Community News (Nov-Dec 2023)

November-December 2023 EXCELLENCE IN CARING ®

Finishing the Year with Purpose, Health and Joy See Story on Page 3 Menorah Park ~ Excellence in Caring ®

27100 Cedar Road

Beachwood, Ohio 44122

MenorahPark.org

Sharing the Road

Diane Liliestedt, Menorah Park President and COO

ife is a series of journeys, on paths filled with experience, challenge and growth.

As we age, we more readily find the time and inclination to reflect on our journeys. And the approaching end of another year encourages us to review and evaluate our lives.

It’s easy sometimes to judge more harshly than we should. We think about the plans we had that are still unfulfilled, the unexpected obstacles that impaired our lives, and the constant change of circumstances that are out of our control. It’s tempting to be discouraged.

The way back to joy depends on where we are in our personal journeys. We can start with a resolute acceptance of things we cannot change, and then empower ourselves to make the very most of everything else. This issue contains stories of encouragement and joy, glimpses at

Menorah Park

3 The Art of Life 5 Stay Well

the journeys that some in our community are taking, and the ways that Menorah Park nurtures and inspires them.

One of my greatest privileges is contributing to the wellbeing of those we serve, and working with an organization of caring people who, every day, provide guidance and support for the journeys our seniors are taking.

We all share grief over world events, hopelessness when we face a setback in our health, and sadness over the unforeseen challenges that divert our lives. The most important word in that sentence is “share.” We travel together. We serve each other.

So as you take time to reflect on your life’s journeys, cherish the moments and relationships that have enriched your world, that have given it depth and meaning. Take advantage of opportunities that offer new paths and new companions to share the road. Do what brings you joy, and enjoy all that you do.

I write these words to remind you that life is worth living to the fullest possible measure. And as you reflect on your journeys, I encourage you to judge yourself and treat yourself with the same mercy and love you would show to others.

Through Many Resources and Residential Communities

7 Congratulations 11 Best Nursing Homes 12 Music for the Holidays 2

Diane Liliestedt

Serving You

6 Dry Needling 8 55 Years Young

Be well.

EXCELLENCE IN CARING ®

Post-Hospital Care Rehab Therapy & Aquatics Assisted & Independent Living Memory Care Services Long-Term Care Home Health Services Adult Day and Respite Care On-site Dialysis Hospice & Palliative Care

MenorahPark.org | 216.831.6500

Menor ah P a r k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3

The Art of Life Inspiration Comes When We Are Open to the Possibilities

O

n a late fall day with sunlight warming the cozy living room, Richard Sacks looks to the blue sky, shifts his electric wheelchair slightly and with a look of determination shares, “I’ve settled in to accepting who I am and where I am. I make my life what I want.

My walls are decorated with my joy – many of my framed puzzles and paintings. I feel appreciation for my children and grandchildren, my neighbors and volunteers in Pearl’s Place, like Jerry, who have become my friends, and people who I would call my extended family, the staff including so many – housekeepers, office workers, nurses and aides.”

Richard’s appreciation for community faced the same test we all did just a few short years ago. During the pandemic shutdown, Richard turned to word search games as a way to cope with the isolation, and to keep his mind active. “I want to do whatever I can to keep myself going for as long as I can,” he said, “but it wasn’t fulfilling. There was no passion to it.” But a different kind of puzzle helped put the pieces together for Richard, when a life enrichment staff member suggested jigsaw puzzles. When she had his first puzzle framed to hang on his wall, Richard found his passion.

COVER STORY

Tremendous Talent On and Off Campus on Display at Menorah Park Art Show

The word “Wow” followed by “Amazing.

Residents created all of these?” reverberated with smiles and appreciation for the talent on display in Menorah Park’s Saltzman Auditorium. Submissions for the exhibit came from R.H. Myers, Wiggins Place, Stone Gardens, Menorah Park and Montefiore. From paintings and photography to exquisite jewelry and ceramics, each piece was as spectacular as the next, expressed guests visiting with the artists as they walked the room. They also took note of our community guest artist, Gadi Zamir of the Negative Space gallery, appreciative of seeing his works that visually depict Biblical stories and a first-time public display of Numbers, dedicated in remembrance of victims and survivors of the Holocaust, and a favorite of one of our youngest guests, “Owl’s Lullaby”

“My daughter says I’m a people person and she’s right.

I enjoy meeting people and finding shared interests,” Richard says. “I heard that my life enrichment coordinator’s son liked the movie Cars. I built a puzzle from the movie and gifted it to him. Her son was so thrilled, he ran and got all of his cars and lined them up, with the puzzle in the middle as a place of honor.

That made my day.”

A nurse saw Richard working on a puzzle with chairs on a beach at sunset and said it reminded her of her vacation. So Richard added her name on the back of one of the chairs and gave it to her. “My granddaughter likes The Mandalorian,” he said. “That puzzle took a long time to finish, but I promised her and it’s good to have a challenge. My daughter helped me find one of my son’s favorites, a surf shack and Volkswagen bus, and we created a father and daughter gift for him.”

While he’s moved from puzzles to painting, he credits his creative activity with making him healthier; he’s lost weight and has reduced his medication. “It’s not the continued on page 4

Margot Cisler looks with wonder as Francine Hekelman shares insights about the display.

Gadi describes the piece like this: At times, when I look at my kids tightly and comfortably embracing their security blanket, I can’t help thinking of kids who are less fortunate. To kids who live in a combat zone, a security blanket is often the only comfort they have in the midst of bombs, smoke and destruction.

This piece is an attempt to illustrate how children with the same needs and same desires can be present in such different environments.

I dedicate this piece to the children of war.

3

COVER STORY

puzzles or paintings themselves,” Richard explains, “but how they make others feel.” Richard’s joyful conversation pieces don’t just adorn his own walls; they hang in homes, offices, and the art gallery in Menorah Park’s central connecting walkway. “This is what makes a difference. I move down the hall and people say hello. It feels good to be recognized. I feel a sense of accomplishment. What I have created and continue to create gives me a way to do things for others; to do something I can’t do otherwise.”

Among Richard’s extended family is neighbor Marc Frisch. “I enjoy checking in with him,” Richard says. “We sit and kibbitz – going back and forth with our stories.

It was a lot of fun seeing our daughters, Rebecca and Shelly laughing with each other and sharing pride in our creative work.”

Nearly a Century of Living Marc Frisch may be seen volunteering his time taking photographs throughout Menorah Park, and he also writes short stories. Several of his photos have been published over time in volunteer newsletters, the community news and on social media. He was recently seen at the Menorah Park art show capturing more illustrations of life. And like Richard, he realizes that ultimately he is responsible for the quality of his life.

Celebrating his 100th birthday in January, Marc’s rich life begs this question often asked of an individual achieving longevity, ‘What do you find important toward a successful, happy life?’

4

“Three words,” Marc says with a self-assured air. “Sense of responsibility.”

That includes a responsibility to oneself, to be positive, to learn and grow from experience, as well as a responsibility to others – as attested by Marc’s decorated service in WWII. “How great it was to Marc (left) and Richard with their daughters Shelly have a mix of and Rebecca at the recent Menorah Park Art Show all individuals together from different cultures. In the barracks, would bring different subjects we’d battle over what to play on to photograph. “It was quite the radio and that was great fun,” interesting. On my 80th birthday, Marc says. “I remember my first things took off with nature pictures day in action vividly. The mortars like the ones in the art show.” were hitting and three of us found From Chautauqua to France, he a big hole and jumped in. I never took opportunities to take pictures believed in G-d until that moment. of every adventure with family and Before, religion felt like rituals. friends, while reminding viewers of I never really liked temple, but I the importance of preserving our liked my friends. From that time natural resources. “I believe nature on, they’d blow the bugle and I at times is stronger than G-d,” he would pray to G-d. It’s always explains. been a personal relationship.”

In addition to Marc’s military Marc got his start in photography service, he has worked as a after seeing his nephew pull a volunteer for both SCORE – camera across the floor with a having been a business owner – string. “He agreed to trade his and The Gathering Place – being a camera for a gift,” Marc shared. cancer survivor.

“After beginning with my daughter, Marc Frisch and Richard Sacks I dabbled by taking pictures of are shining examples of a tomatoes growing in my back meaningful life. Two friends filled yard.” Marc took a course with the with purpose and joy, they share Cleveland Photographic Society their creative gifts with others, and later a course at Case Western touching lives and building a Reserve University. The professor better community. invited students to his home and

Menor ah P a r k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3

Breathe Easier

F

Dr. Rajit Tamaskar, Menorah Park Chief Medical Officer

all and winter bring a greater risk of respiratory viruses. These can cause serious illness, especially in seniors whose immune systems may be compromised and who often have underlying health conditions. Heart disease, chronic lung disease and obesity can put seniors at higher risk of getting very sick from respiratory viruses.

Menorah Park Chief Medical Officer Rajit Tamaskar offers advice for remaining healthy during this season.

Be Prepared Most people are familiar with Flu and Covid vaccines. Both are available easily. Please make sure you and your family members are vaccinated. RSV vaccine is new. This disease is very common in children but seniors are affected by it too.

Be Healthy Exercise and stay as active as possible. Take advantage of sunshine, even for short periods. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Stay hydrated.

Be Sensible If you are sick, stay home. Use a mask. If your family members have symptoms, they should stay home. Wash your hands and practice good hygiene.

If you have worsening symptoms of respiratory disease, call your healthcare provider.

Be Informed Keep an eye on reliable news outlets for reports of outbreaks and public health guidelines. Take additional precautions when necessary.

Menorah Park wants our community to stay healthy throughout the year, and especially during the tough months of winter. We offer a wide range of services and programs to support our residents, patients, clients, families and caregivers. From nutritious meals and exercise to learning opportunities and healthcare, we hope you’ll take advantage of the activities and services designed to keep our seniors healthy, happy and secure.

Stay Well This Winter s winter approaches, many of us are faced with illness, reduced mobility due to weather, and other obstacles that prevent us from living our best lives. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a condition that can cause mood changes and depression, brought on by shorter daylight hours that put us out of step with our normal daily routines.

Changes in appetite, sleep patterns and emotional balance are not uncommon in people affected by SAD. There are therapies that can help alleviate SAD, so if you’re experiencing symptoms – ongoing depression, low energy, loss of appetite, restlessness or difficulty concentrating – talk to your healthcare provider.

Social engagement, physical activity, a healthy diet and good sleep hygiene are great ways to combat depression and improve overall health at the same time.

The Menorah Park campus offers a wide variety of programs throughout the winter months for residents and the community at large designed to keep us engaged and healthy.

• Walking with a group is a great way to get exercise and social interaction.

• Learn a new skill or try a new hobby.

• Our social and learning activities are great opportunities to meet new people and develop new interests.

Winter may bring greater risk of illness, but it is also an opportunity to renew our commitment to age well and remain vital.

To learn about residential options, call 216.360.8202 or email communityrelations@menorahpark.org.

Temporary stays are available with special rates as low as $100 per day.

5

Dry Needling

K

aren Kirby takes advantage of different therapies to alleviate pain, increase mobility and improve her quality of life. One of those is the alternative therapy called dry needling, provided by trained therapists at The Peter B. Lewis Aquatic & Therapy Center.

Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) is a treatment for pain and movement issues associated with myofascial trigger points. With this technique, thin needles are briefly inserted into or near pain trigger points. The needles stimulate muscles, causing them to contract.

“I had already worked with therapists at the Center,” Karen says, “after back surgery and again after a hip replacement.

I first tried TDN for hip and back pain.”

It was the Center’s warm water therapy that first gave Karen the relief she was looking for. “I had spinal fusion, and the spine surgeon told me that I needed to move as much as possible. He referred me to the Center for aquatic therapy. It was a life saver.”

Karen believes in doing whatever she can to maintain her health and comfort. “I’ve had nerve pain medication and cortizone shots,” she says.

“But I’m a big believer in therapy and exercise.

“I started taking ballet class when I was 9 and kept at it until my senior year of high school, when I quit to join the pep squad. LSU didn’t offer ballet, and I was never very good at sports, so I stopped dancing. Then when I was in my late 30s, my oldest daughter wanted to take ballet and insisted I go with her. I’ve been doing it ever since. It’s a great way to keep up my strength and mobility.”

Karen and her husband Albert became members of the Center, where Karen takes advantage of yoga, warm water exercises and other health/fitness programs. When she started experiencing shoulder pain, it was dry needling that really made a difference.

“TDN gave me such relief from shoulder pain.

Sessions are 45 minutes, but didn’t always take the

6

Karen and Albert Kirby stay fit at the Center

full time. So I sometimes got to do other therapies in the same visit.

“I would lie on my side so the therapist can access my shoulder and back. She helps me identify pain points, then inserts needles for just a few seconds at those points. As soon as the therapy was done, the relief from pain was instantaneous.”

When asked if she would recommend the Center to others, Karen enthusiastically answers, “I have! It’s a very welcoming place. The therapists and all the staff are attentive, pleasant and professional.

They offer a lot of different classes and services, and provide great wellness information. I’ve also met so many people in similar circumstances and formed new friendships.”

Albert agrees, “The Center has a positive atmosphere I just haven’t seen at other places. It’s gratifying to work with people who have a great attitude and are genuinely interested in helping you get to where you want to be in life.”

For more information, call 216.595.7345 or email mgroesch@menorahpark.org.

Menor a h P ar k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3

Congratulations The Marc Alan Silverstein Family Unsung Hero Award

to members of our incredible team and thank you to the donors who help us celebrate them!

Jane Pearson Resident Associate of the Year

Florence Frankel Award

Asheba Coleman, Stone Gardens Resident Associate

Roland Williams, Montefiore Assistant Director of Engineering

Reena Bizzell, Housekeeping Montefiore

Suzanne Funk, Office Coordinator Home and Community Service

Menorah Award

Home Health Employee of the Year

Wiggins Place Employee of the Year

Stanley Lawrence, Menorah Park Director of Engineering

Dorina Kotkovskiy, RN Home Health Beachwood

Abdoul Sow

Monisha Wright

The Florence Azoff Wish Professional Service Award

Milton W. & Ethel Paley Memorial Employee of the Year Award

The Tillie Gutterman Distinguished Employee of the Year Award

Eran Shiloh, PT Peter B. Lewis Aquatic & Therapy Center

Lisa Altenbaugh, exercise specialist Peter B. Lewis Aquatic & Therapy Center

Jamila Edmond, Cook The R.H. Myers Apartments 7

55 Years Young A Bold Idea

I

n 1968, shortly after moving the Menorah Park nursing home from Cleveland to Beachwood, an idea was born. We are fortunate to have recorded a first-hand account from its first director, Florence Wish of blessed memory. “The whole idea of adult day care bloomed up and proliferated throughout the community.

The idea was to keep them out in the community longer. We started all kinds of programs that were absolutely delightful, where we could bring in the community for holidays and other programs. We’d support their care needs, they participated in activities, ate all their meals here.

It was a beautiful thing. During the years I was there, we developed not only the opportunity for people to come in for holidays but also an opportunity to come in for respite. The whole idea of adult day care just seemed to boomerang. It proliferated all over the city. People from all over the country came to see what we were doing.”

Today, the Mandel Adult Day Center of Menorah Park is the longest standing day center known to be in People from all existence. This daytime program over the country continues to support the needs of family caregivers, often coupled came to see what with home care for evening and we were doing. weekend support. It has also been a place for clients to find social outlets, great fun, and loving support that complements that of family.

In addition, 24-hour respite care through Menorah Park may be provided when family members are unavailable to care for loved ones.

Dear Adult Day Center

“Caregivers can not do this job with the success I’ve experienced if it weren’t for people like you, your staff and the Menorah Park Organization ... from transportation to meals and activities. On those days when I drop my mother off, she lights up when she hits that door and is greeted by one of the staff. A perfect picture of the saying ‘Team work makes the dream work.’

My family and I truly thank you for your care and support in providing my mother with the best quality of life possible in this ever changing and challenging journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

May you all be as richly blessed as you have so blessed those of us who depend on you and your services at the Adult Day Program. While no one is perfect, you guys have been perfect for us.”

With a grateful heart, Rochelle Long and Family

Support for Family Caregivers There are more than 60 million caregivers in the sandwich generation in the U.S. right now caring for aging parents. Ten hours of respite from caregiving each week can help preserve their health and even extend their lives, according to research.

For those who receive no help or reprieve from taking care of their loved ones, the stress is unrelenting, especially for caregivers who live more than an hour away.

A New Adventure The Mandel Adult Day Center has been the answer to better health and a more fulfilling life for everyone.

Rochelle’s mother Shirley

continued on page 10

8

Menor a h P ar k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3

Meet Stone Gardens life enrichment team Noah Budin and Maria Vinas

Colorful Months of Smiles on Display

Hear why we at Menorah Park are their biggest fans at the upcoming free concert at The Temple-Tifereth Israel on Sunday, November 12 at 4 p.m. Noah, his band and Maria, a guest performer, will be performing songs from Noah’s new CD, Only Love. We are fortunate to have the duo entertaining and inspiring residents at Stone Gardens and throughout our community as members of our team.

Beth Bigelow has an artist’s eye for putting abstract colors together. Beth’s desire to spread positivity and love of art prompted her to create visions of beauty to bring cheer to neighbors and staff of her Montefiore home.

Hope to see you there! No reservations required.

She began creating and coloring art calendars that have brought many smiles during the last several years. She proudly marks a fifth year and is on her way toward finishing up calendars for 2024.

“It gives me a good feeling and I love it. It’s all about cheering up others and making the community a better place,” she says with a widening grin. Thank you for your beautiful spirit and kind work for the good of others!

Montefiore of Menorah Park resident Beth Bigelow creating her calendar art

9

Care Sooner, Rather Than Later, Improves Quality of Life

N

ovember is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. It’s an opportunity to recognize the importance of serious-illness care and to plan ahead.

Hospice care is an interdisciplinary approach whose goal is to optimize quality of life. Hospice care relieves suffering by managing physical symptoms while providing for emotional, social and spiritual care. It also provides support for family and caregivers during a crucial and difficult time.

Studies show that when someone enrolls with hospice care, both quality of life and duration of life expectancy improve. It’s a six-month benefit, and if individuals and families can utilize it earlier on, their burdens can be eased by the physical, spiritual and emotional support provided by the hospice team.

Most of the individuals who get admitted to hospice do so just before they die, leaving them and their loved ones to experience only a few days of comfort care and improved quality of life.

Early hospice admission leads to better pain and symptom control, fewer hospital and ICU admissions and more days of life. It also gives the patient and family caregivers access to medical supplies, equipment and bereavement support.

But this kind of care is only possible when patients, caregivers and providers are aware of the benefits and make it a priority.

It’s important to plan ahead for these difficult decisions, document preferences in writing, and have conversations about the best care we can imagine for the end of life.

We’re here to help. Call Hospice Community Liaison Hannah Paul at 216.910.2650 or email hospice@menorahpark.org.

10

55 Years Young

continued from page 8

“The Center staff is highly trained and specializes in programs and services that are proving to improve seniors’ lives and outlook, and are a shining example to other organizations. There is a dire need for services and programs such as the ones we offer. We are changing lives, and we are changing how people age,” explains Director of Home and Community Based Services, Tina Witt.

“The expert staff provides excellent structured activities and outings, nutritious chef prepared meals, assistance with medication reminders, helpful tips for families and much more.

“Joining the Center and attending even as little as once per week enhances mood and energy level,” Witt said. “They spend the day sharing stories, getting some muchneeded exercise and having fun! It’s all about celebrating the normalcies of life.”

Witt knows that the concept of attending an Adult Day Center, like any new adventure, can be frightening. “That’s why we offer two free days, so that people can come and see what it’s all about, and our warm, welcoming staff and club members take pride in making our new friends feel at ease. We also have other attendance offers available to help with cost.”

For more information including details about two free trial days and to schedule a tour, please contact Tina at tmwitt@ menorahpark.org or call 216.839.6673.

Menorah Park also offers a residential respite stay option at several locations.

Anniversary celebrations for the Mandel Adult Day Center will be November 20th through 22nd.

Please join us to experience the Center for yourself.

Menor a h P ar k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3

Making a Change for the Better

I

f you or someone you love is thinking of moving to a senior living community, our decisionmaking guide is a great place to start. It will help you organize your priorities and prepare you to ask the right questions as you search for a new home.

We’re here to help.

To get a digital copy of the guide use this convenient QR code or go to MenorahPark.org.

To speak with a senior living expert, call 216.360.8202.

Newsweek: Menorah Park Among America’s Best Nursing Homes 2024

Once again, Menorah Park is honored to be selected by Newsweek among America’s Best Nursing Homes for 2024, rated #1 in our category in northeast Ohio and #3 in the State of Ohio. The article appearing on its website states that they analyzed “over 12,000 nursing homes in the U.S. and have recognized award-winners in 25 states.”

Rankings are based on five data sources, including performance data, peer recommendations, management of the COVID-19 situation and accreditations from The Joint Commission and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. For the first time, resident satisfaction data for nursing homes has been added to the scoring model. They also engaged thousands of medical experts in what they categorize as a reputation survey.

“Our award-winning Excellence in Caring® throughout our organization and in each of our nursing homes is a testament to our dedicated caregiving teams and all of our collective staff. We are very proud to receive this recognition. It demonstrates Menorah Park’s focus on each individual as part of our extended family, honoring our collective mothers and fathers, and the entire community we serve,” stated Diane Liliestedt, Menorah Park President and COO.

Fall

brings more of our favorite things to experience together. The sights of spectacular fall foliage, aromas of freshly baked favorites, engaging with festivals, friends and so many comfort foods. Along with all this goodness, we kick off another holiday season with so much to enjoy!

The Willensky Residence shares gratitude for loved ones and such a caring community! Residents, families, friends and staff are looking forward to welcoming family for Friendsgiving: a beautiful blend of feast and fun, sharing stories of family traditions and enjoying time together!

Friday, November 17 at 2 p.m.

Thank you to Beachwood Mayor Justin Berns for joining us at our community-wide Fall Fest held at Stone Gardens. He’s joined by Janet Kibrick and members of her family Charlotte Peterlin and Wendy Frank.

11

Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage Permit No. 2206 Cleveland, Ohio

Menorah Park Bet Moshav Zekenim Hadati 27100 Cedar Road Beachwood, Ohio 44122

20th Annual

Rock for All Ages Chanukah Concert

Come listen to the sounds of Cleveland Crooner

Popular program returns

Bill Newman

Josefovitz Opera Theater

and Happy Hour(s)

Wiggins Place

Noah Budin brings his band to Stone Gardens for a special Chanukah concert for all in our community to enjoy.

FOOD | MUSIC | COCKTAILS

Wednesday, December 13

Happy Chanukah and Happy Holidays!

2:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Stone Gardens

R.H. Myers Apartments

2:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 9 Please RSVP 216.360.8202

Wednesday, December 13 7:00 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving and Chag Sameach

Menorah Park extends greetings to our community for a happy and healthy holiday season!

If you would prefer to view our newsletter electronically, go to MenorahPark.org.

Menorah Park complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

12

Menor ah P a r k Co m m u n i ty • 2 7 1 0 0 Ce d ar R oa d, Bea chwood, O hio 44122 • Nov ember - D ecem ber, 2 0 2 3