Despite COVID-19, Get the Medical Attention You Need

June 10, 2020 by Quinn A

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

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

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

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is proud to offer exceptional senior living in the heart of Wheat Ridge, a northern suburb of Denver. While temporarily closed to non-essential visitors due to COVID-19, we are still safely accepting new residents. We offer 45 well-appointed suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood also provides 19 secure suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for a virtual tour of our beautiful community and use our email link to inquire about availability and pricing.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge proudly provides the 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 and memory care in the area.

Staying Connected with a Loved One in a Senior Community

June 10, 2020 by Quinn A

If you have an elderly loved one who is living in a senior community that has halted visits due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the AARP offers several things you can do to help them stay socially connected and avoid feeling isolated. Remember one of the most important things we can do is to let them know they are loved and missed.

The easiest way you can do this is through frequent phone calls, but also don’t forget other ways of communicating such as sending a letter or greeting card through the snail mail reminding them you are thinking of them. Include the kids by having them draw a picture for grandma or grandpa or if they are old enough, have them also write a letter.

It definitely makes it more personal to stay in touch if your parent has a computer or a smart device that lets you FaceTime or Skype on a regular basis and the AAPR has some ideas of how to use video-calling to keep it fun. One suggestion if your kids are young is to arrange to have grandma or grandpa read books to them over a video-call (if they do not have suitable books, go online and send them some). Or if your child is learning to read, have them read to their grandparents.

Another thing you can do is schedule a meal to be delivered to them from a local carry out place or from a service such as Grubhub, and settle down and enjoy sharing a meal with them while video chatting. In addition, conversation starters can include watching the same movie or documentary and then spend time talking about it, or setting up a game or chessboard and playing the game together over the phone.

For the area’s finest memory care and assisted living, Littleton CO area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Littleton. We are still accepting residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. Please see our website for more information about our community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus response.

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

Source:

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/boost-morale-during-coronavirus.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R4-POS2-REALPOSS-TODAY

Provide Companionship and Comfort with an Easy to Care for Pet

June 10, 2020 by Quinn A

Have you been searching for something for your elderly mom or dad that would provide some comfort and help ease their feelings of loneliness and isolation? While you may think now is not the best time for them to assume the responsibilities of a new pet, you may want to take a look at one of the many “robotic pets” in the marketplace.

We know there has been a lot of research that supports the idea pet ownership is beneficial to seniors and a loving pet is a great companion. Now researchers have also discovered that robotic pets may provide the elderly with many of the same benefits live animals do. A 2017 study found that the interaction between older adults and animals, whether real or robotic, helped lower blood pressure, eased anxiety, reduced feeling of loneliness and improved the overall quality of life.

The advantage of a low-maintenance robot dog or cat is they are easy for seniors with little to no tech savvy to “care for.” The realistic pets do little tricks such as a robotic dog who wags it tail, raises its eyebrow when you pet it, has a heartbeat, and makes a barking noise. For people with dementia, robotic pets have helped ease agitation and anxiety and seem to have a calming influence.

In fact New York’s Department for the Aging (DFTA) was so impressed with the pets that they implemented a program to distribute mechanical dogs and cats to a number of seniors with the aim of easing loneliness. The DFTA’s Commissioner, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez explains, “For the older person, social isolation really has a devastating effect on their health.”

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our loving community. Along with 56 assisted living suites, MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers 29 secure suites dedicated to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We are now accepting new residents and are confident in our COVID-19 protocols for keeping all those beneath our roof safe.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines offers.

Trusted Assisted Living & Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado

June 08, 2020 by Quinn A

The MorningStar story began with a vision from our Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger, who wanted to re-create senior housing that was defined by the human touch and felt much like his grandmother’s house – “a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” Out of this loving concept that focuses on the power of relationships, came three mission statements upon which MorningStar was founded: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.

Following these precepts, MorningStar of Littleton is committed to providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort and wellness with a care team that feels honored to serve seniors. Our beautiful community offers a choice of 65 well-appointed, private assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 20 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.

While the country slowly gets back to normal and begins to reopen, we want you to know that MorningStar of Littleton will still be closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American Senior Housing Association and Federal government. This includes prohibiting non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our community. Also all team members who interact with residents must follow strict protocols regarding hygiene and protection, and we will continue the daily screening of staff for symptoms and prevent those who are ill from coming to work.

Currently we are safely accepting new residents; however it is being done in conjunction with a thorough screening process. New residents move directly into their private suite, where they will remain for a 14-day quarantine period; and staff entering the room will wear full personal protective equipment.

Remember our first commitment is to the safety of all those in our care. Listen to what one resident’s daughter writes about her experience, “Although it is difficult not being able to visit our loved ones, I am so grateful for the proactive stand you are taking. Our parents could not be in a better place.”

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Littleton offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Learn More About Father’s Day

June 05, 2020 by Quinn A

Father’s Day was first officially celebrated in the United State on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. It then took another 58 years (in 1972) after President Woodrow Wilson had declared Mother’s Day to be an official holiday for dads to get their own official national holiday. This year Father’s Day is June 21, as the holiday is celebrated on the third Sunday of the month.

The earliest public event honoring fathers was in 1908 at a West Virginia church. It was held in memory of 362 area men who had been killed in a tragic coal mine accident the year before. It was a one-time commemoration and not intended to be an annual holiday.

The first recognized celebration of all fathers took place at the Spokane, WA YMCA on June 19, 1910. It was organized by Sonora Smart Dodd. Her father, William Jackson Smart was a single parent who raised six children. Ms. Dodd had heard a sermon about the Mother’s Day celebration at Central Methodist Episcopal Church a year earlier and encouraged her church to have a similar event honoring fathers. She had wanted it to be on her father’s birthday, June 5th, but her church’s pastors needed more time to prepare sermons so it was held on the third Sunday of the month.

Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts and certainly deserve to have their “own day;” however getting fathers nationally recognized was not as easy as it had been to get a designated national holiday for mothers. Throughout the years there were efforts to make it a national holiday but it never moved forward. It wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson issued a presidential proclamation honoring fathers, and designated the third Sunday as Father’s Day. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed the holiday into law.

For the finest senior living, Des Moines area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek. We offer outstanding assisted living and memory care for the area’s beloved “mothers” and “fathers.” Our outstanding community, opened in March 2018, was designed to meet residents every need. From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing.

Now May be the Time to Consider Assisted Living for Your Parents

June 01, 2020 by Quinn A

Now may be the time to consider moving your parents into assisted living as a way to ensure they get the daily support they need in a safe, comfortable environment. Assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek provide all of the comforts and care residents need to thrive!

Assisted living also provides peace of mind if your mom or dad has poor balance or failing eyesight, which can increase the likelihood of a fall, and not having help close at hand can be dangerous. In addition, if a parent no longer drives, it may be difficult for them to get groceries and other necessary supplies including prescription medications or to see a doctor.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s mission is to provide the best assisted living Des Moines - West Des Moines has to offer. Our beautiful community provides assisted living residents help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to help maintain their independence. Residents and their families take comfort knowing our trained care managers are there to help them navigate through any changes in their health condition. And if you wondered, couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or a suite can be shared by friends who enjoy one another’s company.

Another thing you will no longer have to worry about is whether mom or dad is getting enough good, healthy food to eat. MorningStar’s daily meals feature the freshest ingredients and are prepared using the highest quality produce, often homegrown and locally sourced as we know there is nothing like fresh foods to stimulate the senses and the appetite.

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during this time of the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for more information.

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 memory care and assisted living Des Moines – West Des Moines offers.

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Sun Protection is Still Important for Seniors

May 31, 2020 by Quinn A

If you are an older adult, you may feel like you are past the point of worrying about a few new wrinkles and think you no longer need to protect your skin with sunscreen. The medical profession wants you to know that nothing could be further from the truth as seniors are actually more sensitive to sunlight and of getting sunburnt in a shorter period of time than when they were younger. This is due to a couple of reasons including as we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses it protective fat, and medications commonly taken by seniors including antibiotics, NSAIDs, oral diabetes drugs, and diuretics may increase photosensitivity.

Doctors recommend that seniors avoid exposure to the sun during peak times (from 10 am to 4 pm) and to remember that the sun’s UV rays are still potent even on cloudy days. Also be sure to wear sunscreen choosing a cream or lotion that is broad spectrum (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) of SPF 30 every day. If you plan to be at the beach or to play golf, wear SPF of 50 or higher. Be sure to reapply every 1½ to two hours.

You also need to wear a hat and protective clothing. The brim of your hat should be at least 3” and cover your neck and ears, and long-sleeved shirts and long pants or long skirts that are loose and light-weight. Don’t forget to wear good sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of the sun’s rays. Finally, remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our senior living community provides all the amenities, wellness programs, activities, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing. Our beautiful community offers 45 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations, including studio and one and two-bedroom floor plans, to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs. We provide another 19 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19).

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

MorningStar at Jordan Creek Offers Compassionate, Loving Memory Care

May 27, 2020 by Quinn A

Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating for the person and their family. All of one’s carefully laid plans are cast aside as their future takes a much different path. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our mission is to provide the best senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines offers, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S, where we have worked hard to become dementia care specialists. Unlike other memory care communities, MorningStar’s extensive experience has allowed us to gain a deep understanding of the disease, and we consider it our privilege to serve those with memory loss. We recognize that the person’s essence remains and are committed to finding ways to connect with and nurture that essence.

We also consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey. Our unique approach to memory care is called Lavender Sky, which is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of memory loss.

Every aspect of our memory care is designed to address the needs of our residents including 24/7 compassionate Care Mangers, wellness programs and activities that will stimulate and calm as needed. Even our meals are designed with our most tender residents’ needs in mind and are as good to look at as they are to eat.

Along with memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood, MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers 56 assisted living suites in a range of floorplans for those needing help with the activities of daily living. Please see our website for more information about our exceptional community. While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

Learn More About Dementia

May 26, 2020 by Quinn A

Dementia may still be one of the most misunderstood medical conditions of today. From believing dementia is an inevitable part of aging to thinking any sign of forgetfulness is evidence of dementia, many people hold inaccurate views regarding the term. The Alzheimer’s Association defines dementia as not being a specific disease. Rather they say, “It's an overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities.”

Also, it can complicate the matter as the term dementia covers a range of conditions with the most common one being Alzheimer’s disease. Other forms of dementia include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and other disorders.

To determine if you or a loved one’s memory loss is a symptom of dementia, you need to be evaluated by a health care professional. Simply being forgetful is not enough for a doctor to make the diagnosis of dementia but rather he or she will run a series of tests to determine if there is other evidence of cognition problems. Other signs of dementia involve a person having difficulty completing sentences or finding the right word to say, difficulty completing tasks, and difficulty recognizing items or people.

In some cases, the person may exhibit signs of poor judgement and have trouble performing common household chores, paying bills, or preparing food. They may have problems with organizing thoughts, and repeatedly ask the same questions or relate the same stories. A person with dementia can lose their way even in a familiar environment as well as become more agitated and irritable.

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we specialize in providing seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Along with exceptional memory care, we provide the finest assisted living Des Moines-West Des Moines offers. Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against COVID-19.

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Steps to Take to Help Prevent Falls

May 25, 2020 by Quinn A

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 at Mountain Shadows, 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.

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

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

MorningStar at Mountain Shadow’s Memory Care

May 21, 2020 by Quinn A

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we not only provide some of the best assisted living Colorado Springs offers, but also experienced memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 secure memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.” By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.

All of our employees receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents. The eight hours of training includes the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they crossover the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.

Please visit our website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate memory care. At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we do not consider serving our memory care residents to be depressing but rather offer hope to families as we strive to find ways to elevate and celebrate each resident’s life. We look forward to meeting you.

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

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Offers Expansive Care Services

May 16, 2020 by Quinn A

If you are looking for the best memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs offers, we encourage you consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. We provide area seniors with resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of care services to ensure their utmost comfort and wellbeing.

At MorningStar we define health and well-being holistically and as such, offer programming that supports the whole person – body, mind and spirit, and are thus the perfect destination for successful aging. Reflective of the full authority of our licensing with the Department of Health, our resident care services are broad and help extend the stay of residents even as their health conditions change. In fact we will routinely look for creative solutions (within our licensing mandate) that yield a higher quality of care for residents at a lower cost to their families.

To improve care services, we proudly use the MorningStar Electronic Health Record (EHR) system at our Mountain Shadows community. It provides us with a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). The system benefits both our team and residents with quick access to accurate, legible, and complete demographic and medical information on residents. It offers different modules to monitor various vitals and key health metrics as well as provides enhanced privacy and security of residents’ data.

Our services include: 24-hour care managers, medication management by certified med care managers, licensed nurse—on call 24/7, care planning reviews and scheduled health & wellness evaluations. We also offer mechanical lift assistance, weights and vitals monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services, and much more. Please see our website for more information about our community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus (COVID-19) response.

If You Are a Senior, You May Be a Target of Con Artists

May 15, 2020 by Quinn A

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

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

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

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

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

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, “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 true home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

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

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

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May is “National Stroke Awareness Month”

May 15, 2020 by Quinn A

The National Stroke Awareness Month began in May, 1989 after President George H. W. Bush signed a Presidential Proclamation aimed at promoting public awareness of the signs and symptoms of strokes and reducing the number of incidences in the U.S. The National Institute of Health (NIH) partners with the National Stroke Association, the American Heart Association and other non-profits to education Americans not only on warning signs but how to control risk factors to improve brain health.

The NIH warns that “stroke is a leading cause of death & can happen to anyone.” With over 800,000 incidences each year, it is also the leading cause of serious long-term disabilities. The majority of stokes occur in people over 65 and the risk more than doubles each decade after the age of 55.

The American Heart Association advises all American to know F.A.S.T., the warning signs of stroke as it may save a life. They include:

Face Drooping

Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven or lopsided?

Arm Weakness

Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech

Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.

Time to Call 9-1-1

If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately.

Other warning signs include:

· Sudden NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

· Sudden CONFUSION, trouble speaking or understanding speech

· Sudden TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes

· Sudden TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

· Sudden SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause

The more we know about strokes, the better we are at controlling the associated risk factors. As the leading cause of stroke is high blood pressure or hypertension, the American Stroke Association says it is also the “most significant controllable risk factor.” They recommend knowing your numbers and following doctors’ advice to keep them low. Quitting smoking also reduces your risk, and as Type 1 or 2 diabetes is another risk factor, you need to mitigate the danger by managing the disease. Eating a diet of five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day, reducing your sodium intake, and avoiding foods high in saturated fat additionally helps to keep your heart healthy and reduces the risk for stroke.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Visit our website to set up a tour of the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines offers.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month

May 14, 2020 by Quinn A

The CDC, the Arthritis Foundation and other partners have all come together to observe Arthritis Awarness during the month of May. The CDC reports that the widespread disease affects about one in four adults in the U.S., and currently 54 million men and women as well as an estimated 300,000 children have the disease.

Research has found that while there is a genetic predisposition to arthritis, it can also be a result of environmental factors including toxins and viruses or damage due to excessive repetitive motions. Signs you may be developing arthritis include joint pain and swelling, stiffness or deformity of joints, lumps and bumps around joints, joint tenderness, and warm or red joints. While there is no cure for arthritis, doctors recommend regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and diet, and using hot and/or cold packs. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can also help, but before taking any medication, please consult with your health care provider.

The CDC says walking can be the best form of exercise for someone suffering from arthritis. They explain that, “All adults, including adults with arthritis, should get 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking) per week and do muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week.” If you are unable to walk any distance at one given time, they recommend taking three small 10 minute walks spread out throughout the day. The CDC reminds everyone there is no better time to begin a walking program or recommit yourself to a walking routine than during Arthritis Awareness Month.

MorningStar of Littleton’s goal is to provide the best assisted living Littleton, Colorado has to offer, and we take the wellbeing of our residents seriously. Our monthly calendar includes programs and activities that encourage residents to get engaged not only physically, but also intellectually, spiritually and socially. Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional community. While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members during this difficult time.

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

Source: cdc.gov/features/arthritisawareness/index.html

Are You Looking for Care for a Loved One with Dementia?

May 13, 2020 by Quinn A

If a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia and you are looking for the best care, a memory care community may be your answer. While typically more expensive than other senior living options, they are equipped to provide the most comprehensive care.

Memory care communities such as MorningStar of Wheat Ridge care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages. Services include 24-hour supervision and typically offer a secure environment specifically designed to keep residents safe and secure. This means residents are encouraged to be as independent as possible and are free to explore their surroundings.

Another thing to know about memory care is that it has evolved through the years. Today’s communities now offer wellness programs that help deal with memory impairment and wandering issues as well as other common dementia behaviors. At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we provide residents a number of specialized programs and highly personalized care that addresses their unique needs.

Studies also show residents in memory care communities have a higher quality of life. A Place for Mom, the largest senior living referral website, reports that residents in memory care have “reduced medication and medication side effects; fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; increased nutrition and wellness; and greater independence and social interaction.” They also add that close to 75 percent of residents experience an improvement or maintenance of mental functioning.

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences. MorningStar of Wheat Ridge recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we are grateful we can provide the support they need. Please visit our website to learn more about our individualized, holistic memory care.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, “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 true home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge Offers Thoughtfully Designed Floorplans

May 12, 2020 by Quinn A

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Wheat Ridge enjoys a convenient location in the heart of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, a suburb on the north side of Metro Denver. 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.

Unlike many retirement communities, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge was built as a senior living community and meticulously designed to accommodate every need of our assisted living and memory care residents. For assisted living, we offer 45 graciously appointed suites in configurations that range from spacious studio to one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases and has 19 secure suites.

Each of our stylish units offers high ceilings, large windows, lighting, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and is equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Moreover, basic cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly rent and every suite has its own heating and air conditioning system. MorningStar also offers weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. Also, in case you wondered, we are pet friendly.

We encourage you to visit our website and take a look at the variety of floor plans as we feel sure your will find the perfect configuration for your needs. For example, we offer assisted living studio suites from 323 to 358 sq. ft. Assisted living one-bedroom units range from 400 to 577 sq. ft. and memory care one-bedrooms go from 381 to 481 sq. ft. Assisted living two-bedroom suites are as large as 798 sq. ft.

In addition, our website has more information on our community, family resources, MorningStar’s philosophy and mission as well as our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members.

Safety and Wellbeing at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

May 10, 2020 by Quinn A

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we are committed to provide the best senior living in the area, and our beautiful community was designed from the ground up to ensure our cherished residents’ safety and wellbeing. One of the ways we do this is by providing each of our assisted living and memory care residents with around-the-clock care from our compassionate team of care managers. This includes assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and eating as well as needed medical assistance. Each of our care managers is hired for their loving nature and their desire to serve seniors.

Our medication care managers/QMAPs are another way we help to keep our residents safe. In fact, a National Institutes of Health study found that 40% of seniors aged 65 and older take five or more prescription medications, and 90% take at least one prescription. The same study reports that as many of 55% of seniors take their medications incorrectly. MorningStar’s med managers will oversee both the ordering and supervised administration of a resident’s medications.

Each of MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s 45 bright assisted living suites is equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System. In addition, all have handicap-accessible bathrooms as well as wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, large windows and lots of lighting. Of course our entire community is handicap accessible with wide doorways, spacious common areas and hallways.

Reflections Neighborhood, our memory care area, is designed to encourage our most tender residents to explore their spacious surroundings easily and safely. We offer 19 secure memory care suites in a range of floor plans.

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for updates on the changes we have made to help keep our community safe during this difficult time.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Littleton

May 10, 2020 by Quinn A

If you are confused with what the term assisted living means, you are not alone. Relatively a new concept, assisted living is based on the European model and is not a nursing home. Assisted living is designed for seniors who require a little assistance with their daily personal care such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, etc. Furthermore, rather than taking away a person’s independence, assisted living provides the services seniors need to maintain an independent lifestyle.

At MorningStar of Littleton, our assisted living offers five levels of care. Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family. Also, regardless of your level of care, we provide all residents with around-the-clock Care Managers (at least one team member is CPR trained on each shift) to meet needs and ensure your comfort and safety.

On the MorningStar website, we list the many clinical services available to residents including Medication Management, which is performed by Certified Med Care Managers, routine care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations. In addition, we have a licensed nurse on-site or on-call, and provide transportation to residents’ medical appointments. If you or your loved one is diabetic, we offer diabetes management as well as oxygen administration services. MorningStar also provides more advanced care such as catheter and colostomy care or palliative/hospice care.

For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with a handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system, and is smartly-designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents. Our suites are all ready to move into and just require your furnishings and personal treasures. And yes, if you were wondering, we are pet friendly.

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for updates on the changes we have made to help keep our community safe during this hard time.

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

How to Help with the Transition to Assisted Living

May 10, 2020 by Quinn A

While many older adults wish to live out their senior years at home, for some, it is not a manageable option. Moreover, no matter our age, change can be challenging, and it is no different for seniors when the time comes for them move into an assisted living community.

To ease the transition, experts offer several tips that can help make the move less stressful. One suggestion is to start planning way ahead of the time you anticipate you will need to make the move. So, if you can, do not wait until your parent needs to go from a hospital stay into assisted living. The advantage to starting your search way in advance of the move is it allows you the time to find a place ideally suited to your loved ones’ needs and personality. Always remember it is a huge life transition and should be treated as such.

If possible, it is recommended to try and pick from one of the assisted living communities in the area they reside in as it allows them to retain some continuity in their lives including keeping their doctors. They can also continue to visit area friends and companions. If you will be moving the person to another town or state to be closer to family, keep in mind this can be especially difficult and your parent may need even more support. Experts advise in this situation to have more services in place rather than less. If later you find you do not need some of them, you can cancel them.

Another tip is to visit the new community as often as possible before the move. Along with a formal tour of the community, make arrangements for them to have lunch there several times before they move in or participate in an activity or special event. The more familiar they are with their new home the easier the transition will be.

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek encourages you to consider our loving community. We have 56 private assisted living suites available in a variety of configurations including spacious studio and one and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition to assisted living, we offer another 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for pricing and availability.

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-West Des Moines has to offer.