Article by Liisa Ogburn.
The Awesomettes use sparkle, social connection to ease aging
“I turn 77 next week, and I’ll be wearing go-go boots and a tiara,” said Sabra Taylor, who was wearing an elegant, diamond-rimmed, blue evening gown.
A curtain rod slid out of Barbara Wishy’s fairy wing and clanged onto Lee Ann Walsh’s brick patio. Wishy, 84, said, “It’s never too late to start.”
I was sitting with Oakwood neighbors aged 54-84 who make up a majorette group called the “Awesomettes.” Jackie Twisdale, the founder, started something when, on a whim one Fourth of July five years ago, she pulled out her childhood baton and brought up the rear of the Oakwood neighborhood Fourth of July parade. She cha-cha-chaed down Bloodworth Street while doing a twirl called “around-the-world.”
To read the entire article, go to: https://www.wral.com/the-awesomettes-use-sparkle-social-connection-to-ease-aging/16950514/
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About the Author:
Liisa Ogburn is at the heart of Aging Advisors NC, bringing a rich blend of personal experience and global perspective to elder care. Raised in North Carolina with deep roots in Finland, Liisa has a unique appreciation for diverse approaches to aging, shaped by her life across different cultures including Finland, Estonia, Germany, England, Japan, and Costa Rica.
Her path into elder care consulting was deeply personal. While juggling her role as a Duke University educator and caring for her father-in-law and three young children, Liisa started sharing her family’s journey through articles for The New York Times and later, over 300 posts for WRAL Raleigh on everything from handling loss to choosing the right elder care options.
A teacher at heart, Liisa thrives on empowering others with knowledge. She offers her expertise in presentations to various groups—from churches to professional firms—and writes extensively, reaching audiences far and wide. Her credentials include certifications in geriatric care and a special certification from Brown University to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, reinforcing her belief that calm minds make sound decisions.
