Michael was inspired to put on the fashion show at Kingsley Manor, a senior living community in Los Angeles, because older generations are so often forgotten by the fashion industry. “I wanted to bring awareness to fashionable seniors,” Michael noted. “[Acting is] one of the few industries where you see seniors represented but you don’t see them much in fashion. I want to showcase older adults who love fashion.”

A Fashion-Filled Evening

For residents participating in the fashion show, the afternoon kicked off with having their hair and makeup professionally done by stylists who work in the film industry. After getting gussied up, Michael and four wardrobe stylists styled residents in special outfits chosen specifically for the runway that night. 

While resident models were busy getting ready, the Kurt Szul and Friends jazz band set the mood with soft tunes while guests snacked on hors d’oeuvres out on the Kingsley Manor patio. Fifty Kingsley Manor residents were joined by sixty outside guests in the audience to witness this fun and fashionable evening.

The show kicked off by showcasing clothing designed by Preston Douglas, who specializes in creating clothing pieces for dancers. Professional dancers hit the stage featuring Preston’s designs, dancing their way down the catwalk to showcase the versatility and movement in his pieces.

Following the dance portion of the event, the show paused for an intermission accompanied by music by DJ Daniel Gonzalez. With spirits high from the first half of the show and inspired by what they had just witnessed, guests broke into an impromptu dance party, moved by the DJ’s tunes.

The dance-filled intermission set the perfect stage for the second half of the show dedicated to the resident models. Michael notes that some of the residents were shy at the prospect of walking in a fashion show but his favorite part of the evening was “seeing residents blossom into the night” as they got more comfortable.

The resident portion of the show was broken into two sections, the first group of residents was styled by Michael while the second group was styled by volunteer wardrobe stylists. Participants walked and rolled down the runway, flaunting their outfits and bright smiles. Michael shared that “one model took it upon herself to kick it up a notch and stole the show. She had feared that she wouldn’t be able to fully participate but she took the moment in and completely embraced being on the runway.”

The audience and residents alike had a great deal of fun at the event and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “[The residents] want to do it again,” Michael shared. They’ve even asked to do another fashion show as soon as this summer. “I can’t even put into words how great it was,” Michael shared, reflecting on the event. “It brings me so much joy to see our residents light up.”

Future Events at Kingsley Manor

Michael is busy planning for upcoming events at Kingsley Manor. Currently, he is working on a Light Up the Block festival in August that will shut down the block in front of Kingsley Manor and transform it into a block party. Michael is looking to “light up the block with positivity,” and plans to feature local performers and invite the wider East Hollywood community, including the city council. To keep up to date with events at Kingsley Manor, check out the Kingsley Manor Facebook page and the senior living community’s website.

The fashion show is just one example of the eclectic events available to residents at Kingsley Manor. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of senior living in Los Angeles, check out our blog post all about the highlights of living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post A Night of Glitz and Glamour on the Kingsley Manor Catwalk appeared first on Front Porch.

On March 5, Seniorly announced that Casa de Mañana in La Jolla ranked in the top five in its Best of Senior Living Awards 2024. The San Diego Union Tribune reported on the honor on April 3. The story was also reported on KUSI’s website.

On March 26, The Oaklandside shared a feature article about how Home Match, Front Porch’s home sharing program, addresses homelessness and on April 2, KPIX also shared a story about the program on its evening broadcast. Home Match was also selected as the 2024 recipient of LeadingAge California’s Best Practice/Innovation of the Year Award in recognition for its work in homelessness prevention.

On April 16, Colorado Public Radio featured a segment on Social Call, Front Porch’s friendly visitor program, titled Overcoming loneliness and isolation with a simple phone call. The story featured conversations with a volunteer and participant as well as with Katie Wade, senior director for creative engagement.

On April 17, KFMB – CBS8 shared a story about the Men’s Shed program that is sponsored by Carlsbad By The Sea as they built a shed for ‘Raptor Ridge’.

On April 3, SuperMoney included Wesley Palms in San Diego in its Best Places to Retire in California 2024 guide.

On March 4, Senior Living Foresight posted about Front Porch’s involvement in the San Diego Senior Women’s Basketball Association.

On March 18, Front Porch shared a press release about Kingsley Manor as it hosted a fashion show in partnership with L.A. Fashion Week.

On March 15, Front Porch shared a press release, celebrating Friends House‘s 40th anniversary serving the Santa Rosa community.

The post Front Porch in the Media: March-April 2024 appeared first on Front Porch.

A Haven of Activities

East Hollywood is a bustling district filled to the brim with entertainment and cultural attractions. Within a 4-mile radius of Kingsley Manor, you’ll find treasures like the Griffith Observatory for the stargazers, the Greek Theatre for music lovers, and local parks like Barnsdall Art Park for those who enjoy serene nature walks.

Griffith Observatory

For those with their hearts in the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory offers an exciting journey into the mysteries of the universe. Experience the breath-taking views of the night sky through the Zeiss telescope, attend a live demonstration at the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon or simply marvel at the beautiful architecture of the Observatory itself. And don’t worry, accessibility is taken care of with ramps, elevators, and wheelchairs available for those who need them.

The Greek Theatre

Music enthusiasts, rejoice! The Greek Theatre is a world-renowned venue that hosts a variety of concerts and performances. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, classical, pop, or rock, there’s always something to pique your interest. Plus, with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics, it’s a pleasure for all ages. Enjoy an evening concert under the stars, or catch a matinee performance to beat the late-night crowds.

Barnsdall Art Park

For the nature lovers and art enthusiasts, Barnsdall Art Park is a true gem. Embark on a leisurely stroll through the olive groves, sit by the peaceful pond or take part in the weekly art workshops tailored for seniors. The park is also home to the famous Hollyhock House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, making it a must-visit for architecture buffs. Wheelchair paths and benches are scattered throughout the park, ensuring a relaxing visit.

Indulge in Delectable Cuisine

For the food enthusiasts, living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood is a paradise. A melting pot of cultures, you’ll find a diverse array of cuisines right at your doorstep.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the renowned Pacific French Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air. For lunch, a visit to Marouch is a must. This local favorite offers a taste of authentic Armenian and Lebanese cuisine. Capping off the day, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at Sushidan-LA, an authentic sushi restaurant offering an array of fresh sushi and sashimi options. Living in Los Angeles is not just about the sights, but also the delightful gastronomical journey.

Kingsley Manor: Your Home in East Hollywood

Its East Hollywood location isn’t the only thing that makes Kingsley Manor stand out from other retirement communities in Los Angeles. Residents enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and activity, with access to a plethora of amenities and events at this senior living community. Relax on the rooftop patios with views of Los Angeles, explore a new medium in art class and enjoy delicious meals in the dining room. Kingsley Manor embodies the vibrant spirit of East Hollywood while also providing the comfort and care essential to senior living.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.

Falls affect us all. The risk of falling increases with age. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults. If you slip, trip or fall, it could change your life. You could break a bone, take a trip to the hospital, be injured or develop a disability. Fear of falling may keep you from walking, shopping or taking part in social activities. Overcoming this fear can help you stay active, maintain your physical health and prevent future falls.

The good news is that there are simple ways and free online resources to reduce the risk of falling and help stay falls free. Here are some tips with hyperlinks on how to prevent most falls.

Exercise to Improve Your Balance and Strength

One easy way to prevent a fall is to improve balance and strength. The National Institute on Aging has tips on fitting EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY safely into daily life to help stay healthy as one ages. It also has tips with the right steps to take to PREVENT FALLS AND FRACTURES. Life enrichment and wellness directors offer many programs. Try walking, gardening, tai chi, yoga or whatever you enjoy.

Talk to Your Doctor or Pharmacist

Regularly review your medications and their side effects with your doctor or pharmacist. The National Council on Aging has a FALLS FREE CHECKUP that allows you to check your risk for a fall to help stay independent. Tell your doctor if you have fallen, even if not hurt. Get your vision and hearing tested. Ask a physical therapist about acquiring a walking aid if needed. Vitamin D and calcium can help keep your bones strong.

Make Your Home Safer

Make sure there are no cords, pet toys, loose rugs or excess furniture in your path. Clutter on your floors and around your home can make it more difficult to stay on your feet. Use the CDC STEADI initiative checklist to identify and ELIMINATE FALL HAZARDS in the home. Adequate lighting in hallways makes navigation easier. Ask an occupational therapist about a home safety evaluation.

Put in a request to add grab bars for the bathtub, shower and toilet if you think you need them.

Make Smart Choices

Be aware of personal abilities and limitations. Request help from someone for difficult or awkward tasks like retrieving objects on high shelves or carrying large or bulky items. The California Department of Aging’s FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM has fall and injury prevention education and information. Stand up slowly with your feet under you. Wear proper footwear. Don’t drink alcohol to excess.

Educate Yourself Today

Understanding fall risks is the first step to staying safer, reducing the risk of falling and helping stay falls free. Check out the free resources above for practical prevention solutions to do the right exercises, take proper care of yourself, make your home safer and ask for help when you need it.

The post Simple Steps You Can Take to Prevent Falls appeared first on Front Porch.

As an emerging painter in the 1950s, Simone Forti became interested in movement.

“I spent a lot of time at the zoo in those days,” said the Kingsley Manor resident. “The natural movements I saw in animals was fascinating and I began sketching them.  There’s a lot of poetry in movement.”

Simone soon began to explore human movement through dance and with the avant-garde art movement exploding in the 1960s, took the next logical step – her medium became movement.

For six decades, Simone has created iconic performance art, including a show at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles earlier this year. The show, simply titled “Simone Forti,” showcases more than 80 works including her 1960-61 “Dance Constructions,” in which dancers use knotted ropes to suspend themselves in space or, on a slant board, shifting their weight off the usual horizontal plane.

Now a renowned artist, that was not always Simone’s life plan. Following her graduation from Fairfax High School in Los Angeles, she attended Reed College in Portland, Oregon to study biology. She continued to paint and soon came to a crossroads. She had to decide whether to continue “to play it safe” by studying biology or follow her passion and become a full-time artist. “I knew it would be difficult to make a living as an artist but it’s something I never had second thoughts about.”

After studying for four years with famed dancer and choreographer Anna Halprin, who Simone considers her mentor, she knew there were many opportunities in New York City for artists. She was correct. “Dance Constructions” was first performed at Reuben Gallery in 1960, a pioneering gallery of happenings, events and new media art. Further “Constructions” debuted at Yoko Ono’s loft, the following spring.

She and several other artists rented a loft in Manhattan, working together and encouraging each other. “It was an exciting time,” Simone said. “Being with other artists really inspired me.”

While she is widely celebrated as a choreographer and dancer, Simone views herself more broadly as an artist who works with movement, using her own body alongside other materials and media. She has expressed this philosophy through her experimental holograms, drawings and videos from her “Illuminations” and “News Animation” series and drawings and photographs from her lifelong exploration of animal movement and the natural world.

“My challenge has always been to make something out of nothing,” Simone said. “That may be the challenge of any artist.”

These days, Simone’s inspiration comes from her life at Kingsley Manor, located not far from the excitement of the city, which she loves. She has shifted her focus to writing, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere among friends.

“I’m glad I can now be part of the Kingsley Manor community as an artist,” Simone said.

Photo Credits:

Simone Forti portrait, courtesy of Zuma News, LA, 2013.

“Dance Constructions” courtesy of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Photos by Jeff McLane

The post Simone Forti’s Medium is Movement appeared first on Front Porch.

Senior Director for Resident Experience Rebecca Johnson created the program to support residents’ connection to the community and to one another. “We feel a sense of place but don’t necessarily articulate it,” says Johnson. This program allows residents to gather over time “to capture in your words why you feel as you do.”

Each Front Porch community has its own unique geography, Johnson explains. “When we hear the word geography we think, ‘mountains, landscapes,’ which is certainly part of it,” she says. “But geography is also everything that humans build. When we wrote the program, we were intentional about discussing both the physical and social aspects of geography.”

Sense of Place provides a safe environment for people who may not normally speak up in the community to address concerns. “Sense of Place is outside of the committee or council structure,” says Johnson. “Sometimes residents are looking for a new way to share their voice, a less formal way beyond the surveys and the committees that are already in place.”

“I marvel at people who have the ability to come forward and speak their thoughts,” said one resident participant at Friends House in Santa Rosa. “It doesn’t come as naturally to me, but after listening to others, I feel I can talk like that. I feel comfortable here. I feel I’m in the right place.”

Jeannie Pressey, executive director of Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa says that Sense of Place is “an additional opportunity to gain insight from the residents on what’s working well and what they would like to see improved.”

Unlike a resident survey that provides a quantitative snapshot of the community at a moment in time, Sense of Place collects qualitative information that “puts the how, why, and what together in one place,” explains Mary McMullin, chief advancement officer for Front Porch. “A survey will tell us you think your community is great. Sense of Place allows us to understand why you think it’s great. It helps us identify rather than guess about the true community that’s here.”

Because residents were speaking directly with someone in person or on Zoom “instead of simply filling out the boxes on a survey, I feel that they were more comfortable in sharing their viewpoints,” Pressey notes. “And their views were clearly communicated as opposed to checking a box that says ‘are you satisfied? 1, 2, 3.’ You get some context on what people are trying to say.”

The program was open to any residents who wanted to participate, and a range of residents chose to join. “Having new and long-term residents in the same setting was critical,” Johnson says. She notes that newer residents who may have only experienced their community in the wake of the COVID pandemic with its lockdown protocols have a very different perspective than long-term residents who can recall and explain a community’s traditions. Meeting together gave residents a broader perspective on what community feels like based on their individual experiences.

Johnson compiled insights gathered during each session into reports for each participating community’s executive director, incorporating resident feedback, key questions, and recommendations for follow-up programs. Mark Nitsche, who became the executive director of San Francisco Towers during the Sense of Place pilot program, read the reports as a way to became familiar with the community. They allowed him to “really listen to what people are saying,” he recalls.

“People believe the ED is the last word, but it’s collaborative,” Nitsche says. Sense of Place allowed residents “to be a voice for the community and how you want to see community going forward. The program builds a sense of awareness, a sense of hope, and a sense of belonging.”

After testing the program as a pilot project at three Front Porch communities in 2022, Sense of Place is preparing to launch in more communities this year and may later be developed for use beyond the Front Porch system. Johnson is also gathering a working group to develop a new program called ATLAS, designed specifically for the new resident experience.

“Sense of Place is an influencer in decision making,” Johnson says. “It’s a platform for prioritizing the things that mean the most to residents, and one of those priorities is how residents, especially new residents, develop a sense of belonging and attachment in community. ATLAS is our natural next step.

“I’ve learned so much from the resident participants by leading this program. Each community is unique, with its own sense of place. This program has helped me to understand at a deep level what’s important for residents in their particular community. I can’t wait to discover more as we move forward with Sense of Place.”

The post At Front Porch Communities, Residents Discover their ‘Sense of Place’ appeared first on Front Porch.

The new lobby will boast a warm, contemporary design blended with a bit of whimsy, drawing inspiration from Hollywood’s bygone era. Decorative elements include pendent and recessed lighting; a mix of carpet, wood and tile flooring; new window treatments; classically designed accent furniture and bold artwork with a hint of nostalgia. The unique and charming circular seating around the lobby columns will remain but with updated fabrics.

The lobby color palette and style is a nod to the Beverly Hills Hotel – complete with palm motifs and bright cheerful colors to feel fresh year around. Artwork that reflects the Southern California lifestyle will be framed and displayed on the walls throughout the space.

“Our goal is to make the lobby a more comfortable space where residents can hang out and socialize with friends and family,” said Kingsley Manor’s Executive Director Ms. Liyon O’Quinn. “It will be brighter and bolder but stay true to the community’s Hollywood roots.”

The resident library will move from nearby Holly Cottage to the lobby. The Cottage will transform into a multipurpose Life Enrichment Center. Although plans for the Life Enrichment Center are still underway, preliminary designs show adding outdoor seating on an expanded patio that will also accommodate visiting entertainment. Additional large windows will allow in more natural light. An art studio and expanded fitness center are also being considered.

“We want the Center to be the hub of the community,” Liyon said. “Residents can enjoy events, attend classes, play some cards, exercise or just relax with a good book.”

These projects reflect Kingsley Manor’s commitment to improving resident experience by investing in capital projects that include the latest amenities. Renovations are scheduled to be completed in the spring. Kingsley Manor has been a Hollywood icon for more than a century. It is the only senior living community in the area that offers multiple levels of care for a monthly fee.

The post Lobby and Life Enrichment Center Remodels on Tap for Kingsley Manor appeared first on Front Porch.

“They were my inspiration along with my grandfather who was cook at a hotel in the Philippines,” Chino said. “That’s why I’m the executive chef at Kingsley Manor today. Doing this work has a place in my heart.”

As soon as he was able, Chino started from the ground up gaining experience anywhere he could toward his goal of becoming a chef. He was a dishwasher, worked in fast food and studied culinary arts at Mission College in Los Angeles. He moved on to hospital and restaurant kitchens, then got his chance to shine and share his passion for food and cooking in a family environment seven years ago when he joined Kingsley Manor as its sous chef.

“I was working at a restaurant and an old boss from a previous job was the executive chef at Kingsley Manor and he remembered me,” Chino said. “Out of the blue he asked me to come to Kingsley as his sous chef. I didn’t know what to expect, but wow, this turned out to be a great opportunity.” After several years, Kingsley’s executive chef left, but not before recommending that Chino replace him.

“I made it!” Chino said. “And I was, and am grateful for the opportunity. I’ve worked at many different places but there is something special about Kingsley. I get so much interaction with the residents. The residents are like my family and there is no better joy than to cook good food for your family. My mom and grandmother taught me that.”

Chino enjoys creating a variety of interesting and delicious cuisines. On any given day, the dining room is filled with Italian, Mediterranean, French, Spanish, Mexican, Indian and of course Filipino selections, among others. “Our residents are very adventurous and appreciate diversity so they like the variety along with good old American comfort food. They make it easy for me to experiment with new ideas.”

Chino is able to create menus for most diets, including gluten free, low sodium and low-fat, which residents appreciate.

“He’s a terrific chef,” said resident Virginia Elwood-Akers. “His daily specials are as good, if not better, than anything you will find at a nice restaurant. He goes out of his way to please you. He’s a special man.”

“He really makes an effort to accommodate everybody,” said resident Annabel Brennan, whose favorite dish is Chino’s spaghetti bolognaise.

Even though he has realized his career goal, Chino remains humble in his work. He reminds himself of that with a computer screensaver that says … “Stay humble, work hard, be kind.”

“My goal is to serve the residents the best food possible,” Chino said. “Our residents are a social group who enjoy good food and good conversation during meals. I’m glad I can play a small part in their joy.”

The post Familial Roots Drive Chef Chino’s Passion for Food appeared first on Front Porch.

“Jaycee loves to attend marketing events and talk to prospective residents about why he enjoys living here,” said Sales and Marketing Director Jeannie Weber. “I think our guests appreciate hearing from an actual resident with such an authentic voice and can see themselves becoming his friend and neighbor.”

Jaycee was born on a small island near Incheon on the west coast of South Korea. He spent his youth living with his parents and eight siblings in Japanese-occupied Seoul during World War II. He served as an officer in the South Korean Airforce in the 1950s but then decided to emigrate to the United States to study engineering and earn a master’s degree. During his 60 years in the United States he has lived in Oregon, Colorado, LA’s San Fernando Valley, the LA neighborhood of Hancock Park and now at Kingsley Manor.

“Kingsley Manor is a very pleasant place to live,” said Jaycee from his one-bedroom, fourth floor apartment overlooking the community’s sprawling “white house lawn.” “I remember when I arrived in April a year and a half ago, all of the roses were in bloom. I couldn’t believe

how beautiful everything was. I like talking to people so I’m happy to attend events and participate in discussions about Kingsley Manor. I just tell visitors my story and I think people who are looking to make the move to a retirement community relate to what I say.”

Jaycee recently participated on a panel with other Korean-American residents to answer questions about the welcoming environment at Kingsley. When he moved to Kingsley Manor, another resident took him under his wing and “showed him the ropes.” “I want to be a person like my friend and make new residents feel welcome,” he said.

Following the death of his spouse, Jaycee was faced with maintaining a house, cooking and cleaning. He decided to make a move to a retirement community but did not know where to start.

Jaycee and his family spent many years as residents of Hancock Park, an architecturally distinctive neighborhood of Los Angeles constructed in the early 20th century, similar to his home at Kingsley. “My oldest son, who lives about 10 minutes from here and my second son who lives 15 minutes away, suggested Kingsley Manor,” he said. “I think they knew it would feel like home to me and they were right.” Jaycee’s sons join their dad for dinner quite often. “They like the food here like me,” Jaycee said with a smile “But sometimes we like to go out to dinner too.”

Jaycee strolls the campus at least three times a day, receiving waves and well wishes from fellow residents. Looking at the roses never gets old.

When not walking, Jaycee’s favorite activity is playing Baduk, an ancient strategic game similar to chess that is played in many parts of Asia and believed to be the oldest board game continuously played to the present day.
“My brother-in-law comes by at least twice a week and we play,” Jaycee said. “I’m always looking for other players to challenge.”

The post Resident Jaycee Kim is Happy to be Your Guide at Kingsley Manor appeared first on Front Porch.

For years, I have enjoyed the comradery, services and social opportunities at the local LGBTQ Center. And thanks to the Center, I found my home at Kingsley Manor. When I asked my friends there if they knew of any senior living communities in the area I might like, many recommended Kingsley. They described it as an eclectic, friendly place filled with joy, diversity and acceptance. It was exactly the welcoming home I was looking for.

I must say, as a social kind of guy, the residents here are some of the most interesting I have ever met. I really get a kick out of talking to them at dinner or during a game of cards. We have actors, dancers, singers, engineers, business people, activists and homemakers, just to name a few. People representing so many cultures and lifestyles make Kingsley their home and I fit right in.

Kingsley’s location near Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood is about three miles from my family home and the LGBTQ Center, which means I can enjoy all of the things I’ve always loved to do, like visit friends, attend concerts, visit museums and work out at the gym, all accessible by nearby public transportation or transportation available at Kingsley. And because two of my favorite things to do are people watching and staying active, I look forward to my daily strolls around the neighborhood.

Although I have never been an artist, to my surprise, I became one at Kingsley. Right outside my window in this beautiful oasis, filled with city wildlife like birds, squirrels and rabbits, not to mention the exquisite architecture that embodies the community’s more than 100-year history. I love putting pencil to paper and sketching as much as I can including our gazebo, rose garden and unique frescos that surround the community.

One final thought … those Kingsley Manor sunsets! The living room of my second floor residence faces west, which means every evening I get to experience one of the most gorgeous sights imaginable! Just like me you can be yourself at Kingsley Manor. Come see for yourself.

— Resident John Hughes has lived at Kingsley Manor since 2019.

The post ‘Kingsley Manor Residents are Some of the Most Interesting People I Have Ever Met,’ says John Hughes appeared first on Front Porch.