In the days and months after their patients pass away, the Jewish Home's Skirball Hospice remains in the lives of their patients' families and loved ones. They offer bereavement support in the form of one-on-one counseling, personal letters and phone calls. Since 2014, Skirball Hospice has hosted a memorial service to honor the memory of the patients in their care who have passed away throughout the year. "Families and loved ones can often feel alone because they think no one else is feeling what they're feeling," says Ashley Teal, executive director of Skirball Hospice. "The memorial service provides people with an opportunity to sit and grieve together—to be with people who understand that their worlds have changed and reflect on that." This year's service was held in March at the Skirball Cultural Center. Bereavement Coordinator Alice Lynn, who organized the service, introduced the program: "Today, we gather as a community comprised of families, friends and Hospice team members. Today we celebrate those who have passed. We remember the love, laughter and priceless memories you may have shared." During the program, Skirball staff and volunteers lit candles, performed music and shared readings. A moving ritual of building a matzevah, or altar of stones, to represent the individuals being remembered was also part of the program. As each patient's name was read, a stone was placed in their memory. Family members and loved ones were then encouraged to share their stories and memories. For Mitzi Schwarz, the memorial service was especially poignant. Schwarz is one of Skirball Hospice's spiritual counselors. She works with patients and their families "bearing witness," she says, to what they are going through during the end-of-life stage. In this capacity, Schwarz had attended and performed at three Skirball memorial services. However this year, she was grieving her own father, who had been a Skirball patient. "It was a blessing for me," Schwarz says of her father's time as a Skirball patient. "To be supported by the Skirball Hospice team felt like I was being supported by my family. No one was a stranger." At the memorial, Schwarz says she felt comforted by being in the presence of her fellow mourners. "I was able to just let my emotions flow," she recalls. "Being with other families whom I had helped throughout the year deepened the experience." For more information on the Skirball Hospice program, please call 818-774-3040 or visit skirballhospice.org.

"We have never seen anything like this, and I'm worried, I am very concerned and worried about our residents and their families," states Dr. Noah Marco in a recent interview with Spectrum News. As the concerns about the Coronavirus and its subsequent illness named COVID-19 continue to surface, news agencies have been reaching out to Dr. Marco and the Los Angeles Jewish Home to learn more about the important procedures the Home has taken to protect its patients and residents. Catalina Villegas of Spectrum News visited the Home and filmed this interview with Dr. Marco, highlighting the steps the Home has implemented. Here are just a few featured in the piece: Daily meetings with the leadership team, laying out plans and discussing everything from procedures with vendors to testing.Cancelling resident interaction with the communityIncreasing safety guidelines and protocols.Boosting communication with families, and visitors through voicemails, their website and fliersVisitors, staff, and vendors are being asked to go through a screening process before entering the facility, detailing their recent medical history, including travel and symptomsThey're also taking temperatures and ensuring everyone is screened To watch the interview or read a transcript, visit the Spectrum News site at https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/health/2020/03/12/socal-nursing-homes-increasing-safety-efforts-amid-coronavirus-concerns#. Spectrum is providing free access to its content on the Coronavirus for thirty days.

Dear Family and Friends, Following the recent developments of COVID‐19 in the U.S., particularly in senior living communities, we are reaching out to inform you of how we are handling this situation at the Los Angeles Jewish Home. As of today, there are no known or suspected cases of COVID‐19 among residents, patients, staff, volunteers or visitors in any of our programs. However, we are taking extra precautions to keep each of our communities as safe as possible during such a critical time. Our policy for visitation is in compliance with guidance from the Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Their advice to limit the transmission of COVID‐19 includes the following measures which have been put into place effective immediately: At the following locations: Grancell Campus Village; Eisenberg Campus Village; Fountainview at Eisenberg Village; and Fountainview at Gonda Healthy Aging Westside Campus, we are limiting all visitors to our communities until further notice. We ask that all family and friends refrain from visiting until further notice. The only exception is if a resident is “actively dying” when known by us. An exception may be made if there is any change or significant decline in your loved ones condition. If you require special access for these reasons or others, please contact us.All Jewish Home staff, vendors, and visitors (determined to be essential) are being actively screened daily as they enter the campus. We follow strict procedures to limit possible exposure of this virus to those we serve. We understand it is incredibly important to stay in contact with your loved ones and staff and we are making every effort to minimize the impact of these guidelines. We encourage you to use standard communication methods to maintain contact with your loved ones for the time being. You may choose to contact them via telephone, email, text messaging or Skype. As always, the well-being of our residents, staff and visitors is our top priority and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time. Evaluations from prior viral epidemics that spread like COVID‐19 found that actions taken early in outbreaks can significantly reduce the spread of the virus ‐ waiting until the virus is spreading in the community is often too late. These measures will stay in place until we are advised or feel comfortable to lift them. We are grateful for your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time. As things evolve regarding the COVID‐19 situation, we will communicate proactively and transparently as soon as warranted. Thank you, Molly ForrestCEO and President Noah Marco, M.D.Chief Medical Officer

COVID-19, a strain of the Coronavirus, has recently been in the news. The Los Angeles Jewish Home (LAJH) and all of its programs have no identified threat at this time. Currently, there are only a handful of cases in our city, but that is likely to change. Our leadership team is staying abreast of the situation and monitoring communications from the government programs that advise health care institutions. On March 4, 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced “Actions to Address Spread of Coronavirus.” CMS announced several actions aimed at limiting the spread of the Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Specifically, CMS issued a call to action to health care providers across the country to ensure they are implementing their infection control procedures. The LAJH has answered that call. We are maintaining and supplementing our infection control procedures. Our priority remains the protection from harm of the most vulnerable members of our community. In that regard, we are implementing several actions: We suspended sending our residents out into the community for social activities.We are cancelling group activities of our residents where they interact with people from the outside community.We are asking visitors to minimize coming to see our residents and educating them not to come if they are not well.We have assessed our inventory of protective equipment (gowns, gloves, masks) and determined we currently have an adequate supply (but we ordered more).We will screen all new admissions if they have any of the known risk factors to transmit this virus.We have been educating and training our staff on how to follow the published guidelines on how to minimize spreading of this illness.Additional cleaning of our environment will occur using products that we have been told kill this virus.We will minimize our staff gathering in one room for routine discussions and use other forms of communication when appropriate.We will continue to stay in direct communication with state and local public health agencies.We will begin a process to screen visitors if they have any of the known risk factors to transmit this virus (as instructed by CMS). The CDC has made recommendations on how to prevent the spread of the virus. Like the flu, thorough handwashing is the best technique to prevent the virus. Below are other recommendations: Stay Home. Do not leave your residence if you feel ill. Call your doctor to report your illness. Refrain from going into public places.Separate yourself from other people in your home. If you live with others, it’s best to separate yourself to another room, and if possible to use a separate bathroom.Cover coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, and dispose of it into a trash can. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow. Wash your hands after.Avoid sharing household items. Avoid sharing drinking glasses, dishware, and towels. These items should be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water after use.Keep your hands clean. Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, with friction. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Good hand washing is the best way to prevent the spread. Please help keep our residents safe. Please do not come onto our campus for routine visits. If you feel ill or have come in contact with someone who is suspected of having COVID-19, DO NOT VISIT. It is unlikely that we will be able to provide a visitor screening process 24 hours per day. Therefore, visiting hours will be restricted to the times when we have clinicians available. You will not be allowed to enter our facilities if it is determined you pose a risk to those we serve. It is our commitment to you to inform you of any changes of our plans or instructions we get from public health agencies. Thank you for your partnership. Noah Marco, M.D.Chief Medical OfficerLos Angeles Jewish Home

The Jewish Home's Levy-Kime Geriatric Community Clinic recently received a makeover, including upgraded equipment and amenities. Located on the Eisenberg Village campus, the clinic provides residents with primary and specialty medical care. "The medical care we provide is convenient, easily accessible and essential to the well-being of our residents," says Stephen Martinez, Ph.D., executive director of the Levy-Kime Geriatric Community Clinic and the Los Angeles Jewish Home's Independent Practice Association (IPA). Martinez oversaw the renovation of the clinic, which is open weekdays. "These renovations are the result of our striving for the highest level of wellness for our residents," he says. "We upgraded to maximize our space and modernized the look of the entire clinic. We went through each room and identified what was needed, whether it was new equipment, lighting or a coat of paint." In addition, new works of art now adorn the walls of the Clinic, thanks to the efforts of Nancy Katz and Nancy Meshulam, co-chairs of the Jewish Home's Art Committee. For Dr. Noah Marco, the Home's chief medical officer, the upgrades are a source of pride. "I am so honored to join my clinician colleagues to work in such a healing environment," he says. Dr. Marco notes that he is particularly proud of the new space for counseling and psychotherapy. Formerly a doctor's office, the room, he says "feels like a living room. It is a relaxing and healing space and has a different feel than most outpatient clinics." Martinez adds that he's witnessed how the aesthetic improvements have had a psycho-social benefit for the residents. "Just improving the appearance of the clinic improves the overall satisfaction of our residents and increases their feelings of comfort and community," Martinez says. Resident Leslie Scales, who recently visited the clinic for a podiatrist appointment, definitely approves of the clinic's refreshed look. "It's lovely," she says. "I especially love the new artwork!" Above all, however, Scales praises the care she receives at the clinic. "The nurses couldn't be any better. They are so accommodating," she says. "I'm pleased with all of my doctors here and with the care I get." And that's the payoff Martinez seeks. "It's so satisfying to see the residents go into the clinic and emerge feeling grateful," he says.

What's the perfect way to brighten a friend or loved one's day and help the Jewish Home at the same time? A Jewish Home Tribute Card! With a donation to the Home, you can select from a wide array of themes and personalize a message either online, via phone or mail. Themes include: "Mazel Tov," "Happy Birthday," "Thank You," or "Get Well." You can also select to honor someone's achievement or memory. Donations are used to improve and enrich the lives of the seniors in our care. In addition, you can select to direct the funds through one of the Home's Support Groups, which are dedicated to enhancing our residents' quality of life. Directing funds through a support group is especially meaningful if the person you are honoring or celebrating is a member. Tribute cards are promptly mailed and indicate a donation was made to the Jewish Home. To order a tribute card, use this link. You can also call our offices to request a Tribute Card: 818.774.3338, or complete and fax this downloadable form to 818.342.0881.

If you're heading into your older years, you might be considering retirement. While leaving your work role may feel like you are embarking on a permanent vacation, some people find it a tough transition. It all depends on your mindset. Researchers have found retirees are happiest when they plan how to spend their time and make the most of it. Here are some tips for transitioning from a fulfilling work life to a fulfilling life in retirement. Stay Social Leaving the workplace doesn't have to mean leaving your social network behind. Indeed, research shows that maintaining strong social networks seems to be linked to slower cognitive decline. So, maintain those workplace friendships, while also enjoying regular lunches or game nights with your "civilian" friends. Intergenerational relationships are also essential to healthy retirement years. Take some time to get to know your grandkids, nieces and nephews, or the children of family friends. According to Harvard Psychiatrist George Vaillant, "generativity" means investing in, caring for, and developing the next generation. Bonus: Older adults who did so were three times as likely to be happy as those who did not. Are you more of a homebody? Adopt a pet. Research shows that caring for a pet brings many health benefits, including a sense of purpose, happiness and security. Expand Your Mind Studies have shown that lifelong learning can be associated with better memory and cognitive skills, improved mood and better well-being. See if your local university or community college offers learning opportunities. Now's the chance to audit an anthropology course, or delve into oceanography or bioethics. Senior Centers also offer courses in current events and even languages. Being retired can also mean time to unleash the right-brain and release your creative power. You could explore painting, ceramics or even gardening, which are all beneficial to your emotional well-being, Another way to expand your vistas is to travel. Travel leads to meeting new people, learning about different cultures and facing fresh challenges. Maintain Good Fitness Whether it's scheduling more rounds of golf, tennis matches or walks with friends, it's crucial to your healthy retirement years to find physical activities that you enjoy and to make them a regular part of your week. Here are more details about how to stay fit. In addition to exercising, eating healthy is also key. As you head into your late 60s, your body changes, as do your nutritional needs. Consult these resources from the University of Wisconsin-Madison for some ideas on developing healthy eating habits. In addition, maintaining long-term good health means visiting your doctor for regular checkups and screenings, including hearing and vision. Achieve That Helper's High. With less time focused on building and sustaining your career, now could be the time to give back. Depending on your goals—meeting new people, or beautifying your local park—there are plenty of options to choose from. If you are the type who likes to stay busy, consider helping your alma mater or your favorite nonprofit by actively serving on their board. Doing good deeds provides a "helper's high," which can help you live a longer and healthier life. And, a longer and healthier life means more time to enjoy your retirement years!

In 1963, President Lyndon Johnson declared February to be American Heart Month. The action marked a pivotal point in the nation's approach to addressing cardiovascular disease. Since then, the number of deaths due to heart disease have declined in the U.S., thanks to advances in research, treatment and public education. Yet, while many advances have been made, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the U.S. and worldwide. The good news is that the risk factors for heart disease can be modified with changes in lifestyle habits. Dr. Noah Marco, the Jewish Home's Chief Medical Officer, says the first step is to "add more steps" to your daily routine. He continues: At the Jewish Home, our residents are not just encouraged to walk around our beautiful campus, but to also join a variety of classes and group activities. These not only strengthen their hearts; they build their connections to our staff and other residents. Dr. Marco says the second step is to eat natural whole foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. "Here at the Jewish Home, our amazing dieticians and kitchen staff prepare meals that are not just healthy and delicious, they are also kosher!" Gender Differences Over the years, there has been an increasing awareness of how the disease affects not only men, but women. The risk factors—e.g., smoking, high cholesterol and blood pressure—remain the same between the genders. However, the differences in how men and women experience a heart attack can differ. According to the American Heart Association, women's heart attack symptoms can be more subtle, such as shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue. Because these symptoms can be linked to acid reflux or the flu, many women may dismiss them without realizing that they are actually experiencing a heart attack. Heart-Mind Connection Physicians are also paying more attention to takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as "broken heart syndrome," as more than 90% of reported cases are in women ages 58 to 75. According to Harvard Women's Health Watch, research suggests that up to 5% of women who thought they experienced a heart attack, actually have this disorder. The syndrome is often brought on by stressful situations and extreme emotions. Symptoms can often feel similar to those of a heart attack. These can include: chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, nausea and vomiting. But with the syndrome, there is no evidence of coronary artery obstruction. Instead, the left ventricle of the heart changes shape and increases in size. This weakens the heart muscle and means it doesn't pump blood well. "Achieving optimal emotional health is a key step to building a healthy heart," says Dr. Marco. "Here at the Home, we've been focused on the emotional health of our residents for a long time. Shortly after someone moves in, we hear how happier and less stressed they are." Learn more about living a heart-healthy lifestyle.

All those eligible have received first dose Two thousand twenty-one is here, and with the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine at the Los Angeles Jewish Home, hopes are high that this will be an especially happy—and healthy—New Year. Within weeks after the arrival of the first vaccine shipment, all eligible Jewish Home residents who elected to do so have already received the first dose, says Noah Marco, MD, the Home's chief medical officer. Staff within the government tier groups have also received the vaccine in large numbers. "It's a significant achievement because immunizing residents and staff is helping to protect all those in our care," Dr. Marco says. "For that reason, I have been encouraging every member of the Jewish Home community to follow a simple mantra: 'Don't hesitate; vaccinate!'" Among the groups who have received the initial dose are residents and staff directly involved in care or service within the Home's skilled nursing facilities including the Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center, the Mark Taper Skilled Nursing Building, the Max Factor Family Foundation Nursing Building, and the Goldenberg•Ziman Special Care Center. Residents and staff of Fountainview at Gonda, Fountainview at Eisenberg Village, and the Newman and Weinberg buildings have also been inoculated, as have staff at the Home's Brandman Centers for Senior Care and Skirball Hospice and Palliative Care. To date, the vaccine has reached more than 1,900 people across Jewish Home campuses, notes Jewish Home President and CEO Dale Surowitz. "We are doing everything in our power to expedite this process and to make sure it runs safely, smoothly, and efficiently," he says. "Working around the clock, we have developed an aggressive schedule for administering the vaccine, while of course following all government and public health mandates." Implementing vaccine distribution in such a timely manner has been possible thanks to the Jewish Home's deep bench of talented and dedicated staff. In addition to Dr. Marco, the Home has a team of nurse practitioners and other nursing staff administering the shots. Helping to secure the arrival of the vaccine is Compliance Officer Timothy Carlson, who is in constant contact with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) and others to coordinate the next shipment of the vaccines to the Home. Offering the vaccine on-site has enabled the Jewish Home to streamline the process, allowing residents and staff to sign up easily and without any roadblocks. This has helped maximize the number of people receiving the vaccine and has given the Jewish Home a critical head start on reaching everyone who relies on its programs and services. As the largest single-source provider of comprehensive senior healthcare services in Los Angeles, the Home serves nearly 4,000 seniors each year. The Jewish Home's efforts have received positive media coverage, including major outlets such as CNN.com, California Healthline/Kaiser Health News, and KNX 1070 news radio. Their coverage shows that, while other institutions have struggled with vaccine coordination, the Jewish Home continues to make important headway. "We are focused on providing protection to every member of the entire Jewish Home family," Dale says, "and our steady progress shows we're well on the way to reaching that goal."