Looking for a Gift for Your Elderly Loved One?

Have you been searching for something for your elderly loved one that would provide some comfort and help ease their feelings of loneliness and isolation?  While you may think now is not the best time for them to assume the responsibilities of a new pet, you may want to take a look at one of the many “robotic pets” in the marketplace. 

We know there has been a lot of research that supports the idea pet ownership is beneficial to seniors and a loving pet is a great companion.  Now researchers have also discovered that robotic pets may provide the elderly with many of the same benefits live animals do.   A 2017 study found that the interaction between older adults and animals, whether real or robotic, helped lower blood pressure, eased anxiety, reduced feeling of loneliness and improved the overall quality of life. 

The advantage of a low-maintenance robot dog or cat is they are easy for seniors with little to no tech savvy to “care for.”  The realistic pets do little tricks such as a robotic dog who wags its tail, raises its eyebrow when you pet it, has a heartbeat, and makes a barking noise.  For people with dementia, robotic pets have helped ease agitation and anxiety and seem to have a calming influence. 

In fact, New York’s Department for the Aging (DFTA) was so impressed with the pets that they implemented a program to distribute mechanical dogs and cats to a number of seniors with the aim of easing loneliness. The DFTA’s Commissioner, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez explains, “For the older person, social isolation really has a devastating effect on their health.”  

If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our loving community. We offer 128 bright suites for independent living along with 80 private assisted living suites with a choice of spacious floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.    

MorningStar of Sparks proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers.

Calming a Loved One with Alzheimer's Disease

People with Alzheimer’s disease may express feelings of agitation and anxiety, which can be caused by the frustration that comes with the inability to get others to understand what they need.  However, experts say there are some tips to help circumvent or prevent getting into situations that can become emotionally charged.     

If you feel the person is starting to feel anxious, it could be the environment they are in.  If this is the case, remove them to a quieter place and encourage them to rest or use soothing rituals that have worked in the past.  Often a noisy room including having a TV on can act as just such a trigger.  If that is not the problem, check to make sure the person is physically okay and that they are not hungry, thirsty or need to use the bathroom.  Also, make sure they are not too hot or cold.  If they are still able to communicate, get down to their eye level and ask them in simple words to tell you what they need.  Another approach is to distract them by taking a walk or putting on music and encouraging them to dance.  

While trying to calm the person down, make sure you do not raise your voice.  Remain speaking in a calm voice and give the person the time to try and express the problem.   If you feel the person is experiencing lots of periods of anxiety and agitation, it is a good idea to discuss it with their health care provider.  Also, make sure you have a good support system to share your experiences with and perhaps learn something from other caregivers.  

At MorningStar of Sparks, our mission is to provide the best senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer, which includes loving and compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia diseases.  We take a holistic approach to memory care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website to learn more about what a specialized care plan can do for your loved one.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/anxiety-agitation

Looking for Assisted Living for Your Parent in the Reno Area?

If your parent lives alone and you are worried that they need more personal daily care than you can provide, it may be time to look into other options.  One of those is assisted living, which focuses on providing residents the daily care they need to help them retain their independence.       

Especially now, you want to judiciously make the best, safest choice for your mom or dad.  To help you do so, experts offer a few suggestions of things to think about before you begin your search (obviously you want to respect mom or dad’s preferences and wishes).  They recommend that while you take into account your parent’s immediate needs, you also give some thought to their future needs.  So find out if the home you are thinking about will be somewhere they can "age in place” and/or if there are limitations in terms of how much care the community provides.  

Your questions should include the level of care services they are licensed for as well as their limitations.  For instance, at MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks our licensing provides us with a range of available care services that makes it possible for us to extend the stay of residents even as health conditions change. 

Unless a resident requires round-the-clock nursing (including the management of acute pain), MorningStar is honored, with the partnership of a hospice agency, to care for a resident through end-of-life.  In addition, as a licensed “Directed Level of Care” community, we care for residents within a secure environment (memory care) who, due to compromised cognitive ability, cannot recognize danger and, therefore, cannot respond appropriately and/or cannot express their needs.  

If you are considering assisted living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our exceptional community.    We are a true home where the residents are heroes who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect; and MorningStar families know they can trust their loved ones to us.

While we know there are a lot of worrisome stories in the news about COVID-19 among senior living communities, MorningStar of Sparks wants potential families to understand that the care of those beneath our roof is our utmost priority.  To that end we are following protocols - in some cases exceeding them - set forth by the CDC and other organizations in our fight against the virus; and are confident in our ability to safely accept new residents.   

MorningStar of Sparks proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers.

Comfortable Independent Living at MorningStar of Sparks

Isn’t it about time you got a break from the never-ending chores and headaches of home ownership?  If you are like most homeowners, just about when you think you have fixed or replaced anything that can go wrong, something else breaks.  Also wouldn’t it be nice to no longer have to worry about lawn care, snow shoveling and raking all those leaves?  MorningStar of Sparks offers a break from all of that with carefree independent living in a quiet neighborhood that is convenient to shopping and other services.

For luxury senior living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks is sure to please.  Our independent living community is designed for seniors who seek a lifestyle free of the responsibility of private home ownership, but without the need of any care services. We offer seniors a beautiful community where they can enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, security and wellness in their retirement years. 

As an independent living resident, you will enjoy predictable budgeting as all utilities including cable TV are in your monthly fee as well as three delicious daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef.  Also, we take care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping, which allows our residents plenty of time to pursue their interests.  For your safety, suites have full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  In addition, as a resident of the community you have access to all onsite amenities including a bistro, fitness room, and chapel/theater. 

Along with independent living, MorningStar of Sparks also offers assisted living and memory care; and we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our community, our philosophy and our commitment to serving others.  As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, our mission statement includes honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well. 

We also want you to know that during the coronavirus pandemic, MorningStar of Sparks’ highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are still accepting new residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Too Much TV Watching is Not Healthy for Seniors

While it may feel relaxing to sit and watch TV right before bed, several studies have shown that watching too much TV before sleep can interfere with a good night’s sleep.  Instead of winding us down like we think it is doing, it turns out too much TV ends up stimulating brain activity and firing up the brain causing a restless, interrupted night’s sleep.  Moreover a restless night can result in getting less than the prescribed 7 or 8 hours recommended by doctors and leave us in a sleep deficit, which is especially bad for seniors.  

Researchers have discovered other problems with older adults watching too much TV.  According to the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, developed by the National Cancer Institute, it found a correlation between seniors who watched 5 or more hours of TV a day and a loss of mobility.   The study was comprised of 340,000 men and 226,000 women between the ages of 50 and 71 from six states and two US metropolitan areas.  “After performing a multivariable logistic regression analysis and adjusting for factors known to increase the risk of mobility disability, the researchers found that ‘greater TV time was significantly related to increased disability within all levels of physical activity’.”   Another negative linked to watching 3.5 hours or more of TV each day was a decrease in verbal memory.

Both of these problems could be due to a number of reasons including the fact that if someone is watching that much TV every day they are not doing other healthier activities.  Researchers explain the TV in itself may not be that bad but the sedentary nature of TV watching and the fact that the person is not doing other things like playing board games; reading, socializing with friends, or engaging in a hobby may be just as problematic.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Reno. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319170

Be More Effective Communicating with a Loved One with Dementia

If you have a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, you probably have felt at times like you were not getting through to them.  While communicating with someone suffering from Alzheimer’s is not always easy, we have a few tips to help make it more effective.  

Colleen Kavanaugh, a Certified Dementia Practitioner & Certified Dementia Communications Specialist, offers “a few tricks to have up your sleeve” that may help lessen irritation and calm and soothe more quickly.  For instance, if you want to get the person dressed, Kavanaugh suggests you take a few moments to connect with the person.  Get down to eye level so they can look directly into your face, speak slowly and ask a simple question such as “how is your day?”  Once you have their attention, let them know the tasks at hand.

Another thing to remember is to keep your instructions simple.  Ask if they would like to do a particular task such as brushing their hair; and then put the brush in their hand and using your hand, guide the first couple of brush strokes.  Do the same thing with brushing their teeth, etc.  Make sure to talk soothingly and let them know how well they are doing.     

Strategies to try to calm the person when they are frustrated or angry include also getting down to their level, taking their hand and calmly letting them know you are there to help.  Give them time to respond but if they are unable to express themselves and you cannot determine what they need, slowly distract.  Show them pictures of family members or talk about things you are going to do together.  Above all avoid criticizing or arguing.   

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we offer unsurpassed senior living in Phoenix with 80 beautiful, well-designed assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, we have 30 secure memory care suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, which are staffed by a team of dementia care specialists who truly understand the disease.  Please visit our website to read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into our loving community.    

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Source: seniorlink.com/blog/communicating-with-dementia

You're Never Too Old for Sun Protection

If you are an older adult, you may feel like you are past the point of worrying about a few new wrinkles and think you no longer need to protect your skin with sunscreen.  The medical profession wants you to know that nothing could be further from the truth as seniors are actually more sensitive to sunlight and of getting sunburnt in a shorter period of time than when they were younger.  This is due to a couple of reasons including as we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses its protective fat, and medications commonly taken by seniors including antibiotics, NSAIDs, oral diabetes drugs, and diuretics may increase photosensitivity.  

Doctors recommend that seniors avoid exposure to the sun during peak times (from 10 am to 4 pm) and to remember that the sun’s UV rays are still potent even on cloudy days.   Also be sure to wear sunscreen choosing a cream or lotion that is broad spectrum (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) of SPF 30 every day.  If you plan to be at the beach or to play golf, wear SPF of 50 or higher.  Be sure to reapply every 1½ to two hours.

You also need to wear a hat and protective clothing.  The brim of your hat should be at least 3” and cover your neck and ears, and long-sleeved shirts and long pants or long skirts that are loose and light-weight.  Don’t forget to wear good sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of the sun’s rays.  Finally, remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.     

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, we provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 80 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations, including studio and one and two-bedroom floor plans, to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   We provide another 30 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19).

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

Do You Want to Improve Your Health?

No matter what our age, there are some relatively easy things we can all do to improve our health.   One of those suggestions is to develop the habit of eating more slowly.  While it sounds like a simple thing, it actually offers a couple of health benefits.  It gives our brain the chance to signal we are full, which can help prevent overeating as well as gives us additional time to think about what we are eating and maybe make better choices.  

Another easy change is to get in the habit of eating fresh fruit rather than drinking fruit juice as even 100% pure juice loses some of its nutrients once it is processed.  Eating fresh fruits are low in fat, sodium and calories and are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and folic acid.  Also, fresh fruit fills you up more than juice.  Some other recommendations include adding dark leafy greens to your diet and cutting back on sugar.  

Also, experts advise watching the fat in your diet.  Avoid trans fats that have been related to heart disease but remember some fats found in foods such as whole eggs, fish, avocados, nuts and dairy are part of a balanced diet.  Doctors additionally say an alcoholic drink (one at most for women and two at most for men) a day may provide benefits for your heart.  

Other ideas for improving health include reducing our level of stress.  Experts say that regardless of what seems to trigger stress; not dealing with it can lead to a variety of serious health conditions including ulcers, heart disease and high blood pressure.   Exercising is not only an excellent way to reduce stress but is good for our bodies, and no matter how old we are, we need to keep moving.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living community, we provide healthy, nutritional meals as well as care services and amenities to ensure carefree retirement years.  Please see our website for more information.  While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

Tips to Help an Elderly Parent Organize Their Medications

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking one or more prescription medications on a daily basis.  In fact the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.”  Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interaction, an area of special concern for the elderly.  

Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year after visits to the emergency room because of adverse, or harmful, drug events.  Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “is it taken with food,” and the adverse side effects.  

Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them.  Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs.  The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous taken together.  Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork.   

Now store the medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense to your parent’s needs.  If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system.  However if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored. 

At the MorningStar of Sparks senior living community, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern.  This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents have their medications when they need them, and as we even order meds, there is no danger of them running out.  We are currently accepting new residents and offer independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to contact us for more information about exceptional independent and assisted living in Reno.

If You're 100 Years Old, You've Seen Many Changes

Many of us are lucky to have family or friends that are well into their 90s or even a 100 + years old.   They are not alone as in 2014, the CDC reported there were 72,197 Americans aged 100 or older. Also, according to 2017 projections from the Social Security Administration, it reads, “For those who are 65 today, a man has a 3% chance of living to 100, a woman a 5.9% chance, and at least one member of a couple an 8.7%.”   

When we take the time to think about the many changes that has occurred over the last hundred years, it is incredible to think we know someone who has lived through much of it.  During the 1920s, most Americans lived in rural settings or in small towns, and all members of the families worked in one form or another including children who had routine duties around the farm or in the house.  Imagine the Ford Model T, which was considered to be the first affordable car that our grandparents may have rode in as children and the cars they drive today.  In addition, they were old enough to be captivated by the first transatlantic airplane flight made by Charles Lindbergh in 1927.  

Our parents or grandparents have lived through world wars and world depressions, saw airline travel become an everyday convenience and men land on the moon.  They saw the start of the computer age and witnessed the impact of the worldwide web.  Together these are some of the reasons why MorningStar at Arcadia believes seniors are heroes—men and women who have exacted out of life all its triumphs and trials.   Moreover, it is why we believe if anyone deserves honor and respect, it is our seniors. 

If you are looking for outstanding senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia encourages you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about our assisted living and memory care community.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Learn More About MorningStar at Arcadia

MorningStar at Arcadia is a beautiful senior community that offers assisted living as well as memory care.  Our outstanding team is experienced in serving seniors and understands what it needed to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  

In fact, all facets of our community were designed from the ground up to compassionately and professionally serve our residents and we start with 24/7 care managers and access to licensed nurses and certified medication care managers/QMAPs.  MorningStar’s care managers help our assisted living residents retain their independence by providing help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including dressing, grooming, bathing, toileting and eating as well as other medical assistance.  These dedicated individuals were hired for their big hearts and a desire to serve seniors.

MorningStar’s medication care managers/QMAPs also play an important role based on statistics from a National Institute of Health study.  It reports that 40% of seniors aged 65 and older take five or more prescription medications, and 90% take at least one prescription. In addition, it found that 55% of those seniors are improperly taking their medications.  Our certified med managers oversee both the ordering and dispensing of medications to our residents.  

For residents’ safety, our entire community is handicap accessible with wide doorways, spacious common areas and hallways, and each suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms.  In addition, all 80 of our bright assisted living suites have a 24-hour Emergency Call System.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to caring for those with memory impairment and is designed to encourage our tender residents to easily and safely explore their spacious surroundings.  

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents and team members. We are still accepting new residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.  Please see our website for more information about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus (COVID-19) response.

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

Telehealth Doctor Visits

Lots of changes are going on regarding the way we are leading our day-to-day lives including visits to our healthcare providers.  Chances are good that if you have a scheduled visit to your physician, you may be told that it will be a virtual telehealth visit as many physicians have substantially cut back on in-person office visits.  

While the concept may seem new, you may be surprised to learn that the Lancet medical journal first discussed the possibility of using the telephone as a way to lessen unnecessary office or home visits in 1879, three years after Alexander Graham invented the telephone.   Now with the outbreak of COVID-19 and telehealth visits quickly gaining popularity, experts offer some guidance on what to expect and tips to make sure you are prepared for your “visit.”  

First, in order to participate in a telemedicine appointment, you need at a minimum a telephone line.  Ideally, high-speed internet and video access through a smartphone, tablet or computer that allows you to connect visually.  Also your provider needs to tell you what app to download before your visit.  

Moreover, just like a regular in-office visit, doctors recommend making a list of topics you wish to go over with your healthcare provider.  Dr. Gary LeRoy, an associate professor of family medicine at Wright State University and president of the American Academy of Family Physicians, advises patients to ask themselves, “‘why do you need to be seen today; and what's the biggest priority?”  He suggests keeping a symptom diary of when the problem first developed and what seems to aggravate or alleviate the symptoms, etc.   Also make your call in a quiet place where you will not be interrupted, and have on hand any devices you use including thermometer, blood pressure cuff, glucometer, etc.  

If you need a mammogram, colonoscopy, or other procedures that require in-person care, experts recommend postponing them until we are in a better place in terms of the current health crisis.  However, they stress that emergencies are still emergencies including “sudden chest pains, weakness in one side of the face or body, or a sudden thunder-clap headache. These are all red-alert symptoms that could signal a heart attack or stroke,” and require immediate medical attention.  

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/conditions/articles/a-beginners-guide-to-a-virtual-doctors-visit

Staying Abreast of Developing Changes in Our Approach to COVID-19

Right from the start of the coronavirus outbreak, MorningStar Senior Living sprang into unprecedented action to protect all those who reside beneath our roofs.  To ensure we reacted quickly to any and all early warning signs, we relied on the guidance of the CDC, the American Housing Association, and the Federal government over the last three months and have stayed tuned to changing information and recommendations.  Our strong line of defense was built on evolving evidence-based research and proportional to the threat.  

Now as the nation is slowly coming out of quarantine and states and communities are opening back up, MorningStar of Sparks is judiciously following our state’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing.  We are sending out information to our residents and family members, and ask that you direct any questions specifically regarding the Sparks community to our Executive Director, Amanda Jenkins.  

Also we would be remiss if we did not take the time to thank all of our residents and their families for their overwhelming love and support during this time.  In addition we want to express gratitude to our dedicated team members who have helped us every step of the way to get through this crisis with grace and courage.  In other words, it was a team effort!   

Please visit MorningStar of Sparks to learn more about beautiful, vibrant senior living in Reno. We offer 128 bright suites for independent living and another 80 for assisted living. Our Reflections’ wing has 32 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We are accepting new residents and are confident in our protocols for keeping our MorningStar family safe, and look forward to hearing from you.      

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Contact us for more regarding unsurpassed independent and assisted living in Reno. 

Positive Affirmations Can Help You Change the Way You Think!

An affirmation is a statement repeated and believed, which can shape our thoughts and feelings.  When we focus on positive affirmations, we can re-program negative thought patterns and change the way we think and feel about things. Positive affirmations help us concentrate on our goals, rid ourselves of negative beliefs, and find solutions we didn’t even know existed.   

Getting into the habit of turning the negative into a positive is especially helpful for seniors including developing a positive attitude toward the aging process.  In fact the Yale School of Public Health conducted a study led by Becca Levy, a professor of public health and psychology, which found a positive outlook on aging, can add 7.5 years to someone’s life.  The study also suggests a positive attitude toward growing older can reduce the risk of one of the most established genetic risk factors of dementia, the ε4 variant of the APOE gene.   

So how do we change to glass half-full thinking?  Experts say it starts with little things.  Rather than berating yourself for forgetting where you left the keys, and worrying you getting old and forgetful, remind yourself you were busy putting groceries away and not paying attention to where you set the keys.  

Other positive ways to grow old is to remain confident in your abilities to try new things.  Make a point to broaden your horizons and remind yourself retirement is your time to try the things you have always wanted to do but didn’t have time.  Tell yourself you are strong and capable, and ready and able for new adventures.  Don’t define yourself by boundaries, and remember pain is not a part of old age but rather your body telling you something is wrong and you need to see a doctor.  Remind yourself you still have a lot to contribute and that you deserve to be treated with respect. 

MorningStar of Sparks represents the best senior living Reno offers.  Our community has 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 for assisted living.  We also provide 32 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases.  Currently we are accepting new residents and invite you to visit our website for contact information.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living and assisted living in Reno.

Senior Living Designed to Help You Be Your Best!

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our first priority is to provide residents a true home where they can lead a comfortable, carefree lifestyle.  In addition to a whole host of resort-style amenities, tasty meals, gorgeous surroundings, and compassionate care services, residents enjoy the many benefits that come from our signature wellness program, WellStar. 

As part of our Mission statement includes valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals, we consider it our calling to give seniors purpose in their lives and to provide an atmosphere that allows them to live life to the fullest.  Thus each day our Life Enrichment team presents fun, entertaining, and interesting ways for our community to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory. 

Our meaningful activities encourage residents to continue learning and contributing with a wealth of programs that enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage social connections.  We tap into a wide range of interests, hobbies, and talents, and if our programs do not address a resident’s special interest, we encourage he or her to start a club.  

Visit our website’s home page and scroll to the bottom for pictures of residents enjoying themselves like the one from our enthusiastic Movin’ and Groovin’ exercise class.  Activities also include things like live music concerts as well as fun arts and crafts classes. If are a trivia buff, we have game nights; if you love classic movies, you will surely enjoy our movie nights along with all of the other interesting activities that constantly go on at MorningStar of Santa Fe.   

In fact our whole community is designed for your enjoyment from a cozy kiva fireplace in our beautiful courtyard, an artfully-designed dining room with open kitchen, sunroom and a living room complete with a cozy fireplace. Other onsite amenities include a 24-hour bistro with full bar, a workshop and art studio, spa and massage therapy room, fitness center, salon, and a theatre/chapel.  And if you wondered, MorningStar of Santa Fe is pet friendly. 

The MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community offers assisted living and memory care in a true home setting.  We feel privileged to serve seniors and our care is delivered with warmth, sincerity and depth.  Please visit our website to set up a tour of our loving community.    

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for more information about compassionate senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Expert Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of Colds and the Flu

With lots of stories about viruses in the news every day, it is probably a good time to review some basics from experts about how to prevent spreading a cold or the flu.  To start with it is important to know how long someone is contagious.   

In the case of the common cold, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention explains that different viral strains cause the symptoms of a cold, such as rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, and coronaviruses.  Since each of these viruses evolves and adapt to their environment, it explains why we do not have a cure for the common cold. Experts also say that a cold typically lasts for about 10 days and that we are probably contagious for that amount of time.  

Depending on the person, influenza typically last for up to 10 days.  Doctors explain a person is contagious one day before they start having symptoms and up to seven more days.  The flu affects people of all ages but some groups more severely than other such as the elderly, young children and people with compromised immune systems.

Both the common cold and the flu are highly contagious and it requires all of us to be vigilant in not passing them along to others.  There are several good habits we need to adopt, especially in cold and flu season, and they start with washing our hands frequently (alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective), to avoid touching our mouth, nose and eyes, and to avoid contact with people who are sick.  Moreover if you get sick, stay home.  

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we help our residents and employees to all get a flu shot each year.  We also ask that if a staff member is sick, they stay home, and discourage families from visiting residents if they are sick or feel like they may be coming down with something.  MorningStar takes our responsibility to keep our residents as healthy as possible with tasty, nutrient-rich meals, wellness programs and a whole range of care services and onsite amenities.    

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us for more information regarding unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

To Achieve the Best Health, Seniors Need a Nutrient-Rich Diet

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult.  This is why the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is important, and even today, many seniors have an “inadequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, folic acid, calcium, and niacin.”   

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier.  They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road. Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy. It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados. 

Along with all of the other amenities and care services we provide, the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients.  We get much of our produce from home-grown or local high-quality producers.  

Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch, and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions.  We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage.  MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.  

If you are looking into senior living in the Santa Fe area, and in particular assisted living, we invite you to set up a tour, and while you are here, plan to share lunch with us to experience for yourself our culinary treats.  Please visit our website’s community page or give us a call for pricing and availability or to set up your tour.   

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about unparalleled senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

As We Age, a Good Medical Team is More Important than Ever!

If you have reached your 60s, or for some of us, even our 50s, you need to a have great team of doctors on your side.  This should include physicians with experience that has focused on health conditions common to seniors, and who are attuned to the multitude of changes that aging has on our bodies, our minds, and our lifestyle.  

You also want health care providers who actually listen to you and then talk to you.  Dr. Michael Wasserman, a geriatrician and board member of the American Geriatrics Society's Health in Aging Foundation, stresses that good listening ability is the first personality trait to look for in your doctor.   

If you are shopping for a new physician due to a move or other circumstances, ask friends and neighbors for a reference.  Once you call, find out if they are accepting new patients, and if not, how long is the waitlist. In addition before you make your first appointment, ask if they accept your insurance including your various Medicare plans, and if medical help is available when the office is closed.   

Dr. Wasserman also cautions that a conservative approach to treating aging patients may be the best one. He explains, "You need clinicians who show a lot of caution before putting an older person on a medication, before sending him off to a specialist, before doing tests and before putting him into the hospital.”

At MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we understand that the best care comes from the heart.  Our loving home promotes a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community and offers an array of comprehensive care services.  These include transportation to doctor appointments, routine care planning reviews, scheduled health & wellness evaluations and physician visits.  Please visit our website to learn more about pricing and availability, and while you are there, set up a tour to experience firsthand the finest senior living in Santa Fe.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for more information on compassionate senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Are Caregiving Duties Leaving You Feeling Overwhelmed?

If you have become responsible for more and more of the caregiving duties for an elderly parent or another loved one, it may be time to consider a change.  Today’s senior living options include assisted living that provides daily help with personal care, and actually helps residents regain their sense of independence.  Also once your loved one is getting the proper care they need, it allows you to get back to just enjoying the time you spend together. Moreover senior living communities like MorningStar of Santa Fe provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  

Our first priority is to ensure your loved one gets the care they need.  This starts with a thorough evaluation of their medical and personal history, follow by a care plan approved by you and your parent.  MorningStar’s services also help out our families by providing transportation to doctor appointments as well as offer scheduled physician visits, choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry care.  Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participant in a range of activities and wellness programs. While this is not a substitute for the time your loved one spends with family, you may find your parent is not always available to take your call as they are busy having fun with other residents and staff.  

Our services also include providing housekeeping to help ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we see to it your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need.  Moreover meals are served restaurant-style in our charming dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.  We also offer assistance with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications. We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Please visit our website for more information regarding the area’s finest senior living in Santa Fe.  Our community offers 56 bright suites for assisted living and 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our team looks forward to hearing from you.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living Santa Fe style with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a ‘true home” for residents. To get a look at the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM, please set up a tour.

The Transition to Assisted Living

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we recognize for many seniors change can be both difficult and challenging. While moving to an assisted living community may be the best decision for the person and their family, this doesn’t mean there won’t be a transition period. 

Many seniors mistakenly think touring assisted living communities, deciding on one, figuring out budget considerations, and perhaps selling the family home is the most difficult part of moving to community living. However, experts report it can typically take anywhere between 30 to 90 days before a senior feels comfortable in their new assisted living home, but there are few things that can be done to help the process go more smoothly. 

To start with it is important to make sure your loved one’s new home is filled with familiar and beloved objects such as personal photos, books, and knick-knacks. As the new resident, you should try to keep a positive attitude toward the move and be a good sport about joining community activities and socializing with others. After all, making new friends can make all the difference in the world. Furthermore, remember the staff is there to help and will be more than glad to answer all of your questions.

As a family member, be open to listening to your loved one’s fears and concerns. While you will want to visit, be sure not to be “too supportive” as the senior needs to find their own way in their new home. Experts say it is also important to not waste time feeling guilty about moving your loved one into assisted living. Remember it is a safe place for them to find comfort, wellness and community. Please visit MorningStar at Arcadia’s website to learn more about the area’s finest assisted living and memory care. 

Our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers residents an exceptional assisted living home.