Advantage

ADVANTAGE ISSUE #23 SPRING 2022

Healthy Living Over 50

In this issue 1

Cover Story: Getting Athletic Over 50

4

Look Who’s Coming to El Segundo

6 Fight Fatigue with Healthy Habits

8 What to Ask Your GYN as You Age

10 12 Tips for a Happy Retirement 12 Calendar: Upcoming Classes

14 8 Great Websites Dedicated to Seniors

15 Support Groups and Events

COVER STORY

Trying to get back in shape can be frustrating at any age, but it can be even more discouraging when you’re older and wonder if it’s even possible. Rest assured, getting fit over 50 is absolutely possible.

Getting Athletic Over 50 How and why to get off the couch WRITTEN BY DANA KLOSNER

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t’s no secret we need to stay active as we age. It’s good for us physically and helps keep us socially and emotionally balanced as well. But what if you’ve been a couch potato your entire life? It’s never too late to start.

For Barry Morrill, 67, of Torrance, the wake-up call came when he was 56. At his annual checkup, his doctor told him he had fatty tissue growing around his liver the same way an alcoholic would. He was in the initial stages of hypertension, and his cho-

lesterol wasn’t looking good.

“My doctor gave me six months to change my lifestyle, or I was going to have to go on pills,” Morrill says.

He always liked walking, so he set his sights on running—taking one step at a time.

COVER STORY

On his first try, he was completely out of breath after one short block. Not deterred, he walked until he made a 3-mile loop. From there he continued mixing running with walking until he did his first 5K. Now, 11 years later, he has run five marathons and a 62-mile race that took 21 hours. And just for fun, he runs from Torrance to Santa Monica on The Strand.

The physical benefits are astounding. He lost 65 pounds—bringing him down to a healthy weight. The fatty tissue around his liver is gone,

and his blood pressure and cholesterol are excellent.

The social and emotional benefits are off the charts as well. After reaching his goals, he set out to help other people who are just starting. He now coaches new runners with the South Bay Runners Club and the L.A. Leggers—the oldest marathon training club in Los Angeles.

“I love to see new people,” he says.

“People come with this goal as though it was crazy—wanting to run their first 5K, 10K, half or even full marathon.

The look of joy and accomplishment on their faces when they cross the finish line brings a tear to my eye.”

If you’re looking for something a little easier on the joints, you could try swimming. Bob Goodis, DDS, 65, of Redondo Beach, was feeling a bit lethargic when he would take his daughter—who swam competitively– to practice and see how lean and fit all the people were at the pool. At one of those practices, Goodis, who was then 50 years old, met Clay Evans, cofounder with Bonnie Adair of Southern

A combination of cardiovascular activity with weight-bearing exercise for 30 to 45 minutes, three to five days a week, for a total of 150 minutes a week is recommended to increase oxygen intake and improve overall bone health, among other benefits.

2 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

If you haven’t been active in a while, start slow, go at your own pace and build up to your goals.

It’s never too late to get started!

Need to See a Doctor?

Call Our Physician Referral Coordinator to Schedule An Appointment.

310-891-6717 Nima Moghadam, MD California Aquatics (SCAQ).

SCAQ is the largest Master’s swimming program in the country. Anyone can start at any level. Goodis wasn’t a complete couch potato, but at that point he was burned out on the gym scene and thought he would give swimming a shot.

“Clay told me to show up at the pool at 5:30 in the morning,” Goodis says. “It was the dead of winter, and it was an outdoor pool. I swam 25 yards—the width of the pool. I couldn’t get to the other side of the pool. I was so exhausted, I couldn’t catch my breath. When I swam back to the other side, I [jokingly] said, ‘Call 911.’ Clay said, ‘I’ll see you tomorrow.’ I came back the next morning, and I kept coming back until I found a groove and fell in love with it.”

Goodis continued his early-morning swim routine and met a great community of people. Then he started setting goals.

He wanted to knock off some weight, control his type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. He picked up extra workouts.

He lost the weight, his diabetes is under control and his blood pressure is excellent.

Then it was time to set swimming goals.

“You’re always swimming against the clock,” he says. “I wanted to do 100 meters in 1 minute 40 seconds.”

He reached that goal and went to the next level—open water competitions in the ocean. He’s done the Pier to Pier

Internal Medicine 3701 Skypark Dr., Suite 100 Torrance 310-378-2234

Betty Lo, MD

2-mile race between the Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach piers several times and the Waikiki Roughwater Swim.

“When things in life get me down and out, I say, ‘Hey it’s time to swim,’” he shares. “It’s saved me emotionally, physically and mentally. I always tell Clay he saved my life, and I really mean that.”

Mona Madani, MD, a primary care physician with Torrance Memorial Medical Center, couldn’t agree more. “Exercising releases endorphins that help with mood, and it is an outlet to relieve stress,” she says.

In some cases, exercising regularly can keep you off medications. It is recommended that you combine cardiovascular activity with weight-bearing exercise for 30 to 45 minutes, three to five days a week, for a total of 150 minutes a week.

This routine reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers. It can relieve arthritis pain, increase oxygen intake and improve your overall bone health.

No matter your age or physical activity level, it’s never too late to start exercising with a purpose. What are you waiting for?

It’s time to get off the couch. •

Family Medicine 3701 Skypark Dr., Suite 100 Torrance 310-378-2234

Sadia Khan, MD

Internal Medicine 3333 Skypark Dr., Suite 160 Torrance 310-517-9006

Lorena Layrisse Landaeta, MD

Internal Medicine, Geriatrics 602 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 300 Rolling Hills Estates 310-517-4692

Alya Torna, MD

Family Medicine 29409 S. Western Ave. Rancho Palos Verdes 310-891-6684

Mona Madani, MD

Family Medicine 705 Pier Avenue, Suite A Hermosa Beach 310-891-6708

Offices located in: Torrance, Carson, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Palos Verdes

Appointments scheduled M-F , 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TMPhysicianNetwork.org

Issue #23 Spring 2022

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HEALTHY LIVING

Look Who’s Coming to El Segundo With the grand opening this month of Torrance Memorial’s brand-new, family-focused El Segundo Medical Complex, we are pleased to introduce our outstanding team of physicians who will be working in this exciting state-ofthe-art facility. By bringing this team of experts together to cover a range of services in one location, we hope to make the health care experience as pleasant, efficient and easily accessible as possible.

PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS

Dr. Rumi Cader is boardcertified in internal medicine. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology and business administration from the University of California at Los Angeles and earned his medical degree from the Drew/ UCLA Medical Education Program and the Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago.

Dr. Mona Madani is board-certified in family medicine. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and went on to complete her medical degree at Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica and her residency training at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

Torrance Memorial Physician Network OB-GYN specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, treating the full spectrum of OB-GYN-related issues, starting from adolescence throughout adulthood and into menopause.

4 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

Dr. Matthew Mejia is board-certified in family medicine with a certificate of added qualification in sports medicine. He received his undergraduate degree from Loyola Marymount University and earned a Master of Public Health degree at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. He completed his medical degree at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and his residency in family medicine at HarborUCLA Medical Center.

He also did a fellowship in primary care sports medicine at the CedarsSinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute.

SPECIALTY PHYSICIANS/SERVICES

Dr. Nidhi Agarwal is a board-certified endocrinologist. She graduated from the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences medical school in India and later moved to the United States. She completed her residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. She then went on to fellowship training in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism at the University of Tennessee, where she was the chief endocrine fellow. She also served as a USC research assistant.

Patients who are experiencing an injury, acute illness or another condition that requires prompt, nonemergency care can receive efficient diagnosis and treatment at the 6,000-square-foot Torrance Memorial Physician Network Urgent Care. Three providers, seven exam rooms, two procedure rooms, integrated x-ray access and a blood draw station are all on site.

Dr. Jamie Kagihara is triple board-certified in internal medicine, pulmonology and critical care. She completed her pulmonary and critical care fellowship at the University of Southern California, where she pursued her interests in mycobacterial and interstitial lung disease.

Dr. Kagihara was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, and earned her medical degree at the John A. Burns School of Medicine. She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she was recognized as resident of the year.

Dr. Syed Jilani is a boardcertified oncologisthematologist. He completed his internal medicine training at the University of Missouri and then trained in hematology-oncology at UCLA, where he became a researcher and instructor. An expert in the treatment of hematologic malignancies along with breast, lung, prostate and colon cancer, Dr. Jilani serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

In addition to x-ray imaging services, we will also feature on-site, state-of-the-art CT scans and ultrasound technology (beginning early fall 2022).

Additional Specialty Physician Clinics COR Healthcare Medical Associates, Digestive Care Consultants, Association of South Bay Surgeons, Beach Cities ENTS, Gynecologic Associates and South Bay Gastroenterology

The Torrance Memorial El Segundo Medical Complex is located at 2110 E. El Segundo Blvd., El Segundo.

Issue #23 Spring 2022

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FEATURE

Fight Fatigue with Healthy Habits Exercise and good sleep hygiene support energy levels.

WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

Understanding the causes of fatigue can help you combat it.

Knowledge is power, and recognizing the symptoms related to fatigue along with adapting some healthier lifestyle choices can help you overcome it.

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n occasional night of poor sleep, a day of feeling fatigued or an afternoon drop in energy are all common experiences for seniors.

Fatigue is a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent health issue.

Feeling fatigued can become a vicious cycle, affecting your physical and mental health. Moe Gelbart, PhD, director of

behavioral health at Torrance Memorial, says energy and mood go hand in hand.

“Your mood affects fatigue. If someone is depressed and sad, or down and anxious, one of the symptoms is fatigue.

If someone is feeling serious fatigue, it will cause them to feel depressed,” he says.

See your primary care physician and do what you can to address the cycle of

6 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

poor mood and low energy. “Avoid the misuse of alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and the overuse of prescription drugs. Get help if you’re feeling depressed,” Dr. Gelbart says. “Fatigue for a 55-and-up individual can be caused by several things including medical problems and insomnia. Insomnia is a significant factor for the elderly, and it causes fatigue.”

Seniors often nap, Dr. Gelbart says.

A short nap is restorative, but after 30 minutes a nap can affect the sleep cycle.

Healthy sleep habits overall will prevent fatigue and low mood.

A good sleep environment includes blackout shades, using the bed only for sleep (not for watching TV) and keeping the room cool. Don’t eat heavy foods or consume alcohol or caffeine close to bedtime. Address digital intake by putting away computers, phones and tablets an hour before it’s time to wind down.

Otherwise, understanding energy ebbs and flows and times of rest are part of being human will support positive mood levels. “People are going to be tired, and they need to understand this is part of life,” Dr. Gelbart says. “Accept the fatigue and give yourself rest time. Don’t feel you have to always be doing things or getting things accomplished.

He adds: “Maintaining relationships is also important. If you’re not communicating with people and keeping things inside, I think of it as carrying a lot of weight. You’re burdened, you’re tired, you’re fatigued.”

Depression can cause individuals to overuse alcohol and avoid exercise.

Similarly, insomnia and stress can create unhealthy lifestyle patterns.

No matter how the patterns begin, they often lead to fatigue, which only exacerbates the problem.

“Get help if you’re feeling depressed.

As we get older, we experience different losses and changes,” Dr. Gelbart says.

“Seniors have significant life issues. If they don’t want to address them, then they will potentially cause some sadness and depression.”

Yolande Mavity, a physical therapist, geriatric clinical specialist and lead in the outpatient rehabilitation department at Torrance Memorial, says fatigue can arise from many different physical

issues. It can be related to nutrients in the blood, a lack of adequate fluids or being out of shape.

“Especially during COVID-19, some of our seniors have not been getting out as much,” she says. “Gyms were closed, and they were not getting enough exercise.

Oftentimes we don’t sleep well when we’re not getting enough physical activity.”

For fatigue related to deconditioning, Mavity recommends beginning with light exercise and gradually increasing it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week.

That can be divided into 30 minutes per day, five days a week. Mavity says it’s fine to split up the 30 minutes into 10-minute bouts.

She says using a walker is a great idea if it makes an individual safer and able to walk farther. Finding motivation can be as simple as scheduling time to exercise or finding a partner. Getting started can be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort.

Exercise improves everything from mood to memory.

“Once we stop, it’s easy to stay stopped.

But it really makes a big difference in quality of life and how you feel,” Mavity says. “The more you do, the less fatigue you’ll feel. We want people to stay at a pretty good fitness level because it protects the brain from any cognitive deficits. Exercise keeps the brain strong.”

Breathing exercises and meditation apps can help individuals relax and fall asleep more easily. Dr. Gelbart recommends a breathing exercise that starts with a fourcount inhale, hold for seven counts and exhale for eight counts.

“First and foremost, if your fatigue seems unusual and has come on quickly, you should schedule a physical with your primary care physician and review your current medications. The best path forward is to take matters into your own hands and ask yourself, ‘How can I improve my general mental and physical health?’” •

Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician and do what you can to address poor mood and low energy cycles.

Issue #23 Spring 2022

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ASK THE DOCTOR

What to Ask Your Gynecologist as You Age WRITTEN BY DANA KLOSNER

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any women over age 50 think they no longer need to see their gynecologist— especially if they are postmenopausal. Just the opposite is true. Joseph Roofeh, MD, a Torrance Memorial Physician Network OB-GYN, recommends that women continue with their annual visits throughout their lifetime. It is true, however, that the reasons for these visits change as you age. You will find new screening schedules and issues to discuss.

How often should I have pap smears, mammograms and pelvic exams?

It is recommended that women over age 50 continue with regular gynecologist (GYN) visits annually throughout their lifetime. Torrance Memorial Physician Network GYN specialists offer a patient-centered care experience for the whole woman and her unique needs at every stage of life.

Pap smear: This procedure detects abnormal growth in cervical cells. These abnormal cells are a precursor to cervical cancer, and early detection is vital to the prevention of cancer. If you are between the ages of 50 and 65, continue to have a pap smear every three years. If you are over 65 and have had clear tests your entire life, you don’t need to have them anymore since the risk of cervical cancer decreases with age and it takes a long time to arise. If you have had some abnormal results in the past, after three consecutive normal tests you no longer need them.

Mammogram: Continue to have an annual mammogram until age 75. After that, the risk of breast cancer is so low the screening doesn’t add any benefit.

8 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

Pelvic Exam: During a pelvic exam, your doctor checks for indications of ovarian or uterine cancer. Since there are no screenings for these, you must continue to have pelvic exams annually.

Sometimes I pee when I sneeze. Is incontinence just a part of aging?

Incontinence does not happen to everyone, but it is common. More than half of women over age 50 have some issues with it. Treatment begins with lifestyle changes including cutting out caffeine and alcohol, pelvic floor physical therapy including Kegels, and keeping a voiding diary with timed voids to prevent overfilling the bladder. If the problem persists, you may opt for a vaginal pessary. This is a noninvasive, in-office process where the pessary is inserted into the vaginal canal. It may not be ideal for women who are sexually active since it blocks part of the canal and must be removed before intercourse. Another

successful treatment is a midurethral sling, which requires surgery.

Are there treatments for low libido and painful sex?

When you are postmenopausal, your ovaries no longer produce hormones.

This could decrease your sex drive and cause vaginal dryness. Hormone replacement therapy could increase your libido and helps with moisturization and lubrication, which usually relieves the pain experienced during sex.

We Fight Cancer One Breakthrough At a Time

Is osteoporosis inevitable?

Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk, but this disease may be slowed or prevented by taking vitamin D and calcium supplements and exercise— both weight-bearing and aerobic.

What symptoms need immediate medical attention?

Pelvic pain: This could be caused by an infection, or it could be something more serious like ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer or a mass arising from the uterus.

Changes in your breasts: You should be aware of your breast shape and where you have denser breast tissue. If you notice any abnormalities, nipple discharge or masses, seek medical care.

It is recommended that women continue with their annual mammogram until age 75.

Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding: Most of the time this is caused by atrophy—the lining is dry and thin and causes a little bit of bleeding. It could be more serious and a sign of uterine cancer. •

THE HUNT CANCER INSTITUTE OFFERS THE LATEST ADVANCEMENTS IN CANCER CARE AND RESEARCH. Torrance Memorial is now part of Cedars-Sinai’s extensive cancer clinical trials program.

Learn more at TorranceMemorial.org/Cancer

Torrance Memorial has four OB-GYN offices to serve you. Carson: 824 E. Carson St., Suite 203, 310-543-5448; Redondo Beach: 510 N. Prospect Ave., Suite 320, 310-376-2716; Rancho Palos Verdes: 29409 S. Western Ave., 310-784-6848; Torrance: 2841 Lomita Blvd., Suite 200, 310-784-6822 Issue #23 Spring 2022

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PRIME TIME

It’s never too early to start planning for retirement. If you can meet your essential needs today, start saving and take care of your future needs as well and you will be a step ahead for your future.

12 Tips for a Happy Retirement WRITTEN BY JILL BIGGINS GERBRACHT

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uccess in retirement can be defined as waking up in the morning and going to sleep at night and doing exactly what you want in between.

The key to achieving an active, satisfying and happy retirement involves more than just having adequate savings. It also entails interesting leisure activities, creative pursuits, and mental and physical well-being.

Retiring from the workforce can be a chance to reconnect with your greatest passions and most important goals—it all depends on what you choose to do in your retirement. You can try new experiences, develop new skills and devote more time to the people and hobbies you love. It’s all up to you.

We’ve got some great tips to help you make the most of your newfound freedom: 1. Write down exactly what you want your life to look like during retirement. Develop a plan to make it happen. Retirement planning often has more to do with “what you’ll be doing” than “how much you’ll have to do it with.” Writing down your goals will help you focus on what you want to achieve.

10 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

2. Get your finances in order. Organize your money so you know what you will have to live on. Gradually reducing spending leading up to retirement will make it easier to adjust.

3. Wind down gently. By easing into retirement, you will be able to adjust to this new way of life with a smoother transition.

4. Prepare for ups and downs. Remember, in life anything can happen, and the same holds true for retirement. If health or changes in your relationships arise, learn to accept them and develop a backup plan of action.

5. Keep physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week (see pages 12–13 for Torrance Memorial classes).

6. Develop a routine. A routine provides a sense of normalcy. Going to bed and getting up at the same time—combined with regular activities like exercise, volunteer work and hobbies—will give you a sense of purpose.

7. Seek social support. For many people, work contributes to a large part of their social life. So it is common to feel a bit lonely outside that environment. Fill the gaps by joining clubs and groups.

8. Go for a health check. An annual visit with your primary care physician is a preventive type of care and will keep health issues from progressing. If you get regular checkups, your doctor will notice any differences or health changes you might not be aware of.

9. Pamper yourself. After all that hard work, you are due for some “me time.” A spa day or small pleasure like dining out or going to an afternoon movie will serve as a fun outlet and way to treat yourself to something special.

83%

41%

43%

including Medicare HMO & PPO, Supplements (Medi-gap) and Part D Prescription Plans.

RSVP today!

Give Back

Learn

Make or Expand Social Connections

Have Fun

Connect with Family

Relax

Get or Stay Healthy

Grow Spiritually

47%

56%

58%

60 70

57%

72%

Learn about your options

50 30 40 20

ARE YOU TURNING 65 ON A RETIREE PLAN?

Call 310-257-7239 or visit TorranceMemorialIPA.org/Medicare101 for dates and times

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DO YOU HAVE MEDICARE?

According to a Merrill Lynch survey, here is what retired respondents were looking to accomplish through their everyday activities:

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90 100

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10. Volunteer. The benefits of volunteering speak volumes, and there are plenty of opportunities to give back to the local community.

Torrance Memorial’s Auxiliary volunteer program is one way to get involved.

11. Travel more. Whether it’s a longer European vacation or a weekend getaway to the desert, you can finally make those long-dreamedof plans a reality. Even days out to places you’ve never visited are good for the soul.

12. Try something new. Map your family tree, learn to paint, plant a vegetable garden, start a new hobby. The list goes on, but now is the time you can do what you’ve always wanted to! •

Issue #23 Spring 2022

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Upcoming Classes, Events & Support Groups ADVANTAGE Calendar Spring 2022 All classes are online and conducted over Zoom. Call 310-517-4711 to register for all paid classes. Each 8-week session is $80 ($72 for ADVANTAGE members).

Stretching for Better Balance with Randy May 2 – June 27 May 12 – June 30 This fun workout done in a chair is designed to help increase flexibility and mobility to help prevent injuries. Monday or Thursday, 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Lymphatic Flow Chair Yoga with Sharmone May 2 – June 27 A yoga class adapted to a seated chair position with the goal of gently stimulating lymphatic flow, which is especially helpful for those with compromised immune systems. It can reduce swelling and aid the body’s ability to ward off colds and flu.

Monday, 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.

Muscle Strengthening With Randy May 2 – June 27 May 12 – June 30 Learn correct, safe techniques for strengthening your upper and lower body using a chair and flexible exercise bands.

Monday or Thursday, 11 to 11:45 a.m.

Yoga basics May 2 – June 27 (Laura) May 10 – June 28 (Valyn) May 12 ­– June 30 (Sharmone) Harmonize body, mind and spirit through gentle stretching exercises, traditional yoga poses, breathing techniques and guided relaxation.

Monday with Laura, 4 to 5 p.m.; Tuesday with Valyn, 5 to 6 p.m.; Thursday with Sharmone, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Dump the Slump with Lorrie May 2 – June 27 Forward-leaning shoulders and a sunken chest are becoming almost universal in today’s society. Forward head posture known as “text neck” is plaguing many of us, causing neck and shoulder pain. This gentle yoga class focuses on strengthening weak postural muscles and improving postural alignment, which can help improve overall health and wellbeing. Floor, chair and standing poses.

Must be able to get up and down from the floor. Yoga mat, strap, chair and yoga block required. Monday, 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.

Somatic Yoga Therapy with Farzaneh May 10 – June 28 Based on neurophysiology science designed to increase range of motion, flexibility, balance and strength. Perfect

12 ADVANTAGE / Torrance Memorial, a Cedars-Sinai Affiliate

for those seeking freedom within range of motion and a desire to do yoga with comfort. Tuesday, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Yoga for Osteoporosis with Debi May 10 – June 28 Class focus is on poses, breath work and body awareness to stimulate bone growth, and range of motion in joints.

Floor, chairs and standing poses. Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Beginner Stretch, Strength & Balance with Pam May 10 – June 28 Exercise with a tube or band to promote strength and stamina while standing, seated or on the floor. Wear comfortable clothes. Need a tube or band, a mat and a towel. Tuesday, 10 to 11 a.m.

Beginning Tai Chi with Richard May 10 – June 28 A sophisticated Chinese exercise that inspires physical and mental well-being.

This class is an introduction to the form.

It consists of slow, graceful, circular movements that improve balance and coordination. Tuesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Intermediate Tai Chi with Richard May 11 – June 29 As students become more familiar with the techniques of balancing and relaxation, they will learn more of the movements to complete the form.

Wednesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Advanced Tai Chi with Richard May 11 – June 29 Once the form is learned, students will go deeper into the fine points, refining the movements and their connections that lead to improved health and mental focus.

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

Integrated Yoga with Robin May 11 – June 29 A yoga class integrating pranayama (breath work), asana (postures) and deeply relaxing meditation, such as yoga nidra, which can be the equivalent of four hours of sleep. Wednesday, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m.

Chair Yoga for Osteoporosis with Debi May 11 – June 29 Designed for those with osteopenia or osteoporosis who can’t get up and down from the floor. The focus will be on strengthening your muscles, bones, posture, balance and fall prevention.

Breath work for improved immune function and energy production. All levels welcome and modifications will be offered.

Wednesday, 11 a.m. to noon Line Dancing with Sharon May 11 – June 29 Jump on line and join the fun! In this beginner’s line dance class, you will learn country and western classics such as Electric Slide, Tush Push and Cowboy Hustle, plus many more. Not only is line dancing great exercise, but it is also great for your brain too. No partner needed.

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

Mat/Floor Pilates with Karen May 11 – June 29 An all-levels class that focuses on strengthening your core muscles to help improve your balance and provide support for your spine. Participants should have a moderate fitness and flexibility level. Mat Pilates or yoga experience recommended.

Wednesday, 11 to 11:50 a.m.

Be Kind to Your Joints with Pam May 11 – June 29 A slow and gentle class using long stretches to promote joint movement. Wear comfortable clothes to move in. Need a towel and mat. Wednesday, 10 to 11 a.m.

Chair Yoga for Strength and Balance with Sharmone May 12 – June 30 This class uses a chair in seated and standing poses. Perfect for those with injuries or who need to get stronger overall. The focus is on strengthening muscles for balance, posture and core. Thursday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Qi Gong: Revitalize Your Life Force & Increase Your Innate Healing Powers with Gayla May 12 – June 30 A powerful but gentle practice of movement and meditation, this rejuvenates the body by reducing stress and strengthening the immune function.

As your body connects to the qi energy life force it helps the body to detoxify and release stored negative emotions. Qi gong

will leave you feeling stronger physically, emotionally and spiritually. You can participate even if you are sitting down.

Thursday, 9 to 10:15 a.m.

Tai Chi for Arthritis with Valyn May 12 – June 30 Tai chi is a Chinese exercise system that uses slow, smooth body movements to achieve a state of relaxation for both body and mind while also strengthening cardiovascular and immune systems.

Thursday, noon to 12:45 p.m.

Restorative/Yoga Nidra with Valyn May 13 – July 1 This class includes relaxing, supported, held postures and yoga nidra or yogic sleep, a guided meditation with conscious relaxation practice intended to maximize the benefit of the practice. Recommended for those experiencing stress, wanting to gently unwind, relax and renew. Friday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Pilates Stretch and Firm with Valyn May 13 – July 1 Learn to move with grace, fluidity and control while enhancing postural alignment and core strength. Friday, 10 to 11 a.m.

Don’t see what you’re looking for?

Check TorranceMemorial.org/classes for more information or call 310-517-4666.

Issue #23 Spring 2022

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Groupon groupon.com Awesome beauty services, restaurants and a multitude of fun, affordable experiences and services near you.

Investopedia investopedia.com Investopedia strives to empower every person to feel in control of their financial future. They help simplify financial decisions and information to give readers the confidence to manage every aspect of their financial life— from first-timers to experienced investors looking to improve their knowledge and skills.

8 Great Websites Dedicated to Seniors With a multitude of websites vying for your attention, Advantage has pared down the list to eight we recommend—featuring a little bit of everything. Most are geared toward senior living. Check them out!

RetiredBrains RetiredBrains retiredbrains.com One of the most comprehensive independent resource websites for baby boomers, those planning their retirements and active retirees. RetiredBrains helps seniors live happy, healthy and prosperous lives and offers advice on how to pursue jobs after retirement and other valuable insights.

SmarterTravel smartertravel.com Feed your passion for travel before, during and after your trip. SmarterTravel delivers expert travel tips, inspiring destination stories and timely travel news by writers, editors and developers who love seeing the world and sharing what they find.

LoveToKnow Seniors seniors.lovetoknow.com Clear, comprehensive and credible, LoveToKnow includes interviews with the best in beauty, health, wellness, all things home, hobbies, holiday cooking, family and relationships.

TED ted.com TED provides educational, motivational and encouraging talks in the form of short videos by experts from many areas of interest. No topic is out-of-bounds, and there is no political, religious or commercial agenda.

The sole aim is to teach and inspire viewers of all ages.

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Suddenly Senior suddenlysenior.com Suddenly Senior helps people ages 50+ come to terms with “becoming a senior before their time” with articles on a variety of topics like beauty, health and lifestyle, as well as jokes and funny stories about life in your golden years. You can also test your knowledge with trivia or quizzes.

thirdAGE thirdage.com thirdAGE is a premier health and wellness site targeted to women of all ages and their families. Healthy living matters more than ever, and thirdAGE provides thoughtfully curated health and lifestyle content and up-to-the-moment information—including videos, slideshows, health condition centers, cutting-edge research and more. •

Online Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous Groups meet on Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.

Contact Jean Carfagno at 310784-4879 for more information.

Head and Neck Cancer Support Group A group for those diagnosed with head and neck cancer and seeking support for the unique needs of their cancer. Group meets every fourth Tuesday, 6 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Call 310517-7077 for more information.

Caregiving Support Group Information and nurturing support for people providing care for another. All types of caregivers welcome. Please join and hear valuable information from people going through similar experiences. Every Tuesday afternoon, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom. Call 310-517-4666 for more information.

Meditation Weekly group for practicing meditation—a skill to quiet the mind and help relieve stress.

Tuesdays and Thursdays every week, 4 to 5 p.m. via Zoom.

Call 310-517-4701 for more information.

Men’s Cancer Support Group This support group for men meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. via Zoom. Contact Rev. Jan Arthur for more information at Jan.Lee@tmmc.com.

Multiple Myeloma Support Group The Los Angeles Multiple Myeloma Support Group offers patients and their supporters a place to go for shelter and comfort in dealing with myeloma. Meets every third Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 310-516-6828 for more information.

Bariatrics Support Groups Bariatrics Surgery – every first Monday, 7 to 8 p.m.; every fourth Tuesday, 7 to 8 p.m. (no meeting in March); and every fourth Monday, 11 a.m. to noon.

Via Zoom. Call 310-325-9110, ext. 30022 for link.

Between Starving and Stuffed Mindful eating for a healthy weight. Meets every second and third Thursday, 6 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Call 310-325-9110, ext.

30022.

Virtual Miracle of Living Join us via Zoom for Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s popular health lecture series. For details, visit torrancememorial.org/mol.

May 18 at 6:30 p.m.

Neuroscience: The Comprehensive Stroke Center July 20 at 6:30 p.m.

Vertigo/Dizziness Past lectures include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, integrative medicine, COVID-19, and a variety of mental health topics such as depression, anxiety and living a health life. Videos are available on demand at TorranceMemorial.org/mol.

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 initially be held online via Zoom in 2022 with hopes of moving to in-person later in the year.

May 13 Estate Planning Basics in 2022 Learn why you need an estate plan, how it works and what happens when you don’t have one.

July 8 Emotions of Estate Planning and Investing Discover the often subtle nature of how emotions impact your estate planning and investing and how to avoid derailment and conflicts.

Seminars take place on Fridays, noon to 1:30 p.m.

RSVP to Margaret Doran at 310-517-4728 or foundation@tmmc.com. You may also visit Torrance Memorial.org/financialhealthseminars for online registration. Zoom meeting information will be posted online and also emailed to all registrants the week of the webinar.

Issue #23 Spring 2022

15

3330 Lomita Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90505-5073

NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID TORRANCE, CA PERMIT NO 381

WHEN YOU NEED EXPERT CARE, TORRANCE MEMORIAL IS HERE FOR YOU. Torrance Memorial Medical Center 310-325-9110 TorranceMemorial.org

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.

ADVANTAGE Program Information 310-517-4666 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

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.

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.

Emergency Department Approved for Pediatric Patients – Torrance Memorial is a designated Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics by L.A. County Department of Health Services.

Torrance Memorial Physician Network 310-891-6717 TMPhysicianNetwork.org Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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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.

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.

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Vincent Rios Creative, Inc. vrioscreative.com ©2022 Torrance Memorial Medical Center. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice. It has not been designed to replace a physician's medical assessment and medical judgment. Always consult first with your physician regarding anything related to your personal health.