Help Reduce Your Risk of Falling with Balance Exercises

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than a third of people over the age of 65 suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department.  In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death.  To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.

Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength.  Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed.  The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do.  

One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk.  This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.  Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides.  Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance.  Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds.  Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps.   

Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides.  Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds.  Now do the same with the other side.  Do each side 3 times.  

At the MorningStar senior living communities we understand the importance of our residents living life to the fullest.  This is why MorningStar of Littleton offers a Life Enrichment program that focuses on creative ways to stay physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually active.  Please see our website for more information about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

MorningStar of Littleton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Littleton, CO has to offer.

Source: healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try

What Sets MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Apart from Other Communities?

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior living in Colorado Springs, you know there are a number of options. This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care. If you are a senior who needs a little help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living life to the fullest. In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to Licensed Nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more. They also provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of programming, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care. The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and even meals suitable for each resident.

At the MorningStar at Mountain Shadows assisted living and memory care community, we offer all of that and more with our wide range of services and amenities. Another thing that makes MorningStar a special place is our loving, compassionate team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents. Please visit our website for more information.

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 has to offer.

Is it Time for a Lifestyle Change for Mom or Dad?

Sometimes a senior has a fall or another medical emergency that precipitates the need for a change in their living circumstances such as a move into an assisted living community.  Other times, the situation is not so clear-cut and is more a case of a senior slowly losing the ability to attend to their daily care needs.  We know it is upsetting for families to see their loved one decline, which is why experts offer advice to help determine if an assisted living setting would be an improvement in their lifestyle.  

One way to decide if assisted living is right for your parent or another loved one is to take an inventory of the things they are having trouble doing for themselves and if assistance would improve their quality of life.  For instance, are they having a hard time preparing and cooking meals or need help bathing, toileting, and dressing?  Have they stopped driving and spend a lot of time alone?  Is your normally tidy parent now letting the household tasks go and/or mail is stacking up unopened and bills not getting paid?

Other factors that indicate the need for more help includes recent falls or burns from using water that is too hot or from cooking.  Warning signs also include a history of medication mismanagement or worsening chronic health problems, which could all benefit from the care received in an assisted living community.        

At MorningStar of Littleton, we offer 65 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 20 secure memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We make it easy for retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a staff who feel called to serve seniors.  

MorningStar of Littleton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built upon honoring God,valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Littleton, CO has to offer.

Visit Our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, we invite you to learn more about MorningStar of Wheat Ridge.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our home, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our 45 private assisted living suites and 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.  

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including dining rooms, library, bistro, theater, life enrichment room 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.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different, understanding senior living, care services, pricing, staff training, and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, availability and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our 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.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Reflections Neighborhood

Along with the finest assisted living Des Moines–West Des Moines has to offer; MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

The Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to allow our most tender residents the freedom to explore their surroundings safely and easily. Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help. We are honored to offer care and support 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.

We are staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease. Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes. MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents. Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

Please contact us to learn more about our community and the philosophy that guides our care. We know you will be gratified to discover a staff that is committed to providing compassionate, loving care and treats residents with the utmost dignity and respect they deserve.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Des Moines - West Des Moines offers. 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, MorningStar at Jordan Creek provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Help Maintain and Enhance Your Memory

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

What sets MorningStar of Littleton apart from other senior living Littleton, CO offers?  We strive to provide a true “home” for our residents and have a team committed to serving seniors who treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.  Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents. Please visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Littleton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Littleton, CO has to offer.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

As We Age, Good Nutritional Habits are More Important Than Ever

The government first published nutritional recommendations in 1941, which became known as the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDAs). At the time, recommendations were more concerned on ensuring the population “as a whole was adequately fed and free from scurvy, rickets and other wartime diseases of malnutrition.” These early guidelines did not address long-term issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

Since then, we have learned we need to focus on maintaining good nutritional habits well into our senior years to avoid or mitigate our risk for chronic diseases. One example is type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body’s muscle, fat and liver cells stop responding well to insulin resulting in consistently high blood sugar. Doctors say type 2 diabetes can be caused by too much sugar and refined-carbohydrates in our diet, and to lessen our risk, we should maintain a healthy weight and minimize blood-sugar spikes as well as add more fiber to our diet.

Another thing an older adult should be aware of is muscle loss. Along with resistance training, weight-lifting, Pilates, and yoga, nutritionists say to maintain strength we need to include protein in our diet. Christine Ritchie, director of research for the division of palliative care and geriatric medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, says older adults’ diet should include more protein than when they were younger. A man in his 50s needs “about 25 to 30 grams at each meal (like a medium chicken breast or burger, a 5-ounce can of tuna mixed with mayo, 2 cups of cooked rice and beans, or a cup of low-fat cottage cheese).”

Government dietary guidelines report that we burn approximately 200 fewer daily calories after age 50, so if you keep eating like you did in your thirties or forties, you will probably gain weight. Also, as bone loss starts sometime in our early thirties and continues into old age, seniors should consume foods with calcium and vitamin D. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends 1,200 milligrams a day of calcium for women and 1,000 mg for men. Additionally, eat fruits and vegetables in a bright range of colors for heart-protecting antioxidants.

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer. We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why meals are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Our beautiful home offers 56 bright suites for assisted living and another 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers the very best in assisted living and memory care 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. Please visit our website to learn more about the most trusted senior living Des Moines – West Des Moines has to offer.

Source: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/nutrition-after-age-50.html

Are You a Senior Who Wants to Start Exercising Again?

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin.  For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did.  And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.  

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin.  In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints.  Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair.  Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere.  The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.  

At MorningStar of Littleton, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Tucked at the foot of the majestic Rockies, MorningStar of Littleton offers 65 private assisted living suites and 20 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please see our website to learn more.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Littleton, CO offers.  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, MorningStar of Littleton provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/

The Importance of Getting the Assistance You Need

Too often seniors mistakenly believe that moving into assisted living means an end to their independence and their life as they knew it. We want to reassure you that at today’s assisted living communities like MorningStar at Jordan Creek; nothing could be further from the truth.

Aging.com explains that while changes in a person’s ability to care for themselves can be caused by underlying medical conditions, studies show the importance of seniors receiving the assistance they need with the ADLs (activities of daily living). “Functional status and the ability to care for oneself have a significant impact on a senior's quality of life. Unmet needs for help with activities of daily living can lead to malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and falls.”

Another benefit of getting the help you need when you need it, is it actually gives the person a renewed sense of independence and lets them feel like they are once again in control of their life. Independence promotes a sense of achievement as well as a sense of self-worth and purpose. It inspires achievement, and reminds seniors that they still have a lot to contribute to their families, their communities and the world as a whole.

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, one important part of our mission statement includes “valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.” Thus, our entire community is focused on physical, intellectual, spiritual and social activities that present creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive each day. Residents may also tap into their own unique talents and experiences by leading special interest clubs.

Our beautiful home has 56 assisted living suites to meet a variety of needs from spacious studios to one- and two-bedroom floorplans as large as 820 sq. ft. While enjoying their stylish private suites, assisted living residents have peace of mind knowing that help is readily available when they need it. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. For the area’s finest assisted living, Des Moines area seniors are encouraged to contact us for more information.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Des Moines - West Des Moines offers. 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, MorningStar at Jordan Creek provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

Age Comfortably and Safely at MorningStar’s Community in Colorado Springs

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows 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.

The amenities at our beautiful community include a fireside patio and strolling paths as well as an in-house salon for hair-styling, manicures and pedicures, a fitness room, library and much more. We also have a Bistro, and along with our beautiful restaurant-style dining in our main dining room, we offer residents a private dining area for intimate dinners with family and friends.

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 residents 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 at Mountain Shadows has 45 stylish suites for assisted living including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. If a family member requires memory care, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 19 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.

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.

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 an assisted living community 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 of Wheat Ridge have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away.   Another perk of MorningStar 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 of Wheat Ridge offers the kind of senior living area families have come to count on.  We have 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please visit our website for more information.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our 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.

Are You Caring for an Elderly Family Member?

If you are the main caregiver for an elderly family member who requires help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), it may be the job is becoming too much for you.  The Nov/Dec issue of Today’s Geriatric Medicine cites a study by the “National Alliance for Caregiving and Caring Across Generations,” which states that more than 11 million American adults are considered sandwich generation caregivers and bear the responsibility of simultaneously caring for their children as well as an aging family member.  In total it is believed there are approximately 40.4 million unpaid caregivers for adults 65 years and older in the United States consisting of adult children, spouses, relatives or friends.  In addition, 61 percent of those caregivers are employed, including nearly half who work full-time and juggle their own family responsibilities.    

For most people caregiving is a labor of love but there is no denying it can be challenging.  Whether you are an adult child with your own children, a spouse, or another relative, you may feel it is time to ask for help.  This decision may lead you to an assisted living community where mom or dad will receive all the care they need and you can go back to being their loving child.  If you are a spouse who has been responsible for the caregiving duties, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Littleton warmly welcome married couples to live together in their own suite, surrounded by their own treasured possessions. 

MorningStar of Littleton is pleased to give residents and their families peace of mind knowing that trained care managers are there to help navigate changes in health, and that transportation is available for doctor visits and other errands.  It is also a relief to know mom or dad will have nutritional, daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef, built-in companionship, and the comfort of knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed.  

In addition, MorningStar has a team of caregivers who feel it is a privilege to serve seniors and understand that residents deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  Our community has 65 suites for assisted living and 20 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  If you are looking for outstanding senior living, we encourage you to contact us for more information about our beautiful home.  

MorningStar of Littleton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 senior living Littleton, CO offers.

Sources: 

viewer.zmags.com/publication/d04ca42b#/d04ca42b/9

pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/11/18/5-facts-about-family-caregivers/

Most of Use See Our First Gray Hair in Our Thirties

While some people seem to not turn gray until an advanced age, most of us see our first gray hair sometime in our thirties. Experts say in time, everyone’s hair will turn gray, and with each decade after age 30, your chance of going gray increases by 10 to 20 percent. For those blessed with a very long lifespan, their hair will most-likely go completely white.

The process is gradual as each strand of hair a follicle produces remains the same color it starts out as. For instance a strand of blond hair stays blonde regardless of how long it grows (we typically keep a strand for up to 3 ½ years). Gray hair and eventually white hair is caused as our follicles produce less and less color as we age.

However, not all gray hair is a result of “age-related graying.” In some cases, experts say stress may play a role in how quickly someone grays. They point out that most likely it is not the stress itself that makes hair go gray but rather it triggers “a common condition called telogen effluvium, which causes hair to shed about three times faster than normal.” So if you are the right age, many of the new hairs that grow in may be gray.

When very young people start to turn gray, it can be a cause for concern. Premature hair graying (PHG) can be from a vitamin B12deficiency, thyroid disease, or smoking as well as vitiligo, which causes melanocytes (cells at the base of hair follicles that produce the hair’s color) to be lost or destroyed. Still researchers say turning gray is mostly influenced by the genes we inherit from our parents and we can get a better idea of when we will turn gray by looking at past generations.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan Creek is dedicated to providing the finest senior living Des Moines – West Des Moines offers, and we know the best care starts from the heart. Our loving home promotes a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community and offers an array of comprehensive care services and amenities. From scheduled transportation, 5-Star dining to routine care planning reviews, activities and wellness programs, we are building a MorningStar family. Visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek represents the best in senior living 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: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/causes-gray-hair

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar at Jordan Creek

If you are looking for the best senior living Des Moines – West Des Moines offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar at Jordan Creek. Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community. In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design. Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities. Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our 56 private assisted living suites and 29 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment. Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page. Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including gathering spaces, dining rooms, bistro, theater, fitness room, salon 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.

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart. More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, COVID-19; and the move in process. If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, available and any other questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek represents the best in senior living 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.

As We Age, the Risk of Falling is a Serious Concern

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls.  Medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall.  Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.   

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving.  The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving.  To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.    

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor.  Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives.  It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else.  Also, talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.   

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you.  Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.  

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention.  Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed.  Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home.  Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance.  Install grab bars and railings where needed.           

At MorningStar of Littleton, an assisted living and memory care community, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need.  Moreover, our cherished residents and their families know they can trust the compassionate, professional MorningStar team to deliver the finest senior living in Littleton, CO.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Littleton, CO has to offer. 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, MorningStar of Littleton provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

Forgetfulness is Not an Inevitable Part of Aging

In a recent article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health. Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain. An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.” Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming. However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health. This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night. Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

What sets MorningStar at Jordan Creek apart from other assisted living Des Moines or West Des Moines offers? We strive to provide a true “home” for our residents and have a team committed to serving seniors who treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents. Please visit our website for more information.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Des Moines - West Des Moines offers. 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, MorningStar at Jordan Creek provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Learn More About MorningStar and Our Littleton, CO Community

MorningStar of Littleton is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company whose vision is “to be a company of servant-minded, purpose-driven leaders in our senior communities and throughout the world.”  This means right from the start we have made a point to staff our loving home with individuals who feel called to serve and understand that seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  

In addition, we support MorningStar’s mission of serving others here at home and throughout the world including supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and the Casa Bernabé orphanage in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua.  We also support MorningStar’s partnership with “Lifewater,” a non-profit organization that focuses on delivering safe water sources to villages across the globe. 

MorningStar of Littleton is also guided by our company’s founding principles that include: 

• Honoring God in our business practices and relationships 

• Valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals 

• Investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well 

Thus our home’s first priority is to create a comfortable, compassionate home while striving to meet residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs.  Also, while our company was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews, and understand it is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person.

MorningStar of Littleton has 65 stylish assisted living suites as well as 20 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Littleton, CO offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Littleton, CO has to offer. 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, MorningStar of Littleton provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Assisted Living at MorningStar Offers Peace of Mind to Family Members

If you have been relying on a piecemeal approach to care for your elderly parent’s various needs, you may want to consider moving them into an assisted living community. Especially now during the pandemic, having a series of people coming into their home on a daily basis may not make good sense. Another thing many are not aware of is that assisted living can be more affordable than in-home care services. Experts say if you are paying for more than 40 hours of weekly care, all told, assisted living is probably less expensive.

Moreover, the peace of mind you get knowing trained care managers are always available to help navigate changes in your loved one’s health, is priceless. As some of the best assisted living Colorado Springs offers, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides residents a beautiful home and a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and security. Our team is committed to serving seniors and ensuring they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

As an assisted living resident, your parent will have an individualized care plan created just for them after an extensive interview process with our Wellness Director. It includes an assessment of their current health as well as a full review of their medical history. Additionally, we routinely re-evaluate the needs of our residents and update care plans as needed. Monthly costs are based on the level of care (we have five levels), along with various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, that are priced a la carte.

Our stylish suites are ready to move into and all new residents need to do is bring their furnishings and personal items and we will provide the rest including three daily tasty and nutritional meals, a 24/7 care staff, full-time licensed nurse, scheduled transportation and much more. And in case you wondered, MorningStar is pet friendly. We invite you to take a look at our website to learn more about our amenities, our services, and our company’s philosophy to care.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ 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 the finest assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Should You Still Wear a Mask After Vaccination?

Now that many seniors are receiving their COVID-19 vaccines, we are all getting impatient to get back to normal life.  However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cautions that even after we receive our second dose of the vaccine, we still need to wear our face mask, at least for a while.  

To start with, it will take some time to build up our immunity to the virus as well as the fact that the vaccine is not 100 percent effective against COVID-19.  Pfizer-BioNTech reports that “protection doesn't start until 12 days after the first shot and that it reaches 52% effectiveness a few weeks later.”  Their studies have shown that around a week after you receive your second vaccination, the effectiveness rate is 95%.  With the Moderna vaccine, an individual is reported to have a “protection rate of 51% two weeks after the first immunization and 94% two weeks after the second dose.”

Another reason the CDC recommends continuing to mask up around people outside your “pod,” is that doctors do not know if vaccinated people who may still get a mild or asymptomatic case of COVID-19 can spread the virus to others.  As more and more people get vaccinated, they hope to have more answers to those questions.  For now to protect yourself and others, wearing a mask when in groups, socially distancing at least 6 ft. apart, and frequently washing our hands, are all good advice to follow over the next several months as healthcare providers work to get more people vaccinated.       

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is a beautiful assisted living and memory care community located in a northern suburb of Metro Denver.  Our entire community was designed from the ground up to fulfill the various needs of residents in terms of care services, fine dining, and stimulating activities and programs.  While many difficult changes at our community have been made during the coronavirus outbreak, we are looking forward to a brighter future in the days to come.

We are happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations began at MorningStar communities at the beginning of January.  Even with the reality of the COVID-19 vaccine, MorningStar will continue its coordinated defense across every aspect of our operations, including hand hygiene, masks, and six-foot distancing. As the nation backs out of quarantine, our communities are carefully following suit in keeping with each state's phasing and pacing.  

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our 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: 

npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/01/12/956051995/why-you-should-still-wear-a-mask-and-avoid-crowds-after-getting-the-covid-19-vac

Memory Care at MorningStar of Littleton

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Littleton offers individualized, specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease.  The expansive area houses 20 secure suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings.  Memory care residents also enjoy the outdoors with an enclosed courtyard.

Normally, mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. During the coronavirus outbreak, however, changes have been made in dining protocols to protect both residents and team members. We are happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations began at our community at the beginning of January. In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.   

As dementia care specialists, we focus on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.  In order to create an effective individualized care plan to guide our daily interactions and communication techniques, we meet with the senior and their family to learn as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and preferences even before they join our community.  Our specialized care incorporates music, art, dance, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents while taking into account the uniqueness of each person.   

Another thing that makes MorningStar of Littleton a special place for memory care is our loving, compassionate team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Littleton proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 Littleton, CO offers.