Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Elder Abuse Signs and Legal Remedies virtual workshop June 14

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June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month; June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Deadline to register: June 13 at 8:30 AM

By Susan Kim, Executive Director, Family Justice Center

Did you know…One in ten Americans aged 60 or older experiences some form of elder abuse? Elders who have been abused are 300% more likely to die than their peers.

Emily Milstein , Staff Attorney for Contra Costa Senior Legal Services, will provide training on Elder Abuse Signs and Legal Remedies during a virtual workshop training on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 10:00-11:30 AM.

The Contra Costa Elder Abuse Prevention Project (EAPP) prevents and combats elder abuse through an active community network that raises awareness and coordinates services.

Visit cocoelderjustice.org for more information about EAPP.

To register for the training click, here.

Three Romanians arrested for stealing Electronic Benefit Transfer information throughout state

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Charged with access device fraud in multi-district operation

California has reported loss of over $22 million due to EBT theft in first quarter of 2024, robbing low-income families of funds to buy food

By U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California

OAKLAND – Three individuals were charged with the use of unauthorized access devices were filed this week, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and United States Secret Service (“USSS”) – San Francisco Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Shawn Bradstreet.

The three defendants—Petrica Mosneagu, 44; Ionut Sopirla, 38; and Virgil Tudorascu, 42, all of Romania—were charged with stealing Electronic Benefit Transfer (“EBT”) account information and making fraudulent cash withdrawals at ATMs using that stolen EBT information in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1029(a)(2). The defendants were arrested in a multi-district, USSS-led operation, which resulted in several arrests this week, including in the Southern District of California.

According to the public criminal complaints, law enforcement agencies have been investigating EBT theft across California for the past fourteen months. The complaints allege that the California Department of Social Services has identified that approximately $22.8 million has been stolen from victim EBT card beneficiaries from January to March 2024 in California, including in the Northern District of California. Most of these stolen funds have been obtained by unauthorized ATM withdrawals. Furthermore, the complaints allege that victims of the scheme are largely low-income families who depend on EBT benefits to buy food and other household necessities.

The complaints allege that the defendants fraudulently withdrew cash with “cloned” cards, which are debit cards, gift cards, or other devices with magnetic strips that have been encoded with information from legitimate EBT cards. The account holders’ account information was primarily “skimmed” at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals. Skimming devices recorded victim account holder account information on the magnetic strips and log their PINs through keypad overlays. Once skimmed, the victim account holders’ account information was then loaded onto blank or repurposed debit cards, which the defendants then used to withdraw cash or make purchases.

If convicted, each defendant face a maximum statutory sentence of ten years in prison on each charge. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

Defendants Mosneagu and Sopirla made their initial appearances Tuesday morning in Oakland and will appear for their detention hearings on April 10, 2024, before the Honorable Kandis A. Westmore. Defendant Tudorascu made his initial appearance Thursday morning and will also appear for his detention hearing on April 10, 2024.

Criminal complaints only allege that crimes have been committed, and each defendant must be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis James and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Glimcher are prosecuting these cases, with the help of Katie Turner and Kay Konopaske. These prosecutions are the result of an investigation by the USSS, California Department of Social Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), San Francisco Human Services Agency – Special Investigations Unit, Pleasant Hill PD, Richmond PD, Oakland PD, Berkeley PD, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Romanian National Police, and U.S. Secret Service Bucharest.

Respite stays offered at TreVista Senior Living & Memory Care in Antioch

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Is your loved one or patient on the path to recovery from an injury or illness, yet facing challenges in safely returning home after being discharged from a hospital or skilled nursing facility? TreVista is here to provide the support and care needed during this crucial healing phase.

🏡 Safe Haven for Recovery: TreVista offers a safe and secure environment, allowing your loved one or patient to focus on recovery without the worries of returning home prematurely. Our furnished guest rooms and comforting common spaces create a supportive atmosphere.

👩‍⚕️ Expert Care Around the Clock: Rest assured, our dedicated care staff, supervised by experienced nurses, is available 24/7 to provide the highest level of support. Your loved one’s or patient’s well-being is our top priority.

💪 Accelerate Recovery with Physical Therapy: TreVista is committed to facilitating your loved one’s or patient’s recovery journey. Take advantage of our supportive services while your focus remains on essential physical therapy, ensuring a stronger and safer return home.

🍽️ Nourishment for Healing: Delight in our delicious home-cooked meals, thoughtfully prepared to provide the nutrition needed for a speedy recovery. A healthy diet is integral to the healing process.

🌈 Tailored Services for Holistic Care: Our respite program offers additional services, including medication management and personal assistance, to address individual needs. We tailor our support to enhance the overall well-being of our residents.

📅 Flexible Admission for Your Convenience: TreVista understands the urgency of recovery. Our flexible admission process allows for a seamless transition, even on weekends. Your journey to healing starts when you need it.

🎁 Special Offer: Stay for 3 Weeks, Get The 4th Week Free! 🎁*

TreVista’s Respite Program is more than just a temporary stay; it’s a transformative experience leading to a stronger, safer return home. Contact us today to embark on this journey of recovery, where care and support redefine the path to wellness.

For details contact Tamsen Meierdierck, Senior Living Consultant – TreVista Antioch at (925) 470-3395.

TreVista Senior Living & Memory Care is located at 3950 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. To learn more visit trevistaseniorliving.com/trevista-at-antioch.

*Terms and conditions apply. Offer subject to availability.

Paid advertisement.

Active at 90: Walnut Creek man sets personal planking record

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Dick Evans holding his impressive, record-breaking plank. Photos: The Kensington at Walnut Creek.

Dick Evans holds plank for a record-breaking one minute, 45 seconds  

By Uniqua Williams, Pierpont Communications, Inc.

Dick Evans exercising in The Kensington at Walnut Creek fitness center.

Walnut Creek, Calif. (October 3, 2023) – The Kensington at Walnut Creek – a Kisco senior living community – is highlighting one of its most avid health fanatics, Richard (Dick) Evans. Even at the wise age of 90, Evans remains a shining example of the positive impact an active lifestyle can have on aging gracefully, consistently achieving active goals that many people struggle with. In the words of Evans, “Use it or lose it” is a simple yet profound motto to live by when it comes to staying active.

Originally from Northern New York, Evans has been a proud Californian for the last forty years, and a beloved member of The Kensington community since 2020. Prior to joining The Kensington, Evans enjoyed a range of activities that kept him fit and active, such as walking a mile or two every day and frequently playing golf with his wife. Since his integration into the community, he has continued his commitment to staying active, participating in Physical Therapy courses at the community eight to nine times a week, participating in balance classes and even engaging in activities with PE instructors who frequent the community.

“Staying active is extremely important to me,” said Evans, resident at The Kensington. “One of my biggest goals is to live to be 100 years old. I know a big part of being able to achieve this is through continuing to stay active and living a healthy lifestyle. Which is what I’ll continue to do for as long as I can.”

Maintaining an active lifestyle offers many benefits as one ages gracefully. It serves as a powerful shield against various health concerns, effectively lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, it enhances one’s strength and balance, reducing the likelihood of injuries and fostering independence. Moreover, an active lifestyle can alleviate pain, elevate mood, mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression, sharpen cognitive abilities, decision-making skills and so much more.

The Kensington provides a diverse range of accommodations and resources to wholeheartedly support residents who wish to maintain an active lifestyle. These offerings encompass weekly putting contests as well as onsite physical therapy classes. The community also offers many physical education courses from yoga, stretching, dance and more.

“The exercise classes the community offers have been a tremendous help, not just in keeping me active but also in maintaining my social connections within the community,” said Evans. “It’s important, especially in places like this, to find a group of people who either share your active journey or are simply pleasant company. Having a support system truly makes all the difference and keeps you motivated to keep going. I know that if I quit my active journey, I’d deteriorate quickly, and I definitely don’t want that.”

During one of Evans’ recent physical therapy sessions, his instructor threw down the challenge to see how long he could hold a plank. In the spirit of fun, Evans accepted the challenge and surprised everyone by holding his plank for an impressive one minute and 45 seconds – longer than even he thought possible. Evans, his instructor, and the whole community were proud of his remarkable achievement, a clear testament to his ongoing dedication to enhancing his balance and core strength.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Dick,” said Kayla Pierce, wellness director at The Kensington. “He serves as an incredible source of inspiration for all of us within the community, encouraging us to persistently pursue our goals. Dick brings immense joy to our community, and his unwavering commitment to staying active and assisting others shines brightly as an embodiment of the vibrant spirit we strive to create here.”

One of Evans’ favorite pastimes is leisurely strolling around the community and engaging in friendly conversations with fellow residents. He firmly believes that these interactions have been a powerful motivator, encouraging him to maintain an active lifestyle while also offering support to others on their journeys. For Evans, a fundamental philosophy is lending a hand whenever possible. During his daily walks, he finds joy in extending a helping hand to those in need along the way.

“Ever since my wife’s passing, I’ve found myself navigating this world alone, and staying active has become a vital lifeline,” said Evans. “It’s more than just exercise; it’s a lifeline to social connections. Staying active keeps me engaged with others, filling my days with purpose and meaning. Without it, my days could easily feel lonely or empty.”

In reflecting on his active lifestyle, Evans offers sage advice to those looking to stay active and lead a healthy life:

“It has to be your own decision; you’ve got to want to do it. And if you make the decision, you have to stick with it. You can’t do it one week, then drop off the next. Once you start, you’ll realize it’s not just about staying healthy; it’s about a healthy mind, making friends and getting back to the things you love.”

Evan’s story serves as a powerful reminder for all of us: it’s essential to prioritize our health. Staying active holds a wealth of benefits, regardless of age, and can unlock potential we never knew we had.

About the Kensington at Walnut Creek:

Life at The Kensington is vibrant, fulfilling and as active or carefree as you desire. The community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care in a friendly environment where our residents and associates enjoy being served and serving others. Our caring team of associates will customize a care program that is right for you while you continue to enjoy your friends, hobbies, and new opportunities at The Kensington, surrounded by mature redwood trees and filled with the comforts of a modern resort. The Kensington is an oasis in Walnut Creek, tucked away from the bustle of the city, but close enough you could walk. To learn more, visit our website or call 925-693-7784.

Learn about dementia Thursday, Sept. 7

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Join Tre Vista Antioch’s free virtual event: Understanding and Navigating Late Stage Dementia

Dementia has several stages, each with its own set of challenges. Late-stage dementia, in particular, requires a caregiver to adjust their communication and the care they provide. Join our community for a special virtual presentation featuring presenter Erinn Drouin, Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association of Nebraska. Erinn will teach you how to better connect and care for your loved one with late-stage dementia.

, , 4:00-5:00 p.m. (Pacific)

: bit.ly/TreVistaEvent

* Once you have registered, an email with a link to join the Zoom will be sent to your email before the event starts.

For more information, contact TreVista Antioch at 925-470-3395 or Antioch@agemark.commailto:Antioch@agemark.com.

 

Op-Ed: Unlocking the boundless potential of aging through transit

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CCTA partners with Choice in Aging, Mobility Matters to provide free, door-through-door services for senior residents.

By Federal Glover, Chair, Board of Directors, Contra Costa Transportation Authority

Last week, on National Senior Citizens Day, we were reminded of the barriers that exist for our older community members. While we celebrated our elder citizens’ incredible contributions to society, we reflected on our responsibility to bolster resources that support independence as people age. One resource in particular, transportation, is a crucial component to enhancing our senior citizens’ quality of life and local governments have a responsibility to address the challenges to utilizing essential services.

Throughout California, there are public health and human resources that stay true to the theme of boundless potential in aging, but an element that often gets overlooked is transportation. Transportation, which has a uniquely human element in carrying people through life, has not been designed with senior citizens in mind. Instead, seniors often face countless institutional barriers that prevent them from taking trips to medical appointments or the grocery store – simple trips that are important for people’s independence.

At CCTA, we believe in equitable access for transportation and our “Mobility for All” model doesn’t just address cars, bikes, buses, or trains–but also the mobility needs of our veterans, people with disabilities, and seniors.

There is a gap in accessible transportation for seniors and it is critical to design transportation systems to meet the unique needs that come with aging.

CCTA’s job is to create transportation that all residents can access. Most importantly, we have a responsibility to understand the human element of transportation – to understand how people use our services beyond moving from “Point A” to “Point B”. Whether your destination is a doctor’s appointment, a family dinner, or a book club, transportation is necessary to bring you to and from the places that matter to you.

CCTA has engaged with community members to understand how residents are using our service and what changes or needs they have. Since 2021, we have used the Accessible Transportation Strategic Plan (ATSP), which has given us direct insights into these community needs. The ATSP was born from the 2017 Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP). One of our goals of this strategic plan is to become a one-stop-shop for residents, to consolidate our resources so that residents can easily navigate services, and to understand the gaps in those services so that we can best serve our community.

CCTA partners with Choice in Aging, as well as Mobility Matters, which provides free, door-through-door services for senior residents. This system is fueled by over 160 volunteer drivers in the County. We are proud that this program has helped deliver 69,015 rides since 2005. We also support our transit partners’ para transit One Seat One Ride program. Our goal is for seniors and disabled individuals to have “one seat” journeys–so that a trip across the County does not have to involve multiple transfers between trains and buses.

CCTA is constantly looking at ways to use innovation to improve and expand services to older adults. To improve mobility in the Rossmoor Senior Community, early next year CCTA will launch an autonomous shuttle service. These shuttles will keep senior residents connected by bringing them to essential services and goods within their community.

CCTA is committed to continuing our efforts to improve transportation for our senior population. We encourage community feedback to best understand how to fulfill your needs.

We’ve made remarkable strides but recognize that there is always more we can do to implement the vision of “Mobility for All”. We will continue to knock down barriers so that aging is not seen as a limitation– but rather boundless potential.

 

 

 

 

 

Walnut Creek senior living community celebrates resident BFFs on National Friendship Day Aug. 6

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Residents Judy Watson and Katherine Himmelman enjoy spending time together. Photos: The Kensington at Walnut Creek

By Uniqua Williams

Friendship makes the world go round. At all ages, having the support and consistency of friends is important. In a senior living community, like The Kensington at Walnut Creek, having a friend not only makes life more fun but offers many health benefits. In honor of National Friendship Day, Sunday, August 6, 2023, The Kensington is highlighting one of the community’s most popular duos. Judy Watson (82) and Katherine Himmelman (73) instantly formed a lasting friendship when they both moved into the community in early 2020. Since their introduction, this inseparable pair have experienced improvements in both their mental health and social experiences.

Watson and Himmelman credit their friendship to resident physical therapist and ONR specialist, Gena McCormick, who saw the potential of a lasting connection and introduced the two residents to each other during one of Himmelman’s physical therapy sessions with McCormick. McCormick mentioned that there was a nice woman at the community she thought Himmelman would be great friends with. The nice woman in question was Watson, and the rest was history.

Since then, the duo have been inseparable. They have shared many special memories and tend to participate in activities within the community together. One of their favorite things to do and some of their best memories have come from their regular walks they used to take up and down The Kensington driveway.

“Walking along the community driveway is what really brought us closer together,” said Himmelman. “It allowed us a space to share our thoughts and feelings openly. Having someone to confide in has been so helpful for the both of us, offering support through life’s ups and downs.”

Although their daily walks are what aided in solidifying their unbreakable bond, the two also enjoy participating in other activities within the community together, including having breakfast together every morning, joining exercise classes and even attending Sunday Mass. Throughout their time together, their friendship flourished – transcending age and time. These simple walks and daily activities created a profound connection, making each day brighter and reminding them both that true friendship knows no bounds.

Nowadays, Himmelman’s physical limitations have hindered the pair from taking frequent walks, but they find no shortage of ways to interact with one another. Through these interactions, Watson and Himmelman offer each other their constant support.

“I never thought I’d find friendship at this age, but it’s been beautiful, with no stumbling blocks,” said Watson. “I’ve learned how to turn Katherine’s frown upside down, and we share a special bond that defies expectations. Age has brought wisdom, and our connection feels effortless. We are grateful for this unexpected and cherished friendship.”

Several studies have shown that finding friends that are compatible is beneficial to both mental and physical health as we age. The average person tends to be happier and healthier when participating in activities with friends they care about. Increased socialization can result in a sharper memory, low blood pressure, and boost motivation for daily activities. At any age, the aspect of friendship is vital to achieving happiness and longevity.

“Judy and I found trust and understanding that encouraged us to be more social, navigating health problems and aging together,” said Himmelman. “We assimilated into the whole group, supporting each other to participate in various activities happening in the community, fostering a sense of togetherness.”

Even now, the two are still in awe at how their friendship has grown and flourished over the years. Through their togetherness, they’ve been able to continue to encourage one another and rediscover the joy of connecting with someone who truly uplifts them. Two completely different people, from opposite sides of life, found a way to form an unbreakable bond at such a wise age. A bond that many from later generations still struggle to find. For those, no matter the age, still looking to cultivate relationships as strong as the Himmelman and Watson duo, can take the advice from these two who do it best.

“Most people that move into assisted care have a difficult time,” said Himmelman. “Judy and I were lucky enough to meet each other. It gave us something to hold on to. As you age, treasure friendships like Judy and mine. They become lifelines, supporting you through life’s challenges. True friends bring joy, understanding, and a sense of togetherness. Embrace these when you can. That is essential.”

“Finding a pair to honor during National Friendship Day was no struggle when you have witnessed the bond that Judy and Katherine have,” said Kayla Pierce, wellness director at The Kensington “They are constantly encouraging and supporting each other. Having a blossoming friendship is extremely important in senior living communities.”

“If Kayla could pick us out as two people who have a good friendship worth highlighting, we must be doing something right,” said Watson.

About the Kensington at Walnut Creek:  

Life at The Kensington is vibrant, fulfilling and as active or carefree as you desire. The community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care in a friendly environment where our residents and associates enjoy being served and serving others. Our caring team of associates will customize a care program that is right for you while you continue to enjoy your friends, hobbies, and new opportunities at The Kensington, surrounded by mature redwood trees and filled with the comforts of a modern resort. The Kensington is an oasis in Walnut Creek, tucked away from the bustle of the city, but close enough you could walk. To learn more, visit our website or call 925-693-7784.

 

For members of the media interested in covering this story, email Uniqua Williams at uwilliams@piercom.com.

 

 

California receives $1.2 million of settlement with Concord nursing home for poor care

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State Attorney General Bonta thanks U.S. Attorney’s Office for assistance

California Attorney General Rob Bonta on Tuesday secured a settlement against a Contra Costa County skilled nursing facility resolving allegations of understaffing and patient abuse and neglect. The settlement resolves claims that for five years, San Miguel Villa subjected its patients to poor care due to understaffing and effectively rendered a number of its services useless. The settlement amounts to a total of $2.3 million, with California receiving $1.2 million. (See related article)

“Corporate profits should never be placed above patient needs and care,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Every patient is entitled to humane care, and skilled nursing facilities should always have the appropriate level of staffing to ensure this standard of dignity is met. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their critical help during the course of this investigation. With the help of our federal partners, my office will continue to protect the well-being of all Medi-Cal beneficiaries.”

In June 2017, the California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA) responded to a report from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California (USAO) involving allegations of overmedication of residents at San Miguel Villa. The USAO requested DMFEA’s assistance in the investigation. Conducted by DMFEA and the USAO, the investigation analyzed residents’ medical charts, surveys from the California Department of Public Health, prescription records, and publicly available staffing information from 2012-2017 – the time frame when the alleged mistreatment occurred. The investigation uncovered evidence of understaffing at the facility resulting in harm to residents, such as increased falls, patient-on-patient violence, weight loss, and overmedication to render patients more manageable. Tuesday’s settlement amounts to a total of $2.3 million, with California receiving $1.2 million.

The California Department of Justice’s DMFEA protects Californians by investigating and prosecuting those who defraud the Medi-Cal program as well as those who commit elder abuse. These settlements are made possible only through the coordination and collaboration of governmental agencies, as well as the critical help from whistleblowers who report incidences of abuse or Medi-Cal fraud at oag.ca.gov/dmfea/reporting.

DMFEA receives 75% of its funding from HHS under a grant award totaling $53,792,132 for federal fiscal year 2022-2023 The remaining 25% is funded by the State of California. The federal fiscal year is defined as October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2023.

A copy of the settlement is available here.

Concord nursing home to pay $2.3 million in settlement of grossly substandard care allegations

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Submitted false claims in billing to Medicare and Medi-Cal programs

By U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California

Tranquility Incorporated, a corporation doing business as San Miguel Villa which is a 190-bed skilled nursing facility located in Concord, CA, has agreed to pay $2.3 million to settle allegations that it submitted false claims by billing the Medicare and Medi-Cal programs for grossly substandard nursing home services it provided to its residents between 2012 and 2017, announced United States Attorney Stephanie M. Hinds and Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan. (See settlement)

The settlement resolves allegations that from 2012 to 2017 San Miguel Villa submitted, or caused to be submitted, claims to the Medicare and Medi-Cal programs for payment of its services that were grossly substandard and failed to meet minimum required standards of skilled nursing care in multiple ways. The United States alleges that nursing home residents at San Miguel Villa were overmedicated with psychotropic drugs, suffered excessive falls, were exposed to resident-on-resident altercations, and experienced other mental and physical harm.

“Residents of nursing homes are among the most vulnerable in our community, and they rely on Medicare and Medi-Cal programs to provide the care and services they must have,” said United States Attorney Stephanie M. Hinds. “Nursing homes are entrusted to impart competent and quality care to their residents. This case demonstrates that when federal funds are provided but substandard care is delivered, this office is committed to seeking accountability.”

“Nursing homes are intended to be places of comfort and healing, but the provision of substandard care jeopardizes the residents’ health and safety,” stated Steven J. Ryan, Special Agent in Charge with HHS-OIG. “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners are staunchly dedicated to investigating allegations of inadequate care at Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing homes.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Gioconda Molinari investigated the matter with the assistance of Paralegal Lillian Do and Auditor Garland He. The United States Attorney’s Office initiated the investigation with assistance from HHS-OIG as part of its ongoing commitment to ensure that nursing home residents receive the necessary skilled nursing home services that they are entitled to and require. The United States Attorney’s Office acknowledges and thanks HHS-OIG as well as the California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse for their assistance in investigating this matter.

Working in conjunction with the United States Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative, the United States Attorney’s Office runs an Elder Justice Task Force to identify and investigate nursing homes that provide grossly substandard care, and to support the efforts of state and local prosecutors, law enforcement, and other elder justice professionals who combat elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse at a nursing home, please contact the California Long Term Care Ombudsman Crisis line at 1-800-231-4024, or the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833–FRAUD–11 (or 833–372–8311).