LIFE Magazine, The Quarterly Publication of CJE SeniorLife, Spring 2015 by CJE SeniorLife

LIFE THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF CJE SENIORLIFE SPRING 2015

BUSY IN OUR COMMUNITIES RESIDENTIAL ... ROBINEAU RESIDENCE HEALTHCARE ... LIEBERMAN CENTER ONLINE ... THE VIRTUAL SENIOR CENTER

Save the Date OCTOBER 13, 2015

HONORING JAMES C. MILLS

Celebrate CJE’s 10th Anniversary Event

H yat t R e g e n c y C h i c a g o 5:30 p.m. Reception 6:30 p.m. Dinner & Program

event committee* CELEBRATE CJE CHAIRS Susan Arbeiter Reese Kalman Wenig HONOREE James C. (Jim) Mills SPONSORSHIP CHAIRS Samuel P. Brilliant James M. Feldman AD BOOK CHAIR Marci L. Shapiro BOARD CHAIR Stephen P. Sandler DEVELOPMENT CHAIR Alan I. Greene PRESIDENT & CEO Mark D. Weiner COMMITTEE Marilyn D. Altman Jordy C. Berger Michael D. Blum, M.D. Dennis J. Carlin Barbara A. Gilbert Richard M. Kohn Kenneth F. Lorch Leslie Markman-Stern Jason Mills Vicki Pines Karen & Barry Rosenthal Carol Mills Saldinger & Lee Saldinger Lois Zoller *Committee list in formation.

JAMES C. MILLS CJE SeniorLife will honor James C. (Jim) Mills of Chicago, Chair of the first two Celebrate CJE events in 2005 and 2006, on the tenth anniversary of Celebrate CJE. Over the years, Jim’s vision, passion, and tireless efforts have increased the Jewish and larger community’s awareness and support of CJE’s mission to enhance the lives of older adults.

Featuring amazing music by the legendary

Ramsey Lewis and His Electric Band

CJE SeniorLife™ is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/ Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.

L I F E M A G A Z I N E S TA F F Vice President, Marketing Management Carole Klein-Alexander

Viewpoint

Manager, Marketing and Communications Mary Keen Senior Digital Marketing Specialist Nicole Bruce E-Marketing Specialist Lana Gorelova

C O N T R I B U TO R S Joan Richman Ente Laura Prohov

Read Life Magazine online www.cje.net/life We always strive for accuracy, but if you have any questions or concerns, please call 773.508.1024.

Dear Reader, When my husband and I left our home in the city 27 years ago to move to the suburbs, I found myself driving back to the old neighborhood for haircuts and dry cleaning. In the beginning, I missed chatting with neighbors in the apartment hallway and having friends from upstairs just drop in. That lasted about a year, and then I realized that my new house had finally become my home. By joining a synagogue and getting involved in our children’s schools, we met other parents who have become lifelong friends. We had indeed become part of the community; I even found a hair salon just a short drive from home. People, regardless of age, crave the sense of belonging that comes with being a part of a community. A 2011 study by AARP showed that 90% of people 65 and older want to remain in their homes as long as possible. In this issue of LIFE we will explore several services and programs that CJE can provide to support those who want to “age in place.” Also, our residential communities—independent housing, assisted living or skilled nursing—provide more than daily care, housing and food. We provide programming and an atmosphere that embraces the development of meaningful relationships, whether through group dining or through the design of our buildings. Robineau Residence is a shining example of a group living residence that creates a true sense of community. Its one-level floor plan has an arrangement of six suites with four private bedrooms and baths around living rooms with kitchens—a perfect arrangement to encourage socializing among its 24 residents who enjoy group activities, meals and more. A full calendar of activities all week long provides countless opportunities for residents to sing, laugh and eat together. In January, we also welcomed Holocaust Community Services (HCS) back to CJE. Survivors represent a very special community of older adults who share a bond of a traumatic history. HCS care management staff provides opportunities for this group of older adults to meet and benefit from the encouragement of fellow survivors through on-going support and discussion groups. Social programs and celebrations are offered as well. From the members of our CJE community who call Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation their home to our residents at Weinberg Community for Senior Living, our efforts to promote community at CJE are carried out by an array of skilled life enrichment, creative arts, social work and Religious Life professionals. At CJE we know how important community is to healthy aging, and we are always striving to create that sense of belonging and community, whether in the home, in the neighborhood or in our residential locations.

Laura Prohov Vice President of Community Services CJE SeniorLife is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.

CJE Welcomes

Holocaust

Community Services

By Nicole Bruce

Since 1999, Holocaust Community Services (HCS), a collaboration of Jewish Child and Family Services (JCFS), CJE SeniorLife and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, in partnership with HIAS Chicago, has helped ensure that the Chicago Holocaust survivor community and their families can continue to live independently and to age with dignity.

Holocaust Community Services staff members (left to right): Maya Gumirov, Care Manager; Aubrey Scheffey, Program Support Specialist; and Yonit Hoffman, Program Director.

With the greater potential for survivors to benefit from the many eldercare resources available through CJE SeniorLife’s continuum of care, the administration of HCS transitioned in January from JCFS to CJE. The average age of a survivor is 79, with nearly a quarter 85 or older, so their need for eldercare services is profound. The consequences of advanced aging are compounded by the physical and emotional horrors they endured during the war. As aging and frailty take their toll, the number of Holocaust survivors turning to community agencies has intensified. CJE’s mission to enhance the lives of older adults makes it a perfect fit for Holocaust Community Services. “There’s a major misconception that the needs of the survivor community are dwindling, but in actuality, the reverse is true. HCS received nearly 300 new requests for services in the past year,” said Yonit Hoffman, Ph.D., Holocaust Community Services Program Director. “The complex needs of many survivors in our community— related to their traumatic histories as well as deteriorating physical, social and economic factors—are just beginning to emerge. Our survivor community has also been affected by reductions in public benefits for older adults, so we particularly focus on assisting the neediest and most vulnerable survivors who may not have other means of support.” HCS reaches out to approximately 800 Holocaust survivors and their families annually, offering support groups, socialization programs, and assistance with various Holocaust reparations and compensation programs. About half that number receives ongoing financial help with food, medication, home care or emergency needs.

“There’s a major misconception that the needs of the survivor community are dwindling, but in actuality, the reverse is true. HCS received nearly 300 new requests for services in the past year.”

HCS in the

Community

~ Yonit Hoffman, Ph.D. Holocaust Community Services Program Director

Caring Conversations Support group for family caregivers of Holocaust survivors. Meets first and third Wednesdays 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. CJE | 3003 W. Touhy Rd., Chicago

The transition of HCS to CJE will enable survivors to benefit from CJE’s expertise in counseling, support and referral services for older adults. HCS case managers will also facilitate in-home support, including personal care and housekeeping services, kosher food delivery, and transportation services, and provide training for professionals who work with survivors and their families. CJE will also focus on the strategic development of HCS to address the significant increase in requests for assistance. HCS is supported by social welfare grants from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, Inc., and other generous foundations and donors. Approximately 75% of the total funding is from the Claims Conference, which recently increased its worldwide allocations by 21 percent for 2015, for a total of $365 million for 2015. Though a small portion of this additional funding will be allocated to local agencies, it will be spread across social service organizations serving Jewish Holocaust survivors in 47 countries to provide home care, hunger relief, medical care and transportation. Steve N. Miller, HCS Committee Chair, JUF Board member and longtime leader in Chicago’s Jewish community, believes it’s important to provide for the survivors in our community. “When I learned about the immense needs of the several thousand survivors living in our community, I knew this was a cause I wanted to support,” said Miller. “These people have suffered so much in their lives—it’s imperative that we provide for them and let them age with dignity.” CJE SeniorLife welcomes HCS’s dedicated staff and remains committed to working with Federation and JCFS in the effort to support the program and seek new opportunities for ways to serve more survivors and families. For more information about the supportive resources of Holocaust Community Services at CJE, please call 773.508.1004.

Upcoming Dates: March 4 and 18 April 1 and April 15 May 6 and 20

Coffee and Conversation Ongoing weekly drop-in group for Holocaust survivors. Meets every Monday 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods Dr. | Skokie

Russian Tea Time Ongoing conversation group for Russian-speaking Holocaust survivors. Meets second and fourth Friday 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. 135 N. Arlington Heights Rd. Suite 104 | Buffalo Grove Please call to confirm dates at 773.508.1004.

A Virtual Community of Leaders, Learners and Friends By Mary Keen

The Virtual Senior Center (VSC) is a collaboration of CJE and Selfhelp Community Services in New York to bring interactive web-based classes and a means of socialization through technology to isolated older adults in Chicago communities. In addition to taking part in a variety of discussion groups and classes virtually, participants are also able to learn how to navigate the web and connect to family and friends through email, Skype, Facebook, games, the news, and much more—all from their homes through senior-friendly, touch screen computers. Because social engagement is especially important for older adults, particularly those who depend on remote family members or who are going through life transitions such as the loss of a spouse, the VSC is a welcome conduit of instruction and fellowship for participants. They are able to meet new people and forge friendships—even relationships—all while gaining new skills. Through classes and other activities, the VSC has enabled the creation of an active, engaged online community. The program offers a new means of making friends. “Even if we’re only looking at each other through the computer screen, the friendships, are nice,” says Bonnie a VSC user. “My hope is that this program will expand so many others across the country will have this opportunity.” Currently there are more than 200 participants nationwide and 40 participants from Chicago, and the growth potential is great as more classes are offered and more people sign on. The many VSC classes, including “History Topics,” “Talking Talmud” and “You Be the Judge,” offer ample opportunities

for voicing opinions, debating issues and sharing ideas, and frequent participants get to know each other quite well. Other unstructured conversations are carried on during Open Chats, a regularly scheduled time when folks can just talk with each other. These chats are an excellent forum for following up on things that happen in classes and just sharing the joys and challenges of aging with one another. In Chicago, the VSC served as a catalyst for actual in-person meetings outside of class time: A VSC group organized an outing to a play and then feasted on dinner from the Lakeview kosher restaurant, Milt’s Barbeque for the Perplexed. A group of women also met on the Fourth of July to celebrate the holiday. Bringing people together in person to socialize and attend cultural events is another unexpected outcome of the VSC, strengthening the community even more. The VSC provides a vital intellectual and social lifeline to its participants. It has indeed created a community of older adults who learn together, laugh together and share their experiences.

Open up your world to the enriching and stimulating classes offered by the VSC. If you are an older adult and would like to easily connect, learn and socialize through the VSC, or if you are a caregiver of a family member who might benefit from the VSC, call 773.508.1134 to find out more about it.

Staying Connected:

The Secret to LONGEVITY By Joan Richman Ente, L.C.S.W., C.-A.S.W.C.M. Tens of millions of baby boomers are steaming full-speed ahead toward the newest frontier: longevity. We live in tumultuous, fast moving times, in a world where people are living longer than ever before. A 2012 report from the U.S. Census Bureau revealed a 66% increase in the number of people living past age 100. But does a long life ensure a good life? What can we do to have the best of both worlds? Socialization and a balanced, outer-directed life are the cornerstones of healthy aging. In 2007, research by Dr. Steven Cole of UCLA found that people with strong social connections demonstrate better immunity against disease than their isolated counterparts. Other studies have shown that individuals who are socially active may be less likely to develop cognitive impairment* and that an active social life slows memory loss**. Many aging adults are not as active as they would like to be. They may feel isolated and cut off from the community. For some, declining health and lack of transportation are obstacles to socializing. Those who have lost friends may not want to invest the time in building new relationships. All too easily, quiet and inactivity can become the daily norm. If isolation and deep loneliness become established routine, life can begin to lose meaning and purpose. As care managers in the community, we often help older adults and families consider solutions to the problem of isolation: • Exercise. Walk indoors at your local mall or the hallways in your building, find an outdoor walking group through your local senior center, dance your way through a Zumba Gold class (curriculum specifically designed for aging limbs) or try one of CJE’s “Sit and Get Fit” classes. Specialty exercise programs for Parkinson’s disease and other neuro-motor conditions are offered free of charge at Lieberman Center in Skokie and Weinberg Community in Deerfield. • Volunteer. Put your lifetime’s worth of skills, talent and experience to work for others through volunteering and civic engagement, and you’ll reap unexpected rewards and fulfillment in the process. CJE has a wealth of volunteer opportunities, from

delivering meals to being a “friendly visitor” at one of our communities. • Use your talents. Whether newly-discovered or from the past, stay engaged creatively. Sing in a senior chorus, become a docent at a local museum or art gallery, or take part in the community theater as an usher or on stage as an actor. Or write it out. Tell your story and preserve living history for family members who will follow in your footsteps. • Keep learning. Stay engaged through lectures, discussion groups, literary readings, computer classes and more. There are many adult education programs at little to no cost, and closer to home than one might imagine. You can even connect the virtual way! CJE’s Virtual Senior Center (VSC) can provide a wealth of online, interactive programming and discussion groups. Classes on history, art, literature, Jewish life, health and wellness, and cooking are readily available during the week for participants from all over the country. Use the VSC to connect with friends and family via email or Skype. Our recipe for longevity and quality of life is simple: socialize and exercise! Maintain a sense of purpose and connection to make your long life a life worth living. *American Academy of Neurology, 2009 **Harvard School of Public Health, 2008

The Geriatric Care Managers of Your Eldercare Consultants tap into CJE’s unique continuum of care to advise older adults and families in times of transition. They can plan for maximum independence and quality of life; evaluate safety and risk factors; assist in hiring and managing caregivers; and much more. To find out more, visit www.YourEldercareConsultants.com or call 773.508.1015.

A participant in the “Write for You” creative writing group, peruses Lieberman Center’s first published zine, Anti-Memoir: Perspectives from the Literary Shipyard.

Creating Community Through Writing: Lieberman Center’s First Literary “zine” By Nicole Bruce

Every Monday afternoon for several months, a group of Lieberman Center residents have been coming together for a special mission. Called the “Write for You” group, they’ve been putting their pens to paper as part of a collaborative creative writing process that has produced Lieberman Center’s (and possibly CJE’s) first literary *zine, Anti-Memoir: Perspectives from the Literary Shipyard. Embedded within Lieberman’s Life Enrichment and Creative Arts Program, the “Write for You” group participants already knew that their words had power. But they were surprised by the impact the collective process had on them as individuals. It was a listening and learning process for the entire group that would result in a closeness not often experienced. “When we were talking with each other during the sessions, we were very free. The experience was really exhilarating,” says participant Rubye B. “It has drawn us closer together. I’ve had a chance to know each person as an individual—to know about his or her feelings, concerns, and sense of humor.” Sharing their perspectives through the creation and planning of the zine has been an enriching and uplifting experience for many. “There’s a particularly strong bond among this group because they’re sharing their thoughts and their stories with each other. They’re really getting to know each other in this group,” says Andrea Koch, Manager of Life Enrichment and Creative Arts Therapies, MAAT, LPC, ATR. “To live in a skilled nursing center, you are generally the recipient of care, so to be able to contribute and create something is just really powerful for people.”

Lieberman Center’s (and possibly CJE’s) first literary zine with poetry, prose and artwork created by residents.

*Zines (pronounced “zeens” and shortened from the word “magazines”) are usually small circulation, independent publications that are often reproduced by photocopying.

Lieberman Center’s Creative Arts Therapy (CAT) and Life Enrichment staff know that residents respond well to more active involvement in creative endeavors and self-expression because it acknowledges and respects their strength and intelligence as individuals. “Even if they’ve experienced a lot of losses, they still have so much to give and new skills to learn. People often say, ‘I never knew I could be an artist’ or ‘I never knew I could be a writer,’” says Koch. “I think people feel really validated by the zine. It’s cathartic.” The zine tackles some big issues like loss and abrupt life changes. “Life in a residential skilled nursing center has been a radical change. Being in the writing group made me feel more comfortable with Lieberman Center as a whole. I have gained something. Having

a terminal disease is hard to accept. But you shouldn’t assume that you have lost everything, and the zine shows that,” says Allen R. The writing process itself isn’t easy for all. While it can be challenging for some to find their true literary voices, difficulties with language and physical impairments can initially seem like a deterrent as well. However, these issues are embraced at Lieberman Center. Creative writing naturally opens doors for those who might have trouble with issues as they age. Repetition of certain phrases can be a very useful artistic device in poetry, for example, and those with dexterity issues or eyesight impairment are even able to dictate their words to an art therapist to be transcribed. “I write because I can’t express myself any other way. I think

A participant in the “write for you” creative writing group reviewing his work in the zine.

that all writing is beneficial because you get your thoughts down on paper,” says Ariella B. When the first issue was published, the writers each read a piece of their own work aloud to an audience in Lieberman’s Social Hall. Copies have circulated among various departments, residential floors and to friends and family ever since. “It’s really a chance for people to express their opinions and let people get to know them. I’ll see Resident Assistants on their breaks flipping through it, and they’re learning all of these things that they never knew about the people that they care for on a daily basis,” says Koch. “It’s given them much greater respect and understanding of the people whom they’re caring for.” The zine’s success has inspired others to ask if they can join the group. “I noticed as we went on that people started writing on their own and brought it to the group to share. It seems to have spurred some outside interests,” says Katharine Houpt, Creative Arts Therapist, MAAT, ATR, LCPC. While plans for another issue are in the works, participants of the “Write for You” group are focusing on their participation in an upcoming panel presentation on the creative writing process at the LeadingAge Illinois Annual Meeting and Exhibition on May 1. “They’re excited to be able to tell other skilled nursing center professionals about what an empowering process this is and what a difference having this outlet made for them,” says Koch. To read Anti-Memoir: Perspectives from the Literary Shipyard, visit www.cje.net/ skilled-nursing/lieberman-center-healthrehabilitation.

Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation, conveniently located near Old Orchard Mall, has a multitude of life-enriching activities, including an active Creative Arts Therapy Program and a Parkinson’s on the Move exercise program including two new classes for person’s with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers. For information about Lieberman Center call 847.929.3320.

An exercise class at Robineau, one of the many planned activities for residents.

Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood in Skokie, CJE’s Robineau Residence is designed to foster social interaction among 24 older adults living independently. Since 1982, the intimate ranch-style group home has provided a unique community for residents ranging in age from 58 to 104, revealing a special portrayal of senior living today. “The architecture supports social interaction. Robineau was designed at a time before there were many senior homes. People have many choices now, but this is still an incredible model. It’s communal living with great programming,” says Dorothy Levant, Manager of Robineau Residence. “I’ve seen residents do really well here because they’re in a healthy atmosphere. There’s loads of social interaction, which is critical to an older person.”

Robineau Residence A Unique and Thriving Community

Social by Design

The thriving, single floor community has an arrangement of six suites with four private bedrooms and baths around living rooms with kitchens—a perfect arrangement to encourage socializing among its residents, who enjoy group activities, meals, transportation, excursions and 24-hour staff. In fact, a resident once likened his apartment to a cabin on a cruise ship. “There are a lot of opportunities to interact with other residents or to simply close your door and have your privacy, so it’s the best of both worlds living here. People don’t have to worry about elevators or stairs, and they are always being cared for as part of the Robineau community in a very wonderful way,” says Levant. “People are constantly checking in on each other to see how they’re doing, if they want to come to a meal or program, or simply just to chat.”

By Nicole Bruce

“On our first date, I took her for a hair cut. We both needed a hair cut! So I took her over to the barber shop on the corner. We do that every two months now. It’s still a date.” ~ Robert

Robineau is a family for me and I enjoy it. My mom would say, “Stay with your friends.” ~ Scott

One resident, Emma R., talks about the recent passing of a dining room companion: “We became very good friends. Sometimes I think about her sitting on the other side of me like she always did. She would make us all just laugh. We all felt so terrible when she died because we lost a friend. Everybody liked her at the table. Of course, I don’t know anybody here that I dislike.” While physically very similar to a college dorm living set-up, the atmosphere is also collegial in that residents are provided with many life enriching opportunities. “We have a lot of people who come here to teach and inspire the residents on how to tap into their hidden talents. That’s one of the ingredients that makes Robineau unique,” says Levant. “We do our best to help them reach their potential at this stage in their lives. I’ve seen residents who are depressed and withdrawn transform into people who are open to falling in love again.” People quickly become part of the community because of the activities, such as musical presentations, book reviews, games, discussion groups of all kinds, and exercise classes. There’s even

an in-house newspaper, which is edited by the residents. Since the manager’s office is right in the middle of the building and the door is always open, “People’s needs are addressed right away. It’s really more like a family than just an apartment building,” says Levant. Activities occur in rooms all around the building. Residents are particularly fond of the community’s thriving greenhouse, where they are able to nurture their own plants, even tending to some that were left behind many years ago. “When new residents move in they bring their plants, and that’s how our garden grows. Some residents are very skilled at gardening, so we have beautiful plants in our greenhouse,” says Levant. “One of our 20-year-old plants was left by a former resident so in a way, her spirit lives on at Robineau.”

A Youthful Spirit

CJE’s other independent, subsidized housing buildings require that at least one occupant be a minimum of 62 years old. However, Robineau Residence has welcomed younger applicants (ages 55 or older) to apply since a waiver was granted by the U.S. Department

Robineau Residence: A Unique and Thriving Community

A student from Bayit Afterschool in Evanston paints a pot for planting seeds with a Robineau resident.

of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in 2011. They must still qualify for subsidized housing under the provisions of HUD’s Section 8 program, but it has positively affected the community’s energy. Not long ago, Robineau was home to seniors primarily in their 80s and 90s. Now the social atmosphere is livelier. “As a result of having younger residents, we became a baby boomer senior home. The kinds of programs that we are offering are different than the programs that we offered years ago. Dances and social activities are designed to get residents moving,” says Levant. Diverse in gender, race and ethnicity, the demographic composition of Robineau is unusual for a senior living facility of only

24 residents. “We have so many different tastes that we keep everyone happy by having a little of everything,” Levant says. “The younger residents learn so much from the older ones. They, in turn, really embrace the younger ones.” Intergenerational programs also help infuse a youthful spirit into the mix as well. Kids from neighboring schools and daycare programs, such as Bayit Afterschool, a Jewish educational program in Evanston, visit the residents for a variety of activities. On a recent snowy day, the students and residents planted seeds in pots for the greenhouse and residents’ rooms to bring in the spirit of spring for Tu B’Shevat. Children from Tiny Tot Preschool, conveniently located across the street,

“I’ve traveled to Europe, Mexico, California, Eastern United States, but Robineau is my favorite place to be at this stage in my life. What’s special about being here is that you’re surrounded with people your own age.” ~ Ethel

Want to hear more about life at Robineau? Experience it through videos featuring residents and staff by visiting CJE’s website and YouTube channel. “I’ve had my share of life. I’ve raised 11 children. I am the oldest living relative in the family on both sides...I made it to 100. When I had my 100th birthday last year, Robineau had a big party for me. I do have a lot of friends and relatives...the place was overrunning with people!” ~ Emma

draw, play games and sing songs with the residents. “Everyone feels young again being with the children,” says Levant.

Caring Staff and Volunteers

Part of what makes Robineau a successful living environment is not only the residence’s inhabitants, but also its dedicated staff and volunteers. “The entire staff enjoys working here, and that gets passed on to the residents,” says Levant. “I look forward to coming to work every day because the residents are like an extended family.” Additionally, there is a regular group of 24 volunteers at Robineau. With 24 residents, that’s an outstanding 1:1 ratio, a testament to CJE’s commitment to person-centered care. Rita Pomerance, a long-time Robineau volunteer, and her husband Allen sponsor Robineau’s themed Super Supper events, in which residents are treated to a speciallyprepared cuisine by Morrison Senior Dining’s chefs once a month. “Our dining room is transformed into the Ritz Carlton,” says Levant. “Our last dinner was a little taste of everything from around the world. We called it ‘Diversity Dinner’ on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and everyone loved it.” It’s not unusual for family members of residents to remain connected to Robineau, even after their mother or father has passed. The daughters of

a resident continue to donate on behalf of their mother to support life enrichment programs for other residents. The son of another resident has been volunteering monthly, along with other members of his synagogue, for more than 13 years because his mother loved every day that she lived at Robineau.

Celebrating Life

Robineau brings out the best in people because the community is particularly conscious of supporting life’s events. They’ll welcome every new resident, celebrate all birthdays, and honor residents through memorial services, giving other residents a chance to remember their friends in a special way. Their bond is strengthened because they celebrate the ups and downs of life together. “When I came here, I was 100 years old. When you’re older, you’re alone. I have people to talk to and to be with and do things with. This is my home. It’s a wonderful place to be,” says resident Ethel W. As we age, finding a place we can call home and people we consider family is ever-evolving and can be challenging. But if home is where the heart is and family is what you make it, then Robineau is brimming with both. * Levy House, an affordable apartment building, also requires the head of the household to be at least 55 years of age.

Endowment for the Mind, Body and Soul

By Carole Klein-Alexander

My mother had a tender spot in her heart for the elderly.

And that is why David Sherman has chosen to honor his mother, Diane Sherman, of blessed memory, by creating The Susan and David Sherman Family Endowment Fund for the Diane Sherman Welcome Shabbat—Lunch and Learn Program at CJE SeniorLife. Though Mrs. Sherman passed away in 2011 at 84 years old, many people at CJE still recall her endearing smile and heartfelt compassion for older adults who were isolated, hungry or just in need of a caring touch. Like her mother and father, Mrs. Sherman began working with the elderly at BMZ—Jewish Home for the Aged, which merged with CJE in 1971. By 1979, she had earned CJE’s Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award for her loving assistance at CJE’s Shabbat Luncheon program and annual community Seder at Temple Emanuel, where Mrs. Sherman cooked and served warm meals to hundreds of older Jews, many from the Former Soviet Union. Her son, David, recalls taking on the job of Shalom Bus liaison, while he was in college, to make sure people could get to the Seders. In a recent conversation, he added gently, “My mother was an elegant, unassuming and tireless volunteer. Along with my dad (Leonard Sherman), they shared a love of philanthropy.” Diane and Leonard Sherman’s greatest legacy is the sense of responsibility to one’s community that David and his wife Susan are now instilling in their five children. As a family, they support many various causes from medical research to the World Wildlife Fund to Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo and, above all, Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. David’s dedication to the Jewish community is deeply rooted, evidenced by his youthful commitment to work alongside his mother at CJE, enriching the lives of the elderly, as well as his enduring involvement as a distinguished lay leader at JUF/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. The endowed Diane Sherman Welcome Shabbat—Lunch and Learn Program, launched by CJE in 2013, has been a huge success that provides a special occasion for seniors to enjoy a

few hours of lively conversation and, of course, a warm meal that would make Diane Sherman proud. The room is usually filled with 40-50 community members who make a reservation to attend. Unbeknownst to many attendees, David often makes an “undercover” appearance as a volunteer, dishing up and serving lunch just like his mother loved to do. A quarterly event, the Shabbat Lunch and Learn has featured renowned speakers such as: Sue Lewis, an educator and lecturer on Jewish culture; Betsy Dolgin Katz, who explored what happened in the Garden of Eden; Rabbi Barry Schechter, with an entertaining examination of Yiddish and Laughter; and Dr. Elana Ashley, presenting a dramatic mixed-media program combining original art, writings, and songs. According to Gerri Fiterman Persin, Manager of CJE’s Center for Healthy Living, “It is so heartwarming to see a roomful of older adults, who may otherwise be alone, enjoying Shabbat together, acquiring fresh knowledge on Jewish-themed topics and making new friends. Of course, we also get rave reviews about the hot lunch. Basically, we provide nourishment for the mind, body and soul!” Without a doubt, Diane Sherman would be delighted to see how her family has chosen to share her commitment to tikkun olam, honor her “tender spot for the elderly,” and sustain her legacy of love. David Sherman is Chairman of Sherman Residential, a family-owned real estate firm that focuses on apartment ownership and management around the United States, and former Board Chair of Jewish Federation. He is an avid runner, golfer and reader. A devoted father and bedtime storyteller, he has also authored two children’s books: Precious Penelope in the Kingdom of Very Large Castles, about a young girl who comes to appreciate her own life, and Findley the Funnel, the story of a little boy who is never satisfied with what he has. By helping others, Findley learns how to not feel so empty inside.

Inside CJE

National s Local s Appointments APPOINTMENTS

Congrats to our 2014 Employees of the Year:

President and CEO Mark D. Weiner was elected to the University of Buffalo Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Eva Albano, Billing and Collections Lead, Finance Department

Andrew Weisman, CHL’s Wellness Coordinator, recently assumed the role of Communications Director of The Chicago Bridge, a grassroots organization for professionals in the field of aging. Nicole Bruce, CJE’s Senior Digital Marketing Specialist, was named to the Public Relations Task Force of LeadingAge Illinois, providing her expertise on communicating stories of older adult care and services to consumers, media and legislators.

Sharon Ramirez, Resource Specialist II, Consumer Assistance/Entry

NATIONAL AWARDS

Darren Musat, Food Production Manager at Lieberman Center (shown below), was named Mashgiach of the Year, awarded by Kashrus Magazine.

Basil Smith, Environmental Services Worker, Lieberman Center.

Show-Stopper

Weinberg Community staffer Michelle Bernstein’s two daughters, Ariella (left) and Marisa show off Cubbie’s “Best in Show” award at the recent Lieber-minster dog show. CJE SeniorLife received a 2015 Jewish Programming Award from the Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS). It recognizes InStep Together, the long-standing program that brings together Weinberg Community residents with volunteers from the Chicagoland Jewish High School.

GRANT NEWS

Consumer Assistance received a $5,000 grant from the Skokie Community Fund to support expanded benefits and counseling sessions for 250 older adults in 2015 at both Skokie Public Library and the Village of Skokie Smith Center. The Center for Healthy Living (CHL) received a $5,000 grant from CVS Health’s Community Grant Award Program. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations that are committed to building healthier communities, and support programs that improve access to health care for underserved populations and chronic disease management. The CHL will offer two free arthritis management series in April, thanks to this grant. Adult Day Services at Weinberg Community for Senior Living received a $25,000 grant from the Healthcare Foundation of Highland Park for Creative Arts programming.

Gerri Fiterman Persin (left) and Stacy Gordon recently graduated from the LeadingAge Leadership Academy.

Community Calendar Events s Classes & Series s Programs s Support Groups

March 5 Finding Your Purpose & Passion. Sips on Sherman at 1741 Sherman Ave., Evanston. From 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25.00. To register call 847.644.1779 or go online to www.midlifeventures.org. 10 The Chicago Jewish Play Reading Festival. 1-4:00 p.m. Temple Sholom. 3480 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago. Tickets at 800.838.3006. 12 Linkages: Understanding the Surrogate Decision Makers. Attorney Janna Dutton discusses Powers of Attorney for Healthcare and Property, the Healthcare Surrogate Act, Mental Health Preference Treatment Declaration Act, and Guardianships. 10:30.a.m.–Noon. 773.508.1694. H 18 Aging’s Uncharted Waters: Finding Your Way through the Unexpected. Brookdale Lake Shore Drive. 2960 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago. 11:30 lunch. 12-1:00 p.m. presentation. RSVP to 773.880.6209. 18 Taste of Passover. From 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Call 847.236.7852 to RSVP to or email Michelle.Bernstein@cje.net. W

April 13 Blood Pressure Screening. Malibu. 6007 N. Sheridan Rd. 3–4:00 p.m. Free.

19 Health Fair. Temple Judea Mizpah, 8610 Niles Center Road, Skokie. 9 a.m.–Noon. Free. 19 Living Well with Parkinson’s Disease. With Michael Rezak, PhD, MD. Registration 10:30 a.m. Luncheon program. RSVP to 847.236.7852. 28 Linkages: Karaoke Night for Adults with Disabilities and Their Families. Social gathering with pizza, music, photo booth, raffle prizes and lots of fun. JCFS Joy Faith Knapp Center. 3145 W. Pratt Blvd. 6:30-8:30 p.m. 773.508.1694. H

May

(English only) 9:30 a.m. – Noon For appointments: Kathy Gaeding at 773.508.1054

Call 773.508.4923 for information. $60 for four sessions at 2 locations: April 15, 22, 29 & May 6 1–2:00 p.m. W

May 20, 27 & June 3, 10 7–8:00 p.m. H

PARKINSON’S AT LIEBERMAN CENTER

Call 847.929.3022 for information. Parkinson’s On the Move

7 Linkages: Using Accessible Public Transportation. Kristen Salkas, RTA Travel

Thursdays: March 12–June 18. No class: Mar. 19, Apr. 9, Apr. 16. 7-8:00 p.m. L

Trainer. Topics include benefits of accessible features offered on CTA, Pace, Metra. Registration required. 10:30 a.m.-Noon. 773.508.1694. H 8 17th Annual Evanston Aging Well Conference. The Merion. 1611 Chicago Ave., Evanston. 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Free. Register at www.cityofevanston. org/senior-services.

Tai Chi

Dance/Movement Class

Wednesdays: March 11–June 3. No class Apr. 8. 11–11:45 a.m. L Artistic Journey

Art Therapy Group. Wednesdays 1:30–3:00 p.m. L

PARKINSON’S AT WEINBERG COMMUNITY Parkinson’s On the Move | Ongoing

Exercise Class. Wednesdays & Fridays: 847.236.7852. 1–2:00 p.m. W

Village of Skokie Smith Center Office of Human Services 5120 Galitz St. Every Tuesday | 9:00 a.m. – Noon For appointments: 847.933.8208

ARTHRITIS CLASSES North Take Charge of Your Arthritis: Thursdays,

April 23–May 28. 12:30–3:00 p.m. Free. Registration required: 847.724.4793.

Downtown Chicago Exercise: Tuesdays, March 3–April 21.

4th Presbyterian Church, 126 East Chestnut St. 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Registration and fees apply. RSVP to 312.981.3387. Roger’s Park Take Charge of Your Arthritis: Tuesdays,

April 21–May 26. 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Free. Registration required: 773.508.1073. H

s Fourth Wednesday of Every Month

CONQUER YOUR CLUTTER

Exercise Class. Tuesdays & Thursdays: Feb. 3–April 9 & April 28–July 2. 1–2:00 p.m. L

Receive help with benefits, referrals and more from CJE’s SHIP-certifed Resource Specialists. Assistance is now available in Skokie to help connect older adults with the programs and services they need. Appointments preferred but walk-ins welcome.

s Third Wednesday of Every Month

Classes & Series

6 Aging Well Film Festival. Evanston Public Library. 1703 Orrington Ave. Evanston. 7:00 p.m. Free. Register at www. cityofevanston.org/senior-services.

Consumer Assistance Expands in Skokie

Skokie Public Library 5215 Oakton St.

11 Blood Pressure Screening. Malibu. 6007 N. Sheridan Rd. 3–4:00 p.m. Free.

(Russian & English) 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For appointments: Irina Polishchuk at 773.508.1328

CJE SeniorLife offers ongoing support groups and programs, which are subject to change. All programs are free unless indicated. Some fees may be partially covered by Medicare or private insurance. S U P P O RT G RO U P S Living Life Through Loss: Bereavement Support Group

Family Caregiver Group

Sponsored by CJE SeniorLife and Jewish Healing Network. $5 per session. Registration required, RSVP at 773.508.1129. Wednesdays. 1–2:00 p.m. H

Making Connections: Seniors with Adult Children with Disabilities Connect, share experiences and learn about benefits and community resources. Sponsored by CJE’s Linkages program. Register at 773.508.1694. 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. H

Parkinson’s Caregivers Support Group A support group for caregivers of someone with Parkinson’s. Registration required. Third Wednesday of the month. 1–2:00 p.m. Call Nina Afremow, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., at 847.236.7853 for information. W

Led by Jo Hammerman, L.C.S.W. Call 847.929.3246. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. 2nd Floor Classroom. 5–6:00 p.m. L

Holocaust Survivors Coffee & Conversation sponsored by CJE SeniorLife and Jewish Child and Family Services. Mondays, 1:30– 3:00 p.m. 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie. Register at 773.508.1004.

Family Caregivers of CJE Adult Day Services Clients Led by Dina Danieli M.S.W. Emotional support, information, education and coping strategies. Pre-registration required for loved one to participate in CJE’s Adult Day programs. Register at 847.556.8410. Second Tuesday of every month. 3:15–4:30 p.m. A

Family Caregivers of Adult Day Services-North Clients Led by Emily Mysel, MSW, LCSW. First Tuesday of month. 2–3:00 p.m. Call 847.236.7863. W

Individuals Caring for Someone with Dementia Led by Nina Afremow, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., and Emily Mysel, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. First Wednesday of every month, 7–8:30 p.m. For more info call 847.236.7853. W

Caring Conversations A Support Group for Adult Children of Holocaust Survivors who are caring for an aging parent. Led by Amy Loterstein, L.S.W., A.S.W.-G. and Yonit Hoffman, Ph.D. Presented by Holocaust Community Services. 3–4:30 pm. Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays (please call to confirm dates). Call 773.508.1004.

P RO G RA M S The Lakeshore Mercaz Center for Jewish Older Adults Cultural programs sponsored by CJE, Anshe Emet, Anshe Sholom, Emanuel Congregation and Temple Sholom. Call 773.508.1073. Mercaz Program

Tuesday, March 10 from 1–4:00 p.m. Temple Sholom 3480 N Lake Shore Dr., Chicago

Mercaz Program

Tuesday, May 12 from 1–2:15 p.m. Anshe Sholom Bnai Israel 540 W Melrose St., Chicago

Community Senior Adults

Lunch, socializing and entertainment. Contact 773.508.1047. Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. L

Older Adult Programs Call 773.508.1000 for schedule. Programs take place at Bernard Horwich Building. Music with Les. Mondays Sit and Get Fit. Mondays Yoga. Wednesdays Scrabble Club. Wednesdays Schmooze It or Lose It. Thursdays Sit and Get Fit. Thursdays

LOCATION KEY A

Adult Day Services

1015 West Howard Street, Evanston 847.492.1400

Bernard Horwich Building

3003 West Touhy Avenue, Chicago 773.508.1000

Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation

9700 Gross Point Road, Skokie 847.929.3320

Holiday Closings

Weinberg Community for Senior Living

Passover April 10 Shavuot and Memorial Day May 25

1551 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield 847.374.0500

Communities and Passover By Rabbi Michael J. Schorin, BCC I would like to begin with the sentiments of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., expressed during a commencement address at Oberlin College: “In a real sense, all life is interrelated. All people are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” That “single garment of destiny” binds us all together—Jews and people of other faiths, the affluent and the poor, men and women. This “single garment” is especially tightly woven in the Jewish world. When a kosher supermarket is terrorized, we all bleed. When the I.D.F. (the Israeli Defense Forces) fights terrorism in Gaza, we are all tense, waiting for the hostilities to cease. And when good news comes upon us, we all “kvell” with pride. We are one people and one community. Maybe this is most easily witnessed at the Passover Seder. We come together with parents, spouses, children and grandchildren, friends, people from our synagogue or temple, or even

CJE SeniorLife wishes you a

strangers we just met. And before we call upon the youngest to ask the Four Questions, we recite a prayer called “Ha Lachma Anya” that reads: “This is the bread of affliction which our ancestors ate in the land of Egypt. All who are hungry—let them come and eat. All who are needy—let them come and celebrate the Passover with us. Now we are here; next year may we be in the Land of Israel. Now we are slaves; next year may we be free.” When Pharaoh asks who will be going to worship, Moses replies, “We will all go, young and old, we will go with our sons and daughters, our flocks and herds…” (Exodus 10:9). Like Martin Luther King’s statement, Moses tells Pharaoh that we are all a “single garment.” May you be blessed to celebrate this Passover with friends, family and your CJE community. Amen.

Lieberman Center for Heart Health Committed to Excellence in Cardiac Care Our low rehospitalization rates prove it!

n a beautifully-appointed wing of the Haag Pavilion, the Center for Heart Health features private rooms with advanced heart health technology. Following a hospital stay, the Lieberman Center for Heart Health provides individuals with a multi-disciplinary rehabilitation program. Directed by a board-certified Cardiologist and supported by an on-site Advanced Nurse Practitioner, we will: • Monitor your symptoms. • Address your special nutritional needs. • Administer complex medications. • Provide the tools to help you manage your heart health at home. Our primary goal is to give cardiac patients the vital physical, emotional and psychological skills they need to make a successful transition from hospital to home and to avoid rehospitalization.

Call 847.929.3320 for more information on how Lieberman Center for Heart Health can help manage your successful transition from a hospital stay to home.

Visit us online at: www.cje.net/CenterForHeartHealth

Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation 9700 Gross Point Road | Skokie, Illinois 60076 | www.cje.net Located near Old Orchard. CJE SeniorLife™ is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.

Outstanding Outcomes! After 72 hours, no patients had to be rehospitalized.* After 30 days, only 1% of our patients had to be rehospitalized.* *Rehospitalizations caused by cardiac issues through June 2014.

Accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for Medical Rehabilitation and Person Centered Care.

812.1.2015

Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Chicago, IL Permit No. 1710

3003 West Touhy Avenue | Chicago IL 60645 773.508.1000 | www.cje.net | lifemag@cje.net

CJE SeniorLife™ is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.

Let CJE SeniorLife do your Passover Cooking Try our Delicious Kosher Catering. Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation cRc Glatt Orders must be placed by March 25 Food may be picked up: April 2 between 1 – 3:00 p.m. To place an order, please call 847.929.3200 Address: 9700 Gross Point Road | Skokie, IL

Weinberg Community for Senior Living Menu is Rabbinically Supervised Orders must be placed by Friday, March 27 Food may be picked up: Friday, April 3 between 2 – 3:30 p.m. To place an order, please call 847.236.7859 Address: 1551 Lake Cook Road | Deerfield, IL

For our complete Passover Catering menus, go to: cje.net/KosherCatering

CJE SeniorLife™ is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/ Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.