Forgetfulness is Not an Inevitable Part of Aging

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 at Mountain Shadows apart from other assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer?  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 at Mountain Shadows proudly provides the best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a beautiful environment with resort-style amenities, we encourage you to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

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

Looking for Assisted Living in Colorado Springs?

If you have started the search for assisted living in Colorado Springs, you will want to include MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Our all-inclusive community offers an array of luxury amenities, while at the same time, all of the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every private suite is smartly-designed to maximize space and include floorplans in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. All have wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, lighting, and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Residents also enjoy our weekly housekeeping service. 

We provide residents the care to help them maintain their independence, and the amenities and wellness programs to keep them engaged and looking forward to each new day. MorningStar’s all-day dining service means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule. A full salon makes it easy to get a new hair style, treat yourself to a pedicure or a manicure. Our fitness room along with specialized exercise classes will help you stay in shape; and MorningStar’s Life Enrichment room is a busy place with something new always going on. Outdoor amenities include a fireside patio, strolling paths, and resident gardening beds. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community also provides secure suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. 

We encourage you to contact us with any questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. 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.  

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows proudly provides the very best in senior living with our 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.

Are You Looking for Senior Living in the Denver Area?

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 communities in the Denver area, 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 your 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 another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care.  The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.  

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer all of that and more with our wide range of services and amenities.  Our community is conveniently located in the heart of Wheat Ridge, a northern suburb of Denver, and we offer a choice of 45 private assisted living suites with spacious floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Contact us or visit our website to learn what makes our community special and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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.

Receive the Care You Need at MorningStar of Littleton

Does your elderly mom or dad dismiss the idea of assisted living fearing it would end their independence and life as they know it? Do they think assisted living homes are more like nursing homes of the past? We want to reassure you and your senior loved one that assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Littleton are not a nursing home. In fact, we do not offer skilled nursing services but rather provide assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), along with engaging activities and other services intended to improve and enhance quality of life.  

It is important to a senior’s overall health that they receive proper care as the website Aging.com reports, “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.” In fact, studies show seniors getting assistance with the ADLs allows them to feel like they are in control of their life again and helps them regain a sense of self-worth and purpose. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, we know seniors have a lot to offer and the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon this truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Our community offers 65 graciously appointed suites for assisted living. Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 20 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. As part of our mission statement includes “valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals”, we are committed to creating a community promoting a healthy, engaged lifestyle, and providing security and independence. 

In addition, we offer respite care for those recovering from surgery or an illness, as well as short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. For trusted senior living Littleton, CO seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

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

The Role Diet Plays in the Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Several studies are showing links to our dietary habits and our risk for Alzheimer’s disease.  The Mayo Clinic reports that a hybrid of two diets, the DASH diet that helps reduce high blood pressure and the Mediterranean diet that improves heart health, may protect our brain health.   

Known as the "MIND" diet, which is short for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, the diet consists of lots of natural plant-based foods while limiting red meat, saturated fat and sugar.  Based on observational studies, research suggests that following the MIND diet can “reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by up to 53 percent as well as slow cognitive decline and improve verbal memory.”

One category of food at the top of the list is green leafy vegetables with a recommendation of at least six servings a week in dishes such as salads.  The diet also includes one serving of other vegetables daily.  MIND’s primary fruit is to eat berries at least twice a week.  Red meat is reduced to less than four times a week, cheese to less than one serving per week, while poultry and fish consumed twice or once a week respectively.  Other recommended proteins include nuts and beans.  

Oil should be mainly from olive oil and butter or margarine reduced to less than a tablespoon a day; and fried or fast food eaten less than once a week.  MIND includes a glass of wine a day but limits pastries and sweets to less than five times a week.   The Mayo Clinic says study results also found you do not have to strictly follow the diet to gain benefits.  For example, “adults in the study who followed the diet most closely (an average score of 9.6 points out of 15) saw the biggest drop in their Alzheimer's risk, the ones who scored in the middle (7.5 points) still cut their risk by over a third.” 

At MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, our many services and amenities include 5-Star dining.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest, healthiest ingredients.  In addition, our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage. Our beautiful home offers suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has secure suites devoted to specialized Alzheimer’s care for residents with memory impairment. Please contact us for more information.

 MorningStar of Littleton proudly provides the very best in assisted living and Alzheimer’s 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 has to offer.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/15-simple-diet-tweaks-cut-alzheimers-risk/art-20342112

Learning a New Skill May Offer Benefits to the Aging Brain

Research indicates we may be able to promote brain health by engaging in challenging cognitive activities like learning a new skill at an older age. The University of Texas studied the benefits for older adults who pursued cognitively engaging activities later in life.

The study consisted of 221 participants ranging in ages from 60 to 90, with an average age of 72 to try and determine what type of activities offered the greatest benefit to aging brains. Participants were divided into 6 groups with three taking part in what researchers labeled “productive cognitive engagement” involving active learning. Activities included learning photography and how to edit photos on the computer, quilting on a computer-driven sewing machine or doing both photography and quilting.

Two other groups were assigned to what researchers referred to as the ‘receptive engagement conditions,’ and neither involved learning new things or engaging in unfamiliar intellectual activities. Rather people were put into a social club where they mainly did familiar activities or were asked to read informative material and watch documentaries. All performed their tasks for 15 hours per week for 14 weeks. The sixth group was the control group and did not change their activity patterns.

Researchers compared participants at the end of the study and found those who did productive cognitive engagement had significantly more improvement in episodic memory. They explain episodic memory is our memory of past events and has been found to be the type of memory most impacted by aging. The study suggests “memory improvement need not come from brain games or memory drills, but can also come from learning a challenging new skill.”

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our stylish suites come in a range of floors plans including studio, one-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations. Amenities include Executive Chef-inspired meals, restaurant-style dining, fitness room, salon, chapel/theater, sunroom, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually engaged. For more information on the finest senior living in the Des Moines area, please visit our website.

We proudly provide the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

Source: matherinstitute.com/2015/06/29/late-life-learning-what-are-the-brain-benefits/

Being Lonely Takes a Toll on Seniors

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost one-third of all seniors live by themselves. In terms of numbers, that’s an estimated 13.8 million seniors. Experts say living alone doesn’t necessarily mean an individual is lonely but it often is the case. Not to mention, the pandemic certainly made matters worse as many seniors self-isolated from family and friends.   

Whatever the cause of loneliness, research shows it takes a toll on people. In fact, a study from Brigham Young University reports loneliness can be as deadly as smoking or obesity. Study authors explain senior isolation “may complicate existing conditions, encourage an unhealthy lifestyle, and affect cognition.”

The American Psychiatric Association says seniors who report feelings of loneliness are more susceptible to depression and poor health habits including excessive drinking, smoking and lack of exercise. Research from the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging found the “risk of Alzheimer’s nearly doubled in lonely adults, and mental decline was faster.”

Senior living communities like MorningStar of Littleton provide residents a lifestyle that focuses on wellness, comfort and community. Along with extensive care services, we offer a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connectivity. Programs range from physical exercise classes to art classes, trivia and card games, bingo, clubs and more. We tell residents if we do not offer something you wish to pursue, start a club and encourage others to join.

Assisted living residents receive a range of services such as 24/7 care managers, certified med care managers and scheduled health & wellness evaluations. A licensed nurse is onsite during week days and on-call 24/7. Furthermore, MorningStar helps families arrange auxiliary care services to deal with other health concerns on an as needed basis. 

We believe every moment you are alive is an opportunity to grow, set new goals, dream new dreams, and do better. MorningStar is committed to excellence and helping seniors have better lives. Visit our website for more information on trusted senior living in Littleton, CO. 

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 has to offer.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/senior-isolation-facts

Does Your Parent Need More Care?

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life. Moreover, we recognize that assisted living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive. We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities. In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff.

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions. Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information. A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab. Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene. From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services. We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences. In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Des Moines – West Des Moines has to offer.

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.

Encourage Seniors with Dementia to Stay as Active and Engaged as Possible

It is important for family members and caregivers to remember that while a person with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease may be declining cognitively, they still have some abilities. Encouraging them to stay involved in meaningful activities is a good way to give them a sense of self-worth and purpose. In fact, a published report from the National Institute of Health states, “engaging older persons with dementia in appropriate activities has been shown to yield beneficial effects such as increasing positive emotions, improving activities of daily living (ADL) and improving the quality of life.” It goes on to say it is important for those with dementia to stay as active and engaged as possible and that “it may even help to maintain quality of life in the more advanced stages of the disease.”

As to what kinds of activities are the most effective, studies suggest trying to stimulate all five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell; and the creative arts are a good place to start. Singing is not only enjoyable but several studies have shown it to be one of the last abilities many of those with Alzheimer’s lose. People can often remember the words to a song long after many other memories are gone. Listening to music and dancing are other activities beneficial to those with dementia. Dancing has even been shown to help stimulate social interaction, enhance mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-awareness and self-expression. Walking and getting outside can also lift spirits, but as gait can be adversely affected by Alzheimer’s, evaluate the person’s ability to walk safely.

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our goal is to provide the best senior living Des Moines -West Des Moines has to offer, which includes compassionate memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood. Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation. Each day is filled with activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents.

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, and an enclosed, secure courtyard. Our memory care suites accommodate a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they are sure to feel right at home. Please visit our website to learn more our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living 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: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684326

What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?

If you or a loved one is experiencing some mild memory problems or were recently diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), you may find yourself wondering what that means for the future.  MCI is defined as the fine line between what we think of as normal memory or thinking and dementia.  Dr. Scott M. McGinnis, an associate neurologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, clarifies it by explaining, “We diagnose dementia when a person has changes in memory and thinking that significantly interfere with functioning in usual activities.” He cites examples such as getting lost driving to familiar places or having difficulty writing a check.  

MCI is diagnosed when a person has changes in their memory and thinking that goes beyond normal aging but does not qualify as full-blown dementia.  Medical experts explain that MCI may be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease but are also quick to add that not all cases of MCI result in Alzheimer’s but rather may increase the person’s risk.  In fact, MCI is caused by other things including medications and infections.  

Doctors suggest one way to cope with MCI is to get into the habit of writing out a list of “to do’s” each day and checking it throughout the day.  Some people want to know more and thus pursue medical tests that can identify if they will develop Alzheimer’s eventually, while others wish to take a more wait and see approach.  Whatever your decision, medical professionals say it may be helpful to learn as much as you can about MCI as a way to help you cope.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  As dementia care specialists, we consider it our calling, and privilege to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving senior living community.

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.

A Robotic Pet is a Soothing Companion for Those with Alzheimer’s Disease

If mom or dad or another loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, we have a gift idea sure to bring a smile to their face. Robotic pets are soothing companions to those in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s; and a proven resource for providing a means for social interactions as well as stirring memories of when they felt useful. Furthermore, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease reports “robots helped decrease stress and anxiety and also caused a reduction in the use of psychoactive medications and pain medications for patients with dementia.”

A robotic pet allows a person to feel like they are providing care for someone – not always on the receiving end of it. However, dementia experts caution the “pet” should be introduced slowly to the person so as not to overwhelm them with feelings of too much responsibility. The Alzheimer’s Association explains it is best to introduce pet or doll therapy in a controlled atmosphere. They add when you let the person take responsibility rather than giving them the doll to play with, it can bring structure to their lives. Experts say people not verbalizing anymore may start to initiate speech as it is natural to murmur comforting words. 

A robotic pet can also be a distraction when the person is starting to get agitated or upset and encourages hugs and kisses. Many of the robotic dogs or cats on the market are loaded with realistic actions including barking or purring and tail wagging, and some even respond to the person’s motions, voice and touch. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, our mission is to provide the best senior living Littleton, CO offers, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We support both residents and their families by providing the services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our unique philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky. and we use a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques to walk alongside residents during this unexpected, difficult journey. Please visit our website for contact 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 for more information about the finest senior living Littleton, CO has to offer.

Source: medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-therapy-pets-alzheimer-patients-nowbut.html

MorningStar at Mountain Shadow’s Reflections Neighborhood

We understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia related disease is devastating and we want area families to know we are here to help shoulder the burden. As experienced specialists in caring for those with memory loss, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. We are different from other communities in that every aspect of our memory care is designed from the ground up to accommodate residents. Secure and inviting, our Reflections Neighborhood gives residents as much freedom as possible.

Through the rigors of MorningStar’s Lavender Sky training, our staff truly understands Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-loss conditions; and after a family decides to place a loved one in our care, we get to work. This starts by learning as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and personal preferences through a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” Using this information, we create a specialized, individualized care plan that helps to calm or stimulate as a particular situation needs.

Meals are attractively served, and tasty as well as nutritional. Many foods are easily eaten with fingers to accommodate those who may have trouble using a fork and knife. In addition, our wellness programs keep residents purposefully engaged and leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort, as we focus on residents’ unique needs.

Along with memory care, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers assisted living as well as respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month). Please visit our website for further information, and to inquiry about pricing and availability.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows proudly provides the very best in senior living with our 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.

Exercise is Beneficial Regardless of Your Age and Health Limitations

Research has shown over and over again that physical exercise is beneficial to older adults regardless of their age and health limitations.  If you are an older adult who is already physically active, you may be helping to “prevent problems like a lower maximum heart rate, reduced muscle mass, bone loss, stiffened tendons and ligaments, and some joint or nerve problems.”  Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

If you are an older adult with some health limitations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Heart Association offer some useful tips for safely benefiting from physical activity.  Just remember, before you start any new exercise regimen, consult with your health care provider.  Also while you may not be able to attain the recommended 150 minutes a week, experts say you should try to engage in as much physical activity as you can.  

Adjust the intensity of your physical activity to your fitness level, and find activities you can do all year round and enjoy.  Walking is considered to be a good exercise for older adults as it can easily be adjusted to one’s fitness level by adjusting the length of the walk and pace.  Also remember to wear comfortable clothing as well as properly fitting footwear.  Walking with someone makes good sense for safety reasons and provides companionship.  

For seniors at risk of falling, it is important to do exercises to improve your balance.  Most of the recommended exercises are easy-to-do at home and can be done daily.  You will want to start any new activity slowly and increase your progress gradually.  Another thing to remember is to drink plenty of water throughout the day and during your exercise activity.  Keep in mind that as we age our thirst sensation diminishes, and by the time you feel thirsty, you may already be partially dehydrated.     

At MorningStar of Littleton, we provide seniors carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Beautifully designed to meet our residents’ every need, MorningStar offers a range of wellness programs and activities to engage and support physical, intellectual, social and spiritual connection.  Please visit our website for more information about assisted living and memory care in Littleton, CO.

Please contact your healthcare provider before you start, change, or stop any type of physical activity or exercise.

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.

Source:secondscount.org/heart-resources/heart-resources-detail?cid=8ad2d089-64a5-4d99-940d-818a250c91a4#.YNTcjUxlCM8

Learn More About MorningStar Senior Living

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Littleton is one of six MorningStar communities in the Denver area.

MorningStar was started in 2003 based on a unique mission statements, principles and philosophy.  As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains his intention was to create senior living that was “defined by the human touch. I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” 

Out of this vision, came mission statements that still guide the way we deliver service to our residents:  Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.  Even the name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contemplation of the bible and his commitment to relieve poverty around the world.  

However, while founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition; please know that we welcome and honor all faiths and worldviews in our communities, and are committed to meeting not only residents’ social, emotional, and physical needs but their spiritual ones.  In our pursuit of creating a loving home, honoring spiritual preferences is part of caring for the whole person. 

In addition, we recognize our mission is advanced by hiring team members who hold true to our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors and help us create the kind of culture we envision building – a Family for Life.   

Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years.    If you are looking for the best senior living Littleton, CO has to offer, we encourage you to visit our website to learn more.

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.

Looking for Trusted Memory Care in the Des Moines Area?

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our mission is to provide the best senior living Des Moines–West Des Moines offers, which includes compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. Our caring, professional team has a good understanding of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and takes a holistic approach to providing for our most tender residents.

MorningStar’s memory care is situated in a separate area we call our “Reflections Neighborhood” and is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease. The expansive area houses 29 secure suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings.

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. 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 at Jordan Creek 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 contact us or visit our website to learn more.

We proudly provide 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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

Assisted Living May be a Healthier Lifestyle for Mom or Dad

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities. This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into assisted living. However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to look into alternatives.

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone. They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others. In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs. Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections.

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parent will have their basic needs met seamlessly. Lastly, something often overlooked regarding assisted living is that with the proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back. Also by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s goal is to provide the best assisted living Des Moines-West Des Moines has to offer. Options include 56 assisted living private suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one and two-bedroom floor plans. In our Reflections Neighborhood, devoted to caring for seniors suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we have 29 secure suites. Please see our website for more information.

We proudly provide 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. If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Care Services – A Holistic View of Health

For exceptional assisted living, Des Moines area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek, a true destination for successful aging. By defining health and well-being holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit. Together our Life Enrichment programs and Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care.

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health. These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.

We are also proud that our assisted living residents’ benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand. It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.

Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director. Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR trained staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7. MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management. Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as pharmacy services, onsite dental and podiatry services and more.

Please contact us for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour. Our community includes 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.

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.

MorningStar of Littleton’s Compassionate Memory Care

MorningStar of Littleton’s goal is to provide the best senior living Littleton CO offers, which includes compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  We understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of a dementia disease.  The path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey. 

In addition to MorningStar of Littleton’s assisted living option, our Reflections Neighborhood consists of 20 secure memory care suites.  The area is specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to move safely about their spacious surroundings.  Also, given the nature of dementia, residents pay one price for their suite and their care regardless of the level of memory loss.  

As dementia care experts, our unique approach and philosophy to caring for those afflicted with the disease is called “Lavender Sky.”  We know the essence of the person remains despite the level of memory loss, and our job is to nurture and support the individual by finding ways to calm or stimulate as the situation demands.  Lavender Sky provides the path for us to enter, embrace, and explore the “purple world” of memory loss, and to cross over the physical, emotional, and relational boundaries that would otherwise separate us.    

Every aspect of our home is designed to provide the comfort, wellness and safety our special residents require including mealtime.  We know those suffering from memory loss can sometimes have compromised abilities at the table.  We address this by providing a selection of finger foods, texture-modified diets (mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids), and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. Please see our website or contact us for more information.

MorningStar of Littleton provides 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 has to offer.

Does Mom or Dad Need Help with the Activities of Daily Living?

Sometimes it is obvious an elderly parent needs more care such as having a bad fall or mismanaging medications resulting in a trip to the emergency room. Experts say even without such an overt situation, there are signs to look for suggesting a parent or another loved one may do better in an assisted living community.

Warning signs include changes in the person’s behavior. For example, if mom has always been tidy but her home now looks neglected or smells, and dirty dishes are piled in the sink, she may not be handling things well. Other signs include a recent weight loss or gain and changes in grooming habits. Take note if she is having mobility problems or unexplained bruises or cuts, which might indicate she is falling.

Experts say consider other things too, such as social isolation and the person’s inability to get around on their own if they no longer drive. Also, check the refrigerator for signs of spoiled food or a lack of food.

Even a few of these things may be a sign they could benefit from the services of an assisted living community like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, a true home with an atmosphere of love, kindness and compassion. Along with a broad range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and wellness programs, our private suites come in a choice of floorplans including studio and one- and two-bedroom configurations.

Care services include 24/7 Care Managers, Certified Medication Managers, Licensed Nurses, routine health monitoring, and much more. In addition, residents enjoy delicious meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef that feature the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, served restaurant style in our lovely dining room. For more information about MorningStar’s assisted living in Colorado Springs, please call us or visit our website.

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.

Learn More About MorningStar’s Community in Wheat Ridge, CO

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge provides assisted living residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Our residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out and include a fireplace patio and porches, library, chapel/theatre, bistro, salon and fitness room.  Delicious meals prepared by our Executive Chef are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room.

However, our stylish design does not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including lots of lighting, high ceilings, and large windows as well a kitchenette with refrigerator. For residents’ peace of mind and safety, our suites are also equipped with an emergency call system to ensure help is there if the need arises as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  

All assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with the Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more). Access to a licensed nurse is available onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock.  We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically re-evaluate care plans and make changes as needed.   

Other clinical care services provided by MorningStar include mechanical lift assistance, diabetic management, oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care and more.  We provide scheduled physician visits, a choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.  

At the heart of our community, and what we are most proud of, is our team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve.  Please visit our website for more information about exceptional assisted living or memory care at MorningStar.

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.