Good Nutrition is Especially Important for Seniors

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult. Also, their metabolism slows down so they need fewer calories than before. Therefore, the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is more important than ever.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier. They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road. Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy. It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados.

MorningStar Assisted Living& Memory Care at Mountain Shadows is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are full of fresh ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions. We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage. MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.

MorningStar’s stylish suites come in a range of floors plans including studio, one-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations. Amenities include a theater, fitness room, bistro, salon, strolling paths, resident garden beds, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. For trustedassisted living Colorado Springsseniors and their families can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more aboutthe finest assisted living Colorado Springshas to offer.

The Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

Many times, a move to assisted living is not only good for the senior but for the family as well. Mom or dad living alone, perhaps already experiencing a fall or another type of health emergency, is stressful for everybody involved. 

Senior living experts point out the benefits of receiving attentive senior care along with services like nutritional meals, access to meaningful programs and transportation to and from appointments. At communities like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we sit down with in-coming residents to create a Personalized Service Plan designed to help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), which include things like bathing, grooming, transferring (such as from bed to a wheelchair), feeding and toileting. 

Dee Pekruhn, director of life plan communities’ services and policy for LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services, says, “Whether they stand alone or are part of a larger continuing care campus, assisted living communities offer a wide variety of community and social activities.” These typically include arts and crafts, physical exercise classes such as chair yoga, live concerts and other entertainment, and educational and technology classes. At MorningStar, we tell our residents if we don’t already have a class addressing one of your interests, to start one. 

Special outings and trips are another component of many assisted living communities including MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Bus trips to local points of interest, shopping or cultural events are just some of the activities enjoyed by residents.  

Another important service is medication management as statistics show the average older adult takes four or more prescription drugs each day, and as high as 39 percent of seniors take five or more. Medical management ensures seniors take the proper medication they need when they need it. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is proud to offer exceptional senior living in Colorado Springs with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our community offers 45 private assisted living suites and 19 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Contact us for more information and to schedule a tour.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Source: health.usnews.com/best-assisted-living/slideshows/how-assisted-living-improves-quality-of-life?

Seniors Can Improve Their Health With Increased Socialization

A UCSF Division of Geriatrics study found 43 percent of seniors report regularly experiencing loneliness. Mayo clinic psychologist, Dr. Craig Sawchuk, Ph.D., explains why this can be a problem. He says as “social animals by nature; we tend to function better when we’re in a community setting and being around others.”
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Several studies report a link between social isolation and an increased risk of disease, including one from the Academy of Science, which found loneliness can lead to higher rates of poor physical and mental health. Health concerns for isolated adults include hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease.

It becomes harder for seniors who live alone to socialize as they get into their upper 70s or 80s as many stop driving and/or suffer from chronic health problems affecting their mobility. Other contributing issues to loneliness in the elderly may include the death of a spouse or close family members and friends.

To emphasize how important socialization is for older adults, the American Public Health Association explains the most effective way for seniors to improve their health is to increase socialization. They report “socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise.”

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social connectivity. We provide everything seniors need for quality of life and to age in place safely and comfortably. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live fully productive lives.

In addition to memory care and assisted living, Colorado Spring’s MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (up to a full month) so you can see if we are a good fit. Please contact us today for more information about outstanding senior living at MorningStar.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source: seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/the-mental-health-benefits-of-socializing-for-seniors/

MorningStar’s Holistic Memory Care in Colorado Springs

Along with assisted living, Colorado Spring’s MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of dementia brings with it and wish to share the burden.
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MorningStar's comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed.

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities connect with and nurture the individual, whatever the level of memory loss may be.

Another thing that makes MorningStar at Mountain Shadows a special place is our devoted, hard-working 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. Our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve. Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

A Living Will Ensures You Get the Care You Want

Many times people put off creating a living will, also known as a health care power of attorney, because they don’t understand how important it is to have one; or they fear they are giving up too much control over their life. The medical community explains the reason you need one is to ensure you get the type of care you want when you can no longer speak for yourself.
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The Harvard Medical School says before you create a living will there are a few things to consider including separating fact from fiction. To start with, think about what quality of life means to you. Sometimes having extraordinary measures taken to save your life doesn’t factor in where such treatments will leave you. Having a living will can help guide your medical team on just such decisions.

Some people worry if they choose to refuse certain life-sustaining medical treatments to prolong life even when death is inevitable that it will invalidate their life insurance policy. Medical professionals explain there is no reason to worry as the recorded cause of death will be from the person’s underlying medication condition. Another common concern is if medical treatment is started, it can’t be stopped. This too is not true as treatment plans can always be updated and revised to address current circumstances.

Medical professionals want patients to know treatment can be started or stopped. Even if you refuse certain life sustaining treatments, it does not mean you won’t get other types of treatment such as intensive comfort care to help manage pain and symptoms.

Seniors especially should be aware a recent new directive has pretty much replaced a DNR (do not resuscitate), which only gives EMS permission to not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) can include a DNR as well as provide more instruction regarding medical interventions such as intubation, antibiotic use and feeding tubes. Talk to your medical provider to learn more.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we offer residents carefree retirement years with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our all-day dining service includes healthy, delicious meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef.

Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and convenient to medical facilities and other services, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers 45 suites for assisted living in a variety of floorplans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has 19 secure suites devoted to specialized dementia care for residents with memory impairment.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Important Hip Fracture Prevention for Seniors

The risk of hip fractures becomes a growing concern for seniors and their loved ones. It’s hard to trust that your parents or loved one will be alright on their own at home or participating in routine chores or errands at an older age. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek in Des Moines, Iowa, we take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents with comprehensive safety measures implemented at MorningStar. From well-designed living spaces to personalized care plans and engaging physical activities, we are committed to preventing hip fractures and other injuries while creating a secure and active environment for our residents.

Falls are a common concern among family members who care for a senior parent or loved one. These accidents can have significant consequences on seniors’ health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injuries and hospitalizations among older adults. MorningStar prioritizes fall prevention as a fundamental aspect of resident safety in our senior living communities.

Our community features carefully designed living spaces that prioritize safety and accessibility. We ensure proper lighting, non-slip flooring, handrails in hallways and bathrooms, and clear pathways throughout the premises. These features contribute to a secure environment, minimizing the risk of falls and subsequent hip fractures.

Personalized care plans are a simple, yet progressive way to regularly ensure that residents are receiving the care and supervision they need. MorningStar Assisted Living and Senior Living in Des Moines offers the best staff for individualized care plans. These plans are tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each resident. Our dedicated team assesses residents regularly, identifying potential fall risks and developing personalized strategies to mitigate them. By addressing specific needs, such as mobility assistance or balance exercises, we enhance resident safety and reduce the likelihood of hip fractures.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Do not hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands. 

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

Intergenerational Programs are Proving Beneficial for Seniors in Memory Care

Intergenerational programs bring together seniors and younger generations, such as children or teenagers, to engage in activities and build relationships. These programs can involve storytelling, crafts, gardening, or shared hobbies. Intergenerational interactions provide seniors with a sense of purpose, foster social connections, and offer opportunities for meaningful engagement. At MorningStar of Littleton, we encourage this holistic memory care approach for seniors in Alzheimer’s care by welcoming senior’s family members regularly into our community in order to foster open communication that encourages memory building and recognition.

Storytelling and reading programs bring generations together in memory care facilities. These programs bring together seniors and children or teenagers for storytelling sessions or reading activities. Seniors can share their life experiences, personal stories, or favorite books with younger participants. This promotes social interaction, encourages communication, and creates a connection through the power of storytelling across generations. This activity is a great way to get everyone involved in our senior living communities. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, we are very excited about our community garden and the seniors that work hard to maintain it in our community. We like to encourage our resident’s family members to spend time with their loved ones in the garden to foster intergenerational communication. Gardening brings together seniors and younger individuals to cultivate plants, tend to a garden, or engage in nature-related activities. This allows for shared experiences, learning opportunities, and appreciation for the natural world. Gardening also provides a calming and therapeutic environment for individuals with memory impairments. 

Other volunteer programs are available to foster intergenerational communication at MorningStar. Intergenerational volunteer programs, such as skill sharing. Through skill-sharing programs, MorningStar residents have the opportunity to share, practice, and explore activities and skills with other people in the community. This involves workshops, classes, or mentoring individuals who are interested in learning a particular skill or hobby. Skill-sharing programs promote lifelong learning and create a vibrant and inclusive community.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior memory care in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.
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To learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Find Senior Living for Couples at MorningStar

As our loved ones age, their needs and desires may change, but the love and companionship they share with partners remain steadfast. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek in Des Moines, Iowa, we recognize the importance of preserving and nurturing the bond between couples in their senior years. That's why we offer the most exceptional senior living des moines has to offer for seniors with living options designed to cater to the unique needs of couples in senior living and assisted living arrangements.
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At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we provide couples with spacious and comfortable shared living accommodations. We offer 56 assisted living suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations with some as large as 820 square feet. Our thoughtfully designed apartments are carefully crafted to offer the perfect blend of privacy and togetherness. Suites are equipped with a kitchenette with a fridge; in-suite washer/dryer, full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms; 24-hour emergency call systems; and private heating and air conditioning. Couples at MorningStar enjoy the freedom of their own living space while still being able to spend quality time together in a warm and inviting environment.

One of the key benefits of senior living for couples at MorningStar is the ability to maintain individuality and independence safely. Our community offers a variety of engaging activities, events, and outings that encourage interaction and socialization. Individuals in a couple can expand their social circle, engage in stimulating conversations, and enjoy the companionship of like-minded peers outside of their relationship without worrying about the health or safety of their partner. Our community staff and caregivers are devoted to watching over our community and tailoring care to every individual. This way, individuals within a couple can explore different social avenues without watching over the other.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Do not hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IO.

If You’ve Ever Had Chicken Pox, You Can Get Shingles 6/4/2023 0 Comments

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk of getting shingles sometime in your life.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable.

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles.

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a washcloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our 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 memory care specialists, our community also provides suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

The Exciting Benefits of Brain Fitness Programs

Brain fitness programs are popular Alzheimer’s care therapy in senior living communities. These memory care activities focus on cognitive exercises and puzzles designed to maintain and improve cognitive abilities. These activities may include memory games, puzzles, trivia, and computer-based brain training exercises. Brain fitness programs promote mental agility, enhance memory function, and provide a fun and challenging way to engage seniors. Senior living communities like MorningStar of Littleton incorporate these brain fitness programs for seniors struggling with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diagnosis. 

Brain fitness therapy, also sometimes known as cognitive training, has shown promising benefits for seniors with Alzheimer's disease. This therapy offers a proactive approach to managing Alzheimer's disease by targeting cognitive abilities and providing a range of stimulating activities. It not only enhances cognitive function but also contributes to improved everyday functioning, confidence, social connections, and overall quality of life for seniors with Alzheimer's.

Memory games and puzzles are highly beneficial for seniors with Alzheimer's as they specifically target memory and cognitive abilities. Activities such as crosswords, Sudoku, word searches, and matching games can help stimulate the brain and improve memory recall. These games challenge individuals to focus, concentrate, and engage in problem-solving, which promotes mental agility and cognitive flexibility. Additionally, puzzles and memory games provide a sense of accomplishment when completed, boosting self-esteem and motivation.

Music therapy has shown remarkable benefits for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and memories, even in those with advanced cognitive decline. Engaging in music-related activities can enhance mood, reduce agitation, and promote cognitive stimulation. Singing songs, playing musical instruments, or listening to familiar tunes can trigger memories and evoke a sense of familiarity and joy. Incorporating rhythmic movements or dance into music sessions adds a physical component, stimulating different areas of the brain. Group music therapy sessions encourage social interaction and provide opportunities for shared experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior memory care in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

To learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Companion Living Available at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge recognizes that for some, assisted living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care.

Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split.

Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community. The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident socialization with the broader community, and having someone around who knows the ropes is always helpful. Also, you can look out for one another’s interests and most likely be the first one to notice a change in the other’s health or abilities. As we all know, when a friend is present, everything else suddenly feels that much better.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers residents an engaged lifestyle that includes a wide range of programs and activities as well as nutritional daily meals. Our many onsite amenities include a bistro, theatre/chapel, massage room, salon, fireside patio, and a fully equipped fitness room. If you are looking for a community with an exceptional care team along with amenities and services unmatched by other senior living communities, please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Are You Overwhelmed With Caregiver Responsibilities?

Being a caregiver for an elderly parent or another loved one can be stressful and over time your duties can increase to a point where it is more than you can handle. For your wellbeing and that of your parent’s, it is probably time to make a change. Today’s senior living communities offer a range of options including assisted living, designed to provide help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). This level of care allows the senior to regain their sense of independence; and for you, your time with mom or dad goes back to just enjoying being together.
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Assisted living communities like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offer residents much more than just comprehensive physical care. Residents enjoy a whole range of amenities and services as well as the opportunity to make new friends.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, once the family decides to entrust us with the care of their loved one, we do a thorough evaluation of the person's medical history, background and personal preferences. Then we create a care plan approved by you and your parents, which is also routinely updated to address any changes in care. Mom or dad will receive access to a full-time licensed nurse and a caring, responsive 24-hour staff. We also offer medication management services.

MorningStar’s stylish apartments come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. Amenities include a bistro, fitness room, salon, spa bath, theatre, chapel, fireside patio, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle.

Other services include scheduled transportation and onsite therapeutic services such as physical therapy and occupational therapy. Weekly housekeeping and daily trash removal keeps mom or dad’s suite spotless, and linen and laundry services keep life simple. A five-star meal service ensures your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need. For more information on the finest assisted living in Colorado Springs, please visit our website.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

The Benefits of Reminiscence Therapy for Alzheimer’s Care

Memory impairments pose significant challenges for seniors. Reminiscence therapy is a therapeutic approach that offers hope and respite for the difficulties that come with an Azheimer’s diagnosis. This powerful technique provides numerous benefits, especially for seniors facing memory difficulties. By tapping into the rich tapestry of their past experiences, reminiscence therapy helps individuals in Alzheimer’s care reconnect with cherished memories, stimulate cognitive functions, and enhance emotional well-being.
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Reminiscing about past events and experiences can help trigger memories that have felt stuck and stimulate recall in individuals with Alzheimer's. Even if recent memories are challenging to access, long-term memories from earlier stages of life may still be intact. Reminiscence therapy taps into these preserved memories, allowing individuals to connect with their personal history. At MorningStar of Littleton, our senior living community offers memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s in need of memory care therapy such as reminiscence therapy.

This memory care therapy often happens in a group setting or with family members promotes social interaction and strengthens relationships. Sharing memories, stories, and experiences can facilitate bonding and create a sense of belonging. For seniors with communication difficulties, reminiscence therapy also serves as a bridge for meaningful conversations with family members and loved ones. Discussing past events encourages verbal expression, improves communication skills, and enhances social engagement.

Engaging in reminiscence therapy can contribute to building cognitive reserve in seniors with Alzheimer’s. Cognitive reserve refers to the brain's ability to adapt and compensate for age-related changes or damage. By regularly exercising the brain through reminiscing, individuals may potentially delay cognitive decline and maintain cognitive function for longer. MorningStar’s memory care is dedicated to fostering a rich life for seniors in need of Alzheimer’s care.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior memory care in Littleton, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

To learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Helping Seniors Downsize for Assisted Living

Helping seniors downsize for assisted living is a sensitive and challenging process. Through the many years, our parents and loved ones have accumulated many special items that have sentimental value. If it is time to move into assisted living communities, you may be stressed and wondering how to downsize your loved one's many years of irreplaceable keepsakes. At MorningStar Senior Living in Jordan Creek, West Des Moines, Iowa, we understand the emotional and practical challenges involved in downsizing for seniors when moving to senior living or assisted living.
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When you and your family begin to consider assisted living, it's important to begin the downsizing conversation as early as possible with your parents or loved ones. Initiate this discussion with empathy and take the time to understand your loved one's concerns and preferences over what they want for their items. For this reason, MorningStar does offer 56 assisted living suites that we encourage seniors to fill with their own furniture and items from home. This helps seniors to feel like they are in a familiar and comfortable environment while they are adjusting to a senior living facility. At MorningStar, our caring staff will also be available to offer guidance and support throughout this process by working to make your loved one’s stay as easy as possible.

Downsizing can be an emotional process for seniors as they may be parting with cherished possessions or leaving a home they've lived in for a long time. Begin the downsizing process by decluttering and sorting your loved one's belongings with their supervision and permission. Encourage them to focus on items they truly need, cherish, or use regularly. Categorize belongings into three groups: keep, donate/sell, and discard. It will also be helpful to take breaks regularly and to check in with your loved one to ensure that they have not become overwhelmed or anxious. Remind them that they are not uprooting their life completely, but starting a new journey with like-minded individuals that are excited to meet them and create memories.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Do not hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IO.

Wandering Is a Big Risk for Those With Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander. The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home. Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.
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Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering. Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parents or another loved one. Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times. Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and trying to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out. In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out. You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers memory care in a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including an enclosed patio and courtyard. In addition, our dedicated staff is trained to keep residents engaged and safe. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar and our compassionate, loving memory care.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Sources:
alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering
agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm

MorningStar’s Trusted Memory Care in Colorado Springs

Are you the adult child or spouse of someone who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia? At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Mountain Shadows we understand the anguish and heartache that families go through seeing their beloved mom, dad, or spouse change before their eyes.
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If the diagnosis is recent, you are most likely wrestling with lots of questions including what the future will bring and who will be there to provide the level of care the person will probably need. We hear you and want you to know our experienced team is here to help with holistic memory care that focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss.

MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings.

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience.

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents. It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as solutions to challenging behaviors. For trusted memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs seniors and their families can count on, please contact us for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers

The Dining Experience at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

A move to senior living can mean a lot of changes for a person. Our job at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is to make sure that experience is full of positive changes. One of the things we feel showcases our home is an outstanding food service, which is under the direction of our own Executive Chef.

As an assisted living resident, you will be treated to a variety of seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible. You will also enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining in our beautifully designed, relaxing dining room. For those times you wish to have an intimate dinner with friends or family, go ahead and reserve our private dining room.

Our Chef is specifically trained in culinary skills and menu creations that appeal to seniors and knows how to modify recipes to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies as well as changing needs. A variety of nutritional choices allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options. We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.” These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Along with five-star dining, other amenities include a library, spa bath, fitness room, and a full-service salon. We also offer a bistro, as well as a theatre, chapel, resident garden beds, fireside patio, and more. And when you need to see your doctor or run an errand, we offer scheduled transportation.

While under our roof, residents have the opportunity to meet new friends and join a variety of wellness programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social connections. You will also have a team of dedicated, compassionate caregivers with a felt calling to serve who will go out of their way to meet your needs, even your unexpressed ones. Please visit our website to learn what sets our community apart from other assisted living Colorado Springs offers and why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.

Assisted Living is a Healthier, Safer Option for Many Seniors

A Place for Mom’s website, a free service that helps families in their senior care search, reports the various services offered at assisted living communities can make it a healthier, safer living option for many seniors. As services typically involve 24/7 care, nutritional meals and wellness programs, it means residents receive the kind of care required to enhance their quality of life.  

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Wheat Ridge provide the social connections necessary to seniors’ wellbeing as well as intellectual stimulation. The individual and their family get peace of mind knowing help is available when it is needed. Likewise, recent research shows assisted living communities may help seniors avoid falls as most are equipped with safety features such as handicap-accessible bathrooms and wheelchair accessible doorways. MorningStar’s emergency call systems in each suite also means immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers seniors assistance with another all-too common problem of medication mismanagement. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year about 350,000 people are hospitalized after visits to the emergency room because of adverse drug events. Medication errors are more likely in older adults as they often take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to treat different symptoms and health conditions. In some cases, these errors result in serious complications or even death. Our medication management service helps to avoid these problems and includes dispensing as well as ordering prescription drugs.

MorningStar’s comprehensive care starts with residents having an individualized plan created to address their specialized needs. It is frequently reviewed and updated as required. Our day-to-day care is intended to help residents maintain a healthier lifestyle with nutritional meals, exercise classes, and life enrichment programs designed for their needs. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior living at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Sources:
aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/
aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/medication-management

Balance Exercises Help Seniors Prevent Falls and Maintain Their Independence

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s statistics show that more than one in four Americans aged 65 years and older falls each year.  Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, and the number of falls will continue to increase as America’s baby boomers grow older.

While these are worrisome facts, experts say there are some simple exercises seniors can do to help prevent falls and maintain their independence. Remember a common injury caused by an elderly person falling is a hip fracture that can seriously impact their life.  

Most balance exercises are easy to learn and can be done anywhere.  The Mayo Clinic explains that while many exercises including walking can help maintain good balance, there are specific exercises targeted at improving a senior’s balance and stability.  They do caution however that if you have severe balance problems or an orthopedic condition, to get your doctor’s okay before starting balance exercises.

Examples of balance exercises include standing on one foot, walking heel to toe, back leg raises, and side leg raises.  To do the standing on one foot exercise, stand behind a sturdy chair; gripping for balance, lift one foot off the floor.  Hold for 10 seconds and then repeat with the opposite leg.  Repeat the exercise several times and increase the repetition as your strength increases.   

Walking heel to toe is done by positioning the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot.  Your heel and toes should be touching.  Now select a spot ahead of you and focus on it to help keep you steady as you walk.  Try to step forward for as many as 20 steps.  Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for other balance exercises.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we promote a healthy engaged lifestyle which includes an onsite fitness room and exercise classes to make it easy for residents to keep moving.  Our various enrichment activities and wellness programs are designed to enhance and support our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social connections.  Visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

This post is for informational purposes only.  Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercises.  

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/multimedia/balance-exercises/sls-20076853

Get Evaluated for Alzheimer’s Disease if You Suspect a Problem

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider. While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests. If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause. If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain that while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time. Also, they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit. In addition, research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait. Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care. The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows providesholistic memory carein our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior living andmemory care at MorningStar.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more aboutthe finest memory careand assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Source:alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked