We Care
WELCOMING A NEW SPIRITUAL LEADER
STAYING ACTIVE KEY TO HEALTH
As the new director of Spiritual Care at Baycrest,
Rabbi Dr. Geoffrey Haber is building on the
important contributions of Rabbi Dr. Nachum
Berlat, who fulfilled the role for 25 years before
retiring and is now senior chaplain emeritus
and scholar-in-residence.
For the past decade, the Marla & Aubrey Dan
Endowment Fund has helped to enhance the
quality of life for those who live in the Reuben
Cipin Healthy Living Community at Baycrest by
making social and wellness programs possible.
Now a new program is focusing on improving
the physical fitness of residents.
Rabbi Dr. Haber has more than 20 years of pulpit
experience in prominent synagogues in Canada
and the United States, coupled with pastoral
care, counselling and chaplaincy experience
gained in hospitals, hospice, rehab and military
settings. "I am delighted to be joining a premiere
institution and leader in geriatric care," he said.
"Baycrest's holistic and integrated approach to
care addresses the complete human being in
support of healthy aging. It is truly an example
of kavod habriot, honoring God's creations, and
emphasizes Judaism's respect for the elderly
within our community."
A satellite service of the Health Promotion
Department at Baycrest's Wagman Centre,
the program is designed to make exercise more
accessible to residents. "Physical activity has
countless benefits for older adults … Exercise
contributes to brain health, the prevention
and management of chronic diseases such as
diabetes and hypertension, and a decreased risk
of falls," said wellness coordinator Diana Colucci.
"For older adults, it's key to identify exercises that
are appropriate and safe to help them
reach their personal goals."
Rabbi Dr. Haber's' role is multi-denominational
and helps promote interfaith dialogue at Baycrest.
Rabbi Dr. Geoffrey Haber
mind
& body
10
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