Advantage

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS

Kalpana Hool , MD

1. HEART DISEASE

Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in Americans over 65. The risk of heart attack, stroke, heart valve problems, arrhythmia and heart failure rises as we age. Exercise, nutrition and lifestyle choices play a big role as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and diabetes damage the heart over time. Warning signs include fatigue, confusion, palpitations, fainting and swelling in the feet or legs.

Sometimes it’s also a “silent” condition until a major cardiac event happens. Cardiac tests like EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests and CT scans that check for blockages and heart damage are critical.

“It’s not all bad news,” says Kalpana Hool, MD, a Torrance Memorial Physician Network primary care and internal medicine specialist. “Many people can lower their risk for heart disease and improve heart conditions with consistent, healthy lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise. Of course, it’s critical patients work with their physician regarding any needed medication and get regular blood pressure and cholesterol level testing.”

Prevention:

• Choose healthy foods and drinks. Avoid overly processed, salty, sugary foods and drinks. Eat more whole fruits and vegetables and limit your intake of fried fast foods.

• Keep a healthy weight.

• Exercise regularly.

• Don’t smoke.

• Check cholesterol and blood pressure.

• Manage diabetes.

2. CANCER

Cancer is the #2 cause of death for seniors. Women must screen for cervical, endometrial and breast cancers, while men are at risk for prostate, lung and colon cancers. Symptoms depend on the cancer and location but may include lumps, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, changes in bowel habits or unex-

plained weight loss. Some cancers have no signs until later stages, so screening is critical for early detection and treatment. Radiation, chemotherapy, surgery and newer therapies help prolong life, and lifestyle changes can lower risk.

Prevention:

• Avoid tobacco, including second-hand smoke.

• Protect your skin from UV rays with hats and sunscreen.

• Get regular screenings: mammograms, colonoscopies, PSA levels and skin checks.

• Limit alcohol.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Consult a dietitian to assess nutritional choices.

• Test for Hepatitis C.

3. ARTHRITIS

Arthritis causes progressive joint damage, pain and mobility restriction in half of all seniors. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are most prevalent. Inflammation and pressure on cartilage make joints stiff, swollen and painful. This can occur in the knees, hips, fingers, lower back and neck. Early treatment can slow progression and ease symptoms.

“By making a few changes to your diet, inflammation can be reduced and mobility improved,” says Daneivys (Dani) Rodriguez-Brindicci, MS, RDN, director of clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy at Torrance Memorial. “Typically, when people lower sugar levels and limit processed and fried foods, they can experience relief to stiff and swollen joints. Find a dietitian who can tailor a program for your needs and lifestyle.”

Prevention:

• Incorporate a low-inflammation diet.

• Gentle movement like beginner yoga, swimming and tai chi may help.

• Acupuncture and massage may ease pain.

• Speak with your physician about medication options and clinical trials.

Dementia, typically seen in the oldest population, ranges from mild forgetfulness to stronger confusion.

4. DIABETES

Diabetes affects 33% of Americans over 65. Seniors are more susceptible to developing diabetes-related complications like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), kidney failure and heart disease. Many are diagnosed with “pre-type 2 diabetes”—a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

“If you have been diagnosed with pretype 2 diabetes, do not shrug it off. Address it immediately so it doesn’t develop into diabetes and damage the kidneys, eyes, heart and blood vessels,” warns Rodriguez-Brindicci. Signs of prediabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, excess hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, nerve pain and numbness in the hands and feet.

Once diagnosed with diabetes, careful blood sugar monitoring, medications, nutrition planning and activity management must occur. Screening, education, vaccinations, foot care and eye exams prevent dangerous amputation, blindness and stroke.

Prevention:

• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise. Aim for 150 minutes of mild to moderate exercise weekly.

• Avoid red and processed meat and sugary foods and drinks. Aim for fresh vegetables, lean meats, fish, nuts, yogurt and whole grains. Meet with a dietitian to learn more.

• Do not smoke.

• Limit alcohol.

• Monitor blood pressure.

5: ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA

One in 10 Americans over 65 has dementia, and nearly 6.9 million seniors have Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s causes progressive memory loss, confusion and limited cognitive functioning and problem-solving ability. Dementia, typically seen in the oldest population, ranges from mild forgetfulness to stronger confusion. Risk factors include family history and genetics, yet studies show positive lifestyle changes can slow or even prevent onset.

Prevention:

• Exercise daily (gentle movement counts!).

• Engage in cognitive training (puzzles, word games, reading).

• Incorporate a healthy diet.

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

• Review new medications and upcoming clinical trials with your physician.

• Lower stress and anxiety. Consider gentle yoga, breathing exercises, tai chi, massage, meditation, walks in nature and time with uplifting friends.

• Increase your sleep by lowering the lights at home after 7 p.m. and not eating too late. •

Kalpana Hool, MD, practices at Torrance Memorial Physician Network Palos Verdes, 602 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 300, Rolling Hills Estates. She can be reached at 310517-4692. To inquire about the wide range of nutritional services and programs at Torrance Memorial, please call 310-891-6707 or visit TorranceMemorial.org/nutrition.

Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

Protect your brain and heart with knowledge, preventive care and healthy habits.

WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

Astroke can cause long-term brain damage, disability and even death. It’s a serious and dangerous medical condition affecting hundreds of thousands of Americans every year.

However, many strokes can be prevented. Health issues causing strokes can be controlled or treated, and there are straightforward lifestyle changes to reduce risk. Lorena Layrisse Landaeta, MD, a Torrance Memorial Physician Network primary care and geriatric specialist, tells seniors to reduce their risks by understanding and caring for their overall health.

Understand Your Risks

Some risk factors for strokes are modifiable and some are not, Dr. Landaeta says. Individuals need to be aware of the risk factors they can’t change, including age, race, ethnicity, gender and genetics.

For instance, strokes are the third highest cause of death for women. Black, Latino and Native American communities also have a greater risk of developing stroke.

Once underlying risk is understood, controlling treatable risk factors is important for the prevention of strokes. “Major modifiable risk factors include hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking, atrial fibrillation, alcohol and substance use, obesity and physical inactivity,” she says.

Get Preventive Care

Regular medical checkups are important for all ages, and they are crucial for seniors with a higher risk of stroke. Weight management, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar monitoring, and medicine adjustments help monitor and control medical conditions that lead to stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Lorena Layrisse Landaeta, MD

“Your doctor should check your blood pressure at every visit, and ideally your cholesterol should be measured once a year,” Dr. Landaeta says. “In addition, let your primary care doctor know if your blood pressure is not controlled with your medication, and be compliant with cholesterol and blood pressure medications.”

It is essential to control these risk factors to prevent strokes. A few important numbers to remember:

Blood Pressure

• Normal blood pressure is 120/80

• Elevated blood pressure is greater than 129/80

• Stage 1 hypertension is greater than 130/89

• Stage 2 hypertension is equal to or greater than 140/90

Cholesterol

• Elevated bad cholesterol (LDL) in patients with no history of cardiovascular disease is equal to 190 mg/dL

• Elevated bad cholesterol for patients with history of stroke or myocardial infarction (MI) is less than 55 mg/dL

Blood Sugar

• Hemoglobin a1c of 5.7–6.5 indicates prediabetes

• Hemoglobin a1c of > 6.5 indicates diabetes.

Maintain Your Weight with a Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise

Most people know diet and exercise are basic aspects of good health. Still, it can be very challenging to change these habits. Dr. Landaeta recommends trying a weight loss program, seeing a nutritionist or working with a personal trainer. A “healthy lifestyle” is one where nutritious foods and physical activity become normal patterns, and outside support might be needed to find the best approach.

“Exercise, exercise, exercise and follow a healthy diet involving a high intake of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and fish. Limit animal protein and substitute it with fish or lean poultry,” she says. “Try to do moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for 30 minutes, five days a week.”

Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. For diabetics, talk to your doctor about specific medications to promote weight loss.

Be Aware of the Warning Signs

“In the health care world, we like to say ‘time is brain.’ If you wait too long to seek medical attention, it may be too late for treatment,” Dr. Landaeta says.

B.E.F.A.S.T is the American Stroke Association’s plan for spotting the warning signs of stroke. Immediate treatment is key to reducing damage and increasing survival.

B: Loss of Balance – Unsteady balance, dizziness.

E: Eyesight Changes – Blurred or double vision.

F: Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb?

A: Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S: Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? T: Time to call 911 – Every minute counts. Call 911 immediately and note time when any symptoms first appeared.

South Bay residents have another important safeguard in place for stroke risks. Torrance Memorial is a certified Comprehensive Stroke Center, prepared to the highest level for stroke-related medical problems and treatment of serious stroke events.

The hospital has also received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get with the Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award for its dedication to providing stroke patients with the best treatment based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines. •

Lorena Layrisse Landaeta, MD, practices at Torrance Memorial Physician Network Palos Verdes, 602 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 300, Rolling Hills Estates. She can be reached at 310-517-4692.

Claire Caffo, Age 91, Hermosa Beach

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS

Imet Claire Caffo, aka “Nana,” at a Hermosa Beach boot camp during the pandemic. What struck me about this tall, spry, 90-year-old woman with great posture was her positive mindset, radiant smile, sharp mind and flowing laughter. I never heard her complain. When asked how she was doing, she’d typically reply, “Oh, pretty good!” before asking about someone’s child, work or recent vacation.

One day, as we jog-shuffled backward up a neighborhood street, I asked if I could spot her. “Oh no,” she laughed. “It’s good for my balance and mind!” As I watched her, it was clear she had no arthritis or joint issues, and amazing mobility.

Today at 91, the Swiss native is still in fabulous shape. Claire attends her sonin-law’s boot camp two mornings a week, walks, goes to the gym, gardens religiously—and skis. When we spoke, Nana was packing for a ski trip. When I said how remarkable that was, she shrugged and replied in her soft accent, “Oh, yah, well, I only ski three hours a day now.”

We walked onto her deck to get some sun, and I noticed pots of all sizes overflowing with herbs, lettuce, Swiss chard, kale, tomatoes, and orange and lemon trees. She pointed and smiled like that was her secret to health.

Q: What do you think is the key to your remarkable, youthful energy, well-being and vitality?

A: I eat lots of herbs and mostly fresh veggies from my garden-never junk food. I have always believed in fermented foods and make my own kefir and sauerkraut.

I learned to be healthy from my grandmother. My parents were away and traveled because of the war (WWII) so I lived in Northeast Switzerland near St. Gallen. My grandmother taught me about herbs. She sent me up into the hills to pick 20 different herbs and shoots so we could make tea! We gardened, canned foods, dried herbs, fermented foods, cooked together. I learned from her.

Q: Have you always exercised?

A: In Switzerland I had to walk everywhere, or bike daily. As a teenager, I hiked in the mountains too.

Q: It sounds lovely. Have you always been healthy?

A: Mostly. But when I was 65, I was diagnosed with lupus. I was in a relationship with emotional abuse. That stress caused the lupus. I cured myself after I got rid of him [she laughs]! Seriously, stress is awful for the body. Now I’m in good shape, but I do have osteoporosis, so when I ski, I go slow.

Q: Walk me through a day of your life now—from what you eat to what you do.

A: Breakfast: I make a smoothie with kefir and garden herbs—dandelion, basil, garlic, chives, oregano, rosemary. I add berries, a banana, cranberries, a little orange juice, beet juice, chia and flax seeds, turmeric, and ginger. If I’m going to boot camp, I’ll have a soft-boiled egg too.

Lunch: I eat a salad with garden lettuces. On bread I spread coconut butter - that’s good for my brain - and mix it with dried garden herbs.

Dinner: Once a week I eat liver with a potato and applesauce. Very simple. Sometimes I cook chicken or homemade soup. Yesterday I made a quiche with herbs, chives and mushrooms. I eat European portions, so not too much.

Activity: I stretch first thing in the morning—balance exercises. If I don’t go to boot camp, I walk, garden, go to the gym and lift weights, relax in a sauna. It’s important to stay active!

Q: What brought you to America?

Photographed by Laura Roe Stevens

A: The Olympics in California [in 1960] had a big impact on me. I wanted to meet Americans. After my grandmother died, I was 26 and decided to move. We had family friends in Sacramento, so off I went. I met my husband at a church dance, and he drove a group of us on a ski trip. He was extremely kind, loving, honest and trustworthy. We got married and raised our children: Nicole, Marc, Tom and Simone, who I now live with in Hermosa Beach. •

Left to right: Michael Binder, Simone Binder, Sandra Weiss Pean, Claire Caffo, Liz Hobbs (front) Dana Mahony (back), Nadege Conger.

The Demon of Unrest

BY ERIK LARSON

This is an epic work of historical narrative fiction. This story explores the complex political landscape of the period immediately preceding the Civil War, paralleling it with today’s political climate. The book presents the voices of key figures, providing insight into the tumultuous era and the profound struggles and convictions that defined a nation on the brink of war.

Same As It Ever Was

BY CLAIRE LOMBARDO

Protagonist Julia Ames is on the brink of so many things: sending her youngest off to college, marrying off her firstborn, relaxing into midlife, enjoying the peace of an empty nest and the comfort of a decades-long marriage. Except she’s not. Things are going to get messy. We cringe with her missteps, cheer for her near-triumphs and want her to see what is right in front of her.

7 Books for Summer Reading

Advantage magazine once again spoke with Linda McLoughlin Figel of {pages} a bookstore about her top summer reading book recommendations. Located in Manhattan Beach, {pages} is an independent bookstore serving the South Bay. Linda and her book-savvy staff are masterful in matching readers with just the right books. Their well-curated inventory makes finding your next read a delightful adventure. Here are some summer reading suggestions from Linda.

The Women BY KRISTIN HANNAH

Hannah’s best book yet, this is the story of 20-year-old Frances McGrath and the women she served with in Vietnam. It’s the story of relations forged in war and the challenges of returning home to a country divided and in denial that women ever served. It delivers history lessons told through rich, complex, relatable characters about whom we care deeply and whose plights break our hearts and then put them back together, at least partially. Keep your tissues handy!

Perfect Eloquence: An Appreciation of Vin Scully BY TOM HOFFARTH

Collected and edited with deep admiration and affection, this tribute to the Baseball Hall of Fame broadcaster is in the words of writers, broadcasters and others—including Chris Erskine, who knew him and celebrated him not just for his 67 years of calling games for the Dodgers but for his values, actions and contributions away from the game.

The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook BY HAMPTON SIDES

From this New York Times bestselling author, an epic account of the most momentous voyage of the Age of Exploration, which culminated in Captain James Cook’s death in Hawaii and left a complex and controversial legacy still debated to this day. This account of Cook’s last journey both wrestles with Cook’s legacy and provides a thrilling narrative of the titanic efforts and continual danger that characterized exploration in the 1700s.

The God of the Woods

BY LIZ MOORE

In this literary, characterand plot-driven, twisty mystery, Barbara disappears from her summer camp in the Adirondacks 16 years after her brother’s disappearance—and that’s just the beginning. This book has it all: family drama, page-turning suspense and the perfect setting. Sit back and carve out some time and enjoy. You won’t be able to put this one down.

All the Colors of the Dark

BY CHRIS WHITAKER

This is a gem of a page-turner full of characters with whom you will be deeply vested. The Pirate and the Beekeeper are childhood friends whose friendship unwittingly leads them into the darkest depths of life-altering mystery, murder and hostage situations and missing persons! Run, don’t walk, to this treasure.

The Safe Senior Driver

Caring for your eyesight will help you keep your driver’s license and maintain your independence.

WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

In places like the South Bay, driving is the key to mobility and independence. Research has shown that visual field loss of any sort in both eyes increases the risk of a car accident by 84%, and vision loss can make it difficult for seniors to maintain their driving privileges. The good news is the two most common vision issues in seniors—cataract and dry eye—are highly treatable. Damien Goldberg, MD, a Torrance Memorial ophthalmologist and eye surgeon, tells individuals concerned about their ability to drive safely to see their doctor as soon as possible.

What conditions commonly affect vision and can make driving difficult for seniors?

Many medical conditions affect vision and make it difficult to drive, including glaucoma, diabetes, cerebral palsy, stroke and multiple sclerosis. One of the most common reasons seniors have issues with night driving is glare from cataracts. If cataracts are the issue, patients should seek medical care and attempt to improve their vision with glasses or contacts. If glasses or contacts no longer improve their vision, they may want to consider cataract surgery. Another common source of glare at night is dry eye. When the cornea gets dry, it causes light to scatter—making it hard to see through.

Damien Goldberg, MD

Dry eye can easily be alleviated with over-the-counter lubrication drops like Refresh, Systane or Retaine. Some patients may need prescription medication for their dry eye, and several products are now on the market offering relief, such as Restasis, Xiidra, Cequa, Miebo and Tryvaya. Patients who have undergone previous eye surgeries like LASIK, blepharoplasty or even routine cataract surgery can sometimes be more likely to develop dry eye.

More Experts in Matters of the Heart

One of the most common reasons seniors have issues with night driving is glare from cataracts.

What are the general vision requirements for having a driver’s license?

Every state has different requirements, but in California your vision has to be 20/100 in daylight and 20/40 at night (with or without glasses or contacts), and you need 150 degrees of visibility in one eye to drive legally.

How can seniors protect and maintain their driving privileges?

No one ever thinks they have dry eye or cataracts until they experience difficulty driving at night, trouble reading street signs or discomfort from bright headlights. First, they need glasses with an up-to-date prescription. If they have dry eye they can use drops, or if necessary prescription medication. If they have a compromised field of vision, they can undergo testing and occupational therapy to maximize their night vision, or they may need to cease driving at night. Finally, they need to be evaluated for cataracts and have them treated.

If your vision is affected but you still qualify for a license, how can you make driving safer for yourself and others?

I often see patients who are having difficulty driving. They mention hitting curbs or accidentally hitting other cars while parking. Whether we want to admit it or not, as we age our attention and reflexes are not what they were when we were 18. There are alternative ways to get around. If you’re not comfortable driving at certain times of the day, you have the option to use Uber, Lyft or other ride-sharing services, or paratransit. The majority of people know when they are no longer comfortable behind the wheel. It takes time to accept limitations, but I tell my patients, “Be truthful to yourself and your family, because we all care about you.” •

Damien Goldberg, MD, practices at 23600 Telo Ave., Suite 100, Torrance. He can be reached at 310-543-2611.

THE LUNDQUIST LURIE CARDIOVASCULAR INSTITUTE AT TORRANCE MEMORIAL is a local and national leader for comprehensive cardiac care with more multi-disciplinary experts, advanced treatment options and state-of-the-art technology. Our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai provides access to more cardiac expertise, innovative capabilities and clinical research. Learn more at TorranceMemorial.org/Cardio

Want to Thrive in Your Golden Years?

Try Yoga.

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS

You’ve likely heard the adage yoga is good for mind, body and spirit. It’s true. Yoga holds many benefits for all ages—but especially for seniors. I should know. I’ve been teaching seniors beginner yoga and meditation for 12 years.

Not only does yoga lower stress, fear and anxiety, but it also improves balance, strength, flexibil-

ity, confidence and mobility. It eases joint pain and loosens stiff muscles from surgery or injuries— aiding in recovery and preventing further injury from overcompensation or bad posture. I’ve seen it assist back, neck and spinal pain and heal injuries from imbalances due to habits that cause us to look down, curve our shoulders or hunch over. Studies prove yoga aids in relaxation and sleep

Yoga is good for you! Torrance Memorial offers a wide variety of yoga classes (both in-person and on Zoom). See pages 12–14 for details.

Yoga has a great way of making you feel good —in your body, about your life and about creative, positive possibilities.

too. And yoga provides a positive, supportive community with uplifting reminders to set intentions focused on gratitude, acceptance, forgiveness and trust. That is of great benefit to our closest relationships.

For instance, I’ll never forget when the husband of a yoga student popped into the Torrance Memorial Center for Healthy Living in Malaga Cove, where I taught his wife. He was holding flowers for me. “What’s this?” I asked, smelling them.

“It’s yoga night,” he replied. “Every time Sue* comes home, she’s in such a good mood and is so sweet to me. It’s my favorite night of the week!”

I smiled thinking about the previous week’s class where we set an intention to let everyone “off the hook” that week—to accept them, not take things personally and think of them in their highest light, remembering all the good things they’d done for us.

Yoga has a great way of making you feel good—in your body, about your life and about creative, positive possibilities. Torrance Memorial has many classes to choose from -chair yoga, beginning hatha classes (meaning it’s easier on your wrists), yoga for bone strength, prenatal classes, meditation, chakra yoga and sound baths!

If you are new to yoga, you may want to try a beginner class that offers breathing exercises (called pranayama), stretching and balance postures for all levels, and a guided short meditation. Talk with your

doctor if you have a significant injury, but for the most part, yoga is great for injury healing and prevention.

There are many ways to safely modify postures, and teachers with restorative and therapeutic training can find alternative ways for students to participate without further aggravating an injury. For instance, a student who had a frozen shoulder from nerve pain couldn’t lift both arms. We found a way for her to flow with her arms outstretched while breathing deeply until she was able to lift them a bit higher. Over time, with yoga and her physical therapy, she was able to lift her arms again without pain.

As a benefit to our community, Torrance Memorial yoga classes are significantly less expensive than those at studios. So you’ve got no excuse. Explore all the options available and sign up for a class that appeals to you today! For a full list of yoga classes offered by Torrance Memorial, see pages 12 to 14. •

*Name changed for anonymity.

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)

July 8–August 26

September 9–October 28

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 Balance with Sharmone (in-person or Zoom)

July 8–July 29

September 9–October 28

July 11–August 1

September 12–October 31

Monday or Thursday, 2 to 3 p.m.

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

Qi Gong with Gayla (Zoom only)

July 11–August 29

September 12–October 31

Thursday, 9 to 10:15 a.m.

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

Beginning Tai Chi with Richard (Zoom only)

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

Tuesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

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

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

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

Tuesday, 4 to 4:50 p.m.

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

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

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

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)

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

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 welcome.

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

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

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

Poses, breath work, body awareness to stimulate bone growth, increase flexibility, strength, range of motion in joints, improve posture and balance. Floor, chairs and standing poses. Bring a mat.

Intermediate Tai Chi with Richard (Zoom only)

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

Wednesday, 2 to 3 p.m.

Learn how to complete the form.

ADVANCED TAI CHI with Richard (Zoom only)

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

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

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

Integrated Yoga with Robin (in-person or Zoom)

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

Wednesday, 7 to 8 p.m.

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

Yoga Basics with Laura (Zoom only)

July 8–August 26, September 9–October 28

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)

July 10–August 28

September 11–October 30

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

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

Line Dancing: The Next Step with Sharon

NEW Class

July 10–August 28, September 11–October 30

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

Learn cutting-edge high beginner and improver line dances as well as more complex line dance steps. Previous line dancing experience required.

Yoga for Chakra Balancing with Laura (Zoom only)

July 11–August 29, September 12–October 31

Thursday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Intro to chakra yoga uses beginner asanas (postures). The meditation and breathing exercises relax the mind, reduce stress and increase energy. In each class, students learn about one of the main chakras, believed to be the centers of life force energy (prana) in the body.

Stretching for Better Balance:

Beginning & Intermediate with Randy (Zoom only)

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

July 12–August 30

September–13–November 1

Tuesday or Friday, 10 to 10:45 a.m. Increases flexibility and mobility to help prevent injuries.

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

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

July 12–August 30

September 13–November 1

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

Strengthen your upper and lower body using flexible exercise bands.

Brain

Games & More

July 9–August 5

Tuesday, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Challenge yourself to increase your mental fitness in an interactive setting.

Registration: $60

Advantage members: $55

Miracle of Living

Join us at 6:30 p.m. in person or via Zoom for Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s popular health lecture series. Hoffman Health Conference Center, 3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance. Visit TorranceMemorial.org/mol for details.

June 19

Happy Feet

July 17

Menopause

August 21

Brain Health

Past lectures include cancer prevention; sports injury prevention and other orthopedic issues; heart disease, complications with diabetes and stroke, valve disease 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

Chair Exercise: Beginning & Intermediate with Pam

July 11–August 29

September 12–October 31

Thursday, 9 to 10 a.m.

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

Yoga for Stress Reduction with Debi

July 13–August 31

September 14–November 2

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

July 10–August 28,

September 11–October 30

July 13–August 31, September 14–November 2

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.

Align the Spine with Joy

July 8–August 26

September 9–October 28

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

July 8–August 26

September 9–October 28

July 11–August 29

September 12–October 31

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

Work out in a chair to increase flexibility and prevent injuries.

Muscle Strengthening: Beginning & Intermediate with Randy

July 8–August 26

September 9–October 28

July 11–August 29

September 12–October 31

Monday or Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Strengthen upper and lower body using a chair and flexible exercise bands.

Bones for Life with Joy

July 8–August 26

September 9–October 28

Monday, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

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

Mobility & Movement Slow Yoga Flow with Jacque

July 9–August 27

September 10–October 29

Tuesday, 10 to 11 a.m.

Movements to loosen stiff joints and muscles and ease rotation.

Chair Yoga for Back & Shoulders with Jacque

July 9–August 27, September 10–October 29

Tuesday, noon to 1 p.m.

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

Passive Release Restorative Yoga with Jacque

July 9–August 27, September 10–October 29

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

July 13–August 31, September 14–November 2

Saturday, 11:15 to 12:05 p.m.

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

Chair Exercise for Posture & Smooth Walking with Joy

July 8–August 26, September 9–October 28

Monday, 2 to 3 p.m.

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

Menopause 101

August 8

Friday, 5:30 to 7:30 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, $25. Advantage members, $20.

Advantage Support Groups – Summer 2024

Bariatric General Support Group

Join us for a virtual seminar to learn how bariatric weight loss 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.

Cancer & Nutrition

Whether you are currently going through cancer treatment, have had cancer in the past or are simply looking for general nutrition guidelines to help prevent the development of cancer, this class is for you! We focus on the role good nutrition plays in cancer prevention, treatment and survivorship. 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, email 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 support group meets via Zoom on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, 10 a.m. to noon, and the first and third Thursdays of the month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. dbsasouthbay.org. Contact Scott Wood at 310-497-8801 or woodscott516@yahoo. com, or Peggy at 310-548-3457.

Diabetes Support Group

Join us to share with others who understand what it is like to live with diabetes. Meets on fourth Fridays, 1 to 2:30 p.m., at the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Center, 2841 Lomita Blvd., Suite 335. Registration is not required. For questions, call 310-517-4711.

Ostomy Support Group

This support group provides a welcoming and safe space to connect with one another and learn how to live an active, happy and healthy life with an ostomy bag. Next meeting is Thursday, July 18, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Call 310-517-4711 with questions.

Stroke Support Group

Building a community of support for stroke survivors and their caregivers. Meets every second Tuesday, 10 to 11 a.m., at the Hoffman Health Conference Center, Room 4. For questions call 310517-4725, ext. 20640 for Maria or ext. 20822 for Tami.

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, 9 to 11 a.m., in the Torrance Memorial Hoffman Health Conference Center, 3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance. Zoom option is available.

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.

September 14 Straight Talk About Estate Planning

Learn the basic elements of an estate plan, the pitfalls of probate and how to select the best resources for your estate planning.

RSVP to Kristin Kamienski at 310517-4728 or foundation@tmmc.com. You may also visit TorranceMemorial. org/events/financial_health_ seminars.aspx for online registration and up-to-date information on topics and schedules.

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.

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.