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April 2, 2024
Dear Residents and Families,
With daylight savings time upon us, we gained an extra hour of sunlight, and with it, longer days and warmer weather. This is a great incentive for all of us to go outside more often. Please enjoy all our beautiful outdoor spaces such as our patios, gardens, and porches that are designated for residents, staff, families and visitors. The change of seasons, especially from winter to spring, is a key advantage of living in New England!
It’s been busy few months on Chelsea Jewish Lifecare campuses. Residents and staff enjoyed our Purim celebrations across our campuses, featuring fun activities, creative costumes, and lively music.
We are in the midst of preparing for Passover and while many Jewish holidays are full of intricate and rich traditions, Passover seems to have the most details. Plans for two festive Seders are underway, which includes preparing specialty menu items, changing the dishes to the sets only used during Passover, and deep cleaning all of our kitchens.
For the second year in a row, Harriet and Ralph Kaplan Estates will hold a communal Seder in conjunction with members of the Congregation of Peabody’s Sons of Israel. It promises to be a very special celebration. Be on the lookout for specific details very soon.
Hoping you had a very Happy Easter and warmest wishes for a joyful Passover!
All the best,
Megin
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April 1, 2024
Seniors inevitably face a major decision about where to live as they grow older. While staying in one’s home may seem like the best choice, many individuals need support services, socialization, access to medical care and worry-free maintenance. Ideally, a community that allows seniors to stay in the same community throughout their aging journey is an optimal option.
At Chelsea Jewish Lifecare (CJL), residents can choose from a variety of living options all within one campus. Upon moving into an assisted living apartment, you immediately have access to a “continuum of care” that includes short-term rehab, skilled nursing care, memory care living in both assisted living and skilled nursing environments, adult day health, visiting nurse services (VNA), palliative care and hospice care. For some residents, assisted living will be their “forever” home, while others will need more support services.
“On each of our campuses, we offer a continuum of care that provides a range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual,” explained Amy Sanders, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for Chelsea Jewish Lifecare and Legacy Lifecare. “We strive to make sure that our residents have access to the things that are important to them throughout their aging journey.”
A key advantage of living on a CJL campus is ease of entrance. Many retirement communities require a ‘buy-in” or large entrance fee before an individual or couple can move into the residences. At CJL, there is no such fee. After moving into an assisted living apartment, which requires no buy-in or community fees, residents have access to the continuum of care available throughout the campus.
Aging in place in an assisted living community means that as the resident’s care needs increase as they get older, they can remain in their residence and, if needed, utilize the services available throughout the organization. In essence, a continuum of care campus is convenient, fosters socialization and allows residents to age in place for as long as possible.
Knowing that you or a family member resides in a comfortable, active, and wellness-oriented environment is reassuring. Adult children are able to relax because they understand that if a need suddenly arises in the middle of the night, someone is there who can help. That is a huge relief for families.
Safety, health, quality of life and engagement are priorities on all the CJL campuses. “Families enjoy peace of mind knowing a loved one is safe and well-cared for,” stated Sanders.“From the moment new residents walk through the door, they quickly become a valued member of the Chelsea Jewish family.” Added Amy, ”They feel very much at home.”
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April 1, 2024
As the seasons change and the days unfold, our residents at the Harriett and Ralph Kaplan Estates and the Susan and Jeffrey Brudnick Center for Living continue to thrive. Take a look at the heartwarming activities that have brought joy, creativity, and connection to our residents.
In February, we delved into our artistic side as our budding artists gathered for an enjoyable “Paint and Sip” afternoon, where we painted serene “winterscapes.” The strokes of our brushes captured the magic of snowy landscapes, and laughter filled the room as we shared our creations. What a talented group we have!
In celebration of Sweetheart’s Day, our residents put together beautiful door décor. Hearts adorned with ribbons, flowers, and love-filled messages graced our hallways, welcoming all who passed by. Our resident “gallery” showcases smiling faces and shared moments. It’s heartwarming to see our residents reminiscing and celebrating each other in such a positive light.
Over 30 residents attend an engaging presentation about Australia. We explored its vibrant culture, unique geography, and fascinating wildlife. Aussie slang added a playful twist to our learning experience! Afterward, we indulged in traditional Australian desserts—a delicious “lamington” as well as a bread spread with Vegemite.
Our Tu B’Shevat celebration was fun and festive for all. For the holiday, which is often described as a “Jewish New Year for trees,” residents attended a presentation about the seven fruits and grains. Also under the realm of nature was an art activity with dried leaves and flowers.
Pizza Making with Tony DiCicco was one of the most popular activities of the winter. Residents and staff gathered in our communal kitchen for a lively pizza-making session. Each resident crafted their own pizza from scratch, and the aroma of freshly baked pies filled the air. Tony DiCicco, a former pizzeria owner from Peabody, shared his expertise, expertly flipping crusts with his son by his side. It’s a special form of art!
On a recent lunch trip to Red’s, it was easy to see why the restaurant is so popular. The hamburger was nearly as big as the plate! Good food, great company, and shared stories made the outing memorable and fun.
The much anticipated Purim Parade was definitely a highlight of the season. Sarff and residents from BCL and Kaplan gathered together in the Great Room for the costume parade, refreshments and dancing. It was great to have everyone all together! This year Betty Gordon, who was dressed as Queen Esther, made the front page of the Boston Globe Metro section, along with parade leader Lee Merrill. Lee dressed in a very creative Barbie costume. It was a wonderful day!
At Harriett and Ralph Kaplan Estates and the Susan and Jeffrey Brudnick Center for Living, our residents continue to inspire us with their creativity, resilience, and zest for life. As we embrace each day together, we look forward to more shared experiences and cherished memories.
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March 25, 2024
The recent Purim Parade in Peabody made the front page! The Boston Globe came to the Peabody campus to photograph the Purim parade and the photos ran on the front page in Saturday’s Metro section. The joint celebration between Jeffrey and Susan Brudnick Center for Living and Harriett and Ralph Kaplan Estates featured very creative costumes by both residents and staff. Amidst music, food, noisemakers and dancing, residents voted on their favorite outfits. Purim really is one of the most joyous Jewish holidays!
Click here to view and zoom in on the article.
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March 20, 2024
The Leonard Florence Center recently welcomed Natasha Chadwick, Founder and CEO of NewDirection Care in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Natasha spent time touring the revolutionary residence, widely known for its revolutionary technology and high-quality care. She also had the opportunity to speak with residents and staff members. NewDirection is a residential community for the elderly and for those living with younger onset dementia and complex-care needs.
As the country’s first urban model Green House® skilled nursing facility, the Leonard Florence Center for Living in Chelsea provides a level of independence not typically found in skilled nursing facilities. Home to individuals living with ALS, MS and on ventilators as well as residents who require long-term skilled nursing and short term rehab care, the Center is operated by nonprofit Chelsea Jewish Lifecare and affiliated with Legacy Lifecare.
Photo:
Pictured left to right: Ina Hoffman, Special Residences Director, Leonard Florence Center for Living; Betsy Mullen, Chief Operating Officer for Legacy Lifecare; Michael Scott, Leonard Florence Center resident and Natasha Chadwick, Founder and CEO of NewDirection Care.
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March 11, 2024
This is not your mother’s kosher food. These days the menus at the assisted living and skilled nursing residences on Chelsea Jewish Lifecare’s Peabody and Chelsea campuses feature updated recipes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. But the classics are still very much in evidence: matzo ball soup, roast chicken and homemade rugelach make frequent appearances on the menu.
According to Michael Millard, Director of Food Service, Chelsea Jewish Lifecare has always stayed true to its Jewish roots. “We are committed to keeping the food Glatt kosher and upholding the Jewish traditions that are the very essence of the organization’s culture,” said Millard.
Millard has been at CJL for over 10 years, becoming well-versed in koshering while working at Catering by Andrew. “The art of cooking as an entertainment avenue has sharpened the creative juices for those of us who prepare food professionally,” explained Millard. “The kosher landscape has really expanded and brightened. It’s so much more than bagels, brisket, and knishes.” Added Millard, “People are often surprised that kosher food is so delicious!”
Today the appeal of kosher food extends to all nationalities. “Kosher food has developed into a modern cuisine,” explained Millard. “Strictly speaking, our food experience isn’t unlike non-kosher food. Hence, we replicate most dishes whether kosher in nature or not.” Michael has seen the popularity of Middle Eastern and Israeli foods increase significantly, resulting in new flavors and recipes. Hummus, kebabs and bean salads are now served regularly.”
Over the years, Chef Millard’s repertoire has grown considerably. He changes the menu constantly based on the residents’ feedback and requests. “Residents ask for a wide range of dishes and I try hard try to fulfill every request,” said Michael. He noted that he makes a wide variety of new items but always keeps “tried and true” favorites on the menu. “My most requested dishes are meat (no cheese) lasagna, sweet and sour meatballs and, not surprisingly, traditional matzo ball soup. In truth, I make a great chicken soup,” he said with a smile.
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February 21, 2024
The Leonard Florence Center for Living was recently featured in a segment on the Channel 5/WCVB-TV 6pm news broadcast. On-air reporter Maria Stephanos visited Chelsea to see, first hand, how the Center is changing lives.
Take a look at her interview with Chelsea Jewish Lifecare CEO Barry Berman and residents Steve Saling and Michael Scott. It’s easy to see why Maria called the LFCL a true center for living. As she points out, the word “living” means everything to the residents who call it home.”
Click here to read the story on WCVB.com.
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February 15, 2024
Cheryl Darisse thought she wanted be a nurse until, that is, she started leading activities at Legacy. From that moment on, Cheryl knew she was in the right job. For over 20 years Cheryl has been instrumental in spearheading such activities as exercise classes, word games, sporting games, monthly birthday parties, gardening, arts and crafts, and ice cream socials, among others. She even drives the bus to restaurant outings, singing all the way!
Growing up in Wellfleet on Cape Cod, Cheryl always loved being by the water. When she married her husband Norm, they moved to Salem, where they have lived for the last 45 years. With four children and six grandchildren, vacations are a priority. The family visits Aruba every year, takes frequent cruises, enjoys visiting the Caribbean islands, goes “glamping” and visits Disney with the grandchildren. Combined with Cheryl’s work at Legacy, she lives a full and happy life.
A typical day for Cheryl starts at 7am when she serves the residents a nourishing, hot breakfast. “They tell me every morning what they would like and I fulfill all requests,” explained Cheryl. “Then it’s time for some lively and fun conversations” Cheryl remarked how refreshing it is to be around the Legacy residents. “I love working in memory care because the residents really say what they feel. Said Cheryl with a laugh, “My friends are very honest.”
Over the years Cheryl, a certified CNA, has attended numerous classes and training programs. This enables her to engage residents in new ways with innovative and creative activities. Cheryl designs all of Legacy activities and outings for Legacy 2 and 3. Her favorite activity: Getting to know each and every resident. “I love listening to them and hearing their stories. In fact, I learn quite a lot.”
“Cheryl is passionate about helping our residents engage in meaningful and stimulating activities,” stated Andrea Hillel, Executive Director of Kaplan Estates. “She brings tremendous energy and creativity to her role as activities coordinator on our memory care units. “Most importantly, Cheryl develops strong connections with our residents and their families with her warmth and compassion.”
On her part, Cheryl credits the residents and their families for making her job so enjoyable. “I have had some wonderful heartwarming experiences and am fortunate to have met so many lovely friends and families.” She noted that for her it is a labor of love. “We laugh a lot, sometimes cry together, and often talk for hours,” said Cheryl. “When their faces light up or when they smile or laugh, it means everything. Added Cheryl, “Truthfully, I never feel like I am going to work. I feel so blessed.”
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