Hydration and Your Skin: Keeping Elderly Skin Healthy During Summer

As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to the effects of dehydration, especially during the hot summer months. For seniors living in memory care Phoenix, maintaining proper hydration is crucial for skin health. Here are some tips to ensure elderly skin stays healthy and hydrated during summer.

The Importance of Hydration for Skin Health

Hydration plays a vital role in maintaining the elasticity and integrity of the skin. Dehydrated skin can become dry, itchy, and more prone to irritation and infections. For seniors, the skin’s natural ability to retain moisture decreases with age, making hydration even more important. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to keep the skin hydrated from the inside out.

Choosing the Right Fluids

While water is the best option for staying hydrated, there are other fluids that can also help. Herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and vegetable juices are excellent choices. For residents in senior apartments Phoenix, having access to a variety of hydrating beverages can encourage increased fluid intake. It’s important to limit caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Hydrating Foods

Incorporating hydrating foods into the diet can also support skin health. Foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and strawberries have high water content and can help keep the body and skin hydrated. For those in senior living Phoenix, a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables is beneficial for overall health and hydration.

Skin Care Routine

In addition to internal hydration, a good skincare routine is essential. Using a gentle, hydrating cleanser can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are effective in locking in moisture. For seniors in memory care Phoenix, caregivers can assist in applying moisturizers regularly to prevent dryness.

Sun Protection

Protecting the skin from sun damage is crucial during summer. Seniors should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves, can also help shield the skin from harmful UV rays. For those seniors, outdoor activities should be planned during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun exposure.

Signs of Dehydration

It’s important to be aware of the signs of dehydration, which can include dry skin, dizziness, dark urine, and fatigue. For residents in assisted living Phoenix, staying hydrated can help prevent these symptoms and maintain overall health. Caregivers should monitor fluid intake and encourage regular hydration.

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin, especially during the summer months. By drinking plenty of fluids, eating hydrating foods, following a good skincare routine, and protecting the skin from the sun, seniors can keep their skin healthy and radiant. Whether living in retirement communities Phoenix, or memory care Phoenix, these tips can help ensure that elderly skin stays hydrated and healthy.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Albuquerque

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community offers all-inclusive, holistic care to those with memory impairment and provides all the amenities and services needed for the best life possible. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ every need.   While a secure area, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding, and safe and inviting common areas, both inside and out. 

When a family comes to MorningStar of Albuquerque looking for care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, our experienced team is ready to help.  Even before we welcome a new resident to our loving community, we take the time to meet with them and their family to learn as much as we can about the person including their medical history, background, talents, and personal preferences.  We then use this information to create an individualized care plan that is used to stimulate or calm a resident in response to a particular mood or situation. 

Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  The comprehensive program allows us to introduce a more insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  Moreover, as it guides every aspect of our dementia care, all team members attend eight hours of interactive Lavender Sky training to help give them a better understanding of the disease.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s 21 memory care suites are available in studio and one-bedroom floor plans; and our home is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Having a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia is difficult, and we want you to know we are here to help. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about trusted memory care at MorningStar.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

MorningStar of Santa Fe Offers Holistic Memory Care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of dementia brings with it and wish to share the burden. 

MorningStar’s comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create an individualized care plan.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities leverage the power of dance, music, art and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment.  We are also proud to offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

Another thing that makes MorningStar a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about outstanding senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

Does a Loved One With Alzheimer’s Disease Need More Care?

A Place for Mom’s website explains how many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia can live independently with or without the help of in-home caregivers or family members. However, they also stress there may come a time when the disease progresses to a stage where the person’s safety and physical well-being is in jeopardy and more care is needed. 

As a person with Alzheimer’s may have good days and bad, it can be hard to tell if they would be better served in a memory care community. Experts say signs include: has their appearance changed? Do they look unkempt and have they lost weight due to forgetting to eat? Do they appear agitated and confused? Are they unable to carry on a conversation?  

Your loved one’s healthcare provider can help you decide if it is time for memory care. Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says, “When talking about memory care, or some form of a different living arrangement, I’ll center the talk around their ability to perform the activities of daily living and safety.” 

A Place for Mom says to gauge a senior’s abilities and safety, your doctor may ask if they:

• Get lost on routes they take frequently, such as going to the grocery store or taking a walk around the neighborhood

• Have trouble remembering to eat or drink

• Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately

• Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual

• Had a fall or been to the emergency room recently

• Leave the stove on after preparing food

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community provides compassionate memory care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please see our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

MorningStar’s Senior Living in Santa Fe Offers Memory Care

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Santa Fe is specifically designed to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of residents suffering from memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This distinct area of our community focuses on providing the finest care to meet the special needs of residents.

Care in the Reflections Neighborhood begins with a high staff to resident ratio. All team members are trained in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach.  This training gives employees a better understanding of the disease and more tools for effective, compassionate treatments. In addition, residents receive daily health monitoring with access to licensed nurses and other third-party service providers.

When people visit our memory care area for the first time, they are impressed with the comfortable atmosphere of our home.  Although a secure setting, independence is encouraged and residents can explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. MorningStar’s approach to care incorporates Montessori-based therapies and includes wellness programs and activities. Activities that leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals are used to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory loss.

Our 29 memory care suites come in a choice of studio and one-bedroom floor plans. Each unit is equipped with an emergency call system and a full, handicap-accessible bathroom. Included in the monthly fee are basic cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences.  MorningStar of Santa Fe recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we believe it is important to provide the support they need.  Please visit our website for more information about our individualized, holistic memory care.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

MorningStar of Albuquerque Offers Holistic Memory Care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of dementia brings with it and wish to share the burden. 

MorningStar’s comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities are designed to calm or stimulate as the situation requires. 

Another thing that makes MorningStar a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve.  Please visit our website to learn more about outstanding senior living in Albuquerque, NM.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Possible Causes of Memory Loss

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. 

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. 

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve. 

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable.  

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque’s MorningStar community offers specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque and our company’s approach to care. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

Understanding and Managing Arthritis in Senior Adults

Arthritis is a prevalent condition that affects many senior adults, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Managing this condition effectively is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. Seniors residing in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and memory care Phoenix have access to various resources and support systems designed to help manage arthritis symptoms. Here’s what seniors need to know about understanding and managing arthritis.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Arthritis symptoms can vary but commonly include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. These symptoms may be more pronounced in the morning. Recognizing these signs early is essential for prompt management. Facilities specializing in senior living Phoenix and assisted living Phoenix often provide educational sessions to help residents identify and understand arthritis symptoms.

Staying Active

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis. Exercises like walking, swimming, and tai chi can improve joint function and reduce pain. Many retirement communities Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix offer fitness programs tailored to seniors with arthritis, focusing on gentle exercises that enhance mobility without putting undue stress on the joints.

Pain Management Techniques

Various pain management techniques can help alleviate arthritis symptoms. This includes both medication and non-medication approaches such as hot and cold therapies, massage, and acupuncture. Memory care Phoenix and other senior care settings often work with healthcare providers to create personalized pain management plans for residents with arthritis.

Nutritional Support

Diet plays a significant role in managing arthritis. Anti-inflammatory foods like fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, fruits, and vegetables can help reduce joint inflammation. Nutritionists in assisted living Phoenix and senior living Phoenix can assist residents in planning meals that support joint health and overall well-being.

Access to Professional Care

Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are crucial for monitoring arthritis and adjusting treatment plans as needed. Retirement communities Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix facilitate access to medical care, ensuring residents receive the support they need to manage their arthritis effectively.

Adapting Living Spaces

Adapting living environments to make daily tasks easier can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors with arthritis. This may include installing grab bars in bathrooms, using ergonomic tools and utensils, and choosing furniture that provides better support. Assisted living Phoenix and memory care Phoenix are designed with these adaptations in mind, providing a comfortable and accessible living space for seniors.

Understanding and managing arthritis is essential for senior adults to maintain their independence and enjoy their golden years with minimal discomfort. Through a combination of staying active, effective pain management, nutritional support, professional care, and adapted living environments, seniors in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and memory care Phoenix can effectively manage arthritis symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.

MorningStar Offers Trusted Memory Care in Albuquerque

If you are looking for comprehensive, compassionate memory care for a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Albuquerque. Our unique approach to memory care is all-encompassing and provides an environment in which your loved one is given the support they need to make the most of each day. 

Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted and safe. To ensure the safety and well-being of residents, the area is completely secure, including the courtyard. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

We know it is devastating when a family receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease and we feel called to help by shouldering some of the burden. Our team is made up of the kind of individuals who recognize it is a privilege to serve and are trained in our signature “Lavender Sky” program, which uses Montessori-based therapies. Regardless of the level of memory loss, we strive to foster a nurturing environment for the highest quality of life. 

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create an individualized care plan to address their needs. 

As a resident, your loved one will receive 24/7 care from trained care managers and daily health monitoring. In addition, they will have access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers.  Residents participate in a variety of wellness programs and activities including exercise, music, dance, art and special events. Please contact us for more information about trusted memory care or assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Memory Care: Activities to Keep the Mind Sharp

For seniors, especially those experiencing memory challenges, engaging in activities that stimulate the mind is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and enhancing quality of life. In memory care Phoenix, as well as in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, and senior apartments Phoenix, a variety of programs and activities are designed with this goal in mind. Here’s how these activities can make a significant difference in keeping the mind sharp and engaged.

1. Brain Games and Puzzles

Cognitive exercises such as crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and brain games can be both fun and beneficial for mental acuity. These activities challenge the brain, improve problem-solving skills, and can enhance memory retention. Many memory care Phoenix facilities incorporate these games into daily activities, offering a fun and stimulating environment for residents.

2. Creative Arts

Engaging in the arts, such as painting, drawing, or crafting, stimulates the imagination and encourages creative thinking. For residents in senior living Phoenix and assisted living Phoenix, art programs provide an outlet for self-expression and can improve cognitive skills by focusing on detail-oriented tasks.

3. Music and Dance

Music has a profound effect on the brain, with the ability to evoke memories and stimulate emotional responses. Singing, playing an instrument, or moving to music can enhance cognitive function and memory recall. Retirement communities Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix often host music and dance events, encouraging participation and social interaction among residents.

4. Physical Exercise

Physical activity is not only beneficial for physical health but also for cognitive well-being. Exercises like walking, yoga, and tai chi can improve mental focus and memory by promoting blood flow to the brain. Facilities specializing in memory care Phoenix offer tailored exercise programs that accommodate the abilities of all residents.

5. Social Interaction

Regular social interaction can prevent feelings of isolation and depression, which are known to contribute to cognitive decline. Engaging in group activities, shared meals, or simply conversing with others can stimulate the brain and improve mood. Communities in senior living Phoenix and retirement communities Phoenix provide ample opportunities for social engagement.

6. Lifelong Learning

Continuing to learn new things keeps the brain active and engaged. Whether it’s taking a class, attending a lecture, or learning a new hobby, challenging the brain with new information can strengthen cognitive pathways. Assisted living Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix often offer educational programs and workshops for residents.

Incorporating these activities into the daily lives of seniors, especially those within memory care Phoenix, can significantly contribute to maintaining and even improving cognitive functions. By fostering an environment of continuous learning, creativity, and physical activity, seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and mentally stimulating lifestyle.

MorningStar of Albuquerque Offers Experienced Memory Care

MorningStar of Albuquerque is proud to offer exceptional assisted living and memory care.  Our parent company, MorningStar Senior Living, operates 35+ senior living communities across eleven states.  This means MorningStar of Albuquerque benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained in their 20 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling to provide care to our most special residents.  By devoting a separate area to memory care called our Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.  To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure courtyard to allow them to enjoy being outdoors.

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  We also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.

We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  For trusted senior living in Albuquerque, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

MorningStar of Santa Fe Offers Trusted, Holistic Memory Care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe offers individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 memory care suites, and we are equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe’s holistic memory care is personalized and compassionate supported living under what we call Lavender Sky, which is the way we thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore to find purpose and encouragement in every aspect of daily routine. As dementia care specialists, we deeply understand the disease and know regardless of the extent of memory loss residents deserve to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. All team members are trained in MorningStar’s brand standards of Lavender Sky and in the pathology of dementia and brain disease. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing, dressing and have the tools to calm or stimulate a resident as needed.  

The Reflections Neighborhood was designed to provide a secure setting yet permit residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  We offer a wide selection of meaningful wellness programs as well as purposeful activities including a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, and entertainers. In addition, we offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

Mealtimes are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, we know you want the very best memory care; and we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please visit our website to learn more our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy of caring for seniors. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Santa Fe

MorningStar offers unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  Along with 56 private assisted living suites, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   MorningStar of Santa Fe’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help.  Our memory care area is in a separate area specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings safely and easily.  Within the safe haven of our Reflections Neighborhood, we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. 

Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents.  Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Thus, each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information about compassionate, loving memory care in Santa Fe.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Memory Care in Phoenix: Strategies for Supporting Seniors With Dementia

Many residents in memory care in Phoenix often struggle with the usual activities of daily living due to their underlying conditions, like dementia. It might be tough for them to keep their spaces clean, interact with others, and perform personal grooming tasks. 

Dementia is undoubtedly a stressful and serious condition, both for those afflicted with it and the people around them, but luckily, there are several strategies you can use to make seniors with dementia feel safe, secure, and loved. With that said, below are some of the best ways to support seniors with dementia who are in memory care in Phoenix:

Patience Is Key

You’ve been told many times that you must be patient with seniors who are struggling with dementia, but there’s merit to that sentiment: Seniors with memory problems, more often than not, can’t help how they feel or act. 

They tend to feel confused and might take out their frustrations on staff members or loved ones, but that is all normal from a medical perspective. That won’t make their condition any less overwhelming to deal with, unfortunately, but it adds context: Remember, your loved one likely doesn’t understand what’s going on. 

How to Handle Your Frustrations

As the lucid adult in the room, it’s your job to support your loved one or residents as best as you can. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to take some deep breaths and remove yourself from a situation should you feel overwhelmed or angry. 

Once you’ve started shifting your mindset, you may find it easier to remain patient and help seniors with dementia work through their feelings. It’s not an easy job, but it must be done. 

Implement Routine and Structure as Much as Possible

Dementia makes life confusing and difficult to navigate, so seniors in memory care in Phoenix thrive on structure and routine. The more stability they have, the better, so use consistent routines whenever possible to make things more manageable for them and yourself. 

These can include eating schedules, grooming rituals, and sets of rules for certain activities. For example, if a senior with dementia wishes to go on an outing, a common rule is that they must go with a staff member or loved one. That creates enough consistency to show them they are safe and taken care of. 

While seniors with dementia might not always respond very well to strict rules and structure, they ultimately rely on it for their well-being, so don’t skip out on consistency when caring for your loved one. 

Use Signs and Flashcards to Help Them Remember Things

The more visual cues that a senior with dementia is exposed to, the more likely they are to remember important things. You may want to label essential everyday objects like their toothbrush or walking shoes so that they don’t have to rely on their increasingly inconsistent memory. They can just read the label and go about their day. 

A Supportive Environment: Memory Care in Phoenix for Seniors With Dementia

Seniors in memory care face lots of challenges each day, but you can follow the above tips to work toward making their care less stressful for both of you.

Designing Dementia-Friendly Spaces: How Memory Care Environments Support Seniors

Dementia is a common condition that many older adults develop as they age. Though dementia is not rare, its symptoms can manifest differently for different people. This is why assisted living communities specifically for memory care in Phoenix will design their private and communal spaces with all kinds of dementia experiences in mind. 

What does it mean for a space to be dementia-friendly? Here are a few ways a memory care facility can help to make their residents with dementia feel more at ease and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Supporting Independence With Careful Design

Depending on how advanced an individual’s dementia is, their independence and motor skills may be significantly affected or hardly affected at all. Dementia-friendly living spaces will make it easy for residents to remain independent for as long as possible. 

This includes plenty of safety measures and visual reminders to avoid confusion or wandering. Additionally, outside spaces are secure yet inviting, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors independently. 

Keeping Familiarity at the Forefront

Individuals with dementia can become confused easily, especially in situations that are new or different from what they’re used to. Curating a sense of familiarity for residents is important in memory care in Phoenix. Helping residents to feel comfortable in their surroundings can significantly reduce unpleasant dementia symptoms.Since people with dementia tend to feel more comfortable in settings that remind them of their home, many memory care facilities design their spaces to feel home-like rather than having a medical or institutional feel. 

When individuals feel like they are surrounded by the comforts of home and familiar sights that they can recognize, they’re much less likely to become confused or upset. 

Preventing Overstimulation With Simplicity

A simple design is key for dementia-friendly spaces. Though they should feel like home, they shouldn’t be too visually busy or crowded with decor. Too many colors and patterns or a feeling of messiness or disorder can make older adults with dementia feel overstimulated. 

This can cause them to become upset and irritated or to wander away in search of a more comfortable place, which could be dangerous. 

Creating Areas for Quiet Relaxation

Though you can take steps to make a space as safe, familiar, and soothing as possible, overstimulation and confusion are bound to happen with residents of memory care in Phoenix. When it does, having designated places where residents can go to relax, regain their composure, and feel safe again is crucial.  

Supporting Older Adults With Carefully Curated Memory Care in Phoenix

Dementia can be a difficult reality to face, but there are so many steps memory care facilities can take to make their spaces inviting and safe. This way, symptoms can be kept to a minimum, and quality of life can greatly increase.

Is a Loved One’s Forgetfulness Cause for Concern?

It is worrisome to notice changes in a spouse, parent or another loved one’s health. If those changes involve the person’s memory, thinking or behavior, it can be hard to know what to say or do. The Alzheimer’s Association explains while you may be unsure on how to best approach the issue, these changes could be a sign of a significant health concern. They offer the following advice on how to sort through the changes. 

The first thing is to think about what is causing your concern and how out of the norm is it for the person? Then consider what else may be going on in the person’s life such as changes in their physical health or other stress factors that could impact their mental state. Remember depression and diabetes can cause changes in a person’s mental acuity. 

Now take a look at the Alzheimer’s Association’s 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementia diseases. Do these common signs seem to be in line with the type of things you are worrying about? If they do, you may want to enlist some help from other trusted family members or friends.

Start by asking them if they too have noticed any changes in the person’s behavior. If there is an agreement on something being amiss, experts say it is best if one or two people are selected for the task of discussing the problem with the person as a crowd may be too threatening.

Good conversation starters can be something like, “I have noticed some changes in you, is everything okay?,” or use a specific example of something troubling you have noticed the person doing. Offer to go to the doctor’s with the person; and if the first talk is not productive, try again. Keep in mind, the Alzheimer’s Association’s website has a lot of resources and support so take advantage of the help.
​
MorningStar at Arcadia provides memory care Phoenix families can trust to compassionately care for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease. Our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options; and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood is built to accommodate the specialized, individualized needs of our most tender residents. In addition to memory care, we offer 78 assisted living suites for seniors who require a little help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). Call us to schedule a tour to one of the finest assisted living and memory care communities Phoenix offers.

MorningStar’s Memory Care in Santa Fe

At MorningStar of Santa Fe we offer all-inclusive, holistic memory care to those with memory impairment and provide residents all the amenities and services needed for the best life possible. Distinct from our assisted living area, the Reflections Neighborhood is designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings safely and easily. In addition, we are proud to offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for memory care residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

When a family comes to MorningStar of Santa Fe looking for care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, our experienced team is ready to help.  Even before we welcome a new resident to our loving community, we take the time to meet with them and their family to learn as much as we can about the person including their medical history, background, talents, and personal preferences.  We then use this information to create an individualized care plan that is used to stimulate or calm a resident in response to a particular mood or situation. 
​
Our approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  The comprehensive program allows us to introduce a more insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  Moreover, as it guides every aspect of our dementia care, all team members are asked to attend eight hours of interactive Lavender Sky training to help give them a better understanding of the disease.  

Along with assisted living and memory care, we also offer respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (up to a full month) so you can see if we are a good fit. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

MorningStar at RidgeGate Offers Specialized Memory Care

If mom or dad, or another loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you want the finest care for them. MorningStar at RidgeGate is just such a place. As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, founded in 2003, MorningStar at RidgeGate is committed to using best-practices including Montessori-based therapy techniques to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for our residents.

We understand the challenges a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease presents for the whole family and believe it to be an honor and a calling to help. MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  

All our employees receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents.  The eight hours of training includes the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.  

Moving a parent into a memory care community is often a difficult decision to make. However, once a family chooses MorningStar, we are there every step of the way to walk your loved one through the transition. Our first step is to get to know all we can about the individual such as their background, talents and personal preferences by using a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized service plan in accordance with the family. 

Along with memory care, MorningStar at RidgeGate offers independent and assisted living in the Highland Ranch, CO area with a broad range of amenities, wellness programs and activities.  We also welcome residents for short-term stays (30 days or less) for those times when a senior’s regular caregiver needs a vacation or when recovering from surgery or an illness. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care, independent living or assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO and the surrounding area offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at RidgeGate. 

Memory Care at MorningStar of Santa Fe

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating and we want families to know we are here to help. Our community offers loving, compassionate care to those with memory impairment in our Reflections Neighborhood. The MorningStar Senior Living company brings 20 years of experience to memory care in senior communities across eleven states.  

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available.  We are different from other communities in that every aspect of our memory care is designed from the ground up to accommodate residents. Secure and inviting, the Reflections Neighborhood gives residents as much freedom as possible. In addition, we offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

Through the rigors of MorningStar’s Lavender Sky training, our staff truly understands Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-loss conditions; and after a family decides to place a loved one in our care, we get to work. This starts by learning as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and personal preferences through a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” Using this information, we create a specialized, individualized care plan that helps to calm or stimulate as a particular situation needs. 

Meals are attractively served, and tasty as well as nutritional. Many foods are easily eaten with fingers to accommodate those who may have trouble using a fork and knife. In addition, our wellness programs keep residents purposefully engaged and leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort, as we focus on residents’ unique needs.         
Along with memory care, we offer assisted living as well as respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month). Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.
​
MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

4 Ways to Treat Your Senior with Something Special

Every year on August 21, we celebrate the lives of our loved ones on World Senior Citizens Day. The special day highlights the achievements and contributions of seniors, as well as promotes their rights. Although August 21 has passed, you can celebrate the special day by treating your senior to something special.

At our senior living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, we help residents with daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning. Meeting our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” also involves helping seniors feel engaged and fulfilled during their golden years. On behalf of celebrating World Senior Citizens Day regardless of the time of year, let’s take a look at four ways to treat your seniors to something special.

Ask for Help

One reason why seniors can become detached emotionally is they no longer feel wanted by their friends and family members. After years of providing primary and secondary care for family members, they lose their sense of belonging the minute they move into an assisted living facility. You can rejuvenate the sense of belonging by asking your senior loved one to teach you how to do something. Asking for help on a project is another way to treat your senior to something special. 

Just because your senior loved one needs a little help taking care of a few responsibilities does not mean you cannot complete projects together such as planting a garden or restoring an old piece of furniture.

Highlight History and Achievements

One of the goals of World Senior Citizens Day is to honor the history and achievements of older adults. You do not need the pomp and circumstance of a formally declared day to highlight the history and achievements of your senior loved one. Preserving your senior loved one’s history and achievements helps him feel appreciated. You can work together on a personalized scrapbook, as well as give her a do-it-yourself memoir journal such as The Story of My Life. Another great idea involves conducting an interview chronicling the life of your senior loved one.

Get Involved in Your Senior’s Life

Moving into an assisted living community can trigger a wide range of negative emotions, such as fear, stress, and anxiety. One of the most effective strategies to alleviate emotional distress for a senior is to get involved in her life. This can mean volunteering for the same organization, as well as donating financially to your senior’s favorite cause. You also can work together with your senior loved one, which should give him a sense of purpose and a feeling of worthiness.

Dine Together

One of the best ways to treat your seniors to something special is to enjoy meals together. At our memory care facility in Phoenix, we encourage family members to join us at mealtimes to provide emotional support for their loved ones. Dining onsite with a senior loved one helps you meet her friends, as well as catch up on what has unfolded since the two of you last interacted in person. We also encourage family members to take their senior loved ones out to their favorite restaurants, which is a clear sign that you are treating your senior loved one to something special.

The Bottom Line: Make Your Time Together Quality Time

As a family member, you might feel a sense of regret when your senior loved one moves into an assisted living facility in Phoenix, AZ. To compensate for the feeling of regret, you might try to make it up by visiting your senior loved one every day. It is not how often you treat your senior to something special. Instead, the quality of the special treat matters more than how often you treat your senior to a special event.Discover why our memory care facility receives five-star reviews by scheduling a tour today.