The Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet for Seniors in Assisted Living

The Mediterranean diet is argued to be the healthiest diet in the world. With its long-trusted benefits, this diet can be beneficial for seniors in assisted living who require a little extra health attention. The variety within the Mediterranean diet keeps seniors satisfied and interested, meaning they will have more energy to explore all that their senior living community has to offer. 

Keep reading to explore the benefits of the Mediterranean diet for seniors in assisted living. 

Heart Health

The Mediterranean diet is full of healthy fat and protein from fish, chicken, and legumes. These foods offer great heart health benefits, especially to seniors. Fish, like salmon and mackerel, contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 Fatty Acids offer numerous heart-protective benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering blood pressure, and reducing artery inflammation. 

You can find executive chefs at MorningStar Senior Living. These chefs are dedicated to producing the healthiest options senior living in Nevada has to offer. For seniors in assisted living, monitoring heart health, on top of others, is extremely important. 

Weight Management

Whole foods make up the Mediterranean diet. This means people eating this lifestyle diet consume little to no processed foods or fast food. It can be complicated for seniors who need assisted living care and who live alone to eat a whole-food diet. They may forget about buying groceries, feel discouraged in cooking their own meals, and may heavily rely on take-out and fast food. This may lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Finding an assisted living community that prioritizes seniors’ health and wellness by implementing diets and lifestyle changes to help seniors live healthier lives. 

Find Award Winning Assisted Living Near You

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Overcome the Guilt of Moving Your Parent to Assisted Living

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need. 

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living community is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they need to move to a place where they will receive the proper care. 

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long-run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.  

For outstanding assisted living in Albuquerque, NM, we encourage families to consider MorningStar.  We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers stylish suites in a range of floor plans to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information about luxury senior living at MorningStar of Albuquerque.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

Belly Fat – Why You Should Try and Get Rid of It & How to Do It

Experts caution belly fat, a visceral fat that surrounds the organs, raises the risk for several common diseases. These include type 2 diabetes, breast and colon cancer, heart attacks and heart disease as well as high cholesterol and liver disease. The journal, Circulation, explains even if your BMI is within normal range, the risks associated with heart attacks and excessive levels of belly fat are higher than normal. The Mayo Clinic defines an unhealthy level of abdominal fat in women to be a waist circumference of 35 inches or higher. For men, it is 40 inches or more.      

While it can be hard to lose belly fat, research suggests a multi-faceted approach including a healthy diet and consistent exercise; along with several other lifestyle changes should help make a difference. Your diet should include lean protein from foods like beans, salmon, chicken and turkey, Greek yogurt and nuts. While carbs are always blamed for weight gain, experts explained it has more to do with the type of carbs you consume. Slowly digested, high-fiber carbs can help improve blood sugar management and lower your body’s insulin resistance. Avocado, beans, lentils, oatmeal, quinoa and chickpeas are all good sources. 

Exercises should include some cardio as well as resistance training like Pilates, lifting or resistance bands. Core strengthening exercises like the plank or ab crunches are also helpful. Other lifestyle changes include managing stress and getting enough sleep each night and avoiding alcohol. If you have insurance, check to see if you are eligible for a dietitian’s services. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning new exercises or making changes to your diet. 

MorningStar at Arcadia offers a beautiful residential setting to safely and comfortably age in place. Our assisted living provides the level of support seniors need to maintain their independence and live life to the fullest. For families struggling with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of memory loss, MorningStar provides individualized, specialized care to celebrate and elevate life.  We invite you to set up a tour to experience firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care Phoenix families can trust. 

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/best-ways-to-get-rid-of-belly-fat

Make Your Visit to a Loved One in Assisted Living More Meaningful

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living community by letting them know they are very special to us.  To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit.  

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit.  Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game.  You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or start a new one.  If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together.  If they enjoy listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together.  If they like sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help get them ready to mail.   If they get pleasure from being pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.  
 
If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink.  Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home.   However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big.  Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community.  Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.   
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At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Albuquerque, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents, but we know they always look forward to seeing their family.  Our community has beautiful and inviting common areas to enjoy with visiting family and friends.  For assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

The Gift Giving Season is Almost Here

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas will all be here before we know it, which brings up the dilemma of what to get an elderly loved one. While they may not need much, it is still nice to remember them with a special gift to show our love. 

Giving them something that puts a smile on their face makes the effort of searching for a great gift worthwhile. However remember if mom or dad is in assisted living or another community where space is at a premium, buying them a big item is typically not a good idea unless they want something like a new chair and will get rid of the old one.  

For the best ideas, it makes sense to turn to people who help care for those in senior living communities as they see firsthand what gifts are most appreciated. Generally they say well-received gifts are items that are consumed, used up or visually enjoyed like an easy-to-care for plant or fresh flowers. Ideas include putting together a gift box with things like a new throw blanket or bathrobe, non-skid slippers or socks, fancy soaps, lip balms and body lotions. If they love a certain brand of chocolates, put together a goody basket of chocolates, cookies, and tea or a single-cup coffee maker. Another thoughtful gift is preparing a home-cooked meal and delivering it to their home. 

Personalized gifts are meaningful but if you are using a company to produce a personalized item, remember it usually takes time. Gifting a puzzle of a picture of the family or a beloved home and organizing a puzzle night would be a fun way to spend quality time together. Also you could give them a gift card good for a monthly brunch or lunch to their favorite restaurant with you.   

MorningStar at Arcadia offers spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans to ensure residents get just what they need. Luxury amenities, wellness programs, planned events and an opportunity for new friendships help keep residents as busy as they like. Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s finest assisted living and memory care Phoenix seniors can rely on.

Eat Less, Live Longer

Studies have shown lifestyle choices such as following a healthy diet, getting enough exercise and sleep, not smoking and consuming less alcohol can lead to a better quality of life. Now a recent study funded by the National Institute on Aging reports restricting the amount of calories consumed each day may also help you live longer. Researchers found reducing our calorie intake can improve muscle health as well as stimulate biological pathways, both important for healthy aging. 

In the Comprehensive Assessment of Long-Term Effects of Reducing Intake of Energy (CALERIE) study, the NIA’s focus examined how calorie restrictions improved muscle health and conserved muscle function. The corresponding author on the study, Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, scientific director of the National Institute on Aging, said, “Previous studies have found that while people on calorie restriction were losing muscle mass, they did not lose muscle strength, which suggests that something occurred in the muscle that improves their performance, [and] we wanted to know what.”

Over a period of two years, participants were asked to reduce their daily calories. The highest reduction achieved by the group was 12 percent. In order to examine how calorie restrictions affect human genes, researchers studied biopsies from particpants’ thigh muscles. Their findings showed consuming fewer calories “upregulated the genes associated with energy generation and metabolism, and downregulated inflammatory genes, resulting in less inflammation.”

Dr. David Cutler, a physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA said, a good way to start reducing calories is by limiting processed meats as well as red meat in general. He added our carbohydrates should come from foods less sweet and less processed. 

Experts caution that eating less should not interfere with the amount of vitamins and minerals our bodies need each day; and before you begin a calorie restrictive diet, talk to your healthcare provider. The average amount of daily calories an adult requires is between 1,300 to 3,000 calories a day depending on gender, height, age and activity level. 

For the most sought-after senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia offers 78 assisted living suites in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 30 suites devoted to the specialized needs of residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease and  other types of dementia. Visit our website to schedule a tour or give us a call to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care Phoenix offers.

Everyday Home Exercises for Seniors in Assisted Living

Your body will go through many changes as you age, but getting older does not have to mean getting weaker. Having a good workout routine can help you keep your muscles strong, improve your balance, and even support heart health. Here are just a few of the everyday exercises that you can perform in assisted living.

Walking

When it comes to exercising, simple is often the answer. Walking is one of the best activities seniors can do. Seniors in assisted living in Phoenix can take a leisurely stroll around the premises or even walk back and forth around the common areas. 

Walking is an ideal form of exercise because it can maintain cardiovascular health, improve muscle strength, and lower cholesterol levels — all at the same time.

Sit-To-Stand Movements

A common source of difficulty for seniors is the positional change from sitting to standing. Going from a seated to an upright position can cause instability, loss of balance, or even vertigo. To strengthen the muscles and adjust the body to this transition, you can practice sit-to-stand movements. 

Sit-to-stand exercises are as easy as they sound. You begin in a seated position and then slowly stand up straight. Repeat ten to twelve times, if possible. If you have dizziness, this exercise can be performed next to a wall for added stability.

Standing on One Leg

Another beneficial exercise for seniors in assisted living is standing on one leg. Many seniors struggle with their balance and staying stable when upright. 

You can address this and improve balance by standing on one leg for about ten seconds at a time. It may be difficult at first, so you can start with three to five seconds until you get stronger. Repeat for the opposite leg.

If you have severe balance issues or vertigo, it helps to do this next to a wall or counter. You can also ask someone to help by holding your arm or hand as you stand on one leg.

Light Lifting

As you age, there is a natural weakening of the muscles. This can make it difficult to lift even the lightest items, making seniors more vulnerable to injuries, strains, or even broken bones. 

In order to stay as strong as possible, older adults can practice light lifting. Using weights of five to ten pounds, you can perform slow bicep curls or other arm workouts. You should avoid lifting weights above your head in case they are dropped. 

Getting Exercise at Assisted Living

Staying active and getting exercise is vital for adults of any age to stay strong and healthy. From standing on one leg to simply walking the grounds, there are plenty of opportunities for easy, daily exercise in assisted living.

4 Practical Steps to Help Aging Parents Overcome Their Fear of Change

It is not uncommon for older adults to experience fear of change surrounding assisted living, aging, and other uncharted territories. This fear can cause excessive tension and distress that impacts their physical and emotional well-being. Read on to learn four practical tips to help your parents get past these fears.

1. Take the Time to Listen to Their Worries

When a person is struggling with dread, anxiety, or stress, they want someone to empathize with them. While you may not understand or agree with how they feel, it will mean the world to them if you accept and recognize the emotions they are going through.

2. Provide All of the Information You Can

When making a major life change, people are afraid because they do not know what to expect. If your parents are grappling with anxiety and panic over a life transition, one of the best steps you can take is to equip them with plenty of information. 

Give them as many details as possible so that they have an idea of what to expect. 

3. Communicate With Them Openly

To help your loved ones conquer fears, you must establish a safe space for open communication and unrestricted dialogue. 

Your parents should be able to come to you with their worries without fear of judgment or ridicule, regardless of what those concerns might be. But you don’t have to have these conversations alone. You can also create a support network of additional family members or friends that your parents can turn to as they process the idea of moving to assisted living in Phoenix. Having the right people involved in the conversation can make all the difference and help put your parents at ease.

4. Set Up Visits at Assisted Living Facilities

Often, the best way to overcome a fear is by facing it. This does not mean you should put your parents into a situation that frightens them or causes grief. Instead, you can ease them into confronting their fears in small ways. 

For example, some seniors avoid senior living because they worry they will lose their independence. 

You can even bring your parents to an in-person tour of assisted living to put their mind at ease.

Transitioning Into Assisted Living

It’s common for people to experience some apprehension when it comes to a major life change. Differences in routine, living situation, or location can all be intimidating for aging adults. Provide plenty of information, address their concerns, and set up tours of any potential assisted living facilities. Taking these steps can help reduce the fear of change for your aging parents.

How To Create a Relaxing and Comfortable Home in Assisted Living

If you or a loved one is moving to assisted living, you may be wondering how the new senior living community could ever feel like home. While this new experience may feel overwhelming, moving to the best-assisted living community near you is sure to be full of the best amenities, living arrangements, and eatery options. With a little help, your new space is sure to feel like home in no time. 

At MorningStar Assisted Living in Sparks, NV, seniors find the best senior living community with built-in companionship, luxury-style amenities, and budget-friendly living arrangements. Keep reading to find out how to create a relaxing and comfortable home in assisted living. 

Aligning Values

When looking for a senior living community near you, find one that aligns with your values and personality. Exploring a community with like-minded people and empathetic caregivers is sure to make you feel comfortable and at home in no time. Finding a senior living community that aligns with your values means making friends will come easier. 

Remove Clutter

The hardest part about moving for some can be decluttering. If you are moving from your home into assisted living, the challenge of downsizing a whole home into a one-bedroom apartment can feel daunting. With the help of family, friends, or even professionals, they can help you decide what objects in your home are necessary to keep during your transition to senior living.

Decorate

Decorate your space with memories and keepsakes. Many assisted living communities, like MorningStar Senior Living, encourage residents to bring their furniture and decorations into their suites. Choosing to decorate your new space similarly to your previous home may help seniors feel more comfortable and safe. 

Find Luxury Style Assisted Living Near You

MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us today to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Independence and Assistance: How Assisted Living Strikes the Right Balance

We can’t blame seniors for wanting independence and autonomy. Seniors want to have active lives, be social, and rely on others as little as possible. For seniors in need of assisted living care, we know that some level of assistance is necessary for them to be happy and healthy. How can you find the right balance of independence and assistance when looking for senior living near you? 

For seniors who are used to living alone, it may be difficult to persuade them into assisted living care. This is why you must seek the right assisted living community that strikes the right balance of independence and assistance. 

A Social Senior Living Community

Seniors benefit from an active social life. In retirement, it becomes increasingly difficult for seniors to socialize if they live alone. Decreased mobility, lack of transportation, health concerns, and distance are all valid reasons why a senior may struggle to see their friends, family, or participate in outside activities in their neighborhood. Your loved one will benefit by finding an active senior living community near you. Seniors love participating in group activities and events and the walkable, easy-to-access amenities in senior living communities make seniors feel connected to the people around them. 

Explore Your Hobbies in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities allow seniors to re-explore their hobbies and passions while receiving proper care and attention. Like independent senior living communities, assisted living residents are allowed to explore their community, socialize, and nurture their passions. Assisted living hosts an array of art, music, and cooking classes for seniors to develop their skills or begin a new journey. With the help of 24/7 care providers, seniors in assisted living still live a full, and active life while maintaining independence and curiosity. 

Find Luxury Style Assisted Living Near You

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Parker “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. 

Are You or a Loved One Considering a Move to Assisted Living?

For anyone considering a move to assisted living, choosing the right community is a big decision as getting it wrong may mean another move within a couple of months. To help, senior living experts say the first thing to do is to think about the level of care you or a loved one needs to improve quality of life. 

After you have a pretty good idea of what your needs are, now factor in things like location and affordability. If mom or dad needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) focus only on senior communities offering assisted living. If you want the home to be a convenient drive for easy visiting, concentrate on those communities. If mom or dad no longer drives, look for a community offering transportation for doctor appointments or errands; or if they plan to bring a car, does it offer parking? Does the home offer 24/7 care, medication management and access to licensed nurses?

Obviously, affordability is an important consideration, but senior living advocates warn don’t be initially shocked at the price. Rather think about all of the living costs such as property taxes, maintenance, utility bills and meals included in the home’s monthly fees. For a better understanding of mom or dad’s assets, it may be worth your while to consult an elder law attorney. They can explore various options such as eligibility for Veterans’ benefits, what your parent’s long-term care insurance may cover, and the advantages of leveraging real estate assets and life insurance, tax benefits and more.   

Other things to consider include the physical characteristics of the assisted living community. Does it offer a floor plan that works for you? Do you want amenities such as a fitness center, hair salon, outdoor patio, restaurant-style dining, theater, Wi-Fi, etc.? 

For trusted assisted living, Albuquerque, NM area seniors are encouraged to learn more MorningStar. MorningStar of Albuquerque’s assisted living lets seniors comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, resort-style amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, we offer specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Visit our website today to inquire about pricing and availability.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Helpful Privacy Tips for Seniors in Assisted Living

Are you moving to assisted living? No matter where you are, it’s important to protect your privacy. Seniors are at higher risk for breaches in privacy, including sensitive health data. Follow these tips to help protect your private information in assisted living.

Understand Your Rights

You might know about patient privacy in a healthcare context. However, privacy rights extend into assisted living and other senior communities as well. Each resident has the right to dignity and privacy, both of which are essential for a high quality of life. 

Staff and Confidential Information

Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of privacy in assisted living. This means that staff members should never share your information with anyone else. The only exception to this is if you’ve approved a loved one to gain access to your information. 

Access to Your Records and Documents

Along with confidentiality, you should have access to any of your records or health plans upon request. Assisted living communities are required to keep records accessible to residents. You deserve to know what’s involved in your care. 

Learn About Privacy Differences: Assisted Living vs. Independent Senior Living

Some senior living communities are designed to help residents with activities of daily living. This means you may not get the same privacy as a resident in an independent living community. However, staff members should still follow confidentiality rules.

Assisted living communities might monitor residents for safety and health reasons. There may be cameras in common areas and locks on doors. This is for your protection, not to infringe on your privacy. 

Other than monitoring you for safety and security, assisted living communities should not invade your privacy. You should still be allowed to have private visits with loved ones and plenty of alone time when you want it. 

In independent senior living, residents naturally have a higher degree of privacy. You can expect your personal activities and residence to be completely private. This means no one else should have access to these pieces of information and places without your permission. 

Know That You Can Maintain Personal Autonomy

You have the right to personal autonomy, regardless of age or medical status. This means you should have a say in all of your care decisions. Know that you have the right to refuse any activity or amenity at any time, and staff members should back you up on this. 

Autonomy is the most important part of your privacy as an assisted living resident. Ensure your loved ones are familiar with staff members so that you have extra support on the outside. 

Every Assisted Living Resident Has the Right to Privacy

Privacy and dignity are your rights as a resident in assisted living in Phoenix. Know the laws in your state and practice speaking up for yourself. You don’t have to give up your privacy to enjoy the benefits of assisted living.

6 Relaxing Hobbies for Adults in Assisted Living

Do you have a parent or another loved one who resides in assisted living? Assisted living communities are designed to keep residents happy, healthy, and safe, and engaging in enjoyable hobbies can play a key role in supporting that experience.

Here are six relaxing hobbies for residents of memory care in Phoenix.

1. Perfecting Art Skills

One great way to relax while in assisted living is with arts and crafts. Painting landscapes, drawing portraits, and sculpting pottery are all relaxing activities that allow people of any age to express their creativity and individuality. Another plus is that arts can be practiced alone or with friends!

2. Working Through a Reading List

Many people love getting lost in written adventures, including seniors in assisted living. Residents can immerse themselves in exciting stories by working their way through a reading list. This can be done at a relaxed pace, allowing them to read through a single novel for weeks or months.

3. Becoming a Film Critic

For seniors who love cinema, acting as an amateur film critic can be an activity that is both fun and relaxing at the same time. Having a weekly movie night and then critiquing the film with their peers will also support recall and critical thinking skills.

4. Compiling Memories in a Scrapbook

What better way to relax than taking a trip down memory lane? Seniors who have a large collection of family photos may enjoy scrapbooking while in assisted living. They can even make themed books that detail various chapters of their lives and histories.

5. Writing Letters to Pen Pals

The older adult who loves sharing their life and keeping in touch with friends will find that writing letters can be very relaxing. They can even make new friends by joining a pen pal program that sets them up with a new person to communicate back and forth with. 

6. Practicing Meditation

Few activities are more relaxing than practicing the art of meditation. Meditation teaches you to focus on your breathing and clear your mind of negative, stressful thoughts. For seniors in assisted living, meditation can be the perfect way to start each morning and feel calm and relaxed for the remainder of the day.

Memory Care in Phoenix Can Still Be Relaxing

Assisted living homes are safe environments that can facilitate healthy, happy aging. From arts and crafts to daily meditation, there are many ways for seniors to relax while in assisted living. 

If you have a loved one who is a resident for memory care in Phoenix, suggest some of these activities to help them make their time more relaxing and enriching.

Is Your Aging Parent Not Doing Well Living on Their Own?

If you noticed a change in mom or dad or another loved one during a recent visit from out of town, you are not alone. Experts say when families spend time together after a prolonged separation many adult children realize their parents are not doing as well as they thought they were living on their own.   
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Some of the most obvious signs a parent is having problems caring for him or herself is an unintended loss of weight, change in grooming habits or signs of a fall. The ADLs or Activities of Daily Living are used by experts to evaluate the needs of a person and include personal care such as bathing, dressing and toileting as well as transferring (ability to get in and out of bed or chair), continence and eating. 

Other important signs a person is no longer doing well on their own and could benefit from some sort of assistance are based on what experts call the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These include things like paying bills, taking care of their home, preparing and cooking meals, being able to get out of the home, and socializing. 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque we offer assisted living and memory care. Our assisted living is designed to provide the services residents need to maintain their independence with 24/7 care managers, medication management, access to licensed nurses and more. Moreover, all residents are treated to a delicious, healthy restaurant-style dining service, wellness programs and activities, and sponsored community outings and events. 

Our beautiful home has assisted living suites in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom.  In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) or trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  For trusted senior living in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Gifts for Mom or Dad in an Assisted Living Community

It can be difficult to find the right gift for a parent living in an assisted living community.  We recognize that they have had a lifetime of gifts, and as they are no longer running their own household, they not only do not need as much but have a limited amount of space.  

One suggestion is to give them a blanket or throw as seniors often suffer from the cold.  However, if you want to personalize your gift, there are several companies that will create a cozy throw using one of your family photos.  A talking photo album also lets you create memories through family pictures and when it has recorded voices of the grandkids, it is really special. 

Another idea is to give them a lap desk that allows them to easily read a book or to write a letter from the comfort of their chair.  You could add a couple of adult coloring books illustrated with things they enjoy or places they have been along with some colored pencils and markers to complete your gift.  

A personalized gift basket can be filled with all kinds of things such as their favorite soaps, lotions and perfumes or colognes.  You can also fill a basket with special treats including chocolates, cookies and a small plug-in teapot and tea bags, or do one up with slippers, grippy socks, and a couple of pairs of fashionable compression socks. 

Furthermore, tablets and iPads make good gifts as their touch-screen technology and large print options make them easy for seniors to use.  If your parents are not tech savvy, set up the tablet before you give it to them with their email address, facebook page and other personal items.  It may be fun to pre-load a few games that you think they would enjoy and add some photos of the family.  Add to the gift the offer to be their “tech support” if they have any problems.  

MorningStar is proud to offer exceptional senior living in Albuquerque, NM with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our community offers 48 private assisted living suites and 21 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Contact us for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque and to set up a tour.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Medication Safety Tips

It may surprise you to know that according to the Department of Health and Human Services, each year fifty-five percent of seniors are non-compliant with prescription drug orders and do not take medication as prescribed by their doctors. It is a serious problem as approximately 200,000 older adults are hospitalized annually due to adverse drug reactions. 

Medical professionals say there are steps seniors and those who care for an elderly loved one can do to help lessen the problem. To start with, take medications as prescribed including the correct dosage and time, with or without food, and never crush a pill into a powder. Especially if you see multiple doctors, be sure to always bring a list and dosage of all medications you are taking including non-prescription and herbal supplements. 

Experts say using the same pharmacy can help reduce drug interactions, and to be sure to read the warnings regarding adverse reactions. Periodically review your prescriptions with your doctors to make sure you are taking the right dosage and still need the medications. To see if any meds you take have a warning for usage in the elderly, check the American Geriatric Society’s Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults. It is also recommended you properly dispose of older medications and drugs you no longer take.  

If you are on medications to treat diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to continue to test your glucose level and BP numbers. Other drugs may be prescribed with the understanding you will have your blood tested periodically and it is important to follow through as too high or too low of a dosage can cause problems.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a 55+ community on the popular northeast side of town between Paseo del Norte and Palomas Ave. NE. We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a responsive, loving staff.  Care services include medication management by certified Med Care Managers. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about Morningstar’s memory care and 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.

Source: seniorsafetyreviews.com/13-medication-safety-tips/

Is Mom or Dad Doing Well Living Alone?

Over the summer many adult children spend more time visiting with their parents in person rather than on the phone or over a video call. It is also the time when many families discover mom or dad living on their own isn’t working, and they are not actually doing as well as everyone thought. 

Experts say there are some signs to look for when visiting an elderly parent to determine if they need more help in their day-to-day life. One cause for concern can be if they have had an unintended change in their weight. Experts say weight loss is a common sign of a senior not doing well on their own. The same goes if they appear to have had a change in their balance and mobility such as difficulty getting up from a chair or walking up or down stairs, which could result in a higher risk of a fall. 

Another component of an older person’s wellbeing includes their emotional state. Do they have opportunities to get out and about and socialize or are they spending a lot of time alone and showing signs of forgetfulness or confusion? Is your formerly neat as a pin mother now living in a home that looks neglected and untidy or is she herself looking ungroomed?

Senior living specialists explain an elderly person’s physical and mental state can decline quickly and often catch families by surprise. If you find yourself in such a situation, it may be time to have a conversation with your parent regarding in-home help or a move to an assisted living community. Homes such as MorningStar of Albuquerque offer area seniors a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities that help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life.  

We consider serving seniors to be our calling and gladly help guide families throughout the move-in process and transition to community living. Please visit our website for more information about luxury assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Trusted Assisted Living Care for Seniors in Reno

Moving to a new senior living community can be overwhelming for seniors. Especially if they are in need of assisted living care. If your parent or loved one is used to receiving senior care within their home, adjusting to a new assisted living community near you may be an adjustment. But when you are being welcomed by an active community of seniors in quality care, the worry starts to lessen.

At MorningStar, you will quickly adjust to our welcoming environment with trusted care providers and team members. The staff members at MorningStar ensure secure Assisted Living that families can rely on. MorningStar’s staff members and care providers are trained to provide specialized care to residents with even the most complex medical needs. Find out why MorningStar has the most trusted assisted living care for seniors in Reno. 

At MorningStar, our assisted living community incorporates personalized care plans for senior care. This means that each resident receives care that is tailored to their unique needs, preferences, and abilities. You can find Assisted Living support at various levels at MorningStar.

Around-the-clock Care Managers are on-site and at the ready to ensure the comfort and safety of our residents. The care plans are developed in collaboration with residents, their families, and their healthcare providers to ensure that they receive the care they need to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Find assisted living near you that has a team of trained and experienced staff members who are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional care to residents. At MorningStar, our personalized care staff are knowledgeable about the best practices in holistic senior care and are committed to providing high-quality care to each resident.

MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

Find Trusted Assisted Living Near You

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

How to Emotionally Support Your Senior When He’s Feeling Down

If you care for a senior loved one, you spend a considerable amount of time trying to meet the physical issues that often arise as we grow older. You implement steps to mitigate pain, ensure consuming food and beverages that deliver sufficient vitamins and minerals, and drive to different healthcare providers to address a wide variety of physical ailments. Although taking care of your senior loved one’s physical health is important, you should devote as much time and money to considering the emotional toll aging takes.

We fulfill emotional needs at every stage of our lives. As we grow older, our emotional needs change and the strategies used to meet those needs change as well. The key is to know how to support your senior loved one emotionally. You also should be able to identify the emotional needs of your senior loved one. A few of the most common emotional needs that senior loved ones need to meet include social interactions, developing meaningful relationships, and understanding what it takes to find a sense of belonging.

At our senior living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, our caregivers recommend four ways to support your senior when he’s feeling down.

Listen

When your senior loved one discusses feeling down, your role is to listen and understand what is said. You should not follow up with an immediate response, but instead, you listen to let your senior loved one know that what she said carries enough significance to warrant a little time of contemplation. When your senior loved one knows you have listened, you should be able to develop a stronger connection that provides emotional support.

Respect

Unless your senior loved one needs memory care in Phoenix, he is capable of expressing ideas that advocate a point of view. The last thing your senior loved one wants is to be treated like a child, which unfortunately, far too many family members do when they interact with an older adult. Your senior loved one wants to be in control of her life, which means you need to respect what he wants to do in terms of choosing an assisted living lifestyle.

Make Safety and Security a Priority

Safety and security represent two of the most important emotional needs for a senior. If your loved one does not feel safe and secure, she might not be able to generate the energy to have other emotional needs met. One of the most common reasons why seniors want to live in a facility with other seniors concerns the issues of safety and security. MorningStar at Arcadia installs safety and security measures such as advanced security systems and emergency call buttons to give residents peace of mind.

Participate in Activities

Assisted living facilities offer a wide variety of activities to keep residents engaged, as well as foster social interactions. The activities planned at our memory care community in Phoenix are not just for residents. To support your senior loved one emotionally, stop by our facility to join your senior loved one in an activity or two. We offer regularly scheduled activities such as yoga and tai chi, as well as special events like bus tours that take residents to area cultural and historical landmarks.

Professional caregivers represent the front line of defense to prevent the development of emotional issues such as fear and anxiety. Loved ones are the second line of defense, which means you should focus on ways to help your senior loved one feel valued, understood, and appreciated. At our assisted living community in Phoenix, AZ, we follow the mission of “to honor, to value, to invest” in our seniors. Learn more by contacting a resident care representative at MorningStar at Arcadia.

5 Important Supplements for Seniors

As we grow older, it is important to get the minimum daily requirement of vitamins and minerals in our bodies. From the quick rejuvenation of cells to enhancing the circulation of blood, vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in determining our health status. However, older adults tend to miss out on the daily minimum requirements for mineral and vitamin intake. They do not eat the right foods, which means seniors typically require the addition of supplements in their diets to bolster strength and fend off the development of debilitating diseases such as osteoarthritis.

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 75 percent of adults at least 60 years old take at least one daily vitamin and/or mineral supplement. Adding vitamin supplements to your senior loved one’s diet might be the most effective way to prevent the development of diseases, while at the same time improving cognitive skills. At our senior living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, our team of nutritionists customizes diets for residents that often include taking at least one vitamin supplement.

Let’s look at five important supplements for seniors at our assisted living and memory care facility in Phoenix.

Calcium

As the most abundant mineral in the body, calcium is critical to help maintain healthy bones and teeth. Older adults are especially at risk for suffering the loss of bone and tooth density. Without enough calcium, seniors become much more vulnerable to sustaining bone fractures that take a longer than average amount of time to heal. You can find ample calcium in foods such as fish, milk, and dark-green, leafy vegetables. However, adding a calcium supplement to a senior’s diet ensures the proper amount of calcium intake.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D, which is found in fish and fortified milk products, is an integral vitamin for seniors to have in their bodies. During spring and summer, just a daily 10-minute exposure to the sun can generate enough vitamin D. This vitamin is important for seniors to prevent the development of osteoarthritis and other types of bone diseases. Supplementing food sources like fatty fish with a daily pill can generate enough vitamin D for older adults.

Vitamin B12

The bones are not the only part of the body that benefits from the ingestion of vitamin supplements. Older adults also need to maintain the health of nerves and blood cells, which is the primary reason for taking a vitamin B12 supplement. As we enter our golden years, natural sources such as eggs, fish, and poultry of vitamin B become more difficult to absorb.

Vitamin B9

Also referred to as folate or folic acid, vitamin B9 can prevent or slow down memory loss in adults at least 60 years old. Vitamin B9 also plays an important healthcare role by converting carbohydrates into energy. Seniors who do not consume enough fruits like oranges and vegetables such as spinach are candidates for ingesting a vitamin B9 supplement.

Vitamin B6

Our bodies require vitamin B6 to form red blood cells, as well as maintain healthy connections between the brain and nerve cells. Far too many seniors do not get enough B6, which can mean the development of memory loss. Ingesting a vitamin B6 supplement can complement natural food sources such as potatoes and citrus fruits.

The team of nutritionists at MorningStar at Arcadia carefully plans meals for our residents to ensure they receive the right amount of vitamins and minerals. At our memory care facility in Phoenix, AZ,  vitamin and mineral supplements also play an important role in helping residents maintain strong mental and physical health.  Learn more about the five important supplements for seniors by scheduling a tour of our assisted living community.