Your Loved One’s Transition to an Assisted Living Community

While we recognize the many benefits of senior living communities, any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly a big change for most seniors.  This is why experts have tips to help families support their loved one during the transition.  

A couple of common problems families encounter are a parent feeling abandoned or frustrated by a perceived loss of independence.  Your loved one may also experience problems adjusting to a new routine. They may resent having to downsize and moving from their own home to a smaller apartment.  

Psychologist Dr. Deborah L. Stote explains it will help seniors adjust to their new home if they get encouragement and support from their family during their first days and weeks at the assisted living community.  She says seniors “need positive reassurance that they are moving into a new chapter of their lives, rather than ending the life they have always known.”   However, Dr. Stote cautions families not to do too much “handholding.” Being too protective can be counterproductive and prevent them from trying to make an adjustment to their new home.  

While transitioning to assisted living can be difficult for some seniors, others quickly realize the advantage of no longer having to worry about their homes’ upkeep or needing to prepare their own meals.  Their earlier feelings of resentment or sadness turn into feelings of gratitude as they understand their new home is better equipped to help them maintain their independence and can give them the support and care they need.  

MorningStar at Arcadia offers 80 assisted living suites on three levels, with spacious studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom floor plans. Our Reflections Neighborhood offers 30 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory loss from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related disease.  Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer.  

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: assistedliving.com/helping-elderly-aging-parents-adjust-senior-living-01112013/

Isolated Elders are at Greater Risk of Mental and Physical Decline

A study from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) found that loneliness in aging adults can impact their health and wellbeing and be responsible for accelerating seniors’ decline and death.  They cite that “people 60-years-old and older who reported feeling lonely saw a 45 percent increase in their risk for death.  Isolated elders also had a 59 percent greater risk of mental and physical decline than their more social counterparts.” 

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 28 percent of people 65 years and older (11 million at the time of the census) lived alone.  In addition to living alone, there are several reasons seniors feel lonesome including losing a spouse.   Furthermore, the AARP reports that more and more seniors do not have children, which means fewer family members available to provide companionship and care.  As many elderly people stop driving, they may not have a convenient way to get around and this can contribute to more feelings of isolation.   

Researchers also discovered that isolated seniors often behave in ways that make others less likely to want to spend time with them.  Not only do the seniors resist the efforts of those who want to reach out but actually push them away. 

If you have an elderly parent or know someone who is living alone, there are some easy things you can do to make them feel cared about.  One way is to really engage them in conversation and ask questions and listen to their stories about the past.  Another thing you can do is to help them find a hobby they will enjoy or rekindle an interest in something they used to do.   If you live a distance from an elderly parent, call frequently and send greeting cards or small gifts that let them know you are thinking of them.   

If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks may be your answer.  We provide an ideal place to socialize and form bonds with both residents and staff and all the comforts of a real home.  Please visit 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. 

Source: agingcare.com/Articles/loneliness-in-the-elderly-151549.htm

When to Consider a Memory Care Community

Caring for a parent or a spouse with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is a difficult task.  As the disease progresses, families become concerned about their ability to keep the person well cared for and safe.  For some families, trying to hang on and care for a loved one at home may be creating a situation that is not optimal for the individual or the caregiver.  

Experts say there are signals that more care is needed such as is the person eating regularly and have they lost or gained an unusual amount of weight lately.  Do you suspect the person is missing medication doses or may be taking too much medication? Have they fallen recently? Have you found the burners on the stove left on?  Other warning signs may include aggressive behaviors, wondering, or forgetting where they are when they are out of the home. Neurologist Douglas Scharre, MD, director of the Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that “The main reason to move out of a home to assisted living is when there are not enough resources to safely care for the person with dementia at home.

Another reason for more professional care, and just as important, is caregiver burnout.  Experts explain that you should not feel guilty if caring for your loved one is taking a toll on your own health and wellbeing.  They also suggest the person may be bored at home. Assisted living communities with dedicated memory care have activities geared toward those with dementia, and the person may find comfort in being around those in a similar situation.  

If it is time to look at communities which offer specialized memory care, we suggest MorningStar at Arcadia.  Our loving Phoenix assisted living community has 30 secure suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide individualized memory care. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted living and memory care 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:  caring.com/articles/move-parent-with-dementia-to-assisted-living

Regardless of Your Age, New Year’s Resolutions are Important

Experts explain that New Year’s resolutions are still important for the elderly and can even have a positive impact on their health.  Not only do they offer an opportunity to look forward but they give a person, regardless of their age, real goals and a sense of purpose.

A recent article in the U.S. News & World Report cites a couple of studies that support this belief.  The first study is from Rush University and found “people who view life with a sense of purpose are two to four times less likely to develop Alzheimer's.”  In a similar study by the University, research suggests that highly organized, self-disciplined people may even be less susceptible to Alzheimer's.  Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association “showed that older adults with a solid sense of purpose tend to retain strong hand grips and walking speeds – key indicators of how rapidly people are aging.”  

To help keep your New Year’s resolutions, you should write them down.  Positive affirmations and an optimistic attitude is a great way to begin the year, and that too is most likely beneficial to our health.  Research from Columbia University showed that individuals who are typically enthusiastic and content are less likely to develop heart disease.   

Resolutions can include eating better and excising more, practical solutions such as making your home safer, or following through on your desire to record and preserve your family’s history.  You could also resolve that this will be the year you finally put together a cookbook of family favorite recipes or to create a memory album. If loneliness is a problem, resolve that this is the year you make the point to become more social.  This may even include moving into senior living so you are naturally around more people of your age. 

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we have 56 bright suites for assisted living and 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our community provides entertaining, fun and meaningful activities and programs as well as all the care services you need to live your life to the fullest.  Please visit our website to learn more about luxury 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.  We encourage you to contact us for more information regarding unparalleled senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2018-12-12/why-seniors-should-make-new-years-resolutions

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers Dementia Care Under a “Lavender Sky”

Along with Phoenix assisted living, MorningStar at Arcadia provides 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   

Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch. However most importantly, we embrace hope.  

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan. 

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.  

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted living and memory care 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 Recognizes Good Nutrition is Vital to Seniors’ Health

The National Resource Center on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Aging states that, “1 in 4 older Americans have poor nutrition.”  They explain that malnutrition puts them at risk of becoming overweight or underweight as well as cause weaken muscles and bones.  

Poor nutrition also leaves you more vulnerable to disease and makes it harder to manage the diseases you may already have such as heart disease and diabetes.  An unhealthy diet can even jeopardize a senior’s immune system and make them more susceptible to colds and flus.     

Furthermore, as many seniors experience a decrease in their appetite, they need to increase the nutrient density of their food, not necessarily portion size.  This means eating a well-balanced diet chock-full of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients as well as more fiber. Avoid foods high in processed sugars, saturated and trans fats, and salt.  Eating alone can also decrease a senior’s appetite so make meals a more social occasion and serve foods that taste as good as they look and smell. 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we are committed to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers.  We recognize that good nutrition is vital to seniors’ health, which is why we put such an effort into the food we serve our residents.  Starting with having our own Executive Chef, our meals are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients. In addition, we offer a range of nutritional choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  MorningStar’s chef even uses “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens. Furthermore, meals are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room, which is an ideal setting to socialize and enjoy a meal together.    

Please visit our website for more details on all of the amenities and services offered at MorningStar of Albuquerque.  We suggest you schedule a tour to see our beautiful community in person rather than just relying on our pictures.   

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: healthline.com/health/healthy-eating-for-seniors

Community Living May be a Safer, Healthier Option

Since most assisted living communities offer access to 24-hour personal care, along with nutrition and wellness services targeted specifically for the needs of older adults, they may present healthier, safer options for some seniors so says A Place for Mom.  Residents are able to enjoy healthy social connections as well as peace of mind knowing the support they need to help maintain their independence is available 24/7.  

In fact new research suggests that the support services and programs provided by assisted living communities help seniors to avoid many of the mishaps and problems that are commonplace in the elderly.  One such problem way too common in seniors is failing to take medication as prescribed.  Skipped doses or too much medication can result in deadly consequences. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that up to 55 percent of older adults are “non-complaint” with their prescription drugs orders, and many are hospitalized each year due to adverse reactions.  

Dehydration is another commonplace problem experienced by the elderly.  As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes, which means older adults need to remember to drink even when they are not thirsty. Also some medications may be diuretic, while others cause a person to sweat more, which can result in dehydration.  

In addition, poor nutrition is one more problem many seniors face.  Some research even suggests loneliness is a significant predictor of malnutrition in the elderly.  It can be difficult for older adults who live alone to prepare good, nutritional meals or for their loved ones to supervise daily eating habits.    

MorningStar at Arcadia is committed to be one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers, and we provide the support services and physical environment to help seniors live as comfortably and safely as possible.  All of our assisted living suites are equipped with full handicap-accessible bathrooms. Furthermore, residents are served three, delicious meals a day tailored to the changing health needs of older adults.   Also, we provide 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews, and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. For more information, please see our website.

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 has to offer.

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

The Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

Many seniors are pleasantly surprised to discover that assisted living is not such a “terrible place” after all but rather a true home that offers many benefits.  Several studies also back up this assertion and have found that for many seniors, community living is a healthier, safer and more agreeable alternative to living alone.   

Initially it can be difficult for seniors to leave their familiar family home and often mistakenly think moving into an assisted living community will mean the end of their independence.  Actually, the opposite ends up being true as when a senior receives the proper care he or she needs, they are able to lead a fuller life.   

Another reason some seniors may be reluctant to make the move is they do not realize that assisted living communities of today are not anything like nursing homes.  As a resident of an assisted living community, you not only will have you own private suite but an array of care options and amenities that are designed to provide your utmost comfort and security.    

In many cases assisted living is a much better option than trying to patch together the range of services the senior needs from in-home care providers.  Furthermore, assisted living communities are already set up to accommodate those who may have mobility difficulties, and it can be expensive to retrofit a private home to make it safe enough for a senior with physical limitations.  In addition, senior living communities such as MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks provide 24/7 care and offer assisted living residents as well as their families the peace of mind knowing help is close at hand in an emergency.    

If you are looking for the best assisted living Reno or Sparks offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks “home.” 

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

Things to Consider When Visiting a Loved One in Senior Living

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

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit.  Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game. You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or to start a new one.  If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together. If they love listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together. If they love sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help them get them ready to mail.   If they love to be pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.   

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink.  Bringing the kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will even give the resident some bragging rights long after the grandkids have gone home. However do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.    

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big.  Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community. Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.   

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents but we know they always look forward to seeing their family.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community, our amenities and care services.  

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 contact us for more details on the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Medication-Free Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and up until recently offered few options in terms of treatment.  Typical treatments included prescription drugs to help alleviate symptoms and/or a special device implanted in patients, used to help control tremors.  

However since Parkinson’s affects the whole body, doctors and researchers have been looking at different complementary and alternative methods to treat the many symptoms of the disease.  The U.S. News and World Report published an article describing some of those different methods of treatment.   

As Parkinson’s occurs when dopamine-producing cells in the brain stem die off, doctors say exercise is key to managing some of the effects of Parkinson’s.  Dr. Dean Sutherland, a neurologist and Parkinson’s disease specialist in Sarasota, Florida, explains, “Exercise releases dopamine into the same parts of the brain that are stimulated by taking medication. That helps with motor issues like stiffness, tremors and muscle freezing.”

Other activities that appear to help patients with Parkinson’s Disease include massage therapy to help alleviate stiffness and pain; and acupuncture, which helps some people reduce tremors and also relieves stiff muscles and pain.   Physical therapy appears to help patients improve balance and gait as well as flexibility. There are even programs specifically targeted to Parkinson’s patients that focus on teaching them to take bigger steps to avoid common walking problems such as shuffling.   

In addition, people with Parkinson’s are discovering that alternative treatments such as singing can help improve voice volume, which in turn, can improve their social interactions.  When you can control the volume of your voice to be heard by others, you are more likely to feel comfortable interacting socially. Another thing proving to be helpful to people with balance problems is aqua therapy.  Parkinson’s patients have found that being in the water gives them the freedom to move about without the fear of falling. And finally as swallowing can become difficult for some people with Parkinson’s, swallowing therapy is also recommended.  

MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living community, offers a wide range of care services including physical, occupational, respiratory, speech, and massage therapy.  We offer 80 suites for assisted living and 30 suites dedicated to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  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: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2019-01-11/medication-free-ways-to-treat-parkinsons-disease

MorningStar at Arcadia’s Beautiful Assisted Living Suites

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our goal is to provide one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer.  Starting with a full array of amenities, services and fine dining along with entertaining and enriching activities, we provide residents with a carefree lifestyle.  Whether you are relaxing in our spacious common areas (inside or out) or in your own private suite, you will be proud to call MorningStar at Arcadia home.  

You will find our gorgeous selection of assisted living suites are designed to please the most discerning seniors.  Available in a range of configurations including studios and one- and two-bedroom floorplans (including penthouse suites), each one is ready to move into and just requires your furnishings and personal items to make it feel like home.  Beautifully designed with high ceilings, wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, mini-blinds, and lots of lighting, our suites also offer safety features such as an emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathrooms. To ensure your apartment’s temperature is set for your personal comfort, your suite will have its own heating and a/c system.  

Furthermore, even though we provide delicious, nutritional meals each day, your assisted living suite is equipped with a kitchenette with refrigerator for the times you want to prepare your own snacks or meals.  Housekeeping and laundry and linen services are provided weekly and we do daily spot cleaning and trash removal. Most importantly we have a team of loving caregivers that are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve and consider seniors to be heroes.  

As you can see, MorningStar at Arcadia offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community and to inquiry about availability and pricing.  In addition to assisted living, our Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate, loving memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  

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.

MorningStar of Albuquerque Offers Support to Both Residents and Families

MorningStar of Albuquerque understands you may feel guilty about moving your spouse or parent into assisted living.  If you are the adult child of the senior, you may worry you have let them down by not having them move in with you even though you know your other commitments make it impractical.  Or you may already be the caregiver and realize the job is becoming too big to continue caring for your loved one properly at home.  

If any of this sounds familiar, you need to know you are not alone.  At MorningStar we understand the mixed-emotions that come with such a big lifestyle change.   However just as we are committed to caring for our residents, the MorningStar of Albuquerque staff is there to offer support for the families of our residents.  

Also, when your parent makes their home with us, we are not replacing you in their life, but rather are providing the specialized care they need.  In fact, we think by letting us handle all of the caregiver duties, it frees you up to enjoy the time you do spend with your loved one and to start relaxing together and sharing memories or a laugh.      

Our experience has taught us it is best to introduce the idea of assisted living to your parent or spouse during a time and place when everyone is gathered and feeling relaxed.  Remember a decision does not have to be made all at once but typically it is better to let it come in stages. Sometimes a family worries they may get resistance to the idea but are surprised to find it is something the person has been thinking about for some time.     

Ultimately the decision should be a consensus among family members as well as the senior.  If you have questions or want to talk to someone about it, the MorningStar staff is here for you.  Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living Albuquerque has to offer.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque 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. Call to schedule a visit to the finest senior living Albuquerque NM offers.

A Broad Range of Care Services to Live Life at its Best!

The MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community is a true destination for successful aging.  By defining health and well-being holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit.   Together our Life Enrichment programs and our Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care.  

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health.  These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.     

We are also proud that our assisted living residents benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).  In addition record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand. It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.   

Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, a licensed nurse.  Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7. MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management.  Furthermore we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as pharmacy services, onsite dental and podiatry services and more.    

Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  Our community includes 56 bright suites for assisted living and another 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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, NM.

Independent Living at MorningStar of Sparks

At MorningStar of Sparks, our mission is to provide the best senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer, which includes an independent living option for seniors who seek a streamlined lifestyle free of the responsibility of private home ownership, but without the need of any care services.   

Our 128 spacious private independent living suites are available in several floorplans including one bedroom–one bath, two bedroom–one bath, and two bedroom-two bath configurations.  Each unit has high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, ceiling lighting, and mini blinds as well as private heating & air conditioning controls, basic cable TV, utilities and much more.   All of our independent living suites are equipped with their own washer and dryer and full kitchens so you can prepare meals on your own whenever you like.  Also, we take care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping, which allows our residents plenty of time to pursue their interests.  

As a MorningStar resident, you will get resort-style amenities and lots of services including three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef that are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room.  In addition, a range of convenient services including a full salon offering manicures and pedicures, a spa bath, fitness room, library, and bistro.  For entertainment, residents enjoy our on-site theatre, billiards and game room, and a full calendar of wellness programs and activities.  Other amenities include a fireside patio and all-season porches, strolling paths, full-time licensed nurse and a caring and responsive 24-hour staff. 

MorningStar of Sparks is the perfect place to call “home.”   With beautiful surroundings and a hospitality and care team who feel honored to serve seniors, we have succeeded in creating a life of comfort and community for our residents.  We would love the opportunity to tell you more.   

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.

Looking for Senior Living in Santa Fe, NM?

If you are searching for the finest senior living in the area for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to take a look at our MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community.  Every aspect of our gorgeous home, from the ground up, has been meticulously designed to ensure our residents the utmost comfort, safety and wellbeing.  

Just knowing a loved one is being cared for by the compassionate, loving staff of MorningStar is sure to give you peace of mind.  If it is you who is thinking of making MorningStar your new home, you will be surprised to find that once you get the daily assistance you need, you will not feel as if you lost your independent but rather be better able to lead a full life. As one MorningStar resident writes, “My wife and I were just existing in our former home, but we’re living here at MorningStar. It’s all in how you look at the changes in your life.”

One thing that sets MorningStar of Santa Fe apart from other senior living in the Santa Fe area is the fact that our team consists of the type of people who believe in doing the right thing even when no one is watching.  They are individuals with big hearts who are drawn to the idea of serving seniors. They are also the kind of men and women that understand seniors are true heroes who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.  

If fact our community is not just a place for the elderly to live out their days, but a true home filled with love and laughter.  Along with 5 star dining and a whole list of resort-style amenities, we provide a wide range of care services and wellness programs.  Every day our calendar is filled with fun and meaningful activities that allow residents to expand their mind, enjoy the company of friends, and enhance their health and wellness.  After all when given the opportunity to learn and to contribute, it allows us to shine. Please visit our website to learn more about what the best senior living in Santa Fe, NM looks like!

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 give us a call for more information on luxury senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Try Scrapbooking with Your Elderly Parent

If an elderly parent is in a senior living community and has limited mobility, you may feel it is difficult to think of things to talk about or to do when you visit.  By organizing an activity such as scrapbooking, it can help to keep everyone engaged as well as inspire your loved one to start sharing stories about the “good old days.”  As you start documenting their life story, it will likely bring back memories they may have forgotten and/or ones the rest of the family knows anything about.   

To get started, visit your local craft store or shop on the Internet for scrapbooking supplies that will help you create a book that is uniquely your parent’s.  Your next step is to help gather and organize the photos and materials in chronological order that will go into the scrapbook.   

If the project seems too overwhelming for your parent, have them pick a theme such as family vacations or weddings through the years, or do one that focuses on their childhood and early years.  Before you start to glue things in, take the time to layout the photos and mementos for each page; and most importantly, encourage and enjoy the stories and memories shared by your loved one.   

MorningStar of Sparks is committed to providing seniors with the best senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer.  Along with our resort-style amenities and beautiful private suites, we offer a whole range of wellness programs and activities including many arts and crafts projects.  Visit our website to learn more about availability and pricing.   

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

Organizing Your Elderly Parents’ Paperwork

Many adult children who live a distance away from elderly parents often feel there is not much they can do to help with day-to-day care.  However, one of the things experts suggest that can be done long-distance is to help mom or dad get their paperwork organized.

Initially the job requires more time and energy, but once you have everything gathered together, you will just need to make sure to keep it updated.  In fact, having all of your parents’ pertinent information up-to-date and in one place, will make caregiving long-distance much easier as it allows you to more quickly make decisions and respond to a crisis. 

Paperwork should include maintaining and managing current information about your parent’s health and medical care including the type of medications and the dosage they are taking.  Other important information includes details regarding sources of income and assets, i.e. bank accounts, pensions, life insurance policies, IRAs, 401(k)s and other investments, their home and monthly liabilities. 

To do long-distance, it may be easier to schedule a visit or two to their home to begin the process.  Also, if you do not already know, ask if they have a will, and if so, make sure it is in order.  Furthermore, discuss with them the benefits of drawing up a durable power of attorney, which legally gives the person named on the document the right to handle their financial decisions should the need arise.   

Sometimes older adults can be protective of their financial and personal information.  You will need them to understand that you are not trying to invade their privacy or take over their personal lives but rather want to be prepared to assist in the case of an emergency.   

At MorningStar of Sparks, our goal is to provide the best independent and assisted living Reno or Sparks offers, and we are ready to care for your parent’s physical, intellectual, spiritual and social needs.  Amenities and services include wellness programs and activities, three tasty, daily meals and a staff that feels privileged to serve seniors.  Contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful community.

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.

Doctor Visits for Those with Alzheimer’s Disease

It is important to schedule routine doctor appointments for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease.  The Mayo Clinic explains that checkups ensure health and behavioral issues are regularly addressed and provide tips for caregivers accompanying the person to help them get the most out of the limited time spent with the doctor.  Also they suggest that while your loved one is still able, to have them sign a privacy release form at the doctor’s so their medical condition can be freely shared with you.   

You should try to schedule appointments during the person’s best time of day, and if you can, coordinate it with the doctor’s least busy time.  You should bring along snacks and water as well as an activity you can do together.  If your loved one has been uncooperative about going to the doctor’s in the past, wait and let them know about the appointment that day. 

The Mayo Clinic says the caregiver should prepare a list of things they wish to discuss with the doctor including medication side effects or issues with aggressive behaviors.  Also have a list of medications the person is taking and include over-the-counter medications and other supplements.   If your loved one is in a memory care community, ask the staff about any concerns they would like you to relay to the doctor.   

If a new medication is prescribed, ask questions about the side effects.  Also be ready to answer questions regarding any changes in their memory and mood as well as their diet and sleep habits.  Write down significant information including recommended follow-up appointments with specialists.  Most importantly, if you feel you need help, your doctor is a good source for referrals to various community resources and care providers.   

At MorningStar of Sparks, our mission is to provide the best senior living Reno or Sparks offers, which includes specialized, loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  As dementia care specialists, we consider it our calling, and privilege to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

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.

Health Concerns for Seniors

Statistics indicate we are living longer, and if you do reach the age of 65, you can expect to live on average another nearly 20 years.  Furthermore, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 41 percent of those over the age of 65 reports they are in very good or excellent health.  

Experts recommend that older adults should be aware of chronic health conditions common to seniors and make lifestyle changes that may help stave off those diseases and improve their quality of life.  Some of the things they suggest are to eat a healthy diet, stay physically active, quit smoking and maintain a healthy weight.  

If you are already coping with a chronic medical condition, following those suggestions can help you to better manage your disease as well as improve your quality of life.  Experts also recommend if you do not already have a geriatrician on your healthcare team, to add one, as they have a special understanding of what seniors are going through.  

The three most prevalent diseases affecting older adults in order are arthritis, heart disease and cancer.   The CDC estimates arthritis affects almost 50 percent of all adults over the age of 65, and can cause pain and a lower quality of life.  While the disease can “discourage you from being active, it’s important to work with your doctor to develop a personalized activity plan that, along with other treatment, can help maintain senior health.”

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in adults over the age of 65, and an estimated 37 percent of men and 26 percent of women over 65 are afflicted with chronic heart disease.  Doctors say it is important to exercise, eat well, get a good night’s sleep, and maintain a healthy weight in order to stave off heart disease or to better manage it. 

Cancer is the next most common disease in seniors and the second leading cause of death in adults over the age of 65.  CDC statistics show 28 percent of men and 21 percent of woman over 65 are living with cancer. It is a disease that if caught early, is often treatable so be sure to get routine screening such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and skin checks.   

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

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

Study Shows Those in Senior Communities Require Less Hospitalization

A Place for Mom posted the results of a study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, which was published in the journal, The Gerontologist.  The study focused on “vulnerable” seniors, who were defined as older adults with moderate or low incomes who lived alone. The purpose of the study was to “understand how the senior living environment can mitigate the effects of multiple chronic conditions on hospitalizations.” 

Hospitalization information from participants in the Health Retirement Study was compared with the results of the question, ““Is your home part of a retirement community, senior citizens’ housing or another type of housing that offers services for older adults or someone with a disability?”  Results showed that older adults with multiple chronic conditions in senior living communities were less likely to experience high levels of hospitalization than those who lived alone.  Researchers believe there are positive effects accrued from the various support services available in senior housing environments, which help vulnerable elders to better manage their health conditions.   

At MorningStar of Sparks, our goal is to be the best independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers, and we provide all the services needed to support and enhance our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing.  Services available to residents (depending on lifestyle option) include 24/7 Care Managers, access to licensed nurses, Medication Managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and much more.  In addition, we offer a wide range of wellness programs and activities that are sure to keep you as busy as you like.   

Please visit our website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.”  While you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour.   

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: aplaceformom.com/blog/better-health-lower-levels-of-hospitalization-in-senior-living/