Experts Say Assisted Living May Be More Affordable than In-home Care

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we are proud to provide unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.   While we know the many benefits assisted living and memory care provide to both residents and their families, we also understand many families worry the cost is too high.  

This is where a little research of just what is offered at senior living communities like MorningStar of Santa Fe can put a different perspective on things.   In fact many families are surprised to learn that several studies show that assisted living communities are cheaper than comparable in-home care, and may actually provide more services.  

If your loved one requires help at least 44 hours a week, experts say a home health care aid will costs an average of $3,813 per month.  Keep in mind this doesn’t even include the costs of running a home such as mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and utility bills as well as routine home maintenance expenses.  Moreover piecing together services does not even address the modifications that may have to be done to the home to ensure the person can safely move about.  

In a 2016 study, researchers reported that the average monthly cost of assisted living was $3,600 for a private room and core services.  While specialized services and other care services can increase this figure, one important benefit essential for our good health and freely provided by an assisted living community is socialization.   Given the large amount of wellness programs and activities at MorningStar of Santa Fe, we guarantee if you are looking for something to do or someone to do it with at our community, you will find it.  

Another often overlooked benefit of senior living communities like MorningStar is safety including emergency call systems in every resident’s suite and 24/7 care managers.  In fact our entire community was built from the ground up to accommodate every aspect of our residents’ needs. Please visit our website to learn more about compassionate senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.   

Source: seniorliving.org/compare/assisted-living-vs-home-care/

Sun Protection is Still Important for Older Adults

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

Doctors recommend that seniors avoid exposure to the sun during peak times (from 10 am to 4 pm) and to remember that the sun’s UV rays are still potent even on cloudy days.   Also be sure to wear sunscreen choosing a cream or lotion that is broad spectrum (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) of SPF 30 every day. If you plan to be at the beach or to play golf, wear SPF of 50 or higher.  Be sure to reapply every 1 ½ to two hours.

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

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our senior living community provides all the amenities, wellness programs and activities, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful pueblo-styled community offers 56 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations, including studio and one and two-bedroom floor plans, to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   We provide another 29 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more.  

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

Enjoy Dining at MorningStar at Arcadia

One of the top assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer, MorningStar at Arcadia understands the healing power of “breaking bread together,” and that it provides more than just nutrients but bonds us together as family and friends.  This is one of the reasons our community serves meals restaurant-style in our attractive dining room. 

Each MorningStar resident is provided with three daily meals that are meticulously prepared by our own Executive Chef.  Our meals are prepared largely from scratch and are modified to accommodate low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat diets along with seasonal menus.  Chef Wesley also welcomes residents’ feedback and adapts recipes to make sure everyone enjoys our mealtimes.  

MorningStar also makes it a priority to use BrainWise ingredients in our meals.  BrainWise super foods include those that have been recognized by the medical community to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.   Many of the common items we incorporate into our meals include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.  

For our memory care residents, we feel that dining is as much about socializing as it is about nutrition.  MorningStar has lots of experience caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and we understand their abilities at the table may be compromised.  This is why we serve lots of finger foods; softened and puréed, thickened liquids; and easy-to-recognize balanced meals packed with nutrients.   

Furthermore, team members sit with residents to help make mealtime enjoyable and encourage their appetite.  We also serve meals “family-style” from serving bowls and platters like we do at home. Family member are always welcome to join us.    

MorningStar at Arcadia’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to contact us to learn more about one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers.

Tips to Help Seniors Avoid Falling Prey to Fraud

According to the U.S. News & World Report, every year there are 5 million cases of elder fraud in the U.S., resulting in as much as $27.4 billion in losses.  Additionally these crimes are often hard for law enforcement to prosecute as in many cases; victims are too embarrassed to report the crimes.  The FBI says con artists also know that seniors do not make good witnesses even if they do report the crime due to the effects of age on their memory and the length of time it takes to bring a case to justice.     

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite, to believe people are basically good, and has a hard time saying “no.”  These are the traits con artists exploit. Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger.  

A recent scheme that targeted a large group of seniors was a robocall that informed people they needed to return the call as there was a security issue with their social security number.  When the person called back, they were asked for their full name, address and S.S. number, and told their SS# had been comprised and they would be receiving a new one.   Authorities warn that if criminals obtain someone’s full name and SS#, it allows them to do all kinds of damage to the victim including trying to collect their benefits.    

Another scam is romance fraud, which involves a person being approached by the scammer through dating sites or other social media.  A relationship ensues through online contact but never face-to-face. After a level of trust is established, the person is asked to send small amounts of money for alleged emergencies to test their willingness and gullibility.  Finally as the scam plays out, the person may give the con artist large amounts of money, or even be used to receive money or goods purchased with stolen credit cards or to transport drugs.       

The FBI warns that there are many fraudulent schemes to be aware of including telemarketing scams, Medicare scams, tax fraud, etc.  They say, “If you are age 60 or older—and especially if you are an older woman living alone—you may be a special target of people who sell bogus products and services by telephone.”  Remember to never give out personal or financial information over the phone or online and do not send money.     

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

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/how-to-prevent-senior-fraud

fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-fraud-schemes/seniors

Are You Worried Your Loved One is Living Alone without Adequate Help?

Many older adults cling to the idea of living in their own home and stubbornly refuse to accept the fact that their declining medical conditions may be putting their very safety at risk in their present living situation.  This is when family members need to step in and help make some decisions. 

In the best scenario, we typically want to make changes in things as important as our living situation with careful thought, but unfortunately, many older adults do not have such plans in place.  This reluctance to plan ahead means lots of families are unaware of today’s various senior living options, which include assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing facilities, family group homes, memory care, and continuing care communities.  

As you sort through the best care options for your parent, start by honestly assessing their medical conditions, their mobility, and care requirements.  In addition experts say to try and determine what the future holds for your loved one as you do not want to get them settled into a home and quickly realized it is not equipped to provide the care they now need.

One senior living option is assisted living, which is designed to provide your parent help with their ADLs (activities of daily living) in order to allow them to live as independently as possible.  Most assisted living communities have tiered levels of care, which means as your parent’s needs increase the home will be able to address them.   

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we offer unsurpassed senior living that includes assisted living and memory care.  We define health and well-being holistically and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Our scope of resident care is wide, reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health, and helps extend the stay of residents even as health conditions change.  Please visit our website for information regarding our various care services and amenities as well as pricing and availability. Then use our online link to set up a tour.    

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

Take a Look at Beautiful MorningStar at Arcadia

Once you visit our website and have the chance to take a look at our Gallery photos, you will see that MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia is one of the best-looking Phoenix assisted living communities.  In fact, our community was designed by the firm of Thoma-Holec Design and received First Place in the Senior Living Category at the National 2014 ASID Design for Excellence Awards.

As our pictures show from the moment you walk through the door, you will feel like you have walked into a gracious home.  From beautifully-appointed common areas that provide a comfortable, relaxing place to sit and enjoy a visit with friends, fireside patio, bistro, a full salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures and much more.  Other Gallery photos features onsite amenities such as our theatre, library (including a computer), and fitness room.

You will also notice that throughout our community everything is designed for residents’ comfort as well as to accommodate their every need.  However, while our architecture and decor are striking, the thing we are most proud of is our staff. Each of our caregivers feels privileged to serve seniors and routinely go the extra mile.

MorningStar at Arcadia offers 80 private assisted living suites on three levels with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites).  Our Reflection Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We encourage you visit our website and use our online form to schedule a tour of our very special community.  

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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. Call to schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

Is It Time for a Walker or Another Type of Mobility Aid?

If you or a loved one is starting to feel less steady on your feet and at risk of falling, a walker, cane or even a wheelchair or scooter is probably advisable.  However before you start using a hand-me-down walker or buy any-old cane; experts warn that one size does not fit all. In the case of a walker, to be an effective and safe mobility aid, it is important to have an expert help you pick out the best type and size for your needs.   

As AgingCure.com points out, “The wrong device can negatively affect a senior’s stability, cause posture-related problems and even result in pain. Mobility aids come in all shapes and sizes, so selecting the right equipment and achieving a proper fit usually requires a professional’s assistance and expertise.”  To get started determining what your needs are, experts recommend seeing your healthcare provider to discuss any problems you are having with your activities of daily living (ADLs). If they recognize a need for a mobility aid, they may refer you to an occupational or physical therapist.  

The following are a couple of basic guidelines to know before you get started.  A cane can help provide balance and stability and is ideal for someone who needs to support no more than 25% of their body weight.  It is most useful for those minimally impaired or with weakness in one leg. Walkers are available in a variety of models but regardless of the style a “correct height of a walker is measured from the floor to the wrist, and the elbows should be flexed in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.”  Experts also say the walker must be large enough to provide front and side support for the user.  

A motorized scooter may be the answer for someone who has lost the ability to walk any distance but still has an adequate amount of strength in their arms and upper body to stay upright as well as drive the scooter.  Again there are a variety of models including indoor and outdoor ones as well. Keep in mind though that most insurance companies and Medicare Part B typically only cover scooters for in-house use.     

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

Source: agingcare.com/articles/expert-advice-how-to-choose-a-mobility-aid-190138.htm

Touring an Assisted Living Community

Just as MorningStar at Arcadia encourages anyone interested in our community to schedule a tour, so do most other assisted living communities.   This is because you cannot really get an idea of what a community looks like or feels like without seeing it in person.  

In addition to wanting your loved one to be happy in their new “home,” your priorities most likely include finding a community that is well run, clean, and within your price range.   Experts recommend your first step should be to do some research over the Internet and on the phone. 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.    

Senior support network Caring.com has a great checklist (it is even printable) of tips to consider for when touring an assisted living community.  To start with, they say you should always listen to your gut instincts. From the moment you walk through the door, do you get a good feeling?  Regardless of how beautifully decorated, does it feel welcoming and have a home-like atmosphere? If they offer the service, eat lunch with the residents as it will help to give you a more complete picture of the community.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we are committed to being one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer, and we encourage families to come and visit as we are proud of each and every aspect of our community.  Not only is our community beautifully decorated and designed for residents’ every comfort and need, but we have a staff that is committed to serving seniors and come to work each day with a smile on their face.  Please visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar at Arcadia’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to contact us to learn more about one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers.

Source: caring.com/articles/assisted-living-facilities-choosing-the-right-one#research

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar of Sparks

Many studies have discovered that pets can be very beneficial for the elderly.  For example, the various tasks that go along with caring for a dog such as taking them for a walk offers good cardiovascular exercise for seniors.  Additionally petting, grooming and feeding a pet help to keep seniors engaged in life and give them a sense of purpose.   

Pets also offer unconditional love and their loyal companionship can help alleviant loneliness.  Research points to evidence that pet and human interactions can help to lower cholesterol levels, fight depression, and reduce stress, which is why they are so beneficial to the elderly. In fact researchers report that “15 minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin.” 

It used to be that when someone moved into a retirement community they had to give up their pet.  Now more and more senior living communities have recognized the benefits of pets and allow seniors to bring them.  Pets can even be beneficial to others living in the community and help draw out residents that may not be very communicative.       

At MorningStar of Sparks, we could not agree more about the benefits of pets and we are happy to be a pet friendly community.  All that’s missing from our spacious, stylish independent and assisted living suites are your personal furnishings and treasures—even the furry kind!   

Please visit our website to learn about our beautiful senior living community just east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs. We offer residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community and provide a whole range of resort-style amenities and wellness programs.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of 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. 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, NV.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living     

Looking for Senior Living in Albuquerque?

If you are looking for the best senior living Albuquerque has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Albuquerque.  We are located on the northeast side of town between Paseo del Norte and Palomas, with wonderful mountain views and proximity to banks, hospitals, shopping, and restaurants.

Our community has 48 stylish, assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans up to 798 sq. ft.  Each of our apartments come with high ceilings, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini-blinds. Our suites also have overhead lighting, large windows, and their own heating and cooling system.  To ensure residents’ safety, all of our apartments are equipped with emergency call systems and handicapped-accessible bathrooms.  

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, we are here to help.  Our community’s Reflections Neighborhood has 21 secure suites in a range of floorplans and is designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their spacious surroundings as much as possible.  As dementia experts, we are privileged to provide unsurpassed, individualized care that includes using some of the most respected research-based care programs to give our residents the best life possible. 

All residents are offered a wide range of resort-style amenities and services, 24/7 care, and three daily meals prepared largely from scratch and served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room.  We also provide wellness programs and activities designed to support and engage residents physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially.   

Please visit our website to set up a tour to see firsthand why seniors are proud to call us home.  We look forward to meeting you and your family.

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

The Creative Arts Provides Multiple Benefits for the Elderly

According to many studies, the creative arts provide older adults with multiple benefits including improving cognitive function.  The Today’s Geriatrics Medicine’s website states that, “Current studies in the fields of art therapy, music therapy, and other creative modalities confirm that art can affect individuals in positive ways by inducing both psychological and physiological healing. We know that, in general, exercising our creative selves enhances quality of life and nurtures overall well-being.”

For many seniors, the creative arts can help relieve boredom, provide an opportunity to learn new skills, re-engage in life, and even help prevent feelings of depression and anxiety.  Experts say the arts also can bolster seniors’ self-esteem, and put them in group settings, which increases socialization and helps to develop interpersonal skills. Moreover with so many choices to choose from, a person is sure to find something of interest whether it is painting, drawing, sketching, pottery, music, dancing, weaving, or knitting among others.  Seniors also have the luxury of time to reconnect to an old hobby or passion.   

Being creative provides seniors with an outlet to express their feelings.  In addition research suggests the arts may help seniors who are coping with chronic pain by lessening their feelings of discouragement and depression.   

At MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we understand the value the arts have in helping our residents feel passionate and engaged in life.  In fact each day our goal is to help residents continue to learn and contribute with activities that enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain, and encourage connection.  Our pueblo-styled community has 56 bright suites for assisted living and include spacious studios and one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 820 sq. ft.). We have another 29 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please contact us for more information about luxurious senior living in Santa Fe, NM.   

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

Source: 

managedhealthcareconnect.com/articles/use-art-therapy-geriatric-populations

arttherapyblog.com/c/art-therapy-seniors/#.XTKPKehKhPY

Dining at MorningStar at Arcadia’s Memory Care Neighborhood

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that many people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease may be “overwhelmed with too many food choices, forget to eat or have difficulty with eating utensils.”   This can be a problem as we know healthy eating is especially important for those with dementia and that poor nutrition can result in weight loss and increase behavioral symptoms.  

This is why in addition to the many aspects of MorningStar at Arcadia’s memory care; we take our residents’ nutritional concerns very seriously.  One of the things we do to encourage our tender memory care residents to eat is to make dining as much about Community as it is about nutrition. At mealtime, team members sit with residents to help make meal time an enjoyable, shared experience.  We also regularly serve meals family-style on platters and serving bowls to prompt residents to connect with memories of meals they have eaten or prepared during their lives. Family members are invited to join us at any time.     

We also present food on long appetizer-style plates with separate cups and bowls for individual items.  The plates are often in a variety of colors to increase the visual and mental appeal of the meal.   

As our MorningStar at Arcadia team is extremely experienced in caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we know it is important to serve foods that taste as good as they look.  Furthermore, we understand some residents’ abilities at the table may be compromised, which is why we also serve finger foods; mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids; and easy-to-recognize balanced meals.  

Please visit our website to learn more about our loving Phoenix assisted living and memory care community. Along with 30 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those suffering from memory impairment, MorningStar at Arcadia offers 80 assisted living suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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. Call to schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s Answers to FAQs

MorningStar at Arcadia’s goal is to provide one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers.   Along with our beautiful 80 assisted living suites and 30 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we proudly offer a range of amenities and activities that embrace the physical, intellectual, spiritual and social needs of seniors.  

Although we strongly recommend that families schedule a tour to experience our community firsthand, we give you lots of information in advance on our website under a section entitled “FAQ.”  This section is intended to provide answers to many questions families have when deciding if MorningStar at Arcadia is the best option for them.  

We start by answering some questions regarding our company.  You will learn that MorningStar is not just a family of senior living communities, but what we refer to as “senior loving homes.” We feel it is not only our privilege to serve but our pleasure to love all those beneath our roof.  In addition, our staff is made up of individuals that have servants’ hearts and are prepared to meet the needs of others. Our unique Radiance program guides the way we provide our service and is designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.  

Our FAQs further explain MorningStar’s various senior living options.  Our assisted living suites are available to individuals 62 years and older and offer compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting.  Trained care managers are onsite 24/7 to monitor our residents’ health and make adjustments in care as needed. 

You will also find answers to how we determine the level of care we provide to residents.  Once you commit to MorningStar, our Wellness Director will assess your current health, and review your medical history to ascertain how we can best meet your needs.  At this time, we discuss your personal preferences and routines to help us create a customized care plan. Please visit our website for more information, and while you are there, set up a tour of our beautiful community.  

MorningStar at Arcadia’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to contact us to learn more about one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer.

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

As we age, many of us experience occasional memory loss.  While it may be worrisome, most likely it is just a normal part of growing older.  In the case of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, a common indicator of the disease is memory loss that happens so often it disrupts daily life.  The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and recommends if you or a loved one has any of them, to see your health care provider.  

The first sign that you or a loved one’s memory loss may be a sign of a bigger problem is constantly forgetting new information.  Memory loss may include: needing to have the same information repeated over and over; forgetting important dates and events; and relying more and more on family members or memory aids to handle things.   

Another way memory loss can adversely affect a person’s life is when it becomes difficult to problem solve.  He or she may find it hard to do things they have done well in the past such as keeping track of monthly bills or following a recipe.  Some individuals with Alzheimer’s have problems losing their way when traveling familiar routes or keeping track of the month or season of the year.  Also, a person may start putting things away in odd places and not remember where they put them. We encourage you to read the Alzheimer’s Association’s full list of common signs of Alzheimer’s.  

MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living community, provides loving, compassionate care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Our beautiful community offers 30 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood designed to care for those in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.   

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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. Call to schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

Source:  alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

Assisted Living May be a Better Value than In-home Care

According to a survey conducted by Genworth Financial in 2018 the median monthly cost for an assisted living community is $4000 (costs vary depending on the community) – totaling $48,000 annually.  In comparison, the median cost of long-term care by a home health aide is $4,195 monthly or $50,336 annually.  

The fact that many assisted living communities are actually less expensive than seniors choosing to live in their own home and bring in a team of caregivers to provide the services they need surprises many people.  The reason for this is so many of the services a senior pays separately for to stay at home are included in the cost of assisted living.  

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque eliminate the cost of such things as property taxes, property insurance, condominium maintenance fees, and 24-hour security. You no longer need to pay for lawn mowing, snow removal, and other repair and replacement costs.  Also as a resident of Mountain Shadows, you will no longer need to buy groceries and prepare meals as we take care of food prep and serve three daily meals restaurant-style. Moreover each suite is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system, and light housekeeping and daily trash removal are part of our services.  

Other features offered by many assisted living communities including MorningStar of Albuquerque are free entertainment and ready-made socializing.  With a wide selection of wellness programs, activities, and special events and outings, residents at our community can stay as busy as they like.   In addition onsite amenities such as a movie theatre, chapel, fitness room, library with a computer, and more adds to the convenience as well as the value assisted living communities can offer.   

MorningStar of Albuquerque has 48 private assisted living suites and 21 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We are committed to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, and encourage you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community.

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

Source: genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html

Prepare for Your Next Healthcare Visit

We have all had the experience of visiting our doctor’s and afterward thinking of questions we wished we had thought to ask.  The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), a division of the U.S. Dept. of Human Health & Services, says asking questions and providing information to your healthcare providers, actually helps to improve your care.  Also when you actively participate in your care, it helps build trust between you and your doctor and leads to better results.  

The AHRQ has put together a series of questionnaires to facilitate better communication between you and your doctor.  They explain that once you get in the habit of preparing questions beforehand, you can more efficiently use your time with the doctor (doctors spend between 13 to 24 minutes with each patient).    

Questions will change depending on the reason for your visit such as discussing a medical procedure (remember you are your own best advocate).  AHRQ recommends asking:  why do I need this procedure; how many times have you performed it; and when will I get the results?  It is also advisable to ask if there are alternative treatments that are just as effective; possible complications; and what hospital is best for this type of procedure?   

If you are being prescribed a new medication, AHRQ says to ask how the new drug will interact with other prescription drugs you are taking as well as with over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements and vitamins you use.  Also ask how long you will be taking the drug and any common side effects.   

Another good take-away from the article is it reminds patients that doctors and nurses welcome questions as they let them know you understand their instructions and are an active partner in your care.  If you feel overwhelmed by lots of new information, consider bringing a family member or trusted friend along with you to the appointment.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno 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 invite you to schedule a tour to see for yourself our exceptional community. 

Source: ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/ask-your-doctor/index.html   

Socialization is a Key Component to a Senior’s Overall Health

Studies show that socialization is a key component to a senior’s overall health and can help to reduce stress and anxiety and maintain cognitive health as well as improve longevity.  Conversely older adults who are isolated have been found to be more at risk for a range of health problems including cardiovascular disease and depression.   

Researchers also found that the more social a person is the more likely they are to exercise on a regular basis.  This is important as older adults are susceptible to a number of health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart trouble, cancer and chronic illnesses that can benefit from exercise. In addition daily exercise can prevent muscles and bones from deteriorating in old age.  A good way for older adults to exercise is at a community class designed for seniors as you have the opportunity to socialize and to stay motivated.   

Senior living communities such as MorningStar of Sparks provide seniors a healthy lifestyle designed around comfort, wellness and community.  Our mission is to care for residents’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs within a loving, secure setting. MorningStar’s monthly calendar consists of a range of exercise classes, arts and crafts projects, and enjoyable, challenging games.  We also have fun celebrating holidays and hosting special events and outings.   

MorningStar of Sparks offers 128 spacious suites for independent living along with 80 assisted living suites for those needing help with daily activities.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please visit our website to learn more about one of the best Greater Reno retirement communities. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno 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 invite you to schedule a tour to see for yourself our exceptional community. 

Source:

actsretirement.org/latest-retirement-news/blog/2017/12/12/the-importance-of-socializing-for-seniors/

Service at MorningStar is Dispensed with a Smile!

At MorningStar of Sparks, our goal is to be one of the best Greater Reno retirement communities, and the care, comfort and wellbeing of our residents is our greatest priority.  This is why we have a group of team members who feel privileged to serve seniors and are the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  Our dedicated team is the heartbeat of our community and strives to deliver service that represents the mission and philosophy of MorningStar Senior Living, which includes honoring God and valuing seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.

Our vision is to create a true home for our residents, and we consider both our residents and team members to be part of the MorningStar of Sparks family.  To provide caregivers and other team members with the tools they need to bring their best to the community, our staff receives training in “Radiance,” our proprietary brand of Service Excellence. 

Radiance embodies the ways we advance our mission and deliver our service - with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose.  Furthermore, it is reiterated each day during our daily Huddle so as to create a culture that is not only defined by what we do but by the kind of people who bring it all to life – our team members. 

Our community offers beautiful suites for both independent and assisted living. Additionally, our Reflections Neighborhood has secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment.  Both inside and out, you will find a community complete with warm and inviting common areas to sit and enjoy a chat with friends or to enjoy the weather from our fireside patio or all-season porches.   

In addition, as a resident of MorningStar, you will also discover we have a monthly calendar of meaningful wellness programs as well as creative and social activities to choose to participate in.  Please visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno 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 community.

What Does Assisted Living at MorningStar of Sparks Offer?

At MorningStar of Sparks, we understand that families are often confused by the term “assisted living” and just what type of services it includes.  If you take a look at our website, you will get a good idea of what we can provide for you or your loved one.   

To start with, our senior living community offers 80 one- and two bedroom assisted living suites that range in a variety of configurations and floor plans.  Each suite has wall-to-wall carpeting, mini blinds, high ceilings and lots of overhead lighting.  And yes, MorningStar of Sparks is pet friendly. 

In terms of services provided for our assisted living residents, we do just about whatever it takes to ensure the comfort and safety of each individual.  Before you move in, our Wellness Director will sit down and talk with you and your family to learn more about your medical history and discuss the types of services you will require.  From there, we create a care plan with your approval, which is periodically reviewed and updated if needed. 

MorningStar offers five levels of care (each with an attending monthly fee) and you will be placed within one of those levels.  However regardless of the level of care, you will have around-the-clock Care Managers on site to meet your every need.  

Some of the services available to you include a licensed nurse on call 24/7; a CPR-trained team member on every shift, certified Med Care Managers, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, diabetic management, transportation to medical appointments and pharmacy services.   We also offer palliative and hospice care when required.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Sparks and to read the entire list of Wellness Services available.        

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of 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. 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, NV.

Common Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

While we have all heard a lot about Alzheimer’s and may even know someone suffering from the disease, we may not be aware of the common signs and symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s.  Many people think that forgetting things is a sign of Alzheimer’s, while others too readily accept certain symptoms of Alzheimer’s as just getting older. 

The Alzheimer’s Association has a website full of useful information and resources for families dealing with the disease and publishes a list of the 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's.  One of the first signs they say is a symptom of Alzheimer’s is not occasional forgetfulness but forgetfulness that disrupts daily life.  For example the person is having problems retaining recently learned information and trouble remembering important dates or events, or they are asking the same questions over and over again.   

People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may have more difficulty doing things they used to do easily such as paying bills or following recipes.  Even driving to well-known locations or remembering the rules of a favorite game can be troublesome. Other signs include feeling confused about the passage of time and finding it harder and harder to keep track of dates, time and seasons.   

Experiencing vision problems such as judging distances and determining color or contrast as well as problems following or partaking in a conversation are also common signs of the disease.   Other signs can include changes in personality and mood, and withdrawing from social activities the person used to enjoy. For the full listing and description of the 10 Common Signs of Alzheimer’s, please visit the Alzheimer’s Association website.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our mission is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our community cares for those in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

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