Advantage

ADVANTAGE

Healthy Living Over 55

In this issue

1 Cover Story: 6 Pillars of Health & Longevity

4 Torrance Memorial’s Six-Year Affiliation with Cedars-Sinai

6 Palliative Care

8 Ask the Doctor: Subdural Hematomas

9 Best & Simple Password Managers

10 Strange Changes in Aging

12 Wellness Classes, Events and Support Groups

6 Pillars of Health & Longevity

How Torrance Memorial helps you on your path to well-being

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS

With a 360-degree perspective on health care, Torrance Memorial Medical Center has been helping seniors live longer, healthier, happier lives for decades. Experts say to thrive at any age, it is essential to optimize all aspects of a multifaceted life. This includes mental well-being,

nutrition, physical fitness, social/emotional connections and financial stability. Torrance Memorial offers lectures, support groups, classes, events and volunteer opportunities focused on healthy living. In addition, our world-class team of experts and highly trained physicians are ready to assist you with all your health and wellness needs.

COVER STORY

Torrance Memorial offers a multitude of programs and services to help you optimize your health in many aspects, all of which are available to you in your own community.

3

Be sure to schedule an annual wellness check with your primary care physician. “A wellness exam is a preventive type of care as we focus on keeping health problems from progressing,” says Alya Torna, MD, primary care physician with Torrance Memorial Physician Network. At the checkup expect to be screened for cholesterol and blood pressure levels, thyroid functionality, diabetes and cancer risk.

At your appointment, chat openly with your doctor about any wellness concerns. “We discuss lifestyle choices such as drinking and smoking, and we talk about family history and check the patient for those issues. We talk about immunizations for COVID-19, flu, pneumonia and shingles,” explains Sara Kanamori, MD, primary care physician with Torrance Memorial Physician Network. “If you get your checkups regularly, your doctor will notice any differences or health changes you may not be aware of,” Dr. Kanamori adds. It is important to have a dedicated primary care doctor. If you need help finding one, please call 310-891-6717.

increasing anxiety levels and/or depression, explains Audrey Chen, MD, a psychiatrist and behavioral health specialist with Torrance Memorial Physician Network. Dr. Chen says it is important to get a senior wellness checkup to discuss changes in your life and health with your physician.

“As people age, they face significant changes in their lives including retirement/decreasing work, new and often chronic health problems or loved ones passing away. All of these are emotionally taxing and stressful and can cause grief,” says Dr. Chen.

She urges everyone to talk openly with physicians about mental well-being. It’s important to note symptoms of depression and anxiety—including impaired concentration, fatigue and memory issues— can be misdiagnosed as dementia. Getting the proper support and treatment can help you live a more robust and fulfilling life.

3 NUTRITION

emia/hypertension and congestive heart failure.

Their services are tailored to target each client’s needs, which can also include emotional support, assistance with planning, and motivation strategies, says Dani.

Making

When you feel good, you are inspired to do good. So when you are feeling stressed, anxious, lonely or are going through a transition, it is normal to not eat well and to sleep poorly or forgo exercise. This can exasperate feelings of inertia and lessen motivation to engage with others or participate in activities,

You’ve likely heard the adage: You are what you eat. Daneivys (Dani) Rodriguez-Brindicci, MS, RDN, director of clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy at Torrance Memorial, highly agrees. Dani and her team of nutritionists— all Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs)—help patients relieve symptoms of disease and treat medical conditions via individualized diets. Some conditions they assist with include cancer, diabetes, celiac disease, kidney disease, morbid obesity/bariatric surgery, irritable bowel disease, hyperlipid-

“For guidance and motivation, an RDN will use creative, out-ofthe-box strategies to help with meal prep, planning, grocery shopping, food journaling and mindful eating,” Dani explains. “Whether the goal is to lose weight, improve health or expand one’s knowledge of nutrition, an RDN is the ideal source for scientific, research-based strategies.”

Services and programs include diabetes self-management education and support, cancer and nutrition lectures, treatment programs and more. To inquire about the wide range of nutritional services and programs, please call 310-8916707 or visit TorranceMemorial.org/ nutrition.

2 MENTAL

4 FINANCIAL

Peace of mind is priceless. Torrance Memorial has been helping seniors bolster their financial health for decades. They offer free seminars and educational programs led by professional advisors on a variety of important financial issues, from retirement planning to navigating tax liability to estate planning.

Financial health seminars are held every other month, January to September, on Saturday mornings in person at Hoffman Health Conference Center with a Zoom option, explains Sandy VandenBerge, director of planned giving for the Torrance Memorial Foundation. For more information on the next seminar see page 15.

5 SOCIAL

In need of a social outlet that is also meaningful? You may want to consider volunteering at Torrance Memorial. Hospital volunteer gigs are extremely social, says Mary Matson, MHA, CPXP, CAVS, director of service excellence and patient experience and volunteer services.

“Volunteers have a lot of fun with each other and often socialize outside the hospital. In fact, a group of Wednesday afternoon volunteers lunch together monthly at various South Bay restaurants,” Mary says. “Some volunteers are best friends today because they met while volunteering!”

During the pandemic, when age 65+ volunteers were required to stay “safe at home” per a Department of Public Health order, it was clear how much volunteering meant to the many volunteers who became isolated. Mary ex-

plains, by not volunteering they missed their friends, the meaningful work and the physical exercise from walking all over the hospital.

“I concur with Mary,” says Claire Coignard, director of health education for HealthLinks. “We sent cards to our volunteers weekly and would hear back regularly of their struggles.”

“One even drove to the loading zone outside a couple of times just so we could see one another in person across the sidewalk, wave madly, and blow kisses and send air hugs her way. It was wonderful but broke our hearts too. I know she was only one of many who felt so impacted by the isolation,” says Claire.

If you are interested in volunteering at Torrance Memorial, opportunities can be found at TorranceMemorial.org/ volunteer.

6 FITNESS

Staying fit through enjoyable, social activity is key to healthy longevity. At Torrance Memorial, a variety of fitness and wellness classes are taught daily. Want to try a beginner yoga or a tai chi class? We’ve got you covered. How about line dancing or mat Pilates? You’ll find that too.

Every day multiple classes are offered—from balance and strength training to a variety of chair yoga classes and even sound bath and meditation. Classes are scheduled in four-week and eight-week sessions and are held in two locations: the hospital campus and at Malaga Cove in Palos Verdes Estates. For more about the classes, see page 12, visit TorranceMemorial.org/ classes or call 310-517-4711.

OUR EXPERT TEAM HAS ONCE AGAIN RANKED FIRST AMONG SOUTH BAY HOSPITALS BY NEWSWEEK. Combined with U.S. News & World Report rankings, Torrance Memorial places in the top 1% in the nation, further solidifying our position as the number ONE hospital in the South Bay. Torrance Memorial’s quality results and rankings far exceed any other hospital in the community.

Learn more at TMGetTheFacts.org

#1 Ranked Hospital in the South Bay

Ranked #10 in California

- Newsweek

Ranked #43 in the Nation

(Top Elite 150-250 Hospitals Worldwide)

- Newsweek

Torrance Memorial’s Six-Year Affiliation with Cedars-Sinai Brings Life-Saving Treatments to South Bay Residents

WRITTEN BY LISA BUFFINGTON

When Torrance Memorial Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai began their affiliation in 2018, the organizations made a shared commitment to bring South Bay communities the gold standard of care.

Six years later, the team continues to deliver on that promise. In collaboration with the leading academic health system, Cedars-Sinai, patients have access to the latest technology, advanced treatment options and more clinical expertise in the areas of neuroscience, oncology and cardiology.

Advancing Community-Based Cardiovascular Care

Torrance Memorial’s affiliation with Cedars-Sinai means South Bay residents can receive everything from advanced cardiac surgery procedures and minimally invasive heart valve care to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and pre- and post-heart transplant treatment, close to home.

“We can offer Torrance Memorial patients the same expertise, investigational devices and therapies available at Cedars-Sinai—options not previously available in the South Bay,” says Aziz Ghaly, MD, Cedars-Sinai cardiac surgeon

and director of cardiac surgery at Torrance Memorial’s Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute. “In addition to expanding our capabilities to treat high-risk and complex patients at Torrance Memorial, we can also make immediate referrals to our colleagues at Cedars-Sinai if a patient needs an advanced procedure, such as a heart transplant.”

For cardiac emergencies, Dr. Ghaly performs complex cardiac surgeries and minimally invasive procedures such as temporary Impella heart pump placement. Torrance Memorial’s extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program is also another example of the life-saving

Torrance Memorial Medical Center is proud to recongnize its six-year anniversary and strategic alliance with Cedars-Sinai.

benefits of local access to advanced care, according to Dr. Ghaly.

“Torrance Memorial is the only medical center in the South Bay— and one of the few nonacademic medical centers in southern California—to have an ECMO machine, which means we can offer temporary heart and lung support for critically ill patients,” says Dr. Ghaly. “As a result, we were able to save a lot of lives during COVID-19 because we could care for patients locally and didn’t have to transfer them.”

Expanded Oncology Services and Clinical Trials

Hugo Hool, MD, medical director of the Hunt Cancer Institute, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, has been involved with the affiliation since its inception—and he has witnessed the benefits of the collaboration firsthand.

“Years ago, if a patient in our community had an aggressive form of cancer and they didn’t have support or transportation to travel to an academic medical center, they may not have had access to the best care or outcomes,” says Dr. Hool. “Now patients can access stellar care locally, right where they live.”

And that access has expanded over the years. The affiliation with Cedars-Sinai Cancer started with a focus on blood and breast cancer care and has since grown to include Cedars-Sinai experts who provide surgical oncology, head and neck cancer, neuro-oncology, thoracic surgery, pancreatic cancer/biliary disease and genitourinary cancer care support at Torrance Memorial.

Through the Cedars-Sinai affiliation, Dr. Hool and the Hunt Cancer Institute team are also

involved in dozens of clinical trials for advanced therapies that aren’t widely available.

“This early access to promising treatments benefits hundreds of patients who enroll each year and ultimately from the research we perform,” says Dr. Hool. “Our researchers are now able to use an individual’s tumor DNA to direct them to the specific trial tailored to deliver the best chance of an improved outcome.”

Current clinical trials available to patients include studies on chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), which involves engineering T-cells to fight cancer, and a newer iteration of that therapy called CARNK therapy, which uses natural killer cells. Physician-researchers are also investigating emerging therapies such as bispecific T-cell engagers (BITEs) and antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), as well as radiation oncology and interventional radiology treatments.

The oncology team also emphasizes holistic patient care that goes beyond just treating the cancer. “Our integrative medicine program provides supportive therapies to augment cancer treatment so we can care for the whole patient,” says Dr. Hool. “We are also involved in clinical trials focused on improving quality of life and well-being for our patients in a scientific way.”

Leading the Way in Neurology Care

Neurological conditions are among the most complex to diagnose and treat. Through the affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, Torrance Memorial has been able to expand its expertise and access to more neurological services. The neurol-

ogists, neurosurgeons and neurointerventionists at the Torrance Memorial Lundquist Neurosciences Institute offer leading-edge, collaborative care and clinical trials to successfully treat a wide range of neurological disorders, including serious stroke, brain tumors, movement disorders and more—all without leaving the South Bay.

“We can perform the full range of complex neurosurgeries, including vascular, endovascular and brain tumor surgery,” says Dr. Eboli. “Our goal has been to bring the highest level of expertise to the South Bay through our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, and we have built a very successful program.”

In addition to the institute’s experienced team, patients also have access to more subspecialty services, including the new Torrance Memorial Movement Disorders Clinic. “The Movement Disorders Clinic is definitely meeting a need in our community,” says Heidi Assigal, senior vice president of business and operations for Torrance Memorial Physician Network. “For patients who are living with a movement disorder, traveling to an academic medical center for care may be challenging. That’s why we wanted to bring convenient, coordinated care from academic medical center experts closer to home.”

“Our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai has made Torrance Memorial even stronger. It’s led to new clinical trial access and newfound resources, investments and collaboration that come with being a part of a leading academic health system,” says Torrance Memorial CEO and president Keith Hobbs. •

Palliative Care

Teamwork gathers family, community and medical professionals for the good of the patient.

WRITTEN BY

MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

Palliative care is an approach to serious illness that focuses on quality of life, defining health care goals and gathering the patient’s community. Torrance Memorial’s interdisciplinary palliative care team is made up of registered nurses, licensed clinical social workers, licensed vocational nurses, chaplains, medical assistants, nurse practitioners and physicians. The palliative care team works closely with the nursing staff, specialists, primary care physicians, social services, dietitians, pharmacies and many other important resources for patients and their families.

What is palliative care?

Treatment for an advanced illness is a more complex scenario than treatment for a minor illness or injury. This is where palliative care is beneficial. A serious health condition creates more than just physical symptoms and the need for medication and surgery. It also has to be addressed in terms of its practical and emotional impacts on the patient and family.

Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD, is board-certified in palliative care and hospice and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. With 24 years of experience, she is the medical director for palliative

care and hospice for the Torrance Memorial Health System. She is dedicated to optimizing quality of life for her patients through building compassionate relationships with them and their families.

“What palliative care provides is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. It’s focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress,” says Dr. Dheeriya. “The care team acts as a consultant and collaborates with primary care, hospitalists and other specialists.”

Even though more people are taking advantage of palliative care, many still misunderstand its purpose. Palliative care is not end-of-life care. It can be provided at any stage of an illness alongside curative treatment.

Who is a candidate for palliative care?

A hospital or physician will recommend palliative care if the patient or the patient’s family are experiencing distress. Advanced disease and dysfunction of major organs are the most common health issues related to the need for palliative care. Many patients served by a palliative care team have advanced cancer, advanced dementia, heart failure, advanced pulmonary disease, kidney failure or neurological diseases.

Frequent hospitalizations and office visits, progressive weight loss, uncontrolled pain or other symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, immobility, high dependence on caregivers, and concerns about caregiver mental health are all important reasons to seek support from palliative care.

Some palliative care patients will transition in and out of care throughout their disease. Whatever the scenario, those with serious ongoing illnesses can benefit from treatment applied holistically, addressing the many areas of their lives affected by their conditions.

How does it work?

Palliative care provides physical, logistical and emotional support for patients and their caregivers. The patient’s medical team coordinates care through frequent communication and regularly scheduled meetings.

Treatment begins with setting goals. Palliative care providers take their time with patient evaluations, listening to their needs and priorities to create a health care plan aligning treatment with intentions.

The medical team assesses the patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs and addresses symptoms, all while identifying where the patient would benefit from therapeutic intervention.

“All hospice care is palliative, but not all palliative care is hospice,” Dr. Dheeriya says. “Palliative care is offered alongside disease-modifying treatment and includes care for the patient’s pain and symptoms and the entire family’s psychological and spiritual distress.”

What are the benefits?

Easing physical pain and treating symptoms are essential aspects of palliative care. In addition, managing a serious illness can be a challenge, so palliative care providers use their expertise to simplify the workload. They compile medical information and empower the patient by streamlining communication and ensuring family members are partners in the treatment.

Much of what the palliative care team does is unite the patient, family and community to bring in appropriate resources—from equipment to arrangements for transportation, home health aides and food delivery.

If the patient has specific language needs, the team can connect the patient with practitioners who speak the patient’s language. If a patient is experiencing spiritual or existential distress, a chaplain can visit. The team can also seek members of the patient’s spiritual community to provide support or arrange for counseling for individuals or the family. Integrative health modalities such as mindfulness practices, aromatherapy and acupuncture are supported and encouraged.

How is palliative care different from hospice?

Palliative care is offered in a clinic, at home, or in the hospital, nursing home or extended care facility and is provided by a team of health care providers. Available at any stage of a serious illness, it focuses on symptom management during treatment and support for family members.

Hospice is intended for patients with a terminal illness who have an anticipated life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice can be offered in the home or a nursing home setting. Its main focus is keeping the patient comfortable to allow peaceful transition.

It’s important to make a distinction between the two for many reasons, but the most important is hospice is end-of-life care while palliative care can be provided during any stage of a disease regardless of expected outcome. •

Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD, practices at Torrance Memorial Physician Network Palliative Care, 3285 Skypark Drive, Torrance. She can be reached at 310-784-4880.

Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD

Subdural Hematomas

INTERVIEWED BY JOHN FERRARI

Chronic subdural hematomas occur in up to 25% of people with head injuries. Torrance Memorial is offering a new procedure that provides improved options for blood clots affecting the brain. We spoke with Paula Eboli, MD, medical director of neurosurgery, for more details on this medical condition.

Paula Eboli, MD

What is a subdural hematoma?

A subdural hematoma (SDH) is a serious condition where blood collects between the skull and the surface of the brain, usually caused by a head injury or, in rare cases, spontaneously. The blood builds up in a space between the protective layers that surround your brain, putting more pressure on the brain and causing symptoms.

What causes a SDH?

The most common cause of a subdural hematoma is head injury. It could be a minor head injury, and sometimes no obvious cause is identified. It’s usually caused by tears in blood vessels that run along the surface of the brain and make them more likely to break. Anything that causes bleeding in the area between the dura and brain can lead to an acute SDH and can then evolve into a chronic SDH over a period of some weeks.

Who is at risk?

The older population, especially if taking blood thinners or antiplatelets, is at risk. Natural age-related brain shrinkage causes these tiny veins to stretch and become more vulnerable to tearing. People with a bleeding disorder or someone who has experienced a minor head injury and those with alcohol use disorder are also at higher risk of developing a SDH.

What are the symptoms of a SDH?

Chronic SDH can be asymptomatic. Early symptoms include headaches, loss of balance, numbness, weakness, confusion, speech or vision issues, nausea and vomiting. Worsening symptoms include paralysis, seizures, breathing problems, loss of consciousness and in some instances coma. The symptoms and their severity will vary depending on age, underlying medical conditions, how large the bleed is and the type of subdural hematoma one has. A CT scan or MRI may be required in these cases to find the exact cause of symptoms.

What are the treatment options for chronic SDHs?

Treatment of SDHs depends on their severity and can range from watchful waiting to brain surgery. Smaller SDHs causing mild symptoms can be treated with middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization. Patients with a large SDH with significant mass effect can benefit from surgical intervention first and potentially MMA embolization for the residual/recurrent hematoma.

How does Torrance Memorial treat SDH cases?

Torrance Memorial has been performing MMAprocedures for over a year now.

MMA is an endovascular procedure using a guided catheter to block the MMA, decreasing blood supply to the membrane adjacent to the SDH. This prevents extravasation of fluid into the subdural cavity, allowing the body to slowly reabsorb the SDH. This treatment has proven to be effective in recent clinical trials.

The hospital has a state-of-the-art suite, as well as neurointerventionalists and other medical staff to perform MMA, which requires an overnight stay in the ICU before being released. Chronic SDHs are common, so the ability to treat them with MMA embolization is a benefit for our community. This is a minimally invasive treatment that can potentially prevent the need for surgical evacuation.

How can we prevent a SDH?

The best way to prevent a SDH is to prevent head injuries by taking the following steps:

• Wearing a helmet when riding a bike or motorcycle

• Wearing appropriate head protection when participating in contact sports, such as football or boxing

• Keeping your seatbelt buckled when riding in a car

• Avoiding and removing tripping hazards in your home

• Drinking responsibly

• Talking to your health care provider about whether your prescriptions put you at higher risk of getting a subdural hematoma •

To read more, go to TorranceMemorial.org/ subduralhematomas101. Dr. Eboli practices at Torrance Memorial Neurology, 23560 Crenshaw Blvd., Suite 101. She can be reached at 310-517-7022.

Best & Simple Password Managers

While navigating the digital world can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be—especially when it comes to keeping your online security and protection in place. Because weak and reused passwords are a leading cause of security incidents, using a password manager is the best solution to protect yourself, your family and your business. Advantage shares some of the simplest and most effective password managers to help you keep your logins and sensitive information secure, organized and accessible only to you (and perhaps your closest family members).

1Password makes it easy to generate, store and autofill passwords for all your online accounts on all your devices. Just like all the other password managers, it works to keep your information encrypted and secure. It can also safely store your sensitive documents, banking information, medical records and more. It’s easy to share those items and collaborate securely as well.

Dashlane is a great option when it comes to password managers, especially since it’s more than just the essentials. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, its intuitive design means you can start storing and securing your passwords with minimal fuss. Dashlane’s blend of robust security features and a userfriendly interface makes it a great choice. It also has extras like a quality VPN (virtual private network) and real-time dark web monitoring.

Keeper is one of the most secure and feature-rich password managers and a great option for seniors. It’s easy to find what you need both on desktop and mobile apps. It uses the industry standard encryption for overall password and app security but also has zeroknowledge architecture, so even the company itself doesn’t have access to user accounts. Keeper has some unique features including KeeperChat for safely sharing photos, documents and other sensitive information.

Like some of the other password manager programs, LogMeOnce offers additional security services including a password manager, identity theft protection and a cloud encrypter all rolled into one!

The NordPass app, minimalistic and intuitive in design, is one of the top-rated password managers on the market. Creating an account with NordPass is simple. It provides an uncomplicated process for adding, deleting, importing and exporting passwords. NordPass has an excellent free version, while the paid version includes emergency access, Password Health, Data Breach Scanner and item-sharing functionalities.

The RoboForm Password eWallet not only provides passwords but also any account information a user is likely to need online, such as bank account or credit card information. You can easily generate and save passwords, utilize one-click logins and form filling, scan for compromised passwords, and enjoy secure sharing with trusted contacts without the risk of exposing sensitive data. •

Note: Some apps are free with limitations, but monthly or annual costs are typically associated with these apps. Visit the app store for pricing details.

Strange Changes

WRITTEN BY DIANE KRIEGER

No one’s immortal. People of all ages know this, though most try to sweep the knowledge under the rug. For older adults, it gets harder to ignore as they’re pelted with daily reminders.

From achy fingers to crepey skin, ordinary age-related changes abound in later life. Don’t let them get you down. Though we can’t turn back the clock, we can understand what makes it tick. Here are some helpful explanations and suggestions for ways to live gracefully with common age-related changes.

Simple steps can make a big difference in dealing with some of the natural effects of aging.

Scales of Injustice

The Bad News: It’s normal to gain weight (on average, 1 to 2 pounds per year) across the adult lifespan, but stepping on the scale becomes downright scary in the autumn years.

Why? Because metabolism slows down as you age, meaning your body burns fewer calories. No matter what your activity level, once you hit your 50s to early 60s, the USDA daily calorie recommendations drop by 200 for both men and women. This means if you continue to eat the same amount as usual, you’ll pile on the pounds.

The Good News: Your ideal weight may be higher than you think. Research suggests carrying some extra fat can be protective later in life. According to one reputable study, older adults with the lowest risk of premature death had BMIs of 27 to 28, which would qualify as “overweight” under general World Health Organization standards. Here’s why a little more fat can be beneficial: Should you fall, the extra padding could protect against fractures. And should you become seriously ill with—say with cancer or kidney disease—stored fat can be a source of energy to help your body tolerate harsh therapies.

Feeling Crepey

The Bad News: Your face no longer has that plump, smooth glow of yesteryear. Age spots burst forth and expand. On top of wrinkles, there’s now “crepey” skin on your neck and arms. Thinner skin means easier bruising and tearing. A slight bump against the doorknob can leave ugly purple marks, and the prick of a rose thorn cuts like a knife.

Why? Once again, chalk it up to metabolic changes. As we age, less fat accumulates under the skin, resulting in dryness and thinning. UV damage also plays a part. A lifetime of limiting sun exposure and refraining from smoking can delay these changes, but ultimately the effects of time—crepey skin, easy pricking and bruising, and pigment changes—cannot be prevented.

The Good News: Many treatments are available, and they aren’t necessarily exotic or expensive. Remember to moisturize your skin daily. For really dry skin, try ordinary coconut oil. Other popular home remedies: Massage your face, arms and legs regularly. Exfoliate with a homemade sugar-and-olive oil scrub once or twice a week. Over-thecounter products containing retinol, which helps skin cells regenerate, may actually reverse crepey skin. Collagen and biotin supplements might also help. For bruising, apply ice immediately to slow blood leaking into the surrounding tissue. Treat with topical arnica, a popular homeopathic herb known to reduce inflammation, swelling and bruising.

Achy Breaky Hands

The Bad News: Your fingers start to look knobby, and your pinkie has taken a crooked turn. Simple things like unscrewing a jar or typing on the keyboard begin to really hurt.

Why? Over the years, joints in the hands get a lot of wear and tear. A slippery tissue called “articular cartilage” covers the ends of bones, allowing joints to move smoothly. But as this cartilage gradually decreases with age, inflammation and hand pain arrive in the form of osteoarthritis, or OA.

The Good News: There are many over-the-counter remedies for OA pain. Voltaren (diclofenac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel. Arnica oil—available in cream, balm, gel or ointment—also provides pain relief. Although clinical research has yet to prove their efficacy in treating OA, many patients report tangible benefits from daily supplements of glucosamine and turmeric.

Trips to the Loo, My Darling

The Bad News: Is four trips a night normal? And why does sneezing now involve two orifices?

Why? Because your bladder becomes less elastic with age, resulting in imperfect bladder control and the need to urinate more often. In men, an enlarged or inflamed prostate can cause urinary incontinence and difficulty in emptying the bladder.

The Good News: You can promote bladder and urinary tract health by adopting new habits, such as making a pit stop regularly. Start with a restroom visit every hour, then slowly extend the amount of time between trips. Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles with Kegel exercises. It’s easy: Squeeze the muscles you’d use to stop urinating, hold it for 3 seconds, then relax for a count of three. Work up to doing the exercise 10 to 15 times in a row, at least three times a day. And avoid dietary bladder irritants, such as caffeine, acidic foods, alcohol and carbonated drinks, which can exacerbate powder-room problems. •

Wellness Classes

3105 Lomita Blvd., Torrance

To register, call 310–517–4711

8-week class: $80 (ADVANTAGE members $72) 4-week class: $40 (ADVANTAGE members $36)

For more information, call 310-517-4666 or visit TorranceMemorial.org/classes

Essentrics Full–Body Stretch with Ai (in–person only)

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

Monday, 11 to 11:50 a.m.

A gentle, full-body stretch to activate muscles, free joints and increase mobility. Bring a yoga mat.

Chair Yoga for Strength and Balances with Sharmone (in-person or Zoom)

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

April 4–25, May 9–June 27

Monday or Thursday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Use a chair in seated and standing poses to improve strength and balance.

Mat/Floor Pilates with Karen (in-person only)

April 2–23, May 14–July 2

Tuesday, 4 to 4:50 p.m.

All-levels class strengthens core muscles to improve balance. Moderate fitness level needed. Bring a mat.

Qi Gong with Gayla (Zoom only)

April 4–25, May 14–July 2

Thursday, 9 to 10:15 a.m.

Powerful, gentle movement and meditation to rejuvenate, strengthen, relax.

Beginning Tai Chi with Richard (Zoom only)

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

Tuesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

An introduction to the form of this Chinese exercise that inspires well-being.

Yoga for Wellness with Debi

(in-person or Zoom)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Correct posture alignment and increasing strength, flexibility and range of motion.

Chair Yoga for Osteoporosis with Debi (in-person or Zoom)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 11 a.m. to noon

Designed for those with osteopenia or osteoporosis; strengthen muscles and bones, improve posture and balance, fall prevention, breath work. All levels.

Yoga for Osteoporosis with Debi (in-person or Zoom)

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

Tuesday, 11:00 to 12:15 p.m.

Poses and breath work help stimulate bone growth, improve flexibility, strength, range of motion, posture, balance. Floor, chair and standing poses. Bring a mat.

Intermediate Tai Chi with Richard (Zoom only)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.

Learn how to complete the form.

Advanced Tai Chi With Richard (Zoom only)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Go deeper into refining movements, leading to improved health and focus.

Integrated Yoga with Robin (in-person or Zoom)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 7 to 8 p.m.

Breath work, postures and meditation, such as yoga nidra.

Miracle of Living

Join us at 6:30 p.m. in person or via Zoom for Torrance Memorials’s popular health lecture series.

Hoffman Health Conference Center, 3315 Medical Center Drive. Visit TorranceMemorial.org/mol for details.

April 17

Health & Fitness

Yoga Basics With Laura (Zoom only)

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

Monday 4 to 5 p.m.

Gentle yoga poses on the floor and standing, breath work, meditation.

Line Dancing Beyond “Country” With Sharon (in-person or Zoom)

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

Wednesday, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Learn Country Western favorites, along with cha-cha, mambo, tango and samba in line dancing style. No partner needed.

Stretching For Better Balance: Beginning & Intermediate With Randy (Zoom only)

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

April 4–25, May 10–June 28

Tuesday or Thursday, 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Increases flexibility and mobility to help prevent injuries.

Muscle Strengthening: Beginning and Intermediate with Randy (Zoom only)

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

April 5–26, May 10–June 28

Tuesday or Friday, 11 to 11:50 a.m.

Strengthen your upper and lower body using flexible exercise bands.

May 15

Aging With Confidence

June 19

Happy Feet

Past lectures include cancer prevention; sports injury prevention and other orthopedic issues; heart disease, diabetes and stroke, valve and peripheral artery disease; and a variety of psychological topics such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and violence. Videos are available on demand at TorranceMemorial.org/mol.

Wellness Classes

Malaga Cove - 2550 Via Tejon, Palos Verdes Estates

To register, call 310–517–4711. All clases are in-person only.

8-week class: $80 (ADVANTAGE members $72) 4-week class: $40 (ADVANTAGE members $36)

For more information, call 310-517-4666 or visit TorranceMemorial.org/classes

Menopause 101

April 26

Friday, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Explore techniques to navigate this new chapter with confidence in a supportive group environment. Led by Ann Boss, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. One night only, $15.

Chair Exercise: Beginning & Intermediate with Pam

April 4–25, May 9–June 27

Thursday, 9 to 10 a.m.

Improve strength and endurance using a chair. Bring an exercise band.

Bones for Life with Joy

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

Monday, 3:30 to 4:30

Feldenkrais Method weight-bearing exercises improve posture and bone health with no strain or pain.

Align the Spine with Joy

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

Monday, 9 to 10 a.m.

Feldenkrais Method lessons help restore posture without pain or strain. Bring an exercise mat, hand and bath towel.

Stretching For Better Balance with Randy

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

April 4–25, May 9–June 27

Monday or Thursday, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.

Yoga for Stress Reduction with Debi

April 6–27, May 11–June 29

Saturday, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Gentle yoga poses on the floor, seated and standing, breath work and meditation to increase flexibility, strengthen the body and improve balance.

Stretch & Sound Bath Meditation with Ai

April 3–24, May 8–June 26

April 6–27, May 11–June 29

Wednesday, 9:30 to 10:20 a.m.

Saturday, 12:30 to 1:20 p.m.

Gentle stretch, breath work, sounds and vibrations from sound bath instruments. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow.

Muscle Strengthening: Beginning & Intermediate with

Randy

April 1–22, May 6–July 1

April 4–25, May 9–June 27

Mobility & Movement Slow Yoga Flow with Jacque

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

Tuesday, 10 to 11 a.m.

Movements to loosen stiff joints and muscles and ease rotation.

Chair Yoga for Back & Shoulders with Jacque

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

Tuesday, noon to 1 p.m.

Improve back, shoulder and neck pain and tension while using a chair.

Passive Release Restorative Yoga with Jacque

April 2–23, May 7–June 25

Tuesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

A passive yin yoga class on the mat with gentle poses for the body’s deep release.

Essentrics Full–Body Stretch with Ai

New to this location!

May 11–June 29

Saturday, 11:15-12:05 pm.

A gentle, full-body stretch to activate muscles, free joints and increase mobility. Bring a yoga mat.

Chair Exercise for Posture & Walking with

Joy

New class!

May 6–July 1

Monday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Work out in a chair to increase flexibility prevent injuries.

Monday or Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Strengthen upper and lower body using a chair and flexible exercise bands.

Feldenkrais Method classes to improve posture and walking taught by a physical therapist and certified practitioner.

Advantage Online Support Groups

Bariatric General Support Group

Join us for a virtual informative seminar to learn how weight loss (bariatric) surgery can help you. Attendance is highly recommended before making an appointment for weight loss surgery consultation. For more information and to register, call 310-517-4711.

Bereavement Support Group

Meet in a caring and safe environment with other people experiencing grief or loss. Groups consist of eight to 10 members and meet once weekly for six to eight weeks, for 90 minutes. To participate or for more information contact Olivia Licea at 310-703-3352.

Between Starving and Stuffed

This interactive and virtual program teaches skills to live a healthy lifestyle for a healthy weight and other life goals. Group meets second and third Thursdays, 6 to 7:30 pm. For more information, call 310-517-4711.

Cancer & Nutrition

Whether you are currently going through cancer treatment, have had cancer in the past, or simply looking for general nutrition guidelines to help prevent the development of cancer, this class is for you! This class focuses on the role good nutrition plays in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. Meets every

second Thursday, 5 to 6 p.m. via Zoom. Call 310-517-4711 for information.

Caregivers Support Group

Information and nurturing support for people providing care for another. All types of caregivers are welcome. To receive the Caregiver Packet, please email Vickie Hershberger at vickie.hershberger@ tmmc.com. For meeting dates and times, call 310-517-4701.

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

This peer-based support group is for those dealing with mood disorders. This virtual support group meets on the second and fourth Saturdays, 10 am to noon, and the first and third Thursdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (dbsasouthbay.org). Contact Scott Wood at 310-497-8801 or woodscott516@yahoo.com or Barbie Johnson at 310-293-9185.

Diabetes Support Group

Join us and share with others who understand what is like to live with diabetes. Bring your tips and techniques along with your questions! Group meets on fourth Fridays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Center (formerly the Specialty Center) at 2841 Lomita Blvd, Suite 335. Registration is not required. For questions call 310-517-4711.

Financial Health Checkup

Join Torrance Memorial’s Professional Advisory Council for its series on a variety of financial topics to help you take care of your financial health. Seminars are strictly educational and will be held on select Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Torrance Memorial Hoffman Health Conference Center, 3315 Medical Center Drive. A Zoom option is also available. RSVP to Kristin Kamienski at 310-517-4728 or foundation@tmmc.com.

May 11

Savvy Social Security Planning Maximize your Social Security benefits by applying at the right time and avoiding costly mistakes that can result from poor planning.

July 13

Boot Camp for the Executor

Learn the duties and responsibilities of being named the executor of someone’s estate and how preparation today can mitigate challenges in the future.

Torrance Memorial Medical Center

310-325-9110

TorranceMemorial.org

ADVANTAGE Program Information

310-517-4666

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Torrance Memorial IPA

Learn More: 310-257-7239 TorranceMemorialIPA.org

Members: Toll-Free: 866-568-4472 TTY/TDD: 711

Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Torrance Memorial Physician Network

310-891-6717 TMPhysicianNetwork.org

Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

If you do not wish to receive future issues of this publication, please email publications@tmmc.com with your name and complete address as it appears on the mailing panel.

3330 Lomita Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90505-5073

WHEN YOU NEED EXPERT CARE, TORRANCE MEMORIAL IS HERE FOR YOU.

Emergencies happen. Don’t delay care for heart attacks, strokes, falls or other urgent health situations. Torrance Memorial’s Emergency Department is safe, ready and open. If you think you are having a heart attack or stroke, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department if you are experiencing symptoms.

Comprehensive Stroke Center – Torrance Memorial emergency care staff are trained to identify the signs of stroke early and deliver early intervention care that limits damaging effects.

Emergency Department Approved for Pediatric Patients –Torrance Memorial is a designated Emergency Department

Approved for Pediatrics by L.A. County Department of Health Services.

L.A. County Paramedic Base Station – Torrance Memorial’s 24-hour Emergency Department serves as a paramedic base station.

STEMI (Heart Attack) Receiving Center – Torrance Memorial is a STEMI-receiving hospital, and has the equipment, expertise and facilities to administer percutaneous coronary intervention, a mechanical means of treating heart attack patients.