Learn More About Dementia

Many of us, especially seniors, have heard or known someone with Alzheimer’s disease and have an idea of the devastation it causes. While there are other types of diseases categorized as dementia, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. You should know dementia is not actually a specific disease but refers to a decline in a person’s mental ability to such a degree it interferes with their daily life.    

It is also important to understand dementia is not a normal condition of aging but rather caused by damage to brain cells that affect a person’s memory, reasoning and other cognitive skills including an ability to communicate. There are several types of clinical dementia including: Alzheimer’s disease; vascular dementia; dementia with Lewy Body; and frontotemporal dementia. Mixed dementia is the term used when a person has both Alzheimer’s and another form of dementia, which is causing their mental decline. 

The Alzheimer’s Association says the “most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.” As the disease progresses, the person is robbed of many other abilities such as speaking, swallowing and walking. 

To help get the proper diagnosis and rule out other causes that may be treatable such as side effects from a medication, it is important to see your doctor. If warranted, they may have you see a specialist that can do further testing.      

At MorningStar, our goal is to provide exceptional assisted living in Albuquerque, which includes care in our Reflections Neighborhood for residents with memory loss diseases.  Our holistic approach is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love and compassion. Contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque, retirement homes.  

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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior apartments Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s

Foods That Are Best Avoided if You Have Arthritis

Studies show there are steps people can take to help control the inflammation associated with the pain, stiffness and other health complications of arthritis. Along with medications, experts say modifying our diet and avoiding certain foods known to increase inflammation can help. 

Red meat is high on the list to avoid if you have arthritis. As it is higher in saturated fat than white meat or plant-based proteins, studies find red meat increases a person’s levels of inflammation and worsens joint swelling and arthritis symptoms. To get enough protein in your diet, substitute red meat with chicken, fish, legumes and things like nuts and seeds.

Full-fat dairy products may also increase inflammation and lead to worsening of arthritis symptoms. Experts say opt for skim milk or plant-based milk, and substitute full-fat yogurt with low, or no-fat yogurt or kefir. The probiotics in foods such as yogurt and kefir may help reduce inflammation according to some studies. 

Processed foods are associated with obesity and insulin resistance, and may also increase arthritis symptoms. These include frozen meals, lunchmeat, baked goods, fast food, and packaged snacks, which typically contain refined grains, added sugar, high salt content, and fats to help them last on store shelves and maintain flavor. Keep in mind sugar is not only in candy, soda and desserts but can be added to many foods such as cereals, barbeque sauce, coffee drinks, sweet teas and fruit juices. In terms of sugar, the recommended daily amount is 9 teaspoons. Moreover, be aware of hidden sugars with words like sucrose and fructose. 

Experts say if you drink alcohol to moderate your intake. Other foods to avoid or eat in moderation include refined carbohydrates found in white bread, white rice, pasta and cereals made with white flour. Rather eat food made from corn, whole wheat or brown rice flour. The Arthritis Foundation says, “While there’s no miracle diet for arthritis, many foods can help fight inflammation and improve joint pain and other symptoms. For starters, a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans, but low processed foods and saturated fat, is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity.”

MorningStar of Albuquerque provides seniors with a vibrant and carefree lifestyle to help live life to the fullest. Our community offers assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans equipped with kitchenettes, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, and emergency call systems.  Residents enjoy gourmet dining, fitness center, theater, salon and fireside patio along with wellness programs and activities. For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood offers memory care designed to enhance quality of life for our most tender residents. Please contact us for more information about luxury retirement homes in Albuquerque, NM.

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

Helping a Loved One Who is Grieving

Death is part of life and if we are fortunate to live a long one, most likely we will have to deal with the loss of a beloved spouse, life partner, child, sibling or friend. As loved ones give our lives purpose, coping with their loss and finding new purpose is difficult as many seniors do not have the opportunities to socialize or get out as they once did. 

Grief counselors suggest some things a person’s family and friends can do to help them get through the worst of the grief. If it was your parents who died, be sure to let your surviving parents know how much you miss dad or mom, and share memories you have of the good times. Ask your parents if they have more difficult times during the day dealing with the loss as you could come over or give them a call. Also, be sure not to shy away from saying the deceased person’s name.   

Offer to do things with them you know they once did with their spouse such as grocery shopping. If dad did the yard work, either offer to do it or help mom hire a company to take care of it. Help your parents find outlets for socializing, and encourage them to pick up an old hobby or find a new one, or take a class. 

Being part of a senior living community such as MorningStar of Albuquerque can be very supportive and give the person a sense of belonging. Other residents most likely have had similar experiences and have a special understanding of what the person is going through. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque, retirement homes is designed to provide seniors everything they want and need in a retirement home. Along with beautiful surroundings, an array of luxury amenities, hospitality services and five-star dining; we offer Personalized Service Plans for the activities of daily living (ADLs) to help maintain residents’ independence. For assisted living or senior apartments in Albuquerque, NM, contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.  Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

Try Balance Exercises to Reduce Your Risk of Falling

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than one in four people aged 65 years or older suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department.  In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death.  To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.

Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength.  Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed.  The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do.  

One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk.  This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.  Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides.  Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance.  Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds.  Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps.   

Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides.  Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds.  Now do the same with the other side.  Do each side 3 times.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we understand the importance of our resident’s living life to the fullest.  This is why we offer a Life Enrichment program that focuses on creative ways to stay physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually active.  Please see our website for more information about MorningStar’s assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.  Contact us or visit our website to learn more. 
Source: healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try

Explore Your Hobbies at MorningStar Senior Living

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

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

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

Of course, at MorningStar at Sparks, we understand that physical health is just as important as mental wellness when it comes to senior care. Our variety of fitness and wellness programs help our residents stay active and healthy. Our community is equipped with a state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with a variety of exercise equipment and plenty of space for seniors to engage in a variety of physical activities, from yoga and walks on our outdoor paths.
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Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

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