Welcome Home to MorningStar of Santa Fe

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our goal is to provide residents with a comfortable, inviting home where they can safely age in place. Our services, amenities and wellness programs are all geared toward accomplishing this. Residents also receive the often overlooked benefits of community living such as healthy social connections and peace of mind knowing loving support is available whenever they need it.  

All assisted living residents have an individualized care plan created to help them maintain their independence, and our 24/7 care managers make sure the plan is carried out.  MorningStar’s care managers are dedicated, hard-working individuals who provide loving care to our incredible residents and enjoy building strong relationships with them. 

Many of our daily activities are just plain fun and include movie nights, trivia and card games, craft classes, exercise classes and much more. Our all-day meal service is targeted to seniors’ pilates as well as their nutritional needs. We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is the centerpiece of personal wellness that starts with proper diets and healthy choices. When enjoyed in community, it provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.

We also have a partnership with Genesis Rehabilitation, a leading provider of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory therapy for older adults. The alliance includes full-time, in-house Genesis therapists and expands our resident services in integrated wellness, promoting optimal independence and abundant life for seniors. 

Along with many support services, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides the physical environment to ensure older adults live as safely and as comfortably as possible.  Assisted living suites are equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and each unit has an emergency call system. In addition to 56 assisted living suites, we have 29 secure suites devoted to residents with memory impairment.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Santa Fe, NM offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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

The Best in Assisted Living at MorningStar of Santa Fe

Seniors often feel like a move to an assisted living community signals the end of their independence, but this is not the case at MorningStar of Santa Fe. Our goal is to provide the best senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers, with the services and care needed to give residents the best quality of life. Our beautiful community has 56 private assisted living suites including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.

We recommend families schedule a tour to experience our community firsthand, and we make it easy to do using our Virtual Assistant to set up the day and time. We will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm. However, while a tour is important, please browse through our website and watch the “Come In & Welcome” video, read the home page, and look at the full list of amenities and floor plans for an overview of our community.

Other informative sections on our website can be found under “First Steps.” We suggest you start with FAQs to get a better understanding of MorningStar and what is offered in our assisted living communities, various resources and care options. You will also find important information on how we determine a resident’s level of care and reassurances regarding our commitment to regularly re-evaluate care plans to keep up with changing needs.  

Our FAQs also give a quick overview of the training our staff receives, which includes an orientation program (and a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, and Lavender Sky dementia care training.  Our Medication Managers are trained Qualified Medication Administration Persons (QMAP). 

In addition, if you are looking for a new home for an elderly parent, you will appreciate our Decision Guide (also found under the First Steps tab) offering an in-depth discussion on how to decide when the time is right for senior living. You may also want to request our “Senior Life: How to have the best conversation ever with your elder parent,” a practical guide to understanding the psychology of advanced aging. 

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 has to offer.

Learn More About Hearing Loss

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

At MorningStar Santa Fe, our goal is to be the best senior living Santa Fe, NM offers, and we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our beautiful home has 56 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 29 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Santa Fe’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior assisted living home 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 residents the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

MorningStar at Arcadia Provides a Lifestyle of Comfort, Wellness and Community

If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar at Arcadia provide residents with all the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them safely age in place. Moreover, as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it. 

Right from the ground up, our home is designed to meet the needs and comfort of our residents.  We offer beautifully appointed common areas including inviting gathering areas, bistro, salon, fitness room, chapel, theatre, and an attractive dining room for all-day, restaurant-style dining. Residents also enjoy the outdoors with a fireside courtyard.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we recognize that good nutrition is vital to seniors’ health, which is why we put such an effort into the food we serve. Our Executive Chef inspired meals are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  In addition, we offer a range of nutritional choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  MorningStar’s Chef even uses “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens. 

Too often seniors assume assisted living means an end to their independence, but studies show the opposite is true. When older adults get the daily personal care they need, it helps to restore their confidence and frees them up to move forward with living life to the fullest. At MorningStar, we help you do so with extensive support services, wellness programs and activities. Our contemporary suites are move-in ready and just require your furnishings and personal items. For your safety and wellbeing, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. We are also pet friendly!

MorningStar at Arcadia provides 80 assisted living suites with the choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites).  In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website to learn what sets MorningStar at Arcadia apart from other senior living Phoenix offers.

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

The Cause and Risk Factors for Shingles

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone the chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a wash cloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

MorningStar at Arcadia is a true home where residents can comfortably and safely age in place. We have 80 suites for assisted living and 30 secure suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website to learn more about our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, and care services.     

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

Assisted Living Can be a Healthier, Safer Option for Many Seniors

Most seniors wish to maintain their independence as long as possible by living on their own; and this is why many who encounter problems in their day-to-day lives are reluctant to tell their families. The problem with this is as a senior starts to have more difficulty caring for themselves, their quality of life can be greatly diminished. 

Even if mom or dad seem to be doing well on their own, experts say a rapid decline in their health from an accident or illness can catch families by surprise and make living on their own dangerous. In addition, many health conditions affect musculoskeletal, neurological, circulatory or sensory systems and impact a senior’s ability to perform the activities of daily living (ADLs). Experts say other factors indicating a need for more help include social isolation, medication side effects and the physical characteristics of the person’s home such as a second floor bedroom. If after implementing a series of home modifications is not adequate, more measures need to be taken to keep your loved one safe. 

Experts explain unmet ADLs can lead to serious health problems including “malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and falls. In fact, studies show ADL disabilities are associated with an increased risk for mortality; and taking care of daily needs can help prevent new and worsening health problems.” They also report if family members notice a decline in a loved one’s overall health, taking steps now can improve their safety and forestall further problems. One solution is to make a move to an assisted living community, where a person can live as safely and as independently as possible. To ensure needs are met, homes use the ADLs as a measure of a person’s functional performance.

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque, NM’s MorningStar community may be your answer. Our beautiful community has 48 assisted living suites offering residents’ peace of mind knowing compassionate help is readily available whenever they need it. We also have 21 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please see our website for more information about MorningStar of 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 memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Santa Fe

Today’s assisted living is not just another term for a nursing home, which is intended for people who require skilled, around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Rather assisted living, the most popular and fastest growing long-term care option for older adults in the U.S., is designed for seniors who cannot get the help they need or afford while living at home or in an independent living community. The first community in the U.S. opened in the late 1980s. The concept quickly took hold out of consumers’ distaste for nursing homes and the desire for something offering the services, safety and amenities seniors required while still supporting and encouraging their independence.  

Assisted living recognizes seniors as productive, contributing individuals who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities offer private suites and most are equipped with kitchens for the meals residents wish to cook. At communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe, meals and transportation are provided, and residents can get help with activities of daily living including bathing, grooming, dressing, transferring, toileting, etc.  Residents feel comforted having the security and safety of 24-hour support, and families’ rest easy knowing that a trained, caring staff is available to help whenever their loved one needs it. 

Residents of MorningStar appreciate the ease of built-in social connections and predictable budgeting as well as activities designed to engage them physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Amenities include a bistro bar, theater, fitness room, library, salon and much more. 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.

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s MorningStar community may be the place for you.  If you would like to see if we are a good fit, we offer short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) and respite care for those recovering from an illness or surgical procedure. Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Santa Fe proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

Senior Communities of Today are Designed to Meet All Your Needs

Senior living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support.  For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments.  Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.  

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones.  In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute.  In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of dementia and we want to help in that effort.    

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar.  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 Phoenix offers.  

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living 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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

The Benefits of Moving into an Assisted Living Community

Too often seniors mistakenly believe that moving into assisted living means an end to their independence and their life as they knew it.  We want to reassure you that at today’s assisted living communities like MorningStar of Albuquerque; nothing could be further from the truth.  

Aging.com explains that while changes in a person’s ability to care for themselves can be caused by underlying medical conditions, studies show the importance of seniors receiving the assistance they need with the ADLs (activities of daily living). “Functional status and the ability to care for oneself have a significant impact on a senior's quality of life.  Unmet needs for help with activities of daily living can lead to malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and falls.”  

Another benefit of getting the help you need when you need it, is it actually gives the person a renewed sense of independence and lets them feel like they are once again in control of their life.  Independence promotes a sense of achievement as well as a sense of self-worth and purpose.  It inspires achievement, and reminds seniors that they still have a lot to contribute to their families, their communities and the world as a whole.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, one important part of our mission statement includes “valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  Thus, our entire community is focused on physical, intellectual, spiritual and social activities that present creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive each day.  Residents may also tap into their own unique talents and experiences by leading special interest clubs. 

Our beautiful home has 48 assisted living suites to meet a variety of needs from spacious studios to one- and two-bedroom floorplans as large as 700 sq. ft.  While enjoying their stylish private suites, assisted living residents have peace of mind knowing that help is readily available when they need it. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   For the area’s finest assisted living, Albuquerque seniors are encouraged to contact us for more information.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted 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: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

Do Something Special for Mother's Day this Year

The last year was challenging in many areas including not spending time with senior parents and grandparents, which is why Mother’s Day 2021 is a good time to celebrate the return to something more normal. Rather than sending a bouquet of flowers this year, show grandma, mom and other moms in your life your appreciation and love by giving your time. 

Do something special like planting a new rose bush or a tree, putting in a tray of annuals, or cleaning up the garden in readiness for summer. Commit to helping mom with a DIY house project like painting a room or helping clean up the attic or basement. Give mom and grandma the “day off” by taking over the cooking and cleaning up. For a simple dessert, set up a sundae bar with all the trimmings and let everyone make their own treat. 

If mom lives in an apartment, decorate her front door with a wreath or a huge homemade card signed by the whole family telling her how special she is. For a movie-loving mom, make a date to watch one of her favorite romantic comedies together in person or virtually. Other fun ideas include hosting a garden tea party or barbeque, and if you can’t get together, send mom all of the goodies you want her to enjoy at a virtual party.

Spend time together baking a fancy dessert or cooking a family favorite recipe for dinner. If mom lives close by, put together a basket of homemade goodies and deliver them to her door. The grandkids can help grandma feel loved by making cards or putting on a talent show or play. You or an older grandchild can “interview” grandma about her childhood and early adult years, wedding day, her years as a parent of small children, jobs etc. Whatever you decide on, just make sure mom feels special.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we strive to honor our remarkable residents each and every day. Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years.    If you are looking for the best senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn more.

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

Discover the Many Benefits of Assisted Living

Assisted living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support.  For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments.  Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar of Albuquerque are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.  

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones.  In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute.  In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.    

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar.  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 Albuquerque offers.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque represents the best in senior living 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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque NM offers.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque

MorningStar of Albuquerque wants to reassure families considering assisted living that if they put their loved ones into our home, we will see to it they receive the care they need.  Before the resident even moves in, our Wellness Director will meet with the family to thoroughly discuss the person’s medical history, current health condition, medications, and personal preferences.  In addition, we regularly review, evaluate, and update care plans to ensure changing needs are addressed.  

As a family member, some of your concerns may be focused on your parent or loved one’s medications especially if they have had problems taking them on time, all the time, or incorrectly.  If you want to know if we offer medication management, the answer is yes, and we also offer pharmacy services.  We consider medication management to be an important service to our residents as we know many seniors with chronic health conditions take several prescription medications daily, which can result in missed or improper dosages.  

Your initial meeting with our Wellness Director is also a good time to discuss concerns such as a parent who has been losing weight recently and who may not be eating properly.  Or it may be you worry they are not drinking enough fluids each day.  We have an answer to both problems as our 5-star meal service is designed to be both nutritional as well as to temp the appetite of our most discerning residents.  To help keep our residents hydrated, we make sure they have plenty of opportunities to drink throughout the day. 

Along with our compassionate care services and resort-style amenities, residents have a choice of well-designed floorplans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs.  Within our 48 assisted living suites, we offer floorplans that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations that provide residents privacy, comfort, and security.  You will find all of our suites have high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items.  Moreover, if you are wondering, we are pet friendly!  

For more information about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers, we encourage you to visit our website for contact information as well to inquire about pricing and availability.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Albuquerque, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

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

Did You Get Your Flu Shot? It May Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Not only do flu shots NOT make a person more likely to get Alzheimer’s disease, a myth that has been around for years, but recent research has found evidence that flu and pneumonia vaccines may actually protect you from Alzheimer’s.  This year’s 2020 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference presented two studies that dealt with this very idea.  

The first study was from the University of Texas where they went through millions of medical records in a national database with the goal of finding factors that appeared to affect a person’s risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease.  Albert Amran, a medical student of the McGovern Medical School at the university’s Health Science Center in Houston and an author of the study, relates that one of the commonalities was getting a flu shot.  Researchers took into account other risk factors for Alzheimer’s such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, education, and income as well as the number of prescriptions a person filled as a way to check their overall health.  Even after all that, Amran explained they found that “People who got at least one flu shot had a 17% reduction in risk, and people who got regular vaccinations saw their risk drop another 13%.

The other study presented at the conference was by a team of researchers from Duke University and the University of North Carolina.  Svetlana Ukraintseva, an associate research professor in the Biodemography of Aging Research Unit at Duke's Social Science Research Institute of Medical Records, said the team studied the medical records of more than 5,000 people at least 65 years and older.  In her presentation to the Conference, she stated they discovered individuals who had a “pneumonia vaccine before the age of 75 was at least 25% less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's.” 

While scientists are uncertain why flu and pneumonia vaccinations appear to protect seniors from Alzheimer’s, they have some theories.  One may be the fact that flu and pneumonia adversely affect the brain so protecting a person from the disease protects their brain from damage.  Another theory is that getting the flu or pneumonia can result in a general weakening of the immune system and ultimately allow more bacteria and viruses into the brain, putting them more at risk for Alzheimer’s.   

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.

Source:npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/07/27/894731147/flu-shot-and-pneumonia-vaccine-might-reduce-alzheimers-risk-research-shows

Foods That Can Boast Immunity

Right now, we are all looking for ways to help keep our families healthy.  In addition to practicing social distancing and washing our hands, experts remind us that eating healthy is more important than ever as it provides our bodies with the key nutrients that boost our immune systems.  This is important as a strong immune system defends us against the viruses that cause colds and flus as well as the coronavirus.  

Foods that are vital to maintaining a healthy immune system include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  One vegetable especially nutrient-rich, readily available, and easy to cook is broccoli. It contains vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as “sulfur compounds that research suggests may boost production of glutathione, an antioxidant compound. In terms of immune support, glutathione works by attacking free radicals to minimize their potential damage.” 

Another good source of vitamin C, which plays a role in keeping our immune systems healthy, is fortified orange juice and just one cup gives us 100% of our required daily dose. Fortified OJ also has vitamin D as do eggs, cheese, tofu and mushrooms that help make us more resistant to illnesses.  Beans, nuts, cereal and seafood all contain zinc which research has found may shorten the duration of the common cold.  Other foods high in nutrients include spinach, salmon, lean beef, and yogurt.  

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we provide a 5-star dining service to our residents that starts with meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients.  We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.”  These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens. 

Our team is dedicated to providing residents a safe, comfort environment where they can safely enjoy their well-deserved retirement years.  Currently we are accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Albuquerque, NM’s MorningStar community encourages you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about our loving community.

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.

Source: allrecipes.com/article/foods-that-boost-immune-system/

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

Time to Reschedule those Appointments You Put Off Earlier in the Year

Medical professionals are recommending you reschedule all of your medical and dental appointments that were cancelled or postponed earlier this spring and summer when we were sheltering in place to get the coronavirus outbreak under control.  Early-on in the crisis, doctors did not have the procedures and protective measures in place or the personal protective equipment to ensure your safety as well as theirs.  

Moreover as Dr. Carrie A. Horn, a hospitalist and chief medical officer and chief of the division of hospital and internal medicine at National Jewish Health in Denver, explains, “We did not have the knowledge of what was going on to feel comfortable bringing people into a public setting.”   Now more knowledgeable, medical facilities have the equipment such as masks, gloves and gowns, and the understanding of how long the air turnover is between patient rooms to keep people safe when visiting the doctor.  Also facilities have implemented temperature screening and other symptom checks to help keep sick patients from infecting others.   

Thus healthcare providers are urging those people who have not yet set up their mammograms and other routine cancer screenings to do so as they are an important preventive or diagnostic tool in our wellness.  The sooner a problem is detected, the quicker it can be addressed.  In addition think about scheduling annual physicals, blood pressure checkups, and other non-emergency health care visits. 

Another thing that was put off early in the pandemic was elective surgery, which doctors reminds us, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s optional or unimportant.  In fact many elective surgeries help improve one’s health and quality of life.   

Doctors stress any health conditions that require urgent care should be addressed immediately, and to call 911 if it is life threatening.  Other medical conditions that should be a priority include diabetes management, heart disease, and follow-up visits after urgent or emergency care.   Lastly do not forget to get routine vaccinations including your flu shot!  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living 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 all residents.  Please visit our website for contact info regarding trusted, loving senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/conditions/coronavirus-and-your-health/how-to-best-seek-medical-treatment-during-the-pandemic?int=hp_coronavirus_health

Eating Healthy is More Important Than Ever

Right now, we are all looking for ways to help keep our families healthy.  In addition to practicing social distancing and washing our hands, experts remind us that eating healthy is more important than ever as it provides our bodies with the key nutrients that boost our immune systems.  This is important as a strong immune system defends us against the viruses that cause colds and flus as well as the coronavirus.  

Foods that are vital to maintaining a healthy immune system include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  One vegetable especially nutrient-rich, readily available, and easy to cook is broccoli. It contains vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as “sulfur compounds that research suggests may boost production of glutathione, an antioxidant compound. In terms of immune support, glutathione works by attacking free radicals to minimize their potential damage.” 

Another good source of vitamin C, which plays a role in keeping our immune systems healthy, is fortified orange juice and just one cup gives us 100% of our required daily dose. Fortified OJ also has vitamin D as do eggs, cheese, tofu and mushrooms that help make us more resistant to illnesses.  Beans, nuts, cereal and seafood all contain zinc which research has found may shorten the duration of the common cold.  Other foods high in nutrients include spinach, salmon, lean beef, and yogurt.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, we provide a 5-star dining service to our residents that starts with meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients.  We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.”  These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens. 

Our team is dedicated to providing residents a safe, comfort environment where they can safely enjoy their well-deserved retirement years.  Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar at Arcadia offers the very best in Phoenix assisted living and memory care 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 give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community. 

Source: allrecipes.com/article/foods-that-boost-immune-system/

Your Best Defense against the Flu is to Get a Flu Shot

Along with all of the health concerns regarding COVID-19, medical experts remind the general public that the best defense against contracting the flu is to get an annual flu shot.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says while wearing a mask is “an important preventive measure against airborne viruses such as the flu, there is no guarantee that they will prevent transmission completely.”  So even if you are wearing a mask whenever you are out in public and/or unable to socially distance, experts stress you should still get vaccinated against the flu.

Part of the reason flu spreads so easily is a person can be contagious anywhere from 1 day before and up to 7 days after the individual is symptomatic, which means the spread of influenza can occur before the person is aware they have the virus and for days thereafter.  Moreover the flu can be transmitted indirectly by coming into contact with infected surfaces.  Therefore some of the same procedures we have adopted with COVID such as regular hand washing and sanitizing shared surfaces will help reduce the spread.  Also mask wearing is not a guarantee against the transmission of the flu but can help reduce community spread.  

The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot appropriate for the person’s age and health status (with some exceptions) every season.  For the most up-to-date medical advice, please talk to your health care provider about the flu vaccination.  

If a loved one requires help with daily personal care activities or is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we invite you to learn more about the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.   While MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community has only been open for a couple of years, we have quickly endeared ourselves to local families who know they can entrust their loved ones into our care.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with a 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 our residents.  Please give us a call for more information on luxury senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

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/