Dealing with a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is devastating for everyone in the family and an uncomfortable, difficult topic for people to talk about.  In some cases, even physicians do not discuss the disease with their patients, and sometimes a person is unaware of the diagnosis.  Others may try to hide their memory problems, and as a result, end up with little time to put their affairs in order and plan for the future.  

However experts say it is important to discuss the diagnosis and its ramifications with your family in order to make your wishes known regarding your care.  One of the things you will want to do is to designate a family member to make decisions on your behalf once you are unable to do so. With the help of your family, you will also need to make financial decisions such as setting aside assets to pay for long-term care in an assisted living facility or for home care.  Keep in mind that planning ahead also gives your family peace of mind as they will know they are following your wishes.

Another one of the recommendations from experts who work with Alzheimer’s patients is to have the person tell their life story.  This can be in a journal form or recorded and provides a meaningful way for the family to bond together. Furthermore, it helps to make the person feel that they are a valued member of the family.   

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our mission is to provide the best senior living Phoenix has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We treat each of our residents with dignity and respect and find ways to connect with and nurture their very essence.  Our memory care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.

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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2017-06-26/5-steps-to-ending-the-stigma-surrounding-dementia 

Keeping Your Body and Your Brain Fit

More and more research supports the importance of seniors staying physical fit as well as keeping their brains’ fit.  Harvard Health Publishing reports on research with mice and humans that show “brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells, developing neurological ‘plasticity’ and building up a functional reserve that provides a hedge against future cell loss.”   

Mentally stimulating activity such as trivia and memory games, puzzles, crosswords, board and card games can help maintain brain function.  Even if you don’t have a partner to play with, many of these types of games can be found on a computer or tablet.   Reading, taking courses, drawing, painting and experimenting with things that require manual dexterity are stimulating mental gymnastics.  Other great brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities like playing an instrument or dancing.

Board games, such as chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out.  Another added benefit to playing games with other is companionship.   

Experts say physical activity is also necessary for good brain health as it increases the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain responsible for thought.  It encourages the development of “new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells (synapses).”   Another positive side effect of exercise is it also improves your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure, improving blood sugar balance and reducing mental stress.  Brain health is also improved with good nutrition.   Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, unsaturated oils (olive oil) and plant sources of proteins may help to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.

Looking for the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers?  MorningStar of Sparks may be your answer.  By providing a range of meaningful programs, tasty, nutritional meals, and 24/7 care, residents are able to lead a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Please see our website to learn more.

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. We encourage you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Sources:

health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/12-ways-to-keep-your-brain-young

mindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/

Keeping Healthy as You Age

The website, Everyday Health Media reports that you can expect to live on average another 19.3 years if you reach the age of 65.  However they explain in order to be one of those lucky enough to live to be 85 years or older, you need to carefully manage your chronic health conditions and follow good health habits.  

Aging experts such as Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School, explains, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet and also make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.”  She adds that it is helpful to include a geriatrician on your health care team.  

Furthermore, it is never too late to begin improving your health.  Whether you are suffering from diabetes, heart disease, or many other chronic health problems, doctors say you can benefit from even a moderate amount of physical activity.  Engaging in physical activity helps to make your bones and muscles stronger and can lessen your risk for falls. Also if you do have a fall, your bones will be stronger and less likely to break.  Additionally research shows that physical activity is as good for your brain as it is for your body, but before you embark on any new physical activity, please talk to your physician.  

The FamilyDoctor.org website suggests that walking may be the easiest exercise for seniors as you can start at your own pace and you do not need any special equipment.  They also recommend gardening, dancing, swimming, Tai chi or yoga as good exercises for seniors.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our goal is to provide one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers, which includes making it easy for seniors to live a healthy lifestyle.  Our meals are both tasty as well as healthy and we offer lots of fun physical activities to keep our residents moving.  Please see our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

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 loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to schedule a tour of one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers.

Sources: everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/  

familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html   

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers a Special Way to Connect

MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, is pleased to offer our residents a state-of-the-art way to connect with the “It’s Never 2 Late” technology that combines touchscreen computers with intuitive, picture-based software.  The revolutionary engagement system contains a library of 3,000 ways to connect socially, spiritually, and intellectually and offers physical stimulation and emotional support.    

The intuitive design provides numerous user-friendly components to ensure it is easy for all of our residents to comfortably use the computer program regardless of their abilities or limitations.  With a simple press of a button, the user can launch hundreds of applications designed for recreation or social connections. 

The program simplifies email and offers webchats using Skype, an array of online newspapers and easy navigation of the web.  Each user can personalize their experience on iN2L by setting up a “My Page,” in order to easily access their favorite games, email addresses, family photos, and favorite websites.  A resident’s My Page can be used to foster interactions between family members and to keep up-to-date on events and goings on through Skype and email.   

All of the program’s activities are adapted to engage residents’ interest and unique abilities and include trivia, puzzle and brain games designed to entertain as well as to maintain brain functions.  In addition it also has inspirational videos, sermons, history, quizzes and interactive virtual tours to name but a few of the many features.  

Health and Wellness programs offer a balance of spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and social.  Also iN2L includes a fall prevention program and multiple exercise videos designed to improve strength and balance.  There is even a therapy component to iN2L that can be used to enhance speech, physical and occupational therapy experiences.   For our memory care residents, there is stimulating engagement content categorized to reflect different levels of cognition and to keep the person entertained and connected.

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.

Osteoporosis Causes Bones to Become Week and Brittle

The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that “around 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, placing them at an increased risk for osteoporosis.” Research also indicates that approximately one in every two women and up to one in four men age 50 years and older will break a bone due to osteoporosis.  These injuries often lead to serious complications, and in fact, twenty percent of seniors who break a hip die within one year of surgery and many others require long-term care. 

The Mayo Clinic reports that osteoporosis-related fractures occur most commonly in the hip, wrist or spine.  They explain that our bones are made up of living tissue that is “constantly being broken down and replaced.”  The disease occurs when the creation of new bone is not keeping up with the removal of old bone. As we age, bone replacement slows down and our overall bone mass is reduced faster than we can recreate it.   

The bones of people suffering from the disease become increasingly more brittle to the point that a mild fall may cause a broken bone.  In the most severe cases of osteoporosis, a fracture can occur from even movements such as coughing or bending over. The disease affects both men and women, although women are much more likely to get it and older white and Asian women (especially those post-menopausal) are at the highest risk.  

There are a number of health problems, medicines, and life-style choices that can increase your chance of getting osteoporosis.  These include autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and multiple sclerosis, breast and prostate cancer, endocrine/hormonal disorders including diabetes, a poor diet, and smoking among other factors.  

A painless test is used to measure bone density and to determine the proportion of mineral in your bones.  To treat osteoporosis, patients at the highest risk are often prescribed different types of medications.  For others at a lower risk, they are advised to eat a healthy diet, quit smoking and to engage in weight-bearing exercises. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

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.

Sources: nof.org/patients/what-is-osteoporosis/ 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/home/ovc-20207808  

Taking Better Care of Yourself Can Make a Big Difference

Seniors often feel it is too late to make a difference in their health or that it may be too complicated to do so.  The truth is that taking better care of your physical health can be quite simple and enjoyable and may help you feel like a new person.

Our first piece of advice is to make sure you are managing your medical conditions, diseases and ailments in the most effective manner.  This includes making sure you are receiving the best medical care for your medical issues as well as learning about and practicing activities that can help you better manage your conditions.  Such as did you know that certain types of exercises can reduce your blood sugar and may even eliminate the need to take insulin?  Also making small changes to your diet may not only help you take off a few extra pounds but relieve pain in your back and knees.    

Furthermore, enough cannot be said about the benefits of regular physical activity regardless of your age or state of health.  Exercises for seniors should include daily or weekly routines to improve balance, flexibility, aerobic conditioning, and muscle strengthening.   However, before you integrate an exercise activity into your life, please consult with your health care provider.   

Another aspect of improving our physical health is to practice good nutrition.  Seniors can benefit from eating well and drinking plenty of water.   Changing to a healthier diet will give you more energy and help you lose weight and prevent or alleviate the severity of illnesses.   

Lastly experts say it is important for people of any age including seniors to get enough sleep.  A good night’s sleep will help you feel more energetic during the day, and it is recommended seniors 65 years and older get seven to nine hours of sleep per night.   

At MorningStar of Sparks, our mission is to provide seniors the best independent and assisted living Reno–Sparks offers, which includes nutritional, tasty daily meals.  We also provide our residents with peace of mind knowing that others are around in the event of an emergency.   Please visit our website to see more about the resort-style amenities and services we provide to ensure the comfort and wellness of our residents.   

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. We encourage you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Why People in Certain Areas of the World Live Longer

Over the last couple of decades, researchers have become interested in why people in certain areas across the globe have a longer lifespan.  While America’s current average age expectancy is 78 years old, it is much higher in many other places in the world.  Areas such as Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Icaria, Greece count many more centenarians among their population.  These regions are known as “Blue Zones,” and the individuals living well into their 90s and more are typically healthy in both mind and body.  

National Geographic writer, Dan Buettner, spend years studying each culture, and wrote a book about his findings called, The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.  In his book, he cites 9 lifestyle habits that all of the groups had in common.

One of the habits he mentions is that the very elderly in these areas continue to move naturally as part of their everyday life and some still work in the fields.  Conversely in our country, many people lead sedentary lifestyles and find it difficult to get enough exercise. John Day, MD, author of The Longevity Plan, suggests ways to remedy the problem.  He writes, “For example you could take a vow to never use an elevator or escalator again unless the stairs are restricted. Other options include an evening walk or doing everything possible to avoid having to use a car. Even vacations can be scheduled in a way that is physically active, like a vacation centered around skiing, hiking, or cycling.”

Another common trait shared by many of the elderly in the Blue Zones is that they still had a purpose in life.  Many studies support that by reporting the connection between our minds, our health, and our sense of purpose is very powerful and leads to better health outcomes.  Simply said you need to have a reason to get out of bed each morning.  

It is also recommended that we eat until we are only 80 percent full and stick to a “plant-forward diet.”  Along with eating lots of vegetables and whole grains, cut back or eliminate sugar-filled or processed foods from your diet.  Other suggestions for longevity include maintaining strong family ties, having a sense of community and a good social life.    

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our goal is to give seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and community.  By offering the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM, our residents receive nutritional, tasty meals and have access to wellness programs and activities and a wide range of care services.  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.  Conveniently situated on the west side of town, our website has more details on the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: https://www.wellandgood.com/good-advice/blue-zone-power-9/

Holiday Gift Ideas for an Elderly Loved One

Every year the holidays sneak up on us and seem to get here before we know it.  For many of us that means trying to think of a thoughtful gift for an elderly parent or another senior loved one. 

There are a couple of reasons this task can be difficult including the fact that seniors often have most everything they need already.  In addition your loved one may be living in a smaller apartment or resides in a senior living community where many of his or her day-to-day needs are met.  In other words, they are not running a full household including cooking daily meals or doing a lot of in-home entertaining.

Living in smaller quarters also makes gift ideas more challenging as they may not have a lot of extra room for more stuff.  This is why unique gifts that are practical, personal or help to improve quality of life make great presents and the Internet has lots of ideas.  

A popular suggestion is memory-making presents and each year there seems to be more and more clever options to choose from.   Throws and mugs with pictures of family are always welcomed as is a moving picture frame chocked full of recent photos of the grandkids (or great-grandkids).  Also remember your time is one of the best gifts of all and giving an elderly parent an empty photo album, a box of family photos and a commitment that you will help them put it together is a way to make new memories and share old ones.   

Another good gift is a sound machine for anyone with problems sleeping, and many can be set to run for a specific time.  Monthly subscriptions for baskets of particular foods they love, fancy lotions and soaps, teas or other goodies also make excellent gifts.  If a loved one is hearing-impaired, a wireless headphone set that clarifies dialogue from the TV is a gift they will appreciate as well as everyone around them.  For the sight-impaired, consider a lighted magnifying glass or oversized playing cards and such. Puzzles, fancy coloring books with a new set of colored pencils or markers, or brain games are also good ideas.  

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we proudly offer the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  Our beautiful assisted living and memory care community provides all of the services and amenities residents need to ensure their utmost comfort.  Please visit our website for availability and pricing.  

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 visit our website for more details on exceptional senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Touring a Senior Living Community

If you are starting to search for senior living, it is recommended that you take a tour of the community.  While all the beautiful pictures online or in a brochure can make a community look great, firsthand impressions go a long way toward getting a real feel of the place. 

Before your visit, make sure the senior living communities you are interested in offer the options you want – independent living and/or assisted living.  If a family member needs memory care, is there a separate wing devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

If you are looking for assisted living, please keep in mind it is important that you get it right the first time as it is hard on your loved one to get settled somewhere and then decide it is not a good fit.  During your tour, A Place for Mom, the largest assisted living referral service, recommends that you start evaluating the place from the moment you walk through the door.  Ask yourself, does it look clean and orderly as well as smell fresh?  Inquire about housekeeping services and how often private suites are cleaned, the costs involved, general maintenance of the community, and security.      

If you can, come during an activity so you can join in the fun.  This will give you a good idea of the staff’s friendliness around the residents.  Also arrange to eat lunch at the place as it will not only provide you with a firsthand taste of the food but allow you to leisurely enjoy time with other residents.   

At MorningStar of Sparks we are committed to provide the best senior living Reno-Sparks offers, and the wellbeing and comfort of our residents is our highest priority.  We are proud to offer 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 for assisted living for those who need help with the activities of daily living. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.   

Visit our website to conveniently schedule a tour or give us a call.  We look forward to meeting you and your family. 

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

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/tips-for-touring-assisted-living

Additional Health Concerns as the Weather Changes

Now that fall is here, many of us are looking forward to the cooler temperatures.  However, along with the changing color of the leaves, fall can also trigger allergies and asthma symptoms for many sufferers as pollen and other particulate matter can be quite common during these months.  Since we all spend more time indoors during the cooler months, it also increases the spread of viruses.  As seniors we have a higher risk of catching a cold, the flu, an acute ear infection or bronchiolitis.  

The Arthritis Foundation also reports “cooler temperatures can lead to greater joint pain” and explain that a “drop in atmospheric pressure has been linked to greater discomfort among those living with arthritis.”  Another common fall illness is Raynaud Syndrome, which is associated with symptoms such as poor circulation, numbness and swelling.   

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reminds everyone to get a flu vaccine before the flu starts spreading in your community as it takes about two weeks for the protective antibodies to develop in the body.  They recommend everyone over the age of 6 months should plan to get vaccinated by the end of October.   

In addition, even though air temperatures are cooler, we still need to remember to stay hydrated and to drink plenty of water throughout the day.  Staying hydrated can help ward off infections and give us all more energy.  Your body’s cells, tissue, and organs need water to work properly, and it is used to maintain temperature, remove waste and lubricate joints. 

Looking for the best senior living Reno – Sparks has to offer? We encourage you to consider MorningStar of Sparks.  We have stylish living for independent seniors as well as for those that require a little help each day with personal care activities.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we devote 32 secure suites to the individualized care for residents with memory impairment.   

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

Source: clinicalkey.com/info/blog/5-common-fall-illnesses/

Interior Design for Your Assisted Living Suite

We all know that life changes can be fraught with anxiety and fear and moving into assisted living is certainly a major change for many seniors.  However, experts say there are several things families can do to help ease the transition period.   

One of those things is to help your loved one make a comfortable home in their new suite.  Julia Bailey, a senior associate and interior design project manager with Denver-based OZ Architecture, explains that, "Moving into assisted living often can feel like a loss of independence and privacy for your loved one, but thoughtful interior design can go a long way toward improving happiness and well-being for the resident, as well as improving overall functionality of the new living space."  

Ms. Bailey cautions that you need to remember to let your loved one have a say in how their new home will be decorated including the personal mementos and photos they want to bring with them and which ones they want to display.  Trigging happy memories with sentimental items is a big step toward making their new place a real home. Also accent pillows and pictures are an easy way to add a lot of color and attractiveness to their place.  

Please keep in mind safety concerns when placing furniture and avoid using area rugs that can become trip hazards or overcrowding a room and not leaving enough space to easily navigate.  Install hand rails where needed and make sure there is easily accessible lighting in the bathrooms and hallways if the person is getting up at night.    

Helping your loved stay organized can improve the home’s safety as well as the aesthetic.  Consider any mobility issues the person may have and make sure frequently used items are within easy reach on a shelf.  Chairs and sofas should be firm and stable.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we have 48 private bright suites for assisted living and another 21 secure suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.    We are committed to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, and invite 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: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/best-assisted-living/slideshows/decorating-tips-for-assisted-living

Fall Signals the Start of Flu Season

Along with fall’s changing leaves and cooler temperatures, it also signals the start of the flu season, which means you need to start thinking about getting your annual flu shot.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older gets a seasonal flu vaccine each year by the end of October.   

The flu season begins to increase in October, and typically peaks between December and February but can last as late as May.  Also as it takes about two weeks after your vaccination for the protective antibodies to develop, it is important to get it early in the season. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the various viruses that are in the vaccine.     

The CDC stresses it is especially important for people 65 years and older to get a flu shot as they are at greater risk for serious complications that can result in hospitalization and, in some cases, even death.   This is because seniors’ immune systems are generally weaker than those of younger adults.  Complications of flu can include: bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.  The CDC also recommends people 65 years and older get a flu shot approved for their age group and not a nasal spray vaccine.    

Additionally you need to know that last year’s flu shot will not protect you from this season’s flu virus.  Not only has your immunity from last year’s shot started to wane, but each year the viruses change so you need the protection of the new antibodies.  The flu shot you receive this year has been designed to protect against the flu viruses that researcher have determined will be the most common in the 2019- 2020 flu season.    

MorningStar of Sparks offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer. 

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

Our Holistic View of Healthcare Provides Residents with Unsurpassed Care

Our MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living community offers residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Together MorningStar’s Enrichment team and our Wellness Care team play a large role in why our beautiful community is the best choice for senior living in Santa Fe.  

To start with, all assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more).  Also they have access to a licensed nurse onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock; and every shift has an employee who is CPR certified. We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  Moreover we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically do Care Plan reviews and update residents’ care plan as needed.   

Our centralized, mobile Electronic Health Record (EHR) system ensures accurate records of assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).   The system maintains accurate, legible and complete demographic and medical information on residents as well as enhances privacy and security of the data.  

Other clinical care services provided by MorningStar include mechanical lift assistance, diabetic management, oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care and more.  We provide scheduled physician visits, a choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.  

This wide scope of care services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health and helps to extend the stay of our residents even when health conditions change.  We also pride ourselves on finding creative solutions that can result in higher quality of care at a lower cost for families. For a full list of care services, we encourage you to visit our website and take a look at our Care Services page.   

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

How a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Effects the Family

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all.  Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold.  Most are left with questions about what to expect next.  

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.”  They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better.  Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors.  Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned.  You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.   

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day.  A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so. Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away.  

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings.  They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses.  Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our goal 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 memory care residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve and spend each day in an atmosphere that celebrates and elevates their lives. Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour.  

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.

A Good Night’s Sleep Can Make Your Day!

Getting a good night’s sleep is important no matter what your age is including seniors as it impacts both our physical and mental health.  HelpGuide.org explains that not getting enough sleep can contribute to negative health conditions and put you at risk for heart disease, heart attack, heart failure,  high blood pressure, stoke and diabetes.    

Research has found that insufficient sleep can cause the release of insulin that leads to an increase of fat storage and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.  It may also make people more susceptible to depression, fatigue, and premature aging of the skin. Other problems can include an impaired attention span as well as difficulty in problem solving, reasoning and concentration.  In addition experts suggest chronic fatigue may contribute to weight problems and even breast cancer in women.    

However when we routinely get good sleep, it can improve concentration and memory formation.  Help Guide reports that restful sleep gives the body time to repair any cell damage that may have occurred during the day and to refresh our immune systems, which may help prevent disease.  

So how much sleep do we need?  Studies find healthy adults should get around 7.5 to 9 hours of sleep each night; however, it is less about the actual hours and more about whether you feel rested.   Tips to improve your sleep habits include limiting caffeine late in the day and avoiding alcohol before bedtime. If you are hungry, eat a light snack that avoids sugary foods and those high in refined carbs.  Also avoid drinking liquids about an hour and half before bed.  

At the gorgeous MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, our 56 assisted living suites offer residents comfort, safety and wellbeing.  We also have another 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. MorningStar is a private pay community and we do not accept Medicaid.  Please visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living in Santa Fe.     

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

Source: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/how-to-sleep-well-as-you-age.htm

Looking for a New Home for Your Loved One?

Are you and your family beginning the search for senior living and trying to determine the services offered at different communities?  If you live in and around Santa Fe, we want you to know that MorningStar of Santa Fe is worth a look!  

While only open since the beginning of the year, we are not new to senior care.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 with the intention of providing senior living defined by the human touch. As Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger explains, “I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  In addition we have two New Mexico communities that include MorningStar of Albuquerque, and MorningStar of Rio Rancho. 

We truly believe that the more you get to know about our loving home, the more you will discover just how different we are from other senior living communities.  One of those things is that we view seniors as heroes who have gone through a lifetime of trials and tribulations and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.    MorningStar accomplishes this mission by hiring a team of service professionals who have a felt calling to serve and are drawn to the idea of working with seniors.  

This means our staff treats our residents much like they would their own moms and dads and greet residents by their names, learn their preferences, and ask with real interest, about their families.  Our loving team is comprised of people who go the get mile to meet the needs of our residents (even their unexpressed ones), and do the right thing even when no one is watching. After all, our goal is to create a true home for our residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe. (MorningStar of Santa Fe is a private pay community and does not accept Medicaid) 

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.  Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to visit our website for more details about the finest senior living in Santa Fe.

Learn More About MorningStar of Albuquerque

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we regularly have questions about our community from area seniors and their family members.  FAQs include how our pricing is structured as well as availability. In assisted living, fees are based on the level of care a resident requires.  For memory care residents, we offer all-inclusive pricing, which means suite rental and care, whatever the level of need, is one price.  

To calculate your level of need in assisted living, you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director and go over your medical history and personal preferences to create an individualized care plan.  This sets the basis of your Care Level (we have five) and your monthly fee accounts for the costs and time to provide the needed services. These can include help with daily personal care activities (grooming, bathing, toileting, etc.) and medical assistance. 

If you are concerned the cost of assisted living may be too high for your means, we want to remind you that senior housing can be very cost-effective as there are many things you will no longer pay for out-of-pocket.  This includes the costs of your monthly utilities. At MorningStar your monthly fee includes cable TV & utilities, laundry facilities, and three daily meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef. In addition, we have scheduled transportation every week for rides to medical appointments as well as transportation to organized activities and cultural events.  

Assisted living residents also have access to a full-time licensed nurse and our loving 24-hour care staff.  Our wellness programs and activities engage and support our residents’ mental, physical, spiritual and social connections and allow the opportunity to continue to learn and grow.   

MorningStar’s mission is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, and the comfort and wellbeing of our residents are the foremost considerations for everything we do.  Our dedicated team, the heartbeat of our community, delivers service that represents the mission and philosophy of MorningStar Senior Living - honoring God and valuing seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.

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.

Our Community Actively Participates in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we proudly participate in a range of activities and events throughout the year to help raise funds and awareness to end Alzheimer’s disease. Along with other MorningStar communities across the Western U.S., our residents, staff, families and friends join together in honoring the memory-impaired and supporting efforts to eradicate this devastating disease.    

In fact we had a team of walkers and supporters participate in Santa Fe’s “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” that took place on September 28th.  The 5K Walk is the world’s largest event that raises awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. And staff, residents, and family members were enthusiastically there—as walkers, runners, exhibitors and sponsors. Moreover our efforts have paid off as in 2018; our collective MorningStar communities gave $84,909 to the Alzheimer’s Association—in eager search for a cure.

We also celebrated “The Longest Day” on summer solstice this past June with a variety of fundraisers and activities in honor of our memory care residents.  Our “Up and Under a Lavender Sky,” event was a success and carried the heartfelt message of: Up with Awareness; Up with Compassion; and Up with Hope. 

If you and your family are new to our MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we invite you to learn more.  Our 56 assisted living bright suites include spacious studios and one and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 820 square feet).  MorningStar additionally provides 29 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood that are devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  If you are interested, we encourage you to set up a tour to get a firsthand look at the finest senior living in Santa Fe.  

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

Choosing the Best 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 covers scooters for in-house use.    

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. We encourage you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

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

Is Your Loved One Managing Medications Correctly?

It is no wonder that some elderly adults get confused with their medications and often miss doses or take too much of a medication. According to 2010 statistics, “medication usage among elderly patients in the US is eye-opening: more than one-third of prescriptions drugs used in the US are taken by elderly patients; the ambulatory elderly fill between 9-13 prescriptions a year (including new prescriptions and refills).”  In addition the average elderly patient takes more than five prescription medications; and the average nursing home patient takes seven medications.

If your elderly parent is on several medications, do you know if they are managing dosages appropriately?  A quick look in their medicine cabinet or wherever they keep their medications should give you a good idea.  If they have outdated bottles of pills mixed in with current prescriptions or un-opened bags from the pharmacy, chances are they are not doing a good job.  

Experts warn it can be a sensitive topic to broach with your loved one, but if you start slowly, you should be able to help them get things sorted out and organized.  Begin by listing all of the current medications they take including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements and vitamins. Your list should include medicine they take every day and things they use occasionally. 

Now take the list to their pharmacist to see if the combination of what they are taking is safe to do so.  Many drugs can poorly interact with one another or be redundant. Check with their doctor to see if they still need to take a particular drug or is it just getting refilled over and over again.  If it helps, get a new pillbox that better fits their need. There are many choices including color coded and multiple holders. If medication management continues to be a problem, you may need to look into getting more help for your parent.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our goal is to provide one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure residents’ comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers. Please visit our website to learn more and while you are there inquiry about our pricing and availability.   

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 loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to schedule a tour of one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/how-to-help-aging-parents-manage-medications?onepage