2009 - 07 Senior Outlook - Larchmont Chronicle

Senior Outlook LARCHMONT CHRONICLE

PHYSICIAN Dr. Charles Witt still makes "home calls."

HONORING veterans.

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STILL dancing.

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JULY 2009

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Photo by Andrew Taylor - taopro.com

GET in shape.

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

JULY 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

Regular eye exam best defense against Glaucoma

ATTORNEYS, judges and law students make up the L.A. Lawyers Philharmonic orchestra.

Lawyers Phil to play at Wilshire Church Works by Mozart to Sousa will be played by the Los Angeles Lawyers Philharmonic on Sun., July 12 at 7 p.m. at Wilshire United Methodist Church, 4350 Wilshire Blvd.

Actress June Lockhart will emcee the program, which will be under the baton of attorney and founder Gary S. Greene, Esq. The concert will include Mozart’s “Il Seraglio Overture,” Gould’s “American Salute,” Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess,”

MLeigh’s “Man of La Mancha,” and Sousa’s “Stars & Stripes Forever.”

Tickets are $10. Send a check made payable to WUMC with a self-addressed stamped envelope to P.O. Box 2001, Burbank, CA 91507 and tickets will be mailed to you. For more information, please call 818-845-4048 or send an email to info@lalawyersphil.org.

Billed as the only legal orchestra in the city, the Lawyers Phil is where prosecutors, de-

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Before: When teeth are missing, the bone which previously supported the teeth melts away, or resorbs. The result of this deterioration is facial structure collapse and visible aging.

lost, usually beginning in the side, or peripheral vision. The concern with glaucoma is that without symptoms, vision loss can occur before an individual notices any changes in vision.

If you or a loved one have not had a comprehensive eye exam in over a year, make an appointment with your eye care professional today. It could be the most important appointment you put on your calendar.

For more information, please visit www.aoa.org.

You can help create a clean air future for L.A.

Improve your luck at poker

Learn to improve your good luck and other poker skills with George “The Engineer” Epstein on Sat., July 11 from 1 to 5 p.m. at West Los Angeles College. Call 310-287-4475.

A seven-week Poker Lab with Epstein begins Fri., July 17 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Claude Pepper Senior Citizen Center, 1762 S. La Cienega Blvd. Epstein, a local resident and author of two poker books, will discuss hand analysis, counting your real “out,” stealing on the flip and understanding the odds. Call 323-938-7023.

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fense attorneys, civil trial, entertainment, corporation, real estate, personal injury and probate lawyers, judges and law students meet in harmony, says Greene.

Orchestra members include Juilliard graduates, professional musicians and hobbyists who are dusting off instruments they played in their youth.

Glaucoma affects the eyes gradually and usually without pain. Because the disease has no warning signs or symptoms, the American Optometric Association recommends scheduling regular, comprehensive eye exams as the best defense against this visionthreatening disease.

The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve cells begin to degenerate. As the cells die, vision is slowly

We’re California’s most selective in-home senior care agency. If you’re struggling to balance your busy life with caring for elderly parents, call us for help: • Caring companionship and assistance with meals, walks, housekeeping, bathing, grooming and daily tasks • Driving to medical appointments, medication reminders • Outings, activities and mental engagement (ask us about special help for dementia/Alzheimer’s patients) • Compassionate care and support from 4 to 24 hours a day Caregiving isn’t a job for us; it’s our passion. We hire fewer than 1 in 15 of the caregivers we interview. We conduct rigorous screening and background checks, and we specialize in matching each senior with the ideal caregiver.

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

Larchmont Chronicle

JULY 2009

ing and needed to get better, and the only way to do it is with Buddy,” commented Jhil McEntyre, a class member who was featured in a Coke commercial during this year’s Academy Awards presentation.

“An agent suggested I take his class and it’s been invaluable, When you audition, you’re only with two or three people, in class you’re in front of 30 or 40. If you don’t get over stage fright here, you don’t ever get over it.”

Added Fran Phillips, “The biggest thing I’ve learned in the class is confidence. It’s a wonderful group of people—

bright, warm and encouraging.”

Their hard work is paying off. Professional commercial agents not only recommend Powell’s class to actors but also periodically visit the class to observe, support and at times, hand out a business card or two for possible representation.

The class is sponsored by the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Division of Adult and Career Education, and the next session begins on Mon., July 6 and continuing through January 2010. Enrollment is open and students may join at

any time during the session.

Classes are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hollywood Senior Multipurpose Center at 1370 N. St. Andrews Place and on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Hollywood Adult School, Sunset Blvd and Highland Ave. Registration is free for seniors 62 and older with a $12 materials fee. Younger adults are welcome, but require a $25 registration fee. Call 818- 7638081 or e-mail powell46761@ roadrunner.com for more information.

STUDENTS GET real life experience auditioning for roles by emoting in front of an audience while the camera runs.

Acting class for older adults often results in new careers

By Marina Muhlfriedel Contributing Writer While many people their age are thinking about winding down their professional lives, most of the students in Buddy Powell’s Commercial Acting for Older Adults classes are serious about developing their acting careers —and many are finding success working in commercials in film and television. In the last month alone, class members were cast in “Entourage,” “General Hospital” and in a Lenny Kravitz video.

Powell, a couple of decades younger than most his stu-

Elderly, caregiver services offered

Activity programs, care management, counseling, advocacy, support groups and other services for older adults and their caregivers in the Beverly-Fairfax community can be found at the Freda Mohr Multipurpose Senior Center, 330 N. Fairfax Ave. The center's storefront location provides a gathering place for the elderly. For those who are homebound, services can be provided in home or by phone. For more information call 323-937-5900.

dents, is an upbeat, dynamic teacher and a 30-year veteran actor. He is invigorated by his craft and by sharing it with groups of students who attend his popular classes on an ongoing basis. Students thrive in the convivial atmosphere as they gain expertise in every aspect of the commercial process, from how casting and ad agencies function, to the best way to present themselves as professionals with industrystandard headshots and resumes.

The crux of the class however, is about performance.

Each week, the aspiring actors read commercial scripts on camera, as they would during an actual audition. Powell gently coaches each of his students beyond any shyness or awkwardness, while helping them to project their unique character personality.

Later, Powell reviews the tapes with the class, constructively analyzing each performance. There is tremendous camaraderie in the group as they support each other’s efforts to interpret the commercial copy while relating to the camera.

“I joined the class about five years ago; I was audition-

Close to everything.

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

JULY 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

Medicine, music, genealogy keep Dr. Witt young at heart dent of George Washington’s family, and he is very active in historical societies. He is past president of the National Society of Washington Family Descendants, and also was president of the Sons of the Revolution in the State of

California.

His patients relish his devotion to his work. Former actress Carla Laemmle credits Dr. Witt for helping her remain healthy and active at age 99. She commented, in a recent Good Samaritan Hospital

Seniors, Come live with our family

Dr. Charles Witt

played the violin. He began piano lessons when he was five growing up in Knoxville, Tenn.

As a youngster, he earned money playing for a circus when it came to town. While serving in Korea, he directed the choir and he has also been a church organist.

A former member of the the Los Angeles Doctors Symphony, his previous home in Windsor Square had two grand pianos in the living room, the scene of many concerts and parties.

The home is also where the Witts raised their three children. Daughter Alex Witt is a news anchor in New York on MSNBC. Charles is an assistant dean at Memphis University School of Law. Walter, an international transportation executive, lives in Paris. The Witts have seven grandchildren.

The doctor is a descen-

Actually, it’s more like a second family at Bethany Towers; full service apartment living for seniors who still want to feel a measure of self-respect and individuality. Bethany Towers offers all that and more. Beautiful 1 or 2 bedroom, single or bachelor apartments with medical and nursing assistance, as well as full dining facilities are available to you form $1395 or $2995 a month.

Come by or phone and talk with our director, Nancy J. Brown. Bethany Towers is on Gramercy Place at the foot of the Hollywood Hills. We are a non-profit, non-sectarian apartment community. We are family.

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Booklets cover fraud protection

A “Fraud Protection for Seniors” packet of publications is available from the Federal Citizen Information Center and the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

One of the booklets, “Fighting Fraud 101—Smart Tips for Older Investors,” gives tips on protecting investments by including the list of tactics commonly used by fraud companies. Another booklet outlines how to choose an investment advisor and how to rectify broker-related problems.

To get the package, call 888878-3256 or visit www.pueblo. gsa.gov.

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A physician for almost 60 years, Dr. Charles Witt is noted for making house calls.

“But I call those visits ‘home calls,’” says the Hancock Park resident. “I think it sounds nicer.”

One of those home calls is on Gertrude Baines, who, at 115, may be the oldest person in the world.

“Gertrude came to my office on Larchmont Blvd. 20 years ago to have a tumor removed, and I have been her doctor ever since.”

He sees her now at the convalescent home where she resides. “She is still sharp as a tack,” comments Witt.

We interviewed Dr. Witt on the day of his wedding anniversary. He was a resident at White Memorial Hospital when he married Collette Beach 53 years ago. She was secretary to the chairman of the pathology department at the Los Angeles hospital.

The doctor entered the University of Tennessee Medical School, graduating at the age of 22. In 1953, he was drafted into the U.S. Army Medical Corps, but instead, decided to accept a commission from the Army as a first lieutenant. He was the youngest physician serving during the Korean War. He opened his practice at UCLA Harbor General Hospital in 1961 as a general and thoracic surgeon.

He has been chairman of the general surgery department at Orthopedic Hospital, and was elected a member of the Los Angeles Surgical Society and Society of Thoracic Surgeons in 1966.

Since 1961, the doctor has been on the staff at Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center, and served as chairman of the department of surgery as well as on the board of directors.

In 1992, he was chosen as the hospital’s Physician of the Year. He also serves on the staff of Good Samaritan Hospital.

Although he no longer performs surgery, he assists other doctors: ‘I’m busier than ever,” he admits.

Witt’s lifelong love of music can be attributed to his parents. His grandfather composed music, his mother was a singer, and his father, a lawyer,

newsletter, “He’s been treating me for more than 35 years. I appreciate the fact that he takes time to talk with patients and even makes house calls.”

His personal recipe for keeping young? “I don’t drink, I don’t smoke and I do moderate exercise. And I trust in the Lord.”

Dining Centers

ALSC - Parsons Hall 1360 North St. Andrews Pl. (323) 574-7697

Las Palmas Senior Center 1820 North Las Palmas (323) 465-7787

Atwater Park Baptist Church 3370 Perlita Ave. (323) 664-6847

American Lithuanian National Center 3356 Glendale Blvd. (323) 533-3179

Chevy Chase Rec. Center 4165 Chevy Chase Ave. (323) 574-7694

Griffith Park Adult Community Center 3201 Riverside Dr. (323) 422-5282

Braille Institute 741 N. Vermont Ave. (323) 707-0663

Dining Centers are open to all seniors who are age 60 and over.

1360 North St. Andrews Place • (323) 957-3900 • hsmpc.com Assistance League of Southern California • (323) 469-1973 • assistanceleague.net

SENIOR OUTLOOK

Larchmont Chronicle

JULY 2009

Veterans' stories collected

BELMONT’S SALUTE

War veterans are encouraged to tell their stories as part of an oral history project by area resident David Meyer O’Shea on two Saturdays in July and August at the Los Angeles Public Library, Central Library Branch, 630 W. 5th St. O’Shea began participat-

ing in the national Veterans History Project at the 54th reunion of the 95th infantry in Baton Rouge in 2004. It was a memorial to his father, Earl D. Meyer, who was a radioman in the infantry.

The interviews will be on July 11 and 25 and August 8

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and 15. For more information call David Meyer O’Shea at 323-469-9774.

The collection is housed at the Library of Congress.

To date more than 40,000 submissions have been received. The local project is sponsored in part by the American Legion’s Hollywood Post #43.

HEROES. Tom Sanders photographed World War II veterans at Belmont Village Hollywood in a new project called “American Heroes: Portraits of Service,” commissioned by Belmont. The exhibit opens on Sat., July 4 at the retirement home, 2051 N. Highland Ave. Shown here is Ivan Netter, former Army Buck Sergeant, Quartermaster Corps.

Volunteer group improves lives of returning veterans Program to reward young people who volunteer.

Volunteers play a number of roles; they work in hospital wards, at nursing homes and pharmacies, and in veterans outreach centers. Some serve as drivers who bring patients to and from medical appointments. Some participate in recreational activities, birthdays or holiday events. And some simply visit with veterans, helping improve their overall quality of life.

You can donate time, money and even a car to help veterans. In fact, over 500,000 people have made a vehicle donation to the MOPH since the inception of the program.

For more information on the MOPH VAVS program or to join in our other volunteer efforts, visit purpleheart.org.

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Veterans are volunteering to assist other veterans to receive the benefits they have earned.

Approximately 140,000 volunteers annually give more than 13 million hours in service to veterans through the Veterans Affairs (VA) system.

Last year, close to 700 volunteers from the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) donated some 83,000 hours at 97 medical facilities providing assistance to other veterans.

Its Ladies Auxiliary donated an additional 18,000 hours to the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) program.

Jeff Roy, the group’s National Commander, intends to increase his organization’s role even further. He’s set a goal of boosting its volunteer hours by 15 percent and has helped develop a Youth Scholarship

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

JULY 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

OASIS offers cardio, karate, Polynesian dance, strength training Polynesian dance, karate classes and talks about operas and the movies are among offerings at OASIS. The educational organization for mature adults hosts classes at Macy’s Westside Pavilion, 10730 W. Pico Blvd., 3rd Floor.

Mondays Improved balance can prevent falls and help avoid fatigue and muscle strain. Julliardtrained choreographer Nurit Krauss will teach exercises to help you walk, climb stairs and maintain posture at a balance class through Aug. 3, 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Explore where opera is headed at “Modern Opera: A New Voice” on July 6; take a look at lesser known music at “Hidden Gems” on July 13; hear voices of bygone days at “Three Other Tenors” on July 20 and get a sneak peak at the L.A. Opera’s 2009-10 season on July 27, all from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m.

Tuesdays Take a tour of the world of art with Jack King through July 28, 1 to 2:30 p.m. The art professor will delve into the lives of some of the world’s great artists.

Wednesdays Limber up, relieve tension and improve coordination during Polynesian dance classes through Aug. 5 from 10:15 a.m. to noon.

The path to increased stamina and energy can be found at a cardio workout class, featuring both chair and standing exercises, through Aug. 5 from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m.

Achieve flexibility, coordination, mental endurance and self-confidence at a karate class through Aug. 5 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Chef Stu will lecture on a range of ingredients and host

HANDS-ON COMPUTER classes are popular.

STRENGTH TRAINING classes are hosted by OASIS.

tastings to help you develop a more sophisticated palate. A class on chocolate is on July 8; honey is featured on July 15.

Olives are the topic on July 22; the use of vinegar, from medicinal to cooking, is explored on July 29. Classes take place from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Thursdays Create letters, fliers, resumes and more when you learn Microsoft Word at hands-on classes through Aug. 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Personal trainer Jackie Lee will show how to reverse the aging process, combat osteo-

Volunteer posts, internships open at Holocaust Museum

Internship and volunteer opportunities are available for the summer in the areas of education, fundraising, archives and general office support at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust, 6435 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 303 An application may be completed on the website www.lamoth.org under the education menu. For information call 323-651-3706.

porosis, gain flexibility and improve our posture at “Strength Training for Strong Bones & Muscles” through Aug. 6, 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Fridays Learn to alleviate pain with the Arthritis Foundation

Exercise Program through Aug. 7. Instructors tailor workouts from a menu of 72 exercises. Included are endurance building activities, relaxation techniques and health education from 10 to 11 a.m.

Yoga classes that promote stress reduction, flexibility, weight loss, strength and relaxation will be offered through

Aug. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A discussion group will review current events on July 10 and Aug. 14 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Psychologist Helga Koller will help you discover the beauty of growing old at “The Best Is Yet to Come” on July 17 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more information, call 310-475-4911 ext. 2200.

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

Larchmont Chronicle

Mutual interests sparked Flint romance Life was easier 50 years ago, the couple agreed. “We didn’t need fancy cars or multiple pairs of shoes. And we got value for our money.

“Young people today are concerned about finances, and about being able to support a spouse,” explained Joyce.

“Often, they don’t want the responsibility of being married,” she continued.

But for Joyce and Mitchell, it’s been a wonderful “trip.”

“And those 50 years just flew by.”

The Los Angeles Department of Aging and Los Angeles Foundation of Aging have partnered to offer Project CARE (Caring Actions Responding to Elders).

The program provides needed and quality of life items for low-income, isolated and homebound seniors throughout the city of Los Angeles.

Senior requests include food, toiletries, clothing, walking shoes, books, music, art supplies and walkers. Since the program's inception four years ago, more than 630 requests have been filled.

For more information or to get involved, contact Marielle Freire-Reyes at 213-252-4042 or visit www.givelafa.org.

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THEIR WEDDING took place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Dr. Jeffrey Sage

mon interests when we met.

We are both Jewish, and we are life-long democrats. During their first married years, they worked for the Adlai Stevenson for President campaign. And they belonged to the Young Democrats of Beverly Hills.

Highland Ave. residents for 44 years, the couple has two sons, Michael and Guy. The Flints enjoy traveling, and often go to Mitchell’s Navy reserve reunion. “We’ve been all over the country attending these,” Joyce said.

Dr. Sage offers highly skilled cataract and eyelid surgery as well as expert treatment for patients with glaucoma and other diseases of the eye.

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SAME TIME, SAME PLACE. Mitchell and Joyce Flint celebrated their 50th anniversary at the same place they wed.

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CARE serves homebound seniors

©LC 0505

Joyce and Mitchell Flint celebrated their anniversary on the same day and month as their wedding 50 years ago.

“We held it at the same place too, the Beverly Hilton Hotel, and the hotel gave us the flowers, the cake and the champagne for the party,” said Joyce.

“It was a Romeo and Juliet romance,” explains Mitchell about their first meeting. “She was on a balcony, and waved to the fellow I was walking with.

I asked him for her name, and he introduced us. Our first date was a stroll through Beverly Hills.”

Mitchell was a decorated Navy pilot when Joyce met him. “He is 12 years older, and mature. I think that helped our relationship because I was just a young girl.”

Mitchell left his Kansas City home to enlist in the Navy during World War II. He also served in the Korean War, and helped Israel form an air force when the nation was formed in 1948.

He moved to Los Angeles and received his law degree at UCLA, and retired from his law practice a few years ago.

Joyce continues in her job as a probate conservator.

“We realized we had com-

JULY 2009

1127 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1600 • Los Angeles, CA 90017

Call (213) 250-5333 For Your Appointment

SENIOR OUTLOOK

JULY 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

www.hsmpc.com Seniors can take advantage of a range of exercise programs catering to their needs at the Assistance League of Southern California Hollywood Senior Multipurpose Center.

For people who have a limited range of motion or suffer from arthritis or other mobility issues, there are strength-

GROUP FITNESS classes are popular and well-attended at the Pan Pacific Senior Activity Center.

Limber up with aquafit classes, learn new dances Opportunities abound for people of all ages who want to increase their strength and get more fit, from circuit and strength training, to water aerobics, and learning new dance moves.

Hollywood Wilshire YMCA 1553 Schrader Blvd.

323-467-4161 www.ymcala.org Aquatics for Older Adults (A.O.A.) aquafit classes are offered to those wanting to work on their range of motion and build strength. The classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m.

People with mobility impairments, such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease, can take advantage of the Parkinsonians Learning Lifelong Useful Skills (P.L.L.U.S.) classes.

Participants may either be seated or stand while doing exercises that will help with coordination, flexibility and posture.

For those who want to have fun learning new steps while getting fit, the vintage dance class teaches slow-paced moves and simple patterns geared for beginners. Meets Mondays,

Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m.

Pan Pacific Senior Activity Center 141 S. Gardner St. 323-935-5705 Hatha yoga classes that focus on stretching and breathing are Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m., while personalized group fitness classes are taught on Mondays and Thursdays from 10:30 to 11 :30 a.m.

Seniors may also do seated muscle strengthening exercises using thick rubber bands on Tuesdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m., as well as yoga ball exercises, which teach balance and strength on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Relax before the weekend with a stretch and flex class meant to improve range of motion and circulation every Friday at noon.

Stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, treadmills and other gym equipment are also available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Hollywood Senior Multipurpose Center 1360 N. St. Andrews Pl. 323-957-3900

ening and stretching classes sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation. Classes that teach students how to exercise their hands, arms, legs and neck while sitting in a chair meet Tuesdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., and Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Body Dynamics, a class for those with greater mobility,

works on strength, flexibility and increasing cardiovascular health. Classes meet on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Gentle stretches and breathing are taught in a yoga class especially designed for older adults on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from (Please turn to page 23)

Exercise can increase range of motion, bone density and pain relief.

Exercise • Swim Volunteer • Learn Yoga Salsa & Swing Dance Mentor • Teach Be Healthy • Get involved Join Fun Workshops Meet Great Friends

For more information or class schedules call

(323) 467-4161

Come by for a visit: Hollywood Wilshire YMCA 1553 N. Schrader Blvd.

Hollywood, CA 90028

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

Larchmont Chronicle

JULY 2009

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An isometric exercise gym workout stations • with FOR eight RETIREMENT • FOR was dedicated last month at Pan Pacific Park, at 7600 Beverly Blvd.

The Outdoor Fitness Zone includes a cross-country ski machine, an upper body workout station and leg press machine.

It was paid for by a private donor in memory of his wife, Geysol Johana Lopez Vasquez, said Serena Fiss, senior recreation director at Pan Pacific Recreation Center.

Sponsored by the Dept. of Recreation and Parks, it is part of the Trust for Public Land’s Fitness Zone Program.

The easy-to-use gym is designed to improve general health through weight loss, cardiovascular health and increased flexibility and strength building, according to city officials.

The $60,000 center also features horizontal bars, an in-

Limber UP

(Continued from page 22) 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Curves on Larchmont 527 N. Larchmont Blvd.

323-465-4652 www.curveslarchmont.com Co-owner Juliet Kiperman turned 65 years young this year and says Curves has lots to offer seniors.

The hydraulic circuit training system allows each client to exercise at her own level.

Trainers ensure exercises are done correctly and heart rates and blood pressure are monitored.

A Silver Sneakers program, designed for Medicare-eligible individuals, offers physical activity and health education.

Studies funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show the program positively impacts older adults with diabetes and depression.

Leo Thomas -Managing Dir.

cline crunch bench and lying leg curl The 2,000 LIFE ~ machine.

PERSONAL PENSION square foot area has a 20-person capacity.

CDs, robes, visits among perfect gift ideas for seniors Looking for the perfect gift for your favorite senior?

A retirment home asked its senior residents what gifts they would like to receive.

Following are suggestions off the top of their lists: • Gift baskets filled with foods they enjoy • Books—some of which are available in large print or in audio format • Tapes or CDs • An invitation to attend holiday church services with the family • A floral arrangement for their home • Robes, sweaters or other warm articles of clothing • Visits from friends and family • Framed family photos • Restaurant gift certificates • Hand-written “certificate” for an afternoon of fun or shopping • Gift certificate and a trip with you to their favorite store • Video-taped or audio messages from out-of-town family members • Computer games or programs for the computer-savvy senior • Cross stitch in a frame of an inspirational quote or phrase • Framed artifact from their youth, such as a movie poster, famous newspaper front page, magazine cover or music record • A "special performance" by grandchildren or great-grandchildren

©LC0709

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‘‘I choose to stay connected.’’

“When my son and his family moved out-of-state, I worried that we would lose touch.

But thanks to Belmont’s Center for Learning, we’re more connected than ever.

I even get e-mail from my grandchildren! Plus, I always have lots of pictures to show my friends. The Belmont Village Activity Programs Coordinator got me up to speed in no time, on computers designed especially for me. Now my grandkids can’t believe I’m surfing the web and I can’t believe how easy it is!”

‘‘I Choose Belmont Village’’ • Licensed nurse on-site around the clock • Chef-prepared, restaurant-style dining • Free scheduled transportation daily • Fitness and social activities • Medication management • Housekeeping and laundry • Assistance with daily living • Circle of Friends® memory program • Short-term stays available • Specialized Alzheimer’s care

Ask about our financial solutions for seniors & families!

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Call 866-905-2266 or visit www.belmontvillage.com to order your free guide to Assisted Living

SENIOR OUTLOOK

JULY 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

Music, yoga, support at Leeza’s Place

K RAMER

L AW G ROUP What is the AARP Legal Services Network?

The AARP Legal Services Network was established by the AARP in response to membership needs. They recognized that people over the age of 50 have legal matters that require the services of an attorney, much of which could be solved with a single legal consultation. One of the benefits of the Network is that members of the AARP are automatically entitled to a consultation with an AARP Legal Services Network provider, at no cost to the member. Legal matters are not limited to elder law issues, but include a wide variety of additional legal issues, such as general business matters, personal injury, criminal and a host of others.

Wi t h r e g a r d t o e s t a t e planning, AARP members, through the Legal Services Network, are entitled to the free consultation plus a 20% fee reduction on legal matters undertaken by the participating attorney. These matters include wills, trusts, probate and other legal matters provided by a participating attorney. In addition, the preparation of an Advance Health Care Directive costs no more than $35.00.

If you have any questions about the AARP Legal Services Network, please visit the AARP website at www.aarp.com, call AARP at 1-800-424-3410, or contact our office.

KRAMER LAW GROUP Stephen W. Kramer 5858 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 205 Los Angeles, CA 90036 323-964-7100 www.kramerlaw.biz Adv.

CLASSES, including Music 'N You above with music therapist Laura Kanofsky, right, are ongoing at Olympia Medical Center.

center, open to anyone recently diagnosed with a memory disorder and their friends, family and caregivers. All programs are the direct result of listening to and understanding the unique needs, values, pressures and goals of caregivers and their loved ones.

There is a stroke support group as well as meet-

Independence celebration at Las Palmas Bridge to bingo, blood pressure screenings, classes and trips are offered at the Las Palmas Senior Citizen Center, 1820 N. Las Palmas Ave. A rummage sale, picnic and live band is part of a post Independence Day celebration on Wed., July 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Among weekly activities is bingo on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and duplicate bridge on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

A Spanish class meets on Mondays from 1:30 to 3 p.m.; exercise class is on Wednesday, 10 to 11 a.m. On Thursdays, members gather for a yoga class from 1 to 2 p.m., and folk and line dancing from 2 to 3 p.m.

Karaoke is offered on Wednesdays from 12:30 to 2 p.m., a performance workshop on Tuesdays from 2:30 to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and an audition preparation class on Friday from 2 to 4:15 p.m.

Blood pressure screenings take place on the fourth Thursday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m..

Celebrations occur throughout the year, including parties on the last Friday for those with a birthday that month.

Upcoming day-trip destinations include Camp Seeley in nearby mountains, Pala Indian Casino and the Laguna Beach Art Festival. For more information, call 323-461-7662.

ings for those suffering from Parkinson’s and bereavement.

A yoga and tai chi and memory classes are also offered.

Wisit www.leezasplace.org, or call 323-932-5414.

Liz Taylor was dismayed at first when she spilled makeup on her favorite yellow shirt.

But, using her art background, she purchased fabric paint and added designs to the garment.

After showing the result to friends, she now has a new career—adding artwork to clothing.

The Windsor Village resident knows there are other people in the same boat, with jackets or shirts they love but can’t wear because of a stain. Her dry cleaners loved the idea, and he will be suggesting the service to customers whose clothing stains are untreatable.

She uses metallic paint for darker clothing, and says the best material to use is linen, cotton or denim.

A Seattle native, Taylor has

SAMPLES OF Liz Taylor’s work include her favorite shirt.

an art and merchandising background. “My work is a form of recycling,” she says.

To learn more, e-mail Taylor at lizzardesigns.com.

Callanan & Woods Scovern Since 1915

Three Generations of Our Family Serving Your Family

Celebrating over 93 years of service to our community

©LC0709

Music ‘N You is among the regular programs at Leeza’s Place at Olympia Medical Center, 5901 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 300A. Caregivers and their loved ones are invited to the class held the second Wednesday of every month at 11 a.m., said Yael Wyte, Leeza Care Advocate.

Clinical social worker and music therapist Laura Kanofsky leads the group, which this month meets July 14. She has worked with older adults in hospice, outpatient psychiatry and private practice settings.

“It is an opportunity for loved ones and caregivers to come together through music and experience relaxation, creative expression, reminiscing and fun,” Wyte said.

Several classes and support groups are also offered at the

Accident propels artist into a new career in design

Peggy Callanan Williams and Elena Vasquez

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ATTENTION: Denture Sufferers...

“FREE Report Reveals The Shocking

Truth About How To Stop Being A Victim To Wearing Those Agonizing Dentures Once And For All! A local doctor’s shocking new FREE report reveals the real truth about ill-fitting, irritating dentures that pop-up, gag you, fly out or get stuck when you are eating.

If you’ve been told that you do not have any options and you are stuck with those dentures and using gobs of adhesive your entire life, then you must find out the 3 dangers that denture wearers face, and the new revolutionary alternatives that are changing peoples lives daily!

Readers of the recent special report have discovered that they can now have better fitting,

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The call is free and so is the report!

Dr. Nasiry is a general dentist who enjoys making dentures. She is not a specialist.

Arezoo Nasiry, D MD • (213) 385-9710

LC0609

24

SENIOR OUTLOOK

Larchmont Chronicle

JULY 2009

25

Day-by-day activity plan Tennis Hall of Fame designed to promote health honored Pat Yeomans

skin

deep

by Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald

Make The Sun Your Friend Let’s face it--besides death and taxes, the sun is a non-negotiable part of our lives here in LA. Sure, there are upsides--spectacular mornings on the green, languid hours by the pool. But the downsides are as glaring as the sun’s rays themselves.

With the sun come pesky ultraviolet rays (UVR). In the plus column, these rays help our bodies make bone-strengthening Vitamin D. In the deficit column, UV rays wreak havoc on unprotected skin. Over time, overexposure can lead to prematurely aging skin, eye damage, and skin cancer. More than 90% of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure.

UV ray damage is measured in indices—1 through 11. On an “11” day, unprotected skin can burn in four just minutes. Besides covering yourself like Lawrence of Arabia--not always the smart fashion choice--it’s best to use plenty of broad spectrum sunscreen in SPF 25 or higher, all day.

If you’ve spent hours in the doctor’s chair having skin cancers burned off, the good news is that there are highly effective treatments and remedies available, and some damage can be reversed. So have your day in the sun—but always wear a hat!

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certified Dermatologist located in Larchmont Village with a special focus on anti-aging technology. She is an injection training physician for the better known dermal fillers such as Juvederm, Radiesse and the new Evolence as well as a physician trainer for Botox. Dr. Fitzgerald is an assistant clinical professor at UCLA and an international Sculptra trainer for Dermik Laboratories. Visit online at www.RebeccaFitzgeraldMD.com.

Telephone (323) 464-8046 Adv.

recover, the right nutrients to fuel and refuel the body, and even the right kind of positive thinking and sense of selfidentity to defend our minds and bodies against aging, illness and disease.

Your anti aging and disease defense plan • Seven days a week: practice deep breathing for two to three minutes at a time along with gentle stretching or range of motion exercises to enhance the efforts of deep breathing.

• Six days a week: move enough to achieve 10,000 steps per day.

• Five days a week: participate in moderate intensity physical activity for an accumulation of 30 minutes or more.

• Four days a week: add extra “10-minute bouts” of physical activity.

• Three days a week: participate in fat burning interval cardio conditioning to help manage metabolism and body weight.

• Two days a week: incorporate vigorous workouts that include resistance training exercise for the major muscle groups and weight-bearing in nature to promote healthy joint and bone strength density.

• One day a week: do some form of cross training activity that is fun and helps keep your calorie burn and motivation high, and your risk for injury low. Choose a physical or leisure activity that you enjoy.

Brantley Black, founder of TrainHardCore, is an independent certified personal trainer.

For more information, call 323-559-3008 or visit www. trainhardcore.com.

Volunteers help young people with challenges

Senior citizens are needed as volunteers by an organization that helps young people around the world.

Youth For Understanding (YFU) USA is seeking seniors to help in communities across the country to prepare young people for their responsibilities and challenges in a changing, interdependent global community.

The organization began in 1951 when an American minister, John Eberly, proposed to church leaders that teenagers from war-torn Germany be brought to the United States to live with a family in an effort to heal the wounds of World War II. This proposal met with approval from State Department officials.

For more information call toll-free 866-493-8872.

Pat Yeomans of Hancock Park will be inducted into the Southern California Tennis Association’s Hall of Fame on Fri., July 24 at a ceremony at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Her name will be added to a list of 56 previous honorees who have distinguished themselves in the sport.

Yeomans recently won the U.S. Tennis Association's Women's 90 clay court doubles.

She won the U.S. Lawn

Tennis Association’s Girls 18 singles in 1935.

Yeomans was a pioneer promoting women’s senior tennis at the Los Angeles Tennis Club, and was the co-founder of “Youth vs. Experience” team matches played from 1989 to 2002 between juniors 10 to 14 and the best seniors 50 to 90 at the Los Angeles Tennis Club.

Other honorees will include Dorothy “Dodo” Bundy Cheney, who recently won her 382nd U.S. Tennis Association championship.

INDUCTEES include Mary Hill (left) and Pat Yeomans.

BODY + MIND + SPIRIT

responding to the needs of the whole person

a community of hospitality offering a continuum of care Independent and Assisted Living Apartments Alzheimer’s Residence Skilled Nursing/ Rehabilitation FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT WWW.STJOG.ORG © LC 0609

By Brantley Black There is a connection between health in our internal systems and the outward youthfulness that results. We are bombarded with media news, new books, videos, and gadgets that promise results, making it more difficult to decipher this overwhelming information.

“Knowledge is power” and with knowledge you have the power to make decisions and create change in your own life and help others to do the same. To lower health risks, to slow the aging process, and bring about greater health and well-being, we must encourage every person (adult and child) to engage in healthy lifestyle practices on a daily basis.

All bodies require the right type, volume and ratio of physical movement to rest and

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SENIOR OUTLOOK

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I Treating people well.

5900 W. Olympic Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90036

310-657-5900 www.olympiamedicalcenter.com

f you haven’t been to Olympia Medical Center lately, come take a closer look at your community hospital.

You already know us for our 24-hour emergency services, acute medical treatment, quality care and convenient access. But step inside our newly renovated facility and you’ll find one of LA’s best-kept secrets: a 2009 HealthGrades five-star rated hospital with renowned physicians, highly specialized programs and groundbreaking research. We offer services you’d find at much larger facilities, but delivered with the attention and care you only get at a community hospital.

Our Specialized Programs: • California Digestive Diseases Institute 2009 Specialty Excellence

• Center for Geriatric Health

AwardTM recipient and ranked

• Los Angeles Center for Spine Care and Research

among top 10% of all hospitals

• The Memory Institute

nationally for Pulmonary Care

• Southern California Sports Medicine Institute • The Center fo Wound Management and Hyperbaric Medicine

2009 HealthGrades five-star rating for Surgery of Neck and Spine

• The Continent Ostomy Center Call for a free physician referral at 800-874-4325