Senior Resources from the Encino Sun


Activities and Education:

Encino Community Center
Offers classes for community members of all ages in yoga, tai chi, ceramics, piano, guitar, swing/salsa/tango dance, photography and more ECC is located at 4935 Balboa Blvd. in Encino. Call (818) 995-1690.

S+AGE Society Classes
Affiliated with CSUN, a learning-in-retirement organization. Offers study/discussion groups in a variety of subjects, including history, politics, science and literature for self-enrichment and the joy of learning. (818) 831-5064 or exlweb.csun.edu/sage/index.html.

American Jewish University Classes and Elderhostel
The University offers continuing education courses and adult Jewish events including basic computer classes. 15600 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles. Call (310) 440-1246 for more information. The Schurgin Elderhostel Program  is held at Brandeis Bardin in Simi Valley.  Dec. 30, 2008- Jan. 4. 2009 Call (310) 440-1535 or email  ikahn@ajula.edu.

Van Nuys Community Adult School Literary Classes
Literature group meets weekly to discuss two short stories - a stimulating blend of literature, philosophy, humor and community. Wednesdays, 10am-12:30pm at Valley Cities Jewish Community Center. Life story writing class teaches students creative ways to recall and record life experiences. Fridays, 10am-12:30pm at the Sherman Oaks Branch Library. Both classes offered free through LAUSD Adult Education Program. To learn more, call (818) 907-7812.

Westfield Walkers Program
Exercise program features ongoing health and fitness seminars offered on the second Thurs. of each month, 9-10am, along with a continental breakfast and physicians from co-sponsors Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center discussing various health topics. Info: (818) 783-0550, www.westfield.com/fashionsquare/news/ WestfieldWalkers.html.

World Literature Class
Enjoy and discuss classic and contemporary stories that deal with thought-provoking issues. Free. Reseda Education & Career Center (LAUSD). Mondays 10am-noon. West Valley Regional Branch Library, 19036 Vanowen Street, Reseda. (818) 345-9806.

Free Chair Yoga for Seniors
Sponsored by the L.A. Community Adult School Program, for older adults desiring gentle stretch/breath work. Taught by Karen Kadens, a licensed instructor for over 10 years. Every Tues., 10-11:30am. Valley Store Front, 12821 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood RSVP: (818) 984-0276.

Senior Bridge Club
The Club welcomes intermediate players on Thurs., 9:30am-1:30pm, at the Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Park Senior Center, 5040 Van Nuys Blvd. Call Maggie at (818)906-7545.

East Valley Multipurpose Senior Center Events
Internet instruction, social groups, seminars and lunches. Men's Rap Group Tues. 10:30am-noon. Music appreciation Mon. 1-2pm. Bridge players wanted. 5000 Colfax Ave., North Hollywood. Call Yolanda at (818) 766-5165.

SAGE Society Classes
Affiliated with CSUN, a learning in retirement organization that offers study/discussion groups in a variety of subjects, including history, politics, science and literature for self-enrichment and the joy of learning. (818) 831-5064. exlweb.csun.edu/sage/index.html.

Los Angeles Valley College Community Services & Extension Program
Paralegal, Human Resource Assistant, Commercial Photography, Certified Tax Preparer, Legal Secretary, and Medical Billing and Transcription. Offering hundreds of classes in business development, recreation, arts and crafts, dance, languages, and classes for kids all year. (818) 947-2320.

VNSO Senior Programs
The Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Senior Center offers driving classes, arts and crafts, dance, nutrition and more, and shows monthly movies the third Wed. of the month. The Center is at 5040/5056 Van Nuys Blvd in Sherman Oaks. (818) 756-9146.

Senior Fitness Class at Balboa Sports Center
Stay fit and limber with fitness classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9-10am. $47 for 24 sessions. L.A. City Parks new building behind tennis courts. 17015 Burbank Blvd., Encino. Call senior instructor Don U'Ren at (818) 342-1758.

Life Story Writing Class
Record special memories and family history as a precious gift to yourself and future generations. No writing experience necessary. Free. Two Valley locations: Tues. 1-4pm, ONEgeneration Center, 18255 Victory Blvd., Reseda; Thurs. 12:30-2:30pm, Encino-Tarzana Library, 18231 Ventura Blvd. in Tarzana. (818) 702-8693.

Senior Bridge Club
The Club welcomes intermediate players on Thursdays, 9am-2pm, at the Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Park Senior Center, 5040 Van Nuys Blvd. Call Barbara,  (818) 881-0709.

Walking for Health Classes
Learn the proper technique, the benefits of stretching, how to build muscle mass through walking, and how long and fast to walk to burn calories. Taught by professional fitness trainer and wellness coach Felicia Howard. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am-noon at the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Senior Center, 5056 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks. $2 per class. Call (818) 756-9146. 



Community Programs and Resources:

SER -- Jobs for Progress National, Inc.
The Senior Community Service Employment Program partners with local non-profits to provide job referrals, employment counseling, classroom training, work experience and part-time or full-time job placement for low-income L.A. workers aged 55 and older. 9024 Laurel Canyon Blvd. Sun Valley. Call (818) 504-0334, ext. 41

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association Public Meetings
Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks Senior Center. Events are open to the general public, and feature a guest speaker addressing topics of interest to seniors. Luncheon at noon, meeting at 1pm. $4 admission. 5040 Van Nuys Blvd. Sherman Oaks. RSVP by Monday prior to meeting; call John at (818) 367-4789.

Mobility Works / Advanced Mobility
An all-inclusive mobility dealership empowering those with special transportation needs to lead active lives. Offering the nation's largest inventory of mobility vehicles, a full line of accessories, lifts and driving equipment, adapted van rentals, 24-hour emergency service hotline and more. Financing options available. 7720 Sepulveda Blvd., Van Nuys. (818) 535-4046.

East Valley Senior Center Handyworker Program
Program helps low to moderate income seniors fix up their homes for free. It annually serves more than 315 Valley residents age 60 or older, enabling them to stay independent and in their own homes. Certain financial restrictions apply, home repairs done by an outside contractor. 5000 Colfax Ave., North Hollywood.  (818) 766-5165.

ONEgeneration Adult Daycare and Senior Enrichment Center
Non-profit organization features a daycare center offering specialized care for seniors and intergenerational activities with children, and a Senior Enrichment Center offering dozens of classes and social opportunities, plus low-cost meals. 17400 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys. Call (818) 708-6625 or visit www.onegeneration.org.



Health and Wellness:

Carmel In-Home Services
Providing weekly evaluations by a geriatric R.N., in-home assistance, companion services, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation and more. 5416 Tyrone Ave. in Sherman Oaks. Call (888) 454-9777 or visit  www.carmelcare.com.

SunLight Senior Care
An affiliate of East Valley Multipurpose Center. Socialization, physical, art and music therapy, meals and transportation. Sliding scale fee. Also provides caregiver support groups, respite care, counseling and caregiver benefits. Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm, (818) 763-8254 or email dawnatsunlight@sbcglobal.net

Silverado Senior Services
Specializing in health assessment, assisted living, hospice and in-home care management services for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia, as well as other ailments. 25100 Calabasas Rd. in Calabasas. Assisted living:  (818) 222-1000. Hospice: (888) 328-6636. In-home care: (818) 222-0955. www.silveradosenior.com.

AAA InterConnect Care Home Care Agency
Licensed caregivers provide transportation, meal preparation, medication management, bathing assistance, companionship and long-term care across San Fernando Valley. Multi-lingual caregivers available. 8600 W. 3rd St. in Los Angeles, across from Cedars Sinai Hospital. (310) 285-0200.

Shalev Family Companion
Provides highest level of care for clients at home, in the hospital, or nursing homes.  Available on an hourly or live-in basis. (818) 780-4808 www.shalevfamilyhomes.com

Shalev Family Homes
Provide comfortable, peaceful and stimulating environment. (818) 780-4808 6245 Matilija Ave. Valley Glen www.shalevfamilyhomes.com

The Gardens, Tarzana
Independent living, personalized assisted living (818) 342-0003 18700 Burbank Blvd, Tarzana, CA  91356 www.brookdaleseniorliving.com

Concepts for Living
Referral service that works to find appropriate assisted living or retirement communities for senior clients. Services are free. Located at 6351 Owensmouth Ave., Woodland Hills. Call (818) 340-7272 or (800) 414-4242. Visit  www.conceptsforliving.com.

Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging
Featuring two village campuses that offer opportunities for independent living, board and care, skilled nursing services, a transitional care facility, on-site medical clinics, transportation, housekeeping and laundry services, spiritual counseling and three Kosher meals per day. 7150 Tampa Avenue, Reseda. Call (818) 774-3000, visit www.jha.org.

Belmont Village
Offering independent living and assisted living services, featuring three meals per day, 24/7 licensed nursing, weekly housekeeping, transportation, utilities and licensed physical therapists. Social, educational and recreational activities include classes, current events, bridge and mah jongg, and entertainment. Encino location: (818) 788-8870. Burbank location: (818) 972-2405. Visit www.belmontvillage.com to learn more.

Sunrise Senior Living of Studio City
Assisted living, independent living, and specialized Alzheimer's care. Offers group events and activities such as lectures, current events, a book club, drama classes, chamber music performances and more. 4610 Coldwater Canyon Blvd., Studio City. Call (818) 505-8484 or visit www.sunriseseniorliving.com.

University Village Thousand Oaks
A variety of housing options such as assisted living, Alzheimer's care, skilled nursing, and independent living, which includes housekeeping, maintenance, transportation, fine dining, pools, a golf course, a beauty salon and an on-site bank. Long-term coverage included. 3350 Campus Dr., Thousand Oaks. Call (800) 915-2113 or visit www.uvto.com.

Grandparents as Parents
Weekly support group meetings for grandparents and other relative caregivers who are raising their grandchildren because the parents cannot. Tuesday evenings, Sherman Oaks from 6:30-8:30pm. Call Sylvie at (818) 789-1177 for info.

Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles
Social and health-oriented programs offer counseling and support to seniors and families. Care management services, companionship, Medicare Part D assistance, special services for Holocaust survivors and senior outreach services. Call (323) 932-0316 for outreach services, or (818) 789-0995 for caregivers. Valley Storefront Senior Center is located at 12821 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood. Call (818) 984-1380 or email ValleyInfo@jfsla.org.

Helping Hands Caregivers
Certified Nurse Assistants and Home Health Aides offer light housekeeping services, hygiene assistance, meal and medication management, transportation and post-operative care. Live-in or live-out caregivers available. 31240 La Baya Drive, Suite C, Westlake Village. Call (818) 865-1887 or (805) 529-9667.

SunLight Senior Care
An affiliate of the East Valley Multipurpose Center offers socialization, physical, art and music therapy, meals and transportation. Sliding scale fee. Also provides caregiver support groups, respite care, counseling and caregiver benefits. Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. (818) 763-8254 or email dawnatsunlight@sbcglobal.net.

Visiting Angels
Caregivers offer live-in or live-out service including light housekeeping, companionship, meal preparation, transportation, home maintenance, medication supervision and more. 6901 Topanga Canyon Blvd. #202, Canoga Park. Call (818) 887-3810, visit www.visitingangels.com/la, or email visitingangels-la@msn.com.

Families of Aging Parents Support Group
Sherman Oaks Hospital offers a support group on the second and fourth Wed. of each month, 6-7pm, Doctor's Conference Room, 4911 Van Nuys Blvd. (818) 990-2573.

Parkinsons Support Group / Bereavement Support Group
People with Parkinsons Disease, their families, and friends meet to share experiences and insights about coping with this neurological illness. Mon. 1:30-3pm. "Starting Over" Bereavement Support Group. Attend this free, ongoing support group that meets twice every month throughout the year. 1st and 3rd Mon.10:30-11:30am. All classes and support group meetings are held in the Health Education Center at Valley Presbyterian Hospital, located at 15107 Vanowen Street in Van Nuys. (818) 902-2977.

Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center
Diabetes management, cancer center, rehabilitation services, laboratory, intensive care unit, heart and vascular center, home hospice programs and "Beyond 50" senior services. 501 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank. Call (818) 843-5111 or visit www.providence.org/losangeles.

Circle of Care Leeza's Place
A community-centered resource offering programs that educate, empower and energize both caregivers and those recently diagnosed with any memory disorder. Scrapbooking, caregiver workshops, memory fitness, grief workshops and more. 5000 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 110 Sherman Oaks. For class schedule visit www.leezasplace.org or call (818) 817-3259.

Valley Presbyterian Hospital
Featuring orthopedic and rehabilitation care, physical therapy, cardiovascular services, and the "VPH Vitality" program offering senior yoga and exercise classes, support groups and Vitality lectures. 15107 Vanowen Street, Van Nuys. Call (818) 782-6600 or visit www.valleypres.org.

weSPARK Cancer Support Center
Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. Free services include support groups for patients and their loved ones, yoga, guided imagery, tai chi, qi gong and more. Please call for an intake prior to participation. (818) 906-3022.

Accent on Seniors
This free referral placement service offers personalized recommendations to over 2,000 retirement, assisted living, board and care, skilled nursing and Alzheimer's/dementia facilities throughout California. This state licensed agency assists seniors and their families when "home" is no longer an option. (818) 401-0200, (888) 954-6637, www.accentonseniors.com.

H.O.P.E. Unit  Foundation for Bereavement and Transition
Serving the community since the 1970s, this non-profit, non-denominational group offers seven weekly therapeutic support groups including widow/widowers, loss of a loved one, and a cancer support group. P.O. Box 8034, Calabasas. Call (818) 788-4673 (HOPE) or visit  www.hopeunit.org.

University Village
A variety of housing options such as independent living, which includes housekeeping, maintenance, transportation, fine dining, pools, a chip n' putt, a beautiful salon and an on-site bank. Assisted living, Alzheimer's care and skilled nursing with long-term coverage included. 3350 Campus Dr., Thousand Oak.  Call (800) 915-2113 or visit www.uvto.com

UCLA Department of Psychiatry
Participants sought for senior depression and well-being research programs by Dr. Anand Kumar, MD.  Study includes psychiatric and medical evaluations along with brain MRI. (310) 825-2742

West-Val Pharmacy
Providing immunization vaccines, walkers, braces and canes, wheel chairs, diabetic supplies and more. Also offers assistance services with Medicare Part D. Valley-wide delivery. 5353 Balboa Blvd. Encino. Call (818) 788-2411.

CVS Pharmacy
The vision is to help people live longer, healthier, and happier lives. An integral part of this is their investment in the communities they serve. www.cvs.com

Los Angeles Department of Aging
Offering emergency hotline numbers, Emergency Alert Response System, social security and Medicare assistance, legal services, transportation, meals, adult daycare program, support groups and a community service program. Call (800) 510-2020 or (213) 252-4030; visit www.cityofla.org/doa/index.htm.

Partners in Care Foundation
Charitable, non-profit organization offers health care programs for seniors, uninsured individuals, families and children. Home services, accessible care and disease management aim to improve seniors' quality of life. Call (818) 837-3775 or visit www.picf.org.

Encino Tarzana Medical Center Support Groups
Support groups for insulin, early loss, lupus, surgical weight loss, one-on-one carbohydrate counting classes and more. Diabetes support group meets the 4th Wed. of each month. 18321 Clark St., Tarzana. Call (818) 345-8955 for schedules.

Comfort Keepers
Caregivers provide companionship and in-home assistance with meal preparation, cleaning, transportation, medical reminders, feeding, bathing and incontinence care. 17915 Ventura Blvd. #216, Encino. Call (818) 776-5060 or visit www.comfortkeepers.com.

Fountainview at Eisenberg Village
Sponsored by the Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging, a full-spectrum senior community featuring independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing. Under construction; to be completed 2009. Will include a meal plan, housekeeping and maintenance, utilities, wellness programs, and educational and social opportunities. For more information, call Jeryl Strongin: (818) 906-6221.

Safe Home Care Services
Provides in-home caregivers that offer services in meal preparation, walking assistance, bathing, medical supervision, transportation and housekeeping. 9320 Rhea Ave., Northridge. (818) 727-7747.

Celestial Care Agency
Live-in caregivers offer nursing, meal preparation, transportation and housekeeping services. Call (818) 357-1936.

MedicTag
Digital USB personal medical alert and information TourPaks www.tourpaks.com (877) 401-5573



Volunteer Opportunities

Brandeis University Women National Women's Committee
Fundraising group benefiting Brandeis University Library and health related scientific research. Membership provides local and national leadership development opportunities, community service, educational study groups and social opportunities. Visit www.brandeis.edu/ bunwc or call (781) 736-4191 for chapters in the SFV.  Open membership.

Executive Service Corps of Southern California
Composed of more than 100 pro bono consultants who are retired from senior positions in major corporations, businesses, governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. The Corps matches these consultants with nonprofit agencies that are seeking assistance in one or more managerial areas. To learn how to become a consultant, visit www.escsc.org, call (213) 381-2891, or email exec1@escsc.org.

American Jewish University Women Volunteer Group
University Women, an integral part of the University of Judaism for 44 years, seeks volunteers who seek to express their cultural, artistic and community interests while supporting the university. The University Women mount programs, classes and concerts, and volunteer at the gift shop where they raise money for student scholarships. Location: University of Judaism, 15600 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles. For more info, call Betty Carmona: (310) 440-1283, bcarmona@uj.edu.

Grandparents and Books Volunteers Needed
Help books come alive for kids and share the fun of reading, for just a few hours each week. Contact Children's Librarian Beth Jacobsen for information. Sherman Oaks Library, 14245 Moorpark St. (818) 205-9716.

Hospice Volunteers Needed
Procare Hospice is seeking volunteers to provide support to those facing a life-limiting illness. Volunteers make home visits, lend an ear, offer caregiver relief, and more. Training class begins soon. Call Sara Berman for more information. (818) 895-8000.

Become a Docent at the Autry
History buffs and Western enthusiasts are invited to participate in this year's docent training classes at the Autry National Center. For more information, contact our Volunteer Services Manager (323) 667.2000 ext. 242.

Become a Docent at the Skirball
The Skirball seeks diverse and dynamic individuals interested in exploring the Jewish experience and the commonalities among cultures to join the Skirball's growing volunteer docent corps. For more information about becoming a docent, call (310) 440-4656.

Become a Docent at LACMA
The Docent Council is seeking volunteers to lead tours of the permanent collection and special exhibitions. For more informatuin, email a request to admissions@lacmadocent.org or by calling (323) 857-6119.



Senior Discounts

Premier Car Wash
Offering a $7.99 car wash for seniors every day. 17432 Ventura Blvd. Encino. Call (818) 788-6332.

Laemmle's Town Center 5
Movie tickets are $7 for seniors 62 & over with ID (regular price, $10). 17200 Ventura Blvd. Encino. Call  (818) 981-9811.

Nail Garden
Seniors 65 and over get 15 percent off regular priced services such as manicures and pedicures, Monday to Thursday, 9am-2pm. 10939 Ventura Blvd. Studio City. Call (818) 506-4868.

AMC Universal City 18 and IMAX
Special ticket prices for seniors over 60. 100 Universal City Plaza, located in Universal CityWalk. Call (818) 508-0711.

Arclight Cinemas
Special ticket prices for seniors over 60. Located in the Sherman Oaks Galleria, 15301 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks. Call 818-501-7033

Angel City Yoga
Offering a variety of styles, from beginner to advanced. Seniors aged 62 and over receive 20 percent off regular prices. 12408 Ventura Blvd. Studio City. Call(818) 788-9642 or visit www.angelcityyoga.com.

Catch 21 Restaurant
Seniors 62 and over get a free soup or salad and a free drink with certain meals, including fish or chicken. Located at 17316 Ventura Boulevard in Encino.  Call (818) 789-3474.

Pace Bathrooms
Pace Bathrooms is a full service walk-in bathtub company. Fully licensed and insured .(916) 768-4434 www.pacebathrooms.com

From the Encino Sun, 3/28/08 - 4/3/08 issue