Optimum Life Magazine

A B ROOKDALE S ENIOR L IVING P UBLICATION

Spring 2008

Brookdale Beats page 3 Dr. O’Neil

Young at Heart

Centenarians

page 5

page 11

page 15

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FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to the spring edition of Optimum Life®!

This issue is filled with stories that inspire, motivate, and illuminate the power of Optimum Life®. I’d like to dedicate this edition to the memory of Charlessa Wiggins, who shared her powerful secrets of living to 110, and will remain in our hearts and memories.

Readers will enjoy stories that highlight each dimension of Optimum Life® including: • Social: Music and its social capabilities are shown through features on two special musical groups, The Silvertones and the Young at Heart Kazoo Band.

• Emotional: A favorite recipe can evoke a very emotional response.

Learn how Dining Services gives residents an opportunity to share their recipes and passion for food. Also, we feature a resident sharing his emotional side through a poem he created.

• Spiritual: Residents get in touch with the spiritual side of music by highlighting how music impacted their life. Drum circles and the many benefits that residents are experiencing are also featured. The beat is heard across the country!

• Purposeful: In this issue, Ms. Wiggins as well as other centenarians share their stories, advice and best memories. Also, read how two very special residents, the Drevitches, are ambassadors of Optimum Life®.

• Intellectual: Sharpen your skills on communicating effectively with a health care professional with our tips. Plus, keep on exercising your brain and try the new Sudoku.

• Physical: Although this activity encompasses all dimensions, read how a new technology, WiiTM, keeps residents active.

Also, it is annual Resident Satisfaction Survey time. Our mission is to listen to and serve our residents, so, if you live in one of our communities, you will have an opportunity to complete the survey.

I strongly encourage you to participate in this purposeful activity your opinion matters!

I would also like to acknowledge our resident artists across the country who submitted their art to be used in publications, as well as highlighted in the next issue of this magazine.

The company’s commitment and resolution remains to you - our residents, associates, family members, business partners, and more – to enrich the lives of those we serve with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity.

CONTENTS

1 OPTIMUM PLAY

3 FEEL THE RHYTHM

5

HEALTH CARE COMMUNICATION

7

DINING REQUEST PROGRAMS

9 MAKING MUSIC

11

STAYING YOUNG AT HEART

13 SILVERTONES

14

15

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

9 5 2 6SUDOKU

2

5 6 4 2 6 1 7 9 8 CENTENARIANS 3 2 5 8 3 2 1 3 8 4 3 1 2

Optimum Life® is a publication of Brookdale Senior Living, Inc. Optimum Life® is published quarterly and 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 corporate offices in Chicago, Milwaukee and Nashville. Inquiries about content or suggestions for future articles should be directed to the Lifestyle associate at any Brookdale Senior Living community.

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Wii involves residents TM

A virtual revolution has descended upon several Brookdale Senior Living communities. Bowling leagues are being formed with no bowling alley in sight. Golf games are being played with no clubs. How is this possible? WiiTM, a gaming system by Nintendo®, alleviates the need to go to a bowling alley or golf course by allowing users to play these games “virtually” anywhere.

WiiTM revolutionizes the world of video games by using a handheld controller that mimics the movements of the user. This gives the user an interactive experience where they control action and movement.

For example, if the user is playing a golf game on WiiTM, the user will swing the controller just like a golf club. Their exact swing will be executed on screen.

As WiiTM and its popularity sweeps the nation, Brookdale and its communities are embracing the WiiTM and its benefits.

WiiTM encompasses most dimensions of Optimum Life®, and residents are engaged with the new technology.

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in

ts in

Optimum Play

To begin, WiiTM allows residents to practice the physical dimension. “Many of the games played in our community such as golf, bowling, tennis and baseball are physically challenging, and allow residents to use motor skills they may have not used in a while, or develop new ones,” said Tegan Hill, Fitness Coordinator and Exercise Physiologist at Chambrel Williamsburg in Virginia.

“I like playing because it is good exercise; I never thought I would still be involved in sports at my age,” said a resident at Galleria Woods Retirement Community in Birmingham, Ala.

All residents are able to participate, regardless of age, health or ability. A resident in a wheelchair adds, “I felt like I actually participated in the real life sport of bowling after playing WiiTM.”

When asked why he wanted his own system, a resident at Devonshire Hoffman Estates who owns a WiiTM responded, “I think that this is a wonderful game for people with disabilities like wheelchairs and walkers.

All they have to do is use their right or left arm to play.”

The physical aspect of WiiTM has other unique uses as well. “In addition, therapy is exploring implementing Wii into part of its program,” said Rose Vera, Executive Director at Summit Lakeway in Texas.

“We also want to explore using Wii with an Alzheimer’s exercise group,” said Angela Ott, Lifestyles Assistant at Freedom Plaza in Peoria, Ariz.

Learning new technology and several games engages the intellectual dimension.

“I believe what the residents enjoy most about Wii is being able to learn something new and continue to find ways to challenge themselves,” said Hill.

“Intellectually, this helps residents sharpen their Continued on page 17

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B R O O K D A L E B E AT S

Feel the R

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e Rhythm

of Wellness and Fun One of the newest additions to the Celebrations program is Brookdale Beats, a drum circle.

Celebrations, a year-long program designed exclusively for Brookdale’s residents and communities, features a soundtrack of fun this year with the theme “Music of Our Lives.”

Music, a universal language, has been used for thousands of years as an avenue of healing. Specifically, drums have been used as a tool for ceremonial and festive communication for centuries. Considered an “instrument of the people,” the drum allows anyone to make music, regardless of musical training or ability.

During a drum circle, everyone participates by making music using drums. Recalling the natural rhythms of the body, namely the beating heart, drum circles help participants connect with deeper rhythms, thus bringing about healing. During this active event, all participants release “feel-good” chemicals, also making a positive impact on health. Participants may experience benefits similar to those of practicing yoga, aerobics or meditation.

For Brookdale residents, drum circles fulfill many of the dimensions of Optimum Life®, a way of life offered by the company at its communities. The communities provide resources and opportunities that enable residents to understand health and life fulfillment,

whatever their real or perceived limitations may be, by balancing six key dimensions of Optimum Life®. Those dimensions are: emotional, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and purposeful.

Drum circles offer a unique fulfillment of these dimensions, including socialization, building selfesteem, actively improving range of motion and circulation, and participating in memory protective programming components.

In addition, drum circles offer many more health benefits, including: • Decreased anxiety and depression.

• Improved immunity.

• Having fun, and being in the moment.

• An improvement in language ability.

• Making new social connections.

• Improved joint mobility and posture.

• Increased energy.

• Help with motor skills.

Participation in a drum circle is appropriate for everyone, regardless of age, ability and physical or cognitive limitations. This experience is set up to be fun, Continued on page 17

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Communicating with Your

Health Care Professional An important part of living an Optimum Life® is being an active participant in your own health care. A key player in this realm is your health care provider. A health care professional is anyone who is actively involved in the Dr. Kevin O’Neil care and administration of your health, including a doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, specialist and more.

The relationship between you and your health care professional is a very important one, and is built on mutual trust and understanding. The health care professional is an expert in the field of medicine, and you are the expert on you.

It is important for you to tell him or her your concerns in a

concise and thorough way so he or she can make the best decisions on your behalf. Being as active in your health decisions as possible will lead to the best outcomes.

As a consumer of health care it is important for you to get the most from visits to health care professionals.

They are generally pressed for time in today’s busy health care setting. This means that being organized and ready with your concerns will help you make the most of the time you do have. There are some important principles to keep in mind as you approach your health-related concerns: • Educate yourself.

Remember that knowledge is power and the more you know about your health, the more equipped you will be to maintain good health.

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• Organize yourself. Keep good records of your medications, past medical history, allergies, surgeries and all of the doctors you see.

• Empower yourself. Don’t be afraid to be assertive if there is something you do not understand.

In addition, here is some advice on how to prepare for an appointment with a health care professional.

• The agenda for your visit is determined within the first few minutes, so if you have other issues that need to be addressed, communicate them right at the start.

• Organize your thoughts in writing prior to your visit. Limit your agenda items to no more than two or, at most, three items. Request another visit or an

The relationship between you and your health care professional is a very important one, and is built on mutual trust and understanding. extended visit if more issues need to be addressed.

• Bring a notebook or writing pad so that you can take notes during the course of your visit.

• Ask questions if you need more information or you are unclear on something. A health care professional will interpret silence as agreement and/or understanding as to what has been said.

• If you do not understand a term used, ask for clarification.

• If you have hearing difficulties, wear your hearing aid if you have one. Consider asking a spouse or relative to accompany you to the visit. Ask the health care professional to write down crucial information or instructions, or bring a tape recorder so that you can review later with a spouse or relative.

• Bring a list of your medications or, better yet, bring all your medicines in their containers. Make sure to include vitamins and any herbal supplements so the health care professional can check for interactions with your prescription medicines.

• If a lab or x-ray test is ordered, discuss the purpose of the test, what needs to be done if the test is abnormal, and how the results are to be reported.

• If a medication is prescribed, ask about the purpose of the medicine, how it should be taken, how long it should be taken, what side effects to look for, and if a generic form is available. Make sure your health care professional is aware of any previous drug reactions and allergies.

• If a consultation is recommended with another health care professional, ask about the purpose of the consultation and who should set up the appointment with the consultant. Ask your health care professional when you should return to see him/her.

• Make sure you have a date set up for your next appointment prior to leaving the office.

With these suggestions, you will have the tools necessary to communicate more effectively with health care professionals, resulting in the ability to be more in control of your health and well-being.

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Tailor Made for Residents –

DINING REQUEST PROGRAMS Living an Optimum Life® means living life to the fullest and having passion. Oftentimes, residents have personal connections to the food they eat and deeplyrooted feelings for certain food, whether it is a cherished recipe that evokes special memories, or a good meal enjoyed with friends. In order to ensure the highest level of resident satisfaction with the menus we offer, Brookdale Senior Living has two programs in place to incorporate resident requests and suggestions.

“These unique Brookdale programs have proven to be useful tools in giving residents a sense of ownership and pride in

their community,” said Joska Hajdu, Senior Vice President of Dining Services for Brookdale. “We enjoy making our residents happy by incorporating their recipes and suggestions into the community’s menu choices.”

The following Dining Programs are available at Brookdale communities:

Resident Requests Brookdale communities are dedicated to taking residents’ requests and suggestions into consideration when creating their own customized seasonal menus.

These requests and suggestions are logged in the “Resident Request Log,” which is kept at the host stand of the dining room. The purpose of this log book is to not only incorporate the regional favorites, but also their resident’s personal meal preferences when it comes to planning the menu.

Furthermore, it is expected that any reasonable request is honored within ten days.

Resident Recipes Another way to fulfill a resident’s request or suggestion is by utilizing a recipe that was submitted by a resident.

Brookdale strongly encourages residents to submit their favorite recipes so the resident and their recipe can be featured on the menu. To participate in this Continued on page 18 U ML ILFIEF E- -S PSRP IRNI G N G2 0 2 0 80 8 71 0/ /OO P TP ITMI M UM

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Resident Poem Submitted by William

McRostie, resident of Edina Park Plaza in Edina, Minn.

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Making

MUSIC

This year, Brookdale Senior Living is featuring a

union where she played for country, classical and

soundtrack of fun with the year-

polka dances. These dances lasted all

long topic of “Music of Our Lives”

night until the dancers had to return

for Celebrations.

home in time to milk the cows. The

The series keeps the musical

community considers it a good

theme in front of residents with

fortune that Eberle is so generous in

special events to influence all their

sharing her musical talent with

senses, all the while fulfilling the

everyone on Sunday afternoons, and

dimensions of Optimum Life®

Charlotte Chew

in a musical manner.

One focus of Celebrations is

is more than happy to play at a moments notice.

When walking into Mary Ellen Marshall’s room at

experiences.

Clare Bridge Fort Collins in Colo., visitors will notice

Dorothy Eberle, a talented,

many plaques of music achievement for singing and

piano-playing resident of

playing the piano. She has several from the Lion’s

sharing

fun

in

Club and one from a Rotary Club appreciating her

Calif.,

years of beautiful music. The plaque that stands out

shares her talent with

the most is the one that reads “Mary Ellen Marshall

the entire community.

Day,” proclaiming her own day by the city of Lufkin,

She began to play the

Texas. At the community, Marshall fills the air with

piano at age 6 and

great talent and beautiful music for all the residents.

learned to read music,

Reminiscing is an important part of the

Woodside Redwood

Terrace City,

still

intellectual and emotional dimension of Optimum

prefers to play all the

Life® for residents. A resident at Freedom Inn

tunes by ear. At age

Countryside in Clearwater, Fla., Bill Pollard, uses

10,

father

music as the opportunity to share a part of his past

an

with members of the community. Pollard attended

accordion. Growing up

the University of Chicago and Boston University and

she played in her high

received three Master’s Degrees in music. He also

school’s

and

taught piano and how to write music at the colleges.

joined the musician’s

In addition, while Pollard served in the military, he

although

bought

she

her her

band,

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entertained his fellow service men in down times

honor of one of the

during the war. Pollard still has a love for music and

oldest-lived

is a wonderful piano player. He still remembers some

country/bluegrass

songs that he can play from memory, and entertains

bands in the nation.

residents on a weekly basis.

In December 2007

Music also gives residents an opportunity to

Grant was presented

exercise the purposeful dimension of Optimum Life®.

with the Carolinas

For example, Charlotte Chew is a resident of

Country/Bluegrass/

Brookdale Place University Park in Birmingham, Ala.,

Gospel Hall of Fame's

and was a founding player in the Alabama Symphony

Legends Award.

Doris Hults

Orchestra in Birmingham, Ala. She continued to play

An Optimum Life ® program, Healing Harp

for the Alabama Symphony for 25 years. Chew "loved

Music, embraces the emotional and spiritual

her fiddle," but generously gave it to a child in the

dimension. During it, residents increase their

Youth Orchestra when she moved to Brookdale Place

relaxation by listening to harp music. Doris Hults of

University Park.

Carolina House Cary in North Carolina, exhibited

In other examples, music may prove to be one’s

her harp-playing expertise during her life, and

purpose in life, as shown by Nat Merrill and Roy

visitors remain influenced by it.

Grant. Merrill, a resident of Park Place in Spokane,

Hults toured and played the

Wash., was a dynamic force in the Opera World in

harp for the Fred Waring

New York and Colorado. At 40 he became the

Orchestra for 14 years. She

youngest and first American-born director of the

was also a staff harpist for

Metropolitan

CBS and played on radio,

Opera in New

television and recordings.

York.

To this day, the harp portion

Merrill

conducted

37

of the music heard at Disney

productions

in

World® Resort's Haunted

22 years - all

House is played by Hults.

among the best the

As can be seen, through

company

its experience, music can

Nat Merrill

ever featured. He

have an impact on the

relocated to Colorado and became the co-founder of

body, mind, and spirit of

Opera Colorado. There, he directed 33 productions.

an

Roy Grant is the only living member of

individual

and

a

community.

Briarhoppers, a Bluegrass band, and resides at Wilora Lake Lodge in Charlotte, N.C. From 1934 until 1951, the Briarhoppers had a radio show, "Briarhopper Time,"

broadcast

from

Charlotte,

N.C.

The

Briarhoppers were also heard by U.S. soldiers during World War II through CBS Radio in California. After 1951, the band continued to perform, and earned the BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING / 10

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Staying

“Young a Musical instruments come in many sizes, shapes and sounds. One instrument someone may not hear very often is the distinctively fun tone of the kazoo. At Hampton Tanglewood in Houston, an assisted living community, the sounds of kazoos fill the hallways.

The Young at Heart Kazoo Band was conceived by several residents of Hampton Tanglewood during a bus tour of Houston in late 2003. Gift bags

movie YOUNG@HEART in midApril at a Houston movie theater.

The movie, in theaters nationwide, is a documentary that features a New England senior citizens chorus in an unexpectedly moving testament to friendship, creative inspiration, and defying expectations.

Louis DeCrescente is the 99-year-old founding member of the band. Known as both the “Kazoo Godfather” and “Kazoo Louie,” he displays a passion for playing the kazoo.

“As a small boy, about 7 or 8 years old, I played a kazoo,” said DeCrescente. “I was curious to see how a whole band of kazoos would sound. After our first rehearsal, I knew we were going to be okay.”

Tracy Ahrens, Life Enrichment Coordinator at

distributed to the tour participants included kazoos.

By the end of the tour, several passengers were making music. A band of 18 members formed, ranging in age from 75 to 99, and practices began.

The band’s debut concert was held in February 2004.

Today, the band has performed for more than 12,000 youngsters and those “young at heart.” In addition, the kazoo band will perform at the screening of the

Hampton Tanglewood, helped start the band and has been with it ever since. “As a group we made the decision to just start playing and creating as we went along...we never looked back. Now, at every rehearsal and performance, the band and its members inspire me, and, most importantly, they inspire each other.”

In June 2007 the band achieved what any musical group hopes to – recording a CD. With the help of

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g atHeart”with Music SugarHill Recording Studios, the Young at Heart Kazoo Band CD features 15 tracks ranging from “oldies, but goodies” to patriotic songs.

All the dimensions of Optimum Life® are exhibited by the band. “The Kazoo Band is a shining example of Optimum Life’s mission, “The key to aging well is living well,”” said Ahrens. “The band creates an

The Kazoo Band is a true testament of music having the power to bring people together.

atmosphere to encourage our residents to keep looking for the possibilities and opportunities in life.”

As a group, the members believe “that the arts play a vital role to help us age creatively. Our band is creating exciting perceptions of who senior adults are, what they can create, and, more importantly, how they can contribute to our community.”

As can be seen, one of the most obvious dimensions embraced is purposeful.

“The Kazoo Band is a vehicle to allow our seniors to contribute back to the Houston community with their music, humor and wisdom,” said Ahrens.

“The Kazoo Band gives others the gift of music, so it is a way for her to continue to give back to others,” said Sharon Smalling, daughter of band member Julia Lechter.

“During an interview with a local TV station, band member Corrine Secrest’s face just lit up the screen when she talked about what it meant to her to perform for sick children,” said Mary Miller, Executive Director at Hampton Tanglewood.

Socially, the band members enjoy being with each other and meeting new people.

“The best part about being a member of the band is the fellowship of all the band members,” said Lecther.

“I like to go out and meet the public,” said Secrest. “There are so many different places where we perform, and we get to meet so many different people.”

The Kazoo Band is a true testament of music having the power to bring people together.

“We are all different ages, races and abilities,” said Robin Byrd, special guest band member and transportation coordinator. “But, when we come together as a band, everything, including our music, flows so smoothly.”

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ertone v l i S e s Th

Singing With a Purpose The Heritage Des Plaines in Illinois is especially excited by the Celebrations theme this year, “Music of Our Lives.”

“Our community is very musical,” said Anne Schwartz, Director of Lifestyle Programs at The Heritage Des Plaines. “Our residents love all kinds of music, whether it’s the entertainment brought in, music played during Mix ‘n Mingle, or our Dinner Dances – the residents respond and enjoy music.”

So, Schwartz decided to put together a chorus at the community, and announced the start of a new singing group. Organized and led by Schwartz’s daughter, Christy – a pianist, the new ensemble quickly formed and came up with the name “The Silvertones Chorus.”

The Silvertones have about 12-15 members, and meet weekly for an hour-long rehearsal. They perform music for all of the holidays, as well as music that compliments the Celebrations theme of the month.

The Silvertones and a local elementary school have formed a special relationship. For many members, a performance in honor of Veteran’s Day in front of the schoolchildren remains one of their favorite and most memorable times together.

“When they completed their concert, the kids leapt to their feet and cheered in a thunderous ovation that went on and on,” said Schwartz. “It was such a wonderful intergenerational moment, and the audience was wiping their eyes from the emotion of it all. It gave all members a sense of purpose and satisfaction knowing what they

worked for had such a wonderful reception.”

Singing in The Silvertones incorporates all the dimensions of Optimum Life®. Singing is an outlet for the spirit. “We forget our aches and our pains, and have great time singing,” said Ruth Rochotte, a member of The Silvertones.

Singing is also an outlet for the emotional dimension. “We love to sing,” said Jane Crowe, a chorus member. “It brings back memories.”

The Silvertones give their voices a good workout each and every week, and are engaging the physical aspect of Optimum Life®. The group often learns new songs and memorizes the material, sometimes learning a song in another language, thus flexing the intellectual component.

Lastly, being a member of a group is an opportunity to be social. “What I like most is that I get to see my lovely friends week after week,” said Mavis Moore, a member.

“What I like best is the togetherness,” said Rose Elvey, a member of the group.

Most of all, The Silvertones have embraced their purpose. “The level of commitment the group shows every week is phenomenal,” said Schwartz. “For example, they cancel doctor appointments and tell family not to visit during practice time. The group has come to mean something very special in their lives.”

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Sudoku While living an Optimum Life®, keeping your mind sharp is just as important as exercising your body. The intellectual dimension can be enhanced through many fun options, such as playing word games, solving puzzles, and learning a new language.

For many, numbers are intriguing. Sudoku, a mind puzzle featuring digits, was developed by a 74-year-old retired architect, Howard Garns, in

1979. Known as a Japanese mind game, the game became popular in the United States recently and is featured in several major newspapers such as The New York Times, Washington Post and Boston Globe.

Test your ability with the puzzle below, rated “medium” in level of difficulty. The object of the game is to insert the numbers 1 through 9 in the boxes below so each row, column and box use each number only once.

9 5 2 6

2

1

5 6 4 2 6 1 7 9 8 3 2 5 8 3 2 1 3 8 4 3 1 2 Sudoku solution on page 18

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Centenarians Share Memories & Philosophies on Big Birthday When many of us think of an upcoming significant birthday, it normally only has one “0” on the end of it.

For approximately 440 residents at Brookdale Senior Living communities, 2008 marks a big birthday with two “0’s” attached to it – 100 years old. Also, 315 residents will turn 101 or more this year.

“Centenarians are the fastest growing segment of the population. In 1900, there were only about 1,000 centenarians in all of the United States,” said Dr. Kevin O’Neil, Optimum Life® Medical Director for Brookdale Senior Living. “Today there are more than 60,000 centenarians in the U.S. It is anticipated with the advancing wave of boomers that the number of centenarians will increase to at least 600,000 to 1 million by 2050.”

Many of these special residents are prime examples of individuals who embody the dimensions of an Optimum Life® on a daily basis. “The Optimum Life culture encourages everyone to embrace wellness in all its dimensions because ultimately this will lead not only to longevity, but improved health outcomes and a better quality of life,” said Dr. O’Neil.

Charlessa Wiggins of The Meadows Glen Ellyn in Glen Ellyn, Ill. was one of Brookdale’s oldest residents, and turned 110 in February. Sadly, she passed away on March 29, 2008, but her memory and spirit live on and are honored.

Wiggins lived at The Meadows Glen Ellyn since October 2007. She embraced the social dimension and said the highlight of living there is the people she met. She especially enjoyed the Assisted Living associates that helped her every day.

Judy Petersen, Assisted 15 / OPTIMUM LIFE -

Living Director at The Meadows Glen Ellyn, said Wiggins was selfless and practiced the purposeful dimension. A favorite story Wiggins told was of how she volunteered her entire adult life cooking meals for others. “I think Charlessa aged so well partly because of her good health, but mostly because of her joy for life,” said Petersen.

Marie Gurnik, Executive Director at The Meadows Glen Ellyn feels it was residents like Charlessa who inspire all of the associates. “She was truly welcoming of every day, and enjoyed it to the fullest,” said Gurnik. “We were blessed to have such a wonderful lady in our community.”

One of the best parts of being a centenarian is the party. Rose Stein, a resident of Brendenwood in Voorhees, N.J., had a surprise birthday party with many special guests. One of the guests of honor was the mayor of Voorhees,

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Michael Mignogna, who presented Stein with a proclamation. The other guests were friends and family, including three generations of the family – her daughter, granddaughter and great-granddaughter.

“Practically every resident came to Rose's party. Rose said she felt like a celebrity,” said Lloyd Christy, executive director at Brendenwood. “Everyone had a wonderful time, especially our sweet Rose.”

Chancellor Place of Windsor in Windsor, Calif. is also very proud to announce that Doris Grinsell has reached the wise age of 100. To celebrate, her friends and family threw a huge party in her honor. Festivities included a photo collage of her life, a great spread of food and beverages, and a look back at her amazing journey thus far.

In addition to good genes, Grinsell has a determined ‘never give up’ spirit. She has a group of like-minded companions with whom she plays dominoes every single day and believes the activity and interaction help her to stay active and sharp. She loves music programs and special events, and lifts weights daily during the morning exercise class she faithfully attends.

“We are so pleased that Doris is a part of our Chancellor Place family,” said Nancy Unger, executive director of Chancellor Place of Windsor. “She brightens up the room with her smile and her ‘devil-may-care’ way of looking at the world. In 100 years, her spirit has not dimmed, only grown bolder.”

A resident of the independent living community Park Regency in Chandler, Ariz. for seven years, Helene Zagar recently turned 100 as well.

A championship billiard player, Zagar stays active and social by playing pool every day. She also enjoys playing pinochle, a card game, with friends to stay sharp and have fun. When alone, she enjoys the quiet time and crochets.

On the meaning of turning 100, Zagar states, “This

milestone makes me grateful, and I look forward to many more good things.”

Each birthday gives Zagar the social dimension she enjoys. “Family, friends and all the love that is poured out is my favorite thing about each birthday,” she said.

Mary Hails is the Sterling House Panama City in Florida’s 100-year-old resident. There since 1999, Hails is an active resident who enjoys exercise class, music programs, singing and bible study.

Blessed with family, Hails has four sons and one daughter, 20 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with her big family.

“Mary is an inspiration to me,” said Jim Certalic, maintenance technician for Sterling House Panama City. “She has an amazing attitude, and is determined to continue to be as active as she is at her age.”

Those older than 100 often give others a good example to live by as well. Clarence Ramsey, a recent resident of Kenwood of Lake View in Chicago is 101 and says he “tries to live intelligently.”

Ramsey still practices each dimension of Optimum Life® in his daily life. Intellectually, he has a continued love for reading, and physically he attends exercise classes at the community. To fulfill the purposeful and social dimension, Ramsey maintains relationships with family and friends and always has friendly interactions with staff and other residents. On an emotional level, he is very sincere and caring. Spiritually, Ramsey continues to lead a meaningful life.

“I believe he ages so well because he does not let the little things in life bring him down,” said Nuawanna Sullivan, Director of Assisted Living at Kenwood of Lake View.

What great words to learn and practice every day.

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Continued from page 2

Wii involves residents in Optimum Play TM

thinking process and reaction,” said Veronica Colon, Activities Assistant at Chambrel Williamsburg.

“I enjoy the learning experience,” said a resident at Galleria Woods. “We should never stop trying to learn new things regardless of what stage of life we are in.”

“Playing Wii proves I can learn to do some of the more difficult and challenging things of today’s world,” said a resident at Chambrel Williamsburg.

WiiTM gives residents and associates alike purpose.

In fact, communities have used it for associates to interact with residents. When pressed, all associates admitted that the residents won most of the time.

A resident at Devonshire Hoffman Estates not only shares his WiiTM with others, but his next step is to teach enough residents to “bowl” and form a league.

The resident also helps the Lifestyle Department staff during classes so the department can do more one-onone teaching to everyone who wants to learn.

A resident at Chambrel Williamsburg said, “Now I can compete with the younger generations.”

“Wii allows residents to feel young again, and gives them a sense of accomplishment,” said Ott. Emotionally, residents and their grandchildren are connecting more than ever.

“We’re seeing many residents playing these games with their grandkids and great-grandkids,” said Alana Maxey, Resident Services Director at Galleria Woods. “It has been a wonderful opportunity for our residents to be a part of a significant intergenerational experience.”

“I like learning what my grandkids are doing,” said a resident at Freedom Plaza.

In addition, WiiTM encourages healthy sportsmanship. The residents enjoy playing with and against each other, and they all support each other.

“Some of our ladies are very proper and reserved,”

said Diane Kearney, Lifestyle Director at Devonshire Hoffman Estates. “Wii brings out ‘cheerleaders,’ and I see quiet people jumping for joy.”

WiiTM is a social champion. One of the biggest and most mentioned benefits include the social interaction that playing the games encourages.

“It’s just fun playing it, and a great opportunity for fellowship with other residents,” said a resident at Galleria Woods.

“Playing Wii is good for me; it allows me to interact with other residents,” said a resident at Devonshire Hoffman Estates.

“Wherever the Wii is, that area is always filled with cheering, laughing, and, at times, serious competition,” said Brenda Perkins, Director of Lifestyles at Chambrel Williamsburg.

Continued from page 4

Feel the Rhythm of Wellness and Fun energizing and enlightening.

Communities and residents have embraced the drum circles. “Our first drum circle was such fun for our residents,” said Christine Hendrick, executive director of Clare Bridge Highlands Ranch in Colorado.

“There were smiles and participation all around.”

The drum circles at Clare Bridge Highlands Ranch are lead by White Tail of Rocky Mountain Heartbeat Drums. Music accompanies this drum circle, and includes such sing-along favorites as "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "You are My Sunshine," "Put on a Happy Face," and "Take me Home Country Roads."

“The drum circle is very popular in our community,” said Greg Yackley, Director of Lifestyle Programs for Grand Court Novi in Michigan. “The residents enjoy making music together. It’s an activity where everyone can get on the same level

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regardless of age or ability.”

At the community, Yackley normally leads the drum circle, but recently he put a new twist on the activity and asked the residents participating to pick a song they enjoy, and to play that beat. As soon as one resident did this, the other participants immediately followed. By the end of the song several were singing the tune and playing their instrument at the same time.

“I like everything about the drum circles,” said a resident at Grand Court Novi. “It makes me feel good about what I’m doing, and we - staff and residents have fun together.”

“The success of Chambrel’s Drum Circle is ongoing,” said Jan Jordan, Director of Lifestyle Programs at Chambrel Club Hill in Garland, Texas.

The leader recently went around a drum circle and asked each resident to describe it in one word. Some of the responses were, “peace,” “ joyful,” “fun,” “amazing,” “community,” “expressive,” “calming,” and “friends,” were a few of the comments.

A resident said, “I don’t know how this works, I just know that I love coming to the circle, and love the way it makes me feel.”

“The drum circle gives them the freedom to be who they are with no expectations or performance demands, and they know how much they each mean to the success of the circle,” said Jordan. “They are personally committed to the activity and its obvious benefits.”

Continued from page 7

Tailor Made for Residents – Dining Request Programs program, residents simply need to drop off his or her recipe to the dining staff; the recipe is then submitted to Corporate Dining Services via an online form. The recipes are then reviewed and nutritionally analyzed

and modified for the various diets offered. New recipes are then added to Brookdale’s online recipe database.

Both programs are simple to implement and execute on a day-to-day basis, and both have a big impact on resident satisfaction. Many residents have taken advantage of these programs already. For example, Joy Frank, a resident at The Hallmark in Chicago, brought a special recipe with her - Jicama Salad.

A Chicagoan all her life, Joy Frank moved to Scottsdale, Arizona. after her husband retired. It was there that she was introduced to jicama. From then on, whenever Frank would host a dinner, she would make her special Jicama Salad. She always served it beautifully, color coordinated the plates, and made a fantastic presentation.

“When I moved back to Chicago, I couldn’t wait to introduce ‘Jicama Salad’ to the Hallmark,” said Frank.

“When the menu features ‘Joy Frank’s Jicama Salad,’ it makes me feel very happy. I find it very delicious.”

Brookdale is proud to offer programs for residents to easily share their food-related passion with others.

Solution for Sudoku on page 14

7 2 1 9 5 3 8 6 4

9 4 8 6 2 1 3 5 7

5 6 3 4 7 8 2 1 9

6 8 7 5 9 4 1 2 3

4 3 9 1 6 2 5 7 8

2 1 5 3 8 7 9 4 6

8 5 6 2 4 9 7 3 1

3 7 4 8 1 5 6 9 2

1 9 2 7 3 6 4 8 5

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“LIVING HERE WILL EXTEND OUR LIVES” Champions of Optimum Life® Share Thoughts, Philosophies and Life of those rare people whom you During a recent chat with Sam and meet and makes your life better Dora Drevitch, residents of River Bay just by knowing him,” said Mary Club in Quincy, Mass., so many Ann Huber, Director of Lifestyle wonderful quotes and philosophies Programs at River Bay Club. were shared; it was difficult to decide “Dora has a great sense of humor, which ones to highlight. The two that and is very loving. As a couple, made the biggest impact, however, they truly compliment each were, “Living here will extend our other.” lives,” and, “Smile, and the world They now enjoy many smiles with you.”

Sam and Dora hobbies, and always participate in The Drevitches have embraced the ® them together. Their apartment is filled with paintings dimensions of living an Optimum Life , far before they and ceramics they crafted. even knew this lifestyle existed at Brookdale Senior In addition to staying physically active, they sharpen Living. Born is Boston, Sam had a paper route growing up their intellect by playing card games, primarily Bridge. and happened to notice a “cute girl” along his route.

Sam holds lessons and patiently teaches by example and Luckily they saw each other again at a boy/girl party. As through handouts he developed. Spiritually, the couple fate would have it, that meeting paired the right two attends a religious ceremony most Friday afternoons. people together for life.

Both have practiced the purposeful dimension by Married now for 66 years, the two share an amazing life volunteering for various causes and events throughout together. During the early years of their marriage, they their lives. remained active by being “Jitterbugs,” and performed the Emotionally, they embrace some of the most positive popular dance together when they went out. Sam was a attitudes ever. “No negativity,” said Sam. “I always say, pioneer in his trade of chemical engineering, and Dora “Embrace it. Don’t fight it.”” stayed home to raise a son and a daughter. Their family now “His sense of humor, enthusiasm and support of all includes three grandsons and six great-grandchildren. Sam are contagious attributes,” said Huber. was an active champion of lawn bowling, and his expertise The Drevitches effortlessly demonstrate each in this sport took him and Dora on countless travels across dimension of Optimum Life®. Sam confirms, “We try to the world while playing in matches. do all of them, and incorporate all into our everyday “She never missed a tournament in 40 years,” Sam said lifestyle. We don’t have to really work on it.” fondly of his wife.

Taking advantage of the opportunities offered at a “He’s a remarkable man,” counters Dora. community and practicing the dimensions of Optimum The loving banter between them has been formed by Life® are key components to extending life and aging sticking together through life’s ups and downs. “Sam is one well, as proven by the Drevitches.

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SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM “Proud to serve the residents and associates of Brookdale Senior Living, and in support of everyone achieving an Optimum Life®”

PLATINUM SPONSOR

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Country music is a blend of popular musical forms that originated in the southern United States. Its roots can be found in traditional folk music, blues, and even Celtic music. Country music evolved rapidly in the 1920s and subsequently the genre produced one of the top selling solo artists of all time, Elvis Presley. Appearing on the Louisiana Hayride for three years, Elvis went on to define rock and roll. Country music maintains a strong presence in today’s musical scene. As of 2007, Country is the most popular radio format in America, reaching over 77 million adults – nearly 40 percent of the adult population – every week.

Coming in May to your Brookdale Senior Living Community

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Satisfaction

May is Resident Satisfaction Survey month!

Each year, in an effort to improve our services, we ask our residents to tell us how we are doing. We learn from you what is important, and take action to improve the quality of services and experiences our residents have every day.

Your opinion matters. Please complete your Resident Satisfaction Survey by May 16.

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