A Message from Interim CEO Ben Armfield

At Sonoma Valley Hospital, supporting the health and vitality of older adults is central to our mission. With nearly 40% of our community over age 65, we’ve worked hard to ensure care meets the needs of every stage of life.

This year, our Age-Friendly Health System designation expanded beyond the hospital to include the Sonoma Valley Specialty Clinic Family Practice, where many of our seniors receive their day-to-day care. Together with partners like Vintage House and the Sonoma Valley Community Health Center, we’re also bringing Age-Friendly programs—such as wellness talks—into the community.

Throughout September, we’ll present the Active Aging & Wellness Series—four free Friday afternoon sessions led by local experts on topics related to aging ranging from navigating grief to improving sleep and embracing whole-person health.

As you enjoy this month’s newsletter, I invite you to join us in supporting healthy aging across Sonoma Valley. Thank you for your support.

Warmly,
Ben Armfield
CFO / Interim CEO
Sonoma Valley Hospital

Age-Friendly Care Expands Beyond the Hospital

Sonoma Valley Hospital’s journey as an Age-Friendly Health System continues to grow. With the guidance of Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Becky Spear, we have implemented changes across the hospital that make care safer, more personalized, and more supportive of older adults—enhancing the emergency department, improving post-operative transitions, and adding welcoming resting areas throughout our campus.

This year, we are proud to announce that our Age-Friendly Health System designation now extends to the Sonoma Valley Specialty Clinics Family Practice, where many of our community’s seniors receive their primary care. This expansion means older adults will experience Age-Friendly principles not only during hospital stays but also in their day-to-day healthcare.

Together with community partners like Vintage House, we’re ensuring that older adults have access to programs, education, and resources that support living well at every age.

“I am deeply grateful to see Sonoma Valley Hospital embracing the Age-Friendly Health System across so many departments. Over the past two years, we have continually strengthened and expanded this work, cementing our commitment to providing the highest quality, most compassionate care for older adults in our community, today and for generations to come.” Rebecca Spear DNP, ARNP, AGNP-C, GS-C, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

Spotlight on the Active Aging: Wellness Series

This September, we invite you to join us for four Friday afternoons of connection and learning at Vintage House. Our Active Aging: Wellness series brings together local experts to share practical tools for staying healthy, engaged, and thriving as we age.

We are also grateful to have Dawn Kuwahara, RN, Chief Ancillary Officer, serving as Master of Ceremony. Dawn’s 25 years of healthcare leadership and deep Sonoma Valley roots make her the perfect guide for these conversations.

Ask the Expert: A Conversation with Karen Mendoza

This month, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on Karen Mendoza, Family Practice Front Office Coordinator/Patient Access. Karen has been part of Sonoma Valley Hospital for 20 years, contributing her skills and warmth in departments ranging from Admitting and Occupational Health to Mammography, Physical Therapy, and our specialty clinics. Today, she brings that wealth of experience to the Family Practice team, where she is often the very first welcoming face patients see when they arrive.

Q: What first brought you to Sonoma Valley Hospital, and what has kept you here all these years?
I first came to Sonoma Valley Hospital because I wanted to be part of a place that really values community. Right away, I felt the difference — patients aren’t just numbers here, they’re neighbors, friends and family. What’s kept me here all these years is that sense of connection. The people I work with are like family, and together we get to make a positive impact every single day.

Q: Can you tell us about some of the roles you’ve had at the Hospital?
I’ve been fortunate to work in many different areas of the hospital over the years. I first started in Admitting, then spent 10 years in Occupational Health. After that, I worked for about 5 years in the specialty clinics, including Dr. Brown’s office, and I’ve also supported Patient Access, Mammography and Physical Therapy. For the past year, I’ve been part of the Family Practice team, which I really enjoy. Along the way, I’ve also had the chance to cover in many other departments whenever needed. Each role has given me a new perspective and helped me appreciate just how much teamwork goes into caring for our patients.

Q: As the first point of contact for so many patients, how do you see your role in shaping their experience at the Family Practice?
I think the first impression really matters. When patients walk through our doors, I want them to immediately feel welcomed and cared for. Whether it’s greeting them with a smile, answering questions, or just taking a moment to listen, I see my role as helping patients feel at ease and confident that they’re in good hands.

Q: For those who may not be familiar, what services does Family Practice provide, and how does it serve as a resource for patients of all ages?
The Family Practice really is a place for everyone. We see patients of all ages — from teens coming in for checkups to seniors managing ongoing health needs. We provide routine care, preventive screenings, and support for chronic conditions, but what makes us special is the ongoing relationships we build. Patients know they can come to us not just for care, but also for guidance and support at every stage of life.

Q: Sonoma has a large population of older adults. How do you and your team support our senior patients and make their visits easier or more comfortable?
We know that older adult patients sometimes need a little extra support, and we’re happy to provide it. That might mean offering help with check-in, making sure appointments aren’t rushed, or explaining things in a way that feels clear and reassuring. We also involve family members or caregivers when it’s helpful. Our goal is to create a warm, comfortable environment where our older adults feel respected and cared for.

Save the Date – Golden Harvest

Golden Harvest Senior Wellness & Resource Faire
Cosponsored by Cogir Sonoma Plaza, Vintage House, Sonoma Community Center
October 11, 2025, 10am – 2pm at the Sonoma Community Center

Join us for the 2nd Annual Golden Harvest Senior Wellness and Resource Faire, featuring local organizations offering valuable resources for older adults and their caregivers. Whether you’re looking for caregiver support, housing options, or health and wellness services, this fair has something for everyone.

Questions? Email community@sonomavalleyhospital.org or call 707.935.5257