How to Stay Social Without Leaving Home

There are seasons of life when getting out is not as easy as it used to be. Weather, mobility changes, or health concerns can all limit how often you see people in person. Even so, staying connected is deeply important. Conversation, shared laughter, and feeling remembered all support emotional and cognitive health. With a few modern tools and some traditional touches, you can keep a rich social life without going far from your favorite chair in senior living Lakewood.

Make the most of phone calls

The simplest technology is often the most powerful. In assisted living facilities regular phone calls with family and friends can be a lifeline. You might:

• Schedule a weekly call with a friend at the same time each week

• Keep a short list of people you can reach out to when you have a good story or need to hear a familiar voice

• Use speakerphone or a headset if holding the phone is tiring

Short, frequent conversations often feel more manageable than long, rare ones.

Use video chats for “face to face” time

Seeing someone’s smile adds warmth that a voice alone may not provide. Video calls through services like Zoom, FaceTime, or similar apps allow you to:

• Watch grandchildren show school projects

• Share a cup of tea with a friend who lives far away

• Join family celebrations from home

If setting up a call feels confusing, ask a relative, staff member, or neighbor to walk you through the steps and write them down in simple language.

Join virtual groups and activities

Many organizations now host online gatherings. Options include:

• Book clubs that meet by video

• Faith services streamed online

• Exercise or stretching classes you can follow from your living room

• Hobby groups for knitting, painting, or card games

Participating regularly helps you feel part of something larger. In places like assisted living Lakewood, staff sometimes organize group video sessions so residents can attend together from a common room.

Keep using letters and small surprises

Not all connection need a screen. Handwritten notes, postcards, or printed photos slipped into the mail can mean a lot. You might create a habit of sending one letter a week to someone who has been on your mind. Receiving mail in return brings a sense of anticipation and care.

Create your own social rhythm

Think about what kind of contact feels best – a daily check in, a few calls a week, or one group activity you attend regularly. Building a simple plan around that helps the days feel less isolated. With a mix of calls, virtual visits, written notes, and shared activities, you can keep friendships alive and even make new ones without needing to leave home very often.

Indoor Activities for Seniors That Keep Body and Mind Active All Winter

Cold weather and shorter days can make it tempting to stay still, but long stretches of inactivity can leave you stiff, low on energy, and less engaged. Winter is actually a good time to explore indoor activities that keep both body and mind moving. With a bit of creativity, it is possible to build a cozy routine in assisted living Lakewood that strengthens muscles, sharpens thinking, and brightens mood.

Gentle movement you can do inside

You do not need a gym to stay active. Simple indoor exercises can be done in regular clothes with a sturdy chair nearby. Ideas include:

• Seated leg lifts and ankle circles

• Standing heel raises while holding a counter

• Light stretching for the neck, shoulders, and hips

Putting on music and moving for ten to fifteen minutes at a time can help circulation and ease stiffness. If you prefer guidance, many television channels and online videos offer gentle exercise sessions tailored to seniors.

Puzzles and games for mental fitness

Keeping the brain active is just as important as moving the body. Activities that challenge attention, memory, and problem solving do not have to feel like work. You might:

• Do a crossword or word search with your morning coffee

• Work on jigsaw puzzles that appeal to your interests

• Try matching or card games with a neighbor or family member

Regular mental challenges can encourage the brain to form new connections, which supports cognitive health over time.

Creative projects that feed the spirit

Winter lends itself to crafts and hobbies in assisted living facilities that can be picked up and put down easily. Consider knitting, drawing, painting, or simple paper crafts. Even organizing photos into albums or creating a small scrapbook can become a satisfying indoor project. These activities not only keep hands busy, they also create chances to reminisce and share stories with visitors.

Learning something new from home

Libraries, community centers, and online platforms often offer free or low cost classes. Topics range from history and language to cooking demonstrations and music appreciation. Choosing one course for the season can give structure to the week and something to look forward to. In places like senior living Lakewood, group viewings of lectures or documentaries often spark lively discussions afterward.

Building a winter routine that feels good

The key is to mix different types of activities across the week so no day feels too empty. A balance of movement, mental stimulation, creativity, and social contact, even if it is just a phone call, helps winter feel less heavy. Small efforts add up, and a thoughtful indoor routine can leave you stepping into spring feeling stronger, clearer, and more connected.

Senior-Friendly Interior Design Tips for Function and Style

A home feels best when it is both comfortable and easy to move around in. For older adults in assisted living Lakewood, good design is not only about looks. It also supports safety, independence, and everyday routines. A few thoughtful choices can turn even a small apartment into a space that is calm, practical, and full of personality.

Start with clear pathways

One of the most important design decisions is not about what you add, but what you remove. Cluttered floors and crowded furniture make it harder to move safely. Aim for:

• Wide, open walkways between rooms

• Furniture with legs that are easy to see

• Fewer small rugs or, if needed, rugs with non slip backing

Keeping paths clear lowers the risk of trips and makes it simpler to use walkers or canes if those are part of daily life.

Choose furniture that supports the body

Chairs and sofas should feel welcoming, not like you are sinking into a hole. Look for firm cushions, arms you can push against when standing, and seats that are not too low. A sturdy chair with a straight back near a window can become a favorite reading spot. Side tables should be at a comfortable height so you are not reaching or twisting to set down a drink, book, or glasses.

Use light to create warmth and safety

Good lighting does more than brighten a room. It helps you see edges, read labels, and recognize faces. Mix overhead lighting with lamps at different heights. Soft, warm bulbs can make the space feel cozy while still providing enough light. Night lights in hallways and bathrooms are especially helpful if you get up during the night. Opening curtains during the day, even in winter, can make small spaces feel larger and more cheerful.

Add storage that keeps essentials close

Storage does not have to mean bulky cabinets. Consider small bookcases, baskets on shelves, and ottomans that open for extra space. Place everyday items at waist to shoulder height to avoid bending and reaching overhead. Hooks by the door for keys, bags, or jackets keep exits and entrances smoother. In places like senior living Lakewood, small storage solutions often make the difference between a room that feels cramped and one that feels organized and calm.

Bring in personal touches

In assisted living, a  few well chosen pieces can make a space feel like home. Family photos, a favorite quilt, framed artwork, or a shelf with beloved books all add warmth. The key is to select items that make you smile without overcrowding surfaces. Plants, even small ones, can add life and color. When function and style work together, your home becomes a place that supports who you are now and how you want to live each day.

Mistakes Are Often Made in Medical Care Settings

The US News & World Report writes that medical errors are more common than we think; and some of them are life-alternating or deadly. Facts show medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States. These include mistakes made in health care settings such as incorrect diagnoses, problems in surgery, operating on the wrong part of the body and incorrectly dispensing medications. Another devastating mistake can result in patients acquiring infections during their hospital stay from things like inadequate hand hygiene and improper wound care. 

Dr. Kanwar Kelley, a board-certified otolaryngologist and cofounder and CEO of Side Health, explains, “Most medical errors – regardless if they are diagnostic errors, medication errors or surgical errors – can be linked to issues in medical processes or workflows.”

While most mistakes happen within the healthcare system and it is neither our responsibility or within our reach to prevent many of these errors, there are things we can do to try and protect ourselves. The first thing experts say is to get as informed as possible about your medical problem. This includes asking questions about treatment options, and how long you will be on any new medication you are prescribed. Ask about potential side effects and make sure you know exactly how to take the medication. If you are not happy with what you hear or with the doctor, you are entitled to seek a second opinion. 

Your responsibility includes communicating with your healthcare team about all medications you are taking including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. In addition, provide a comprehensive medical history of diseases, cancers, surgeries and other problems you have had over the years.   

If you are looking for assisted living facilities in Albuquerque, NM, MorningStar may be your answer. Our beautiful home has well-designed suites in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Contact us or visit our website to learn more about senior apartments MorningStar of Albuquerque.

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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/how-to-prevent-medical-errors? 

Accurate Medical Information is Key to Good Health

The Medical News Today cites recent surveys showing Americans are vulnerable to misinformation via social and mass market media as well as from friends and family. As this can include critical medical information, they warn while there is a fount of easily accessible content, there are things we can do to protect ourselves from inaccurate advice. 

According to a 2024 survey from Healthline, more than half of American respondents said they got health information via social media, while another 32% said they turned to family, friends, and colleagues for health advice. To help empower us to make good medical decisions, Medical News Today spoke with Dawn Holford, PhD from the School of Psychological Science at the University of Bristol, U.K. who specializes in the psychology of communication and decision-making. 

Holford suggests people double check information with more than one reliable source to look for consensus across the board. She also adamantly says it is up to medical news websites like Medical News Today to be extra diligent to ensure their information is correct. In terms of the consumer, she recommends using trusted governmental public health organizations as well as global ones like the World Health Organization. In addition, look for well-vetted independent sites and reach out to trusted healthcare providers. 

Following her rule of thumb, Holford cautions to be on your guard. She explains, “If something seems to align to what you already believe — it may well be correct, but follow the same steps to verify it.” 

If you are looking for a senior assisted living in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. Assisted living residents enjoy well-designed suites in a choice of floor plans, resort-style amenities, senior care services, wellness programs and activities. Within our dedicated Reflections Neighborhood, we provide trusted assisted living facilities in an intimate surrounding that enhances quality of life for our most tender residents. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

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 apartments Albuquerque offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-do-you-know-if-a-health-information-source-is-reliable?

MorningStar of Albuquerque Offers Holistic Memory Care

MorningStar of Albuquerque offers unsurpassed assisted living facilities in Albuquerque, NM.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.   MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar’s resident-directed approach to memory care respects the dignity and value of each person and supports choice and independence as much as possible.  Independence is encouraged by warm, welcoming common areas and clear wayfinding.  We also provide three daily meals served in our comfortable dining room where residents and staff eat together.  In addition, residents are provided 24-hour care with daily health monitoring, and the expertise of a full-time licensed nurse. 

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.  We are staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease.  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.  

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 to learn more about MorningStar Senior assisted Living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

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 senior apartments Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Protect Your Medicare Number to Help Prevent Fraud

The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association estimates last year’s annual Medicare insurance fraud was around $100 billion, and most likely much higher. While one in five beneficiaries say they have encountered potential Medicare fraud, there are precautions you can take to reduce or eliminate fraudulent claims starting with protecting your Medicare and Social Security cards and numbers like you do your credit cards. 

Experts say don’t respond to a call, text or email asking you to provide your Medicare Number. They caution you to only show your Medicare card or give out your number to your doctor or people you know who should have it. To determine if you are a victim of fraud, examine your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or claims statements carefully for any discrepancies or additions of services or charges you did not receive. Another common scam is to try to get Medicare beneficiaries to sign up for drug plans that are not approved by Medicare. 

If your Medicare card is stolen or you suspect fraud, report it as soon as possible to 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). It is important to know Medicare will never call to sell you anything or visit you at home. They will only call or contact you in limited situations to ask for personal information. One such person may be the agent who helped you sign up for a particular Medicare program or drug plan. You also may be contacted by Medicare if you left your number to report fraud or inconsistencies with your MSNs.  

If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living in Albuquerque, NM, MorningStar may be your answer.  We offer a true home where seniors can live their best life and feel respected, engaged and secure. This is made possible through a dedicated team who are committed to providing residents with the highest quality of life possible. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque.

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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living facilities Albuquerque, NM offers.

Recommended Activities for Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease

An article in the online publication, Medical News Today, suggests activities that can provide a person with Alzheimer’s disease a sense of normality and help enrich their life. A study reported meaningful activities are important for those with dementia as they can improve both psychological and physical health.

One suggestion of an indoor activity is to sit with the person and look through photo albums of family together. This is an effective way to engage the person and is typically enjoyable. Another relaxing activity can be listening to the person’s favorite music; or if they are more hands-on, do an arts and crafts project. Playing an instrument has much the same calming effect. 

Researchers say studies show knitting and crocheting to be calming activities for those with Alzheimer’s. Not only does it help reduce anxiety and depression, but the person gets a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, done within a group setting, it can lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation. Routine things like daily chores can also be comforting and help the person feel like they are a contributing member of the family/group.     

Experts say outdoor activities are important to the person’s overall health and well-being. One area of research for those having dementia includes therapeutic gardening. Data shows gardening can improve a person’s emotional and cognitive state, increase engagement and reduce anxiety. 

Other healthy outdoor activities include walking in the park (getting back to nature is good for all of us) and feeding the birds. If the person uses a mobility aid such as a walker or cane, be sure to have them use it. The same goes for wearing good-fitting walking shoes. 

The Alzheimer’s Association suggests keeping to a routine each day is helpful; as well as offering other promising ideas worth considering. In addition, they say to remember everyone is different, and if an activity does not seem to be to their liking, try something else. Most importantly activities should be those the person enjoys. 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, senior living our Reflections Neighborhood offers compassionate, experienced memory care to those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Our home is a safe, peaceful place where residents’ independence is encouraged with inviting common areas and clear wayfinding.  In addition, purposeful activities keep residents engaged including physical exercise, music, dance and art designed to stimulate or calm as the situation requires.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care or 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 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 facilities Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

A Good Night’s Sleep is Important for Older Adults

Experts say it is a myth that older adults do not need as much sleep as they did when they were younger. Studies show at least seven hours a night of sleep is critical to brain health and cognitive health. If you consistently wake up several times during the night and still wake up early every day, it may be time to make changes to your nightly routine. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports due to sleep disturbances that frequently come with age, many seniors get less REM sleep. REM is an important cycle in our sleep and includes the period in which we dream. It is also believed to help consolidate memory. In addition, during our deep sleep cycle, the brain purges toxins and waste products including amyloid beta, which can gradually clump together to form amyloid plaques, found in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. 

A chronic lack of sleep can affect a person’s mood. The magazine, Frontiers in Physiology, published a report citing 6 studies showing less than 7 hours of sleep a night in older adults was linked to a higher risk for depression. Psychological Medicine reports on another study of adults who were on average age 72 who frequently said they woke during the night. It found participants were more likely to report a depressed mood. 

The Mayo Clinic has a few tips to help you sleep through the night such as going to bed and getting up around the same time each day. They caution about going to sleep hungry or very full and to eat at least a few hours before bedtime. Also, watch your consummation of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine products a couple of hours before bedtime. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet, and refrain from viewing light-emitting screens right before sleep. They say it is important to manage your stress levels and to try and get some exercise each day.  

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 assisted living facilities 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: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379

Traditional Medicare Does Not Cover Some Services and Medical Devices

Many seniors new to Medicare have questions about the scope of coverage under the program. Experts explain traditional Medicare covers most health care needs including hospital care, doctor visits and lab tests. However, some services and medical devices are not covered.

While Medicare covers treatment and doctor visits regarding medical problems in the ears; many seniors are surprised to learn it does not cover hearing aids. In 2017 a bill was passed that allows hearing aids to be sold over-the-counter without a prescription for people with mild to moderate hearing loss; greatly reducing the cost.

Eye exams, glasses and contact lenses are also not covered under traditional Medicare. Medicare does cover things like cataract surgery and other medical conditions of the eye. If you are concerned about the cost of glasses and exams, vision insurance is available. The same goes for most dental care, and there are additional plans out there to help cover the cost of dental work. 

If you travel out of the country, you need to know Medicare will not cover any of your medical care. Travelers may purchase a Medigap policy that covers certain overseas medical costs; or check into travel insurance policies offering basic health care. Some seniors opt to pay upfront for emergency medical evacuation insurance. 

Other types of services not covered by Medicare are podiatry, massage therapy and chiropractic care. While short-term rehabilitation services are covered, Medicare does not cover long-term care in a nursing home. 

MorningStar offers assisted living in Albuquerque, NM on the popular northeast side of town close to medical facilities, shopping and other services. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years in beautiful surroundings with amenities including chef-inspired meals, fitness center, theater/chapel, life enrichment area, wellness programs and activities.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides all the services required to meet the diverse needs of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing and to set up a tour.

MorningStar of Albuquerque’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 assisted living facilities Albuquerque, NM offers.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

Preparing for a Parent’s Unplanned Hospital Visit

While many hospital stays are planned, older adults are more likely to require an unexpected trip to the hospital. When you have the luxury of time, it is easy to get prepared with the necessary information a parent needs when admitted to the hospital. It can be a different story if the trip is sudden. 

Medical experts say to ensure a loved one gets the proper care; it is important to see to it that the hospital has a complete medical history.  Notes and documents can be completed and gathered now then updated as health changes occur. For starters, the hospital will want a “next of kin” contact for the patient so decide beforehand who that will be.  

Now go through the list of medications your parents take and make sure they are all together in one location. In the event of a medical emergency, you will be able to bring all their medications with you to ensure the hospital knows the most up-to-date medications and dosages. 

Another thing to gather information on regards your parents’ pre-existing conditions and any recent surgeries or procedures they may have had. Provide the name of their primary care provider; and be sure to let the hospital personnel know if your parent has dementia or any physical limitations. 

If the hospital doesn’t already have a copy of your loved one’s advanced directive, also known as a living will, bring one with you. An advanced directive is a legal document in which a person specifies what actions should be taken in end-of-life situations when they cannot speak for themselves. Mom or dad may also have a Do-Not-Resuscitate Order, which is another kind of advance directive. It covers not receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the person’s heart stops or if they stop breathing. 

Other information to give to the hospital regards allergies and dietary restrictions. Additionally, make sure your loved one has their cellphone with them as many hospital rooms do not have phones. 

If you are considering assisted living facilities in Albuquerque, NM, MorningStar may be your answer.  We are on the northeast side of town with wonderful views and convenient medical facilities, shopping and other services.  Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors.  Please visit our website for more information on senior apartments and 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 to learn more about the finest senior assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Extreme Summer Heat Increases Health Risks

While anyone can become ill from overheating, some people are more at-risk including children, older adults, outdoor workers and people with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Moreover, as temperatures continue to rise during the summer months (even in the spring and fall in some places), medical professionals warn about the increasing threat of heat-related illnesses. The Harvard Medical School says every year thousands die from the effects of soaring temperatures. 

Temperatures vary around the country but the most severe combination is when both heat and high humidity are present. Even if you are used to dealing with high temperatures, experts say it is important to still be aware and have a plan to deal with extreme weather. They additionally warn that problems increase the longer the hot weather lasts as people’s resilience starts to falter after several days in a row of extremely hot temperatures.  

Recommendations include keeping up with weather alerts regarding dangerously high temperatures. If you live in a home without air conditioning, think about where you can go to cool off. Your plan could be to stay with a family member or friend or spend time at a public cooling center.  Other options include public places such as libraries, malls or community centers.

Doctors advise to drink plenty of fluids and say water is your best option. Also, avoid caffeine and alcohol. Another important step is to know your own personal risk for heat-related illness. If you have heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes or take certain medications including diuretics, you may be at higher risk. It is important to talk to your doctor about your risk and how to best keep yourself safe this summer. 

For trusted assisted living facilities in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place.  Our beautiful home has 48 assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 21 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar of Albuquerque’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Couples are Welcome at MorningStar of Albuquerque

When a couple’s health experiences are different, and one is healthier than the other, that person may assume the role of caregiver. As time evolves, the needs of the chronically ill spouse may become more complex and require daily care. This can be difficult for the healthier spouse, and even impact his/her own health and well-being. 

To ensure both parties have an opportunity for the best quality of life; an assisted living community may be the answer. While leaving a family home and transitioning to community life is a big change, the transition is easier for the person with a spouse or partner by their side. Marissa Kirby, NHA, CHC, CHPC, and vice president of compliance at NEWGEN HEALTH, LLC, explains, “In many cases, particularly when a couple has been married for many years, the ability to live together can make or break their decision on whether or not to move to an assisted living facilities.”

Many assisted living communities like MorningStar of Albuquerque welcome couples; where we not only expertly and compassionately address the needs of a person living with a chronic illness or disability but also the needs of the healthier spouse. MorningStar’s senior assisted living provides the maintenance-free environment of independent living with the addition of care services for the ADLs (activities of daily living) tailored to the resident. We offer an array of contemporary floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom options. Suites feature high ceilings, large windows, handicapped-accessible bathroom, emergency call system and private climate control.  Moreover, MorningStar welcomes your pet.  

Senior-friendly activities, resort-style amenities and built-in companionship can be a winning combination for many couples. In addition to assisted living, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted senior apartments Albuquerque seniors can count on, please contact us or visit our website 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 senior living Albuquerque offers.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/couples-living-together-assisted-living-144938.htm

Like Other Parts of Our Bodies, the Digestive System Changes With Age

An article from Scientific American cites findings from several studies showing how palliative services started earlier in patient care, rather than the current practice of late in the course of the disease, may offer important benefits. However, before this care option can be more widely implemented, there needs to be an increase in patients’ access to outpatient palliative services. Experts also say work needs to be done with correcting the misconception that palliative care is only for end-of-life situations.  

Palliative care focuses on maintaining the highest quality of life while managing treatment and other needs. It has expanded to include multidisciplinary services such as the physical, psychological and spiritual needs of patients and their families. This differs from hospice care which specifically focuses on the period closest to death. Hospice care is limited to comfort care without curative intent as the patient no longer has curative options or has chosen not to pursue treatment because the side effects outweigh the benefits. 

The National Institute of Health explains palliative care is currently most often started late in patients with life-threatening conditions, particularly in patients with advanced cancer. However, they too cite real life studies indicating an early palliative care (EPC) paradigm can give patients a better quality of life. 

The benefits of the supportive services provided with earlier palliative care have been shown to not only help control patients’ symptoms and provide pain care but address other problems. These include depression and anxiety as well as a reduction in the number of trips to the hospital. One study found patients suffering from COPD, heart failure or lung disease that received telehealth visits showed an improved quality of life that continued for months after the calls concluded. Medical professionals say since there is a limited amount of outpatient palliative services currently available; they recommend patients with the most severe symptoms should receive the care. 

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

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

4 Practical Steps to Help Aging Parents Overcome Their Fear of Change

It is not uncommon for older adults to experience fear of change surrounding assisted living, aging, and other uncharted territories. This fear can cause excessive tension and distress that impacts their physical and emotional well-being. Read on to learn four practical tips to help your parents get past these fears.

1. Take the Time to Listen to Their Worries

When a person is struggling with dread, anxiety, or stress, they want someone to empathize with them. While you may not understand or agree with how they feel, it will mean the world to them if you accept and recognize the emotions they are going through.

2. Provide All of the Information You Can

When making a major life change, people are afraid because they do not know what to expect. If your parents are grappling with anxiety and panic over a life transition, one of the best steps you can take is to equip them with plenty of information. 

Give them as many details as possible so that they have an idea of what to expect. 

3. Communicate With Them Openly

To help your loved ones conquer fears, you must establish a safe space for open communication and unrestricted dialogue. 

Your parents should be able to come to you with their worries without fear of judgment or ridicule, regardless of what those concerns might be. But you don’t have to have these conversations alone. You can also create a support network of additional family members or friends that your parents can turn to as they process the idea of moving to assisted living in Phoenix. Having the right people involved in the conversation can make all the difference and help put your parents at ease.

4. Set Up Visits at Assisted Living Facilities

Often, the best way to overcome a fear is by facing it. This does not mean you should put your parents into a situation that frightens them or causes grief. Instead, you can ease them into confronting their fears in small ways. 

For example, some seniors avoid senior living because they worry they will lose their independence. 

You can even bring your parents to an in-person tour of assisted living to put their mind at ease.

Transitioning Into Assisted Living

It’s common for people to experience some apprehension when it comes to a major life change. Differences in routine, living situation, or location can all be intimidating for aging adults. Provide plenty of information, address their concerns, and set up tours of any potential assisted living facilities. Taking these steps can help reduce the fear of change for your aging parents.

How to Emotionally Support Your Senior When He’s Feeling Down

If you care for a senior loved one, you spend a considerable amount of time trying to meet the physical issues that often arise as we grow older. You implement steps to mitigate pain, ensure consuming food and beverages that deliver sufficient vitamins and minerals, and drive to different healthcare providers to address a wide variety of physical ailments. Although taking care of your senior loved one’s physical health is important, you should devote as much time and money to considering the emotional toll aging takes.

We fulfill emotional needs at every stage of our lives. As we grow older, our emotional needs change and the strategies used to meet those needs change as well. The key is to know how to support your senior loved one emotionally. You also should be able to identify the emotional needs of your senior loved one. A few of the most common emotional needs that senior loved ones need to meet include social interactions, developing meaningful relationships, and understanding what it takes to find a sense of belonging.

At our senior living facility in Phoenix, Arizona, our caregivers recommend four ways to support your senior when he’s feeling down.

Listen

When your senior loved one discusses feeling down, your role is to listen and understand what is said. You should not follow up with an immediate response, but instead, you listen to let your senior loved one know that what she said carries enough significance to warrant a little time of contemplation. When your senior loved one knows you have listened, you should be able to develop a stronger connection that provides emotional support.

Respect

Unless your senior loved one needs memory care in Phoenix, he is capable of expressing ideas that advocate a point of view. The last thing your senior loved one wants is to be treated like a child, which unfortunately, far too many family members do when they interact with an older adult. Your senior loved one wants to be in control of her life, which means you need to respect what he wants to do in terms of choosing an assisted living lifestyle.

Make Safety and Security a Priority

Safety and security represent two of the most important emotional needs for a senior. If your loved one does not feel safe and secure, she might not be able to generate the energy to have other emotional needs met. One of the most common reasons why seniors want to live in a facility with other seniors concerns the issues of safety and security. MorningStar at Arcadia installs safety and security measures such as advanced security systems and emergency call buttons to give residents peace of mind.

Participate in Activities

Assisted living facilities offer a wide variety of activities to keep residents engaged, as well as foster social interactions. The activities planned at our memory care community in Phoenix are not just for residents. To support your senior loved one emotionally, stop by our facility to join your senior loved one in an activity or two. We offer regularly scheduled activities such as yoga and tai chi, as well as special events like bus tours that take residents to area cultural and historical landmarks.

Professional caregivers represent the front line of defense to prevent the development of emotional issues such as fear and anxiety. Loved ones are the second line of defense, which means you should focus on ways to help your senior loved one feel valued, understood, and appreciated. At our assisted living community in Phoenix, AZ, we follow the mission of “to honor, to value, to invest” in our seniors. Learn more by contacting a resident care representative at MorningStar at Arcadia.