Healthier Choices for Tasty Sweet Desserts

The U.S. News and World Report published an article on tasty treats designed to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a healthier alternative to more sugar laden desserts. One suggestion from board-certified oncology dietitian, Kailey Proctor, of the Leonard Cancer Institute at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, is to grill pineapple, banana, apple or pear slices. Grilling concentrates flavors by reducing the water content, and further sweetens the fruit as natural sugars are caramelized by the heat.  

Dark chocolate is a known powerful source of antioxidants as research shows it can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and raise HDLs, reducing your risk for heart disease. One healthy, easy-to-make dessert is to melt dark chocolate and spread it over parchment paper. Then sprinkle dried cherries, chopped nuts or sunflower seeds over it; refrigerate for five minutes and cut into small pieces. Another variation is to dip fresh strawberries or other fruit into melted dark chocolate. 

Yogurt parfaits are fun to put-together and can be customized to your taste. Using a parfait dish or small bowl, add granola, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, peanut butter or seeds, layering with yogurt. To cut down on fat, use nonfat or low-fat yogurt as it still provides a good source of protein without the calories. 

How about banana ice cream made from frozen pureed bananas mixed with almond milk? If you like, add in peanut butter and nuts. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top, which is “thought to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help diabetics manage their blood sugar levels.” 

For exceptional senior living, Albuquerque area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar. Our many services include meals designed by our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch with the freshest of ingredients. We also use “BrainWise Foods” known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/healthy-dessertsand-theyre-tasty-too

Find Assisted Living for Seniors that Maintains Independence and Privacy at MorningStar

For many seniors, leaving the home they love and moving into an assisted living community can be daunting, and often a difficult conversation to have as a child of a senior. Your parents in need of assisted living may worry about losing their independence, their privacy, and their sense of autonomy. However, for those considering an assisted living arrangement at MorningStar of Sparks, there is good news. MorningStar offers the most personalized assisted living Nevada has to offer. This senior living community dedicates its time and attention to ensuring that each resident receives the support they need while maintaining their independence, privacy, and autonomy.

One of the things that set MorningStar of Sparks apart from other assisted living communities is their commitment to exceptional and personalized senior care. Upon move in, every resident receives a personalized care plan that considers their unique needs, preferences, and interests. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that it continues to meet the resident's changing needs throughout their stay. This attention to detail should help you remain rest assured that your parent is being properly cared for and kept happy and healthy.

At MorningStar of Sparks, the staff recognizes that every resident is unique and deserves personalized attention and care. This is why they offer a range of services that can be tailored to each resident's individual needs. This personalized care extends far beyond just medical and physical needs. Our caretakers dedicate their time to getting to know each resident, their likes and dislikes, their hobbies and interests, and their personality. This helps us provide personalized social and recreational activities tailored to each resident's needs and preferences.

Contact us today if you want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and memory care Sparks NV has seen. MorningStar Assisted Living Retirement Homes in Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

 To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Sparks, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Nevada. We encourage you to see the most exceptional and dependable memory care East Reno, Nevada offers. 

Assisted Living Can Be a Healthier Lifestyle for Seniors Than Living Alone

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities.  This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into assisted living.  However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to investigate alternatives.   

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone.  They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others.  In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs.  Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections. 

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parents will have their basic needs met seamlessly.  Lastly, something often overlooked regarding assisted living is that with proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back.  Also, by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers.  

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe provides the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer, with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Options include 56 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, devoted to caring for seniors suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we have 29 secure suites. Located on the city’s west side, near the intersection of St. Francis and St. Michael, our community has wonderful mountain views and is convenient for shopping and other services. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

Best Spring Activities for Seniors

Springtime is the perfect time to get seniors in the spirit of the new season! With spring comes new plant growth, baby animals, warmer weather and so much more. Winter can be a cold, sometimes boring time of year. However, with the renewal of nature can come a renewal of energy and joy with these spring activities for seniors in assisted living in Phoenix. 

Farmers Market

Farmers markets are a wonderful way for elderly people to enjoy the spring, as well as help support local businesses. Having a day out with friends and family is also a great way to make amazing memories, and even try new things! Farmers markets are often full of delicious foods and drinks, beautiful crafts, one-of-a-kind decor, home-grown produce, and much more. This makes farmers markets a perfect place for seniors to get outside and enjoy the springtime, and browse great local products. 

Painting

Painting is something that doesn’t require any training or experience to be fun. However, it is a great outlet for all the emotions that can come up during springtime. Winter can be a difficult time for the elderly due to seasonal depression; but painting can help process these feelings so they can move on. Use this opportunity to get together with seniors in assisted living, and all paint your favorite things about spring. This is a great way to learn more about everyone, and have a fabulous piece of art for years to come. 

Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is another activity that can be great for seniors. It can also be turned into a fun community activity where people trade old things with each other. You can also have a big community yard sale and split or donate the proceeds to a local charity like a pet shelter. Spring cleaning is also important to do so that everyone can get rid of all the things they no longer need. This way, more people can benefit from these items, rather than all of it sitting around being useless. Plus, it is the perfect time to reminisce on sentimental items, and learn about each other’s memories and lives. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix, AZ 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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque

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 of Albuquerque 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 grab bars and walk-in showers in the bathroom. MorningStar’s emergency call systems in each suite also means immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar of Albuquerque 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 trusted assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

4 Reasons Yoga is Good for Seniors

Yoga is a wonderful exercise that is low impact, as well as being good for mental and physical health. This makes it the perfect type of workout for aging seniors. Another great thing about yoga is that it can be done for any experience level, and different areas can be targeted as needed. cContinue reading below for 5 reasons yoga is good for seniors in assisted living. 

Balance, Flexibility, and Stability

The elderly can be very prone to losing balance, walking unsteadily, falling, etc. This is why it is so important to be proactive about these issues, and work on them ahead of time. Yoga is well known for being an effective way to strengthen the core muscles, which can help with balance and stability. In addition to this, flexibility can be improved since yoga can help increase range of motion, loosen tight muscles, and strengthen weakened muscle groups. 

Better Sleep

Since promoting calmness and breathing exercises are a big part of practicing yoga, it can also help seniors sleep better at night. Thanks to research, studies have found that elderly people who regularly practice yoga sleep better overall. This is excellent news for seniors, since they can often struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances. If you are an elderly person in senior living in Phoenix, consider giving yoga a try. 

Decreased Blood Pressure

According to the CDC, consistent physical activity is one of the best things you can do to support your heart health. As a senior, this is even more vital since as you age, more things are likely to show it if they haven’t been properly taken care of. Yoga is an easy and effective way to start taking care of your heart, as well as your body; and reduce your risk of cardiac events.

Pain Relief

Aging means that certain areas of your body such as the joints could be experiencing pain from a lifetime of wear and tear. While a little pain here and there could be normal, chronic pain can quickly drain seniors of all energy and motivation. However, with yoga, this pain can be helped thanks to all the stretching involved. Yoga can reduce inflammation, which in turn can be a huge pain reliever, especially for seniors. 

(Source: https://training.mmlearn.org/blog/nine-benefits-of-yoga-for-seniors)

(Source: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-activity/yoga-and-sleep)

(Source: https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/sgr/olderad.htm)

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Holistic Memory Care in Albuquerque

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque NM’s MorningStar community offers individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 memory care suites, and we are equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s holistic memory care is personalized and compassionate supported living under what we call Lavender Sky, which is the way we thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore to find purpose and encouragement in every aspect of daily routine. As dementia care specialists, we deeply understand the disease and know regardless of the extent of memory loss residents deserve to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. All team members are trained in MorningStar’s brand standards of Lavender Sky and in the pathology of dementia and brain disease. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing, dressing and have the tools to calm or stimulate a resident as needed.  

The Reflections Neighborhood was designed to provide a secure setting, yet permit residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. Residents especially enjoy being outdoors in the enclosed patio and courtyard.  We offer a wide selection of meaningful wellness programs as well as purposeful activities including a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, and entertainers. 

Mealtimes are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, we know you want the very best memory care; and we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please visit our website to learn more our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy of caring for seniors. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

3 Reasons Pomegranates are Good for You

Pomegranates are an often overlooked fruit, since they can be difficult to work with. However, these fruits are well worth the effort it takes to harvest all those beautiful, red jewels (called arils) inside. Here are 3 reasons pomegranates are good for seniors in assisted living in Phoenix, Arizona. 

Full of Vitamins and Minerals

In their whole fruit form, pomegranates are packed with nutrients like antioxidants, fiber, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin C, and much more. All of these nutrients are vital for your body’s overall health; and keep all your systems functioning as they should. Antioxidants alone are fantastic compounds that help protect your cells from environmental wear and tear. However, keep in mind that you will actually only get all of these benefits by eating pomegranates—not just drinking the juice. It’s those little arils that really pack a healthy punch. 

Good for Your Heart

Over the years, several studies have shown pomegranates to be instrumental in helping keep hearts healthy. Due to their anti-inflammatory properties and powerful antioxidants, pomegranates protect the heart in many ways. They do this by reducing damage from oxidative stress, helping regulate blood pressure, and contributing to the prevention of plaque buildup in the arteries. All of these benefits make pomegranates a powerhouse of heart health and cardiovascular wellness overall. If you’re a senior living in Phoenix, Arizona, then consider adding more raw, organic pomegranates into your diet if your primary physician gives you the OK. 

Boosts Your Brain 

Compounds in pomegranates, called “ellagitannins” have been found to work like antioxidants. This means that they reduce inflammation, but specifically inflammation related to the brain. Early research has also shown that these ellagitannins may also be able to help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Ellagitannins are also being studied for their ability to assist the gut microbiome in creating a compound called “urolithin A.” Urolithin A has shown promise in reducing brain inflammation that can cause a variety of cognitive diseases as well. This means that eating pomegranates can be a delicious way to be more proactive with your brain health. 

(Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28608832/)

(Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31892167/ | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26559394/)

(Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7918969/)

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

3 Reasons MorningStar Senior Living is The Best Choice

When it comes to finding the best place for elderly loved ones to spend their golden years, nothing is more important than quality of care. Not just any senior living community will do. That’s why, in this post, we will be discussing some of the reasons MorningStar Senior Living is the best choice for seniors in need of assisted living in Phoenix, Arizona. 

Principles

MorningStar Senior Living has been built on the following principles: honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing generously into their team. These principles are more than just words; they are the foundation of everything MorningStar does and stands for. With a loving, Godly approach to senior care, MorningStar takes extra steps to ensure all seniors in their communities are loved and cared for. With intention and a heart to serve, the staff of MorningStar Senior Living are committed to building a culture that makes the world a better place—starting with elder care. 

Variety of Care

Many senior living communities will only offer one or minimal services. However, MorningStar knows that all seniors have different needs and necessary levels of care. That’s why all of their communities offer a variety of services such as independent living, assisted living, short-term stays, pet friendliness, companion suites, and even memory care. However, each location offers different services, so be sure to visit and take a tour before you decide which of our communities is right for you! No matter what, MorningStar knows that elderly people value their independence; so they work hard to foster an environment of genuine trust, respect, and care for each and every resident. 

Atmosphere

Another main mission of MorningStar Senior Living is to create an atmosphere where seniors feel connected and heard. All of their staff receive on site training, as well as continued training throughout their time with MorningStar. There is also always a licensed nurse present at each community 24/7. This commitment to employee training and resident safety is only part of the amazing atmosphere MorningStar can provide. In addition to the above, MorningStar also strives to keep all of their communities fully updated with many amenities, such as recreational facilities, gyms, restaurants, pools, beautiful sitting areas, and beautifully landscaped grounds. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix, AZ 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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

3 Hair Care Tips for Seniors

Hair is a part of us that changes with us as we age. Hair will go gray, thin, and possibly fall out as the wear and tear of life takes its toll. However, there are several ways to support your hair as you age. Continue reading below if you are a senior living in Phoenix, and you are curious about how to take the best care of your aging hair. 

Avoid Yellowing

As we age, our hair loses its pigment and turns “gray.” However, this is not so much a color change as it is actually a loss of pigment in our hair. This loss of pigment means that gray hair can be “dyed” by the environment. Things like smoking, harsh shampoos with pigment, diet, and more can all contribute to a yellow hue developing in the place of gray hair. You can avoid this by not smoking, using dye free hair products, investing in a shower water filter, and eating a healthy diet. If your hair is already showing signs of yellowing, it can be helpful to use a gentle shampoo with a blue or violet pigment to cancel out the yellow. 

Support Thinning 

Hair will often become thinner as we age; which can create a lot of confidence and self-esteem issues. However, thinning hair can actually be a great opportunity to try a new hairstyle. For example, a longer hair style will actually draw more attention to thinning hair; but a shorter style can hide it much more easily. You can also decide to just shave it all off if you are feeling adventurous! Whatever the case may be, seeing thinning hair as an opportunity to try a new ‘do can be the perfect way to cope with your changing, aging hair. Plus, if you are a senior in assisted living, a shorter hair style can be much easier to take care of and keep up with. 

Be Gentle

Aging hair is much more delicate than you may be used to, which means you will need to adjust and be more gentle. Brush your hair with a less harsh brush, and not a lot of pressure; use gentle shampoos and other hair products; and avoid any hard scrubbing on your scalp. This will mitigate breakage and loss as your hair becomes more brittle. You can also support this part of your hair’s aging process by taking biotin, collagen, and applying strengthening hair masks. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Ways to Boost Seniors’ Immune Systems

Keeping your immune system healthy is important no matter your age. However, for the elderly, immunity support can be the difference between a mild cold and a trip to the hospital. In this post, we will be covering some key ways for seniors to give their immune systems a boost; so read on for this valuable information!

Get Good Sleep

Sleep is the time when our bodies do the most work on healing our bodies, fighting pathogens, and distributing nutrients. However, without enough sleep, this process can be interrupted and greatly reduce the benefits of a full rest. So how many hours of sleep do seniors need? The answer is this: ages 50-60 need 7+ hours of sleep, ages 61-64 need 7-9 hours of sleep, and ages 65 and up need 7-8 hours of sleep per night. So make sure you are getting the right amount of sleep for your age; and figure out a routine that allows you to get all your rest—even if you live in an assisted living community. 

(Source: https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html)

Try Prebiotics

If you consistently take antibiotics, chances are your body’s microbiome could be off balance. Your microbiome is found in your gut, and is made up of all the bacteria that lives there and helps (or doesn’t) your body function properly. Think of it like a garden for this example. A healthy microbiome is full of blooming and beautiful, helpful plants. However, antibiotics can often kill the entire garden and allow anything else to grow in its place. Probiotics are a popular nutrient because they help already healthy microbiomes to thrive; so they don’t really help after antibiotics. This is where prebiotics come in! Prebiotics help the good plants grow, and do the weeding for you too. They help restore balance in your gut microbiome, so that your good bacteria thrives, and the bad bacteria doesn’t. This is vital because your microbiome impacts your immune system so heavily, that an unhealthy microbiome can weaken your immune system completely. 

(Sources: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2018.01830/full | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27231050/) 

Stay Hydrated

Water is life to your body! We are all 70% water, and water is something we absolutely need to consume to live. Without proper hydration, the body’s systems slow down and weaken—including your immune system. However, not everyone even knows how much water they should be drinking. So here’s a quick trick: drink at least half your weight in ounces every day. For example, if you weighed 100 pounds, you would need at least 50 ounces of water per day. If you are in assisted living in Phoenix, talk to someone about helping you keep up with your daily water intake, so that you can support your immune system.

(Source: https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/wellness/how-to-calculate-how-much-water-you-should-drink)

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix, AZ 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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

The Importance of Exercise for The Elderly

Exercise is something many of us fall off of as we age. However, exercise and staying active is still important for older bodies, too! Whether you are a senior living in Phoenix alone, or in assisted living, there are many ways you can take advantage of the benefits of exercise. 

Reduces Fall Risk

When you exercise consistently, your balance, strength, range of motion, and more are all improved. This can allow you to be able to walk more steadily, and even help you catch yourself if you trip over something. Falls are a significant risk factor for seniors, since many falls require emergency room visits, and even cause irreparable damage. So, do what you can to keep your body moving as a senior; including exercises like yoga, tai chi, walks, and/or other low-impact activities that aren’t too strenuous for what an older body can handle. 

Prevents Muscle Atrophy 

The muscles we don’t use end up atrophied. This means that they shrink and become almost unusable over time. This is why exercise as an elderly person is so important. Atrophied muscles can cause pain and weakness, as well as limit your ability to move around the way you used to. The more range of motion you lose, the harder it will be to do anything. Eventually, without exercise, it can even become exhausting to do the most basic things like go to the restroom, play with grandchildren, prepare food, and much more. Help your body stay reliable by keeping your muscles active and moving as much as you can. 

Improves Mood

Exercise is well-known for releasing those feel-good hormones called endorphins, that boost your mood. This isn’t the only way your mood can be improved by exercise, though. Consistent exercise can also help you sleep better at night, which helps your body get the rest it needs, and keeps your brain out of a tired fog. Exercise is something that impacts just about every part of your life, so do your best to move around in some way, every day. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

5 Anti-Alzheimer’s Habits

Alzheimer’s is a very frightening diagnosis to receive, whether you’re a senior who lives independently, or in assisted living. While there are no fool-proof ways to completely prevent Alzheimer’s, there are many things you can do to keep from contributing to your chances. 

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do to your body overall, and can also increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. If you smoke, start doing everything you can to quit now, and stick to quitting. If you’re already a non-smoker, always be aware of secondhand smoke around you to avoid it. 

Eat a Healthy Diet

What we fuel our body with is what helps it function. Bad fuel equals sub-par functioning in some way or another. This is why what we eat is so important. Speak with your doctor and/or a licensed nutritionist about what you need more of, and what you need to avoid in your diet. This will help your body become healthier, and allow it to function more efficiently. 

Stay Active

Even if you don’t have a lot of energy or time, there are still ways that you can stay active. Proper exercise helps strengthen your body, and this strength also translates into your body’s systems, such as the nervous system, circulatory system, lymphatic system, and more. Staying active gives your body that much of an advantage to prevent many diseases, not just Alzheimer’s.

Exercise Your Brain

Keeping your brain busy, engaged, and solving problems is how you exercise it. Our cognitive functions are a bit like muscles in that the more we use them, the stronger they become. Try or learn something new every day, work on brain teasers, do puzzles, switch up your routine, etc. to keep your brain active and engaged. If you live in an assisted living community, ask staff and family for some brain games and activities so that everyone can try them! 

Drink Sparingly

Drinking to excess is similar to smoking—it has no value to your body, and can actually cause life-threatening damage. Alcohol slows down the body’s functions and processes, including cognitive function. Consistent heavy drinking over time is hard on your brain, as well as the rest of your body; so stick to none or one small glass of red wine a day.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix, AZ 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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

(Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/alzheimers-prevention/faq-20058140)

3 Winter Fun Ideas for Seniors

Winter is a beautiful time to get into a joyful spirit and have fun with family and friends. For seniors, this can be one of the best times to get together with their loved ones and celebrate holidays. Here are 3 awesome winter fun ideas for seniors; whether you are in independent or assisted living!

Carol Karaoke 

Karaoke is a fun way to let loose and enjoy yourself with just about any group of people. Whether you know the words or not, it’s always nice to be able to just be silly with loved ones. A bonus of karaoke is that you can go with a theme, and do funny renditions of Christmas carols, or other holiday songs you may know. Karaoke is not only fun, it also requires some movement and reading; so it’s an amazing way to get your mind and body moving too!

Recipe Sharing

Winter time is a time of cozy, homemade meals with loved ones for most, but each family has different recipes. This is a wonderful opportunity to share a bit of your family’s traditions/culture with your friends! Try organizing a potluck with friends where everyone brings a family favorite along with a recipe written down for guests to take with them. This is a perfect way to share meaningful memories, delicious food, and even some family history. Nothing brings people together quite like food, and winter is the best time to share your most comforting recipes. This can even work in an assisted living community where everyone can meet each other’s families while trying their favorite foods!

Card Making

There are few things more special than receiving a handmade/handwritten card in the mail. However, many people simply don’t make cards anymore. This is a great opportunity to let your creativity shine, and try your hand at card making! Just about anyone can make a card, and there are no right or wrong ways to do it; so grab some supplies and give it a go! Paper, pens, markers, stickers, buttons, photos, colored pencils, scissors, glitter, stamps, popsicle sticks, and much more can all be used for card making; so don’t worry about not having enough of any one thing to use.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

3 Ways Seniors Can Protect Their Vision

Vision is something not many of us think about until an issue arises with it. However, you can support your vision at any age—even as a senior in assisted living in Phoenix! Being proactive about protecting your vision is a great way to help your vision stay at its best for as long as possible. 

Keep Up With Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are the best way to gauge where your vision health is at, and what you can do to improve it. Everyone’s eyes are different, and have different needs, so speak with your optometrist about ways that your vision specifically can be improved/supported. For some, it may be helpful to wear glasses only when needed, and others may need to keep their glasses on all the time. It all comes down to the way your vision works. 

Limit Screen Time

Screens are something we don’t get much time away from these days—even our watches have screens now! However, this doesn’t make limiting screen time impossible. Make sure you are spending at least a couple hours a day not staring at some type of screen. Try going for walks, reading more paper books, playing board/card games, being creative, etc. instead of looking at bright, busy screens all the time. Another helpful tip if you do just have a lot of screen time is to try blue light lenses. These are special lenses (or a special coating) that helps reduce the side effects of glare from screens on our eyes. Ask your optometrist for recommendations. 

Wear Sunglasses

Direct sunlight can do a lot of damage to your eyes over time. This is why sunglasses with UV protection are so vital whenever you are outside on sunny days. They protect your eyes from being damaged by the ultraviolet rays of the sun, and you still get all the vitamin D the rest of your body needs from the sun. If you are a senior living in Phoenix, talk to your optometrist about whether they offer prescription sunglasses, or clip-ons for your regular glasses if you already have them. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living in Phoenix, Arizona.

Seniors Need to be Aware of Financial Scams

Each year thousands of elderly seniors fall prey to ruthless schemes that rob them of their money and identity. The sad part is that 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.  

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, look at the information and discuss the various schemes used with them.  One scam frequently used is for a thief to call unsuspecting victims and pretend to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They have many angles such as saying the individual has unpaid taxes or their Social Security or Medicare benefits are in danger of being cut off.  They then demand payment (in the case of unpaid taxes) or ask for personal identifying information, which is then used to commit fraud. These impersonators often “spoof” the actual phone numbers of the government agency, or call from the same area code for Washington, DC, tricking the victim into believing the call is legitimate.

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 numbers, or Medicare and other financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call or know the person.  

Other commonsense advice includes being wary of high-pressure salespersons, 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.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: ncoa.org/article/top-10-financial-scams-targeting-seniors

Welcome Home to MorningStar of Santa Fe

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe is committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our residents.  Once you learn more about our community, we are sure you will agree that MorningStar of Santa Fe is senior living at its best.  In fact, the MorningStar Senior Living Company was founded by Ken Jaeger as the fulfillment of his dream to create senior housing defined by the human touch and a sense of family.  We believe our community has achieved that dream and is a true home for our remarkable residents.  

To ensure we meet our residents’ needs, we are deliberate about the individuals we hire to become part of our distinguished team.  Every new employee is carefully vetted and chosen for virtues such as kindness, selflessness, and character.  We look for people who are committed to perfecting the art of anticipating needs and willingly go the extra mile to serve.  

Once team members are hired, they are trained in “Radiance,” which is much more than just a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart.  With a tagline of “Service Becomes Us,” it is used to guide the way we deliver service – with sincerity and depth of purpose.  Also, its precepts enhance the loving atmosphere of our home.

We encourage you to visit our website and view our virtual tour that shows off our beautiful spaces as well as background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living.  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.    Looking at the images, can you imagine yourself sitting in our attractive full-service dining room eating delicious meals created by our Executive Chef or watching a favorite film in our comfortable theater? 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers 56 stylish, private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans to meet our residents’ preferences and needs.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we provide another 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information about the finest senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

Trusted Memory Care at MorningStar of Albuquerque

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 of Albuquerque 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 the future will 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. 

MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings.

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as solutions to challenging behaviors.  For trusted memory care or assisted living Albuquerque, MN seniors and their families can count on, please contact us for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

The Benefits of Having Executive Chefs on Staff at MorningStar Senior Living

Your senior living community should understand the importance of providing a comfortable and supportive environment for residents but also the importance of nutrition and healthy eating for seniors. With our executive chefs on staff, MorningStar of Sparks, NV is able to provide the very best delicious and nutritious meals in senior living Sparks has to offer its senior residents. Our staff is also available to meet with residents and their families to discuss any dietary concerns or preferences, and provide nutrition education and counseling. This can provide peace of mind for families, knowing that their loved one is receiving the best food options and services to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

One of the main benefits of assisted living at MorningStar is the availability of healthy food options. Our community is proud to have executive chefs on staff who are dedicated to creating delicious and nutritious meals for our residents. They use high-quality ingredients and prepare meals that are tailored to meet the dietary needs of our residents. We offer a variety of meal options, including vegetarian and low-sugar options, to ensure that our residents can find something that they enjoy and that fits their dietary needs.

In addition, our chefs are available to meet with residents and their families to discuss any dietary concerns or preferences. They are dedicated to creating meals that are not only nutritious but also delicious. We understand that food is an essential part of life and it is a pleasure to be able to provide our residents with delicious and healthy meals, which is why we strive to provide the best food options and services to our residents.

Contact us today if you want to know more of the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and assisted living Sparks NV has seen. MorningStar Assisted Living Retirement Homes in Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our senior living community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Sparks, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Nevada. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable assisted living East Reno, Nevada has to offer.

Learn More About Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque

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 assisted living 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 assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away.   Another perk of MorningStar of Albuquerque is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor’s appointments and other important errands.  

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary from studios to two-bedrooms, all 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 the maintenance required.  Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.

Located on the northeast side of town, MorningStar of Albuquerque has wonderful mountain views and is convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and other services.  We have 48 stylish suites for assisted living and another 21 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For more information on exceptional senior living in Albuquerque, please visit our website. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.