Sixty Percent of Those with Dementia will Wander

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander.  The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home.  Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.  

Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering.  Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.  

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one.  Find out if your area has a” Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times.  Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.  

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and try to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out.  In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out.  You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.   

Along with Phoenix assisted living, MorningStar at Arcadia offers memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood which is a secure environment that encourages residents to safely explore their surroundings.  Our residents can freely move about their neighborhood but we have security features to prevent them from wandering out of our community.  In addition, our dedicated staff is trained to keep residents engaged and safe. Please visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving 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. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sources:

alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering 

agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm

There are Many Fun Ways to Exercise Your Mind

We all know that even as seniors, physical exercise is important to maintaining healthy bodies but medical experts want us to remember that mental exercise is also essential to good brain health.  Luckily there are many fun and entertaining ways to exercise our mind and include an array of games on our tablets or computers as well as ones that only need pen and paper.  Games like Sudoku, mahjong, chess, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and solitaire are enjoyable and challenging ways to improve memory and stimulate the brain.    

Moreover, there is good evidence that supports this claim such as the study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.  The research team conducted a long-term study that found seniors who did crosswords four days a week had a 47 percent lower risk of dementia than those who only did them once a week.  

Also, while there is the perception that chess is only for those who are very intelligent, it turns out the skills used to play a good game of chess are ones we all should cultivate as they may make us smarter.  Experts says chess encourages “concentration and focus around ‘if then’ thinking, which is useful when making decisions.”  The game forces you to think a few steps ahead and that type of thinking can be especially helpful for older people who are navigating options in life and could use a little help with creative thinking.  

The good news is that many of these types of games are free or cost very little and even the Internet offers lots of options.  To play a game of solitaire, you only need a deck of cards but playing on your tablet offers many different varieties of games of which some may be new to you.  Crossword and Sudoku books as well as jigsaw puzzles can be ordered online and are very reasonably priced for the amount of entertainment you get.  They also make great gifts for seniors.  

We want you to know that MorningStar of Albuquerque is safely accepting new residents, and we are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus.  Our community offers 48 beautiful assisted living suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options.  We also have 21 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  If you are looking for the best assisted living Albuquerque NM offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “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 assisted living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

Source: sixtyandme.com/keep-your-brain-buzzing-with-these-free-brain-games-for-seniors/

Brighten the Day of Your Senior Loved One

If you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community and they are isolating themselves from the coronavirus, you probably would love to do something to brighten their day but just not sure how.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Are they a chocolate lover or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   A collection of classic movies is also something many seniors would enjoy.  

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large-print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

If you are looking for outstanding senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be the place for you.  Our beautiful community has 80 stylish assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, 30 secure suites are devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.           

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arcadia, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 Phoenix has to offer.

Tips for Wearing a Face Mask When it is Hot Outside

Now that many States have mandated or strongly recommend wearing a mask inside businesses and outside when unable to maintain social distancing of 6 ft. or more, many worry that mask wearing in the summer heat will be very uncomfortable.   Dr. Michael Bell, deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, warns of the danger you may be putting yourself or others in by not wearing one simply because you don’t want to get hot.  He says, ““To be blunt, to say that you don’t want to wear a mask because it’s hot out even though it protects other people from you is like saying you are making chicken sandwiches for your church group, but you’re not going to cook them through.”

So here are a few tips to help us stay safe.  Dr. Bell say to wear a cloth mask made of natural fabrics such as cotton as it is more breathable, stick to light colors, and avoid synthetic materials.  If it is extremely hot outside, avoiding going out altogether if you can as should anyone with lung disease.  

Another suggestion includes bringing an extra mask or two to put on if the first one becomes sweaty.  Furthermore if you are having trouble breathing, find a shady spot where you can safely distance, and remove your mask until your breathing normalizes.  Experts say if you are still feeling too hot, try using a thinner mask, or when you are able to maintain a safe distance from others, loosen it slightly on your face.  

At MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we want current and incoming residents as well as their families and our team members to know we are doing everything we can to protect all those beneath our roof.  Despite the hardship and sorrows of major disruptions like COVID-19, they often give rise to innovations such as Electrostatic Disinfecting Technology, which we have now added to our rigorous protocols.  While harmless to residents and staff, it is deadly against infectious disease.      

Our pueblo-styled community offers 56 bright suites for assisted living with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, we have 29 secure suites devoted to providing individualized care. Please visit our website to set up a tour or to request information on pricing and availability.   

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 to learn more about the finest senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.  

Source: usnews.com/health-care/conditions/articles/how-to-wear-a-face-mask-safely-and-comfortably-in-summer?int=hp_conditions_health 

Its Never to Late for Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that heart disease is still the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.  However, according to the Heart Association, it is never too late to adopt certain lifestyle changes that can significantly improve your risk for heart disease.  

As older adults’ metabolism slows along with their appetites, it is especially important that the food they do eat is healthy.  Nutritionists recommend seniors avoid heavily processed foods and those high in saturated fats, sugars and salt.  Optimally your diet should include healthy fats such as those found in fish, nuts, and avocados, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.  Fiber has also been shown to lower blood cholesterol and fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegies, beans, whole grains and cereals, and nuts.  In addition, buying organic foods keep us from ingesting unnecessary and potentially harmful things like animal hormones, fertilizers, and other types of chemicals.  

Other lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk of heart disease are quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and lowering your blood pressure.   A heart healthy lifestyle must also include daily exercise and even a few minutes a day can be beneficial.  If it has been a while since you have exercised, check with your doctor and start slowly.  The Heart Association cites research that indicates 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and keep your weight at a healthy level.

Committed to provide the best senior living Phoenix has to offer, MorningStar at Arcadia provides residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Our meals, prepared by our own Executive Chef, are both tasty as well as healthy.   While we had to suspend group exercise classes due to the coronavirus, as the nation slowly reopens, MorningStar is carefully following suit with Arizona’s phasing and pacing. Please see our website for more information.

Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercises.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arcadia, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 Phoenix has to offer.

Introducing Our New Virtual Assistant

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, our goal is to provide residents with a true home designed for their comfort, wellbeing and security.  In order to effectively reach all Santa Fe area families looking into assisted living and memory care in a timely fashion, we have added a Virtual Assistant to our website.  

The Virtual Assistant service lets you learn more about our communities: Pricing, Request a Tour, Ask a Question, See Our Floor Plans, View Virtual Tour, or make a Job Inquiry.  You can ask if there is anyone available to talk to at the time of your request or just send a message.  If you simply wish to inquire about pricing and availability, you can also use our website link, just give us your name, email address, topic of interest and send along your message.  We will happily get back to you within 24 hours.

To get you started, here are a few answers to frequently asked questions: residents of MorningStar of Santa Fe must be at least 62 years old, and yes couples are welcome to move in together and share the same suite.  In addition we welcome Companion Living, which is two unrelated people of the same sex sharing a suite in either assisted living or memory care. The benefits of Companion Living are not only the cost-savings but you can both look out for one another.  

We are often asked if someone can move in who is not in need of assisted living services, and the answer is yes.  MorningStar of Santa Fe provides a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals you no longer need to cook.  We also give you peace of mind knowing that extended care is close by if the need ever arises.  

Our remarkable residents and their families know they can trust the compassionate, dedicated MorningStar of Santa Fe team to deliver the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.  Please visit our website to use our new Virtual Assistant or give us a call.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

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 information on compassionate senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Calming a Loved One with Alzheimer's Disease

People with Alzheimer’s disease may express feelings of agitation and anxiety, which can be caused by the frustration that comes with the inability to get others to understand what they need.  However, experts say there are some tips to help circumvent or prevent getting into situations that can become emotionally charged.     

If you feel the person is starting to feel anxious, it could be the environment they are in.  If this is the case, remove them to a quieter place and encourage them to rest or use soothing rituals that have worked in the past.  Often a noisy room including having a TV on can act as just such a trigger.  If that is not the problem, check to make sure the person is physically okay and that they are not hungry, thirsty or need to use the bathroom.  Also, make sure they are not too hot or cold.  If they are still able to communicate, get down to their eye level and ask them in simple words to tell you what they need.  Another approach is to distract them by taking a walk or putting on music and encouraging them to dance.  

While trying to calm the person down, make sure you do not raise your voice.  Remain speaking in a calm voice and give the person the time to try and express the problem.   If you feel the person is experiencing lots of periods of anxiety and agitation, it is a good idea to discuss it with their health care provider.  Also, make sure you have a good support system to share your experiences with and perhaps learn something from other caregivers.  

At MorningStar of Sparks, our mission is to provide the best senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer, which includes loving and compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia diseases.  We take a holistic approach to memory care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website to learn more about what a specialized care plan can do for your loved one.  

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 learn more about the finest senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/anxiety-agitation

Looking for Exceptional Assisted Living in Albuquerque?

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer. Located on the northeast side of town between Paseo del Norte and Palomas, MorningStar of Albuquerque offers wonderful mountain views and is convenient to banks, medical facilities, shopping and other services.

We always suggest that interested families contact us by phone or email, but as a way to get you started; our website contains lots of information about our community as well as more general information.  Among our Family Resources, which include a Decision Guide and information on Affordability and Veterans, we also provide a comprehensive FAQs section.        

Here you will read about our unique brand of “senior loving homes” as well as learn a little something about our mission.  We explain how it is our privilege - our calling, to love all those beneath our roof, which starts by hiring team members with servants’ hearts who are drawn to the idea of working with seniors.  In addition, our service is guided by Radiance, and designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.  

Within our FAQs, you will also find answers explaining what assisted living is, the type of services we offer, and how your level of care is determined (it is based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director).  This information allows us to set up a customized care plan that is reviewed periodically to keep up with any changing health needs.  

Finally, we want you to know we have made many changes in our community to keep both residents and team members safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.  As the nation reopens, we are judiciously following New Mexico’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing.   We continue to stay abreast of developments and evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque proudly provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque NM offers.     

Walking is an Effective, Inexpensive Exercise

The Arthritis Foundation says that walking is an excellent aerobic exercise that is easy on the joints and easy to do.  There is no need to drive to the gym or to buy special equipment but rather just lace up your most supportive walking shoes and hit the road. 

Experts say that walking offers several benefits such as improving the heart rate, lowing blood pressure and strengthening the heart.  A study from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston found that “women who walk 30 minutes a day may reduce their risk of stroke by 20% and by 40% when they step up their pace.”  They also found that post-menopausal women who walk one to two miles a day can lower their blood pressure by nearly 11 points in 24 weeks.     

If you have started walking as a way to help you lose weight and don’t see results yet, keep in mind that walking at a brisk pace burns approximately 200 calories in just 30 minutes, and that adds up over time.  In fact a study out of the University of Tennessee found that women who walk had less body fat than their counterparts who didn’t walk.  

Walking especially offers benefits for seniors such as strengthening muscles, which in turn support the joints.  Stronger muscles in the legs and abdomen reduce the stress we put on our joints, and also help with balance thus reducing our risk for falls.  Movement such as walking circulates the joint fluid and sends nutrients and oxygen to the joint cartilage. 

Another bonus of walking according to Michael A. Schwartz, MD, of Plancher Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in New York, is it can stop the loss of bone mass for those with osteoporosis.  In post-menopausal women, just 30 minutes of walking each day reduced the risk of hip fractures by 40%.  Other benefits of walking for older adults appear to include a slowing of cognitive decline, improved sleep and a longer life.  

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 housing in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: 

arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/walking/12-benefits-of-walking

As You Age, Heat-related Illness is More Likely

While beautiful, summers in Phoenix are hot and sunny with temperatures typically over 100 degrees so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated. In fact, a recent research brief by Climate Central found that 12,000 people in the US die annually from heat-related causes, and more than 80% of them are over 60 years old.

Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature.  When older people heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features.  Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun.   

Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.  Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out.  Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems.  Furthermore, it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease.   

Diet can also play a role in becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided.  If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.

For exceptional senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia offers residents a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  Our deliciously prepared meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage.  Please visit our website for more details and contact information.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arcadia, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 Phoenix has to offer.

Sources: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html, 

aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/tips-to-avoid-heat-stroke/

Looking for Assisted Living for Your Parent in the Reno Area?

If your parent lives alone and you are worried that they need more personal daily care than you can provide, it may be time to look into other options.  One of those is assisted living, which focuses on providing residents the daily care they need to help them retain their independence.       

Especially now, you want to judiciously make the best, safest choice for your mom or dad.  To help you do so, experts offer a few suggestions of things to think about before you begin your search (obviously you want to respect mom or dad’s preferences and wishes).  They recommend that while you take into account your parent’s immediate needs, you also give some thought to their future needs.  So find out if the home you are thinking about will be somewhere they can "age in place” and/or if there are limitations in terms of how much care the community provides.  

Your questions should include the level of care services they are licensed for as well as their limitations.  For instance, at MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks our licensing provides us with a range of available care services that makes it possible for us to extend the stay of residents even as health conditions change. 

Unless a resident requires round-the-clock nursing (including the management of acute pain), MorningStar is honored, with the partnership of a hospice agency, to care for a resident through end-of-life.  In addition, as a licensed “Directed Level of Care” community, we care for residents within a secure environment (memory care) who, due to compromised cognitive ability, cannot recognize danger and, therefore, cannot respond appropriately and/or cannot express their needs.  

If you are considering assisted living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our exceptional community.    We are a true home where the residents are heroes who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect; and MorningStar families know they can trust their loved ones to us.

While we know there are a lot of worrisome stories in the news about COVID-19 among senior living communities, MorningStar of Sparks wants potential families to understand that the care of those beneath our roof is our utmost priority.  To that end we are following protocols - in some cases exceeding them - set forth by the CDC and other organizations in our fight against the virus; and are confident in our ability to safely accept new residents.   

MorningStar of Sparks proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers.

Comfortable Independent Living at MorningStar of Sparks

Isn’t it about time you got a break from the never-ending chores and headaches of home ownership?  If you are like most homeowners, just about when you think you have fixed or replaced anything that can go wrong, something else breaks.  Also wouldn’t it be nice to no longer have to worry about lawn care, snow shoveling and raking all those leaves?  MorningStar of Sparks offers a break from all of that with carefree independent living in a quiet neighborhood that is convenient to shopping and other services.

For luxury senior living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks is sure to please.  Our independent living community is designed for seniors who seek a lifestyle free of the responsibility of private home ownership, but without the need of any care services. We offer seniors a beautiful community where they can enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, security and wellness in their retirement years. 

As an independent living resident, you will enjoy predictable budgeting as all utilities including cable TV are in your monthly fee as well as three delicious daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef.  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.  For your safety, suites have full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  In addition, as a resident of the community you have access to all onsite amenities including a bistro, fitness room, and chapel/theater. 

Along with independent living, MorningStar of Sparks also offers assisted living and memory care; and we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our community, our philosophy and our commitment to serving others.  As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, our mission statement includes honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well. 

We also want you to know that during the coronavirus pandemic, MorningStar of Sparks’ highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are still accepting new residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. 

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 learn more about the finest senior living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Too Much TV Watching is Not Healthy for Seniors

While it may feel relaxing to sit and watch TV right before bed, several studies have shown that watching too much TV before sleep can interfere with a good night’s sleep.  Instead of winding us down like we think it is doing, it turns out too much TV ends up stimulating brain activity and firing up the brain causing a restless, interrupted night’s sleep.  Moreover a restless night can result in getting less than the prescribed 7 or 8 hours recommended by doctors and leave us in a sleep deficit, which is especially bad for seniors.  

Researchers have discovered other problems with older adults watching too much TV.  According to the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, developed by the National Cancer Institute, it found a correlation between seniors who watched 5 or more hours of TV a day and a loss of mobility.   The study was comprised of 340,000 men and 226,000 women between the ages of 50 and 71 from six states and two US metropolitan areas.  “After performing a multivariable logistic regression analysis and adjusting for factors known to increase the risk of mobility disability, the researchers found that ‘greater TV time was significantly related to increased disability within all levels of physical activity’.”   Another negative linked to watching 3.5 hours or more of TV each day was a decrease in verbal memory.

Both of these problems could be due to a number of reasons including the fact that if someone is watching that much TV every day they are not doing other healthier activities.  Researchers explain the TV in itself may not be that bad but the sedentary nature of TV watching and the fact that the person is not doing other things like playing board games; reading, socializing with friends, or engaging in a hobby may be just as problematic.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Reno. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319170

Be More Effective Communicating with a Loved One with Dementia

If you have a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, you probably have felt at times like you were not getting through to them.  While communicating with someone suffering from Alzheimer’s is not always easy, we have a few tips to help make it more effective.  

Colleen Kavanaugh, a Certified Dementia Practitioner & Certified Dementia Communications Specialist, offers “a few tricks to have up your sleeve” that may help lessen irritation and calm and soothe more quickly.  For instance, if you want to get the person dressed, Kavanaugh suggests you take a few moments to connect with the person.  Get down to eye level so they can look directly into your face, speak slowly and ask a simple question such as “how is your day?”  Once you have their attention, let them know the tasks at hand.

Another thing to remember is to keep your instructions simple.  Ask if they would like to do a particular task such as brushing their hair; and then put the brush in their hand and using your hand, guide the first couple of brush strokes.  Do the same thing with brushing their teeth, etc.  Make sure to talk soothingly and let them know how well they are doing.     

Strategies to try to calm the person when they are frustrated or angry include also getting down to their level, taking their hand and calmly letting them know you are there to help.  Give them time to respond but if they are unable to express themselves and you cannot determine what they need, slowly distract.  Show them pictures of family members or talk about things you are going to do together.  Above all avoid criticizing or arguing.   

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we offer unsurpassed senior living in Phoenix with 80 beautiful, well-designed assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, we have 30 secure memory care suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, which are staffed by a team of dementia care specialists who truly understand the disease.  Please visit our website to read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into our loving community.    

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Source: seniorlink.com/blog/communicating-with-dementia

Ways to Stay Connected to Your Grandchildren

Even without a worldwide pandemic going on around us, many of us live a distance away from our grandkids and we may only get the chance to see them once or twice a year.  While long-distance relationships can be tough and make it hard to feel connected, you do not have to resign your to being left out of your grandkids’ lives just because of proximity.  

There are several good ideas to help you stay connected even when you are not there in person such as facetime or skype video calls. For little ones who can get restless pretty quickly, be ready to read a picture book, sing songs or tell silly stories.  Along with calls for birthdays and holidays, be sure to do it often enough so you keep up with their quickly changing developmental milestones.  If they are older, play games together, discuss a shared hobby, exchange jokes and riddles, ask questions, and then really listen.  

Another way to stay connected is to start a family facebook page.  This is an easy, inexpensive way for any family member to post current pictures and to share day-to-day news as well as significant events.  It also lets other members add comments.  Also do not forget about snail mail.  Kids love receiving mail and answering you back is a good way to get them to practice the art of letter writing.  

For grandkids who live close by and were used to seeing you several times a week, they may be wondering when they will see you again in person now that you are social distancing.  Experts suggest you talk honestly to your grandchildren about the separation and keep reminding them it is only temporary.   Tell them you have not forgotten them and that you will keep calling and they can keep calling you.  

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.  For more details on the finest senior housing in Santa Fe, MN, please visit our website.  

Seniors are at Higher Risk for Dehydration

Now that summer is here seniors need to remember to stay hydrated as the temperatures warm up.  There are several reasons why the elderly are more at risk for dehydration starting with the fact that as we age, our sense of thirst diminishes so we may forget to drink.  In addition, medications commonly prescribed to seniors such as diuretics, antipsychotics and corticosteroids can affect a senior’s ability to maintain fluids.  Also, our bodies do not conserve fluids as well as when we were younger.  Lastly it can be difficult for older adults to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, which may cause them to overheat quicker.   

Dehydration can also occur in individuals with dementia as the disease causes them to forget to eat and drink, and in the more advanced stages, many people have trouble swallowing.  Furthermore, seniors with incontinent problems sometimes purposely limit their fluid intake as a way to avoid accidents.    

Whatever the reason, dehydration can lead to serious health problems and as the outside temperatures soar, seniors must take care.  Experts recommend seniors get about 64 ounces of fluids a day, and in hot and humid weather or any changes in medical conditions or medications, you may need to drink even more. 

To make it easier to drink more water, try mixing in a little juice or fruit or add a flavored water enhancer.  Other types of foods that help increase your fluid intake include savory broths, fruits such as watermelon, grapes, oranges and cantaloupe, smoothies, and herbal iced teas.           

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our goal is to provide the best memory care and assisted living Albuquerque offers, and we understand the need for seniors to take extra care during the summer months.  Our excellent food service is comprised of lots of fresh foods and healthy, refreshing beverages.  Please see our website for more information about our community as well as our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members.

MorningStar of Albuquerque proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

You're Never Too Old for Sun Protection

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

Doctors recommend that seniors avoid exposure to the sun during peak times (from 10 am to 4 pm) and to remember that the sun’s UV rays are still potent even on cloudy days.   Also be sure to wear sunscreen choosing a cream or lotion that is broad spectrum (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) of SPF 30 every day.  If you plan to be at the beach or to play golf, wear SPF of 50 or higher.  Be sure to reapply every 1½ to two hours.

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

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, we provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 80 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations, including studio and one and two-bedroom floor plans, to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   We provide another 30 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19).

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

What to Expect from Occupational Therapy

As we age, we can experience health issues such as a stroke or other disabilities that may benefit from the services of an occupational therapist (OTs).  When asked, many people have no idea what an OT does; while others think they help individuals find work.  Actually an OT may be an instrumental part of your healthcare team who will work with you to facilitate your best recovery.  If you are wondering what the difference is between a physical therapist (PT) and an OT, a PT focuses on restoring or improving movement, strength, and range of motion; while an OT works on improving the motor skills you need to perform daily tasks. 

If a loved one has suffered from a stroke, they may have lost the ability to perform tasks known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which include bathing, toileting, dressing, eating grooming, etc.  The job of the OT is to teach the person how to carry out daily, functional activities despite the impairment in order to improve quality of life and maximize independence. 

For instance if the stroke caused damage to one side of the body, an OT focuses on therapies that promote motor recovery.  One common intervention is to limit or constrain the person’s movement on the unaffected arm, while having them use the affected arm to do repetitive or functional tasks.  OTs may also recommend special equipment to improve their patients’ lives such as a wheelchair, walker, electric can opener or toothbrush, a special keyboard for the computer, or eating aids and then teach the person to use them.   

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we provide a wide range of amenities, wellness programs and activities, and care services to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of our remarkable residents.  In addition if one of our residents requires OT, PT or other auxiliary services, we have trusted partners we will recommend.  Please visit our website for further information, and email us regarding pricing and availability.  

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

Do You Want to Improve Your Health?

No matter what our age, there are some relatively easy things we can all do to improve our health.   One of those suggestions is to develop the habit of eating more slowly.  While it sounds like a simple thing, it actually offers a couple of health benefits.  It gives our brain the chance to signal we are full, which can help prevent overeating as well as gives us additional time to think about what we are eating and maybe make better choices.  

Another easy change is to get in the habit of eating fresh fruit rather than drinking fruit juice as even 100% pure juice loses some of its nutrients once it is processed.  Eating fresh fruits are low in fat, sodium and calories and are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and folic acid.  Also, fresh fruit fills you up more than juice.  Some other recommendations include adding dark leafy greens to your diet and cutting back on sugar.  

Also, experts advise watching the fat in your diet.  Avoid trans fats that have been related to heart disease but remember some fats found in foods such as whole eggs, fish, avocados, nuts and dairy are part of a balanced diet.  Doctors additionally say an alcoholic drink (one at most for women and two at most for men) a day may provide benefits for your heart.  

Other ideas for improving health include reducing our level of stress.  Experts say that regardless of what seems to trigger stress; not dealing with it can lead to a variety of serious health conditions including ulcers, heart disease and high blood pressure.   Exercising is not only an excellent way to reduce stress but is good for our bodies, and no matter how old we are, we need to keep moving.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living community, we provide healthy, nutritional meals as well as care services and amenities to ensure carefree retirement years.  Please see our website for more information.  While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

Offering a Broad Range of Care Services

The MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community is designed to allow our residents to comfortably and safely age in place.  By offering luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a broad range of care services, we support the whole person – mind body and spirit.  Our holistic approach to successful senior living is accomplished through a balance of Life Enrichment and Wellness Care.    

We consider it part of our job to find creative solutions that can extend the stay of our residents even when their health conditions change, and often are able to give them a quality of care at a lower cost to families.  For assisted living residents, an individualized care plan is determined (based on five levels of care) after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the resident and their family.  

Along with our in-house care services, which include around-the-clock care managers and access to a licensed nurse on-site/on-call 24/7; we also refer families to home health and out-patient therapy services.  These are third-party providers we know and trust who bring additional services to our residents in the form of skilled medical professionals, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and others.     

In addition our home provides respite care (short-term care) to area seniors who need a temporary place to recover from surgery or other health issues.  Respite care can also be a great way to “try out” senior living and see if it is a good fit.  Another way respite care is used is to give a caregiver a break from the on-going stress of caregiving.   

To learn more about all-inclusive senior living in Santa Fe, NM, we encourage you to visit our website for contact information as well as pricing and availability.  In regards to COVID-19, we are confidence in our protocols for accepting new residents and in keeping all those beneath our roof safe.   

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