Are You Worried About Your Parents Getting the Care They Need?

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 getting them settled into a community and then face another move if their needs can no longer 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 Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe, 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 (either in person or virtually) 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 medical facilities, shopping and other services.  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 Santa Fe, 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. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Santa Fe, NM.
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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 Santa Fe, NM offers.

The Surprising Cost Effectiveness of Assisted Living Communities

With the rising cost of living, you may be wondering how your senior parent or elderly loved one can continue to afford to live alone. Assisted living communities like MorningStar Senior Living, are surprisingly affordable for assisted living care when you consider the bundling of services and amenities. MorningStar is a senior living community that is committed to providing top-notch care, luxurious amenities, and a vibrant lifestyle at a competitive price. Our all-inclusive packages cover various services, including accommodation, meals, housekeeping, transportation, and personalized care plans. By bundling these services, we offer cost savings and eliminate the stress of managing multiple bills.

Assisted living communities, Like MorningStar of Sparks, often provide all-inclusive services, including utilities like electricity and water, as part of their monthly fees. This means that seniors can enjoy a comfortable living environment with regulated temperatures without worrying about the financial burden of high energy bills. Assisted living communities also remove the worry and stress of remembering to pay monthly bills. Even with helping your parents or loved one, remembering multiple sets of bills becomes overwhelming and can often be forgotten about until they are past due which comes with fees. 

In assisted living, seniors often have access to shared living spaces and amenities such as communal dining areas, activity rooms, and lounges. These areas are centrally cooled or heated, efficiently managing temperature control for multiple residents. This can significantly reduce individual energy usage compared to maintaining a private home. Also, these rooms encourage community involvement and host regular activities that come included in every resident’s package. There are daily meals, an exercise room, and hobbies to explore that come free of charge. 

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they 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. 
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To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Reno, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions. 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 Sparks, Nevada offers.

MorningStar’s Philanthropic Initiatives at Home and Around the World

MorningStar of Albuquerque is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start by creating a true home for the residents in our communities, made possible by a dedicated team who understand the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, time and energy with others. 

The scope of our Vision to love and honor also includes impacting the world for good through the MorningStar Foundation, and offering support to philanthropic initiatives within our local neighborhoods and around the world. One such project is our support to the people of Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We serve not only the children of the Casa Bernabé orphanage but holistically serve the impoverished area. We also are proud to support Lifewater, whose Healthy Village strategy focuses not just on their delivery of a safe water point, but on the villagers’ monitored adoption of hygiene habits in each and every home.

Closer to home, MorningStar’s senior living communities are great supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association. We participate in events throughout the year including the “Longest Day Celebration” (summer solstice), which will be on June 21st this year. Our uplifting celebrations include hosting fundraisers of every sort, balloon releases, games, food and more. Additionally, our communities participate in the “Walk to End Alzheimer's,” either by walking, sponsoring or hosting other creative ways to raise funds. Other efforts include doing our share by volunteering with local nonprofits to help where there is a need. 

MorningStar’s goal is to provide the best memory care and assisted living in Albuquerque, NM, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  Our beautiful community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites and 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  We also offer short-term stays to see if we are a good fit as well as respite care. Please contact us for availability and pricing. 
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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 memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

When to Consider a Memory Care Community

A Place for Mom’s website explains how many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia can live independently with or without the help of in-home caregivers or family members. However, they also stress there may come a time when the disease progresses to a stage where the person’s safety and physical well-being is in jeopardy and more care is needed. 

As a person with Alzheimer’s may have good days and bad, it can be hard to tell if they would be better served in a memory care community. Experts say signs include: has their appearance changed? Do they look unkempt and have they lost weight due to forgetting to eat? Do they appear agitated and confused? Are they unable to carry on a conversation?  

Your loved one’s healthcare provider can help you decide if it is time for memory care. Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says, “When talking about memory care, or some form of a different living arrangement, I’ll center the talk around their ability to perform the activities of daily living and safety.” 

A Place for Mom says to gauge a senior’s abilities and safety, your doctor may ask if they:

• Get lost on routes they take frequently, such as going to the grocery store or taking a walk around the neighborhood

• Have trouble remembering to eat or drink

• Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately

• Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual

• Had a fall or been to the emergency room recently

• Leave the stove on after preparing food​

MorningStar’s goal is to provide the best senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers, which includes compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia to the most advanced stages.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please see our website for more information about MorningStar of Santa Fe.
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MorningStar of Santa Fe’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Santa Fe, NM has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

How to Avoid Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke for Seniors

It's essential to address heat-related concerns regarding senior health and wellness. With the summer quickly approaching, it’s important to be observant of the symptoms and warning signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in seniors. Assisted living communities like MorningStar Senior Living offer a safe and comfortable environment for seniors during the summer by addressing these worries so that seniors and their families can enjoy a worry-free and enjoyable summer season.​

Seniors are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. As people age, their ability to regulate body temperature decreases and the body's natural cooling mechanisms, such as sweating, may not be as efficient in seniors. Because of this, it’s harder for seniors to cool down in hot weather. Make sure your loved one is staying hydrated and taking many breaks if they are outdoors this summer. Try to bring shaded protection if you’re worried about your parent or loved one getting too hot on walks or other outdoor activities.

Seniors often have underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory problems that may make it difficult for seniors to regulate their body temperatures. These conditions can affect the body's response to heat and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Additionally, certain medications like diuretics, beta-blockers, and antihistamines can interfere with heat regulation and hydration. MorningStar’s 24/7 on-site senior living staff are skilled in observing the early signs of heat exhaustion in seniors and are aware of the medications seniors may be taking that could hinder their ability to stay out in the sun for long periods of time.

Given these factors, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect seniors from heat-related illnesses. This includes ensuring proper hydration, providing a cool environment, encouraging frequent breaks in shaded areas, and monitoring their well-being during hot weather. Assisted living communities like MorningStar Senior Living prioritize the safety and well-being of seniors, implementing strategies to prevent heat-related illnesses and providing necessary support to residents.

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they 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. 
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To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Reno, 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 for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Sparks, Nevada has to offer.

Be an Active Member of Your Health Care Team

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude. 

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ office or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume. 

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask. 

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.  

For outstanding senior living, Albuquerque, NM seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar. Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or see our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque.

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.
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Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

As the Temperatures Soar – Remember to Stay Hydrated

With summer bringing hotter, steamier temperatures, it is a good time to remind everyone, especially seniors to protect themselves from dehydration, which happens when our bodies lose more fluid than it takes in. Dr. Samuel Keim, a professor and head of the department of emergency medicine at the University of Arizona, explains one of the reasons adults 70 and older are more at risk for dehydration is “a diminished thirst mechanism and a decreased ability to compensate for high-temperature environments.” He adds this means seniors are less likely to feel thirsty or realize they are becoming dehydrated.

Moreover, many seniors suffer from medical conditions such as respiratory ailments, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease exacerbating the problem. Also medications like anticholinergics or antihistamines disrupt the body’s natural reflexes and reduce its heat tolerance causing a person to sweat less. Other problematic drugs include diuretic medications that increase the amount of water and salt expelled from the body as urine or beta blockers that interfere with the body’s natural response to becoming dehydrated. 

Heat-exhaustion symptoms can include fatigue, thirst, profuse sweating, lightheadedness, cramps, nausea and weakness, and need to be addressed immediately as they can lead to heat stroke, which can be deadly. Dr. Keim says, "A heat index over 100 degrees is a high-risk environment for heat stroke." Treatment includes getting the person out of the heat into a cool location and removing heavy clothing. Spraying the person with water and directing a fan on them also helps. Seek emergency attention if the person is confused or fainting but continue to treat the person until help arrives. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a beautiful senior living community located on the northeast side of town with wonderful mountain views and convenient medical facilities, shopping, and other services.  Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors.  For more information about MorningStar’s memory care and assisted living in Albuquerque, NM, please contact us or visit our website. 
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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.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/hot-weather-health-tips

Father’s Day is June 18th

Father’s Day was first officially celebrated in the United State on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington.  It then took another 58 years (in 1972) after President Woodrow Wilson had declared Mother’s Day to be an official holiday for dads to get their own official national holiday.  This year Father’s Day is June 18, as the holiday is celebrated on the third Sunday of the month.   

The earliest public event honoring fathers was in 1908 at a West Virginia church.  It was held in memory of 362 area men who had been killed in a tragic coal mine accident the year before.  It was a one-time commemoration and not intended to be an annual holiday.   

The first recognized celebration of all fathers took place at the Spokane, WA YMCA on June 19, 1910.  It was organized by Sonora Smart Dodd.  Her father, William Jackson Smart was a single parent who raised six children.  Ms. Dodd had heard a sermon about the Mother’s Day celebration at Central Methodist Episcopal Church a year earlier and encouraged her church to have a similar event honoring fathers.  She had wanted it to be on her father’s birthday, June 5th, but her church’s pastors needed more time to prepare sermons so it was held on the third Sunday of the month.   

Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts and certainly deserve to have their “own day;” however getting fathers nationally recognized was not as easy as it had been to get a designated national holiday for mothers.  Throughout the years there were efforts to make it a national holiday but it never moved forward.  It wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson issued a presidential proclamation honoring fathers, and designated the third Sunday as Father’s Day.  In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed the holiday into law. 

For exceptional assisted living and memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Albuquerque. Our beautiful community is designed to meet residents’ every need.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. Please see our website for more information about trusted senior living in Albuquerque, 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 for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

REMIND YOUR SENIOR LOVED ONE IS STILL LOVED

When a loved one goes to live in an assisted living facility, it can be difficult to maintain the same close relationship you both shared when your loved one lived at home and enjoyed a more independent lifestyle. However, maintaining a close relationship with your senior loved one is even more important when the time comes to transition into living at an assisted living facility.

At our memory care facility in Phoenix, we emphasize the importance of friends and family members staying in close touch with their senior loved ones. This is an especially important point for seniors who have just moved into a senior living facility in Phoenix, Arizona.

Let’s see how to remind your senior loved one is still loved.

Schedule Regular Visits

Routine becomes an integral part of your senior loved one’s life when making the transition to living in an assisted living facility. Meals take place at the same time each day, and certain social events occur on the same day and time weekly and monthly. Scheduling regular visits with your loved one gives your loved one something to look forward to at the same time and day each week. Following a routine also keeps you accountable to uphold your end of the bargain when reminding your senior loved one is still loved.

Send Your Love Through the Mail

Catching up with your senior loved one via email is an effective way to stay in touch, but it is also an impersonal way to say, “I love you.” On the other hand, sending gifts through snail mail does a much better job of reminding your senior loved one is still loved. You do not have to wait for a holiday, birthday, or anniversary to send a gift via snail mail. Receiving an unexpected pleasant surprise from a friend or family member is a good way to light up the life of a senior loved one living in an assisted living facility.

Get the Grandchildren Involved

If your senior loved one has grandchildren, nothing will light up your senior loved one’s eyes more than spending time with grandchildren. Your senior loved one has demonstrated a strong bond of love with the grandkids, and now the time has arrived to pass it back through the love shared by your senior loved one’s grandchildren. Either plan a special event for all family members, grandchildren included, at the assisted living facility, or even better, plan a celebration outside of our memory care facility in Phoenix, AZ.

Work on a Mutual Hobby

One of the most effective strategies that caregivers recommend for improving memory involves participating in activities that work the mind. Activities such as crossword puzzles, as well as board games like chess and checks, help seniors keep their minds active. Another way to help your senior loved one keep an active mind is to work on a mutual hobby. Maybe you and your senior loved one both like to work on developing a garden. Whatever the activity, spending time with your senior loved one demonstrates that you care.

The mission statement at MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia is both simple and life-enriching: “To honor, to value, to invest.” Our team has created a foundation based on honoring God, while placing an immeasurable value on taking care of our residents. Discover how our senior living facility in Phoenix is the right home for your loved one by submitting the short Contact form found on our website.

MAKE SURE YOUR SENIOR GETS ENOUGH REST EVERY NIGHT

Did you know that we spend about one-third of our lives sleeping, or at least that is how much time we should spend in slumber to maintain our health and well-being? A good night’s sleep is one of the successful ingredients for the recipe to aging successfully. According to the National Sleep Foundation, seniors should sleep at least seven hours of sleep each night to stay both mentally and physically strong as they age.

Unfortunately, far too many seniors carry poor sleeping habits into their Golden Years.

What Are the Common Sleep Issues for Seniors?

Research studies indicate that as many as 70 percent of seniors have chronic sleep issues, with nearly 50 percent of the cases remaining undiagnosed. Several types of sleep issues diminish both the quality and quantity of sleep for seniors.

First, pain and discomfort represent one of the most common sleep issues faced by seniors. Second, many seniors have to deal with nocturia, which causes frequent nighttime urination. Up to 80 percent of seniors have to deal with the sleep disrupter called nocturia. Third, insomnia, which is difficulty falling asleep, can be treated by different methods. Fourth, sleep apnea leads to fragmented sleep in which a senior wakes up frequently during the night. Finally, restless leg syndrome, which is the urge to move the legs while sleeping, impacts more than 20 percent of seniors.

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia helps our residents identify and then address sleep issues before they become major health problems.

Tips for Seniors to Sleep Better

One of the most effective ways to develop better sleep habits is to go to bed at the same time each evening. The body works on a schedule, and following the schedule can help your senior get enough rest every night. Another important tip concerns turning off all sources of stimuli at least one hour before bedtime. This includes turning off your senior’s computer, television, and smartphone. The bedroom should be dark, quiet, and exude a relaxing ambiance. Listening to audio that promotes a relaxing environment represents a good way to unwind. 

Exercise during the day can help a senior fall asleep, but your senior should stop giving the body a workout at least two hours before bedtime. Your senior should not consume a large meal before bedtime, as well as limit or eliminate caffeine from the daily diet.

Why Does Sleep Matter?

Getting enough sleep boosts mood, and thus, reduces the likelihood of your senior developing a mental health condition such as depression and/or acute anxiety. Lack of productive sleep can lead to the development of diseases like diabetes, as well as contribute to the development of high blood pressure. A well-rested senior’s body maintains the proper weight, as well as supports the ideal metabolism rate. A good night’s sleep enhances memory and concentration, both of which deteriorate with the onset of dementia.

One of the lesser-known benefits of proper sleep for seniors concerns the removal of harmful toxins. The brain remains active during sleep and the toxins released need to be cleared by getting enough healthy sleep. According to Dr. Maiken Nedergaard of the Center for Translational Neuromedicine at the University of Rochester Medical Center, “Sleep is critical to the function of the brain’s waste removal system…These findings also add to the increasingly clear evidence that quality of sleep or sleep deprivation can predict the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

At our senior and memory care facility in Phoenix, Arizona, we dedicate both time and resources to help our residents develop the healthiest sleep habits. Learn more about the warm, loving environment at MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia by submitting the short Contact form.

LOOKING FOR MEMORY CARE NEAR PHOENIX, AZ?

Are you looking for memory care near Phoenix, Arizona? At MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia, we are here to help your senior loved one address memory loss issues in a warm, welcoming environment.

Taking care of a loved one who develops the symptoms of dementia can be difficult to do. From handling the emotional roller coaster ride to keeping your senior on the right path for treatment, the stress of taking care of a loved one who has developed memory loss symptoms can become overwhelming. However, relying on a team of memory care specialists to provide assisted living services for your senior loved one should alleviate the tremendous burden that you carry on your shoulders.

A highly-rated memory care facility not only assumes the responsibility of encouraging independent living for your senior, but it also ensures the comfort and safety of your loved one to give you the ultimate peace of mind. The question is not whether you should find the right memory care facility for your loved one. Instead, the question should be, what do you look for in the right assisted living facility in Phoenix, AZ?

Home Sweet Home

Moving your senior from the comfort of a home environment to an unknown facility can trigger a wide variety of negative emotions. The first factor to consider when choosing the best memory care facility in Phoenix, Arizona involves finding the venue that reminds your loved one of home. Stay away from facilities that present an austere ambiance, such as one that includes harsh fluorescent lighting and/or white linoleum floors. A facility that exudes charm, while projecting a social ambiance, is a good choice for your senior loved one.

Compassionate and Knowledgeable Staff

Every staff member at a memory care facility should possess the knowledge required to provide the highest quality of dementia care. Ask the facility manager how much training each staff member receives, as well as how long they receive updates on the latest proven techniques for treating and managing memory loss symptoms. Although staff knowledge is one of, if not the most important factor to consider before choosing an assisted living facility, you also should ensure the staff members at a facility display compassion for the residents. You cannot measure compassion as accurately as measuring knowledge. 

Nonetheless, spend plenty of time with the staff members responsible for providing memory care to gain insight into their empathy for residents.

Active Social Calendar

One of the most effective tools assisted living facilities use to attract residents involves promoting their social calendars. Social interactions with other residents should boost the awareness of your senior loved one. Activity calendars should include programs that keep residents busy not only during the week, but on weekends as well. Providing your senior loved one with numerous opportunities to engage with other residents empowers your loved one to remain busy, which stimulates both the mind and body.

Around-the-Clock Registered Nurse Availability

Seniors that suffer from memory loss require constant monitoring to ensure optimal health. Unfortunately, many memory loss facilities retain the services of a registered nurse during normal business hours, while CNAs take over healthcare responsibilities for the remaining hours of the day. Make sure any assisted living facility in Phoenix, AZ on your shortlist of candidates spends the money required to retain the services of at least one registered nurse 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

Submit the brief online form to learn more about how MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia can help your senior loved one address memory loss issues.

6 GOOD BRAIN GAMES FOR SENIORS

When you think of exercise, you probably think about the many options you have to work out the body. As we age, physical exercise becomes even more important to help us maintain strength and agility.

Did you know that exercising your brain is just as important as exercising your body?

According to the National Institutes of Health, exercising the brain can improve memory, reasoning, and the speed of processing information. Other studies show that seniors who exercise the brain enjoy greater independence and a lower risk of developing dementia. One of the most effective ways to exercise the brain involves playing what mental health experts call brain games.

If you are searching for an assisted living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, you should verify that any of the senior housing facilities on your shortlist promote healthy brain games for their guests.

Let’s look at six good brain games for seniors.

Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles do a great job of exercising the brain because they require developing keen foresight to see how words form several steps before the time comes to create them. Your senior loved one can find crossword puzzles in a wide variety of print publications. Crossword puzzles do not require the participation of another person, which means your senior loved one can work on one at any time during the day.

Bingo

We go from crossword puzzles that can be done alone to a good brain game that requires the participation of dozens of other people. Many assisted living facilities host bingo night, which attracts a large group of residents. Bingo requires staying on top of the numbers you have in front of you, as well as reacting quickly whenever one of your numbers gets called out. Senior centers typically put on a bingo night once a month as well.

Checkers

The next two good brain games provide the ultimate tests of exercising brain power. Checkers is a fun game to play, as well as a relatively easy one to learn for seniors. This good brain game is less about developing strategy and more about the process of making logic-based decisions and improving hand-eye coordination. Games sets come in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate the vision needs of seniors.

Chess

Chess represents a much more complex game than checkers because of the multiple layers of strategy involved in moving the pieces around the board. However, learning chess is highly beneficial because it improves problem-solving skills, as well as enhances deductive reasoning. Chess even can improve your senior’s patience, which is something that often diminishes as we grow older.

Scrabble

As the classic brain game associated with seniors, playing Scrabble is an entertaining activity while at the same time giving memory a robust workout. Scrabble also is one of the best games for improving or restoring a senior’s vocabulary. This good brain game brings together seniors, which is a plus considering the isolation that can develop while living apart from family members.

Jigsaw Puzzles

Your senior loved one can work on a jigsaw puzzle alone or with one or more friends. Jigsaw puzzles strengthen problem-solving and strategy-developing skills, while also requiring your senior loved one to exhibit a high level of patience. This good brain game varies in complexity, depending on the number of pieces and the type of picture design.At the MorningStar Arcadia assisted living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, our culture is “to honor, to value, to invest” in our residents. This type of culture separates us from other memory care facilities in Phoenix, AZ. Learn more about our beautiful community by submitting the online Contact form.

4 NUTRITIOUS MEALS SENIORS LOVE

“You are what you eat.”

You have heard the expression at least one time, but what exactly does it mean? Perhaps a better expression is “Your health depends on what you eat.” This is especially true for seniors who tend to lose interest in cooking as they reach their golden years. However, getting enough minerals and nutrients, as well as remaining properly hydrated, are the key to enjoying a healthy senior lifestyle.

Getting enough minerals and nutrients also is a plus for promoting robust brain power. Certain vitamins enhance the functioning of the brain, as well as improve the cardiovascular system. Each of the following four nutritious meals seniors love can be called both brain and body food that keeps your loved one healthy.

As the best memory care facility in Phoenix, Morningstar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia ensures our residents receive the right amounts of healthy foods such as the following four nutritious meals provide.

Salmon and Vegetables

This recipe, which showcases salmon and vegetables, is easy to complete. Salmon represents a low-calorie protein that is a rich source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and energy-producing B vitamins. You also can cook trout or tilapia instead of salmon to benefit from heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Saute the veggies of your choice in olive oil, while baking the salmon filet in a 450-degree oven. Finish the veggies in the oven with the salmon until the salmon turns flaky and presents an opaque appearance.

Berry Chicken Salad

Your senior loved one does not have to develop award-winning culinary skills to create any of the four dishes on this list, but the berry chicken salad is an especially easy recipe to complete. This recipe calls for cooked chicken, which can be the leftovers from another meal. Mix mayo, sugar, and tarragon in a salad bowl before adding blueberries and strawberries. You also should consider adding both peas and celery for both nutrition and texture reasons.

Blend the chicken in last and store the salad in the refrigerator until it is time for lunch or dinner.

Veggie Stir-Fry

This is another popular dish that takes more time to prepare than to cook. Select your favorite veggies and then dice or slice each one before setting them in a bowl where olive oil waits for coating. The sauce includes water, honey, orange juice, fresh ginger, and low-sodium soy sauce. Saute the veggies in the olive oil coating before adding the sauce to cover both the veggies and the protein of your choice, which can be shrimp, chicken, or heart-healthy tofu.

Quiche

As one of the most versatile types of nutritious meals seniors love, quiche can be served at any meal. The relatively inexpensive nutritious meal for seniors includes a leafy green such as spinach, which provides iron, magnesium, and manganese, as well as heart-healthy like vitamins A, C, and K. Your senior loved one can find an appealing quiche recipe in most cookbooks, as well as online at food-centric websites.

After mixing the ingredients, which consist of eggs and some type of protein, place the quiche in an oven set at the temperature listed in the recipe.

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia offers a warm, loving atmosphere, as well as spectacular scenery and resort-like amenities. Our foundation values include a commitment to honoring God and serving the residences of our highly-rated community. Get the answers to your senior living in Phoenix questions by submitting the convenient form found on our website.

Is a Loved One Having Memory Problems?

If your mom or dad or another loved one is having serious memory problems, we have some suggestions to help you navigate through this trying time.  Medical experts recommend doing some research on Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, to educate yourself on how the disease is diagnosed, stages of the disease, and some of what your family can expect if it is.  You may want to visit websites such as the Alzheimer’s Association as well as online support groups for family members dealing with the disease for suggestions on how to best prepare and support your parents.  

Also, remember it may not be dementia as there are medical conditions, reactions to medications, and nutritional and hormonal issues that can cause dementia-like symptoms.  Therefore, you need to sit down and have a talk with your parents about the problems they are having and the need to make an appointment with their healthcare provider for a full medical exam.   

Experts say when you are ready to have the “conversation,” be honest and try to keep your voice calm.  Pick a time and place where you will not be interrupted and be sure to include in your homework different care options in case they ask.  Also, be ready to talk less and listen more as they may have also been worried about some of the changes they have been experiencing.  However, keep in mind it is common for a person to be confused, in denial, and/or withdraw.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia related disease is devastating, and we want area families to know we are here to help shoulder the burden. Our goal is to provide the best assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers, which includes specialized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Have Questions About Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque?

MorningStar at Albuquerque’s goal is to provide the best assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers, and we understand that deciding which community is right for you is a big step for a senior.  This is why we encourage interested families to give us a call to discuss any questions you may have and/or to inquire about availability.  In addition, our website is filled with lots of pertinent information regarding amenities, services, floorplans, and more.  

Our website even has a dedicated page for FAQs under our “First Steps” tab.  Here you will find answers to commonly asked questions such as age requirements (in our assisted living and memory care suites, you must be at least 55 years old).  You will also discover important information on how a resident’s level of care is determined and our pricing structure.  

FAQs include practical queries such as, yes, we will help you find a physician if you need one whether it is a primary care doctor or a specialty healthcare provider like an Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist. And yes, we do provide transportation to doctor appointments as needed, and our transportation vehicles can accommodate a walker or wheelchair. 

You and your family may also want to know about the type of training our staff receives, and we go over that too.   Care Managers complete an orientation program (including a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, 8-hour dementia training, and ongoing training in specific care needs.  Each of our Medication Managers (QMAPs) is additionally trained in medication administration.   
FAQs go over senior housing options such as Companion Living that allows two unrelated adults of the same sex to share a suite, and of course, married couples are welcome!  MorningStar of Albuquerque also offers short-term stays based on availability that allows someone to get an idea of whether senior living is right for them.  

Please visit our website for contact information, to set up a tour, or to get answers to any other questions.  We look forward to hearing from you.  
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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 assisted living Albuquerque has to offer.

MorningStar of Santa Fe Offers Memory Care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe offers experienced memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   Our compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.  

The Reflections Neighborhood is designed in full consideration of the dispositions and behaviors of those with memory impairment and encourages independence for our most tender residents with clear wayfinding; and safe, inviting common areas. Residents receive daily health monitoring and 24/7 care along with access to a licensed nurse and more supportive third-party service providers. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  

All our employees, regardless of their position, will receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents.  The eight hours of training include the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.  

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.  

Please contact us for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Santa Fe, NM and all the amenities and services we provide. We look forward to hearing from you.

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 Santa Fe, NM offers.

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Santa Fe, NM

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into a senior living community, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives.   

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with a handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system and is smartly designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents.  Assisted living also includes housekeeping and laundry services, trash removal and full access to all onsite amenities.
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Our holistic approach to senior living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassion.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.

In addition, many elderly adults who live alone find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living at our beautiful community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover, if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that with scheduled transportation.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe offers memory care, respite stays as well as trial stays to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us for more information.  Not only is our team happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history and mission as well as what sets us apart from other 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. Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Albuquerque

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating and we want families to know we are here to help. Our community offers loving, compassionate care to those with memory impairment in our Reflections Neighborhood. The MorningStar Senior Living company brings 20 years of experience to memory care in senior communities across eleven states.  

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available.  We are different from other communities in that every aspect of our memory care is designed from the ground up to accommodate residents. Secure and inviting, the Reflections Neighborhood gives residents as much freedom as possible. 

Through the rigors of MorningStar’s Lavender Sky training, our staff truly understands Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-loss conditions; and after a family decides to place a loved one in our care, we get to work. This starts by learning as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and personal preferences through a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” Using this information, we create a specialized, individualized care plan that helps to calm or stimulate as a particular situation needs. 

Meals are attractively served, and tasty as well as nutritional. Many foods are easily eaten with fingers to accommodate those who may have trouble using a fork and knife. In addition, our wellness programs keep residents purposefully engaged and leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort, as we focus on residents’ unique needs.         

Along with memory care, we offer assisted living as well as respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month). Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted seniors living in Albuquerque.

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 offers.

Help Aging Parents Manage Their Medications

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking at least one or more prescription medications daily.  In fact, the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “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 refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interactions, an area of special concern for the elderly.  

Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state almost 450,000 older adults (65 years old or older) visit the emergency room each year because of adverse, or harmful, drug events.  Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “take on an empty stomach,” and the adverse side effects. 

Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them.  Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs.  The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous taken together.  Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork.   

Store medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense for your parent’s needs.  If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system.  However, if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored. 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern.  This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents take medications properly, and as we even order medications, there is no danger of them running out.  Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional memory care and assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

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 memory care 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.

Explore Your Hobbies at MorningStar Senior Living

Our bodies and minds require a little extra TLC as we get older. It's essential to prioritize our health and wellness to maintain a high quality of life by relaxing and stimulating our brains. That's why it's important to choose a senior living community that prioritizes the same values. At MorningStar at Sparks in Nevada, their team members prioritize senior health and wellness by promoting hobby exploration for mental stimulation.

One of the key ways that we support the mental well-being of our residents is through a commitment to reading and other forms of mental stimulation. Studies have shown that reading improves cognitive function, reduces stress, and even staves off cognitive decline in older adults. That's why we make sure that our residents always have access to a variety of reading materials, from books and magazines to newspapers and other periodicals. Check out our library sometime!

In addition to providing reading materials, we also offer a variety of opportunities for residents to engage in mental stimulation and creative pursuits. Our book clubs, for example, are a popular way for residents to come together and discuss their favorite reads, share ideas, and connect with each other over a shared love of literature. We also offer a variety of creative classes, such as painting, drawing, and other artistic pursuits, that allow residents to explore their creativity and express themselves in new ways.

Of course, at MorningStar at Sparks, we understand that physical health is just as important as mental wellness when it comes to senior care. Our variety of fitness and wellness programs help our residents stay active and healthy. Our community is equipped with a state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with a variety of exercise equipment and plenty of space for seniors to engage in a variety of physical activities, from yoga and walks on our outdoor paths.
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Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they 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 Reno, 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 for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Sparks, Nevada has to offer.