Larissa Stepanians

  • COO

    Los Angeles Jewish Health

  • Address

    7150 Tampa Ave., Reseda

  • Phone

    855-227-3745

  • Website | Social

    lajhealth.org
    @lajewishhealth

  • Special Section

    Women Who Lead

Los Angeles Jewish Health, an award-winning nonprofit senior health care provider that was founded more than a century ago, offers an array of programs and activities for more than 4,000 older adults throughout Greater Los Angeles. Chief Operating Officer Larissa Stepanians joined the organization in 2013 and has worked in health care for more than 20 years. 

Why has there been a dramatic increase in new senior housing developments recently, particularly in the west San Fernando Valley? 

The number of people aging into the senior market is growing dramatically, and there is certainly a need for additional senior living accommodations. This need is why at Los Angeles Jewish Health, we have plans underway for growth and expansion with new facilities as we refresh and update our existing locations. Today’s older adults are quite sophisticated. Many have spent years working outside the home providing for the needs of their families and loved ones. Now it’s their turn to relax and enjoy their retirement years in the way they choose. We will be here to support them each step of the way. 

What led you to this career?

When I was a teenager, I volunteered at Keiro Senior Healthcare located at the original site of Los Angeles Jewish Health in Boyle Heights. This early experience deeply resonated with me, and I realized I wanted to make providing both health and care for seniors—especially those in need—my life’s work.

What are the latest trends in your industry that you’re loving?

One of the things that is exciting in senior care right now is that there are many of us working to ensure that we are meeting the needs of today’s seniors wherever their care needs might be at that moment. For instance, you may come to us very active, perhaps still working and seeking quality, safe, independent living options. As the years go by, you may require increasing levels of care and can remain in the Los Angeles Jewish Health continuum of care community. We specialize in coordinating care and services, from our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly to short-term rehabilitation following a hip replacement, memory and specialized geriatric medical care, and hospice and palliative care services. 

Photographed by Jeffrey Fiterman