Riverstone Senior Life Services

Programs

Six programs that work in synergy to provide complete services for seniors and caregivers

Memory Center

An engaging social adult day center designed for people with memory loss. A safe space to sing and dance, engage in discussion, laugh and socialize. Caregivers will also find multiple avenues of support, from benefits assistance to exercise classes and respite.

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Caregiver Services

Riverstone recognizes the importance and challenge of being a caregiver. An array of free services help you find balance. Support groups, yoga, Memory Cafe and professional guidance and tips for self-care. And much, much more.

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Senior Center

For recreation, exercise, food and fun, our bright and inviting neighborhood center is a meeting space for people 60+ to create new friendships and discover new activities. Want to try tai chi? Learn Facebook? Dance salsa? We have an activity for you!

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Social Services

Need answers for benefits questions? Eviction prevention? Money management? Mental health and substance abuse? Experienced social workers work with you or your loved one one-on-one for helpful solutions.

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Open Door

A social adult day program for adults with a developmental disability, offering activities from arts and crafts to exercise to help engage and integrate participants into the daily life of the senior center. This intimate program allows for personalized attention.

HealthHome

It has been demonstrated time and again that we all do better, physically and mentally when we have someone on our side. To accomplish this, Riverstone has partnered with NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital to provide a full range of support and case management services to reduce hospitalization of older adults who have Medicaid.

It only takes a moment to help change someone's outlook on life: Our 2018-2019 Annual Appeal needs you!

Show us how you can help! Donate now.

What makes Riverstone special?

Read some stories about our clients

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Capability

Riverstone cares

Some of the caring faces at Riverstone

Ilana Dunner

Executive Director

Ilana has been the Executive Director of Riverstone since 2011. Contact Ilana at idunner@riverstonenyc.org

Carmen Nuñez

Memory Center Director

Carmen has been the Director of the Memory Center since 1994. Contact Carmen at cnunez@riverstonenyc.org

Laura Ruiz

Senior Center Director

Contact Laura at lruiz@riverstonenyc.org

Xanthe Sonza

Social Services Director

Xanthe has been with Riverstone since 2012. Contact Xanthe at xsonza@riverstonenyc.orgt

Martine Morales

Open Door Group Leader

Martine is new to Open Door as of fall 2017.

Nina Bash

Fiscal Manager

Nina Bash has been the Fiscal Manager at Riverstone since 1993. Contact Nina at nbash@riverstonenyc.org

Norma Rodriguez

Administrative Assistant

Norma has been Administrative Assistant at Riverstone since 2006. Contact Norma at info@riverstonenyc.org

Testimonials

See what clients say about Riverstone

“Your program has offered [my mother] new friends and a staff that is so in tune with her needs. Though she still has difficulty getting up early on Mondays and Thursdays, she wouldn’t miss her days at the center for anything… I am deeply grateful to your staff for all you do. In these difficult times that my mother and I are sharing, she has been able to be part of a community again. I knew on my first visit [to Riverstone] that I had found the perfect place for her. Her life is fuller and happier, and her happiness means the world to me.”

From a caregiver

“… having visited other centers, I can tell you that you have a service delivery model that truly reflects “cultural competence.” The stimulating, interesting and professional environment I witnessed during my visit has been a highlight for me. As I speak at different conferences across the nation, I cite your many outstanding abilities and programs as a model of leadership and services for vulnerable elderly from diverse communities.”

From a social work professor

“I am writing to thank you for helping to save a man’s life… Your agency helped him to find a new home [after erroneous eviction] where he can live safely with his companion animal. You also helped to unify our community in a common purpose… We have seen that a community can work together to help one of its members in need.”

From a concerned friend

See a short video on Riverstone and our services: see some happy faces!

Go to Riverstone YouTube channel

Latest News

Riverstone in the community

How Seniors Can Ensure Safety and Independence at Home

Guest post by June Duncan of Rise Up for Caregivers (Photo from Pixabay) For many people, living at home throughout their golden years is a priority. In fact, some statistics indicate as many as 90% of seniors prefer to age in place. If you are like the vast majority of those who hope to Read more about How Seniors Can Ensure Safety and Independence at Home[…]

Support Group for February 16

It’s time for caregivers! If you care for a family member with memory loss, consider joining us in the support groups listed below. Grupos de apoyo para cuidadores RSVP with Melissa Abreu, mabreu@riverstonenyc.org, 212-927-5600, x 111 Feb. 7th and 21st English 12:30p – 1:30p 14 y 28 de febrero en español 12:30p – 1:30p and… Read more about Support Group for February 16[…]

Living with Alzheimer’s

Program for relatives/friends of someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementia in the early stage. When someone has a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia, family and friends face new questions as they adjust to the progression of the disease. Join us to learn more not only about the disease, but also about its stages, behaviors, Read more about Living with Alzheimer’s[…]

January 20 Memory Cafe

Caregivers: Bring your loved ones for a chance to PAINT!

There is still time to help seniors before year-end

Thanks for your holiday donations — Consider seniors and caregivers for end-of-year giving!

How to Be an Effective Caregiver from Miles Away

Guest Post from June Duncan of RiseUpforCaregivers.org When someone you love is far away, figuring out how to provide effective care and support can be a tough challenge. You want to be there in person, but sometimes it simply isn’t possible. Thankfully, there are ways you can bridge that distance and be the caregiver Read more about How to Be an Effective Caregiver from Miles Away[…]

Living with Alzheimer’s

Free educational program in partnership between Alzheimer’s Association and Riverstone Senior Life Services An educational session to learn more about memory problems, Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia! If you know someone who is affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia, join us to learn the facts. This program provides information about causes and risks Read more about Living with Alzheimer’s[…]

Intergenerational fun!

Riverstone Memory Center has partnered with Sweet Readers, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower young people to change the course of Alzheimer’s as they revitalize and learn from those in need. Together, seniors with memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia will enjoy weekly meetings with children where they will Read more about Intergenerational fun![…]

This Sinking Island

A performance by The Anthropologists

A cruise for caregivers!

Riverstone and Sunnyside Community Services invite caregivers to a cruise!

It only takes a moment to help change someone’s life

In the time that it takes you to read this page, another person will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. You may know someone close to you who confronts this struggle, or is a caregiver. On a national level, we face a serious problem. On a local level, Riverstone seeks to address Read more about It only takes a moment to help change someone’s life[…]

How to keep your brain engaged and active

Guest post by George Mears of Brain Wellness As we age, our brains break down little by little just as our bodies do. Without proper care, a lack of strong bonds between cells can become dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, so it’s important to know the right ways to ensure your brain is in good shape. Read more about How to keep your brain engaged and active[…]

Continuing Education Presentation

September Memory Cafe

A special rhythm session for family caregivers and loved ones. Sunday, September 16 at 12:30pm.

A Senior’s Guide To Downsizing Without The Stress

Guest post by June Duncan of RiseUpforCaregivers.org Whether finances have you moving across town to a smaller home or you’re moving across the country to an assisted living facility near family due to health concerns, downsizing can be an emotionally difficult time. The wide range of feelings that come with decluttering and parting with long-held Read more about A Senior’s Guide To Downsizing Without The Stress[…]

Democratic Dialogues

Manhattan Neighborhood Network: Maria Luna interviews Carmen Nunez, director of Riverstone Memory Center

Advice on How to Plan and Pay for Long-Term Care

Important guest post by June Duncan, of Rise Up for Caregivers The possibility of needing long-term care is something that most people don’t want to think about—much less plan for. But if you’re one of the 70 percent of people over the age of 65 who end up needing it, it’s best to be prepared Read more about Advice on How to Plan and Pay for Long-Term Care[…]

Seniors Create!

See remarkable art show with simulated stained-glass alcohol in paintings done by Riverstone seniors!

Advice for Caregivers on Working Self-Care into Their Daily Routine

Guest post by June Duncan of RiseUpforCaregivers.org Caregiving is one of the most stressful jobs imaginable. There are long hours spent meeting the physical, mental and emotional needs of a loved one who relies on you as a companion as well as a care provider. There are precious few opportunities to unwind and spend a Read more about Advice for Caregivers on Working Self-Care into Their Daily Routine[…]

Two chances to win with Riverstone Gala Raffle

Special raffle for two tickets to HAMILTON on Broadway ($20)! AND a $5 raffle for a chance for one of five prizes: from a $500 Delta gift card to a George Foreman grill. See GALA 2018 tab above and get your tickets now.

The Danger of Denial: Accepting the Truth about Alzheimer’s Disease

Guest post by June Duncan of RiseUpForCaregivers.org It’s easy to understand why some people deny that a loved one is exhibiting signs of dementia and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Accepting that there’s a serious problem is admitting that they’re seriously ill, and that can be an emotionally wrenching admission. Not wanting to accept the Read more about The Danger of Denial: Accepting the Truth about Alzheimer’s Disease[…]

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