Memory Care Under a "Lavender Sky"

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers 19 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch.  However most importantly, we embrace hope.  

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan. 

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.  

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's Response to the Coronavirus

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we are staying vigilant in our approach to the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. We are still accepting assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. Our highest priority is to the health and safety of our residents, their families and our staff members.  

We are doing all we can to achieve this including instituting a policy that temporarily suspends non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our home.  MorningStar is also keeping up-to-date and following closely, and in many cases exceeding, guidelines set by the CDC to ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone in our community.   

Some of these actions include having all assisted living residents dine in their suites with the exception of those with an Individualized Service Plan that require assistance with eating.  They will be served in the dining room, widely spaced from one another.  Our memory care residents will dine as usual but they too will be spread out as far apart as possible.  Other steps include suspending all non-essential visits (medical personnel and end-of-life situations are the exception), eliminating all resident outings, and cancelling all events and outside entertainment.  

All of our team members have received training on infection control with an emphasis on hand sanitation including information from the CDC on COVID-19 and the uniqueness of this viral strain.  We have also modified and increased the frequency of our cleaning practices throughout our home.    

However most importantly of all, our team knows our residents well and is on high alert for any signs of respiratory illness, and has plans in place to address this including protocols for quarantine and relocation, as needed.  We invite you to visit our website to read our full coronavirus (COVID-19) update.   

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.  Our beautiful community has 56 well-designed, comfortable assisted living suites with options that include spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans, some as large as 820 square feet.  We also have 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  

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 for more information about the finest senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines has to offer.

Managing Chronic Pain

Unfortunately some of us are living with chronic pain caused by a variety of ailments, diseases, or injuries.  While it can make getting through the day a struggle, experts stress that it doesn’t mean it has to be an inescapable spiral toward depression and unhappiness as there are things a person can do to help manage the pain.  

One of those suggestions is to learn one of the many relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, meditation or mindfulness.  Massage therapy, yoga, biofeedback, and music or art therapy have also been found to be beneficial.  If you practice one or more of these relaxation techniques, you will reduce stress and help to center yourself in a calmer, more balanced place.   

Another way to manage pain is through exercise.  However the Mayo Clinic advises anyone 40 or over who has not been physically active to consult with their health care provider before beginning.  In addition, they caution that “if you have pain from an injury, recent surgery, a physical disability or a chronic condition such as osteoporosis, it's best to work with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist to be sure you can exercise safely and avoid hurting yourself.”

They also say it is important to get enough sleep.  If you are a restless sleeper and have difficulty sleeping through the night, you should talk to your doctor about your pain management medications.  If a medication is a stimulant, ask your doctor about taking it early enough so as to not interfere with your sleep, and if it causes drowsiness, see if you can take it right before bed.  Try using relaxation techniques right before bed and get into the habit of a regular bedtime.   

Also avoid napping longer than 30 minutes during the day and do not eat a heavy meal too close to bedtime.  Doctors caution against drinking too much alcohol as it can cause sleep problems.  Yet another suggestion helpful to many people suffering from pain is to join a support group.  This puts you in touch with others who understand what you are going through.  However, if you feel you need more personal support, ask your doctor to recommend a mental health professional.  

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 has to offer.

Source: mayoclinic.org/lifestyle-strategies-for-pain-management/art-20367321

Steps to Improve Your Cognitive Functioning

Researchers says that even if we are not developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, as we grow older, our memory, decision-making, and ability to learn simply begin to wear down.   This process is referred to as “cognitive aging” and doctors now say there are evidence-based steps we can take to improve our cognitive functioning.  

The published study from the Institute of Medicine titled “Cognitive Aging: Progress in Understanding and Opportunities for Action,” detailed three ways we can protect and bolster our aging brain.  The study’s authors are Dr. Dan Blazer, chair of the report and professor emeritus of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center, and Dr. Valentin Fuster, director of Mount Sinai Heart and physician-in-chief at the Mount Sinai Hospital.  The report is intended to provide relevant information to both physicians and patients. 

According to the study, the first thing we can do to help keep our brain healthy (and other parts of our body) is to engage in light exercise every day.  Activities such as walking, gardening, swimming or biking help increase the blood flow to the brain, which helps to maintain and improve its functioning.  

The Cognitive Aging report also found that in order to reduce our risk for or to better manage cardiovascular disease, we need to eliminate unhealthy habits such as smoking and maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure.  It recommends that if you do have high cholesterol, you follow your doctor’s instructions and continue to have the necessary blood tests done.  

The third key to improving and maintaining good cognitive functioning is to consult with your doctor to review the list of medications you are currently taking.  Dr. Blazer explains that, “Older adults are sometimes on more medications than they need to be on."  He adds, “Many, if not all of them, can potentially affect your cognitive functioning.” 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ goal is to provide the best assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer. Our 24/7 care services include medication care managers/QMAPs, who administer and document regularly prescribed medications per the Medication Administration Record and physician orders. Please visit our website for more information.   

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 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 offers.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge Offers Compassionate Memory Care

Caring for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can be a very stressful job.  If you think it is time to consider other care options, rather than feeling disappointed in yourself, remember the job of a caregiver is tough and it may be in yours as well as your spouse, mom, or dad’s best interest to move them into memory care.      

If caring for a loved one requires more effort on your part than you are able to give physically or mentally, please reach out and get the help you need as your own health and wellbeing may be aversively impacted. Also, experts stress that while there is no downside to placing someone in memory care in the earlier stages of the disease there could be drawbacks to waiting too long.  Remember the more advanced stages bring with it a significant decline in everyday functioning.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers 19 secure suites for the care of residents with memory impairment from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a team of individuals who through purposeful training and experience are dementia care specialists.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness.  Additionally, every aspect of our home has been designed to accommodate those needs.    

Keep in mind as the disease progresses; it becomes very difficult for a family to keep up with the increasing needs as the person requires more and more assistance with daily care activities such as bathing, toileting, and eating.  Other signs of advanced dementia include reduced mobility, wandering, and falling, which may require home modifications.  Professional memory care homes such as ours are equipped to deal with these issues and have 24/7 caregivers available.  

So rather than feel like you let your loved down by not caring for them yourself, placing them in a multi-faceted community designed to attend to their changing needs may be the most loving thing you can do.  Please contact MorningStar of Wheat Ridge to learn more about our compassionate memory care.   

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.

Enjoy the Beautiful Weather but Take Care of Yourself!

Now that we are moving into the lazy days of summer, many of us cannot wait to get out and enjoy the warmer weather.  However seniors should know that higher temperatures and humidity can be dangerous for them if they are not careful.  According to a study from the University of Chicago Medical Center, 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were in people over 65.  Signs of heat-related illness include headache, confusion, dizziness, or nausea; and if you do get overheated, it is important to get relief quickly. 

To prevent hyperthermia (overheating), the National Institute of Health (NIH) cautions the elderly to avoid the outdoors during the hottest part of the day, and warn it is not only 100°F temperatures that put them at risk.  They explain seniors are more susceptible to heat-related illness for a number of reasons including the normal aging of sweat glands and changes to the skin.  

Also medications used to treat health conditions common in the elderly such as “diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and some heart and high blood pressure medicines;” can make it harder for the body to cool itself.  In addition heart, lung or kidney diseases can cause heat-increasing fevers. 

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests when seniors do go outside to do it in the early morning or evening and sit in the shade.  They also recommend using sunscreen of SPF 30 on any exposed skin every day, whether you are inside or out.  Additionally drink plenty of water and fruit or vegetable juices, and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.  If you don’t have air conditioning, keep the blinds closed during the heat of the day; and take cool showers, baths or sponge baths if you feel overheated.  Doctors also suggest getting to a place where you can sit in air conditioning like the mall, and if you cannot cool down; seek medical help as heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.

Another all-too common problem for seniors is dehydration.  As we age, the thirst sensation diminishes, and instead of our bodies signaling the need for fluids, we don’t feel thirsty.  Dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization in the elderly, and as early signs include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness and muscle cramps, they are often attributed to other problems.  Anne Vanderbilt, CNS, a geriatric nurse says, “By the time they are thirsty, that’s already an indication of early dehydration,” so have water available to sip throughout the day.   Enjoy the nice weather but please play it safe!

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 has to offer.

Source:

nia.nih.gov/health/hot-weather-safety-older-adults

health.clevelandclinic.org/drink-up-dehydration-is-an-often-overlooked-health-risk-for-seniors/     

Is it Time for a Mobility Aid?

If you or a loved one is starting to feel less steady on your feet and at risk of falling, a walker, cane or even a wheelchair or scooter is probably advisable.  However, before you start using a hand-me-down walker or buy any-old cane; experts warn that one size does not fit all.  In the case of a walker, to be an effective and safe mobility aid, it is important to have an expert help you pick out the best type and size for your needs.   

As AgingCure.com points out, “The wrong device can negatively affect a senior’s stability, cause posture-related problems and even result in pain. Mobility aids come in all shapes and sizes, so selecting the right equipment and achieving a proper fit usually requires a professional’s assistance and expertise.”  To get started determining what your needs are, experts recommend seeing your healthcare provider to discuss any problems you are having with your activities of daily living (ADLs).  If they recognize a need for a mobility aid, they may refer you to an occupational or physical therapist.  

The following are a couple of basic guidelines to know before you get started.  A cane can help provide balance and stability and is ideal for someone who needs to support no more than 25% of their body weight.  It is most useful for those minimally impaired or with weakness in one leg.   Walkers are available in a variety of models but regardless of the style a “correct height of a walker is measured from the floor to the wrist, and the elbows should be flexed in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.”  Experts also say the walker must be large enough to provide front and side support for the user.  

A motorized scooter may be the answer for someone who has lost the ability to walk any distance but still has an adequate amount of strength in their arms and upper body to stay upright as well as drive the scooter.  Again there are a variety of models including indoor and outdoor ones as well.  Keep in mind though that most insurance companies and Medicare Part B typically only cover scooters for in-house use.     

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 offers.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/expert-advice-how-to-choose-a-mobility-aid-190138.htm

Learn More About Hearing Loss

If you think your spouse or an elderly parent may be suffering from hearing loss (keep in mind it is extremely common in seniors), the AARP has some good tips to help you decide if it is time to convince them to see a doctor.  The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders states that approximately 1 in 3 people between 65 and 74 years of age, and nearly half of those older than 75, have trouble hearing. 

While we may think it should be easy for someone to know if they are experiencing hearing loss, the problem is that the loss generally occurs slowly over time.  Thus as a person starts having trouble hearing, they self-correct by doing things like turning up the volume on the TV, and is why it is often other people who are the first to suspect a problem.  

Experts say it is important to get help for hearing loss as it is treatable and can lead to social isolation, which is linked to depression, dementia, and even falls.  In addition to the volume turned way up on the TV and radio, doctors say other signs include the person constantly asking you to repeat yourself and having difficulty following conversation.  The person may start talking louder than a situation calls for or be uncomfortable talking on the phone.  They may also be unable to hear an alarm, the phone ringing or the doorbell. 

People can be reluctant to go to a doctor for hearing loss for a variety of reasons including the cost of a hearing aid, the bother of wearing one and being afraid it will make them feel old.  Stefanie Wolf, AuD, a clinical audiologist with Audiology of Nassau County in Rockville Centre, New York, says to “remind your loved one that treating hearing loss isn't just about improving their ability to perceive sounds; it can contribute to their overall health and well-being.”

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 offers.

Source: aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/hearing-loss-common-signs.html

How We Care for Residents at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is a beautiful senior community that offers assisted living as well as memory care.  Our exceptional team is experienced in serving seniors and understands what it needed to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  

In fact, all facets of our community were designed from the ground up to compassionately and professionally serve our residents and we start with 24/7 care managers and access to licensed nurses and certified medication care managers/QMAPs.  MorningStar’s care managers help our assisted living residents retain their independence by providing help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including dressing, grooming, bathing, toileting and eating as well as other medical assistance.  These dedicated individuals were hired for their big hearts and a desire to serve seniors.

MorningStar’s medication care managers/QMAPs also play an important role based on statistics from a National Institute of Health study.  It reports that 40% of seniors aged 65 and older take five or more prescription medications, and 90% take at least one prescription. In addition, it found that 55% of those seniors are improperly taking their medications.  Our certified med managers oversee both the ordering and dispensing of medications to our residents.  

For residents’ safety, our entire community is handicap accessible with wide doorways, spacious common areas and hallways, and each suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms.  In addition, all 45 of our bright assisted living suites have a 24-hour Emergency Call System.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 secure suites devoted to caring for those with memory impairment and is designed to encourage our tender residents to easily and safely explore their spacious surroundings.  

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 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 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.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet May Help Manage Various Diseases

Medical experts say that while inflammation helps our bodies to fight illness and can be a necessary part of the healing process, there are some people whose immune systems do not work as they should, and they suffer from chronic inflammation.  This condition manifests itself in various diseases including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, asthma and metabolic syndrome (“a collection of conditions that tend to occur together, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease”).

However, the good news is researchers have found evidence that shows our diet may help us manage many of the symptoms of these diseases.  They report that, “An anti-inflammatory diet favors fruits and vegetables, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and spices.”  Foods to avoid or to limit consumption of include processed foods, red meats, and alcohol.

Doctors recommend approaching an anti-inflammatory diet as less of a specific regimen but more as a new, healthier style of eating. Two examples of diets that incorporate anti-inflammatory foods are the Mediterranean and DASH diets which favor foods rich in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids over those that increase the production of free radicals, which are believed to lead to cell damage.  

Research shows that sugary or processed foods can trigger or worsen inflammation, and that some foods such as those fried in very hot cooking oil can trigger the formation of free radicals.  Other factors that can increase the body’s free radicals include stress and smoking.   

The Arthritis Foundation also notes that research has identified foods that can help control inflammation.  These include tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collards, nuts like almonds and walnuts, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, and fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges.  Please keep in mind that anyone with a chronic health condition involving inflammation should consult their healthcare provider about the best dietary options for them.

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.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320233#takeaway

The Connection Between Diabetes and Alzheimer’s Disease

Recent studies have suggested a connection between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease but researchers do not yet fully understand the connection.  Moreover, while not all of the research has confirmed a link, researchers say that people with diabetes, especially type 2, appear to be at higher risk for eventually developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.   

One of the things not yet known is whether taking steps to prevent or control diabetes helps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline.  However, we do know that one of the complications of diabetes is damage to the body’s blood vessels as well as the fact that diabetes is one of the risk factors for vascular dementia, which causes a reduced or blocked blood flow to the brain.   

Scientists first suspected a connection between Alzheimer’s and diabetes when they realized that the changes in the brain were very similar; and it has been hypothesized that each of these conditions may fuel the damage caused by the other.   With new research, experts hope to get a better understanding of the connection between the two diseases.  “That link may occur as a result of the complex ways that type 2 diabetes affects the ability of the brain and other body tissues to use sugar (glucose) and respond to insulin.”

We also know that diabetes increases the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which may eventually lead to full blown dementia.  In addition, MCI can also appear years earlier in people who later are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.  

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our loving community. Along with our 45 assisted living suites, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers 19 secure memory care suites dedicated to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

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.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-and-alzheimers/art-20046987

Despite COVID-19, Get the Medical Attention You Need

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

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

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

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

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. 

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.

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

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.

Sun Protection is Still Important for Seniors

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

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.

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 has to offer.

Learn More About Dementia

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.

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 has to offer.