The Move to a Senior Living Community

MorningStar of Santa Fe is one of the premier senior living communities in the area and provides the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.  Located on the city’s west side and ideally situated for mountain views, our gorgeous community provides an extensive range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more.   

When a loved one needs more care than they can get in their own home, it may be time to start thinking about a move to assisted living.  If your family is new to the concept of senior living and all it means, please know that MorningStar will work with you each step of the way to help you make informed decisions, and make the eventual move-in process easier.  

To start with, we understand that for your parent or elderly relative, the move is a major lifestyle transition, which is why we approach each move-in with great sensitivity.  One way we do this is to try and nurture a relationship from the start that reinforces the positive aspects of community life and tries to help the person envision the many possibilities of a new adventure.  

Once your family puts down a deposit to secure a chosen suite, our “House to Home” plan goes into full swing.  This starts by collecting pertinent information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move-in including a medical assessment and physician’s care plan for each new assisted living and memory care resident.     

On a more practical level, we offer packing tips including what items are most important to bring such as furnishings and personal belongings that are most significant emotionally, nostalgically as well as functionally.  We want the resident’s new “home” to bring them comfort and joy, which is why we suggest if possible, furnishings should be arranged similar to their prior residence.  Keep in mind; it is especially helpful to those with low vision or cognitive impairment.     

This is just a start of the on-going support we extend to new residents and their families.  We are ready to answer any questions you may have and direct you to our website for contact information as well as other pertinent details.  MorningStar of Santa Fe’s entire team is engaged in finding ways to build a true family, one loving relationship at a time. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

The Benefits of Walking for Exercise

A study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking.  Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.  

The 2½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail.  The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises.  The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.  

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.”  The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.  

Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes.  If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.  Along with our fitness room, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Phoenix offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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 the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix offers.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

Discover the Many Benefits of Assisted Living

Assisted living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support.  For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments.  Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.  

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones.  In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute.  In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.    

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque offers.  

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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque NM offers.

See Our Website for More Information About MorningStar of Santa Fe

If you are looking for the best senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar of Santa Fe.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our 56 private assisted living suites and 29 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.  

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including gathering spaces, dining rooms, bistro, theater, fitness room, salon and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, COVID-19; and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, available and any other questions you may have.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Why it's Important to be Evaluated for Alzheimer's Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also, they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition, recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

Along with assisted living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia provides loving memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Beginning with compassionate caregivers to activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 senior living Phoenix offers.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Seniors Too Often Fall Prey to Financial Scams

Each year millions of elderly seniors fall prey to ruthless schemes that rob them of their money and identity.  The sad part is it is often a result of a senior’s trusting nature or feelings of isolation and loneliness; or in some cases, a senior may have cognitive issues that impair their judgement and decision-making skills.   

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite and agreeable to others, which in turn can make them more susceptible to fraud. Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger.  

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) updates the public to current scams targeting seniors so if you have a parent or other elderly loved ones who may be at risk, take a look at the info and discuss the various schemes used with them.  One scam frequently used is a phone call, email or in-person approach to collect money for disaster relief.  Thieves also scam those who have been the victim of a disaster by trying to collect personal information under the guise of providing some sort of financial relief.   

The NCOA says there are ways to avoid getting scammed such as never giving out your personal information to anyone but a trusted family member, friend or your professional financial advisor.  In addition, never make big financial decisions without consulting with one of those trusted people.  Also do not give out personal PIN #s, or Medicare and other financial info over the phone unless you initiated the call or know the person.  

Other commonsense advice includes being wary of high-pressure sales persons, never signing a contract until you understand it entirely, and to be suspicious of unexpected announcements of winning money, trips, or other prizes.  Experts say it is most likely a hoax.  Always take your time when making financial decisions and do not give blanket approval to a vendor for medical equipment and other purchases.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: ncoa.org/economic-security/money-management/scams-security/protection-from-scams/

Looking for Assisted Living in Santa Fe, NM?

Looking for the best senior living Santa Fe, NM offers? MorningStar of Santa Fe provides residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Our adobe-style residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out and includes a courtyard with majestic mountain views and a cozy kiva fireplace, sunroom, chapel/theatre, and library.  Chef prepared meals are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room with an open kitchen.

However, our stylish design does not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including high-end finishes, lots of lighting, spacious closets, high ceilings, and large windows as well as a kitchenette with refrigerator.   For residents’ peace of mind and safety, our suites are also equipped with an emergency call system to ensure help is there if the need arises as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  

All assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with the Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more). Access to a licensed nurse is available onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock.  We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically re-evaluate care plans and make changes as needed.   

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

At the heart of our community, and what we are most proud of, is our team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve.  Please visit our website for contact information.  We are happy to answer any questions and look forward to hearing from you.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia

If you are looking for the best senior living Phoenix offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar at Arcadia.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our home, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our 80 private assisted living suites and 30 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations (including penthouse suites), and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.  

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including the fireside courtyard, dining rooms, library, theater, fitness room, salon and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, COVID-19 protocols; and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, available and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

What Sets MorningStar Apart from Other Area Senior Living Communities?

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior living in Santa Fe, you know there are a number of options.  This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?   

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care.  If you are a senior who needs a little help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living your life to the fullest.  In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to Licensed nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more.  They also provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of programming, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care.  The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and even meals suitable for each resident.  

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community, we offer all of that and more with our wide range of services and amenities.  While only open for a couple of years now, we have quickly earned a reputation as one of the leading senior living communities in the area and believe it is due in part to our team of extraordinary individuals who feel called to serve.     

Please visit our website for more information regarding availability and pricing and to set up a tour.  Also we want you to know as a new resident, you will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.     

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

Learn More About MorningStar of Albuquerque

Rather than diminish a senior’s life, assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways.  Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for.  

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat.  Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion.  Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more.  

Moreover, as the CDC reports that each year about 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.   

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque area families trust MorningStar to compassionately care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness.

Located on the northeast side of town between Paseo del Norte and Palomas, our community has wonderful mountain views and is convenient for shopping and other services.  Please visit our website for more information and to take a virtual tour of our beautiful community. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “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. If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Specialized, Loving Memory Care at MorningStar's Phoenix Community

Are you the adult child or spouse of someone who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia we understand the anguish and heartache that families go through seeing their beloved mom, dad, or spouse change before their eyes.  

If the diagnosis is recent, you are most likely wrestling with lots of questions including what will the future bring and who will be there to provide the level of care the person will probably need.  We hear you and want you to know our experienced team is here to help with holistic memory care that focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss.  

As dementia care experts, we provide specialized, individualized care to each resident and are equipped to care for the person from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Our Reflections Neighborhood was designed from the ground up to give residents the freedom to safely explore their surroundings.  Secure private suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  

Every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar family, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities.  Visit our website for contact information and give us a call, email, or use our Virtual Assistant for immediate help.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arcadia, “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 outstanding assisted living and memory care in Phoenix.

Ever Wonder Why Our Hair Turns Gray?

While some people seem to not turn gray until an advanced age, most of us see our first gray hair sometime in our thirties.  Experts say in time, everyone’s hair will turn gray, and with each decade after age 30, your chance of going gray increases by 10 to 20 percent.  For those blessed with a very long lifespan, their hair will most-likely go completely white. 

The process is gradual as each strand of hair a follicle produces remains the same color it starts out as.  For instance a strand of blond hair stays blonde regardless of how long it grows (we typically keep a strand for up to 3 ½ years).  Gray hair and eventually white hair is caused as our follicles produce less and less color as we age.  

However not all gray hair is a result of “age-related graying.”  In some cases, experts say stress may play a role in how quickly someone grays.  However they point out that most likely it is not the stress itself that makes hair go gray but rather it triggers “a common condition called telogen effluvium, which causes hair to shed about three times faster than normal.”   So if you are the right age, many of the new hairs that grow in may be gray.   

When very young people start to turn gray, it can be a cause for concern.  Premature hair graying (PHG) can be from a vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid disease, or smoking as well as vitiligo, which causes melanocytes (cells at the base of hair follicles that produce the hair’s color) to be lost or destroyed.  Still researchers say turning gray is mostly influenced by the genes we inherit from our parents and we can get a better idea of when we will turn gray by looking at past generations.    

The MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community knows the best care starts from the heart.  Our loving home promotes a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community and offers an array of comprehensive care services and amenities.  From scheduled transportation, 5-Star dining to routine care planning reviews, activities and wellness programs, we are building a MorningStar family.  Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living in Santa Fe including suite availability, pricing, and our company’s philosophy.  

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 about the most compassionate senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Source: 

aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/causes-gray-hair.html?intcmp=HEA-HL-FEED

Caring for a Pet Can Lift Your Spirits and Decrease Stress

Research has shown that having a pet can improve our mental health, cardiovascular health and PTSD symptoms.  In fact, even if you do not own a pet but just spend some time interacting with animals, it can lift your spirits and decrease stress.  Also, during times of isolation and uncertainty, many of us feel our pets are more important than ever.   

The great thing about pets is they offer unconditional love and loyal companionship.   Caring for an animal can be a welcome distraction from life’s other worries and can provide more meaning to our life.  Moreover, how can you feel upset or angry when sitting with a cat on your lap and hearing the relaxing, melodious sound of their purr?  Research has shown that an act as simple as petting a dog or cat has been shown to reduce stress and help regulate our mood.   

Many people believe their pet has the ability to pick up on their emotions and know when they are sad or stressed and need a little “extra love.”   In addition, dogs need exercise so many dog owners are motivated to get outside and exercise, which is always a good thing.  However, experts caution that before you rush out and adopt an animal that you think about how much time you have to care for one, and do you have the money to pay for the extra expenses.  Also, if your choice is a dog, are you physically able to provide the animal with the daily exercise they need?  

MorningStar of Albuquerque is dedicated to providing the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers, with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We understand how important our residents’ furry friends are to them, which is why we are pet friendly. Our beautiful community has 48 assisted living suites, and another 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “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. If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Assisted Living Community Versus a Nursing Home, What’s the Difference?

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living community knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Sparks have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary in size and number of bedrooms, all of our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, large windows and both natural and overhead lighting. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.

MorningStar of Sparks offers the kind of senior living area families have come to count on. In addition to offering Greater Reno assisted living, we have 128 bright suites for independent living and another 32 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please see our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care 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 see for yourself our exceptional community.

Unsurpassed Independent Living in The Reno Area

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks is a step above the rest. Our gorgeous community is located in the attractive Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs and offers all of the amenities and services you need to live life to the fullest. Moreover, our range of housing options including independent living, assisted living and memory care.

For stress-free living and a refreshing change of lifestyle, MorningStar of Sparks has it all. With 128 stylish suites for independent living, we provide seniors with carefree, comfortable retirement years. Our community offers smartly-designed private suites 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.

In addition, the MorningStar of Sparks’ community has beautifully-appointed, warm and inviting common areas where residents can comfortably gather and enjoy the day. Even our outdoor area is inviting with a fireside patio and all-season porches. When you visit our website, we encourage you to take a look at our Virtual Tour to get an idea of what our community looks like.

Another thing you will appreciate about MorningStar of Sparks’ independent living is the freedom from costly, unexpected home repairs and on-going maintenance. Instead you will love the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living. Also, you will know where you stand financially with a predictable budget as virtually all of your living expenses (including homeowner’s insurance and property tax) are controlled through the bundled Monthly Rental Fee.

You also get peace of mind knowing that if you are in one of our independent living suites and found yourself in a position where you need care with the tasks of daily living, your request for an assisted living suite will be prioritized. Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful senior living 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.  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 offers.

Common Myths about Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is what 90% of Americans with the disease have.  In Feb, 2020, the CDC reported 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes; and 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. With such a prevalence of the disease, the Medical News Today website explores some common myths surrounding the cause and treatment of the disease.  

One common misconception about type 2 diabetes is that it is caused by eating too much sugar.  While not strictly true, diabetes can be a result of a poor diet that includes too much sugar and leads to obesity, which is a risk factor for the disease.  However, to complicate the case, doctors do say there is evidence that suggests a high consumption of soda pop is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, although they are not sure why.  

There is also concern that too many people think diabetes is not a serious disease.  This thinking can lead to someone not managing the disease as they should, and result in dangerous complications.  Another myth is that obesity always causes diabetes.   Again medical professionals say while being overweight and obese are risk factor, the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistic Report, 2020, says “11% of people with type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are neither overweight nor obese.” 

Managing the disease well plays a huge role in outcomes.  For those who follow a good diet, maintain a healthy weight, control their blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and stay physically active, they can usually avoid dangerous complications.  Doctors also say by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, it is not inevitable that those with prediabetes have to develop type 2 diabetes.  

At the MorningStar at Arcadia senior living community, we are committed to creating a home that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our residents enjoy healthy meals that are prepared largely from scratch and are modified to accommodate low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat diets.  We recognize that staying physically active is one of the healthiest things we can all do for ourselves, so our community has a variety of exercise opportunities.  Please visit our website to see what sets us apart from other memory care and assisted living Phoenix offers.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “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.  If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-diabetes

As We Age, Our Dietary Needs Also Change

The government first published nutritional recommendations in 1941, which became known as the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDAs).  At the time, recommendations were more concerned on ensuring the population “as a whole was adequately fed and free from scurvy, rickets and other wartime diseases of malnutrition.”  These early guidelines did not address long-term issues such as heart disease and diabetes.   

Since then, we have learned we need to focus on maintaining good nutritional habits well into our senior years to avoid or mitigate our risk for chronic diseases.  One example is type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body’s muscle, fat and liver cells stop responding well to insulin resulting in consistently high blood sugar.  Doctors say type 2 diabetes can be caused by too much sugar and refined-carbohydrates in our diet, and to lessen our risk, we should maintain a healthy weight and minimize blood-sugar spikes as well as add more fiber to our diet. 

Another thing older adults’ should be aware of is muscle loss.  Along with resistance training, weight-lifting, Pilates, and yoga, nutritionists say to maintain strength we need to include protein in our diet.  Christine Ritchie, director of research for the division of palliative care and geriatric medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, says older adults’ diet should include more protein than when they were younger.  A man in his 50s needs “about 25 to 30 grams at each meal (like a medium chicken breast or burger, a 5-ounce can of tuna mixed with mayo, 2 cups of cooked rice and beans, or a cup of low-fat cottage cheese).”

Government dietary guidelines report that we burn approximately 200 fewer daily calories after age 50, so if you keep eating like you did in your thirties or forties, you will probably put on weight.  Also as bone loss starts sometime in our early thirties and continues into old age, seniors should consume foods with calcium and vitamin D. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends 1,200 milligrams a day for women and 1,000 mg for men.  Additionally, eat fruits and vegetables in a bright range of colors for heart-protecting antioxidants.  

Looking for unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM?  MorningStar of Santa Fe is dedicated to creating a true home for residents by providing a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We offer 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.  Visit our website to learn more.  

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

Source: arp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/nutrition-after-age-50.html

Estate Planning Offers Peace of Mind

A recent 2020 survey from Caring.com reports that the number of American adults (just 32 percent) who have a will or other estate-planning documents has dropped 25% since 2017.  Turns out many people say they do not know how to do it or worry it may be too expensive.  Others say they have not had time to do it, or think they do not have enough assets to make one necessary.  

A trust and estate attorney, Hugh Drake, a partner at Brown, Hay & Stephens in Springfield, Illinois and vice-chair of the Trust and Estate Division of the American Bar Association, says that while estate planning may not be fun, it does offer peace of mind.  He also explains, “It’s not the value of the estate that determines the need for a will;” but adds, “Knowing who will be in charge of resolving administrative issues and who will be the recipients of the assets will avoid a lot of anxiety, consternation and conflict among family members."

Experts say you do not need the services of an attorney, but if you draw one up yourself, you should have one review it.  In addition, they offer tips to avoid making preventable mistakes.   The first is to make sure you sign it properly.  This involves two witnesses who were present when you signed it, to sign it, and neither should be a beneficiary.  

Other pitfalls that may make your intentions unclear include not properly listing all your assets or not fully describing a particular asset or the name of the person to whom you want it to go to.  Additionally, many DIY wills do not provide alternatives for the death of the executor or beneficiaries.  By obtaining the services of an experienced attorney, most of these problems can be avoided.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Source: aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2020/6-common-mistakes-people-make-writing-a-will.html

We are Committed to the Comfort, Wellbeing & Safety of Residents

MorningStar at Arcadia’s goal is to provide the best assisted living Phoenix offers, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  To accomplish this lofty goal, our approach takes into account every aspect of senior living from the design of our gorgeous community to a broad range of care services, amenities, and wellness programs.  In fact, Ken Jaeger, MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder, had specific ideas on how to foster the ultimate environment for the wellbeing of seniors and it is the guiding spirit in which our community operates on.

For assisted living residents, private suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). Each suite has high-end finishes, a handicap-accessible bathroom, ceiling lighting, high ceilings, and large windows.  Suites also include a kitchenette with refrigerator, 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  Also, regardless of your level of care, we provide all residents with around-the-clock Care Managers to meet your needs and ensure your comfort and safety.       

As a resident of MorningStar, you will get three daily meals that are meticulously prepared largely from scratch by our Executive Chef.  Each meal is nutritious as well as delicious and recipes are modified to address a number of different dietary restrictions including low sodium or low fat, sugar-free, no sugar, and vegetarian options.   In addition, residents will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and programs that are designed to promote physical, intellectual and spiritual wellness.   

Add to that, our dedicated team members who are the heartbeat of our community and the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  They understand it is a privilege to serve and many come to know and treat our residents as they do their own moms and dads.  As a true home, we consider our residents, their families and team members to be part of the MorningStar family.  Please see our website for more information about our exceptional 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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide our residents the best assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Artistic Expression is Good for the Soul, Mind & Body

As we grow older, it is important to continue to nurture and connect to our inner healing voice.  Creative expression is one way to do that and can lead us to a place of deeper understanding and self-discovery.  Moreover with so many various disciplines such as dance, music, drama, the visual arts, writing, woodworking or photography, we are certain to find something that speaks to us.    

As many of us did not have opportunities to express our creativity as we moved into adulthood and began the process of building a career and raising a family, our retirement years are the perfect time to renew or begin a creative pursuit.  Sir Ken Robinson, an internationally recognized leader in the development of creativity, innovation and human resources, defines the experience as: “The arts address the idea of an aesthetic experience. An aesthetic experience is one in which the senses are operating at their peak, when you are present in the current moment, when you are resonating with the excitement of this thing that you are experiencing, when you are fully alive.” 

In support of this concept, the National Endowment for the Arts and the George Washington University conducted a widely-respected, multisite national study in 2001 to determine the impact of professional, community-based cultural programs on the general health, mental health and social activities of persons 65 years and older.  Led by the director of the Center on Aging, Health & Humanities at the University, Gene Cohen, MD, PhD, the study found that the arts have a positive effect on health and illness as we age.

The MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community fully recognizes the importance of seniors living meaningful, creative lives, which is why we have built our home around engaging ways to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory. Our many activities focus on mental, physical, spiritual and social connections and give residents something to look forward to each day.  For the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers, please see our website.   

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 information on unrivaled senior living in Santa Fe, NM.   

Source: 

joyfulheartfoundation.org/reunion/creative-expression

todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/news/ex_082809_03.shtml