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November 16, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
As we embark upon the Thanksgiving holiday, I would like to express deep gratitude to our residents, our staff, and our families for their understanding during these incredibly trying times.
First, I want to thank our amazing residents for maintaining such a positive attitude despite the many restrictions over these past two years. The challenges have been many and we are so grateful for your trust in us during this time. Secondly, to our dedicated staff, the tremendous strength and commitment you demonstrate every day in an effort to keep our residents safe and healthy is an inspirational, priceless gift to us all. I am so proud of everyone. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank our families for your understanding and collaborative spirit throughout the pandemic. Your continued support means everything.
Indeed like so many of you, I am grateful for my family, this wonderful organization and staff, and the continued hope that there are better days ahead for all of us. Together, we will ensure the best is yet to come.
Warmly,
Adam
Adam Berman
President & CEO
Chelsea Jewish Lifecare
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November 16, 2021
Throughout the pandemic our staff has displayed tremendous dedication, perseverance, and fortitude. Clearly, they have worked extremely hard, day in and day out, throughout the pandemic. As a way of expressing gratitude, the organization is incorporating “Wellness Days” into the employee benefits package.
“The past two years have been difficult for all of us and it is with relief that things are slowly returning to a new semblance of normal,” states Betsy Mullen, COO of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. “In recognition of the tireless efforts of our employees, we have created “Wellness Days.” We want to help our employees take care of themselves and focus on their well-being.”
Wellness Days are just one part of the overall “well-being” approach that plays an integral role in the organization. Employees will be given days off and other perks to help them focus upon their physical and emotional health. Mullen notes that it is vital the staff feels their absolute best. “We truly value our loyal staff,” said Betsy Mullen. “Taking good care of our employees ensures our residents will continue to receive the high quality care that has become a trademark of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare.”
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November 12, 2021
This month has been a special time at Katzman Center for Living. Along with the usual planning of our daily programming, we strive to build a connection into our residents. To that end, residents share precious stories, involving aspirations, regrets, proud moments, or basically anything that has affected them in their lives.
For example, resident Marie Diccichio has always had a love for the arts and dreamed of going into art school. But times and money were difficult. Dreams aside, Marie knew she needed to find a stable work position. Thus she became a bookkeeper and sales associate. But talents and interests never go away and Marie recently attended an activity art class at BCL that brought back all the reasons she loved art in first place. Diving in where she left off, Marie has worked on several pieces that she proudly displays in her room. Marie says it best. “Hard to believe that in my 90’s I’ve found my passion again,” exclaimed Marie. “But I love it!”
Charles Paull is another resident who always had a love for music. Often, he would play his harmonica in his room to himself. When Activities Director Roy Roldan asked him if he would be willing to play his harmonica center stage for our residents, he finally agreed. The residents and staff enjoyed his performance immensely and praised Charles for his talent. Charles responded that he would love to play again as the harmonica made him happy. Keep up the wonderful work Marie and Charles. You are both shining stars at the Katzman Center!
On the Specialized Dementia Unit, our residents have been busy creating beautiful art projects for the fall season. Additionally, we discovered that many of our residents had a natural aptitude for playing golf. The game has now been added to our activity schedule. Not surprisingly, it is a very popular event.
In terms of staff news, Jeannette Chianca retired last week after 16 years with Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. Staff and residents honored her with a retirement breakfast, for which she was very touched. Also Jennifer Marchione, our occupational therapist, got married and Noldcie Elien-Val had beautiful boy named AJ. Last, but certainly not least, CNA Christina Arbouet passed her nursing boards and will now be working at KCL as an RN. Congratulations to all of you!
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November 9, 2021
Residents and staff enjoyed restaurant outings, magic shows, and musical performances this month. As evidenced by the many photos, it’s apparent that the activities were quite a hit!
Elaine Jacobson, a CFLE beloved resident, is a talented knitter who is using her skills for the good of the community. Elaine knits adorable teddy bears, rabbits, and mice, all of which are colorful and intricately made. She then donates them to The Knitting Connection, a local nonprofit that distributes goods to children as well as to the Chelsea Fire Department. Elaine, keep up your wonderful work! You have brought so much joy to the children’s lives.
This month, the annual fall foliage ride to Brooksby Village was a huge success. As always, the residents stopped to savor apple cider and donuts. For on-campus activities, the popularity of our book club keeps growing. Word is out that it’s the place to be! In October, we read Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins and residents followed up by watching the movie together. Next up: Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. Undoubtedly, that will be a lively discussion.
The café, always a busy destination, has been serving delicious seasonal treats. In high demand are the quintessential root beer floats as well as homemade milk shakes, complete with a cherry on top. Both are guaranteed to perk up the afternoon hours.
Lastly, as we head into the holiday season, residents and staff are busy making creative decorations for our gathering spaces. They will be a welcome addition during the festive days ahead.
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November 9, 2021
“Deli Day” is back by popular request and residents and staff alike are savoring the delicious sandwiches and accompaniments. The deli was forced to close during the pandemic, but as we gradually return to a normal routine, it is a joy to have the deli open for staff, residents, families, and visitors.
There are many activities planned for the month of November. The list includes a performance by a Hawaiian dancer and ukulele player, restaurant trip to the popular Polcari’s, beloved Scrabble games in the cafe every Wednesday and Friday, and inspiring music by a talented jazz guitarist.
Recently, the LFCL staff participated in an Emergency Evacuation exercise in conjunction with MassMAP. The drill is an annual training to prepare staff for any type of disaster, such as a missing person, gunman in building, natural disasters or any maintenance issues like a pipe bursting or a roof collapsing. These exercises are a useful tool in helping our staff prepare for emergency responses should a crisis or disaster arise. Hopefully, we will not have to deal with any of theses issues, but it is prudent to be prepared for such contingencies.
Hanukkah starts early this year, with the first night celebrated on November 28. In addition to the lighting of the menorah, residents will get together to discuss Hanukkah rituals and what the holiday means to each of them.
Wishing a very Happy Birthday to the following residents:
- Nancy Polcari: November 3
- Patricia Granara: November 8
- Laura Kanter: November 14
- Mary Wood: November 16
- John Litchman: November 17
- David Marion: November 21
- Charlotte Bromberg: November 24
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November 3, 2021
Our organization has been working hard to make sure our residents and staff have access to the COVID-19 booster vaccine, which offers increased protection against all strains of the coronavirus. Essentially, a Covid-19 booster vaccine gives an additional “boost” of protection after the initial protection from the first round of vaccines begins to decline. For already vaccinated individuals, the booster maintains the level of protection. These vaccines go a long way to keeping us all healthy, making the booster a top priority for Chelsea Jewish Lifecare.
Karen Petruccelli RN MSN, Vice President of Clinical Quality and Education at Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, noted that the pandemic has taken a toll on senior living communities across the country. “All of us have been truly affected by this contagious destructive virus,” said Petruccelli. “Since early 2020, we have endured illness, loss of life, isolation from loved ones and disruption from our familiar routines. The advent of a vaccine, however, has brought a strong measure of hope.”
“It is vital that we continue to take measures to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community as a whole,” explained Petruccelli. “The extra protection that a booster provides is central to limiting the spread of infection, and with it, a return to our daily routines.”
With the colder weather upon us, we are forced to be indoors more frequently. Consequently, the potential for exposure to the Covid-19 virus increases for all of us. A booster assists in protecting individuals against the virus as well as protects the people we come into contact with on a daily basis. In general, people are apt to have milder symptoms after being vaccinated if they do, in fact, contract the virus. The virility of sars-cov-2 continues be a formidable invisible enemy.
Petruccelli summed up the importance of the booster shot. “The fight’s certainly not over, but we now have an additional weapon at our disposal. Every day we come closer to returning to a new normal — one filled with companionship, activities, and good health!
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