The Holidays Will Be Here Before You Know It

With the holiday season fast approaching, many of us are stumped as to what to buy for an elderly parent and other senior loved ones.  Experts suggest you keep in mind they most likely they do not need a lot of “things” but would appreciate something that helps to make their lives easier and/or more enjoyable.  

In fact, do not limit yourself to the idea that gifts have to be something new.  Many seniors enjoy getting out and taking them to an activity they love such as a sport’s game (maybe a game of their grandchild’s), a play, or concert is quality time spent together.  Another idea is to give them a series of gift certificates for a year’s worth of monthly dinners with you or for things like haircuts, manicures, a spa day with massage, or even ride services.  

As many elderly adults get cold easily, a comfy, soft throw blanket makes for a good gift.  Another thoughtful gift especially for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is a customized photo blanket.  They can be ordered through several large retailers and are not too expensive.  If your parent is a music lover, expand their collection with popular songs from their younger days, and if they don’t already have one, buy them a portable boom box that is easy to use.  

Another gift idea is to get them a phone or simplified tablet that will let them facetime, enjoy family photos, and browse the Internet.  Gift baskets filled with favorite foods or new soaps and lotions, non-skid soled slippers or compression socks also are appreciated by seniors.  Other ideas include large-print playing cards, puzzles, and adult coloring books with a new set of markers are also fun gifts for seniors.   

If you are looking for assisted living facilities in the Colorado Springs, CO area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.  We are committed to provide our assisted living and memory care residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community second to none. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique 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 as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs.

Learn More About Fall Prevention

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) states that, “falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten seniors’ safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs.”  They report one in four adults over the age of 65 fall each year and account for more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency rooms annually, and result in over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths. 

However they say falls do not have to be an inevitable result of aging.  Rather with some practical lifestyle adjustments as well as public campaigns on how to reduce the problem from the NCOA and other organizations, the number of yearly falls can be reduced.  The NCOA’s evidence-based Falls Free® National Action Plan was updated in 2015, and includes “goals, strategies and action steps to increase physical mobility, reduce the impact of medications as a falls risk factor, and improve home and environmental safety.”

The National Institute on Aging explains some of the steps seniors can take to help protect themselves from a fall.  The first thing is to stay physically active. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking or climbing stairs improves muscle strength and keeps joints, tendons, and ligaments more flexible.  Another fall-prevention tip is to have your eyes and hearing tested. If you need glasses, wear them, and if you have a hearing aid, wear it.   

In addition ask your healthcare provider if your medications have side effects that can make you dizzy or sleepy.   It is also important to get enough sleep and to limit the amount of alcohol you drink as even a small amount can affect your balance.   

Stand up slowly, and have your blood pressure checked if you feel dizzy.  If you feel wobbly when walking, use an assistive device such as a cane or walker.  A physical or occupational therapist can help you choose the right device and teach you how to safely use it.

During wet or icy conditions, use extra caution when walking, and always wear non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes.  Lace-up shoes give you the ability to adjust the amount of support you need, but do not buy shoes with soles that are too thin or too thick.  Around the house, wear shoes or slippers with non-slip bottoms.  

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our goal is to be one of the area’s best assisted living and memory care communities, and the safety and comfort of our residents is our highest priority. Please visit our website for more information, availability and pricing.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge “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 offer our residents the best assisted living and memory care in the area.

Sources: ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/

nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Have you recently noticed some signs of memory loss or confusion in a parent or another loved one?  Are you worried it may be the beginning of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  We understand this may be a touchy subject to broach with your loved one, which is why experts recommend you do your homework first and learn about the common signs of the disease.   

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in cognitive abilities, executive function and behavior.  Those afflicted may start having memory problems along with difficulty completing familiar tasks. They may also become confused as to time and place.  Other problems involve a marked change in their judgement and trouble with language skills and abstract thinking. Mood swings or changes in personality can also signal Alzheimer’s.  All of these are common signs that can point to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia but only a specialist can make a diagnosis. You should ask your loved one’s healthcare provider for a recommendation to a neurologist who will perform tests to eliminate other causes for the behavior.     

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is committed to provide the best senior living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. Please contact us for more information about our compassionate, loving community. We look forward to meeting you and your family.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge “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 offer our residents the best assisted living and memory care in the area.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes

A 2017 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than 100 million adults in the U.S. are now living with diabetes or prediabetes.  As of 2015, 30.3 million Americans (9.4 percent of the U.S. population) have diabetes and another 84.1 million have prediabetes.  Rates of diabetes increase as people age, and among those 65 years and older, 25 percent have diabetes.

That means more than one-third of U.S. adults have prediabetes, which is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes.   The CDC warns that if prediabetes is left untreated and steps are not taken to make healthier lifestyle choices as many as 15 to 30 percent of those people will have type 2 diabetes within five years.  Furthermore, one of their biggest concerns is the fact that the majority of people with prediabetes do not know it.   

While diabetes may be a common disease, self-management is a very important aspect of how well someone lives with the disease.  Organizations like the CDC and the American Diabetes Association strongly encourage anyone with the disease to get educated and learn about the latest medical therapies and treatment options.  

Your lifestyle can make a difference in managing or reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes including adopting healthier eating habits, increasing your physical activity, and maintaining or losing a modest amount of weight.   If you already have diabetes, these changes can help control the severity of the disease.

If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, are overweight or lead a sedentary lifestyle, you may be at risk for developing diabetes.  The American Diabetes Association warns that many of the symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed but early detection and treatment of the disease is important and can decrease the risk of developing complications.  They recommend discussing any concerns with your doctor. 

This post is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for seeking the advice of your health care provider. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines area offers. 

Source: cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p0718-diabetes-report.html

The MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Family

MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, first began forming the idea of starting a company from a desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He says his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  This simple but profound concept has driven the overwhelming success of our MorningStar brand.  Now sixteen years later, MorningStar continues to add communities across the Western U.S., including MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Assisted Living & Memory Care.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ goal is to create a true home for our residents - one that feels like a family.  To help us achieve this, our dedicated team strives to live up to our unique mission statement, which includes honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships and valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.  The last part of our mission statement is to invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well, as we know our brand demands committed individuals who will use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve our residents.  

We also aspire to and nurture our core values of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness to help us build our MorningStar family.  As one resident’s family member described MorningStar: “Your staff is amazingly prompt and always respectful. I never hear a harsh word or even see a frown. Each and every staff member is gentle, kind, thoughtful and never seems to be in a hurry. MorningStar has shown commitment and devotion to my family that is truly biblical.”

Are you looking for the best assisted living or memory care Colorado Springs offers? MorningStar at Mountain Shadows has an exceptional care team along with amenities and services unmatched by other communities. Please visit our website to learn more about our MorningStar family.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Join the MorningStar of Wheat Ridge Family

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our whole team is committed to being one of the finest assisted living and memory care communities in the area and to live up to our unique mission statements as follows:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics

• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence

• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents     

MorningStar Senior Living’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, began the company out of his desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He said his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Sixteen years later, MorningStar has continued to grow and prosper with over 30 communities in 10 states open or under construction.

Our team is made up of a group of individuals who do the right thing even when no one is watching and feel privileged to serve seniors.  Our compassionate community is filled with love and laughter as we aspire to and nurture our core value of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  These are the ways by which we want to offer care and build Family for Life. 

We are sure that once you learn more about our community you will agree with us that MorningStar is a great place to call home.  Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself our loving, home-like community. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge “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 offer our residents the best assisted living and memory care in the area.

Communities Specifically Designed to Care for Those with Dementia

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you may be coming to the realization that their needs are more than you can manage on your own and are ready for help.  If that sounds like you, it is now time to start researching the various care options in your area. 

One choice is to place your family member in a community specifically designed to serve the needs of those with dementia.  Memory care provides long-term, intensive care that is more specialized and comprehensive than assisted living.  Most are equipped to care for residents at all stages of the disease and include 24-hour supervision.  The communities are secure to   reduce the risks of wandering and many have features such as color-coding to help residents safely navigate through the hallways.   

You will also find the best memory care communities provide programs that address the needs of residents such as helping to calm or provide stimulation as needed and can actually offer your loved one a better quality of life.  Communities that provide memory care report they are able to reduce medications and medication side effects as well as increase nutrition and wellness.  They also say residents have fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; along with more independence and social interactions. Most importantly, memory care communities cite that as many as three-fourths of their resident’s experience improvement or maintain their level of mental functioning. 

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s mission is to provide the best senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. As dementia care experts, each day our energies are put toward continuing to find ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Please contact us for more information.    

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines area offers. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-11-4-memory-care/       

Exercising Our Creative Selves Enhances Quality of Life

According to many studies, the creative arts provide older adults with multiple benefits including improving cognitive function.  The Today’s Geriatrics Medicine’s website states that, “Current studies in the fields of art therapy, music therapy, and other creative modalities confirm that art can affect individuals in positive ways by inducing both psychological and physiological healing. We know that, in general, exercising our creative selves enhances quality of life and nurtures overall well-being.”

For many seniors, the creative arts can help relieve boredom, provide an opportunity to learn new skills, re-engage in life, and even help prevent feelings of depression and anxiety.  Experts say the arts also can bolster seniors’ self-esteem, and put them in group settings, which increases socialization and helps to develop interpersonal skills.  Moreover, with so many choices to choose from, a person is sure to find something of interest whether it is painting, drawing, sketching, pottery, music, dancing, weaving, or knitting among others.  Seniors also have the luxury of time to reconnect to an old hobby or passion.   

Being creative provides seniors with an outlet to express their feelings.  In addition, research suggests the arts may help seniors who are coping with chronic pain by lessening their feelings of discouragement and depression.  

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we strive to provide the best assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs offers, and we understand the value the arts have in helping our residents feel passionate and engaged in life.  In fact, each day our goal is to help residents continue to learn and contribute with activities that enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain, and encourage connection.  Our community has 45 bright suites for assisted living and includes spacious studios and one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  We have another 19 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please contact us for more information about our exceptional community.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Sources: managedhealthcareconnect.com/articles/use-art-therapy-geriatric-populations

arttherapyblog.com/c/art-therapy-seniors/#.XTKPKehKhPY

Pet Ownership is Healthy for Seniors

According to research, animals can help older adults lower their blood pressure as well as increase their social interactions and physical activity.  Studies have also found pets help seniors to cope with depression and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Pets such as dogs and cats are very loyal, loving animals and make great companions for seniors.

In the National Poll on Healthy Aging, sponsored by AARP and the University of Michigan, 2,051 seniors age 50 to 80 were interviewed.  Over half of the participants were pet owners, and of that group, more than 88% reported that pets added to their enjoyment of life.  Moreover 86% of them said their pets made them feel loved. The survey also reported that as many as 80% of the pet owners stated their pets helped them reduce stress.

Experts estimate that up to 40% of seniors feel lonely on a regular basis, which is problematic as loneliness is associated with poor sleep habits, higher stress and more inflammation.  In another study from 2012 by Pain Magazine, it was reported that “therapy dogs provided significant reduction in pain and emotional distress for chronic pain patients.”  The journal, Science, reports that just by looking into the eyes of their dog for at least 5 minutes, pet owners got a boost of the feel-good oxytocin hormone in their brain. 

Dr. Jay P. Granat, a New Jersey-based psychotherapist explains some of the benefits of pet ownership for the elderly, saying, “Dogs and cats live very much in the present; they don’t worry about tomorrow, which can be a very scary concept for an older person. An animal embodies that sense of here and now, and it tends to rub off on people.” 

What sets MorningStar at Jordan Creek apart from other assisted living Des Moines or West Des Moines offers?  We provide a true “home” for our residents.  Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents.  We also recognize the relationship that exists between a senior and their pet, which is why our community is pet friendly.   

Please see our website for more information regarding our pet policy and to learn about our various amenities, services, and support we offer to our residents and their families.    

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

Source: agingcare.com

Are You Considering a Walker?

Many older adults, especially those in senior living communities, are no longer as steady on their feet as they used to be.  This puts them in danger of a fall, which can have many serious repercussions on a seniors’ health.  If you are considering getting a walker to help you move more safely around, you need to know something about them.   

For starters since there are several kinds of walkers, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assist you on finding the most suitable one.  They will make sure it is your size as well as the right type.  To determine size, you should be able to stand between the rails, and the width of the walker should be level with the insides of your wrists. A professional will also teach you how to use the walker and provide tips for normal activities such as sitting down while using a walker.  This is done by backing up until you feel the seat of the chair behind you.  Now bend forward at your hip and reach behind with one hand to grab the armrest.  Do the same with your other hand as you carefully lower yourself onto the center of the chair.         

Common types of walkers include a basic walker that has four legs with rubber tips on each one.  To use, a person must pick up the walker as they take a step.   A wheeled walker can have two fixed wheels on the front that do not swivel side to side or have rubber tips on the front legs and small wheels on the back.  These walkers allow people to walk more naturally as they do not need to be picked up with each step.  A three-wheel walker has one wheel in front and two in back and offers the advantage of being lighter and easier to move around in smaller spaces.   

Rollators are four-wheeled walkers and can be equipped with a seat for a basket.  These walkers are equipped with hand brakes and are ideal for people who do not need to apply a lot of weight to the walker.  However, they are not recommended for people with dementia as they may forget to use the hand brake.   

Are you in the process of looking at assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you visit MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique 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 as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs. 

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Assisted Living

If you are looking for the best assisted living Des Moines or West Des Moines offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek. We provide 56 private assisted living suites that are specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors who wish to retain their independence but require a little help each day.  Once you decide that MorningStar is the place you want to call “home,” you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director to discuss your needs and set up a care plan that ensures your comfort, well-being and safety.  

Some of the services we provide include help with daily personal activities such as bathing and grooming; 24-hour Care Managers; a CPR-trained staff member on each shift, and a licensed nurse on call 24/7 and on-site 5 days a week.  We also provide regular Care Plan reviews, medication management, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, pharmacy services, and much more.  Each MorningStar Care Level has its own monthly fee and is based on the cost and time it takes to provide the service.    

In addition, we know that a good diet is important to keep seniors healthy, which is why we have a trained Executive Chef on staff that prepares daily meals that are both tasty and nutritional.  Our menu is tailored to accommodate various needs and tastes and includes low sodium, sugar free, vegetarian and low-fat choices.   

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s assisted living also includes a range of wellness programs and activities designed to entertain and stimulate our residents.  Along with scheduled transportation services, we also have special scheduled outings to local parks, shopping and other recreational venues.    

Along with our assisted living suites, MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood that are devoted to the specialized care of those with dementia.  We encourage you to visit our website for more information, and while you are there, set up a tour to see for yourself the caring environment that makes MorningStar a real home.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer.

The Affordability of Assisted Living

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we are honored to provide our residents with one of the finest assisted living facilities in the Colorado Springs area.  However we are aware that too many seniors and their families do not fully understand all of the services and amenities communities like ours provide.  Rather they think that assisted living is much more expensive than it actually is as they are not considering all it offers.  In fact a 2016 study found that for full-time care, assisted living is a less expensive option than cobbling together comparable in-home care, which can end up costing considerably more.   

You need to keep in mind that assisted living care at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows not only includes nutritious, delicious daily meals, but a full range of services including 24/7 care managers, and access to a licensed nurse.  We also provide scheduled transportation, medication management services, CPR-trained staff on every shift, scheduled physician visits, choice of physician, pharmacy services, and much, much more. 

Your level of care (we have five) is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and based on your medical history and current needs.  Due to the nature of memory care, it is provided at an all-inclusive packaged price. 

Furthermore, assisted living does not mean you will lose your privacy or independence.  When you receive the proper assistance you need each day, it will actually free you up to live a fuller life.  Also our beautiful suites are designed with our residents’ needs in mind and have their own entrance to ensure your privacy and comfort.  Another thing that makes living at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows feel just like home is we are pet friendly so you will not have to leave behind a beloved “member of the family” to move into our community. 

In order to really get an idea of all our beautiful community offers, we encourage you to schedule a tour.  Please visit our website to use our convenient link to set up a tour as well as for contact information and availability and pricing. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique 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 as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs.

Learn More About the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

We know it is devastating to have your loved one receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  While it’s a lot to process, please take comfort in the fact that there are a lot of resources to help you understand the disease as well as high-quality care options. 

One good resource for information and support is the Alzheimer’s Association website.  Not only do they discuss the disease and publish results of the latest research, but they also link you to the numerous ways you can take action in the fight against Alzheimer’s.     

To get educated on the disease, you may want to read about the stages of Alzheimer’s so you know what to expect.  The Alzheimer’s Association says the disease “typically progresses slowly in three general stages — mild (early-stage), moderate (middle-stage), and severe (late-stage).”  However, each person is different and so is the progression of the disease.    

In the early-stage of the disease, a person is typically still independent and engaged in normal life activities but is starting to have memory lapses including forgetting familiar words and the location of everyday objects.  In addition, family members are starting to be aware there are problems. 

The middle-stage of Alzheimer’s is generally the longest and can last for years.  During this stage, a person requires much more care to ensure their safety and wellbeing.  Anger, frustration and a greater depth of forgetfulness are indicative of this phase.  In the late-stage, a person loses all sense of their environment and the ability to communicate, walk, sit and, eventually, swallow.  Extensive round-the-clock care is required. 

For families in our area, MorningStar at Jordan Creek is ready to help.  We are committed to provide the best assisted living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer, which includes 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with memory impairment. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to care for those in the early-stage of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.   

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

Source: alz.org/alzheimers_disease_stages_of_alzheimers.asp

Better Health May Reduce the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

As some of the more severe symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are now associated to poor overall health, researchers stress the importance of maintaining healthy habits to help reduce symptoms of the disease.  They say that care should include getting the proper exercise, and eating a healthy diet as well as identifying and managing other medical conditions.   

Studies show that “light exercise and walking appear to reduce wandering, aggression and agitation.”  Additionally, getting the daily exercise appropriate to the person’s abilities also seems to help alleviate other problem behaviors.   

A person’s hearing and vision should be regularly tested and the appropriate steps taken to deal with any problems found.  They should also be routinely seen by their primary care physician along with visits to specialists to address specific needs.       

Eating problems are another common issue affecting those with Alzheimer’s and can put a person at risk for weight loss, dehydration and malnutrition.  For many the process of eating becomes more and more challenging, and they may no longer know how to use a fork or knife.  The progression of the disease can cause “nerve cell death that eventually steals the ability to recognize thirst or hunger.” 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows understands that dining is as much about community as it is about nutrition, which is why our memory care staff and residents eat together.  Also, out of respect for our residents’ sometimes compromised abilities at the table, we serve finger foods, texture-modified diets (mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids), and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.   

Looking for the area’s best memory care? Colorado Springs’ families know they can trust MorningStar at Mountain Shadows to provide exceptional care for their loved one.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source: alzinfo.org/articles/diet-exercise-health/    

Is it Time to Discuss Assisted Living?

Are you wondering if your parent or an elderly loved one is still able to care for themselves?  If they live alone, are you worried about their safety?  Do they seem to have lost interest in hobbies and activities they used to enjoy? 

Experts say it is important for family members to notice if a loved one is properly managing their needs and to be alert for signs that may indicate trouble.   Top of the list includes things like recent cuts or bruises, driving mishaps, poor balance, failing eyesight, and weight loss.  Have they become more forgetful and/or prone to wandering?  Do you have reason to believe they may recently have had one or more fall?  Each year falls in people 65 years and older account for 2.8 million injuries that require a visit to an emergency department, and include over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.  

Another common problem is managing medications including remembering to take them correctly.  One look at your parent’s medicine cabinet should give you a good idea if they are having difficulty with this.  Expired medications and meds still in the pharmacy bag mixed in with current prescriptions are not a good sign.   

While not always possible as emergency situations demand immediate action, experts recommend families begin the discussion regarding senior living options with their loved one early-on.  The conversation or conversations should be done in a non-threatening, relaxed environment, and if you can, try to end it with a plan.  Families must make sure the person understands they have their best interest at heart and to involve them in the process.     

Designate a family member to browse websites for available care options, and to discover the type of services offered at each as well as to get referrals from friends, doctors and others.  Experts say to keep in mind the level of care your parent will require now as well as in the future.  Plan to visit several communities for a firsthand look at the overall atmosphere including the interactions between staff and residents.   

Once you have narrowed down your choices to just a couple, set up tours for your loved one to see which would be the best fit for their new home, and if possible, plan to dine with the residents.  Also once your loved one has settled on a place, check to see if it offers short-term stays to give them the chance to try it out and make sure it feels like home!

MorningStar at Jordan Creek 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 toserve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Des Moines offers.

Its Important for Seniors to be Mentally Active

More and more research suggests it is just as important for seniors to stay mentally fit as it is to stay physically fit, and may actually help to keep older adults’ brains healthier.  Seniors who engage in meaningful activities also report they feel healthier and happier.  

The National Institute on Aging says these types of activities may protect the brain by establishing a cognitive reserve.  They explain “they may help the brain become more adaptable in some mental functions, so it can compensate for age–related brain changes and health conditions that affect the brain.” 

One study called the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) Trial, had good results in improving seniors’ mental skills in the areas they were trained in.  The study involved healthy adults age 65 years or older who participated in 10 sessions of memory training, reasoning training, or processing–speed training.  The most surprising result of the study is that ten years later most of the participants’ improvements were still noticeable.     

Brain activities can include reading a book, making a puzzle, doing crosswords or playing trivia and other types of challenging games.  Research also suggests that memory improvement is not only accomplished by targeted brain games or memory drills, but can come from undertaking a new skill or hobby.  Learning to play an instrument or a foreign language are also great, brain healthy activities.    

One of the best Colorado Springs assisted living facilities, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Every day we offer a variety of fun and engaging activities that include things such as exercise classes, word games, craft classes, card and board games, trivia, and a book club.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving community and while you are there, be sure to take a look at “More Scenes of Elevated, Celebrated Life.”    

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique 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 as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs. 

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

Seniors Need to Maintain Healthy Hydration Levels

If you are a senior, it is especially important not to wait until you feel thirsty before you reach for a drink of water.  Experts explain that by the time older adults feel thirsty; they may have already lost two or more cups of their total body’s water.  One of the first sign of dehydration can be a headachy feeling at the end of the day.  

As we age, our body’s ability to conserve water is diminished, and as such, we are more susceptible to water and electrolyte imbalances.  Seniors also have a diminished sense of thirst, which means they may forget to drink enough fluids and become dehydrated.  In addition, many medications commonly taken by the elderly have side effects that can cause dehydration such as blood pressure medications, heart disease medications, antihistamines, laxatives, and diuretics.  Diuretics, also known as water pills, are often taken by seniors with high blood pressure or heart problems as a way to reduce the amount of fluid in the blood vessels and ease the pressure on the walls.  

There are useful tips that can help seniors to remember to drink enough fluids and to maintain healthy hydration levels.  To make it easy to stay hydrated, keep water in an easy-to-use water bottle. To add more electrolytes to your water and to give it some extra flavor, add a slice of lemon or lime to your water.  It is recommended you drink moderate-size portions spread out through the day rather than drinking it all at once. Add ice to keep it cold, and to make drinking water a habit, try to drink it at the same times throughout the day. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Littleton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living Littleton CO has to offer.     

When is it Time to Consider a Memory Care Community?

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

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

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

If it is time to consider an assisted living community with specialized memory care, we suggest MorningStar of Wheat Ridge.  We offer 19 secure memory care suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide individualized memory care.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge “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 offer our residents the best assisted living and memory care in the area.

National Assisted Living Week® – A Time to Recognize the Many Benefits It Offers!

Even if you are new to assisted living, you have probably already realized the many benefits it offers you and your family.  Along with hundreds of thousands across the nation, you have seen that by providing the various levels of medical and personal care a resident needs, it not only improves quality of life but promotes independence.

During September the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) gives you the chance to recognize the role assisted living plays in providing America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities the care they need.  Since 1995 the NCAL has sponsored a National Assisted Living Week® that lets residents, their families, staff, volunteers and surrounding communities acknowledge its numerous benefits.  The event “encourages assisted living communities around the country to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care.”

This year’s “Week” kicks off on Sunday, September 8th and runs through Saturday, the 14th with "A Spark of Creativity" as its theme.  Organizers hope to inspire residents to tap into their creative side as they explore the many benefits of art therapy and beyond.  According to the American Art Therapy Association, benefits include: improving cognitive and sensory-motor functions, fostering self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivating emotional resilience, enhancing social skills, and reducing and resolving conflicts and distress.

Moreover the NCAL says this year’s theme also hopes to inspire the staffs of assisted living communities to further augment their person-centered care to residents.  Everyone in the community is encouraged to help develop ideas and organize activities that will improve the quality of life for the residents they serve as related to the A Spark of Creativity theme.       

An example of an idea for your NALW is Resident Inspiration Boards.  Staff members help each resident gather family pictures, images of activities or things they love, inspiration quotes, goals they aspire to, and more.  After it is complete, it can be hung in the resident’s room where it will serve as a great conversation starter as well as a way to get to know the resident better.   

The NCAL’s website offers a complete “Planning Guide and Product Catalog” to help with this year’s preparation.  You will also find an official printable logo, copies of sample press releases and social media posts regarding significant events, services, programs, awards, proclamations and more.  Join your assisted living community in celebrating this important week!

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

Source: https://www.ahcancal.org/ncal/events/nalw/Pages/default.aspx

Learn More About MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ Assisted Living

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into an assisted living community, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are ready more than ever to lead productive lives.    

Along with supplying built-in companionship, assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Mountain Shadows strive to enrich the lives of residents with a range of activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.  In addition, it solves the problem of many elderly adults who live alone that find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living at our gorgeous community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover, if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that with scheduled transportation to area shopping as well as trips to medical appointments and to run errands.   

Our holistic approach to assisted living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassion.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment.  And if we do not have a program or activities that peaks your interest or offer a hobby you would love to explore, we invite you to start a club.    

If you are looking for the best assisted living or memory care Colorado Springs offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar at Mountain Shadows “home.” 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.