Habits That Will Make Your Senior Years Healthier

While it is true that we are all living longer, there are some steps you can take to help make those years healthier than ever.  The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors incorporate the following habits into their daily lives: eat a balanced diet; keep your mind and body active; do not smoke; get regular checkups; and practice safety habits to avoid accidents and prevent falls.

The Family Doctor website also offers some common sense advice on how even small changes in your lifestyle can improve your health even if you are already a senior.  Their primary recommendation is to add physical activity to your daily life and make changes to your diet.

By increasing your daily physical activity, it will help improve the strength of your bones and muscles.  In addition, we know that stronger muscles can help to prevent falls, and if you do experience a fall, those stronger bones are less apt to break.  By daily exercising, you can also help improve many chronic health problems such as diabetes.  

Seniors new to exercising should consult their health care provider before they begin.  Once they are given the go ahead, they need to start slowly.  Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do and experts suggest breaking up 30 minutes of daily activity into increments if it is easier for you.  Consider walking for 15 minutes twice a day or doing 10 minutes 3 times a day.   Strength training also offers seniors benefits but again the suggestion is to begin slowly.  Start with 1 or 5-pound weights and do a few exercises at a time.  Resistance bands are also easy to use and can help to strengthen upper arms and leg muscles. 

The article also suggests making changes to your diet. Try making small changes one at a time that add up to improved health.  Adding more fiber to your meals gets your colon working better and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. A heart healthy diet to try is the Mediterranean diet which promotes foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Lastly, they recommend you drink more water and eat more whole foods.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our community is designed to promote residents’ independence with a range of senior care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. For assisted living, we offer 48 suites and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 21 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Albuquerque, NM. 

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 more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque has to offer.
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Source:familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html

As We Age, Social Connections Have a Big Impact on Overall Health

Most of us know physical exercise is important to healthy aging. It can help us recover from injury, ease chronic pain, fight off depression and boost our energy level; but just as important are social connections. We are social beings and interacting with others has a big impact on our overall health. 

The American Public Health Association reports socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise. The National Institutes of Health reports elderly adults’ social participation reduces loneliness, depression and stress; and a robust social life enhances quality of life, self-efficacy and self-esteem. 

Michael Rambarose, President and CEO of the Whitney Center, a Life Care community in Hamden, CT, writes, “Socialization is like the secret ingredient that makes a healthy senior lifestyle come together.” Although he is quick to add its psychological benefits shouldn’t be kept secret. He explains, “We encourage the seniors that we serve and work with to make their social lives a priority. The people and loved ones we share life with can give everything else we do more meaning.”

Another positive consequence of socialization in older adults is it keeps the brain sharp and may even decrease the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease or slow it down. At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we understand the importance of community and staying engaged. Through wellness programs and activities promoting physical, intellectual, spiritual and social connections; residents can choose how busy they wish to be each day. 

In addition, we provide senior care and hospitality services along with luxury amenities and a choice of floor plans designed to feel like home. For exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque, NM area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely.

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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Welcome Home to MorningStar of Santa Fe

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

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

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

We encourage you to visit our website and view our virtual tour that shows off our beautiful spaces as well as background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living.  Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day.    Looking at the images, can you imagine yourself sitting in our attractive full-service dining room eating delicious meals created by our Executive Chef or watching a favorite film in our comfortable theater? 

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

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

Having Surgery? Tips to Help Your Recovery

Medical experts say there are things we can do before and after that may help encourage our recovery from surgery.  One of the first things Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, is to think of surgery not as a sprint but rather as a full marathon or race.  She explains, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after. You want your body to be as prepared as possible, and exercise and good nutrition before and after surgery are part of this."

Before your surgery, your doctor may have you screened for a series of health problems including malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and then take steps to address them.  As exercise is another important part of getting in shape, you should talk to your surgeon about what is safe for you to do.  If you feel you need more guidance, ask if you are a candidate for a pre-habilitation program as it can show you the best type of exercise to safely strengthen your body in readiness for surgery.  Also, be sure to ask about what kind of exercise is safe to do after the surgery.  Doctors say typically the quicker you are to move, the quicker you get your strength back.   

If you find yourself suffering from preoperative anxiety, ask your surgeon to walk you through the experience so you know what to expect including “pre-surgery, during surgery, the hospital stay and recovery after surgery," Dr. Fisher explains.   Your post-surgery diet should be rich in protein, and avoid sugary and processed foods.  Also stay hydrated.  Quitting smoking is another thing that offers big benefits in post-surgical outcomes as “smoking increases the risk of blood clots, reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to the tissues that need it and increases stress on the heart.” Finally, if something doesn’t seem right about your recovery, contact your surgeon.   

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we provide high-quality assisted living and memory care as well as respite care.  Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are recovering from surgery or an illness and require some day-to-day support services.  Along with providing a fully furnished suite, our respite residents are treated to three healthy and delicious daily meals created by our Executive Chef, 24-hour care and medication management.  Contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Albuquerque.

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

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery

You’ve Made the Hardest Decision of Your Life

As adults, our lives do not fall short of requiring us to make difficult choices. That doesn’t stop some from feeling tougher than others.  If you have recently made the decision to move your parent or loved one into assisted living or memory care, you are probably dealing with emotions of shame, guilt, and worry. Unfortunately, the reality is that even if this is the best decision for their health and yours, the guilt and sadness can still feel looming. If you’re adjusting to this new reality, it’s important to understand why you’re feeling this way and where this guilt may have come from to better heal and accept your loved one’s new transition in life.

If you feel as though you’ve failed to care for your parent or loved one by moving them into assisted care, that simply isn’t true. You have had to make a difficult decision that required prioritizing two different levels of need. Accepting help from a facility that is suited and more knowledgeable in senior care is more selfless than you may be feeling. In assisted living, your parent or loved one will be able to have supervision, help with everyday tasks, communicate with their neighbors, and receive healthy meals all without fail. At home, you may have had to cut corners or other things seemed to fall by the wayside, leaving you to feel stressed and overwhelmed. Assisted living allows both you and your loved one to be cared for and experience relaxation. 

Your parents don’t hate you. Perhaps when you were younger, they expressed the desire to never be in a nursing home or under supervised care. This sentiment may now be leaving you to feel guilty for going against their wishes. The truth is, while they may have never seen themselves within assisted care, they certainly wouldn’t want to feel like a burden to you or other family members, either. They couldn’t predict the future, and while they may be feeling a range of emotions and taking some time to adjust, they will come to understand that you made the right choice for them and you. 

MorningStar of Sparks in Greater Reno is dedicated to creating a true home for its residents and helping both them and their families adjust to their new lifestyles. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living options in Sparks, Nevada. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Nevada.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Senior Living of 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. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Sparks, Nevada.

Trying to Drop a Few Pounds?

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach your goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not over consume.  

This is where portion control plays a part.  Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that whole foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However, to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.”

For the area’s finest senior housing, Santa Fe, NM seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Santa Fe, a true destination for successful aging.  Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Santa Fe provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Visit our website for more information about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?

Whether it is chronic or happens every once in a while, most of us have had a restless night and woke up feeling tired. For some it is hard to fall asleep, while for others, it is difficult to stay asleep for the whole night. Sleep experts offer several tips for a restful night’s sleep and a more productive, positive day.  

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Sleep Research Society (SRS) explain sleep is as important to a healthy lifestyle as good nutrition and regular exercise. To become a better sleeper, it helps to know something about the different components of sleep.   

The current thinking for a normal night’s sleep is between seven to nine hours a night, or during a 24-hour period. They say to determine your optimal sleep amount, experiment for a few weeks by going to bed each night when you get tired and waking naturally in the morning. Another thing is to deal with health issues, which may interfere with your sleep, like restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, insomnia or other sleep disorders.  

The Mayo Clinic says it helps to go to bed at the same time each night and to wake up at the same time. On weekends try not to change your schedule by more than an hour. They also caution to not eat too heavy of a meal too close to bedtime and avoid nicotine, caffeine and other stimulates several hours before bedtime. The same goes for alcohol as it can make you fall asleep easily but causes you to awake in the middle of the night.  

Get plenty of exercise during the day but avoid doing it right before bed. Another tip is to create a calming atmosphere in the bedroom; and remember our smart devices emit glowing blue lights that experts say can disturb our circadian rhythm. 

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 the finest senior living Albuquerque offers. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.  We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: healthline.com/health-news/six-tips-for-better-sleep-053114#Three-Components-of-Healthy-Sleep

The Benefits of Walking for Exercise

A study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking.  Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.  

The 2½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail.  The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises.  The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.  

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.”  The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.  

Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes.  If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.  Along with our fitness room, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Phoenix offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix offers.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

Learn More About MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia

If you are looking for the best senior living Phoenix offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar at Arcadia.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our home, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our 80 private assisted living suites and 30 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations (including penthouse suites), and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.  

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including the fireside courtyard, dining rooms, library, theater, fitness room, salon and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, COVID-19 protocols; and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, available and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

Are You the Main Caregiver for an Elderly Family Member?

If you are the main caregiver for an elderly family member who requires help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), it may be the job is becoming too much for you.  The Nov/Dec issue of Today’s Geriatric Medicine cites a study by the “National Alliance for Caregiving and Caring Across Generations,” which states that more than 11 million American adults are considered sandwich generation caregivers and bear the responsibility of simultaneously caring for their children as well as an aging family member.  In total it is believed there are approximately 40.4 million unpaid caregivers for adults 65 years and older in the United States consisting of adult children, spouses, relatives or friends.  In addition, 61 percent of those caregivers are employed, including nearly half who work full-time and juggle their own family responsibilities.    

While for most, caregiving is a labor of love but there is no denying it can be challenging.  Whether you are an adult child with your own children, a spouse, or another relative, you may feel it is time to ask for help.  This decision may lead you to an assisted living community where mom or dad will receive all the care they need and you can go back to being their loving child.  If you are a spouse who has been responsible for the caregiving duties, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque warmly welcome married couples to live together in their own suite, surrounded by their own treasured possessions. 

We are pleased to give residents and their families peace of mind knowing that trained care managers are there to help navigate changes in health, and that transportation is available for doctor visits and other errands.  It is also a relief to know mom or dad will have nutritional, daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef, built-in companionship, and the comfort of knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed.  

In addition, MorningStar of Albuquerque has a team of caregivers who feel it is a privilege to serve seniors and understand that residents deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  Our community has 48 suites for assisted living and 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  If you are looking for outstanding memory care or assisted living, Albuquerque’s MorningStar community encourages you to contact us for more information about our beautiful home.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Sources: 

viewer.zmags.com/publication/d04ca42b#/d04ca42b/9

pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/11/18/5-facts-about-family-caregivers/

Fall Prevention is Important for Seniors to Practice!

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls.  As we age, medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall.  Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.   

However the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving.  The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving.  To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.    

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor.  Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives.  It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else.  Also talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.   

In addition discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you.  Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.  

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention.  Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed.  Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home.  Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance.  Install grab bars and railings where needed.           

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need.  Moreover our cherished residents and their families know they can trust the compassionate, professional MorningStar team to deliver the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for more information on unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

When a Parent is Having Serious Memory Problems

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

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

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

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia, we know something about the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provides a safe, loving home for seniors suffering from dementia.  If you are looking for trusted Phoenix assisted living or memory care, please give us a call.

MorningStar at Arcadia proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our Phoenix assisted living and memory care community.

Source: alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms

There are Many Fun Ways to Exercise Your Mind

We all know that even as seniors, physical exercise is important to maintaining healthy bodies but medical experts want us to remember that mental exercise is also essential to good brain health.  Luckily there are many fun and entertaining ways to exercise our mind and include an array of games on our tablets or computers as well as ones that only need pen and paper.  Games like Sudoku, mahjong, chess, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and solitaire are enjoyable and challenging ways to improve memory and stimulate the brain.    

Moreover, there is good evidence that supports this claim such as the study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.  The research team conducted a long-term study that found seniors who did crosswords four days a week had a 47 percent lower risk of dementia than those who only did them once a week.  

Also, while there is the perception that chess is only for those who are very intelligent, it turns out the skills used to play a good game of chess are ones we all should cultivate as they may make us smarter.  Experts says chess encourages “concentration and focus around ‘if then’ thinking, which is useful when making decisions.”  The game forces you to think a few steps ahead and that type of thinking can be especially helpful for older people who are navigating options in life and could use a little help with creative thinking.  

The good news is that many of these types of games are free or cost very little and even the Internet offers lots of options.  To play a game of solitaire, you only need a deck of cards but playing on your tablet offers many different varieties of games of which some may be new to you.  Crossword and Sudoku books as well as jigsaw puzzles can be ordered online and are very reasonably priced for the amount of entertainment you get.  They also make great gifts for seniors.  

We want you to know that MorningStar of Albuquerque is safely accepting new residents, and we are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus.  Our community offers 48 beautiful assisted living suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options.  We also have 21 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  If you are looking for the best assisted living Albuquerque NM offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

Source: sixtyandme.com/keep-your-brain-buzzing-with-these-free-brain-games-for-seniors/

Doctors Warn to Not Put Off Emergency Care for Fear of COVID-19

The medical profession is worried that people have put off seeing a doctor or coming in to the emergency room for medical conditions that demand immediate attention.  While many states are coming out of “stay at home” orders, doctors say there are still far too many people afraid to seek medical attention for critical care. 

Doctors fear that patients who need urgent care for conditions such as stokes, heart attacks, abdominal conditions, and bladder infections are not reaching out for help.  Moreover in some cases, by not seeking appropriate, timely assistance, there has been an uptick of people dying at home or suffering from irreversible damage caused by the lack of medical intervention.  Reports out of Spain, one of Europe’s hardest hit countries “found that the number of heart attack patients treated in healthcare facilities has plummeted by 40% since the onset of the virus.”  Hong Kong had similar reports. 

This is why hospitals and care providers around the country want to reassure the public that they are doing everything possible to keep you safe from catching the virus while getting the emergency care you need.  In fact most medical centers and hospitals have completely separated potential COVID-19 patients from the general public.  To ensure you get the critical care you need, healthcare providers say it is “crucial that patients identify key symptoms early and call 911 as soon as possible, regardless of the pandemic situation” 

MorningStar of Sparks is proud to be the most trusted senior living in Reno.  While temporarily closed to non-essential visitors due to COVID-19, we are still safely accepting new residents.  Along with 128 bright suites for independent living, we offer 80 suites for assisted living.  MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood also provides 32 secure suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please check out our website for a virtual tour of independent and assisted living in Reno and use our email link to inquire about availability and pricing.

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about the area’s most trusted senior living in Reno.  

Expert Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of Colds and the Flu

With lots of stories about viruses in the news every day, it is probably a good time to review some basics from experts about how to prevent spreading a cold or the flu.  To start with it is important to know how long someone is contagious.   

In the case of the common cold, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention explains that different viral strains cause the symptoms of a cold, such as rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, and coronaviruses.  Since each of these viruses evolves and adapt to their environment, it explains why we do not have a cure for the common cold. Experts also say that a cold typically lasts for about 10 days and that we are probably contagious for that amount of time.  

Depending on the person, influenza typically last for up to 10 days.  Doctors explain a person is contagious one day before they start having symptoms and up to seven more days.  The flu affects people of all ages but some groups more severely than other such as the elderly, young children and people with compromised immune systems.

Both the common cold and the flu are highly contagious and it requires all of us to be vigilant in not passing them along to others.  There are several good habits we need to adopt, especially in cold and flu season, and they start with washing our hands frequently (alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective), to avoid touching our mouth, nose and eyes, and to avoid contact with people who are sick.  Moreover if you get sick, stay home.  

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we help our residents and employees to all get a flu shot each year.  We also ask that if a staff member is sick, they stay home, and discourage families from visiting residents if they are sick or feel like they may be coming down with something.  MorningStar takes our responsibility to keep our residents as healthy as possible with tasty, nutrient-rich meals, wellness programs and a whole range of care services and onsite amenities.    

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us for more information regarding unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

When to Consider a Memory Care Community

Caring for a parent or a spouse with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is a difficult task.  As the disease progresses, families become concerned about their ability to keep the person well cared for and safe.  For some families, trying to hang on and care for a loved one at home may be creating a situation that is not optimal for the individual or the caregiver.  

Experts say there are signals that more care is needed such as is the person eating regularly and have they lost or gained an unusual amount of weight lately.  Do you suspect the person is missing medication doses or may be taking too much medication? Have they fallen recently? Have you found the burners on the stove left on?  Other warning signs may include aggressive behaviors, wondering, or forgetting where they are when they are out of the home. Neurologist Douglas Scharre, MD, director of the Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that “The main reason to move out of a home to assisted living is when there are not enough resources to safely care for the person with dementia at home.

Another reason for more professional care, and just as important, is caregiver burnout.  Experts explain that you should not feel guilty if caring for your loved one is taking a toll on your own health and wellbeing.  They also suggest the person may be bored at home. Assisted living communities with dedicated memory care have activities geared toward those with dementia, and the person may find comfort in being around those in a similar situation.  

If it is time to look at communities which offer specialized memory care, we suggest MorningStar at Arcadia.  Our loving Phoenix assisted living community has 30 secure suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide individualized memory care. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted living and memory care with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

Source:  caring.com/articles/move-parent-with-dementia-to-assisted-living

Community Living May be a Safer, Healthier Option

Since most assisted living communities offer access to 24-hour personal care, along with nutrition and wellness services targeted specifically for the needs of older adults, they may present healthier, safer options for some seniors so says A Place for Mom.  Residents are able to enjoy healthy social connections as well as peace of mind knowing the support they need to help maintain their independence is available 24/7.  

In fact new research suggests that the support services and programs provided by assisted living communities help seniors to avoid many of the mishaps and problems that are commonplace in the elderly.  One such problem way too common in seniors is failing to take medication as prescribed.  Skipped doses or too much medication can result in deadly consequences. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that up to 55 percent of older adults are “non-complaint” with their prescription drugs orders, and many are hospitalized each year due to adverse reactions.  

Dehydration is another commonplace problem experienced by the elderly.  As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes, which means older adults need to remember to drink even when they are not thirsty. Also some medications may be diuretic, while others cause a person to sweat more, which can result in dehydration.  

In addition, poor nutrition is one more problem many seniors face.  Some research even suggests loneliness is a significant predictor of malnutrition in the elderly.  It can be difficult for older adults who live alone to prepare good, nutritional meals or for their loved ones to supervise daily eating habits.    

MorningStar at Arcadia is committed to be one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ offers, and we provide the support services and physical environment to help seniors live as comfortably and safely as possible.  All of our assisted living suites are equipped with full handicap-accessible bathrooms. Furthermore, residents are served three, delicious meals a day tailored to the changing health needs of older adults.   Also, we provide 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews, and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. For more information, please see our website.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to schedule a tour of one of the best assisted living homes Phoenix AZ has to offer.

Source:  aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/

Choosing the Best Mobility Aid

If you or a loved one is starting to feel less steady on your feet and at risk of falling, a walker, cane or even a wheelchair or scooter is probably advisable.  However, before you start using a hand-me-down walker or buy any-old cane; experts warn that one size does not fit all.  In the case of a walker, to be an effective and safe mobility aid, it is important to have an expert help you pick out the best type and size for your needs.  

As AgingCure.com points out, “The wrong device can negatively affect a senior’s stability, cause posture-related problems and even result in pain. Mobility aids come in all shapes and sizes, so selecting the right equipment and achieving a proper fit usually requires a professional’s assistance and expertise.”  To get started determining what your needs are, experts recommend seeing your healthcare provider to discuss any problems you are having with your activities of daily living (ADLs).  If they recognize a need for a mobility aid, they may refer you to an occupational or physical therapist. 

The following are a couple of basic guidelines to know before you get started.  A cane can help provide balance and stability and is ideal for someone who needs to support no more than 25% of their body weight.  It is most useful for those minimally impaired or with weakness in one leg.   Walkers are available in a variety of models but regardless of the style a “correct height of a walker is measured from the floor to the wrist, and the elbows should be flexed in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.”  Experts also say the walker must be large enough to provide front and side support for the user.  

A motorized scooter may be the answer for someone who has lost the ability to walk any distance but still has an adequate amount of strength in their arms and upper body to stay upright as well as drive the scooter.  Again there are a variety of models including indoor and outdoor ones as well.  Keep in mind though that most insurance companies and Medicare Part B typically only covers scooters for in-house use.    

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of 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. We encourage you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/expert-advice-how-to-choose-a-mobility-aid-190138.htm

Does Mom or Dad Need More Help?

If your elderly parent lives alone, you may have wondered if they have an adequate support system to ensure their safety and comfort.  We encourage you to read some advice from the experts to determine if your parent needs more help to not just survive but to thrive!

Some of the things to find out are if they have had any recent falls or driving mishaps.  Do you have any reason to suspect they may be endangering their safety by forgetting to turn off the stove or other appliances?  Do you see signs that they are having difficulty bathing and attending to personal daily care activities? Does their house look unusually unkempt with dirty dishes lying around and mail stacking up?  Are there signs of spoiled food or an empty refrigerator?   

Also consider if your parent has health conditions that are making it more difficult for them to care for themselves.  Poor balance and failing eyesight can increase the likelihood of a fall and not having help close at hand can be dangerous.  In addition, if your parent no longer drives, they may be having a hard time getting out to the grocery store or to doctor appointments as well as becoming too socially isolated.   

Assisted living may offer the best option if your parent or spouse needs more personal care than he/she can get (or afford) in the home or in an independent living community, but does not require 24-hour medical care and supervision.  MorningStar at Arcadia was named one of top five best luxury Phoenix assisted living communities by Seniorly.com. Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and are proud to call MorningStar “home.” Please give us a call or email us with questions or to set up a tour to see our beautiful community in person.  

MorningStar at Arcadia’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional Phoenix assisted living community. 

Preventing Elder Fraud

According to the U.S. News & World Report, every year there are 5 million cases of elder fraud in the U.S., resulting in as much as $27.4 billion in losses.  Additionally, these crimes are often hard for law enforcement to prosecute because in many cases victims are too embarrassed to report the crimes.  The FBI says con artists also know that seniors do not make good witnesses even if they do report the crime due to the effects of age on their memory and the length of time it takes to bring a case to justice.     

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite, to believe people are basically good, and have a hard time saying “no.”  These are the traits con artists exploit.  Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger. 

A recent scheme that targeted a large group of seniors was a robocall that informed people they needed to return the call as there was a security issue with their social security number.  When the person called back, they were asked for their full name, address and S.S. number, and told their SS# had been comprised and they would be receiving a new one.   Authorities warn that if criminals obtain someone’s full name and SS#, it allows them to do all kinds of damage to the victim including trying to collect their benefits.    

Another scam is romance fraud, which involves a person being approached by the scammer through dating sites or other social media.  A relationship ensues through online contact but never face-to-face.  After a level of trust is established, the person is asked to send small amounts of money for alleged emergencies to test their willingness and gullibility.  Finally as the scam plays out, the person may give the con artist large amounts of money, or even be used to receive money or goods purchased with stolen credit cards or to transport drugs.       

The FBI warns that there are many fraudulent schemes to be aware of including telemarketing scams, Medicare scams, tax fraud, etc.  They say, “If you are age 60 or older—and especially if you are an older woman living alone—you may be a special target of people who sell bogus products and services by telephone.”  Remember to never give out personal or financial information over the phone or online and do not send money.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “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. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living Reno-Sparks offers. 

Sources: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/how-to-prevent-senior-fraud

fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-fraud-schemes/seniors