Senior Hydration: The Overlooked Winter Necessity

Hydration is crucial for overall health, yet it often becomes an overlooked aspect during the winter months, especially among the elderly. For those in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and memory care Phoenix, staying adequately hydrated is vital, even when it’s not hot outside. Here’s why hydration is so important for seniors during winter and how to ensure proper fluid intake.

1. Understanding the Importance of Hydration in Winter

The dry winter air, both indoors and outdoors, can lead to increased body fluid loss in seniors. In facilities like memory care Phoenix and assisted living Phoenix, where indoor heating is used extensively, the air can become particularly dry, exacerbating the risk of dehydration.

2. Recognizing Dehydration Symptoms

Seniors, including those in senior living Phoenix and retirement communities Phoenix, may not always recognize the signs of dehydration, which can include fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and dry mouth. It’s important for both seniors and caregivers to be aware of these symptoms, especially since the sensation of thirst diminishes with age.

3. Easy Ways to Increase Fluid Intake

Incorporating fluids into the daily routine is key. This could involve drinking water, herbal teas, and other hydrating beverages. Seniors in senior apartments Phoenix and retirement communities Phoenix can also increase their fluid intake through moisture-rich foods like soups, broths, fruits, and vegetables.

4. Monitoring Fluid Intake

Keeping track of how much fluid is consumed each day is important. Residents in assisted living Phoenix and memory care Phoenix can benefit from scheduled drinking times or the use of marked water bottles to ensure they’re drinking enough throughout the day.

5. The Role of Caregivers and Staff

In senior living Phoenix and similar settings, caregivers and staff play a crucial role in ensuring that residents stay well-hydrated. They can encourage regular fluid intake, offer beverages throughout the day, and watch for signs of dehydration.

6. Avoiding Diuretics

It’s important for seniors, particularly those in senior apartments Phoenix and memory care Phoenix, to moderate the consumption of diuretics like caffeine and alcohol, which can increase fluid loss.

7. Consult Healthcare Providers

Seniors, especially those with existing health conditions or those living in assisted living Phoenix, should consult healthcare providers for personalized advice on hydration, considering any medical conditions that may affect their fluid needs.

Staying Hydrated in Winter

For seniors in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and memory care Phoenix, maintaining hydration during winter is essential for health and well-being. By recognizing the importance of hydration, understanding the signs of dehydration, and adopting practical steps to ensure adequate fluid intake, seniors can effectively manage their hydration needs during the colder months. Remember, staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer, and it plays a key role in maintaining good health and preventing complications in seniors. By prioritizing hydration, seniors in all living situations, from memory care Phoenix to senior apartments Phoenix, can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable winter season.

Living with Glaucoma: Lifestyle Adjustments for Seniors

Glaucoma is a common eye condition among seniors that can lead to vision loss if not managed properly. For those living in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and receiving memory care Phoenix, adapting their lifestyle is crucial in managing this condition. Here are key adjustments that can help seniors live better with glaucoma.

1. Regular Eye Exams and Medication Management

The cornerstone of living with glaucoma is regular eye exams. Seniors in senior living Phoenix and assisted living Phoenix should ensure they adhere to their eye examination schedule. Additionally, consistent use of prescribed eye drops and medications is vital in controlling intraocular pressure, a key factor in glaucoma management.

2. Adjusting the Home Environment

Visual impairment from glaucoma necessitates certain adjustments in living spaces. This is particularly important in retirement communities Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix, where ensuring good lighting and reducing trip hazards can significantly help. Labeling and organizing everyday items can also aid those with vision limitations.

3. Staying Physically Active

Physical exercise can help reduce eye pressure, which is beneficial for glaucoma patients. Seniors, including those in memory care Phoenix, should engage in regular, moderate physical activity like walking, stretching, or yoga, tailored to their abilities and health conditions.

4. Healthy Eating Habits

A nutritious diet supports overall health and can be beneficial for those with glaucoma. Seniors in assisted living Phoenix and senior living Phoenix should incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for eye health.

5. Stress Management Techniques

Stress can adversely affect glaucoma. Practicing stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies can be particularly beneficial for residents in retirement communities Phoenix and senior apartments Phoenix.

6. Social Support and Education

Understanding glaucoma and having a support system is crucial. Seniors in memory care Phoenix and other senior communities should seek educational resources about glaucoma and engage with support groups or counseling services if available.

7. Safe Transportation Options

As glaucoma progresses, it may impact driving abilities. Seniors living in senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, and senior apartments Phoenix should explore safe transportation options for appointments and errands to maintain independence while ensuring safety.

Adapting to Life with Glaucoma

Adapting to life with glaucoma involves a multifaceted approach, focusing on health management, environmental adjustments, and emotional support. For those in assisted living Phoenix, senior living Phoenix, retirement communities Phoenix, senior apartments Phoenix, and memory care Phoenix, these lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. It’s about creating a safe, supportive, and health-conscious environment that caters to the unique needs of seniors with glaucoma. By embracing these changes, seniors can continue to lead fulfilling lives while effectively managing the challenges of glaucoma. Remember, with the right care and adjustments, living with glaucoma can still mean a life of quality and comfort.

How to Support Seniors Dealing With Loss Around the Holidays

The holidays are often a festive and joyous time of year, but for seniors who have just suffered a loss, they can be anything but. The season is often full of reminders of the past that bring out nostalgic emotions, which themselves can trigger strong feelings of grief. 

In retirement communities in Phoenix, seniors who are dealing with loss generally need extra support and care around the holidays, so it’s important to understand how grief and the aftermath of a loss work to better support your older loved ones. 

With that said, here are some of the best ways to care for a senior who has recently lost someone they love:

Give Them a Safe Space to Talk About the Person They Lost

Where people prefer not to talk about the loved ones they’ve lost, others do, and if that is the case, it’s crucial that you provide a safe and open space for them to talk about the person they love. Discussing the loss can help ease some of the feelings of depression and help seniors move through the more complex stages of grief. 

Whether you visit them at one of the retirement communities in Phoenix or invite them to your house, make sure you offer a listening ear. Sometimes, just knowing someone else is there to hear what they have to say can be a great remedy for those going through complex grief. 

Encourage a Sense of Community

Seniors who have recently lost someone they loved need to be able to fall back on their friends or others who can lift their spirits, and thankfully, in retirement communities in Phoenix, there are plenty of other residents who can help offer support. A strong sense of community can act as a buffer against some of the negative effects of loss, like depression and hopelessness. Encourage the person suffering to reach out whenever they need support and participate in community activities when they feel ready to do so. 

Support Their Nutrition and Physical Health

Seniors going through grief and depression may need help prioritizing their physical needs, including sleep, regular meals, and hydration. Make these activities as easy and convenient as possible for them so they can protect their physical and mental health during this challenging time. 

While eating a healthy diet won’t cure someone’s grief, it can help with the smaller side effects, such as a loss of appetite and unhealthy weight loss. As their support person, you can encourage them to eat nutritious meals and move their body as they see fit. 

Gift Them Photos and Keepsakes of Their Lost Loved One

Keep the memory of a grieving senior’s lost loved one alive by gifting photographs and other keepsakes. Since the holidays often involve lots of gifts, it’s best to stay sentimental with yours this year. Doing so will help them carry the person they lost in their heart, no matter what time of year it is.

Navigating the Complex Process of Senior Grief 

Grieving isn’t easy at any age, but it can be especially tough for a senior after retirement, so offer your support in ways that are sympathetic and authentic. Remind them that you’re always there to listen and care for them when they need it.

4 Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors Living in Retirement Communities

Everyone knows how important it is to follow a healthy diet. But what many people forget is that it’s even more important for seniors to eat healthily, especially in retirement communities. So where do you start? How do you make the most of what your program has to offer? 

Thankfully, many retirement communities in Phoenix have premium nutrition services and healthy dining options. Use this as a guide to learn the best tips for healthy eating after retirement.

1. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables contain anti-inflammatory antioxidants that help combat tissue damage. This is key when it comes to aging gracefully and maintaining good brain health. 

So load your plate with colorful fruits and veggies every time you eat to make the most of your meals. While indulging in treats is okay occasionally, you should strongly focus on getting your fruits and vegetables each day. 

2. Make Healthy Eating Fun and Enjoyable

While they may have a reputation for being particularly healthy choices, you don’t have to force down Brussels sprouts or spinach if you don’t like them. Healthy eating can still be enjoyable and tasty. For example, if you find out which whole grains, vegetables, and fruits you like the best, you can add them to your meals each day. 

Learn which ingredients make you feel the most satisfied while still delighting your taste buds. Opt for dishes with flavors and textures that bring you happiness instead of making you feel restricted. This way, you’re more likely to stick to a healthy diet.

3. Watch Out for Hidden Sugar 

Some foods and drinks contain a surprising amount of hidden sugars that are damaging to your mental and physical health. So always ask for a menu that includes ingredients if you have diabetes or are sensitive to blood sugar spikes. 

Some foods and drinks that contain more sugar than you’d think include:

• Juice

• Coffee creamer

• Granola bars

• Breakfast cereals

• Packaged fruits

• Salad dressings

• Sweet and savory sauces

If you know what to look out for, you can avoid consuming too much sugar and protect your long-term health. 

4. Research the Community’s Dining Options

Retirement communities in Phoenix offer a wide range of dining options, from cafeteria-style meals to independent restaurants onsite. You may already have settled into a routine in your community, but you may not be aware of all the available options that can help you maintain good health. 

You might even have access to extra services like nutrition counseling. If so, find out how to sign up and get expert meal guidance.

Eating Healthy for Seniors Made Easy

Keep these tips in mind, and you can do a better job of eating right and aging gracefully while living in one of the retirement communities in Phoenix. Finally, as you navigate your new post-retirement eating habits, remember that most things can be enjoyed in moderation.

The Importance of Socialization for Older Adults

There is an epidemic of loneliness among many Americans, particularly older adults. Seniors may find themselves feeling isolated and cut off from the world, spending most of their time on their own. This makes socialization a crucial element of aging well and feeling like the best version of oneself. 

The following factors emphasize the importance of socialization for older adults:

Supports Emotional Well-Being

Perhaps the biggest benefit of socialization is that it supports emotional well-being. Too many seniors struggle with feelings of isolation because of a lack of social interaction. 

Older adults who spend more time with their peers, family members, and neighbors may lead happier lives and experience less stress, depression, or anxiety. Having frequent and meaningful socialization can combat these feelings and promote more positive emotions. 

Maintains Mental Acuity

A profound concern among older adults is cognitive decline and memory loss. While this is largely unpreventable for most people, there are ways to slow the progression and maintain some level of mental acuity. 

One of these ways is ongoing socialization. Daily interaction with other people can help seniors retain a stronger memory and enhance mental clarity when compared to those who spend most of their time alone. 

Provides a Sense of Purpose

Some seniors struggle with a lack of purpose, especially after retirement. Without having a job or daily tasks to attend to, they may feel like there is nothing for them to do each day. 

Spending time with friends or family members can provide many older adults with the sense of purpose they long for. Having scheduled social endeavors or regular outings gives seniors something to look forward to each week.

Improves Physical Health

Serious health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain are all prevalent among aging adults. While a healthy diet and regular exercise are vital for preventing or reducing the symptoms of these conditions, another effective tool for improving physical health can be socialization.

Going out with friends and family can help otherwise sedentary seniors lead a more active lifestyle. It can also promote positive, uplifting feelings that help them maintain their overall health and well-being.

Socialization in Senior Living in Phoenix

Chatting with a friend or having dinner with family are things that can benefit all of us, but they are particularly beneficial to older adults. Since seniors often struggle with loneliness or isolation, it is important to prioritize peer relationships and connections between family members. 

Maintaining a social lifestyle has a number of advantages for seniors in senior living in Phoenix, including improved health and better emotional wellness. If you have a loved one in a retirement community, make sure to remain present in their life and encourage interactions with others.

Find a Continuous Care Retirement Community Near You

As the golden years approach, many seniors seek a community that provides comprehensive care and a vibrant lifestyle supporting their evolving needs with age. MorningStar Sparks, located in the beautiful city of Reno, Nevada, offers individuals and continuous care for seniors looking for senior living or assisted living in Nevada. Being a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), MorningStar Sparks presents many advantages for seniors, such as promoting an enriching and fulfilling retirement experience through many options, independence, and socialization.

A CCRC, or a Continuing Care Retirement Community, is a residential community that provides a continuum of care services for seniors as they age and their healthcare needs change. This means that senior living communities, like MorningStar in Sparks, Nevada, offer seniors different options in their care regime and the ability to change that regimen later on down the line, without having to move to a completely new facility for assisted living or memory care. This model allows residents to age in place and receive the appropriate level of care within the same community, ensuring continuity and convenience, while maintaining comfort and friendships.

MorningStar is a Continuous Care Community in Nevada that offers peace of mind to seniors and their families. Seniors that move into a MorningStar senior living community with the appropriate level of care they need to remain healthy and happy. In our traditional senior living arrangements, retirement years are just made simpler by our community handling chores, having executive chefs for meal cooking, and offering amenities and social activities daily. As residents age, their need levels may change. By providing care for changing needs, MorningStar provides a sense of security and eliminates uncertainties associated with aging and potential future healthcare needs.

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. 
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To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Reno, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Nevada. We encourage you to see the most exceptional and dependable senior living Sparks, Nevada offers.

How to Have Successful Aging

American society is greatly concerned with aging. While some fads are simply aesthetic and vapid, other concerns are valid. In terms of senior health, assisted living facilities should see wellness as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life during their stay in a senior living community. MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks defines wellness as a comprehensive, holistic strength. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment. Find out how senior living at MorningStar in Greater Reno has optimized assisted living with creative solutions that benefit the health and longevity of seniors.

To strengthen the independence of residents, MorningStar senior living of Sparks partners with ONR or, Orthopedic and Neurological Rehabilitation, to provide expanded services in integrated wellness. Every community team has a full-time Director of Rehab who oversees ONR Touch, a concierge-style program offering education; fitness, and wellness classes; rehabilitation services inclusive of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech/language therapy; and other therapeutic solutions to help heal arthritic pain, or issues surrounding cardiac/respiratory health concerns, or osteoporosis.

Care levels is a special process for assisted living residents at MorningStar senior living that determines the amount of individualized care a resident requires through a simple point system that considers the cost and time of providing each service such as grooming, bathing, ambulation, and medical assistance. The cumulative score determines the level of care, resulting in an individualized assisted living service plan within your senior living facility that offers the right amount of help to keep you comfortable and safe.

MorningStar of Sparks in Greater Reno is dedicated to creating a true home for its residents and helping both them and their families adjust to their new lifestyles. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living options in Sparks, Nevada. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Nevada.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other retirement 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 see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Sparks, Nevada.

A True Home at MorningStar of Albuquerque

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Albuquerque is committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our residents.  Once you learn more about our community, we are sure you will agree that MorningStar of Albuquerque is senior living at its best.  In fact, the MorningStar Senior Living Company was founded by Ken Jaeger as the fulfillment of his dream to create senior housing defined by the human touch and a sense of family.  We believe our community has achieved that dream and is a true home for our remarkable residents.  

To ensure we meet our residents’ needs, we are deliberate about the individuals we hire to become part of our distinguished team.  Every new employee is carefully vetted and chosen for virtues such as kindness, selflessness, and character.  We look for people who are committed to perfecting the art of anticipating needs and willingly go the extra mile to serve.  

Once team members are hired, they are trained in “Radiance,” which is much more than just a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart.  With a tagline of “Service Becomes Us,” it is used to guide the way we deliver service – with sincerity and depth of purpose.  Also, its precepts enhance the loving atmosphere of our home.

We encourage you to visit our website and view our virtual tour that shows off our beautiful spaces as well as background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living.  Throughout our retirement communities, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day.    Looking at the images, can you imagine yourself sitting in our attractive full-service dining room eating delicious meals created by our Executive Chef or watching a favorite film in our comfortable theater? 

MorningStar of Albuquerque offers 48 stylish, private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans to meet our residents’ preferences and needs.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we provide another 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  For trusted memory care or assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

How to Help Slow Down the Signs of Aging

While aging may be a sign of all the wisdom we have gained from past experiences, most of us would not mind slowing down some of the most obvious signs of our advancing years. Doctors say the aging process affects every part of our bodies including perhaps most noticeable our faces.

If you are someone in your upper years, you may have noticed these common signs of aging in your own face: an expanded forehead due to a retreated hairline, longer ears due to a growth in cartilage, or a nose that is drooping due to a weakening of connective tissue supporting the nasal cartilage. When we are young, the fat in our face is evenly distributed to plump it out. As we grow older, the volume of fat in our face clumps up and shifts downward, resulting in the skin looking loose and saggy. The jowl sags and skin loosens around the neck.  

There are several ways we can try to improve the signs of aging in our faces. Medical experts say one of the most important ways to slow down the process is to protect our skin from the damaging rays of the sun. Wearing a SPF of 30 or above every day can help prevent fine wrinkles as well as more serious problems such as skin cancer.  

Other remedies to help delay the signs of aging include cosmetic creams and serums or prescription creams such as Avita, Avage, Renova, Retin-A, which help reduce wrinkles and so-called liver spots caused by sun exposure. Laser treatments can also help get rid of brown spots caused by sun exposure and freckles as well as red marks from broken capillaries.

Botulinum toxin injections are used to smooth out the skin by partially immobilizing the muscles that form our expression lines. Dermal fillers treat the lines caused by lost collagen and fat; and hyaluronic acid, a complex sugar found naturally in many tissues, is one of the most popular fillers. Depending on the filler used botulinum toxin injections and dermal fillers last anywhere from a couple of months up to six month.    

MorningStar of Sparks senior living community offers the area the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care with a wide array of senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and wellness programs and activities. Our retirement communities was awarded the Service Excellence Award, based on praises received by families and eldercare experts in online reviews. Visit our website to learn about availability, pricing and to set up a tour. While you are there, ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Does a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Need More Care?

A Place for Mom’s website offers some advice to families regarding the need for memory care for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. They explain early-on in the disease, many individuals are capable of living independently with family members overseeing some of their care. However, they also warn symptoms can vary from day to day and it can be difficult to know exactly when a person requires more supervision for their safety and wellbeing. 

Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says when speaking to families, he centers the conversation regarding additional care for their loved one on the “ability to perform activities of daily living and safety.” ADLs include things like dressing, bathing, eating and toileting. 

Other questions doctors may ask to evaluate a person’s ability to live on their own include: is he or she having trouble finding their way back home from familiar neighborhood routes? Are they forgetting to eat or drink and take medications? Is the person’s safety at risk? Have they left the stove on, have unexplained bruises, or had several falls recently?

Medical experts say it is important to let the person’s healthcare providers know as soon as you suspect a problem. They can do tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing the confusion or memory loss; and take a look at the person’s medications to see if they are the problem. Also, if a diagnosis is made early-on, the person has the chance to weigh-in regarding care options down the road. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque has 21 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Each day is filled with activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents.  For trusted memory care or assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar retirement communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Albuquerque has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

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

Studies Show Assisted Living Helps Seniors Avoid Common Problems

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many elderly adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life. 

A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our Executive Chef specializes in preparing tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents.  

Another problem many elderly adults have is managing medications properly. In fact, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people aged 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However, experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.”  For this reason, MorningStar offers medication management to our residents.   

Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their retirement years and live as comfortably and as safely as possible. For more information on trusted assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on; please contact us or see our website.

MorningStar Retirement communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

Source:  aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/

It May be Time to Consider Assisted Living for Mom or Dad

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that assisted living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers. 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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides outstanding senior living. 

Another Important Vaccine for Older Adults

Currently Shingrix is the only vaccine approved for adults 50 years and older to protect against shingles. This vaccine is important as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly one in three people in the U.S. develop shingles at some point, and every year an estimated 1 million people are diagnosed with the disease.  

Symptoms of shingles include pain, rash, itching, and at first fluid-filled, then eventually crusting blisters. People can additionally suffer from a hypersensitivity to touch or light as well as headaches and fevers. The disease can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months and pain is generally most intense in the first few weeks. Some individuals may require pain medication to sleep or get comfort.   

When Shingrix first came on the market in 2017 so many people wanted it there weren’t enough dosages to meet demand. Now manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline reports there is plenty of supply available for anyone who wishes to get the shot. For many people who put off medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic, now may be the time to protect yourself against shingles.

The vaccine requires two doses given any time between two to six months; and studies show it to be highly effective against the shingles in both older healthy adults and frailer ones. “In a large multicenter study of approximately 27,000 people vaccinated with Shingrix or a placebo, effectiveness ranged from about 90% in frail participants to nearly 96% in non-frail participants.” 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our mission is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  Located on the popular northeast side of town, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants as well as other services.  Our community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites and 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. To experience our community up close, contact us to schedule a visit.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our principles are based on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/shingrix-shingles-vaccine

Hearing Loss is Very Common in Seniors

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our goal is to be the best senior living Phoenix offers, and we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our beautiful home has 80 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 30 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar at Arcadia’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer.

Finding a Community for a Loved One with Dementia

Searching for memory care for a loved one that suits the person’s needs as well as the family’s is challenging at best. Knowing the person is dependent on getting the level of care they need for both their wellbeing and safety makes choosing the right home essential. Experts say start by taking your time to think about your loved one’s needs including daily personal care required such as dressing, toileting, bathing, etc. as well as any on-going medical needs. 

Additionally, do they have mobility issues and use a wheelchair or a walker; or do they need assistance eating? If the person is known to wander, you will want a secure home to keep him or her safe including alarms on the doors. Another thing experts say is to let the community know if the person is prone to angry outbursts or other aggressive behaviors. 

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s needs, now consider if the homes you are looking at are equipped to handle those needs. Ask about living arrangements, dining service, and the level of daily help the person will receive. Moreover, does the community offer exercise programs and other meaningful activities? 

Now inquire about the homes’ experience with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, and the training the staff has in dementia care. What is the home’s philosophy of care and how do they approach difficult situations such as aggressive behaviors? Most of all does the staff seem caring and do residents appear to be content and well-looked after? 

At MorningStar, our mission is to provide the best senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Santa Fe. 

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Assisted Living Gives Families Peace of Mind

Are you worried about your elderly parents getting the care they need at home? Assisted living communities are one way to make sure they get the care they need, while giving family members the peace of mind they need. 

To help ensure the community you choose is a good, all-around fit, experts say the trick is to find one based on your parents’ needs, their lifestyle and budget. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, says the key to a successful move for mom or dad is to have a frank and open conversation with the family to make sure everyone is on the same page. Be sure your parents have the chance to give their opinion. 

When you begin the actual search, remember assisted living is not a nursing home or memory care. To determine the best community for them, start by addressing their ADLs’ (activities of daily living) needs. Keep in mind the amount of help they need right now and how much help they will most likely need over the next couple of years. After all, you do not want to go through the process of moving them into a community to have to move them out in a few years once their needs cannot be met. 

Determine your parents’ budget, and if you need help in that area, seek advice from an elder care financial service or attorney. At the MorningStar of Albuquerque assisted living and memory care community, we have partnered with Elderlife Financial Services to present different financial resources commonly used to pay for senior living. 

Another important step is to virtually (or personally) visit the community and to get to know the staff. Narrowing down your choices includes considering things such as how convenient will it be for the family to visit and is it located close to a pharmacy, medical facilities and shopping.  Furthermore, find out if the community is accepting new residents, and if not, you may want to go on their waiting list.    

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  In addition to assisted living and memory care, we offer respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) that are ideal to see if we are a good fit. For exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque, NM seniors are encouraged to contact us to learn more.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers. 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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides outstanding senior living.

Learn More About MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Phoenix

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar at Arcadia we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that senior living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Phoenix has to offer. 

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

Common Food Group Found in Cultures Known for Longevity

When we look at cultures with a reputation for longevity, leading nutritionists and food scientists say there is one food group that stands out. “Blue zones,” areas known for having many of their inhabitants live to an advanced age of hundred years or more, include in their diet, five of the ten most recommended foods. All are from the bean family and include lentils, soybeans, peanuts (a legume in the same family as peas and lentils), chickpeas and black beans.

People living on the Japanese island of Okinawa might enjoy a dinner of stir-fried green beans, soybeans or mung sprouts. Another meal in Nicoya, Costa Rico typically includes black beans. Known for a high level of anthocyanins, a pigment that gives red, purple, and blue plants their rich coloring, beans help fight free radicals and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. In fact, anthocyanins offer 10 times the antioxidants of an equivalent serving of oranges. 

Nutritionists say beans also boost the immune system by supplying the fiber our microbiomes need. They suggest the local diet of people in blue zones help them avoid many of the same health risks Americans suffer from such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and cancers. 

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we offer residents a lifestyle in which to comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our all-day dining service includes meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients. 

Located on the city’s west side and ideally situated for mountain views, MorningStar of Santa Fe has 56 stylish suites for assisted living with a variety of floorplans. Within our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Visit our website for further information on the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Source: cnbc.com/2020/09/15/adding-this-simple-food-to-your-diet-may-help-you-live-to-100-says-longevity-health-researcher.html

Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?

Whether it is chronic or happens every once in a while, most of us have had a restless night and woke up feeling tired. For some it is hard to fall asleep, while for others, it is difficult to stay asleep for the whole night. Sleep experts offer several tips for a restful night’s sleep and a more productive, positive day.  

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Sleep Research Society (SRS) explain sleep is as important to a healthy lifestyle as good nutrition and regular exercise. To become a better sleeper, it helps to know something about the different components of sleep.   

The current thinking for a normal night’s sleep is between seven to nine hours a night, or during a 24-hour period. They say to determine your optimal sleep amount, experiment for a few weeks by going to bed each night when you get tired and waking naturally in the morning. Another thing is to deal with health issues, which may interfere with your sleep, like restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, insomnia or other sleep disorders.  

The Mayo Clinic says it helps to go to bed at the same time each night and to wake up at the same time. On weekends try not to change your schedule by more than an hour. They also caution to not eat too heavy of a meal too close to bedtime and avoid nicotine, caffeine and other stimulates several hours before bedtime. The same goes for alcohol as it can make you fall asleep easily but causes you to awake in the middle of the night.  

Get plenty of exercise during the day but avoid doing it right before bed. Another tip is to create a calming atmosphere in the bedroom; and remember our smart devices emit glowing blue lights that experts say can disturb our circadian rhythm. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque is an assisted living and memory care community designed to provide seniors a comfortable home to safely age in place. We offer a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, along with a sense of security knowing someone is always around if needed. Care services include 24-hour care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication management and much more. Visit our website for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.  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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: healthline.com/health-news/six-tips-for-better-sleep-053114#Three-Components-of-Healthy-Sleep

Increase Flexibly with Stretching Exercises

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin.  For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did.  And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.  

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin.  In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints.  Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair.  Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.    

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Nestled in the popular Phoenix residential neighborhood of Arcadia, MorningStar offers 80 private assisted living suites and 30 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please see our website to learn more.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Phoenix offers

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/