Do You Feel Memory Problems are Interfering with Your Life

Do you feel as if memory problems are interfering with your life or have family members started to notice? Medical experts say there may be a distinction between a person noticing the memory loss and others becoming aware of it as this could signal a bigger problem and be an early sign of dementia.  

The Harvard Medical School explains the best place to start understanding the problem is to talk to your doctor. While they may not have the proper training to do extensive screening for MCI (mild cognitive impairment), they can rule out other things causing your memory loss such as medications you take or a recent head injury. Steps you can take on your own to improve cognitive function include getting enough sleep each night, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

After your own physician has completed an examination, and nothing appears to explain your memory loss, it is time to see a specialist. They, or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter or hospital should be able to recommend a behavioral neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. He or she will probably start with a series of written, on the computer, or oral tests to “assess memory, reasoning, attention, language, visual functions, motor functions, and social functions (such as empathy and knowing how to behave appropriately in social situations).”

They will check for “abnormalities in muscle strength, coordination, reflexes, senses, eye movement, and the pupils' reaction to light, which can signal abnormalities in specific areas of the brain.” In addition, the doctor will check for Parkinson’s, a stroke or tumors, and will probably schedule a hearing and vision test. If indicated, you may have advanced testing such as PET scans or your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers checked for signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Arcadia has 30 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our community was designed from the ground up to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix offers, and all of the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix offers. 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 outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source:  health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/mild-cognitive-impairment

Assisted Living is a Healthier, Safer Living Option for Many Seniors

A Place for Mom’s website, a free service that helps families in their senior care search, reports the various services offered at assisted living communities can make it a healthier, safer living option for many seniors. As services typically involve 24/7 care, nutritional meals and wellness programs, it means residents receive the kind of care required to enhance their quality of life.  

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia provide the social connections necessary to seniors’ wellbeing as well as intellectual stimulation. The individual and their family get peace of mind knowing help is available when it is needed. Likewise, recent research shows assisted living communities may help seniors avoid falls as most are equipped with safety features such as handicap-accessible bathrooms and wheelchair accessible doorways. MorningStar’s emergency call systems in each suite also means immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar at Arcadia offers seniors assistance with another all-too common problem of medication mismanagement. The JAMA Internal Medicine journal published a study showing “80% of older adults regularly take at least two prescription medications, and 36% regularly take at least five prescription drugs.” The Department of Health and Human Services reports up to 55 percent of older adults are “non-compliant” in their medications including skipping doses or failing to take medication as prescribed. Either one can result in hospitalizations or deaths. Our medication management service helps to avoid these problems and includes dispensing as well as ordering prescription drugs.

MorningStar’s comprehensive care starts with residents having an individualized plan created to address their specialized needs. It is frequently reviewed and updated as required. Our day-to-day care is intended to help residents maintain a healthier lifestyle with nutritional meals, exercise classes, and life enrichment programs designed for their needs. For exceptional assisted living, Phoenix area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Arcadia, a true destination for successful aging.  

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 residents the finest assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Santa Fe

Today’s assisted living is not just another term for a nursing home, which is intended for people who require skilled, around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Rather assisted living, the most popular and fastest growing long-term care option for older adults in the U.S., is designed for seniors who cannot get the help they need or afford while living at home or in an independent living community. The first community in the U.S. opened in the late 1980s. The concept quickly took hold out of consumers’ distaste for nursing homes and the desire for something offering the services, safety and amenities seniors required while still supporting and encouraging their independence.  

Assisted living recognizes seniors as productive, contributing individuals who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities offer private suites and most are equipped with kitchens for the meals residents wish to cook. At communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe, meals and transportation are provided, and residents can get help with activities of daily living including bathing, grooming, dressing, transferring, toileting, etc.  Residents feel comforted having the security and safety of 24-hour support, and families’ rest easy knowing that a trained, caring staff is available to help whenever their loved one needs it. 

Residents of MorningStar appreciate the ease of built-in social connections and predictable budgeting as well as activities designed to engage them physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Amenities include a bistro bar, theater, fitness room, library, salon and much more. Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day.

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be the place for you.  If you would like to see if we are a good fit, we offer short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) and respite care for those recovering from an illness or surgical procedure. Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

The Elderly are More at Risk for Malnutrition

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) cautions that elderly adults with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease among others, are more at risk for malnutrition.  Bad eating habits, loss of appetite, lack of access to healthy foods due to an inability to get out and shop, or a shortage of money, only add to the problem. 

The NCOA also wants seniors to know that poor nutrition not only makes it harder to manage chronic diseases but may actually make you more vulnerable to coming down with them.  Another problem is it can weaken your immune system leaving you susceptible to the flu, colds and other viruses.  Moreover, poor nutrition can hamper one’s ability to recover from surgical procedures, heal wounds, and increases the risk for infection or falls.     

Also, as many elderly people have a decrease in appetite and consume much smaller portions each day, the food they do eat needs to be nutrient-dense.  This is one reason experts recommend the elderly avoid foods high in sugar, salt and trans fats as well as processed foods, which often are short on nutrients and much needed vitamins and minerals.  

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we know that good nutrition is important to the health of seniors.  This is why we offer our residents not only delicious daily meals but ones that are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  Our range of nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  Our Executive Chef even incorporates “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens to enhance our food service. For more information on the finest senior housing Santa Fe offers, please contact us or visit our website.

MorningStar of Santa Fe 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 housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

It May be Time to Consider Assisted Living for Mom or Dad

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that assisted living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers. 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 Albuquerque provides outstanding senior living. 

Another Important Vaccine for Older Adults

Currently Shingrix is the only vaccine approved for adults 50 years and older to protect against shingles. This vaccine is important as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly one in three people in the U.S. develop shingles at some point, and every year an estimated 1 million people are diagnosed with the disease.  

Symptoms of shingles include pain, rash, itching, and at first fluid-filled, then eventually crusting blisters. People can additionally suffer from a hypersensitivity to touch or light as well as headaches and fevers. The disease can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months and pain is generally most intense in the first few weeks. Some individuals may require pain medication to sleep or get comfort.   

When Shingrix first came on the market in 2017 so many people wanted it there weren’t enough dosages to meet demand. Now manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline reports there is plenty of supply available for anyone who wishes to get the shot. For many people who put off medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic, now may be the time to protect yourself against shingles.

The vaccine requires two doses given any time between two to six months; and studies show it to be highly effective against the shingles in both older healthy adults and frailer ones. “In a large multicenter study of approximately 27,000 people vaccinated with Shingrix or a placebo, effectiveness ranged from about 90% in frail participants to nearly 96% in non-frail participants.” 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our mission is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  Located on the popular northeast side of town, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants as well as other services.  Our community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites and 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. To experience our community up close, contact us to schedule a visit.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our principles are based on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/shingrix-shingles-vaccine

Hearing Loss is Very Common in Seniors

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our goal is to be the best senior living Phoenix offers, and we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our beautiful home has 80 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 30 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar at Arcadia’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

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 residents the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer.

Finding a Community for a Loved One with Dementia

Searching for memory care for a loved one that suits the person’s needs as well as the family’s is challenging at best. Knowing the person is dependent on getting the level of care they need for both their wellbeing and safety makes choosing the right home essential. Experts say start by taking your time to think about your loved one’s needs including daily personal care required such as dressing, toileting, bathing, etc. as well as any on-going medical needs. 

Additionally, do they have mobility issues and use a wheelchair or a walker; or do they need assistance eating? If the person is known to wander, you will want a secure home to keep him or her safe including alarms on the doors. Another thing experts say is to let the community know if the person is prone to angry outbursts or other aggressive behaviors. 

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s needs, now consider if the homes you are looking at are equipped to handle those needs. Ask about living arrangements, dining service, and the level of daily help the person will receive. Moreover, does the community offer exercise programs and other meaningful activities? 

Now inquire about the homes’ experience with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, and the training the staff has in dementia care. What is the home’s philosophy of care and how do they approach difficult situations such as aggressive behaviors? Most of all does the staff seem caring and do residents appear to be content and well-looked after? 

At MorningStar, our mission is to provide the best senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Santa Fe. 

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Assisted Living Gives Families Peace of Mind

Are you worried about your elderly parents getting the care they need at home? Assisted living communities are one way to make sure they get the care they need, while giving family members the peace of mind they need. 

To help ensure the community you choose is a good, all-around fit, experts say the trick is to find one based on your parents’ needs, their lifestyle and budget. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, says the key to a successful move for mom or dad is to have a frank and open conversation with the family to make sure everyone is on the same page. Be sure your parents have the chance to give their opinion. 

When you begin the actual search, remember assisted living is not a nursing home or memory care. To determine the best community for them, start by addressing their ADLs’ (activities of daily living) needs. Keep in mind the amount of help they need right now and how much help they will most likely need over the next couple of years. After all, you do not want to go through the process of moving them into a community to have to move them out in a few years once their needs cannot be met. 

Determine your parents’ budget, and if you need help in that area, seek advice from an elder care financial service or attorney. At the MorningStar of Albuquerque assisted living and memory care community, we have partnered with Elderlife Financial Services to present different financial resources commonly used to pay for senior living. 

Another important step is to virtually (or personally) visit the community and to get to know the staff. Narrowing down your choices includes considering things such as how convenient will it be for the family to visit and is it located close to a pharmacy, medical facilities and shopping.  Furthermore, find out if the community is accepting new residents, and if not, you may want to go on their waiting list.    

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  In addition to assisted living and memory care, we offer respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) that are ideal to see if we are a good fit. For exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque, NM seniors are encouraged to contact us to learn more.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers. 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 Albuquerque provides outstanding senior living.

Learn More About MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Phoenix

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar at Arcadia we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that senior living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Phoenix has to offer. 

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

Common Food Group Found in Cultures Known for Longevity

When we look at cultures with a reputation for longevity, leading nutritionists and food scientists say there is one food group that stands out. “Blue zones,” areas known for having many of their inhabitants live to an advanced age of hundred years or more, include in their diet, five of the ten most recommended foods. All are from the bean family and include lentils, soybeans, peanuts (a legume in the same family as peas and lentils), chickpeas and black beans.

People living on the Japanese island of Okinawa might enjoy a dinner of stir-fried green beans, soybeans or mung sprouts. Another meal in Nicoya, Costa Rico typically includes black beans. Known for a high level of anthocyanins, a pigment that gives red, purple, and blue plants their rich coloring, beans help fight free radicals and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. In fact, anthocyanins offer 10 times the antioxidants of an equivalent serving of oranges. 

Nutritionists say beans also boost the immune system by supplying the fiber our microbiomes need. They suggest the local diet of people in blue zones help them avoid many of the same health risks Americans suffer from such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and cancers. 

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we offer residents a lifestyle in which to comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our all-day dining service includes meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients. 

Located on the city’s west side and ideally situated for mountain views, MorningStar of Santa Fe has 56 stylish suites for assisted living with a variety of floorplans. Within our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Visit our website for further information on the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Source: cnbc.com/2020/09/15/adding-this-simple-food-to-your-diet-may-help-you-live-to-100-says-longevity-health-researcher.html

Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?

Whether it is chronic or happens every once in a while, most of us have had a restless night and woke up feeling tired. For some it is hard to fall asleep, while for others, it is difficult to stay asleep for the whole night. Sleep experts offer several tips for a restful night’s sleep and a more productive, positive day.  

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Sleep Research Society (SRS) explain sleep is as important to a healthy lifestyle as good nutrition and regular exercise. To become a better sleeper, it helps to know something about the different components of sleep.   

The current thinking for a normal night’s sleep is between seven to nine hours a night, or during a 24-hour period. They say to determine your optimal sleep amount, experiment for a few weeks by going to bed each night when you get tired and waking naturally in the morning. Another thing is to deal with health issues, which may interfere with your sleep, like restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, insomnia or other sleep disorders.  

The Mayo Clinic says it helps to go to bed at the same time each night and to wake up at the same time. On weekends try not to change your schedule by more than an hour. They also caution to not eat too heavy of a meal too close to bedtime and avoid nicotine, caffeine and other stimulates several hours before bedtime. The same goes for alcohol as it can make you fall asleep easily but causes you to awake in the middle of the night.  

Get plenty of exercise during the day but avoid doing it right before bed. Another tip is to create a calming atmosphere in the bedroom; and remember our smart devices emit glowing blue lights that experts say can disturb our circadian rhythm. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque is an assisted living and memory care community designed to provide seniors a comfortable home to safely age in place. We offer a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, along with a sense of security knowing someone is always around if needed. Care services include 24-hour care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication management and much more. Visit our website for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.  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 Albuquerque provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: healthline.com/health-news/six-tips-for-better-sleep-053114#Three-Components-of-Healthy-Sleep

Increase Flexibly with Stretching Exercises

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin.  For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did.  And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.  

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin.  In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints.  Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair.  Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.    

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Nestled in the popular Phoenix residential neighborhood of Arcadia, MorningStar offers 80 private assisted living suites and 30 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please see our website to learn more.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Phoenix offers

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/

Memory Care Specialists at MorningStar’s Phoenix Community

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Arcadia provides 30 secure suites devoted to the care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to encourage residents’ independence as much as possible, while providing individualized care that stimulates or calms as the situation requires.  

At MorningStar our approach to memory care is designed around our comprehensive program we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our philosophy encourages us to walk alongside a resident as we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the world of dementia.  With insight and intentionality, we enter into our memory-impaired residents’ “purple world” to cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. We also educate the families of those afflicted with dementia on how to follow our lead and enter too.

Another important aspect of our unique methodology is to accept the diagnosis of dementia and embrace the fact (we know it is difficult) that this is the path we must take together.  By embracing a deep understanding of the disease, it allows us to embrace the necessary changes in our own communication style as well as physically embrace residents with the power of touch. And most importantly we embrace hope.  

Finally, Lavender Sky explores a boundless variety of resourceful and individualized solutions for we recognize that what works today may not work tomorrow.  When memory care residents come to MorningStar at Arcadia, we explore the person’s life including their background, interests and preferences to create a specialized care plan.  We also explore ways to engage and involve their family members. 

As you can see, memory care at our senior living community springs from a deep understanding of the disease and is offered with the utmost love and compassion.   Please visit our website to learn more about exceptional memory care in Phoenix. 

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.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque

Looking for the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers? MorningStar of Albuquerque provides residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Our residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out including fireside patios, salon, bistro, theatre, and fitness room.  Delicious meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room.

However, our stylish design does not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including high ceilings, large windows, wall-to wall-carpeting, and 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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.  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 Albuquerque provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Differences Between Dementia and Normal Memory Loss

Experts say perhaps as many as 40 percent of adults over the age of 65 suffer from some level of memory loss, but are quick to add, it does not necessarily mean Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. They explain there are some noticeable characteristics separating normal memory loss from dementia.  

For instance, many older adults occasionally forget how to operate a piece of machinery or how to program a remote control if they have not done it in a while; but doctors say this is common and most-likely not a cause for concern. However, it is more concerning when a person forgets how to get home or how to perform routine tasks. 

It is normal to have to pause and think how to communicate a thought or idea but it is not normal to forget what you just said and continuously repeat yourself, or to not be able to finish a thought. Another sign the problem is more serious than normal forgetfulness is using the wrong word to describe something or forgetting the name altogether; as is forgetting names of family and friends. 

Another example of more than normal age-related forgetfulness is forgetting what an object is or what it is for. With normal memory loss, you may forget where you put your glasses; someone with Alzheimer’s may find their glasses and not recognize them as their own or forget they wear glasses. Experts caution even in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, people can have balance problems, and as the disease progresses, balance typically gets worse. A 2009 study found people with dementia were “8-times more likely to fall than older people who have not been diagnosed with a form of dementia.”   

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s goal is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our community is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar and all of the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.  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 Albuquerque provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: activebeat.com/your-health/normal-aging-vs-alzheimers-6-key-differences

Assisted Living Provides the Care Your Parent Needs and Your Peace of Mind

Are you worried about your elderly parents getting the care they need at home? Assisted living communities are one way to make sure they get the care they need, while giving family members the peace of mind they need. 

To help ensure the community you choose is a good, all-around fit, experts say the trick is to find one based on your parents’ needs, their lifestyle and budget, and the location. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, says the key to a successful move for mom or dad is to have a frank and open conversation with the family to make sure everyone is on the same page. Be sure your parents have the chance to give their opinion. 

When you begin the actual search, remember assisted living is not a nursing home or memory care. To determine the best community for them, start by addressing their ADLs’ (activities of daily living) needs. Keep in mind the amount of help they need right now and how much help they will most likely need in the future. After all, you do not want to go through the process of moving them into a community only to have to move them again in a few years if their needs cannot be met. 

Determine your parents’ budget, and if you need help in that area, seek advice from an elder care financial service or attorney. At MorningStar Senior Living, we have partnered with Elderlife Financial Services to present different financial resources commonly used to pay for senior living. 

Another important step is to visit the place (or do a virtual tour) and to get to know the staff. You want the community to have a caring and warm staff and residents that are friendly.  If your parents are not very mobile, you can do the tours and narrow down the selections so they only tour the top choices.  

If you are looking in the Santa Fe area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Santa Fe. In addition to assisted living and memory care, we offer respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) that are ideal to try out for size. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers, and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

We proudly provide 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.  If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.

Help Prevent Falls & Injuries with Stretching Exercises

If you are a senior who is having difficulty turning your neck to look behind you when driving, having problems getting up from a low chair or difficulty picking something up from the floor, you may find adding stretches to your routine can really improve these types of motions. Stretching exercises also help seniors improve flexibility and balance, both of which lower a person’s risk for falls and injuries. Experts explain stretching gives seniors a better range of movement in their joints, helps improve posture, increases circulation and releases muscle tension and soreness. 

The Journal of Gerontology recently reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults. It found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.” Along with the favorable benefits stretching provides, it can be done anywhere and does not require any special equipment. However, before beginning any new exercise routine, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level and the type of stretches most appropriate for you. 

Another thing to remember is it is important to warm up before stretching. Experts say it can be doing something as simple as a walk around the block. Additionally, they warn not to stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension. A stretch can typically be held for 30 seconds, but do not bounce when you stretch. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe is a senior living community providing 56 private assisted living suites and another 29 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer, we encourage you to contact us for more information.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers. 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. 

Medication Management is an Important Preventive Measure

Experts say medication management is an important preventive measure to avoid potential serious health hazards for seniors. As many older adults take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to treat different symptoms and health conditions, they are at a greater risk for medication mix-ups. Researchers estimate that 25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.  

Polypharmacy is the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse, or harmful, drug events. While these episodes are usually preventable, doctors acknowledge it can be confusing keeping track of daily dosages and special instructions such as to take with or without food or the time of day, etc.

If an elderly parent or grandparent is taking several medications, healthcare providers say it is a good idea to inquiry about their medication management. One sign they may not be organized is if they have medications stored in different locations throughout the house, and old, outdated prescriptions are mixed in with current ones. You can start by gathering all medications in one place, remember it is best to store them in a cool, dry location, and set aside any outdated medications for proper disposal. Write down the names of the drugs, dosages, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Also, include herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. Bring the list to the next visit to their primary care physician and ask why mom or dad is taking it, how long they will be on it, and do any medications present a dangerous interaction with another drug they are on. 

MorningStar at Arcadia is a beautiful assisted living and memory care community in Phoenix.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure residents’ comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers.  Please 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.

Pets Offer Unconditional Love and Loyal Companionship

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 Santa Fe is dedicated to providing the finest senior housing Santa Fe, 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 56 assisted living suites, and another 29 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 Santa Fe 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 housing, Santa Fe NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer.