Learn More About the 1918 Flu Pandemic

While most of us have heard about the 1918 flu pandemic, sometimes called the Spanish Flu, that caused approximately 40 million deaths worldwide according to the World Health Organization (WHO), we may not know much more about it. Scientists explain this strain of flu was an H1N1 virus with a similar genetic structure of viruses derived from avian origins. Experts also say the methods for preventing the spread of the flu was much the same as preventing COVID-19 from spreading – handwashing, mask wearing, and avoiding close contact with others.

On October 6, 1918, a Greek newspaper published an announcement from the government that read: “The disease germs enter the body through the mouth and generally from the respiratory system. […] The disease spreads by coughs and [is] transmitted by air. Therefore, it is recommended the avoidance of [mental] stress and overwork. […] All schools must be close[d], and meticulous maintenance of cleanliness of lingerie and hands is proposed. In particular, it is highly recommended to avoid close contact with every person who displays flu symptoms.”

Moreover as with today’s pandemic, the virus has its various misconceptions and myths that spread throughout the general public. One such conspiracy theory widely circulated in the US and the United Kingdom was that the pandemic was caused by aspirin, which was produced by the German Bayer Company. Medical professionals believed the story was probably propagated by the fact that the flu emerged right at the end of World War I, which involved the US and England fighting against the Germans.

Another myth written up in a Brazilian paper involved German submarines spreading the virus. A similar story spread to the US’s East Coast where many believed German boats had come ashore and released the infection into the air. Experts say that like today, myths and misinformation spreads when scientists and doctors do not have solutions and people are anxious for answers.

If you are looking for the best senior living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek. We take the job of protecting the health and safety of those who dwell beneath our roof very seriously including our extensive COVID-19 protocols. Please visit our website to see pictures of our home, read about our amenities, and to inquire about pricing and availability.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek represents the best in assisted living and memory care with a unique 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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/the-flu-pandemic-of-1918-and-early-conspiracy-theories#Why-did-these-misconceptions-catch-on

Experienced, Loving Memory Care in Wheat Ridge, Colorado

Are you the adult child or spouse of someone who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge senior living community we understand the anguish and heartache that families go through seeing their beloved mom, dad, or spouse change before their eyes.  

If the diagnosis is recent, you are most likely wrestling with lots of questions including what will the future bring and who will be there to provide the level of care the person will probably need.  We hear you and want you to know our experienced team is here to help with holistic memory care that focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss.  

As dementia care experts, we provide specialized, individualized care to each resident and are equipped to care for the person from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Our Reflections Neighborhood was designed from the ground up to give residents the freedom to safely explore their surroundings.  Secure private suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  

Every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar family, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities.  Visit our website for contact information and give us a call, email, or use our Virtual Assistant for immediate help.  

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 real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about loving assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

A Shingles Vaccine is Recommended for Those Over Fifty

Most of us have heard the CDC and other health professionals stress the importance of everyone getting a flu shot this year.  However, you may not have heard about another important vaccine recommended for anyone over the age of 50.  Shingrix is a vaccine designed to prevent shingles and was introduced to the public in 2017.  The CDC reports Shingrix is the preferred shingles vaccine as it offers more than a 90 percent success in preventing shingles.  However, for the last couple of years, there have been shortages of the vaccine and it was not available to many older adults.  

While you should always check with your healthcare provider before getting any vaccine including the shingles’ vaccine, as of July 2020, a company’s spokesman said GSK's Shingrix is no longer on the CDC's shortages list, and there is now a supply “available to meet demand across all distribution channels.”   They still suggest you check with your drugstore or doctor to make sure they have the vaccine available.    

The CDC says the reason so many older adults are eager to get the vaccine is that “nearly one in three people in the U.S. develops shingles at some point.”  They add that symptoms include pain, rash, itching, and first fluid-filled, then eventually crusting blisters that can lead to permanent scarring. 

It is recommended that anyone over the age of 50 gets the Shingrix vaccine even if they are uncertain whether they have had chickenpox in the past or have a history of shingles.  The CDC also says you should get the Shingrix vaccine even if you got the Zostavax vaccine in the past.  Zostavax is a live vaccine and is only about 51 percent effective toward preventing shingles.  

Medical experts explain that the Shingrix vaccine is a recombinant vaccine. “This means vaccine manufacturers created it by altering and purifying DNA that codes for an antigen to produce an immune response to fight the virus.”  Shingrix requires two shots taken at least two to six months apart.  Common side effects from the vaccine include pain, swelling, itching and soreness at the site of the shot, and a small number of people report headaches.   The CDC says to consult your healthcare provider to learn whether a Shingrix vaccine is the right treatment option for you.       

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 real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about loving assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Source:  healthline.com/health/shingles-vaccine-side-effects#who-should-get-it

Looking for Assisted Living for Your Parent in the Des Moines Area?

If your parent lives alone and you are worried that they need more personal daily care than you can provide, it may be time to look into other options. One of those is assisted living, which focuses on providing residents the daily care they need to help them retain their independence.

Especially now, you want to judiciously make the best, safest choice for your mom or dad. To help you do so, experts offer a few suggestions of things to think about before you begin your search (obviously you want to respect mom or dad’s preferences and wishes). They recommend that while you take into account your parent’s immediate needs, you also give some thought to their future needs. So, find out if the home you are considering will allow them to “age in place” and/or if there are limitations in terms of how much care the community provides.

Your questions should include the level of care services they are licensed for as well as their limitations. For instance, at MorningStar at Jordan Creek our licensing provides us with a range of available care services that makes it possible for us to extend the stay of residents even as health conditions change.

Unless a resident requires round-the-clock nursing (including the management of acute pain), MorningStar is honored, with the partnership of a hospice agency, to care for a resident through end-of-life. In addition, as a licensed “Directed Level of Care” community, we care for residents within a secure environment (memory care) who, due to compromised cognitive ability, cannot recognize danger and, therefore, cannot respond appropriately and/or cannot express their needs.

If you are considering assisted living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our exceptional community. We are a true home where the residents are heroes who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect; and MorningStar families know they can trust their loved ones to us.

While we know there is a lot of worrisome stories in the news about COVID-19 among senior living communities, MorningStar wants potential families to understand that the care of those beneath our roof is our utmost priority. To that end we are following protocols set forth by the CDC and other organizations in our fight against the virus; and are confident in our ability to safely accept new residents.

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 offers.

Moving a Parent into a Memory Care Community

Now that the decision has been made to move mom or dad into memory care, you may be worrying about how they will handle the change. This is a common concern of families but experts have some tips to help ease the transition for both you and your loved one.

While realistically you understood the need for change, and knew your parent was not getting the care they needed to ensure their wellbeing and safety; it is still unsettling to think of them being subjected to such a big change. However, please remember you did your homework and wisely selected the community you thought was the best option. You also recognize the community is able and ready to provide the level of care you want for your loved one. So take a deep breath, and read some of the following advice.

First, remember that typically when families finally make the move to memory care, the person is no longer their self and most likely does not realize the extent of the problem. Thus it is unproductive to try and tell them you are doing this because they need help. Along the same lines, experts say it is best to not include them in the planning or packing process, it can be too upsetting for them.

If you can, schedule the move for the time of day the person is at their best and don’t over pack as too much stuff is just confusing to someone with dementia. Enlist the help of the home’s staff to aid you and your loved one in coping with the change. While COVID-19 may hinder some of your access to the new home, take advantage of any move-in programs and assistance offered including letting the Wellness Director explain to your parent why memory care is necessary.

In addition, you may want to take a few days off from work in case you are needed at the community. And while it may seem unfair, experts suggest you do not tell the person in advance about the move. Also remember with time it will get easier, and be sure to give them some time to adjust on their own.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s mission is to provide the best senior living Des Moines-West Des Moines has to offer, which includes loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia diseases. Our compassionate, experienced team feels privileged to serve our special residents. We consider the care and support of residents’ family members to be part of our job, and we are here for them as well. Visit our website for contact information.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek represents the best in assisted living and memory care with a unique 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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

Exceptional Assisted Living in Colorado Springs

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows wants to reassure families considering assisted living that if they put their loved ones into our home, we will see to it they receive the care they need. Before the resident even moves in, our Wellness Director, who is also a registered nurse, will meet with the family to thoroughly discuss the person’s medical history, current health condition, medications, and personal preferences. In addition, we regularly review, evaluate, and update care plans to ensure changing needs are addressed.

As a family member, some of your concerns may be focused on your parent or loved one’s medications especially if they have had problems taking them on time, all the time, or incorrectly. If you want to know if we offer medication management, the answer is yes, and we also offer pharmacy services. We consider medication management to be an important service to our residents as we know many seniors with chronic health conditions take several prescription medications daily, which can result in missed or improper dosages.

Your initial meeting with our Wellness Director is also a good time to discuss concerns such as a parent who has been losing weight recently and who may not be eating properly. Or it may be you worry they are not drinking enough fluids each day. We have an answer to both problems as our 5-star meal service is designed to be both nutritional as well as to temp the appetite of our most discerning residents. To help keep our residents hydrated, we make sure their have plenty of opportunities to drink throughout the day.

Along with our compassionate care services and resort-style amenities, residents have a choice of well-designed floorplans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs. Within our 45 assisted living suites, we offer floorplans that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. You will find all of our suites have high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items. Moreover, if you are wondering, we are pet friendly!

Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar and our Mountain Shadows community. While you are there, be sure to read the COVID-19 message from MorningStar’s CEO detailing our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to keep our communities safe.

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

Improve Memory and Stimulate Your Brain

We all know that even as seniors, physical exercise is important to maintaining healthy bodies but medical experts want us to remember that mental exercise is also essential to good brain health. Luckily there are many fun and entertaining ways to exercise our mind and include an array of games on our tablets or computers as well as ones that only need pen and paper. Games like Sudoku, mahjong, chess, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and solitaire are enjoyable and challenging ways to improve memory and stimulate the brain.

Moreover, there is good evidence that supports this claim such as the study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. The research team conducted a long-term study that found seniors who did crosswords four days a week had a 47 percent lower risk of dementia than those who only did them once a week.

Also, while there is the perception that chess is only for those who are very intelligent, it turns out the skills used to play a good game of chess are ones we all should cultivate as they may make us smarter. Experts says chess encourages “concentration and focus around ‘if then’ thinking, which is useful when making decisions.” The game forces you to think a few steps ahead and that type of thinking can be especially helpful for older people who are navigating options in life and could use a little help with creative thinking.

The good news is that many of these types of games are free or cost very little and even the Internet offers lots of options. To play a game of solitaire, you only need a deck of cards but playing on your tablet offers many different varieties of games of which some may be new to you. Crossword and Sudoku books as well as jigsaw puzzles can be ordered online and are very reasonably priced for the amount of entertainment you get. They also make great gifts for seniors.

We want you to know that MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is safely accepting new residents, and we are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. Our community provides 45 beautiful assisted living suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options. We also have 19 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. If you are looking for the best assisted living Colorado Springs offers, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows 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 for more information about the finest assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Source: sixtyandme.com/keep-your-brain-buzzing-with-these-free-brain-games-for-seniors/

Does Your Parent Need More Help?

It is sometimes difficult for adult children to realize their parent needs more care in order to ensure their safety and wellbeing.  This is why MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers a Decision Guide to help families navigate through the process of making the move to senior living, especially assisted living, which is a relatively new paradigm in wellness and engagement.  

Some of the typical signs that indicate your parent needs more help include falling, driving mishaps, and forgetting significant things such as leaving the stove-top on.  Also, really take a look at how they are living.  Does their home seem a lot more cluttered and less tidy?  Is unopened mail piling up?  Does your parent suffer from failing eyesight, poor balance or forgetfulness?  Another sign your parent is not doing well on their own is if they look less groomed or appear to be wearing the same clothes for days at a time.  

When you put all of this together, it probably means your loved one is not able to care for themselves as they once did, and it is time to begin discussing alternatives to ensure their safety and wellbeing.  Start by gathering your family together in a relaxed atmosphere and approach the conversation slowly.  Remember your first conversation is just a starting point and the decision will most likely be made in stages.  During the conversation it should be noted that getting the care your loved one needs will benefit the whole family.  You may even be pleasantly surprised to learn your parent has started to think they need a change.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers 45 private assisted living suites along with 19 secure memory care suites dedicated to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  During the coronavirus outbreak, MorningStar’s highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of residents, their families and staff. We are still accepting new residents, confident in our protective protocols.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Life Enrichment and Wellness at MorningStar’s Community in Littleton, CO

MorningStar of Littleton is designed to allow our residents to comfortably and safely age in place.  By offering luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a broad range of care services, we support the whole person – mind body and spirit.  Our holistic approach to successful senior living is accomplished through a balance of Life Enrichment and Wellness Care.  

We consider it part of our job to find creative solutions that can extend the stay of our residents even when their health conditions change, and often are able to give them a quality of care at a lower cost to families.  For assisted living residents, an individualized care plan is determined (based on five levels of care) after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the resident and their family.  

Along with our in-house care services, which include around-the-clock care managers and access to a licensed nurse on-site/on-call 24/7; we also refer families to home health and out-patient therapy services.  These are third-party providers we know and trust who bring additional services to our residents in the form of skilled medical professionals, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and others.  

MorningStar of Littleton has 65 bright suites for assisted living including a range of floor plans starting with spacious studio and one-bedroom units all the way to large two-bedroom floor plans.  If a family member requires memory care, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 20 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. 

For more information about all-inclusive senior living in Littleton, we encourage you to visit our website for contact information as well to inquire about pricing and availability.  Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. 

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

Organizing Your Medical Records is Important - We Have Tips to Help

What would happen if you or a loved one had a medical emergency that required immediate attention? Could you or another family member relay the person’s medical history to hospital personnel as well as provide an up-to-date record of their medications? Remember it needs to be right as this is important information for doctors to know before the person goes into surgery or receives treatment.

The John Hopkins Medicine website reports that keeping accurate medical records may also result in better healthcare. A study found that senior cardiac patients “who kept a personal health record enjoyed better health—perhaps because they and their caregivers could better see their health picture.” For suggestions on how to efficiently organize yours or a loved one’s medical records, take a look at some of the following tips experts share.

According to geriatric medicine physician Alicia Arbaje, M.D., M.P.H., the first step is to create a doctor directory for each family member. Include all of the various doctors they see as well as contact info and the role they play in the care team.

The next step is to put together the person’s medical history and current health information categorically and chronologically. Medical history should include pertinent health info on parents, siblings and grandparents. While medical records over a year old can be filed away, the current file needs to include information on past medical treatments, surgeries, accidents and hospitalizations. In addition the file should have a record of the current year’s doctor visits and hospital discharge summaries as well as pharmacy printouts of prescribed medications. Don’t forget to list any over-the-counter medications taken.

Add to your file test results from MRIs, cancer screenings, X-rays, and other routine blood tests, etc. Keep a list of known allergies, and if the person had an adverse reaction to a drug, record the name and dosage that they were taking at the time. If they suffer from chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, keep a record of those readings as well as recurring symptoms.

Another thing to keep in the file is a copy of the person’s living will and medical power of attorney. You should also give a copy of the person’s advance directives to their primary healthcare provider.

To save work, take advantage of the doctors’ electronic patient charts to access test results, doctor notes and other pertinent medical details. Lastly remember your medical records are only as good as the information so keep it up-to-date.

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:

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/medical-records-getting-organized

Welcome Home to MorningStar at Jordan Creek

If you are new to the name MorningStar allow us to introduce ourselves. MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 by Ken Jaeger whose intention was to create senior housing that felt like the loving atmosphere of his grandmother’s Mid-west home. We now have 25+ senior living communities scattered throughout the Western US including MorningStar at Jordan Creek, a Des Moines area assisted living and memory care home.

We sincerely believe our astounding success is attributed to a mission statement of honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing in our team’s ability to serve well. MorningStar communities are also deliberate in the type of culture we strive to create, which is why it is important for us to hire individuals that believe residents are to be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers 56 bright suites for assisted living, and each of our stylish apartments is a true home designed to provide residents privacy, comfort, and security. We also have a whole range of resort-style amenities such as an onsite theatre/ chapel, bistro, fitness room, library, salon and more. For residents’ convenience, we have scheduled transportation, and offer beautifully prepared meals under the direction of our Executive Chef.

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide compassionate, loving care to our most tender residents. 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 has to offer.

Learn More About Strokes

The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that every 40 seconds a person has a stroke and every four minutes someone dies from one.  While that is alarming, the AHA says that almost 80 percent of strokes can be prevented. 

Did you know that one of the leading causes of strokes is high blood pressure, also called hypertension, and is the most prevalent health condition facing Americans? Statistics show one in four US adults have hypertension, and as people age, their blood pressure goes up.  Experts now believe as many as 80% of people 65 years and older have hypertension and should take steps to reduce it.  If you fall into that age group or at risk for HBP, start by regularly monitoring your blood pressure.  If high, work with your doctor to find ways to lower it including getting more exercise and eating a healthy diet.  

Another way to help prevent strokes is to quit smoking.  Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream and forces the heart to work harder, which in turn, increases the likelihood of blood clots.  Also if you are diabetic, you need to manage the disease.  The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than someone without the disease. 

Exercise is another way to lower your risk.  Doctors say 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week, like a brisk walk, yoga or dancing are beneficial.  Moreover, if you are overweight, try to lose weight as obesity puts you at risk for any number of health issues including stroke.  And don’t forget to get your cholesterol checked.  The AHA recommends everyone 20 years of age and over should have it done at least every 5 years.   Check with your healthcare provider regarding other risks for stroke.  

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we approach senior living holistically to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community.    We offer 45 well-designed suites for assisted living and another 19 secure suites devoted to the individualized care for residents suffering with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Is Your Mom or Dad Having Serious Memory Problems?

If your mom or dad is having serious memory problems, we have some suggestions to help you navigate through this trying time.  Medical experts recommend to do some research on Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, in order to educate yourself on how the disease is diagnosed, stages of the disease, and some of what your family can expect if it is.  You may want to visit websites such as the Alzheimer’s Association as well as online support groups for family members dealing with the disease for suggestions on how to best prepare and support your parent.  

Also, remember it may not be dementia as there are medical conditions, reactions to medications, and nutritional and hormonal issues that can cause dementia-like symptoms.  This is why you need to sit down and have a talk with you parent about the problems they are having and the need to make an appointment with their healthcare provider for a full medical exam.   

Experts say when you are ready to have the “conversation,” be honest and try to keep your voice calm.  Pick a time and place where you will not be interrupted and be sure to include in your homework different care options in case they ask.  Also, be ready to talk less and listen more as they may have also been worried about some of the changes they have been experiencing.  However, keep in mind it is common for a person to be confused, in denial, and/or withdraw.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Wheat Ridge, we know something about the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provides a safe, loving home for seniors suffering from dementia.  If you are looking for trusted senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO, please give us a call.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms

Learn More About Assisted Living

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into assisted living knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar at Jordan Creek is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary from studios to two-bedrooms, all of our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, large windows and both natural and overhead lighting. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers the kind of senior living area families have come to count on. We have 56 bright suites for assisted living and another 29 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Des Moines offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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

A Flu Shot May Lower Your Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Not only do flu shots NOT make a person more likely to get Alzheimer’s disease, a myth that has been around for years, but recent research has found evidence that flu and pneumonia vaccines may actually protect you from Alzheimer’s. This year’s 2020 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference presented two studies that dealt with this very idea.

The first study was from the University of Texas where they went through millions of medical records in a national database with the goal of finding factors that appeared to affect a person’s risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. Albert Amran, a medical student of the McGovern Medical School at the university’s Health Science Center in Houston and an author of the study, relates that one of the commonalities was getting a flu shot. Researchers took into account other risk factors for Alzheimer’s such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, education, and income as well as the number of prescriptions a person filled as a way to check their overall health. Even after all that, Amran explained they found that “People who got at least one flu shot had a 17% reduction in risk, and people who got regular vaccinations saw their risk drop another 13%.

The other study presented at the conference was by a team of researchers from Duke University and the University of North Carolina. Svetlana Ukraintseva, an associate research professor in the Biodemography of Aging Research Unit at Duke's Social Science Research Institute of Medical Records, said the team studied the medical records of more than 5,000 people at least 65 years and older. In her presentation to the Conference, she stated they discovered individuals who had a “pneumonia vaccine before the age of 75 was at least 25% less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's.”

While scientists are uncertain why flu and pneumonia vaccinations appear to protect seniors from Alzheimer’s, they have some theories. One may be the fact that flu and pneumonia adversely affect the brain so protecting a person from the disease protects their brain from damage. Another theory is that getting the flu or pneumonia can result in a general weakening of the immune system and ultimately allow more bacteria and viruses into the brain, putting them more at risk for Alzheimer’s.

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:npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/07/27/894731147/flu-shot-and-pneumonia-vaccine-might-reduce-alzheimers-risk-research-shows

Fairly Easy Changes Which Will Improve Your Health

No matter what our age, there are some relatively easy things we can all do to improve our health. One of those suggestions is to develop the habit of eating more slowly. While it sounds like a simple thing, it actually offers a couple of health benefits. It gives our brain the chance to signal we are full, which can help prevent overeating as well as gives us additional time to think about what we are eating and maybe make better choices.

Another easy change is to get in the habit of eating fresh fruit rather than drinking fruit juice as even 100% pure juice loses some of its nutrients once it is processed. Eating fresh fruits are low in fat, sodium and calories and are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and folic acid. Also, fresh fruit fills you up more than juice. Some other recommendations include adding dark leafy greens to your diet and cutting back on sugar.

Also, experts advise watching the fat in your diet. Avoid trans fats that have been related to heart disease but remember some fats found in foods such as whole eggs, fish, avocados, nuts and dairy are part of a balanced diet. Doctors additionally say an alcoholic drink (one at most for women and two at most for men) a day may provide benefits for your heart.

Other ideas for improving health include reducing our level of stress. Experts say that regardless of what seems to trigger stress; not dealing with it can lead to a variety of serious health conditions including ulcers, heart disease and high blood pressure. Exercising is not only an excellent way to reduce stress but is good for our bodies, and no matter how old we are, we need to keep moving.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, an assisted living and memory care community in Colorado Springs, provides healthy, nutritional meals as well as care services and amenities to ensure carefree retirement years. We encourage you to visit our website for more information about our loving home. When you are there, take a look at our photo gallery and well-designed floorplans.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows 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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Colorado Springs

Rather than diminish a senior’s life, assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Mountain Shadows help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways. Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth. For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for.

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat. Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion. Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more.

Moreover, as the CDC reports that each year 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System. In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs area families trust MorningStar at Mountain Shadows to compassionately care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood takes a holistic approach to memory care that supports choice and independence and, above all, affirms individual dignity and value.

We are safely accepting new residents at this time confident in our protocols and procedures to ensure the health and well-being of both residents and team members. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows and to take a virtual tour of our beautiful community.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows 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 Colorado Springs offers.

Learn More About MorningStar of Littleton

For unsurpassed memory care or assisted living, Littleton, CO area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Littleton.  We are currently accepting new residents, confident in our safety protocols during the pandemic.  Please visit our website for lots of information about Morning Senior Living and the Littleton community, including a virtual tour.

The virtual tour will give you a good look at some of our beautiful common areas including our bistro, dining rooms, library, fireside patio and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness. 

MorningStar of Littleton is dedicated to providing compassionate, loving care that enhances our residents’ lives.  We are proud to have a team of individuals with a felt calling to serve, and who consider seniors to be heroes.  Each staff member is the type of person who does the right things even when no one is watching and willingly goes the extra mile to assist our residents.  

We also think it is important for families to know that we have been very deliberate in putting into place a coordinated defense against the coronavirus in every aspect of our operations and have built layer upon layer of protocols as information evolves.  Recently, we have begun to use Electrostatic Disinfecting Technology in our communities. It is harmless to you but deadly against infectious disease.  As the nation reopens, MorningStar is carefully following suit with each state’s phasing and pacing where our communities are located. We continue to stay abreast of developments and evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors.  

To give you comfort regarding our care during these unusual times, we would like to share just one of the messages MorningStar has received from our families.  They write, “I can’t imagine trying to work through this if Mom had still been on her own.”

MorningStar of Littleton’s mission statement “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 resort-style amenities, MorningStar offers residents the best memory care and assisted living Littleton offers.

Routine Eye Exams are Important as Ever

Ophthalmologists want to remind seniors not to neglect their eyes because of the pandemic and that everything is being done to keep them safe during routine eye exams.  In fact, several of the most common leading causes of blindness including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease are more effectively treated when discovered early.  

Doctors explain that people often do not realize their eyes are weakening as the brain does a good job of compensating for a creeping loss of vision, and may be putting themselves at risk for future blindness.  A dilated-eye exam can catch eye diseases early and may not only help save your vision but in some cases reverse damage.    

Yvonne Ou, associate professor in ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco, says when glaucoma is caught early through a comprehensive eye exam, it is a very treatable disease and generally can prevent vision loss that affects quality of life.  Doctors recommend getting tested every year at the age of 50 and older.  Those with a family history of glaucoma may need to be tested more often.  

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease that causes damage to the macula, and as its name suggests, age is one of the biggest risk factors.  There are two type of AMD, wet and dry, with dry AMD being the most common.  Treatments for early-detected dry AMD involve lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and taking steps to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, and eating a healthy diet.  

Another eye problem picked up with a dilated-eye exam includes diabetic retinopathy, which is “the top cause of blindness in working-age adults in the U.S., according to the CDC.”   Cataracts are also a condition that is age-related but fortunately very treatable.  When your doctor first sees signs of a cataract, experts say it may be 10 or 20 years before you will be bothered enough to do something about it.   

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer assisted living and memory care residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and safety.  Our wide range of services are designed to make life easier including scheduled transportation so you never have to worry about getting to a doctor’s appointment or other important trips.   Please visit our website for contact information and to learn about availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/eye-disease-blindness-risk/

September is the Time to Celebrate Assisted Living

With all that is going on around us, it is more important than ever to let our senior loved ones in assisted living know they are dearly loved and not forgotten as well as to thank the dedicated staffs of our area’s communities. National Assisted Living Week®, an annual event each September, does just that by celebrating and recognizing the role assisted living plays in caring for American seniors and those with disabilities.

Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National Assisted Living Week is the opportunity for assisted living communities around the country “to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care.” By setting aside a week, the NCAL explains it provides a chance for residents, their families, staff, volunteers, and the larger community to honor those who live and work in assisted living. This year’s event starts on Sunday, September 13th, and coincidently falls on National Grandparents’ Day, which is observed on the first Sunday after Labor Day.

Even though this year’s celebration will be different than other years as many assisted living communities are discouraging visits or have stopped visitations altogether, there are still things we can do to let our seniors know they are loved. One idea is to surprise your loved one with something special each day that week such as preparing a home-cooked meal, making a CD of their favorite songs, or pampering them with a basket of gourmet foods or scented soaps and lotions.

When visits are not possible; stay connected by scheduling regular Facetime, Skype, or phone calls as well as sending updated family pics and news about their grandkids. Also remember not all seniors have families so think about starting an adopt-a-grandparent program like an Early Childhood PTA in Ohio did who have had their children send crafts, cards and letters throughout the quarantine to brighten a senior’s day at a local assisted living community.

Do not forget to show your appreciation to the hardworking staff who has stepped up to the challenges of keeping your loved one safe. Keep in mind some communities do not allow staff to receive gifts over a certain value so check with management. However your gratitude is always welcomed by a thank-you note, a framed picture to a favorite caregiver of them and your parent, flowers, or coffee and treats for all.

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.