Message from Adam Berman, President of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare

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

Chelsea Jewish Lifecare Thanks Employees with Wellness Days

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.”

Look What’s Happening at Kaplan Estates!

November 9, 2021

The Kaplan crowd loves the weekly Zumba classes, especially when they are performed to the tune of swing music. There are smiles and laughter all around.

Both Kaplan Estates and Brudnick Center held their very own version of the famed Topsfield Fair. Residents played a variety of games, relishing the chances to win fun prizes. The delicious snacks were also a hit: root beer floats, ice cream treats, and fried dough topped with powdered sugar and/or cinnamon. It was obvious from the animated conversations that the residents were truly enjoying themselves. Residents also reminisced about attending the “real” Topsfield Fair, sharing stories of fair outings with their children and grandchildren.

Clay classes, taught by the talented Mandy, were a highlight of the month. Residents were excited to try a new activity. And who knew you could create a piece of clay art without a kiln, but with tin foil and a bowl instead? The residents molded the clay, left them to dry, and painted them a few weeks later. What amazing works of art! We cannot wait to see what other creative ideas Mandy has in store for our residents.

Our Legacy residents participated in a creative crafts class. The group made colorful jewelry pieces that are beautiful to wear, yet also make perfect holiday gifts. So many talented artists under one roof!

We are in the midst of planning a special celebration for our Kaplan residents who have reached the amazing milestone of turning 100. Currently, we have five residents in our “Century Club,” ranging in age from 100 to 107. In the near future, we will honor Thelma Taylor, Marty Lawson, Kay Morrocco, Leon Ditchek and Rose Regis with a memorable luncheon celebration. Congratulations to all of you!

Look What’s Happening at Brudnick Center for Living!

November 9, 2021

This month, Brudnick Center for Living held its very own version of the Topsfield Fair, aptly renamed the “Brudnick County Fair.” The day was filled with games, food, and raffles. Both our residents and our staff members enjoyed it immensely.

Veterans Day is always a special celebration at BCL. We honored residents who are veterans by distributing patriotic hats and pins. Coming up on our holiday calendar: the Mitzvah Project! This year we are getting a jump on our holiday gifting projects. Since BCL received generous donations of colorful yarns, residents have started making intricate yarn dolls for those in need. The dolls will be donated to Inn Transition, a local shelter for women and children.

To take advantage of the amazing fall flowers, our residents created colorful floral arrangements under the expertise of volunteer Deb Eskanazi. They were truly works of art.

A day at the race is also in the works. We will simulate Suffolk Downs Raceway, with exciting twists and turns. Residents will get to name their horses, cheer them on, and watch as the horses cross the finish line. We can’t wait to see who will be in the Winner’s Circle!

The Booster Vaccine Helps Keep the Virus Away!

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!