Message from Rob Whitten, President of JGS Lifecare

April 2, 2024

Dear Residents and Families of JGS Lifecare,

I am delighted to share with you some exciting updates and achievements as we welcome the spring season.

JNH recently completed a very successful annual survey with the Department of Public Health. The survey showcased the dedication and commitment of our wonderful staff at JGS Lifecare. This achievement is a testament to the high standards of care and service that we provide for our residents and families.

As we look forward to National Nursing Home Week in May, we are excited to celebrate this special week with a variety of events planned for both residents and staff across our campus. This celebration is an opportunity for us to come together, recognize the importance of our community, and honor the dedication of our staff in providing exceptional care to our residents.

I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize Elinor Ribeiro, the recent recipient of the Annual Molly Neigher President’s Award. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who exemplify the JGS Lifecare CARE Values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Ellie’s commitment to these values and her outstanding contributions to our community make her a deserving recipient of this honor.

I am so proud of our accomplishments and grateful for the continued support of our residents and families. Thank you for being a part of the JGS Lifecare family. Looking forward to celebrating together during National Nursing Home Week.

Warm regards,

Rob

Peace of Mind: A Continuum of Care at JGS Lifecare

April 1, 2024

Seniors inevitably face a major decision about where to live as they grow older. While staying in one’s home may seem like the best choice, many individuals need support services, socialization, access to medical care and worry-free maintenance. Ideally, a community that allows seniors to stay in the same community throughout their aging journey is an optimal option.

At JGS Lifecare residents can choose from a variety of living options all within one campus. Upon moving into an assisted living apartment, you immediately have access to a “continuum of care” that includes short-term rehab, skilled nursing care, memory care living in both assisted living and skilled nursing environments, adult day health, independent living and visiting nurse services (VNA), palliative care and hospice care. For some residents, assisted living will be their “forever” home, while others will need more support services.

“On each of our campuses, we offer a continuum of care that provides a range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual,” explained Amy Sanders, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for JGS Lifecare and Legacy Lifecare. “We strive to make sure that our residents have access to the things that are important to them throughout their aging journey.”

A key advantage of living on the JGS Lifecare campus is ease of entrance. Many retirement communities require a ‘buy-in” or large entrance fee before an individual or couple can move into the residences. At CJL, there is no such fee. After moving into an assisted living apartment, which requires no buy-in or community fees, residents have access to the continuum of care available throughout the campus.

Aging in place in an assisted living community means that as the resident’s care needs increase as they get older, they can remain in their residence and, if needed, utilize the services available throughout the organization. In essence, a continuum of care campus is convenient, fosters socialization and allows residents to age in place for as long as possible.

Knowing that you or a family member resides in a comfortable, active, and wellness-oriented environment is reassuring. Adult children are able to relax because they understand that if a need suddenly arises in the middle of the night, someone is there who can help. That is a huge relief for families.

Safety, health, quality of life and engagement are priorities at JGS Lifecare. “Families enjoy peace of mind knowing a loved one is safe and well-cared for,” stated Sanders. “From the moment new residents walk through the door, they quickly become a valued member of the JGS family.” Added Amy, ”They feel very much at home.”

Longmeadow High School Students Design Award-Winning Ads for Ruth’s House

April 3, 2024

Longmeadow High School students recently demonstrated their creativity by designing newspaper ads for JGS Lifecare. Given only the website address to work from, the students conducted thorough research on the benefits of the campus and its services. The junior class members then developed vibrant and captivating designs that effectively highlighted the appeal of our eldercare options.

This initiative, known as “Design an Ad,” actively involves schools, businesses, and organizations in the Longmeadow area. Scott Greene, Advertising Sales Manager at Reminder Publishing, commented, “The program has been a great success. It’s a terrific way to inspire budding artists and, at the same time, have them learn about organizations and businesses in our local community.” Sponsored by the Springfield Thunderbirds, student winners not only had their designs published in the publication but also received four tickets to a 2024 Thunderbirds game.

Following the submission review, The Reminder team selected their winners, and JGS Lifecare added a unique twist by having all of their assisted living residents vote for their favorite ad as well. This task proved challenging due to the high quality of all the entries. “Our residents loved reviewing all the artwork,” said Mary-Anne Schelb, HHP, Regional Director of Business Development at JGS Lifecare. “This collaboration between Longmeadow High students and Ruth’s House is meaningful for both residents and students alike.” Mary-Anne also invited the students to visit Ruth’s House and showcase their designs to our residents and explain what inspired them to create their particular designs. “We all met in the den at Ruth’s House and had light refreshments with deep conversations about the benefits of art therapy. We even had a few residents showcase some of their own work.”

We invite you to view the top designs selected by our assisted living residents. These ads not only showcase the students’ talent but also embody the essence of JGS Lifecare, particularly Ruth’s House Assisted Living, as a welcoming and supportive community for seniors. Rest assured, our communications team will keep these designs in mind as we create future advertisements!

Life Enrichment Activities on the JGS Lifecare Campus: A Heartwarming Journey

March 29, 2024

As the seasons transitioned from frosty January to blossoming March, JGS Lifecare embarked on a vibrant journey of life enrichment. Our residents reveled in a tapestry of experiences, fostering connections, celebrating milestones, and embracing the beauty of community.

Monthly Gatherings with Our Area Veterans

Our commitment to honoring our veterans remained unwavering. Each month, we gathered with our esteemed area veterans, sharing stories that spanned generations. Their wisdom and courage resonate, reminding us of the sacrifices made for our freedom.

Puppies, Love, and Therapy

January brought an irresistible flurry of fur and boundless affection. Golden Doodles, Labradoodles, and Bernadoodles—visiting therapy puppies—pawed their way into our hearts. Their soft eyes and wagging tails melted away worries, leaving behind a trail of joy and unconditional love.

Annual Senior Prom: A Night of Elegance

February sparkled with sequins and laughter as we hosted our Annual Senior Prom. Longmeadow High School students gathered with our residents in our Gloth Family Auditorium, fostering new friendships sharing their youthful energy and enthusiasm. The dance floor witnessed timeless moments—a fusion of youth and wisdom, swaying to the melodies of Irving Lewis, a favorite entertainer at the Home. Residents danced from their wheelchairs, and others gave a good “twist and shout!” Carmino and Judy Daniele were crowned King and Queen of the Prom and enjoyed dancing the night away!

Celebrating Sharon and David: 52 Years of Love

In February, as we gathered to celebrate resident birthdays, we also recognized the 52nd Anniversary of Sharon Aminia and her husband, David. Fifty-two years of steadfast companionship, support, and love. Sharon, a cherished resident, and David, the Reverend at Temple Beth El in Springfield, exemplified enduring love.

Ellie the Alpaca: A Furry Visitor

March arrived with a delightful surprise—Ellie the Alpaca. Her fluffy coat and gentle eyes captivated our residents. Ellie’s visits were more than entertainment; they were therapy for the soul. Hugs exchanged, smiles shared—she reminded us that sometimes, healing comes from the most unexpected sources.

Tu B’Shevat: Nurturing Our Earth

Amidst winter’s chill, we celebrated Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish environmental holiday. Our residents at Ruth’s House planted trees, their hands cradling saplings with care. At the Leavitt Family Jewish Home, dates and nuts adorned our tables, symbolizing growth and sustenance. As we nurtured the earth, we felt the promise of spring—a season of renewal.

Purim Masks: Unmasking Triumph

In March, we prepared festive Purim masks, in anticipation of the triumphant Jewish holiday of Purim. The masks symbolized courage, resilience, and the victory of light over darkness, which is the essence of the Purim holiday. In effect, the story of Purim centers around Queen Esther, who courageously revealed her Jewish identity to save her people from destruction. It is a tale of bravery, unity, and the power of standing up for what is right. It was wonderful to see our residents embody the spirit of Esther, unmasking their inner strength and celebrating life’s victories.

Looking Forward

As we bid farewell to the first quarter of 2024, we carry these memories—the laughter, the love, and the shared moments—deep within our hearts. JGS Lifecare continues to be a haven where life blooms, and every day is a celebration of resilience and joy.

JGS Lifecare Presents Annual Molly Neigher President’s Award

March 27, 2024

JGS Lifecare continued the tradition of honoring employees for their hard work and dedication by presenting the Molly Neigher President’s Award to one clinical and one non-clinical employee. These staff members demonstrate excellence in living and modeling the JGS Lifecare Core “CARE” Values, which stands for Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.

Each recipient receives public recognition of their achievement as well as a $500 monetary award. In addition, the Neigher Family recognizes each recipient with a donation to The Neigher Family Chapel Fund in their honor, which helps support and enrich religious and spiritual programming at JGS Lifecare.

The clinical recipient of this award was Elinor (Ellie) Riberio, a registered nurse manager at the Leavitt Family Jewish Home, who was honored in mid-March before a gathering of co-workers. The non-clinical recipient of this award was Charlie Ventura, a cook at Ruth’s House Assisted Living Residence, who received his honor this past December, amongst his co-workers and residents at Ruth’s House.

In announcing Ellie Riberio as an award recipient, Carol Mortensen, Executive Director at the Leavitt Home reflected, “Ellie is a dedicated compassionate and dependable person. Her compassion shines through every day. She always greets everyone with a smile and a ‘Good morning, how are you!’ and encourages residents, families and staff to laugh and enjoy life. Ellie consistently maintains the highest quality of care for her residents and goes above and beyond, ensuring the needs of her residents and their families are met. I can’t think of a more deserving person to recognize than Ellie!”

Christina Tuohey, Executive Director at Ruth’s House Assisted Living, bestowed the non-clinical award to Charlie Ventura, reflecting, “Charlie’s compassion shines through in every meal he prepares. Beyond creating delicious and nutritious dishes, he goes above and beyond to ensure that each resident’s dietary preferences, restrictions, and cultural needs are accommodated, creating a dining experience that brings comfort and joy to all. He consistently maintains the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, ensuring that the meals served at Ruth’ House meet or exceed regulatory requirements. Charlie’s respectful and inclusive approach contributes significantly to the overall well-being of our residents!”

The Molly Neigher President’s Award was established in 2014 by Molly’s son, Bill Neigher, and her husband, Abe Neigher, of blessed memory, a former volunteer and resident of The Leavitt Family Jewish Home. Bill and Abe sought to both honor Molly and the JGS Lifecare staff, who both demonstrate the extraordinary commitment to creating a community of caring and loving-kindness for our seniors.

Bill Neigher explained the significance of the award. “Molly loved this organization with all her heart, and with all her soul. She was one of the women who worked tirelessly to raise the funds to relocate the Home from Copley Terrace in Springfield to our JGS Longmeadow campus. She saw its foundation and spirit rise, and then rededicated in 1972, continuing the vision, promise and commitment that began in 1912.” Added Bill, “May Molly’s memory be a blessing, and may all who receive this Award go from strength to strength.”

Pictured in the main image: Molly Neigher

Leonard Florence Center for Living in Chelsea Featured on Boston TV!

February 21, 2024

Our sister residence, the Leonard Florence Center for Living, was recently featured in a segment on the Channel 5/WCVB-TV 6pm news broadcast. On-air reporter Maria Stephanos visited the Chelsea nursing home to see, first hand, how the Center is changing lives.

Take a look at her interview with Chelsea Jewish Lifecare CEO Barry Berman and residents Steve Saling and Michael Scott. It’s easy to see why Maria called the LFCL a true center for living. As she points out, the word “living” means everything to the residents who call it home.”

Click here to read the story on WCVB.com.