Optimum Life Magazine 2009 by Brookdale Senior Living

A B ROOKDALE S E N IOR L IVI NG 速 P U BLICATION

OPTIMUM LIFE Vol. 2, Issue 2

Resident Soars page 1

Good Deeds

Freedom Frolics

BSL University

Jack LaLanne

Senior Class

page 3

page 5

page 7

page 10

page 17

速

Trek through the Arctics December 2009

FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to the second edition of Optimum Life® magazine in 2009!

CONTENTS

In this magazine, we give our residents a platform to tell their stories to inspire and motivate others. This issue features stories that will warm your heart, delight your soul and showcase the power of Optimum Life. Don’t miss the feature story on our residents who have had the opportunity to fulfill their Experience of a Lifetime. As a complement to Experiences of a Lifetime, our Celebrations theme this year has invited residents to Dream. Dare. Discover. We are already looking forward, and we are excited and pleased to announce 2010’s theme of Celebrations, Amazing Places of America! With this theme, residents will have the opportunity to explore places previously untraveled and gain insights from new experiences. All the dimensions of Optimum Life will be fulfilled during this amazing year of exploring Amazing Places of America. As you know from our unwavering commitment to health and wellness, a strong component is celebrating life and having fun every day, which is also one of our cornerstones. As part of this, we are pleased to announce a traveling “Ultimate Chef” program. During these events, residents, family and friends, staff, and those in the greater community will be invited to marvel at the talent and creativity of our Dining Services staff. Not only will the event offer fun and celebration, it will also help to educate others on our dining philosophy and offer resources to help those interested in the culinary arts and healthy living. As a special highlight on the intellectual dimension, Cross Train Your Brain, Optimum Life’s program on brain fitness is featured in this issue. See our commitment to this hot topic, and sharpen your mind by taking the Stroop test (page 23). As part of our commitment to evidence-based information, we have launched an e-newsletter filled with interesting information for our residents, associates, family members, business partners and more. Be sure to sign up on our Web site, www.brookdaleliving.com to receive a copy in your in box. As you can see from this issue, and our 2009 annual report, we are dedicated to telling the stories of our amazing residents. Our mission remains to “enrich the lives of those we serve with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity.” As always, if you have a story to tell, or would like to see an article on a particular topic, please send me an e-mail at sterry@brookdaleliving.com. Here’s to living an Optimum Life!

RESIDENT SOARS

CLARE BRIDGE QUILTERS

FREEDOM FROLICS

BROOKDALE UNIVERSITY

RESIDENT POEM

JACK LALANNE

ENERGY COUNCIL

ENCHANTED EVENING

OPTIMAL AGING: ENHANCE

MEET THE SENIOR CLASS

CROSS TRAIN YOUR BRAIN

DR. O’NEIL

ULTIMATE CHEF

STROOP TEST

Optimum Life® is a publication of Brookdale Senior Living®, Inc. Optimum Life is available free of charge to the residents, associates and friends of Brookdale Senior Living communities. Subjects in feature articles are actual residents or associates of Brookdale communities across the country, or Brookdale home offices in Chicago, Milwaukee and Nashville. Inquiries about content or suggestions for future articles should be directed to the Lifestyle or Life Enrichment associate at any Brookdale Senior Living community. ® Reg. U.S. Pat. and TM Office(Service “Daily Moments of SuccessSM is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA

Resident Soars During Experience of a Lifetime Program Delivers Optimum Life® Opportunities Described as a “sweet, gentle, smiling woman,” no one expected that Jean Pettit’s wish would be to jump from a plane – then actually going through with it. Pettit, an 84-year-old resident of Freedom Plaza Peoria, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Peoria, Ariz., won the fulfillment of her Experience of a Lifetime, to skydive. In her winning essay, Pettit wrote, “This would be further proof that an older person can still dream and do many things.” Pettit jumped from 13,000 feet in a tandem skydive with a skydiving instructor. The two were in freefall for about 53 seconds before pulling the parachute's cord and floating downward for four minutes. “Being up in the clouds was for real,” said Pettit. “This was really living.” Nearly 40 family, friends, residents and staff of 1 / OPTIMUM LIFE - VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 Freedom Plaza cheered her on as they watched her land. “This brought our community together as we celebrated with Jean on her achievement,” said Julia Harvey, a resident of Freedom Plaza. “It was the most exciting thing for me to see a

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resident do since I have been at Freedom Plaza,” said Elsie Coates, also a Freedom Plaza resident. “The event generated interesting side conversations among the residents,” said Lori Krominga, Human Resources Director of Freedom Plaza. “Residents began talking about their own experiences in the military, on various airplane flights, and serving in World War II. The event sparked lots of stories, anecdotes, and reminiscing.” The Experiences of a Lifetime program encourages residents to expand their opportunities of living an Optimum Life by choosing experiences that are directly tied to one or more of the six dimensions of wellness - purposeful, spiritual, emotional, social, intellectual and physical. For Pettit, skydiving, while physical in nature, also encompassed the emotional, purposeful, social, and spiritual dimensions. “This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life so far,” said Pettit. “The only thing to top the

Experience of a Lifetime Staff Member Fulfills Dream During Brookdale Weigh, Too! Experiences of a Lifetime has recently grown to achieve a new milestone, an Experience of a Lifetime for an associate of Brookdale Senior Living. D’Artagnan Lopez, a fitness technician with Innovative Senior CareSM, hit a weight loss goal to qualify for skydiving. Lopez lost 100 pounds through his weight loss journey, which has been ongoing for the last eight months. He participated in a recent companysponsored wellness and weight loss competition, Brookdale Weigh, at Freedom Plaza Peoria, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Peoria, Ariz., which motivated him to shave off the remaining pounds.

BRD OOKS E NAI OL ER skydive would be to take a trip to the moon!” A video of Pettit’s Experience of a Lifetime is available for viewing on the Brookdale® Web site at www.brookdaleliving.com/experiences-of-a-lifetime.aspx. Through Brookdale’s Experiences of a Lifetime program, residents at selected Brookdale Senior Living® communities nationwide were invited to share and submit their wishes. To request an Experience of a Lifetime, residents completed a survey form explaining an experience they would like to have fulfilled, and how that experience relates to one or more dimensions of the Brookdale’s Optimum Life concept. Brookdale then provides a helping hand in

Lopez’s goal and incentive after losing 100 pounds was to make the weight requirement to skydive. Having achieved this goal, Brookdale was pleased to award this dream to him. During his experience, Lopez proudly plunged 13,000 feet from an airplane and was in freefall for 60 seconds. “It was a pure rush,” said Lopez. “This is a day I will remember for a long time.”

Continued on page 24

BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 2

Pictured from left to right: Juanita Bjork, Delores Zierk, and Anita Leonard.

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C L A R E B R I D G E® R E S I D E N T S

Share Warmth with Purpose actively work on a blanket can participate. The residents and staff of Clare Bridge Kenosha, “It is of utmost importance that the culture at an Alzheimer’s and dementia care community in Clare Bridge be one that promotes our promise of Wisconsin, focus on all of the dimensions of Optimum ® ‘Daily Moments of SuccessSM,’” said Steven Lauer, Life while doing a Brookdale Good Deeds program activity. Nearly all residents, regardless of sewing Executive Director of Clare Bridge Kenosha. “The ability, help make warm blankets for children in need, process of making a blanket demonstrates the six while tapping into the social, dimensions of Optimum Life that are spiritual, emotional, intellectual, key to wellness. It also shows our physical, and purposeful dimensions. awareness of and contribution to “In a Clare Bridge community, others in need.” having high group participation is Prayers and blessings continue somewhat challenging since many of throughout the creation of the our residents have very limited blankets. When one is finished, a final abilities,” said Candace Brown, Life blessing is offered before the blanket Enrichment Coordinator at Clare is donated to Project Linus, a national Bridge Kenosha. “At this point in a organization whose mission is to resident’s life, his or her world can provide love, a sense of security, become limited. A resident may also warmth, and comfort to children who feel a disconnect from the greater are in crisis. The children are allowed Florence Jasinski community. Often, I hear ‘What good am I anymore?’ to keep the blanket to take home or wherever their This group directly addresses that need for a sense of journey takes them. purpose. No matter what limitations a resident may “By continuing the good deed and passing it onto now have, he or she can still help others.” someone in need, we hope the prayers and blessings Prompted by a Celebrations theme, the staff uses reach out to others,” said Brown. “All who participate the tradition of a prayer shawl ministry while working and the recipient feel the warm embrace of good on blankets. During a prayer shawl ministry project, intentions.” the makers begin with prayers and blessings for the “Our residents are very motivated to contribute recipient of the blanket. to this cause. They are delighted to help make and “We all pray and wish warmth, safety, comfort, donate items for those in need,” said Brown. “It gives and love on the child it will eventually cover,” said meaning and purpose to them, both individually and as Brown. “The residents spend wonderful hours working a group.” on the blankets. The group thinks about the child who “There is a great sense of joy to see the progress of will receive the piece, reminisce about their own the blanket and pride in the finished project,” said children, and we discuss and share stories about the Brown. “Best of all is the knowledge that they have attachment children form with an article of comfort.” created a useful item that will enrich someone’s life just By using this process, even residents who cannot as the effort has enriched theirs.” BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 4

Freedom Frolics

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“M

aking a fool of yourself for a good cause” is the way resident Emery “Brownie” Brown describes participation in the Freedom Frolics, and he speaks from experience. Brown has played a role in every one of the annual Freedom Plaza Scholarship fundraising productions put on by Freedom Plaza Sun City Center, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Florida. This year’s Freedom Frolics, “Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard,” marks the 18th show. The first Freedom Frolics was structured more like a resident talent show, with a few short skits thrown in for variety. It was presented on April Fools’ Day 1992; hence, Brown’s reference. Within three years its format changed to a themed and scripted production, as its popularity with both participants (called “Frolickers”) and audience members grew. Stage scenery was constructed by the woodworkers, and the costumes were crafted by resident seamstresses. Everything and everyone became more prominent as residents were drawn into

assisting with the project on various levels while working for a common cause, their own Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund. Freedom Frolics is the brainchild of long-time Lifestyles Associate Peggy Burgess, who continues to write and direct the production. She also initiated the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund, a resident-directed organization that has, to date, awarded nearly $400,000 in educational grants to Freedom Plaza associates. Burgess uses her creativity, along with a background in opera, theater, and journalism, to write Frolics scripts tailored to resident abilities. There are no auditions; any resident who wants to be a Frolicker is included. This makes for casts as large as the 36 residents who appeared on stage in the recent production, “Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard.” Another 20 residents worked in auxiliary positions. The premise of this last production was that many fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters are dissatisfied Continued on page 25

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Focus on the

INTELLECTUAL DIMENSION Brookdale ® University adds Lifelong Learning at Holley Court Terrace Brookdale Senior Living® University (BSLU) at Holley Court Terrace, a retirement community in Oak Park, Ill. was the brainchild of residents there. A committee began the University to engage fellow residents and embrace the intellectual dimension of Optimum Life®, as well as to expand their intellectual horizons through educational opportunities by and for residents, students and the greater community. With BSLU, there’s no tuition or diploma, just the reward of learning. In addition to creating learning opportunities for residents, BSLU incorporates the social dimension by enhancing

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resident involvement with the outside community through intergenerational contact, relationships with institutions of higher learning and

community leaders. Purposefully, it creates opportunities for residents to develop skills in public speaking, technology, and community leadership. “Everybody has a story to tell,” said Kathy Mullaghy, Executive Director of Holley Court Terrace. “It is amazing to think of the richness and depth of knowledge, experience, and wisdom inside Holley Court Terrace, or any Brookdale community. BSLU has found a way to harness these stories and share them with others for learning and enjoyment.” “Our initial goal was to have residents share their personal and professional life experiences with other

residents,” said Rose Meyer, BSLU President and resident of Holley Court Terrace. “Then we branched out to residents’ relatives and are now inviting those in the greater community who have also lived interesting and meaningful lives to share them with us.” “We hear from many exciting, talented, and willing volunteer presenters who have learned about our program from residents, staff, and neighbors, and are offering to bring us interesting thoughts and topics for our enjoyment and enlightenment,” said Meyer. BSLU sessions are held the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 1 p.m. The sessions last one hour, including comments and questions. Topics are very diverse, and include information from the presenters’ career(s), a special event, or topic(s) he/she wishes to present to others. Sample session topics include: • The History and Importance of the Sears Roebuck Pre-Cut Homes, presented by Jeanette Fields, resident and architectural enthusiast • What is a Poem?, presented by Andrew Schiller, resident and retired linguistics professor • Meet Yorick: Human Skeleton, presented by Bob Rogers, resident and retired anthropologist • Life’s Transitions, presented by Kay Bracco, resident who was widowed at a young age with ten children • Economics 101, presented by Gladys Foster, resident and retired economics professor “To have residents willing to share their experience and knowledge with others is affirming and generous,” said Mullaghy. “It builds a strong sense of community and purpose.” The resident deans of BSLU, eight residents in all, plan to continue and expand its offerings through the rest of the year and for as long as the BSLU programs are greeted by the large number of residents who attend the sessions.

Pictured from left to right: Hanny Leitson, Gladys Foster Beth Robinson, Rose Meyer Julia Loebel and Katherine Bracco.

Continued on page 25

BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 8

Resident Poem Submitted by Florence Zielinski, resident of The Devonshire of Lisle.

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Words of Wisdom from

“The Godfather of Fitness”

Jack LaLanne, “The Godfather of Fitness,” is the perfect example of marrying both the intellectual and the physical dimensions together for an Optimum Life®. During an interview with LaLanne, he shared his thoughts with Optimum Life magazine and some tips for brain fitness and physical activity. A vivacious and dynamic 94-year-old, LaLanne’s mission is “to help people help themselves to feel better, look better, and live longer.” As a pioneer of many achievements in the world of health, fitness, exercise, and nutrition, helping people has always been his key motivation. “You only have one life, and you have to work at it,” said LaLanne. “Your health account is like your bank account; the more you put in, the more you can take out.” Continued on page 25

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT:

BROOKDALE’S ENERGY COUNCIL Brookdale Senior Living® is committed to providing the opportunity of living an Optimum Life® to its residents and associates. Activities and programs are most thought of when referring to and pursuing an Optimum Life in a Brookdale® community, but the environment plays a role as well. Many behind-the-scenes actions occur to ensure residents have an environment for engaging in an Optimum Life, however, are rarely discussed. One such initiative, Brookdale Senior Living Energy Council, was quietly formed to provide governance to energy demand reductions across Brookdale Senior Living communities. The Energy Council consists of a hand-picked team of Brookdale executives representing clinical, interior design, engineering, financial, procurement, operations, and Optimum Life, that will investigate and prioritize opportunities of energy demand reduction and monitor results and progress. The goal of the team is ultimately to be responsible for the company’s energy usage both for this and future generations by tracking, reviewing, and reducing energy usage wherever possible. “Together, we can all make a significant difference,” said Sara Terry, Vice President of Optimum Life for Brookdale. "The Energy Council helps residents and associates participate in a purposeful, social and intellectual project." One of the first projects is to change to more energy efficient lighting. To date, audits have been performed on more than half of Brookdale communities.

“The Asset Management and Operations staff in the field have done an impressive and incredible job,” said Dave Hammonds, Senior Vice President of Asset Management for Brookdale. “They have completed this lighting initiative in more than 260 communities, and are changing or changed more than 130,000 lamps. We applaud their hard work and dedication.” In these communities, Brookdale has increased the lighting while reducing the energy output. Annual savings from these audits and subsequent changes are significant. The Energy Council allows: • The ability to show families our commitment to manage their funds responsibly. • New opportunities of optimizing light levels within communities. • The ability to gain creative ideas from all sources, including both those in and outside a community. Communities have hung posters describing the initiative and the reasons behind it. The poster states, “At Brookdale Senior Living, we understand how important our Earth’s health is to all of us: residents, associates, and families.” “Families and residents have responded favorably to this initiative,” said Hammonds. “It shows we are a responsible corporate

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E A R T H

D E S E R V E S

citizen, and there is a personal commitment from Brookdale to manage green opportunities.” In addition to the response of the specific initiative, residents are supportive of Brookdale taking steps to conserve the environment. Freedom Village Bradenton, a continuing care retirement community in Florida, formed a Green Committee comprised of residents and representatives of management to help save energy and the environment. “Among all the accomplishments of this committee was installing water-flow restrictors in all residences to reduce water consumption, introducing low energy light bulbs, which were also available at cost for residents’ use to reduce energy consumption, using recycled mulch in landscaping, and using salt in the pool, rather than chlorine,” said David Cole, President of Freedom Village Brandenton’s Resident Council, and member of the Green Committee. “These and other steps taken at Freedom Village Bradenton showcase our commitment to advancing Brookdale Senior Living’s pursuit of an Optimum Life for residents and associates.” Before any alterations are made, extensive research is done, including industry standards, psychology and physiology behind lighting levels, building and company standards and more. “We are not making changes just

A N

O P T I M U M

L I F E ,

for the sake of change,” said Hammonds. “Everything we do is research-based, and design is a critical factor as well. Residents and associates will reap benefits from the changes made, in both an obvious and a subtle manner.” “In addition, we rely heavily on direct feedback from residents, families, and staff,” said Hammonds. For example, after changing lighting levels at Sterling House Goodlettsville, an assisted living community in Tennessee, a nurse commented that the new lights gave her headaches. The Energy Council listened, researched, and responded. “This initiative is a change in culture. We always need to be thinking of how to be responsible in every aspect of community living,” said Hammonds. “We hope this translates not only to staff, but also empowers residents and family members to start thinking the same way.” The next phase of the Energy Council lighting initiative is to move forward in all remaining communities, which is expected to occur by early 2010.

Save Energy. Save the Planet.

T O O ! BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 12

Residents Treat Visitors to

“Enchanted Evening”

nchanted

” Evening

Carolina House Durham, a Personalized Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s and dementia care community in North Carolina, expressed interest in putting on a show for loved ones. After a spirited discussion, the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical “South Pacific” was chosen as a theme, and the production named: “Some Enchanted Evening.” “I wanted to be a part of the production because I like the musical “South Pacific,” and I like to sing,” said resident and show soloist Ken Young. “It makes you feel good to participate in an effort like this; you feel like a part of the community.” Residents selected musical numbers: “Nothing Like a Dame,” performed as a solo; “Younger than Spring Time” and “Some Enchanted Evening,” both

“ S o me E

th 2009 and dance June 25 m Music Thursday, ing Roo musical merstein’s . in the Din 7:00 p.m ers and Ham ormed by from Rog perf selections duced and . Pro . Durham ific” House of “South Pac Carolina the of residents

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sung by the men’s chorus; and “Bali Hai,” “I’m Going to Wash that Man Right Out of My Hair,” and “Wonderful Guy” sung by the women’s chorus. A dance number to the song “Honey Bun” was planned, and a talented resident agreed to learn and perform “Overture to the South Pacific” on the piano. The community enlisted the help of two of its favorite local entertainers: Sam Marion and Richard Hensley. Marion has been playing piano and singing in the community for 10 years, and agreed to provide piano accompaniment for the singers during the show. Hensley, who danced in the movie “Dirty Dancing” and gets the community moving once a week during a movement class, agreed to choreograph the dance number. In addition to live rehearsals, he made a videotape of the routine, so

cast members could practice throughout the month. Staff members such as Resident Care Associate Tiffany Leathers jumped at the chance to help the chorus rehearse. “I just like to see the residents enjoy themselves,” said Leathers. “I know how happy singing makes them, and it makes me happy to see them smile. I'm willing to do whatever I can to add more joy to someone’s day.” With the content of the program decided, a production crew of staff and residents began working on a backdrop for the show. They choose an image they liked for the invitations, and decided to use it for the background as well. With the help of a local church youth group, two large frames were constructed and covered in fabric to create two giant canvases.

Meanwhile, other staff and residents pitched in by making costumes for the show: sailor caps for the men's chorus, and decorative arm bands for the dance number. Resident Council President Dorothy Odom took a very active role in the production. A lifelong fan of both theatre and literature, she chose a quote from Ulysses by Lord Alfred Tennyson to describe why she participated in this project. “’Come, my friends, ‘tis not too late to seek a newer world…for my purpose holds to sail beyond the sunset and the baths and all the western stars until I die.’” “These words have long served as a mantra for me,” said Odom. “Most people who took part in our Continued on page 26

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Optimal Aging:

ENHANCE Location, Location, Location The three most important considerations in selecting where to live are supposedly “location, location, location.” A new research project will explore whether that proves true for retirement living. Across the United States, 625,000 people have made themselves at home in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), a specific type of senior community, that offers Independent Living, Personalized Assisted Living services, and Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing care in one location at costs that frequently are lower than comparable services offered in separate locations. Visit a successful Continuing Care Retirement Community, and people will share stories about the benefits of living there. Residents talk about individual gains made after moving in; they brag about their fitness and quality of life compared to non-residents. Adult children regret that a parent didn’t move in sooner once they see Mom’s renewed vitality and agility. Residents agree, saying that they wish they’d moved in earlier and they advise others not to delay. CCRC professionals are confident that continuing care residents stay healthy longer, avoid injury, are less isolated and are more financially stable than those living elsewhere. In a recent national survey that included randomlyselected Brookdale Senior Living® residents, 93 percent of senior housing residents reported that they were happy. The same percentage reported that they enjoy life. These numbers were much lower for their counterparts who were still living in their non-CCRC homes. Most Americans can list milestones that caused them to evaluate their life and consciously plan for the future: graduation, marriage, parenthood, divorce, career change, major crisis, retirement, etc. The choices one 15 / OPTIMUM LIFE -

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2

makes at these pivotal times impact many aspects of life quality. Older adults face complex choices during retirement years, including where to live. Americans have strong opinions about the best place to spend retirement, but older adults and their advisors have too few actual facts. How can one predict where a widowed nurse will thrive? Where is the safest affordable home for a retired diabetic machinist and his dachshund? Is loneliness the inevitable result of outliving one’s friends? Retirees and their loved ones often report being overwhelmed and frustrated while trying to make their choice without supporting evidence. Professionals in the senior housing field see minor miracles every day, but they can also feel frustrated by the scarcity of research-supported facts. CCRC resident surveys indicate that professionals have reason to be proud of the opportunities they offer to residents. Survey respondents report that they are healthier than they were before moving to their CCRC, are more likely to see friends and make new friends, and have tried new activities. These factors are incorporated into Brookdale Senior Living programs through the Optimum Life® focus on the six dimensions of wellness: purposeful, spiritual, emotional, social, intellectual and physical. Scientific research has shown that these types of Optimum Life activities improve mental, cognitive, and physical health. The Institute for Optimal Aging’s current research project about CCRCs was first raised when a small

Missouri-based software company, HealthMEDX, offered three of its clients a chance to collectively share suggestions for taking the information their software routinely compiled and using it to provide more efficient service and better associate support. These three clients’ 50,000 associates serve 96,000 residents living in 652 senior living communities located in 38 states. They consulted The Institute for assistance with the next steps. The Institute coordinated with the Department of Aging and Mental Health Disparities of the Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute at the University of South Florida, Tampa (USF) to enlist a team of aging experts. A coalition was formed involving Brookdale Senior Living, The Institute, Erickson Retirement Communities, HealthMEDX, Life Care Services and USF. After several meetings, the coalition outlined a research project named ENHANCE, which uses the expertise and resources of coalition members to explore the perceived benefits of living in a CCRC. The purpose of ENHANCE is to determine whether providing services to older adults in a fully-integrated continuing care environment is more effective than the care provided in separate, individual settings. Theoretically, care within an integrated continuum should be better coordinated, less costly, involve fewer transitions and should result in better decisions based on more accurate information. USF researchers will be working with Brookdale Senior Living residents to answer a variety of questions, including:

• Are older adults able to maintain their independence longer in a CCRC? • Is a CCRC setting more effective for disease management of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease? • Does the CCRC model provide a total cost advantage over separate providers? To whom do Continued on page 27

BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 16

Focus on the

INTELLECTUAL DIMENSION Learning Knows No Age; Meet the “Senior” Class support. Two, six-week semesters each year, in fall and When school bells ring at Freedom Plaza, a spring, are offered with a fee of $10 per course to cover Continuing Care Retirement Community in Sun City teaching materials/expenses. Any overage of funds is Center, Fla., they signal residents to sharpen their donated, at the discretion of the trustees, to various pencils and prepare to sharpen their minds at yet worthy causes. This enterprise has enabled the “Grad another session of Graduate School for Seniors. Now in School” to contribute a total of $8,000 to the Freedom its fifth year, this venture exemplifies the intellectual ® Plaza Scholarship Fund, another resident-directed dimension of Optimum Life , and the emphasis on lifeorganization, this one providing educational grants to long learning. In this educational adventure, all the associates. The Freedom Plaza library has also received students are seniors – literally. a donation of $2,250 to purchase Graduate School for Seniors special reading equipment and supplies. began shortly after Dr. Robert The broad scope of interesting Gingery retired from his post as courses offered by well-qualified pastor of the Sun City Center instructors, the majority of them Community Church and moved to residents with background in Freedom Plaza. Recognized as education, contributes greatly to the founder and administrator of the ongoing success of Graduate School for highly successful and expansive Seniors. These courses have included Community Church College (CCC), such diverse subjects as Separation of he was approached by residents, Church and State, Winemaking, who were also students at CCC, to Beethoven and the Boys, Writing Your initiate an adult education program Dr. Robert Gingery Memoirs, and Basics of the Computer. at Freedom Plaza. Dr. Gingery graciously consented to help. His experienced guidance, along with the motto, “no tests, no grades, no papers, no homework,” led to an immediate and enthusiastic response from residents. Dr. Gingery, who remains a valued advisor, said, “It was my good fortune to help the residents of Freedom Plaza enjoy the benefits of this school, after having founded a similar one at my church 30 years ago.” “Grad School,” its popular name with residents, operates under the auspices of an all-resident Board of Officers and Trustees, with management’s consent and 17 / OPTIMUM LIFE - VOL. 2, ISSUE 2

Two of the most popular courses, both taught by residents, have been German History of the 20th Century by Dr. Reynold Koppel and Exposing the Enemy of the Infidel by Col. (Ret) Luke Lloyd. Koppel, a former professor at University of Washington and Princeton, is a native of Germany who drew on his own experiences under Nazism for his course. Col. Lloyd, who spent much of his military career in the Middle East and holds a Masters Degree in Arab Studies, used his first-hand knowledge in presenting his course. “Life-long learning and engagement is shown Continued on page 27

Pictured standing left to right: John Donnelly - Dean Helen Bredehoft - Home Room Dean Seated: Dr. Robert Gingery - Advisor

BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 18

W E L L N E S S

A W A R E N E S S

C A M P A I G N

OPTIMUM LIFE® LAUNCHES

CROSS TRAIN YOUR BRAIN The brain is the one part of the body that makes everything work. It holds one’s intellect, memory, sensory perception, ability to reason, and more. As with any part of a body, the brain must be exercised to keep working properly. Brookdale Senior Living®, along with the Institute for Optimal Aging, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of older adults, has launched a wellness awareness campaign, Cross Train Your Brain, to highlight proactive measures one can take to enhance brain health. The program details benefits of brain fitness and the many ways to improve cognitive ability, including physical activity. Led by Kevin O’Neil, MD, FACP, CMD, a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics and Medical Director of Optimum Life for Brookdale Senior Living, the program encourages seniors to reap the benefits of brain fitness. Cross Train Your Brain is tailored to older adults with the goal of improving cognitive health and reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. The program also focuses on a holistic lifestyle that emphasizes brain health for an Optimum Life. “The goal of the program is to improve the health and wellness of older adults through brain fitness,” said Dr. O’Neil. “Brain fitness does not depend on just what we think, but what we do. Research has confirmed the benefits of regular physical activity as well as the importance of emotional health and social engagement. For example, activities that give a sense of

purpose and meaning not only help the brain, but may actually help us live longer and with a better quality of life.” Select Brookdale Senior Living communities are now offering the Dakim® BrainFitness™ System, a product designed specifically to help seniors maintain mental acuity through proprietary brain-building activities presented in a game showlike format. The BrainFitness™ System’s interactive puzzles, stories, word scrambles and other activities utilize pre-1950s film clips and other senior-friendly references and played on a touch screen computer appliance that requires no mouse, keyboard or computer knowledge to operate. “We pride ourselves on offering superior lifestyle options and cutting-edge services,” said Sara Terry, Senior Vice President for Optimum Life at Brookdale. “The BrainFitness System makes it simple and easy for our residents to unleash the power of cognitive exercise to enhance their quality of life and well-being.” “This program is an extension of our mission to enrich the lives of those we serve,” added Dr. O’Neil. “We are educating our residents that brain fitness can be improved, and, when pursued, will positively impact the aging process.” In addition to the BrainFitnessTM System, all Brookdale communities offer a variety of opportunities in the area of brain health, from mind aerobic classes to crossword puzzle competitions to purposeful causes and more. Brookdale Senior Living, along with the Institute for Continued on page 27

Top Cross Train Your Brain Recommendations from Dr. O’Neil 1. Follow a Mediterranean-style diet, and include a handful of mixed nuts daily. 2. Stay physically and mentally active. Engage in moderate aerobic exercise for 30 minutes daily, if possible. Keep your mind active by reading, doing crossword puzzles or Sudoku, playing board games or bridge, learning a musical instrument or new language. 3. Try to learn something new every day. 4. Stay socially engaged. 5. Maintain a positive attitude and a good sense of humor. 6. Connect with something that gives you a sense of meaning and purpose . 19 / OPTIMUM LIFE - VOL. 2, ISSUE 2

Cross Train Your Brain Symposiums Emphasize the Power of Community Cross Train Your Brain symposiums nationwide feature local medical professional experts as keynote speakers, as well as Dr. O’Neil. Respected institutions are the venues of the symposium. "It was wonderful partnering with Brookdale Senior Living and Rush Generations in a public forum on nutrition and brain health," said Christy C. Tangney, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Clinical Nutrition at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. "The information was greatly appreciated, and fun, too!" Upcoming Cross Train Your Brain symposiums will be held in the following cities and will feature the following speakers and venues: • Denver, Colo. – Held on the Anschutz Medical Campus, this symposium will feature Dr. Kerry Hildreth, who will be discussing “Banishing the Senior Moment: Memory Loss and the Aging Brain”. • Cleveland, Ohio – This event will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn at Cleveland Downtown & Gateway Conference Center. The featured speaker will be Randolph Schiffer, MD, Medical Director of the new Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.

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Brookdale Seeks to Crown the Ultimate Chef of America An intense competition for the chance of Brookdale Dining Services staff to win the “Ultimate Chef America” title and trophy will be held during the 2010 Ultimate Chef America tour in cities across the United States. During each Ultimate Chef event, two teams of four Dining Services staff members will compete during a twohour cooking competition focusing on healthy cooking for seniors. The first event will be held in Phoenix on January 28, 2010. Dishes prepared at the event will be tasted by a panel of four judges, two of whom will be local celebrities or area food critics, one of whom is a Brookdale resident who has a culinary background, and the other judge is a wild card. Each team can be awarded up to 25 points by each judge for each dish; consisting of up to 15 points for taste, up to 5 points for presentation, and up to 5 points for creativity. The team with the highest score is declared the winner. Joska J.W. Hajdu, Senior Vice President of Dining Services for Brookdale Senior Living, will lead the Ultimate Chef America's teams during the 2010 nationwide competitions. “There is no doubt in my mind that the creativity, ability, and talent of our Dining Services

associates will be showcased during this unique competition,” said Hajdu, who is also an Executive Chef by trade. “Ultimate Chef America will be an intense, prestigious cooking event highlighting all of the dimensions of Optimum Life in action.” Attendees to Ultimate Chef America will be able to join in the event by gaining a close-up look at the competitors and the fast-paced competition. In addition, Brookdale has partnered with several national partners and sponsors to be included in a vendor expo. Attendees will be able to participate in various educational programs, including a seminar featuring Brookdale’s Medical Director, Dr. Kevin O’Neil, on the topic of “Food for the Soul,” a wine tasting class featuring local wines, and a class presented by the Culinary Arts Institute at Brookdale: The Art of Seasoning. The event will also feature a gourmet food tasting where participants will receive a taste sampling of the recipes prepared in the competition. Community tours will also be available, and participants will gain a first-hand view of the variety, styles and sizes of the private apartments and the community areas for socializing, dining and entertaining. Staff will be Continued on page 27

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Take The Stroop Test

to look at each word going across row by row and say aloud the color in which the word is printed, not the word itself. To increase the level of difficulty you can skip around randomly from one word to another. Do this as quickly as you can to help sharpen your brain.

As you look at the chart below you will notice that the words red, white, brown and green appear in one of those four different colors. The object is

red

white

green

red

white

brown

red

white

green brown green green

brown

green

white

brown

green

white

red

brown

white red brown green

brown white red brown red green red white

The Stroop test is used in neuropsychological evaluations to measure mental vitality and flexibility. Performing well requires strong attention and self-regulation capability.

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Resident Soars making some of the dreams of the residents come true. To date, Brookdale has awarded six Experiences of a Lifetime, with one more in the works as of press time. Experiences of a Lifetime fulfilled to date are: • Eve Stovall, a resident of Heritage at Gaines Ranch in Austin. Her wish was to ride down the main highway in Austin in a yellow Corvette convertible. The car was driven by a member of The Longhorn Corvette Club, and Stovall was driven from the community down MoPac Expressway to the State Capitol and back again. She returned to a reception in her honor at the community and was also presented with a Mayoral Proclamation. In addition, The Longhorn Corvette Club made Stovall an honorary member of the Corvette Club. “This day is the happiest day of my life, fulfilling my wish to have one more ride in my dream car, a yellow corvette,” said Stovall. The video of her Experience of a Lifetime is featured on Brookdale’s Web site. • Michele Koetter and Mary Schultz, residents at Grand Court Albuquerque, were given the unique opportunity to ride in a hot air balloon for the first time at the ultimate ballooning destination and event, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico. They were joined by special guest, Dr. Kevin O’Neil, renowned Gerontologist and Medical Director for Brookdale Senior Living. Koetter, 87, said she could hardly believe her luck. Before and during the balloon ride, Koetter couldn’t keep the smile off her face. “This is a fulfillment of a dream,” Koetter said. • Clella Adams, a resident of Bradford Village in Edmond, Okla., fulfilled her deceased

husband’s wish of seeing the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. for her experience. Adams’ husband served the country in the Navy, and saw action in WWII and the Korean War. Her oldest son followed in his father’s footsteps and served as a Lieutenant in the Navy. Adams’ youngest son retired as a Chaplain Colonel in the Air Force. Both sons joined Adams on her trip of a lifetime. “The trip to the WWII Memorial to fulfill my late husband’s dream was the best,” said Adams. “It was a bleak, gray, rainy day…and somehow it seemed appropriate for it to be a somber day. I did feel my husband with me on that tour.” • Alfred Bouey, a resident of Holley Court Terrace in Oak Park, Ill., had his Experience of a Lifetime take him to Washington, D.C. to witness the historic Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama. “I can recall the days of slavery when my grandfather and grandmother were whipped and beaten, and had the scars to prove it. I still don’t believe it to this day that he was elected President of the United States,” said Bouey. “I have witnessed not only my greatest wish, but also the dream of my parents,” said Bouey. “I felt born again.” “I never dreamt I would be having one of the most exciting experiences of my life at 84 years old.” • Sally Krueger, a former professional opera singer and resident of The Seasons Glenview Place in Northbrook, Ill., remembers when she lived in New York. It was there that she sang the Verdi Requiem in Carnegie Hall. Later, when she lived in Philadelphia, Ricardo Muti conducted the Philadelphia Orchestra. So, when Ricardo Muti came to Chicago for a historic performance of the Verdi Requiem, Krueger knew she had to attend. Thanks to Brookdale’s Experiences of a Lifetime program, her wish became a reality. Continued next page

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“This was an unbelievably special experience for me,” said Krueger. I will treasure this new memory forever.”

Saloon, Miss Kitty and her Kittens live upstairs, and the mayor is a horse named Horace.

• Bob Atkinson, a resident of Chatfield in West Hartford, Conn., was originally scheduled to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico to fulfill his Experience of a Lifetime. Health issues prevented him from attending, which allowed Koetter and Schultz, residents at Grand Court Albuquerque, to attend. Once Atkinson began feeling better, his wish was granted.

Attesting to the continuing popularity of Freedom Frolics, the two shows presented each year in April sell out the 400 tickets within a week. In addition, people pay full price to watch the dress rehearsal. “It’s evident that Freedom Frolics is a highlight of the year for our residents, providing them camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment,” said Suzy Burt, Lifestyle Program Director of Freedom Plaza Sun City Center. “Freedom Frolics undoubtedly encompasses all our Optimum Life goals through physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and purposeful activities.”

In his winning essay, Atkinson tells how he would attend the Annual Balloon Meet in Bristol, Conn. in his younger days. On several different occasions, he tried to arrange for a flight in a hot air balloon. Sometimes, it was cost-prohibitive, other times, the ride would be full. He was never able to fulfill his dream of riding in a hot air balloon until now.

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Freedom Frolics with their lot in life. So they find, by entrance through her cupboard, Hubbard’s Hideaway, an “R&R&R” resort where they are re-rhymed, rewritten and rehabilitated. Thus, Snow White no longer cleans a house for seven messy little men, Miss Muffet goes on a diet and gets a makeover, and Rapunzel learns what “let down your hair” really means from Little Boy Blue’s energetic rendition of Blue Suede Shoes. Examples of past Freedom Frolics shows include: • “Camel Lot,” a Medieval retirement center with characters such as Sir Dancalot (social director), Sir Bragalot (marketing director), and a court jester whose best act is juggling the books. • “Best Little Horse Town in Texas” where Brunhilda the Bartender rules over the Poison Pit 25 / OPTIMUM LIFE - VOL. 2, ISSUE 2

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Brookdale University The program has been running for two years and is very well received and attended. “Initially, we had some attendees coming to just get out of their apartment,” said Kay Bracco, a Dean of BSLU and resident of Holley Court Terrace. “Then, they got hooked and never miss a session.” “There is no end to the knowledge you can accrue through Brookdale University,” said Meyer. “And, we promise: no tests and no homework.”

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Godfather of Fitness Physically, LaLanne works out seven hours a week, at least one hour per day, and he spends one and one-half hours each weeklifting weights. “You eat and sleep every day, right?” said LaLanne. “Well, our body was made to exercise every day, too. It’s better to wear out than rust out.”

In addition to physical fitness, LaLanne has been a proponent of nutrition. One of his “LaLanneisms” is, “Exercise is king, nutrition is queen, put them together and you've got a kingdom.” When asked if he had any nutrition tips for seniors, he said, “If man makes it, don’t eat it. The food you eat today is the food that walks and talks tomorrow. If you put good stuff in your body, you will be glowing and gleaming like a youngster.” Brain fitness is another key component in his regimen. “It is something you have to do,” LaLanne said. “Your brain is a muscle, and you have to use it or risk losing it.” LaLanne is also the spokesperson for Dakim® BrainFitness™ System, a product designed specifically to help seniors maintain mental acuity through proprietary brain-building activities presented in a game show-like format. Dakim’s interactive puzzles, stories, word scrambles and other activities utilize pre-1950s film clips and other senior-friendly references, are updated frequently, and are played on a touch screen computer appliance that requires no mouse, keyboard or computer knowledge to operate. Several Brookdale communities offer this system for residents to use. “This system is really something,” said LaLanne. “It’s unique. I enjoy the way it starts out with something easier, then gets gradually more difficult. I like the challenge.” He uses the BrainFitness™ System every day, and never misses a day. He says it is so much fun, he has gotten hooked on it. “I don’t care what age you are, you will get hooked on this,” LaLanne said. When speaking of the connection between brain fitness and physical fitness, LaLanne said, “I see them as the same. Whatever you put into it, you get out of it. To do them correctly, you have to put something into it.” For final advice in living his Optimum Life, LaLanne said, “Practice what you preach.” For more information on LaLanne, visit www.jacklalanne.com.

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Enchanted Evening production had never been on stage before. By doing so, they too discovered a new, different world. We enjoyed the entire process immensely.” After weeks of preparation and practice, the big night arrived. The dining room was set up with the stage and the piano, and microphones, speakers and a sound system enabled everyone to enjoy the performance. Dining Services prepared appetizers, and traveling waiters served guests. Dining Services Manager, Steven Coutrier, looks forward to Celebrations themed events and dinners. “The events promote interaction between staff, residents, and families,” Coutrier, said. “It's like having a Thanksgiving dinner every month. We, the staff, give thanks to our residents and their loved ones who we serve and with whom we celebrate on how rich life can be at any age.” The show was a wonderful success. The room was packed with residents and family members. The night was filled with love, laughter, and standing ovations. “The night was wonderful,” gushed family member Sue E. Poe. “We all enjoyed the production, especially the dancing. The show could not have been better.” Overall, more than half of the assisted living residents were actively involved with the production. More than 80 percent of the entire community (including assisted living and Alzheimer’s/dementia residents) attended the production. So successful was the engagement that discussion about the next show began that night. Plans to produce a tribute to the “Sound of Music” are underway. “To all, this represented an opportunity to engage in all the dimensions of Optimum Life, especially social, and purposeful,” said Stacy DeLorenzo, Life Enrichment Coordinator. “In addition, the production was a wow factor for the Celebrations theme of ‘Lights, Camera, Action’ while the residents dreamed, dared and discovered during this enchanted evening.” BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 26

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Location, Location, Location the cost advantages accrue (resident, payer, provider, society)? • Is the quality of care higher when care settings are fully integrated? • How does the satisfaction of residents, their families and physicians compare between a continuing care environment and separate providers? ENHANCE activities began during September 2009. Researchers will use their initial discoveries to apply for funding to expand the depth and scope of the project. The Institute for Optimal Aging and the other ENHANCE coalition members hope that published results from this study will help older adults to more confidently make a personally-satisfying decision about the best place to spend their retirement. The results will be reported in a future issue of Optimum Life magazine. The Institute for Optimal Aging is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that works with researchers to help them focus their expertise on contemporary issues that impact older adults and to locate willing research participants. The Institute shares research results so they can be adopted within senior housing/retirement centers; assisted living and continuing care communities; by older adults; or by caregivers.

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Learning Knows No Age through sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences with others,” said Sara Terry, Senior Vice President for Optimum Life at Brookdale Senior Living®. “Research has shown that intellectual opportunities add to a resident’s satisfaction and quality of life. This program not only enriches and enhances one’s life, but adds purpose and meaning as well.” Upcoming classes are beginning, and residents 27 / OPTIMUM LIFE - VOL. 2, ISSUE 2

will be signing up for further exciting intellectual adventures through a school from which no one ever really graduates, The Freedom Plaza Graduate School for Seniors.

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Cross Train Your Brain Optimal Aging, is sponsoring symposiums on brain fitness in its senior living and retirement communities nationwide. For additional program information, visit www.brookdaleliving.com, Optimum Life, Brain Fitness.

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Ultimate Chef available to discuss living options, and visitors will learn more about the programs, outings and opportunities offered to residents. In addition, a silent auction will be featured at the event. Proceeds of the silent auction will benefit the Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation, an organization which elevates the national consciousness of caregiving and fosters a culture of healthy caregivers impacted by chronic illness through programming, universal access to resources, and behavioral research. The Ultimate Chef America tour is produced by the Culinary Arts Institute at Brookdale (CAI). The CAI at Brookdale is a professional development program designed to enhance the food preparation and presentation skills of Brookdale chefs. The dining and culinary arts team integrates hands-on training and classroom instructional materials that impart new food preparation skills and cutting edge techniques to enhance Brookdale residents’ dining experiences. For additional information about the Ultimate Chef America tour please visit our web site at www.ultimatechefamerica.com.

The Best Medicine in History

Movement Is Medicine From the dawn of civilization to the present, it has been one of the most effective means of optimizing health. It can be administered by the individual, costs nothing and requires only time and initiative by the individual. It’s called movement, and it is perhaps the best medicine available to anyone at any age. Movement is Medicine is an Optimum Life® initiative at Brookdale Senior Living® communities. It was designed to help residents take advantage of opportunities to enhance their quality of life and… • Learn about new activity guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Medical Association. • Discover fun and exciting ways to meet the guidelines. • Get inspired to get MOVING as part of living an Optimum Life-Brookdale Senior Living’s exclusive wellness culture and concept. Watch for details about Movement Is Medicine and other Optimum Life® events! ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office.

For more information about Optimum Life® visit www.brookdaleliving.com