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Increase Bone Strength With a Healthy Diet

January 15, 2024 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

The Mayo Clinic explains our bodies constantly absorb and replace bone tissue. When a person has osteoporosis, their body is removing old bone but not keeping up with making new bone. Early warning signs of osteoporosis include bone fractures, lost height, curved back, sudden back pain and gastrointestinal problems. However, many people have no symptoms, and it isn’t until a bone fracture or a bone density test (measuring the proportion of minerals in the bones), do they learn they have osteoporosis. A step above osteoporosis is osteopenia, which affects approximately half of Americans over age 50.  

It is important to work with your doctor if your bone loss has progressed to osteoporosis as there are medications that can help build stronger bones. In addition, you can help increase bone strength with a healthy diet of foods high in calcium, vitamins D and K, and protein. Foods containing calcium include dairy and soy, fish and green leafy vegetables like kale. Additionally, many foods are fortified with calcium so check labels. Protein is found in meat, fish, eggs, soy and dairy products, beans, lentils, and legumes as well as seeds and nuts. Experts recommend people over age 70 increase their uptake of vitamin D to 800 IU daily, which they can also obtain from supplements. 

Consuming a lot of salt should be avoided as the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports overconsumption of salt can cause the kidneys to excrete calcium. Studies indicate consuming caffeine in coffee or caffeinated drinks can additionally interfere with the body’ absorption of calcium and it is recommended older adults limit their coffee intake to no more than three cups a day. Limiting alcohol also helps maintain bone health.    

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 senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.


Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/osteoporosis-diet#diet-and-bone-health

January 15, 2024 /MS Arcadia
senior living, senior living community, senior community
Senior Living

Welcome Home to MorningStar of Albuquerque

January 12, 2024 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

MorningStar of Albuquerque offers private assisted living suites that are specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors who wish to retain their independence but require some help each day.  Once you decide that MorningStar is the place you want to call “home,” you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director to discuss your needs and set up an individualized care plan that ensures your comfort, well-being and safety. 

Some of the services we provide include help with daily personal activities such as bathing and grooming, 24-hour care managers and a licensed nurse available 24/7.  We also provide regular care plan reviews, medication management, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, pharmacy services, and much more.  Each MorningStar Care Level has its own monthly fee and is based on the cost and time it takes to provide the service.    

In addition, we know that a good diet is important to keep seniors healthy, which is why we have a trained Executive Chef on staff that will create daily meals that are both tasty and nutritional.  Our menu is tailored to accommodate various needs and tastes and includes low sodium, sugar free, vegetarian and low-fat choices.  We feel breaking bread together offers far more than physical nutrients – it helps to bond us together as family and friends.

Our beautifully designed community has plenty of common areas to sit and relax or enjoy a pleasant conversation with a friend.  To keep residents as busy as they want to be, our calendar is loaded with a wide range of activities and wellness programs including exercise classes, games, live entertainment and special events. We offer scheduled transportation services and special outings to local parks, shopping and other recreational venues.   

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque, NM’s MorningStar community offers specialized care in our Reflections Neighborhood for residents with memory impairment.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us for information about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

January 12, 2024 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, assisted living community, senior living
assisted living

When You Eat a Breakfast With Protein, You Stay Full and Satisfied Longer

January 10, 2024 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

How many times have you eaten breakfast, and after an hour or two, you start to feel hungry? Many breakfast options involve foods such as cereals, breads and granola bars that are high in refined grains and sugar. To solve the problem, nutritionists say you should add protein to every meal including your breakfast. 

When you eat a breakfast with protein, you feel fuller and more satisfied for a longer period of time and less apt to reach for high-calorie snacks mid-day. Registered dietician, Lisa Jones, explains an adult’s daily intake of protein should be between 10% and 35% of the calories consumed. She adds, “For example, if your nutritional needs call for 2,000 calories daily, you should get 200 to 700 calories from protein, or 50 to 175 grams.” 

One suggestion for an easy-to-do, protein-rich breakfast is avocado and fried egg on a bagel or enriched whole-grain slice of toast. Omelets are also fairly easy and can be assembled with a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, spinach and bacon. You can increase the protein in a bowl of oatmeal by adding a scoop of protein powder and topping it with almond milk and berries. Try other creative options such as smoked salmon on a toasted whole wheat English muffin spread with cream cheese, or a Greek yogurt parfait layered with granola, nuts, and fruit.  Nutritionists say another incentive for eating protein in the morning is it may help you lose weight as you feel more satisfied for a longer period.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a luxury 55+ community with 48 assisted living suites for residents who need help with the activities of daily living. In addition, we have 21 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years.  We are committed to providing the best senior living in Albuquerque, and invite you to set up a tour to see our beautiful home.   

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, NM offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/high-protein-breakfast

January 10, 2024 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, senior living, senior living community
Senior Living

Losing Weight Gets Harder as We Get Older

December 25, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Experts say it isn’t just our imagination that losing weight gets harder the older we become but is most likely due to having less muscle mass, which burns more calories than fat. To help, they offer easy tips on how to painlessly replace calorie-laden foods with healthier, lower-calorie substitutes. In addition to the fact that nutrient-rich foods appear to help individuals be successful in their quest to lose weight, meals do not necessarily have to be smaller than your average intake. 

Dietitians suggest an easy food swap is to drink water flavored with lemon slices or sparkling water rather than sugary sodas. One study found that by replacing refined grains with whole grains it “improved blood cholesterol levels and decreased percent of body fat in postmenopausal women.” Replacing sugary granola with heart-healthy oatmeal can also help control your weight. Not only is oatmeal a good source of soluble fiber known to reduce cholesterol but it contains magnesium and potassium known to promote healthy blood pressure. Also, dietitians suggest trying sprouted grain breads, which many find tastier and healthier than even whole-grain breads.

Other ways to get healthier and lose weight is to include more plant-based foods into your diet. Make a pledge to have a couple of meatless dinners each week and get your protein from bean burgers, lentils, and quinoa instead of hamburgers and steaks. To get more veggies into your diet, top your bean burger with spinach or lettuce, tomato slices and mushrooms instead of cheese. Rather than pasta, use squash or zucchini noodles.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe is a 55+ community offering seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.  Amenities include a fitness room, healthy meals served restaurant-style, enrichment activities, and more. Remarkable for our beautiful surroundings and luxury amenities, we are most proud of our dedicated team who understand it is a privilege to care for seniors.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living 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 for more information about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/slideshows/11-healthy-food-swaps-to-lose-weight?slide=2

December 25, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, memory care, senior living
Senior Living

Memory Care at MorningStar of Santa Fe

December 22, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Memory care

MorningStar offers unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  Along with 56 private assisted living suites, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   MorningStar of Santa Fe’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help.  Our memory care area is in a separate area specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings safely and easily.  Within the safe haven of our Reflections Neighborhood, we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. 

Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents.  Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Thus, each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information about compassionate, loving memory care in Santa Fe.

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.

December 22, 2023 /MS Arcadia
memory care, senior living, dementia care
Memory care

Help Maintain and Enhance Memory and Overall Brain Health

December 20, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our goal is to be the finest senior living in Albuquerque, NM, and we work hard to provide a comfortable home and a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  We offer chef-inspired all-day dining, a range of care services, luxury amenities, and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Our community has 48 stylish assisted living suites and another 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. 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 senior living Albuquerque offers. Please contact us to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home. 


Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

December 20, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, senior living, care services
Senior Living

Considering a Move to Assisted Living?

December 20, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

For anyone considering a move to assisted living, choosing the right community is a big decision as getting it wrong may mean another move within a couple of months. To help, senior living experts say the first thing to do is to think about the level of care you or a loved one needs to improve quality of life. 

After you have a pretty good idea of what your needs are, now factor in things like location and affordability. If mom or dad needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) focus only on senior communities offering assisted living. If you want the home to be a convenient drive for easy visiting, concentrate on those communities. If mom or dad no longer drives, look for a community offering transportation for doctor appointments or errands; or if they plan to bring a car, does it offer parking? Does the home offer 24/7 care, medication management and access to licensed nurses?

Obviously, affordability is an important consideration, but senior living advocates warn don’t be initially shocked at the price. Rather think about all the living costs such as property taxes, maintenance, utility bills and meals included in the home’s monthly fees. For a better understanding of mom or dad’s assets, it may be worth your while to consult an elder law attorney. They can explore various options such as eligibility for Veterans’ benefits, what your parent’s long-term care insurance may cover, and the advantages of leveraging real estate assets and life insurance, tax benefits and more.   

Other things to consider include the physical characteristics of the assisted living community. Does it offer a floor plan that works for you? Do you want amenities such as a fitness center, hair salon, outdoor patio, restaurant-style dining, theater, Wi-Fi, etc.? 

For trusted senior housing, Santa Fe, NM area families are encouraged to learn more MorningStar. MorningStar of Santa Fe’s assisted living lets seniors comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, resort-style amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, we offer specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Visit our website today to inquire about pricing and availability.

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 housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

December 20, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, assisted living community, senior housing
assisted living

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a Welcoming Home for Our Residents

December 18, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

MorningStar of Albuquerque 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 we offer some of the best memory care and assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.  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 welcoming 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 video 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 Albuquerque has 48 private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans to meet our residents’ preferences and needs.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we provide another 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  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 for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

December 18, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, memory care, individualized care
assisted living

5 Ways to Refresh Your Senior Apartment for the New Year

December 18, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior apartments

The new year is almost here, which means it’s time to lean into the atmosphere of new beginnings and make some positive changes to your daily routine and life. If you’re feeling like your assisted living apartment could use an update, now’s as good a time as any, too!

You’ll love how refreshed and rejuvenated you’ll feel in a freshly restyled space, and it’s sure to make it easier to focus on all your goals for the year ahead. With that said, here are five simple ways to make senior apartments in Phoenix feel revitalized and updated come January:

1. Add Some Fresh Flowers

Nothing matches the “new start” energy of a new year quite like some flowers. You can visit a local farmer’s market or even your nearest grocery store to find a vibrant bunch in any color you prefer. Add a bouquet somewhere in your home where you spend a lot of time, such as the living room or kitchen, to help the space feel more energized and welcoming. 

2. Buy LED Candles for Ambiance

Lit candles always make a room feel more inviting and create a pleasant atmosphere, but they can easily become a fire hazard. Electric or LED candles, on the other hand, are a much safer alternative for older adults living in senior apartments in Phoenix. They provide the same type of ambiance to your space, and they’re safe and simple to use. 

3. Replace Your Bedding

Consider the last time you fully replaced your bedspread. It’s easy to get accustomed to the decor elements we see each day, but you may not realize just how much the look and feel of your space can be boosted if your bed dons an updated color or pattern. 

4. Add New Decor in a Theme

Having a theme to your decor makes a space feel cohesive and more inviting to spend time in as a result. If you don’t have any specific themes going on in your apartment decor, or if you just want to try something new, treat yourself to a holiday shopping spree and get some new items in a theme you’ve never tried before. 

5. Do a Deep Clean 

New home decor for senior apartments in Phoenix can help make the space feel refreshing right in time for the new year, but sometimes, all your apartment really needs to feel rejuvenated is a good clean. Take the time to vacuum, wipe down, and disinfect all your surfaces, or ask someone to help you. Now is also the perfect time to gather up some old clothes, shoes, and other outdated items to donate. 

Embrace the New Year With Some Apartment Updates

The new year is a time for rejuvenation and inspiration, and when some of that energy is put into revamping senior apartments in Phoenix, residents just like you are sure to feel the difference!

December 18, 2023 /MS Arcadia
senior apartments, assisted living, senior living
Senior apartments

Daily Stretching Offers Many Benefits

December 15, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

Have you noticed you are no longer as flexible as you used to be and the movements of your limbs and joints feel more restricted? If it is harder to do things like turning your neck to look behind you when driving or getting up from a low chair, you would probably benefit from incorporating stretches into your routine. Experts say daily stretching can make significant improvement in flexibility, the ability of the muscles and tendons to lengthen and stretch in response to movement, and allow a joint to move through its range of motion.         

In addition, being more flexible improves balance and lowers the risk of a fall. Stretching increases the range of movement in the joints, improves posture and eases muscle tension and soreness as well as increases circulation. Along with dedicated stretching exercises, seniors can increase flexibility with yoga, Pilates, swimming, tai chi, dancing and massage. 

A study on a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults reported by the Journal of Gerontology found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.”  

It is easy to do stretching exercises as they do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. However, before beginning any new exercise routine including stretching, consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level. Experts say you should warm up before stretching such as taking a walk around the block, which in itself helps to stretch muscles and tendons. Also, don’t stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension; or bounce when stretching. Typically hold the stretch for no more than 30 seconds.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we offer 48 well-designed assisted living suites in a choice of floor plans for residents who need support with the activities of daily living. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 memory care suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with resort-style amenities, care services and a range of programs including exercise classes tailored to seniors’ needs.  Visit our website for more information about outstanding memory care or assisted 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 memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: healthline.com/health/senior-health/stretching-exercises#Benefits-of-stretching-

morelifehealth.com/articles/regaining-flexibility-guide

December 15, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, memory care, alzheimers care
assisted living

Crafting Connections: The Joy of Art and Craft Activities in Assisted Living Communities

December 15, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

Creativity is one of the best remedies to push back against cognitive decline in seniors. When you fully engage your senses to create projects that are uniquely yours, your brain stays sharp. 

Most communities for assisted living in Phoenix offer group crafting and unique art classes. Below, you can learn why these social and creative endeavors are so important after retirement and how you can enjoy them to the fullest. 

Control and Autonomy Over Solo Projects

Arts and crafts allow you to be the leader of your own project. You can finally bring all those brilliant ideas you have to life. Whether through pottery, painting, or simple cutting and gluing, you’re sure to feel in charge when you have a specific craft to focus and work on. 

Thankfully, in assisted living in Phoenix, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative. You can take classes and learn more about art theory and techniques or simply gather your materials and go to town. Either way, you get to be the boss of your crafting journey, and that’s what makes the endeavor so special!

Social Creativity: Collaboration on Art Projects

Solo arts and crafts can be a fun and relaxing hobby, but group projects can be even more beneficial! Senior social health is extremely important, and research has shown time and again that seniors who have strong social bonds fare better in their physical and mental health. As such, staying connected to others could prolong and improve your life. 

Look for group art classes or holiday crafting events that bring people together to work on new projects. Even if you’re simply sitting side by side working on your own crafts, it still helps to encourage connection and socialization. Your community can even come together to collaborate on beautiful, intricate art projects during group classes and events. 

No matter the effort, when you start flexing your social creativity muscle, it gets stronger, and you feel more connected. 

Engaging Your Brain and Strengthening Neural Pathways

Art of any kind engages the parts of your brain that are responsible for creativity and unique ideas, which is great news for seniors, who may need extra stimulation to prevent cognitive decline. 

In addition, as you retain new fine motor skills and challenge your mindset by employing creativity, you literally strengthen your brain. Whenever you learn something new, the neurons in your brain form new pathways, and scientists believe that forging new neural pathways is the key to avoiding memory and cognition problems as an older adult. 

Enjoying Creative Projects in Assisted Living in Phoenix

As you create a new lifestyle for yourself in your assisted living community, it’s a good idea to keep your mind and heart engaged. Find arts and crafts that you love doing and add them to your weekly roster — you won’t regret it!

December 15, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, assisted living community, assisted living communities
assisted living

Dining at MorningStar of Albuquerque

December 13, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a senior living community ideally located on the northeast side of town and offers scenic mountain views.  We are one of 40+ MorningStar communities either operating or under construction across eleven states.

As a MorningStar of Albuquerque resident, you will be treated to a whole host of resort-style amenities and services including a five-star dining experience.  All residents are treated to meals prepared under the supervision of our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room.  We understand that food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living.  We also know food always tastes better and is enjoyed more when shared in community and breaking bread together helps to bond us as a family and as friends.  

Our meals are prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients from the highest quality local producers.  MorningStar’s Chef looks forward to feedback from residents and is open to suggestions.  At each meal, residents will have choices to self-manage their dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat dishes.  

We also believe in BrainWise foods and use ingredients known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Thus, as the MorningStar’s culinary team strives to create meals that delight the eye and palate, they also leverage the phenomenal benefits of superfoods such as Omega 3 fats, acai berries, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Our community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites for those that need help with the activities of daily living.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  While residents’ apartments are their own private nest, our community also has inviting common areas both inside and out that are designed to encourage residents to sit and relax with friends.  Please contact us for more information about luxury senior 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 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 senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.

December 13, 2023 /MS Arcadia
senior living community, senior living, senior living communities
Senior Living

Explore 3 Assisted Living Creative Programs in Senior Living

December 13, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Creative therapies have been proven beneficial for seniors. Suppose a loved one is struggling with completing everyday tasks or experiencing anxiety due to being overwhelmed and confused with everyday life. In that case, they may benefit from exploring creative programs and therapies designed for seniors needing assisted care.

At MorningStar Assisted Living in Sparks, NV, our creative programs developed by our Life Enrichment Teams are essential to maintaining cognitive health and quality of life for all our senior residents. Keep reading to explore three of the most popular assisted living creative programs offered in assisted living. 

Art Therapy

Art therapy is a very successful form of therapy for seniors as it offers a wide range of possibilities. Generally, seniors can paint, draw, complete crafts, write, and much more during art therapy. Art therapy for seniors in assisted living care enhances social skills and improves cognitive and sensory-motor functions. These abilities usually diminish as we age and our memory declines. Art therapy is a great way to combat these symptoms of memory loss in seniors.

Music Therapy

There is impressive research to back up the effectiveness of music therapy and you don’t need to be a musician to enjoy the benefits! You can find music therapy in assisted living that often looks like drum circles, listening to classical music while relaxing, or practicing an instrument. Music therapy is very relaxing for seniors in assisted care and helps them recall memories and lower anxiety. 

Pet therapy 

It’s hard to be discouraged when interacting with cuddly animals. Pet therapy is a great way for seniors to relax and indulge their inner child. Spending time with an animal or pet you enjoy can greatly reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. MorningStar Assisted Living offers a mix of art therapies like pet therapy and other creative activities that stimulate the mind, body, and spirit through a holistic approach.

Find Award Winning Assisted Living Near You

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. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.

December 13, 2023 /MS Arcadia
senior living, senior living community, senior living communities
Senior Living

How to Support Seniors Dealing With Loss Around the Holidays

December 13, 2023 by MS Arcadia in retirement communities

The holidays are often a festive and joyous time of year, but for seniors who have just suffered a loss, they can be anything but. The season is often full of reminders of the past that bring out nostalgic emotions, which themselves can trigger strong feelings of grief. 

In retirement communities in Phoenix, seniors who are dealing with loss generally need extra support and care around the holidays, so it’s important to understand how grief and the aftermath of a loss work to better support your older loved ones. 

With that said, here are some of the best ways to care for a senior who has recently lost someone they love:

Give Them a Safe Space to Talk About the Person They Lost

Where people prefer not to talk about the loved ones they’ve lost, others do, and if that is the case, it’s crucial that you provide a safe and open space for them to talk about the person they love. Discussing the loss can help ease some of the feelings of depression and help seniors move through the more complex stages of grief. 

Whether you visit them at one of the retirement communities in Phoenix or invite them to your house, make sure you offer a listening ear. Sometimes, just knowing someone else is there to hear what they have to say can be a great remedy for those going through complex grief. 

Encourage a Sense of Community

Seniors who have recently lost someone they loved need to be able to fall back on their friends or others who can lift their spirits, and thankfully, in retirement communities in Phoenix, there are plenty of other residents who can help offer support. A strong sense of community can act as a buffer against some of the negative effects of loss, like depression and hopelessness. Encourage the person suffering to reach out whenever they need support and participate in community activities when they feel ready to do so. 

Support Their Nutrition and Physical Health

Seniors going through grief and depression may need help prioritizing their physical needs, including sleep, regular meals, and hydration. Make these activities as easy and convenient as possible for them so they can protect their physical and mental health during this challenging time. 

While eating a healthy diet won’t cure someone’s grief, it can help with the smaller side effects, such as a loss of appetite and unhealthy weight loss. As their support person, you can encourage them to eat nutritious meals and move their body as they see fit. 

Gift Them Photos and Keepsakes of Their Lost Loved One

Keep the memory of a grieving senior’s lost loved one alive by gifting photographs and other keepsakes. Since the holidays often involve lots of gifts, it’s best to stay sentimental with yours this year. Doing so will help them carry the person they lost in their heart, no matter what time of year it is.

Navigating the Complex Process of Senior Grief 

Grieving isn’t easy at any age, but it can be especially tough for a senior after retirement, so offer your support in ways that are sympathetic and authentic. Remind them that you’re always there to listen and care for them when they need it.

December 13, 2023 /MS Arcadia
retirement communities, retirement community, senior health
retirement communities

Routine Health Screenings Are Important for Seniors

December 11, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

As we age, it is important to stay up-to-date with our health care including routine screenings as many diseases do not show signs of symptoms until the problem is harder to treat. Screenings also allow your physician to compare today’s readings to past tests to look for concerning signs. However, medical experts estimate over half of all adults over 65 are not current with the recommended screenings. 

In many cases our age determines the type of screenings we should get. Some tests are recommended once a year, while others, like a colonoscopy, may be based on past test results and/or on the advice of your doctor. 

Common screenings include annual cholesterol tests to measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Cholesterol tests can help “determine your risk for the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in your arteries that can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries throughout your body (atherosclerosis).” Your blood pressure should be checked each time you visit a healthcare professional, and if readings are high, it should be monitored. 

Mammograms are a valuable tool to help detect breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women 50 to 74 with an average risk of breast cancer get a mammogram every two years. For younger women and those with a higher risk, consult with your doctor. 

Other types of screenings for seniors include annual skin checks to look for signs of skin cancer and bone density tests to check for loss of tissue and bone, which might indicate early signs of osteoporosis. Eye exams are important to screen for cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Hearing tests can help seniors get the help they need if there is a problem. Talk to your doctor about which tests they recommend for you.   

MorningStar of Albuquerque is an assisted living and memory care community with a range of onsite amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other 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 senior living Albuquerque offers.

Source: bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/10/14/senior-health-screenings-promote-a-long-healthy-life/

December 11, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, senior living, memory care
Senior Living

A Comprehensive Guide to Moving to Assisted Living

December 11, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

Moving a senior parent or loved one to assisted living can trigger some intense feelings. While the transition may feel daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Did you know seniors can actually experience more independence and self-fulfillment in senior living communities? This is because seniors have the space and devoted time to find out who they are again. Below is a comprehensive guide to moving your parents into assisted living. You will find that this process can be easy and heartwarming with the right senior living community. 

Understand Your Loved One’s Needs 

A senior in need of assisted living care may not fully understand why they need to relocate from their home or other private residence. This adjustment can be emotional. However, open communication with your parents is necessary. Discuss the challenges your parents are facing in an understanding and respectful way. Have they been having a difficult time paying bills, stocking the fridge, or keeping up with their medications? If so, assisted living may be the best option to keep your loved one safe and healthy. 

Recognizing the Need for Independence

While it is commonly thought that seniors lose their independence in nursing homes, the opposite is actually possible with senior living communities that value seniors and their goals. In active senior living communities that offer assisted living, seniors get to experience life again and explore their passions with supervision and support. While assisted living offers medication management and caretaker help with some daily activities, MorningStar assisted living communities understand the unique needs and preferences of every senior in the community. Reaffirm to your loved one that assisted living can offer them new avenues to independence and self-discovery. 

Find Award Winning Assisted Living Near You

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. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.

December 11, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, memory care, senior living community
assisted living

Memory Care in Phoenix: Strategies for Supporting Seniors With Dementia

December 11, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Memory care

Many residents in memory care in Phoenix often struggle with the usual activities of daily living due to their underlying conditions, like dementia. It might be tough for them to keep their spaces clean, interact with others, and perform personal grooming tasks. 

Dementia is undoubtedly a stressful and serious condition, both for those afflicted with it and the people around them, but luckily, there are several strategies you can use to make seniors with dementia feel safe, secure, and loved. With that said, below are some of the best ways to support seniors with dementia who are in memory care in Phoenix:

Patience Is Key

You’ve been told many times that you must be patient with seniors who are struggling with dementia, but there’s merit to that sentiment: Seniors with memory problems, more often than not, can’t help how they feel or act. 

They tend to feel confused and might take out their frustrations on staff members or loved ones, but that is all normal from a medical perspective. That won’t make their condition any less overwhelming to deal with, unfortunately, but it adds context: Remember, your loved one likely doesn’t understand what’s going on. 

How to Handle Your Frustrations

As the lucid adult in the room, it’s your job to support your loved one or residents as best as you can. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to take some deep breaths and remove yourself from a situation should you feel overwhelmed or angry. 

Once you’ve started shifting your mindset, you may find it easier to remain patient and help seniors with dementia work through their feelings. It’s not an easy job, but it must be done. 

Implement Routine and Structure as Much as Possible

Dementia makes life confusing and difficult to navigate, so seniors in memory care in Phoenix thrive on structure and routine. The more stability they have, the better, so use consistent routines whenever possible to make things more manageable for them and yourself. 

These can include eating schedules, grooming rituals, and sets of rules for certain activities. For example, if a senior with dementia wishes to go on an outing, a common rule is that they must go with a staff member or loved one. That creates enough consistency to show them they are safe and taken care of. 

While seniors with dementia might not always respond very well to strict rules and structure, they ultimately rely on it for their well-being, so don’t skip out on consistency when caring for your loved one. 

Use Signs and Flashcards to Help Them Remember Things

The more visual cues that a senior with dementia is exposed to, the more likely they are to remember important things. You may want to label essential everyday objects like their toothbrush or walking shoes so that they don’t have to rely on their increasingly inconsistent memory. They can just read the label and go about their day. 

A Supportive Environment: Memory Care in Phoenix for Seniors With Dementia

Seniors in memory care face lots of challenges each day, but you can follow the above tips to work toward making their care less stressful for both of you.

December 11, 2023 /MS Arcadia
memory care, dementia care, senior living
Memory care

Designing Dementia-Friendly Spaces: How Memory Care Environments Support Seniors

December 08, 2023 by MS Arcadia in Memory care

Dementia is a common condition that many older adults develop as they age. Though dementia is not rare, its symptoms can manifest differently for different people. This is why assisted living communities specifically for memory care in Phoenix will design their private and communal spaces with all kinds of dementia experiences in mind. 

What does it mean for a space to be dementia-friendly? Here are a few ways a memory care facility can help to make their residents with dementia feel more at ease and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Supporting Independence With Careful Design

Depending on how advanced an individual’s dementia is, their independence and motor skills may be significantly affected or hardly affected at all. Dementia-friendly living spaces will make it easy for residents to remain independent for as long as possible. 

This includes plenty of safety measures and visual reminders to avoid confusion or wandering. Additionally, outside spaces are secure yet inviting, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors independently. 

Keeping Familiarity at the Forefront

Individuals with dementia can become confused easily, especially in situations that are new or different from what they’re used to. Curating a sense of familiarity for residents is important in memory care in Phoenix. Helping residents to feel comfortable in their surroundings can significantly reduce unpleasant dementia symptoms.Since people with dementia tend to feel more comfortable in settings that remind them of their home, many memory care facilities design their spaces to feel home-like rather than having a medical or institutional feel. 

When individuals feel like they are surrounded by the comforts of home and familiar sights that they can recognize, they’re much less likely to become confused or upset. 

Preventing Overstimulation With Simplicity

A simple design is key for dementia-friendly spaces. Though they should feel like home, they shouldn’t be too visually busy or crowded with decor. Too many colors and patterns or a feeling of messiness or disorder can make older adults with dementia feel overstimulated. 

This can cause them to become upset and irritated or to wander away in search of a more comfortable place, which could be dangerous. 

Creating Areas for Quiet Relaxation

Though you can take steps to make a space as safe, familiar, and soothing as possible, overstimulation and confusion are bound to happen with residents of memory care in Phoenix. When it does, having designated places where residents can go to relax, regain their composure, and feel safe again is crucial.  

Supporting Older Adults With Carefully Curated Memory Care in Phoenix

Dementia can be a difficult reality to face, but there are so many steps memory care facilities can take to make their spaces inviting and safe. This way, symptoms can be kept to a minimum, and quality of life can greatly increase.

December 08, 2023 /MS Arcadia
memory care, memory care facility, memory care facilities
Memory care

How to Host a Successful Holiday Gathering at an Assisted Living Community

December 06, 2023 by MS Arcadia in assisted living

Hosting the holidays can be tricky no matter where you are, but it can be especially challenging if you’re hosting at an assisted living community. 

So if you plan to enjoy the holidays with your family at assisted living in Phoenix, there are a few simple ways to make the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tips to ensure your holiday celebration goes smoothly. 

Plan Your Menu Early

Planning the food is arguably one of the most challenging parts of any holiday celebration. After all, there’s a lot to keep track of, including family favorites, dietary restrictions, and meal preparation. So whether you’re cooking, arranging who will bring what food, or getting it all catered, make sure you put together the menu well in advance.

This way, you’ll dramatically cut back on last-minute food emergencies, and you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday more fully without worrying so much about its most stressful element.

Start Setting Up Days Before

Similarly, you should consider setting up the event area in the days leading up to the event. This may not be possible if you’re hosting the party in a communal area, but if you can, it’s one of the best ways to remove significant stress from the gathering.  

If nothing else, you can start planning how you will arrange your space. This way, if you need more tables or chairs, you’ll be able to get them early instead of figuring out another solution when there’s not enough seating on the day of the party. Plus, if you need help moving tables or chairs into their ideal configuration, you’ll have plenty of time to ask someone for help.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help

Don’t forget that help is just a phone call away from your community for assisted living in Phoenix. The highly qualified staff members at your facility are there to assist you, so reach out to them early on to find out what kind of help you might expect.

This could include moving heavy furniture to prepare for guests, planning and organizing the event, or even assisting on the day to help your guests find parking and get settled.

Create New Holiday Traditions

Holiday get-togethers at assisted living in Phoenix may have already become part of your family’s yearly tradition. However, if this is a new experience for all of you, try not to focus on any old traditions that you won’t be able to carry out this year. Instead, think of some new fun and exciting holiday traditions that make sense in your situation and that your family can experience together.

Enjoy the Holidays in Your Assisted Living Facility 

The holiday season should be fun, easy, and enjoyable. So reduce the stress of holiday hosting by planning ahead and asking for the help you need at assisted living in Phoenix.

December 06, 2023 /MS Arcadia
assisted living, assisted living community, senior living
assisted living

4 Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors Living in Retirement Communities

December 04, 2023 by MS Arcadia in retirement communities

Everyone knows how important it is to follow a healthy diet. But what many people forget is that it’s even more important for seniors to eat healthily, especially in retirement communities. So where do you start? How do you make the most of what your program has to offer? 

Thankfully, many retirement communities in Phoenix have premium nutrition services and healthy dining options. Use this as a guide to learn the best tips for healthy eating after retirement.

1. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables contain anti-inflammatory antioxidants that help combat tissue damage. This is key when it comes to aging gracefully and maintaining good brain health. 

So load your plate with colorful fruits and veggies every time you eat to make the most of your meals. While indulging in treats is okay occasionally, you should strongly focus on getting your fruits and vegetables each day. 

2. Make Healthy Eating Fun and Enjoyable

While they may have a reputation for being particularly healthy choices, you don’t have to force down Brussels sprouts or spinach if you don’t like them. Healthy eating can still be enjoyable and tasty. For example, if you find out which whole grains, vegetables, and fruits you like the best, you can add them to your meals each day. 

Learn which ingredients make you feel the most satisfied while still delighting your taste buds. Opt for dishes with flavors and textures that bring you happiness instead of making you feel restricted. This way, you’re more likely to stick to a healthy diet.

3. Watch Out for Hidden Sugar 

Some foods and drinks contain a surprising amount of hidden sugars that are damaging to your mental and physical health. So always ask for a menu that includes ingredients if you have diabetes or are sensitive to blood sugar spikes. 

Some foods and drinks that contain more sugar than you’d think include:

  • Juice

  • Coffee creamer

  • Granola bars

  • Breakfast cereals

  • Packaged fruits

  • Salad dressings

  • Sweet and savory sauces

If you know what to look out for, you can avoid consuming too much sugar and protect your long-term health. 

4. Research the Community’s Dining Options

Retirement communities in Phoenix offer a wide range of dining options, from cafeteria-style meals to independent restaurants onsite. You may already have settled into a routine in your community, but you may not be aware of all the available options that can help you maintain good health. 

You might even have access to extra services like nutrition counseling. If so, find out how to sign up and get expert meal guidance.

Eating Healthy for Seniors Made Easy

Keep these tips in mind, and you can do a better job of eating right and aging gracefully while living in one of the retirement communities in Phoenix. Finally, as you navigate your new post-retirement eating habits, remember that most things can be enjoyed in moderation.

December 04, 2023 /MS Arcadia
retirement community, retirement communities, senior living
retirement communities
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