How to Support a Senior’s Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing in Assisted Living

June 26, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Seniors often experience bouts of depression and anxiety, especially if they are struggling with different life changes. For seniors in assisted living, their mental health can be impacted by changes in memory, grief, leaving a lifetime home, health concerns, and a myriad of other difficulties. Knowing this, senior living communities like MorningStar Senior Living Jordan Creek, dedicate time to supporting a senior’s mental health and emotional well-being in the following ways:

Creating a Caring Assisted Living Community

When seniors transition to assisted living they may feel overwhelmed and unsure about their situation. This is especially true if they are struggling with other factors outside of their control, such as memory loss, immobility, or personal life changes. Offering community to our residents is a top priority. Assisted living communities with easily accessible amenities and activities promote good mental health in seniors by encouraging them to leave their rooms, socialize, and participate in hobbies that bring them joy.

Personalized Senior Care

No two seniors are the same. This is why we emphasize personalized senior care over a one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. By considering each senior’s preferences, interests, concerns, and symptoms, our assisted living staff can provide better support and care. Our staff at MorningStar works to know our residents personally, making it easy to identify when something shifts in their personality or routine.

Balanced Meals

Seniors who are experiencing mental health concerns may stop cooking for themselves in their homes. This can make health concerns worse, on top of other worries like malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies. Providing balanced meals with ample options keeps seniors healthy at MorningStar and works to promote great mental health in seniors.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar.

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

The Quest to Stay Young

June 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Market analysts report the anti-aging industry is valued at $40 billion and estimate an increase up to $60 billion in the next eight years. Much of this is due to a culture that considers old age to be a problem that needs fixing; with people investing in expensive creams, procedures, exercises and other interventions to fix the “problem.”

Scientists say in reality old age is probably more varied and modifiable than most of us think. In fact studies show the leap from middle age to late life has no definite biological tipping point. Eric Verdin, president and CEO of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in CA, reports, “There is an incredible amount of variability between different people.” His research has convinced him that a person’s biological age is more important than their chronological age. Recently the journal of Psychology and Aging published findings that support pushing up the number of what is considered old age.

As people start to live longer, they want to postpone the age in which they are considered old, which many see as a negative condition. In fact experts say old age stereotypes have steadily become more negative over the last 200 years and have fueled “what some call a worldwide crisis of ageism.” This can be problematic as studies find even one’s beliefs regarding old age can lead to worse physical, mental and cognitive health.

While we do know everyone ages differently, it has brought a group of people known as “superagers” to the attention of researchers who want to study why some people remain relatively youthful and healthy long after 70. They speculate one reason may be studies that show adults with a better attitude toward aging are often healthier than their peers.

At MorningStar of Littleton, our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We specialize in offering residents the finest independent living and assisted living to enable them to live their best life. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, our distinct memory care is dedicated to caring for their individual needs. Please contact us to learn more about the most trusted senior living Littleton, CO offers.

Offering Support to Someone Who Is Grieving

June 07, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

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

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

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

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

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

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

May 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows in Colorado Springs is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which takes a unique, holistic approach to its senior living communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless.

Our company has thrived and expanded since its conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living. From there our mission statement reads: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.

Even the name MorningStar has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a name that spoke to the passion I have to bring loving care to seniors.” The name—MorningStar—comes from a verse where Jesus said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star” (Revelation 22:16).

At the Mountain Shadows community, we offer assisted living suites in a range of floor plans and configurations. Amenities include all-day, restaurant-style dining; fitness room; salon; bistro; theater; fireside patio; scheduled transportation; and more. Services include 24-hour care managers, a full-time licensed nurse (on call 24/7), electronic health records and medication management. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care to those living with memory impairment.

As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, wellness programs, activities and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Please visit our website for information about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Browse through our online pictures and then use the link to set up a tour to see our home firsthand. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar’s senior living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

How to Tailor Your Assisted Living Experience to Match Your Needs at MorningStar Senior Living

May 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Finding the best assisted living home for you or a senior loved one can be hard. All of the senior living options available can make the process overwhelming, but by taking the time to research and evaluate your options you’ll likely come to find that you should want an assisted living experience that matches your loved one’s needs and wants. Keep reading to learn how MorningStar Senior Living can help you tailor your assisted living experience to match your needs.

1. Evaluate Your Needs and Preferences

The first step to finding senior living that meets your needs is to determine the level of care you or your loved one needs. If you are searching for assisted living, be sure to track what needs your loved one requires more help with than others. Be sure to factor in any medical support, medication management, or possible future memory care as this can contribute to your loved one’s overall senior living experience.

2. Look for Personalized Care Plans

Choose communities that offer personalized care plans. Personalized care plans make it easy for families and residents to tailor their care routine to their specific needs and preferences. Rooted in holistic practice, personalized care is made to be adaptable, meaning that the care and services can and should change and evolve over time. This flexibility ensures that care remains relevant and effective over time. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, every aspect of life is tailored to individual needs, from meals to activities and even spirituality.

3. Find an Active Senior Community

MorningStar offers a wide range of activities tailored to residents’ interests. Engaging in these activities helps maintain independence, boost social connections, and build relationships. Building relationships with other residents and staff can enhance your experience and create a supportive community that helps you feel supported and welcomed.

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Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

April 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

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

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

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

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers assisted living residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an abundance of amenities. Amenities include beautifully prepared, nutritional meals; theater; fitness room; salon; bistro; scheduled transportation; and a variety of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

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 in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

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

A Healthy Diet Can Improve Bone Health

April 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

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

Why Regular Family Visits Are Important for Seniors

April 17, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Life gets complicated. We know how hard it can be to routinely visit with a loved one in senior living. Between careers, pets, family, traveling, and other life events, it can be difficult to make enough time to visit a loved one in retirement. However, the benefits for maintaining a strong connection with your senior loved one has some lasting benefits.

At MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines, we pride ourselves on creating a comforting environment for seniors and their families to enjoy. Our community is conveniently located near I-35, I-235, and I-80 and next door to Jordan Creek Town Center, the largest shopping complex in Iowa. Inside our community, you and your loved one can enjoy a private dining room for intimate dinners, a theatre, a library, a sunroom, and decorated courtyards. Like our residents, we value open communication and the involvement of family members in all the activities and events hosted at MorningStar.

Family is deeply valued at MorningStar. Our loved ones have so much to teach us about life. When we regularly visit with our elders, we create lasting memories that inspire and comfort us. While it may be difficult to grasp, our loved ones won’t always be around, so it’s important to value their time with us while we can and participate in fulfilling activities and communication.

Many seniors look forward to having some alone time in retirement, but too much can be a bad thing, especially if they are still adjusting to a new assisted living home. While they will surely make new friends in no time, they will miss their close family. Seniors can begin to experience bouts of depression and discouragement if the family seems to be uninterested in visiting or communicating. Life may get complicated, but it is important to remember the vital connections of family.

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Senior Living Offers Transportation Solutions for Seniors with Alzheimer’s

April 03, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Memory loss diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia greatly limit a person’s ability to participate in the world the same way they once had. This is especially true for seniors with Alzheimer’s who may already face added difficulties, like immobility or health care concerns. While it is not wise to let a senior with a memory loss disease navigate the outside world alone, there are probably still times when they want to leave the home to experience life, go to doctor appointments, hair salons, or the grocery store.

If your loved one has just received a memory loss diagnosis, you may be looking for Alzheimer’s care solutions in your area that provide the highest level of care available. Life doesn’t end just because of a diagnosis. MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co offers families transportation solutions for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Some of these solutions include:

Easily Accessible Amenities and Infrastructure

MorningStar’s senior living and memory care communities incorporate easily accessible infrastructure into their communities. This means making the things seniors love to do easily within their reach without having to worry about transportation or safety worries. Even seniors with mobility concerns can experience on-site amenities like attending movies in the movie theatre, getting their hair done at the staffed salon, and sharing coffee with a friend at the bistro.

Community Transportation Vehicles

There are some things senior living communities cannot provide within their walls. Doctor’s appointments, family visits, large grocery stores, and other shopping are sadly more difficult for seniors to get to from their care community. Senior transportation vehicles help make it possible for residents to run errands in the community without driving themselves and with a staff chaperone.

Campus-wide Events and Celebrations

Of course, there will be some seniors who really struggle to experience life outside of senior care. This is why senior living communities advocate bringing events and celebrations in side the building for residents to enjoy. Most, if not all, holidays are celebrated, but there are other events that staff love to plan for residents that help promote socialization and overall happiness.

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care in Littleton, Colorado

Memory care communities like MorningStar offer a safe living environment and specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other forms of memory loss. Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior Senior Living in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact our staff today to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Littleton. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see our exceptional independent and assisted living offering in Littleton, Colorado.

Tips for Your Next Doctor’s Visit

February 21, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Have you had the experience of walking to your car after a doctor’s visit and a question pops into your mind you wished you had asked the doctor? You are not alone. In fact, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), a division of the U.S. Dept. of Human Health & Services, reminds all of us about the benefit of preparing questions and accurate information ahead of time to provide to your physician. They say it not only improves your care, but builds trust between you and your healthcare provider, which can lead to better results.

For help on questions to ask to facilitate a more fruitful visit to your doctor and efficiently use your precious time (studies show doctors spend between 13 to 24 minutes with each patient), the AHRQ offers a series of questionnaires related to your visit. Remember typically you have a reason for the visit such as: a well visit, looking for answers for a specific medical problem, returning to discuss treatment, or getting test results. Prepare for your appointment by bringing your prescription medications as well as over-the-counter drugs you use including vitamins and dietary or herbal supplements.

When discussing a possible medical procedure, AHRQ says questions should include: why do I need this procedure; how do I prepare; when will I get the results; and how will I feel afterward? If surgery is recommended, ask if there are alternative treatments available that are just as effective; possible complications; and recovery period. AHRQ says if you are given a new medication, ask how the new drug will interact with other drugs you are taking, how long you will be on it, and common side effects. Before you leave your appointment, make sure you understand your instructions.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: ahrq.gov/questions/be-engaged/index.html

Better Food Choices for Seniors with Alzheimer’s or Dementia

February 21, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

We all know that making healthy food options benefits our bodies, but did you know our food choices impact our brain health, too? Making informed choices about what foods are beneficial for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia can greatly improve their health and happiness.

There is currently no evidence to suggest that certain foods can prevent Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. However, there are still healthy food choices and eating habits you can make to improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Senior living communities that specialize in Alzheimer’s care encourage these food choices for seniors:

Nutrient-Rich Foods:

MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co offers Alzheimer’s care options that encourage healthy eating through their “BrainWise” program. “BrainWise” is a lifestyle at MorningStar where we prioritize using ingredients known to support brain health. Superfoods, like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens, supply your brain with vitamin K, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants. Natural fats found in SuperFoods are proven to nourish, protect, and enhance the performance of our brain cells.

Foods with Cognitive Benefits:

Next time you’re dining with your family member at MorningStar, ask our executive chefs for meals with turmeric, broccoli, or pumpkin seeds. These foods are rich in magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper and are known to support cognitive health. Are chefs design seasonal menus that feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible, to support the health and wellness of our residents in memory care.

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Near You in Littleton, Colorado

Memory care communities like MorningStar offer a safe living environment and specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other forms of memory loss. Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Explore This Easily Accessible Community for Seniors in Iowa

February 19, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Once a senior retires, they may begin to feel removed and distant from their community, friends and family. This may be because they are no longer participating in a routine of getting ready for work, commuting, and planning out the rest of their evening. They are no longer socializing as much as they once were, and with time, friends and family may move away or experience the life changes that keep them from communicating or visiting as much as they once did.

Not only this, but changes in eyesight, mobility, and coordination may make it more difficult for seniors to drive to and from locations and activities. This can be greatly discouraging for seniors who rely on transporting themselves to places outside of the home, not to mention dangerous. All-inclusive senior living communities like MorningStar prioritize easily accessible amenities and activities for seniors aged 55 and up. Amenities ranging from a staffed salon to gyms and theatre rooms are all within walking distance from senior living apartments. Easily accessible assisted living communities benefit seniors in the following ways:

Independence and Autonomy

Seniors want to complete tasks on their own. With minimal supervision, seniors in assisted living at MorningStar can safely get to and from their errands. Whether it is to the dining hall or the secluded courtyard, seniors are encouraged to explore their community and complete tasks throughout their senior living neighborhood.

Convenient Access to Services and Amenities

As mentioned, seniors can complete their day-to-day maintenance at MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines. For those who struggle to drive themselves to complete tasks, on-site salons, bistros, workout rooms, and libraries make it easy for seniors to build a routine similar to how they would care for themselves previously.

Community Inclusion

A close-knit senior living community like MorningStar offers seniors more chances to be social and experience comradare with their neighbors. Being part of an active and social assisted living community helps seniors feel connected to the place they live and can make amenities and activities much more exciting.

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MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Offers Comfort, Wellness, and Community

February 12, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

If you still think assisted living is an “old person’s home,” you could not be more mistaken. Today’s senior living communities are a far cry from old-fashioned facilities like nursing homes, and offer a vibrant lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. As a resident, you have opportunities to grow, learn and contribute.

Skilled nursing facilities (SNF) had their beginnings decades ago as “nursing homes,” and in a time when there were few other options for senior care. Today SNF typically focuses on short-term rehab including helping patients discharged from the hospital after surgery or illness. SNF staff include RNs and CNAs, and specialize in serving residents in fragile and declining health.

Assisted living is designed to assist residents with the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as toileting, dressing, and bathing. However, assisted living communities like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provide much more than just physical care. Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home. MorningStar’s services help families by providing transportation to doctor appointments and other errands as well as onsite supportive services from third-party providers including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs.

MorningStar’s services also include providing housekeeping to ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean. By taking care of meals, we help residents get the daily nutrition they need. Moreover, meals are served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends. We also help with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications. We solve this by offering medication management services.

Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Colorado Springs. Our beautiful community has 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Excellent Senior Living Found in Littleton Colorado Recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association

January 26, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

With all the memory care options in Littleton, it can be overwhelming to pick the right senior living community for your loved one. When looking for Alzheimers care options, it is important to know if a memory care community will meet the needs of your loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

On behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association, they have developed a certification that recognizes senior living communities that prioritize exemplary assisted living and Alzheimer’s care for seniors. This award brings peace of mind to families looking for the best Alzheimers care Littleton Co has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Littleton and their memory care programs have been recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association as a “Recognized Leader in Dementia Care” for these reasons:

Innovative Alzheimer’s Care

MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co has a unique approach to Alzheimers care. As a facility dealing in the service of memory loss, combats worries surrounding a memory loss diagnosis through a compassionate Alzheimer’s care approach that they call “Lavender Sky.”

Under a “Lavender Sky,” memory care providers thoughtfully “enter, embrace, and explore” the realm of dementia. Instead of falling into a passive approach toward memory loss, “Lavender Sky” is a holistic approach that accepts the difficult diagnosis while pledging to enter into this new reality with intentional care and empathy.

Specialized Memory Care Training

An Alzheimer’s Association accreditation requires senior living communities to demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and education related to Alzheimer’s and dementia care. MorningStar requires all of our staff (culinary, housekeeping, front desk, and caretakers) to go through Lavender Sky training. This training program ensures that all staff have a deeper understanding of what dementia is and how to properly respond if a resident might require additional support or changes to their memory care plan.

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Near You in Littleton, Colorado

Memory care communities like MorningStar offer a safe living environment and specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other forms of memory loss. Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Finding the Best Senior Living Community for Yourself or a Loved One

January 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior living in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, you know there are many options. This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care. If you are a senior who needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living your life to the fullest. In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation and housekeeping. They also often provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of activities, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that have a specialized memory care area. The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer all of that and more. We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a staff who feel called to serve seniors. Our beautiful community has 45 assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Tips to Prevent Falls

January 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls. 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 aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance. Install grab bars and railings where needed.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. If you are looking for senior living in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

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

What is the Most Affordable Senior Living Option?

January 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Thinking about senior living care can be overwhelming for many families, especially when it comes to cost. Many people don’t know what steps to take to find their loved one affordable assisted living care. The process may seem daunting and overwhelming, but we are here to help you make the right decision for you and your family members.

Establishing what level of need your loved one requires is a great start to finding the right senior living community for your parent, spouse or family member. All-inclusive senior living is a great consideration for seniors looking for easily accessible amenities, affordability, executive chef-created meals, safe living situations and active senior events and activities.

What is all-inclusive senior living?

All-inclusive assisted living is a type of senior living arrangement where a single monthly fee covers a comprehensive range of services, care, amenities, and housing expenses. This approach simplifies the cost of senior living by bundling various services into one predictable, monthly package.

What Makes All-Inclusive Senior Living More Affordable?

All-inclusive senior living minimizes the need for separate payments for individual services. For seniors in need of assisted living care, services, caregiver chargers, medications and therapies can add-up on top of paying for their home and routine maintenance.

Assisted living that bundles services, care and amenities provides seniors with more access to the things they need with less worry about mundane stressors like chores, errands, bills and housework, much of which is difficult for them to manage on their own.

With most all-inclusive assisted living, your level of care can also determine the cost of monthly services. This can be helpful to many families, however, as you only pay for the services and care you need, not the ones you don’t,

Affordable Senior Living Options in Iowa

Assisted living at MorningStar includes three daily meals, plus snacks, a 24-hour on-site nurse, life enrichment teams that plan events and activities, community involvement, and other social initiatives that encourage active and healthy seniors. There is also a wide array of amenities, like a movie theatre, salon, bistro, courtyard, garden, and much more. This is what makes all-inclusive senior care so valuable.

To help you to explore options, MorningStar has partnered with Elderlife Financial Services whose agents are here to offer education on the financial resources potentially open to you in paying for independent living, assisted living, or memory care.

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Help Your Elderly Parent Practice Good Medication Management

January 05, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking at least one or more prescription medications daily. In fact, the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.” Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interactions, an area of special concern for the elderly.

Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state almost 450,000 older adults (65 years old or older) visit the emergency room each year because of adverse, or harmful, drug events. Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “take on an empty stomach,” and the adverse side effects.

Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous. Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork.

Store medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense for your parent’s needs. If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system. However, if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern. This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents take medications properly, and as we even order medications, there is no danger of them running out. Please visit our website for more information about exceptional memory care and assisted living in Colorado Springs.

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 to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

The Importance of Personalized Care in Assisted Living Senior Communities

December 27, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

No two seniors have exactly the same needs or health requirements. With this understanding, modern senior living communities, like MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines, pride themselves on providing individualized and personalized care plans for seniors in assisted living.

What is Personalized Care?

Personalized care is a care routine that is developed for one individual based on their specific needs, preferences, health concerns, medications, abilities and passions. Personalized care is individualized and custom-made for each resident at MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines.

Personalized care plans ensure that each resident is receiving the correct level of care that is most beneficial to the senior. By providing individualized care, seniors experience more independence and autonomy while feeling supported to explore the things they’re passionate about in the safety of their assisted living home.

Team members, caregivers and managers at MorningStar are kept up-to-date with each resident file, equipping them with the knowledge to provide the best assisted care possible to every senior in the community.

Adapting Care Plans as Needed

One of the greatest benefits of personalized care plans is their adaptability. Personalized care plans are made to be ever-changing, similar to the ebb and flow of seniors’ needs and abilities. It is likely your loved one will require more help with everyday tasks as their life continues in assisted living, and we are equipped to handle the changes.

Needs are evaluated regularly to confirm that each senior is receiving the proper level of care. Care plans can even be discussed through family and medical provider input, as we understand you and your loved one’s provider may have feelings or insight into changing routines or decreasing/increasing medications. We encourage these discussions, as it is our mission to incorporate the family into their loved one’s care as much as possible.

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Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline With a Healthy Diet

December 22, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease, and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite early studies showing MIND lowered the “risk of Alzheimer’s by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely.” In 2018, the MIND diet recommendation was expanded to include older adults who have suffered a stroke.

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy.

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer assisted living residents a healthy engaged lifestyle with luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our five-star dining experience features seasonal menus with the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible.

Meals at MorningStar include a variety of nutritional choices to allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options. Our chef also uses 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. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

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