Why Choose MorningStar at Mountain Shadows?

You may have found that there are several senior living communities in the area and may be wondering what sets MorningStar at Mountain Shadows apart other assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs offers?  To start with, we provide seniors comfortable private suites and inviting gathering areas as well as scenic exterior patio and strolling paths.  Our home offers 45 assisted living suites along with 19 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.

MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities.  Assisted living at MorningStar offers five levels of care along with a wide range of auxiliary medical and non-medical services.  We are also proud to have earned a reputation as one of the leading memory care providers in the Western U.S.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers a holistic approach to caring for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

However, the thing that really sets us apart from other area senior living communities is our unique mission statements.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded by Ken Jaeger, whose intention has always been to provide senior housing that feels like a loving home (just like his grandmother’s) and offers a sense of “family.”  Our mission statements start by honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing heavily in our teams’ ability to serve well.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ extraordinary team is another reason we stand out from the rest.  Our team selection starts with heart, and we specifically seek out individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure residents receive first-class care and services.  Furthermore, we train our entire team in our culture we call Radiance, which lovingly guides the way we deliver service. 

We invite you to visit our website for more information.  While you are there, follow our link to inquire about availability and pricing or contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful community. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows represents the best in Colorado Springs senior living with a distinct mission statement - “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to visit the finest assisted living and memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Stay Active at Any Age – Volunteer, Join a Club & Get Involved!

Scientific studies and anecdotal evidence suggests that engaged individuals are typically healthier and express more satisfaction with life.  In fact the NIA cites research linking social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for various physical and mental conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's disease, and even death.

The journal, PLOS ((Public Library of Science) Medicine, reports that in almost 150 studies focusing on social relationships and mortality, they found loneliness may be just as bad as smoking and worse than obesity.  The studies also showed those with more developed social relationships had a “50 percent increased likelihood of survival than those whose relationships were weaker.”  Thus it appears an active social life isn’t just good fun but is good for us!

It also turns out volunteering is a great way to increase social connections, and benefits you and your family as much as it does the cause you help.  It connects you to the community in a more meaningful way and helps to improve the quality of life for those you touch.  As a volunteer, you will meet and make friends with people otherwise unknown to you, expand your network, and boost your social skills.  Also volunteering can help combat feelings of depression, increase self-confidence and give you a sense of purpose. 

Other interesting and fun ways to stay active is to join a club.  It can be something you are already passionate about or interested in learning more, and offers the opportunity to meet like-minded people. 

One example is a walking club, which can help keep you motivated and introduce you to people with similar goals.  It does not require fancy equipment or a gym, and offers the benefit of being good for your heart.  If there is not a club around you, start one by inviting family, friends and neighbors.   If you are an avid gardener, join a gardening club or volunteer at a community garden project.  If you love to play chess, join a chess club, or become more active in your church or local school, and so forth.  

Have an interested in local politics or would you like to do more to support your library or other community events?  Go to your town’s website and take a look at their calendar of upcoming meetings and events.  Moreover if there is something you want to see get done in your own neighborhood or city, start a group and undertake the service project together.

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 and the surrounding area has to offer.

Gift Guide for Those with Dementia

We all like to bring our elderly parents or loved ones a gift to show them just how much we care about them. It is often hard to know what to give to a senior, and especially difficult if a loved one is suffering from dementia.  Experts suggest you help them find ways to reminisce about their lives and accomplishments, and give them things that will bring a smile to their face and some joy into their life.    

Many ideas for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia include personalized gifts.  One such gift is a talking photo book that allows you to record your own person commentary to go along with each photograph.  This can be a fun book to sit and enjoy with your family member as it helps to trigger memories and conversation.  Many companies offer such books, and prices typically vary with the number of photos and recording time available. 

Buying an interactive book (the Alzheimer’s Association’s store has many) featuring vivid photographs and large print on a subject your mom or dad love such as animals or flowers can also promote conversation and provide a way to spend relaxing time together.  To ease stress or agitation, you may want to look into getting them a fiddle muff.  A fiddle muff can provide comfort and warmth as well as activity to promote increased hand flexibility and brain stimulation.

Another meaningful gift is a cozy, customized blanket filled with photos of the grandkids or a beloved family pet.  On the Internet you can find companies that will do a collage of family photos or a singular one in a variety of materials.  Many of the blankets have surprisingly sharp images and can be machined washed and dried. 

If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help.  Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky. 

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we specialize in providing seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Along with exceptional assisted living, we provide the best memory care Colorado Springs offers.  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.

Sources: unforgettable.org/shining-star-cube-with-soothing-sounds

store.best-alzheimers-products.com/alzheimers-dementia-gift-ideas/alzheimers-gift-guide.html

Possible Financial Solutions to Make Care More Affordable

While MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is proud to offer high-quality assisted living and memory care for seniors, we also provide information on possible financial solutions to make care more affordable.  One example is our Companion Living option that is designed for two unrelated people of the same sex to share an assisted living or memory care suite.  

This is an ideal solution for those wishing to share expenses as the rent of the suite is split between the two residents as well as a way to build a lasting friendship.  Even if you do not have someone in mind to share a suite, we will help you find a roommate and go to great lengths to match you with an individual who has common interests and similar background.  

A roommate can also help to ease your transition to senior living.  You and your roommate can look out for one another, and as you are familiar with each another’s habits and personalities, may be the first person to notice changes in health and abilities.  Shared lives can help to boost health through improved sleeping patterns and an increased appetite. When you take advantage of companion living, you are still offered all of the personalized care and first-class amenities extended to our other residents.    

We also feel privileged to have veterans as part of our community and when we hear of vets who are interested in our community, we are pleased to direct them to the local resources that can expertly handle their application process for “Aid & Attendance.”  This is monthly benefit payments extended through the V.A. to certain wartime Veterans (and their survivors) with financial need and physician orders for regular assistance with the activities of daily living.

Please visit our website to learn more about these and other options which may make senior care more affordable.  Offering both assisted living and memory care, MorningStar of Wheatridge is committed to provide residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. 

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a tour to discover the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Littleton

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living in the Littleton, CO area, MorningStar of Littleton may be your answer.  Our community has 65 private assisted living suites, and another 20 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases.  

If you are wondering how costs are determined, we can provide you with a general guideline.  Assisted living offers seniors 62 years and older compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting and each resident’s care is personalized to address their needs.  Even before you move in, MorningStar’s Wellness Director will sit down with you and your family and do a thorough assessment in order to create an individualized care plan.  Once you have moved in, your trained Care Managers will see to it your needs are met, and as we do routine Care Plan reviews, any changes to your health will be addressed.  

You monthly fee is based on a couple of things including your choice of apartment (we offer spacious studios and one-and two bedrooms suites) and its location within the building and views.  In addition, we offer five levels of care for assisted living, and your level will be determined by your care plan.  MorningStar also offers a range of auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, which are priced a la carte.     

MorningStar of Littleton is designed to meet residents’ every need and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Amenities include a bistro, general store, fitness room, library, salon and much more. Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day. Our equally enjoyable outdoor areas include a fireside patio, resident garden beds and strolling paths.   Please visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Littleton represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care community in the area.

Information for Seniors and Their Families on Our Website

While MorningStar’s first priority is to our residents, we also recognize that helping our families accept the transition to senior living is important.  This is why we have a website filled with useful information and resources regarding all aspects of our senior living communities. 

We encourage everyone to read the history of MorningStar and about our Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger’s mission to start a senior housing company defined by the human touch.  He explains that he “wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Guided by our Radiance program, you will also learn how we deliver service - with warmth, sincerity and depth.

Furthermore, we understand that senior living and senior care decisions are often precipitated by major changes, which is why we provide a guide that details various retirement options.  One recommendation we offer is to clearly identify what you are trying to solve, and to think about not just next year, but rather the next 5 to 10 years.  We encourage you to read our points to consider for help in determining if assisted living is the best solution for you, your parent or spouse. In addition, you will find some of the troubling signs that could signal the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, however please keep in mind that only a neurologist can make a diagnosis.      

Once you have reached the decision and start looking at senior living communities, we advise you to set up a tour.  Typically, the healthier spouse or child of the senior does the initial tours to rule out unsuitable options and narrow down the search.  We recommend not trying to do more than two tours a day as you will get a lot of information to take in and process. Please contact MorningStar of Wheat Ridge if we can be of any help or if you would like to set up a tour of our wonderful assisted living and memory care community.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a tour to discover the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge.

Memory Care Dining is About Nutrition and Community

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that many people suffering from Alzheimer’s may be “overwhelmed with too many food choices, forget to eat or have difficulty with eating utensils.”   This can be a problem as we know healthy eating is especially important for those with dementia and that poor nutrition can result in weight loss and increase behavioral symptoms.  

This is why in addition to the many aspects of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s memory care; we take our residents’ nutritional concerns very seriously.  One of the things we do to encourage our tender memory care residents to eat is to make dining as much about Community as it is about nutrition.  At mealtime, team members sit with residents to help make meal time an enjoyable, shared experience.  We also regularly serve meals family-style on platters and serving bowls to prompt residents to connect with memories of meals they have eaten or prepared during their lives.  Family members are invited to join us at any time.     

As our Reflections Neighborhood’s team is extremely experienced in caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we know it is important to serve foods that taste as good as they look.  Furthermore, we understand some residents’ abilities at the table may be compromised, which is why we also serve finger foods; mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids; and easy-to-recognize balanced meals.  If the best option for your loved one is to eat pureed meat and vegetables, we offer elegant dishes that are both beautifully plated and purely delicious.      

Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.  

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

Source:foodservicedirector.com/ideas-innovation/health-wellness/articles/4-ways-memory-care-dining-has-gone-beyond-finger-foods#page=3

Does Your Parent Need Help with the Activities of Daily Living?

We know that seniors value their independence and that many are reluctant to let families and friends know they may need more help.  Often older adults fear they may become a burden or worry their family. However, experts advise that even if your parent is not expressing a need for more help, there are signs to look for that indicate they need it.  

Michael Perskin, a geriatrician at NYU Langone Health explains that, “Sometimes you’re shocked when you visit.”  He adds it is troubling if “you walk into a parent’s house and the bathrooms are dirty or there’s no food in the refrigerator.”   Other signs include weight loss and a general decline in their appearance. Often older adults in need of more care can no longer safely bath themselves and their health problems can make dressing difficult.   

Driving can also become a problem for seniors and evidence of scrapes and dents on their car may indicate they should not be driving anymore.  For other seniors, failing eyesight can make driving at night or in rainy or snowy weather difficult and can result in missed doctor appointments or not being able to buy groceries and run errands.   

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our expertise is to fill in the gaps and provide the level of care you or your loved needs.  We offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community that includes three daily nutritional meals, the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs, and to enjoy ready-made companionship.  

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents, we have 24/7 care managers, a full-time nurse, suites equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  We encourage you to visit our website and use our online form to set up a tour of our gorgeous, loving assisted living and memory care community.  

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

Source:health.usnews.com/senior-care/caregiving/articles/2018-02-09/what-are-the-signs-your-aging-parents-need-help

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Specialized Memory Care

Committed to be the best senior living Des Moines or West Des Moines offers, we feel it is our calling, and our privilege, to provide loving, compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  With 29 memory care suites, we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Also, our Reflections Neighborhood is a secure environment, designed to allow residents the independence to move freely and safely about in their expansive surroundings. 

In fact, every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar community, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities and scheduled outings and events.

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program is another reflection of our Radiance culture and provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security and holistic solutions to challenging behaviors. 

Along with memory care, MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers exceptional assisted living.   Please visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents. 

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 or West Des Moines offers.

After Your Parent’s Move to an Assisted Living Community

We know people react differently to the many challenges we face in our lifetime, so it is no surprise that some individuals have a more difficult time adapting to assisted living. Experts surmise that one of the reasons may be is that some seniors end up feeling that the decision was thrust on them, and a decline in their health left them with few choices. 

It is important for families to keep in mind that the first few months will probably be the most difficult adjustment period for their loved one.  In fact, once the initial transition is over, studies show that many older adults actually prefer the lifestyle community living offers. 

To assist your loved one with the transition, experts recommend a few things family members can do to help the process along.  They explain that it is especially important during the first few weeks to visit frequently, but also caution against being too protective.  Spending too much time with your loved one during their adjustment period can be counterproductive and may prevent them from adapting on their own. 

Another thing that will help is to encourage your parent to participate in the community’s activities.  The more involved they get in the community, the more likely they are to make new friends and start to feel at home.  

Also take the time to help them personalize their suite by adding treasured mementos and framed family photos as well as wall art they loved from their last home.  Add in furnishings like a comfy chair and a cozy throw in a color they love.  Furthermore, if space is at a premium, consider mounting the TV on a wall.  When helping to decorate, do not forget safety.  Make sure cords are safely tucked away and not in endanger of becoming trip hazards and that pathways are uncluttered and free of objects that could cause a fall. 

Visit MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ website to learn more about one of the area’s finest assisted living facilities.  Our beautiful Colorado Springs community offers assisted living and memory care.  

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:  assistedliving.com/helping-elderly-aging-parents-adjust-senior-living-01112013/

Our Assisted Living Suites are Available in a Range of Stylish Floorplans

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Littleton was designed to create a true home for our residents and provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  From the moment you walk through the door, you are sure to be impressed by our beautiful architecture and inviting common areas including strolling paths, all-season porches and patios. 

Along with our compassionate care services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities, residents have a choice of smart floorplans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs.  Within our 65 assisted living suites, we offer floorplans that include studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations with some as large as 730 sq. ft.  You will find all of our suites have lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items.  

Each suite is equipped with a kitchenette, a handicap-accessible bathroom, a 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system.  Your monthly fee includes cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services. We do trash removal and spot cleaning daily. Moreover if you are wondering, we are pet friendly!  

Please visit our website to view stunning photos and for more information about our loving assisted living community.   In addition to assisted living, we have 20 secure suites devoted to the care of those suffering with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advance stages.  
MorningStar of Littleton offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Poor Health May Increase Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia need to maintain their overall health as studies have found that poor health is associated with greater symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  This is why experts stress the importance of being under the care of a qualified doctor and following good health habits such as exercise, eating nutrient-rich meals, and properly caring for any chronic or new health problems.  

Doctors also advise the individual should have routine hearing and vision exams and any problems be treated appropriately.  Along with being seen by their primary care provider, the person should see specialists as needed. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation explains that co-existing medical conditions may negatively impact Alzheimer’s behaviors. They state one example where “frequent urinary tract infections may increase wandering, and depression disrupts sleep and deepens social withdrawal.”   

While it is important for all seniors to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, it is especially so for people with dementia as they may experience problems with eating.  Nerve damage associated with the disease may result in extreme eating disorders such as overeating or not eating at all.  The person may also have trouble smelling and tasting or chewing food and digesting it, so what they do eat needs to be healthy.  In later stages of the disease, the person may also have difficulty using a knife or fork.  

At MorningStar of Littleton, we understand the disease and the different stages it takes.  Our team of memory care specialists creates an individualized care plan for each resident based on their needs, personality and preferences.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 20 secure suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations including spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments.  Please contact us for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour to experience our compassionate, loving assisted living and memory care community.   

MorningStar of Littleton represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care community in the area.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge was Designed for Your Utmost Comfort

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Wheat Ridge was designed from the ground up to meet the needs of the most discerning senior. We have lots of warm, inviting common areas both inside and out and the amenities and services to ensure residents feel right at home.   We are conveniently located in the heart of Wheat Ridge, a northern suburb of Denver near banks, shopping, medical facilities and restaurants.

If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef.  All of our delicious meals are served in our charming dining room, restaurant-style, and created largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds. We even offer a private dining room for intimate dinners.     

Also, our Bistro offers a relaxing place for residents as well as their guests to gather and enjoy a beverage or a light snack.  Other beautifully-appointed, comfy gathering places include our library and living room with a computer. Our fireside patio and porches give residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.  

Other onsite amenities include our own chapel/theatre, a fitness room, a convenient salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures, and much more.  In addition, a monthly calendar filled with meaningful wellness programs and activities will allow you to stay as busy as you like.  

While our array of amenities and services are vast, we haven’t even mentioned our devoted and loving team who are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

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

For Many, Assisted Living Offers a Happier, Healthier Lifestyle

Many seniors are pleasantly surprised to discover that moving to an assisted living community is not the worst thing to happen to them.  In fact, statistics show that for many seniors it is a healthier, more agreeable alternative to living alone.  The reason some seniors are initially reluctant to make the move is that they are unaware of the significant changes that have occurred in senior living over the last several years especially in terms of care options and amenities. 

Today’s communities like MorningStar at Jordan Creek offer assisted living and memory care that is geared toward meeting aging adult’s physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  Also, for many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For seniors living alone, assisted living provides the opportunity for socializing whether it is with planned activities or in common areas designed to encourage relaxed interactions.  Even if you are someone who values your privacy, community living offers the benefit of private suites with the comfort of having others around.   

Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive. 

At MorningStar we also provide scheduled transportation and planned outings to a variety of places such as shopping, cultural events and local restaurants.  Furthermore, for many seniors cooking and preparing meals is difficult and we solve that problem by providing tasty, nutritional daily meals.  Please see our website or contact us for more information to discover what sets MorningStar at Jordan Creek apart from other assisted living Des Moines-West Des Moines offers.

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.

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

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ Reflections Neighborhood

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our mission is to provide the best memory care Colorado Springs has to offer. Our approach includes using some of the most respected research-based care programs to give residents the best life possible.  Furthermore, our unique Reflections Neighborhood was designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings safely and easily.  

When a family comes to MorningStar at Mountain Shadows looking for care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, our experienced team is ready to help.  Even before we welcome a new resident to our loving community, we take the time to sit down with them and their family to learn as much as we can about the person including their medical history, background, talents, and personal preferences.  We then use this information to create an individualized care plan that is used to stimulate or calm a resident in response to a particular mood or situation.

Also, we use a reimagined philosophy and approach to memory care we call “Lavender Sky, which we consider to be the next logical step to what MorningStar has always believed and aspired to be as dementia care specialists.  The comprehensive program allows us to introduce a more insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  Moreover, as it guides every aspect of our dementia care, all team members are asked to attend eight-hours of interactive Lavender Sky training to help give them a better understanding of the disease. 

Along with 19 secure suites in the Reflections Neighborhood for memory care, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows has 45 private assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Contact us to learn more 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 offers.

It’s Never Too Late to Improve Your Health

It is more important than ever to take care of your health as Americans are living longer and we all want to ensure a healthier old age.  However even if you are already a senior, health care professionals say it is never too late to start improving your health. 

Sian Robinson, a professor of nutritional epidemiology at the University of Southampton, authored a study on senior nutrition and states that, "Improving the quality of your diet can have a beneficial effect on health, whatever your age."  One recommendation is to eat more foods containing fiber.  Doctors report the addition of more fiber can positively impact your overall health by helping:  your colon work better and avoid constipation; reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer; and lower your blood cholesterol level.

Another change that can improve your overall health as well as help to make you feel better and increase your level of energy is to add physical activity to your daily life.  This also can strengthen your bones and muscles, which in turn can help to prevent falls.  If you do fall, stronger bones are less likely to break.  Physical active has additionally been found to help your brain as studies show people who exercise regularly make better decisions. 

It is also beneficial for seniors to keep their minds active. Like our muscles, our brains need to be exercised regularly to improve memory loss and cognitive skills.  Activities such as targeted brain exercises and playing word and trivia games can help.  Other habits that can enhance your health include not smoking, having regular checkups and learning how to prevent falls. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.  Along with beautiful private suites, we also offer residents resort-style amenities and services as well as a range of activities, wellness programs and nutritional, tasty meals.  Visit our website to learn more. 

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 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 or West Des Moines offers.

Source: familydoctor.org/family-health/seniors/

Late-Life Depression

Depression can affect people at any age including senior citizens.  According to Web MD, “Late-life depression affects about 6 million Americans age 65 and older, but only 10% receive treatment for depression.”  They suggest the reason for this may be that the symptoms seniors display are often ignored or assumed to be a result of illnesses and medications or just a normal part of growing older.

There are many reasons why seniors suffer from depression including major changes in their lives such as retirement, the death of a spouse, illnesses, disabilities and social isolation.  People suffering from very painful, disabling, or life-threatening illnesses are especially vulnerable to depression or the worsening of symptoms.  Furthermore, depression can be caused by medications that are commonly prescribed to the elderly including blood pressure medication, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, calcium-channel blockers and medication for Parkinson’s as well as others.

Suffering from depression prevents seniors from enjoying life as they used to and can be the cause of a change in appetite, problems sleeping and impact physical health.  HelpGuide.org says, while sadness is one sign of depression, some seniors do not recognize or admit to feelings of sadness.  Rather someone may “complain instead of low motivation, a lack of energy, or physical problems.  In fact, physical complaints, such as arthritis pain or worsening headaches, are often the predominant symptom of depression in the elderly.”

All too often seniors just accept depression as a part of the aging process but there are steps you can take to help yourself or your loved one.  You first need to talk to your health care provider to rule out other problems, and then perhaps you need to make changes in your lifestyle.  Experts suggest that isolation and inactivity can make depression worse and they recommend getting involved in physical, mental and social activities.

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

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows represents the best in assisted living facilities with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Sources:webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-elderly

helpguide.org/articles/depression/depression-in-older-adults-and-the-elderly.htm

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Affects the Entire Family

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is devastating for everyone in the family and an uncomfortable, difficult topic for people to talk about.  In some cases, even physicians do not discuss the disease with their patients, and sometimes a person is unaware of the diagnosis.  Others may try to hide their memory problems, and as a result, end up with little time to put their affairs in order and plan for the future. 

However, experts say it is important to discuss the diagnosis and its ramifications with your family in order to make your wishes known regarding your care.  One of the things you will want to do is to designate a family member to make decisions on your behalf once you are unable to do so.  With the help of your family, you will also need to make financial decisions such as setting aside assets to pay for long-term care in an assisted living community or for home care.  Keep in mind that planning ahead also gives your family peace of mind as they will know they are following your wishes.

Another one of the recommendations from experts who work with Alzheimer’s patients is to have the person tell their life story.  This can be in a journal form or recorded and provides a meaningful way for the family to bond together.  Furthermore, it helps to make the person feel that they are a valued member of the family.  

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our goal is to provide the best senior living Des Moines or West Des Moines has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We treat each of our special residents with dignity and respect and find ways to connect with and nurture their very essence.  Our memory care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages.  Please visit our website 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 or West Des Moines offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2017-06-26/5-steps-to-ending-the-stigma-surrounding-dementia

Senior Communities Offer a Carefree Lifestyle

Did you know that studies show many older adults prefer the carefree life offered by senior living?  The idea of no longer having all of the responsibilities that come along with owning a home including the repairs and upkeep is very appealing to many seniors.  Furthermore, for seniors who still think moving into an assisted living community is a place people go to die, most likely have not visited one of today’s vibrant communities. 

There are even studies that suggest moving into senior living may be a healthier option for some than living alone.  This can especially be true for seniors after the death of a spouse as many begin to feel isolated and lonely.  Not to mention the burden of keeping up with household chores such as cleaning, cooking, laundry or needing to move up and down stairs.  

Senior living communities offer an individual the opportunity to easily make new friends as well as gives them the time to pursue special interests or to explore new hobbies.  Also, communities typically provide amenities such as onsite fitness centers in addition to offering a range of exercise classes geared toward the fitness level of older adults. 

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows may be your answer.  After visiting our website or once you take a tour of our community, you most certainly will understand why MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is the type of assisted living and memory care you want for youself or your loved one.  Along with a whole array of amenities and services and a compassionate, loving team that is honored to serve seniors, we also offer well-designed suites to please a variety of tastes and preferences. 

In addition, we want you know that our community is staffed by a compassionate, professional team of individuals who are experienced in all facets of senior living and committed to providing our residents a true “home.”  Visit our website for contact information and to find out more about our beautiful 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.

Assisted Living May be the Answer

For family members, assisted living and memory care can offer peace of mind knowing that your parent or loved one is receiving the care and companionship they need to live safely and as independently as possible.  However, we recognize that for some adult children or spouses, considering assisted living brings up feelings of guilt as you think you are not doing enough for them. 

As an adult child, you may realize that you have too many responsibilities already on your plate including your own children, a job and other constraints but still feel guilty about not offering your parent a home with you.  Even if you are a caregiver that has reached the point where you know the job is taking a toll on your own well-being and you are no longer able to provide the level of care your loved needs, you may still be hesitant to make changes. 

This is why assisted living and memory care communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek offer the perfect solution.  Our purpose is not to replace you in the life of your aging parent or spouse but rather to assist you in your efforts to make their lives easier, safer and more comfortable. 

Our community was designed and built to accommodate the needs of seniors.  Every aspect of our interior common rooms and suites as well as the outdoor grounds is intended to make our residents feel like they are in a true “home.”  From beautiful, private suites that are just waiting for your personal furnishings, delicious meals served restaurant-style, activities galore or companionship; we provide a lovely home.  Please contact us with any questions you may have or set up a visit to see firsthand the best assisted living Des Moines or West Des Moines offers. 

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 and the surrounding area has to offer.