How to Make Assisted Living More Comfortable

December 25, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

The transition to assisted living can be difficult for a lot of seniors and their loved ones. Many seniors lived in their own homes for many years. While the change can be difficult, there are some creative and trusted ways to make a new assisted living home more comfortable for seniors.

If your loved one is having a difficult time adjusting to senior living, or you just want to make their move more comfortable, consider these ideas below to help your loved one feel at home in their assisted living community.

Personalize Your Assisted Living Space

All-inclusive assisted living communities that offer unfurnished living spaces are a great example of how you can easily make your senior living apartment more comfortable. Make sure to pack your loved one’s favorite things and decorate the new home similar to how they once had. Showcasing beloved family memories and knickknacks is another way to make the space feel more homey.

Create a Calming Assisted Living Environment

When decorating your new assisted living space, think about what things are most calming to your loved one. This may mean finding a color pallet that they enjoy that brings them peace. Or adorning the apartment with items for a specific theme that you know they love. Decorative throw blankets, pillows, plants and wall decorations are great ways to tie a home together and help your loved one acclimate. There’s a lot of space to be creative when designing your assisted living apartment.

Attend Events

Likely, your loved one will not know anyone in their senior living community once they first move in. This may induce anxiety, making it more difficult for your loved one to venture out and meet their neighbors. To help get them out of their rooms, offer to attend events and activities with them. Having someone they love and trust by their side will help give them the confidence to explore new things and meet their community.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

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, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline With a Healthy Diet

December 22, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease, and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite early studies showing MIND lowered the “risk of Alzheimer’s by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely.” In 2018, the MIND diet recommendation was expanded to include older adults who have suffered a stroke.

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy.

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia.

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer assisted living residents a healthy engaged lifestyle with luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our five-star dining experience features seasonal menus with the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible.

Meals at MorningStar include a variety of nutritional choices to allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options. Our chef also uses 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. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

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.

Tips on Transitioning to Alzheimer’s Care

December 22, 2023 by Quinn A in Alzheimer’s care

If your parents, loved one or spouse are managing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, there may come a day when they require more care and attention than you can give. Seeking out alternative care options is an empathetic and selfless choice to make for your loved one struggling with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Making the transition to Alzheimer’s, or Memory Care, is difficult for everyone involved. We understand the grief associated with moving a parent or loved one and relying on someone else to be there the same way you would. Trusted memory care communities give seniors aged 55 and up a new way of living that encourages their independence and promotes safety. Below are some practical tips to make the transition to Alzheimer’s care easy and seamless.

Preparing for the transition to memory care

Communicate

As your loved one’s dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms have expanded, you may find it more difficult to communicate openly with them. While communication methods may have changed, your loved one still wants to feel involved in the process of moving to memory care. This will be a big adjustment for them. Find time throughout the process to let them know what’s going on and how you will be with them every step of the way.

2. Downsize

Throughout the years, we gather a lot of things we love and cherish. It is likely your loved one has a whole home full of things that you can’t imagine them parting with. While it may be difficult, downsizing will ease your loved one into their memory care transition. They won’t be able to take everything with them so having them decide on some of the most important things to take with them will make them feel involved in their transition to memory care.

3. Practice self-care

A memory loss diagnosis is tough for everyone. It changes a family’s way of life. While you are planning your loved one’s move into memory care, remember to be kind to yourself and understand that you are making the right choice for your loved one and their situation. Among many benefits, memory care communities have up-to-date safety regulations, healthy meals and 24/7 supervision from specialized caretakers.

Finding Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Made Easy

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.

Contact our staff today to learn more about MorningStar's memory care communities in Littleton. We are happy to answer any questions. 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 our exceptional independent and assisted living offering in Littleton, Colorado.

How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community

December 22, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

It’s hard to come to terms with the fact your parent or loved one requires assisted living care. You want to provide them with the best living situation possible, but you may not be able to accommodate them now. You may have your own family, live far away, or just lack the necessary space or resources. It’s important to not feel shame for this and know that there are senior living communities that accommodate this very situation.

Assisted living communities prioritize the needs of seniors who require extra help with daily living. All-inclusive assisted living homes offer seniors great benefits that encourage them to be social and active. But with all the senior living choices near you, it may be hard to pick the right one for you and your loved one. This quick guide will help you choose the right assisted living community.

Things to Consider When Looking for Assisted Living

Assisted Living Amenities

While most senior living communities offer amenities for seniors to enjoy, it’s good to take into account what amenities your loved one would use. For many seniors in assisted living, having access to a hair salon, bistro, movie theatre, gym and walking trails makes living life easier and more enjoyable.

Level of Care

What level of care does your loved one require? Needs vary for many seniors in assisted living and it’s important to know that your senior living community can accommodate you. Senior living communities with personalized care plans make it easy to ensure that your loved one is getting the correct level of care and that their needs can still be met later on if things change.

Safety and Security

Seniors need a home that makes them feel safe and valued. When looking for assisted living care, find senior living management that is accessible, friendly and professional. They should value your time and work tirelessly to make your loved one feel at home.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

Get the Care You Need at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

December 20, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

For outstanding assisted living, seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely. By defining health and wellbeing 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 another 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 five 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 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 have partnered with EmpowerMe Wellness. They provide on-site access to wellness programs, personal training and physical, occupational and speech therapy services to help residents maintain their highest level of independence for as long as possible.

Please contact us or visit our website for more information. Our community includes 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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 to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Patients Most Satisfied With Their Healthcare Engaged in Self-Advocacy

December 18, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude.

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ office or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume.

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask.

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.

For outstanding memory care or assisted living, Colorado Springs area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Our beautiful home provides a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or see our website 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.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

Are Memory Problems Interfering With Your Life?

December 15, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

Do you feel as if memory problems are interfering with your life or have family members started to notice? Medical experts say there may be a distinction between a person noticing memory loss and others becoming aware of it as this could signal a bigger problem and be an early sign of dementia.

The Harvard Medical School explains the best place to start understanding the problem is to talk to your doctor. While they may not have the proper training to do extensive screening for MCI (mild cognitive impairment), they can rule out other things causing your memory loss such as medications you take or a recent head injury. Steps you can take on your own to improve cognitive function include getting enough sleep each night, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

After your own physician has completed an examination, and nothing appears to explain your memory loss, it is time to see a specialist. They, or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter or hospital should be able to recommend a behavioral neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. He or she will probably start with a series of written, on the computer, or oral tests to “assess memory, reasoning, attention, language, visual functions, motor functions, and social functions (such as empathy and knowing how to behave appropriately in social situations).”

They will check for “abnormalities in muscle strength, coordination, reflexes, senses, eye movement, and the pupils' reaction to light, which can signal abnormalities in specific areas of the brain.” In addition, the doctor will check for Parkinson’s, a stroke or tumors, and will probably schedule a hearing and vision test. If indicated, you may have advanced testing such as PET scans or your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers checked for signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows has suites devoted to the individualized care of those with mild to advanced memory impairment. Our Reflections Neighborhood was designed to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. Ourspecialized memory careincludes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life. Please visit our website to learn more aboutMorningStar’s senior living in Colorado Springsand all the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.

MorningStar’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 the finest assisted living andmemory care in Colorado Springs. Please contact us for more information about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/mild-cognitive-impairment

Advance Care Planning Ensures Your Wishes are Known

December 13, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living Communities

An advanced directive is a legal document giving you a voice involving medical decisions in the event you are incapacitated. Many people shy away from creating such documents as they fail to realize how important they are, and mistakenly worry they are signing away their lives, and/or don’t like thinking about being so ill they are unable to make decisions.

Advance care planning documents may include a living will, power of attorney and health care proxy. By planning ahead, they guide decisions made on your behalf if you are unable, and suffer from an incurable, irreversible illness, condition or disease determined to be terminal. Living wills specify the kind of medical treatment desired and many simply express the desire to not be given life-sustaining measures that only serve to prolong a person’s death. Specific details may regard care including the use of pain medications, antibiotics, hydration, feeding and the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or ventilators.

A health care proxy is someone designated to express your wishes for medical care and has the same rights you would in requesting or refusing treatment. A durable power of attorney document names a person to act on your behalf if you are incapacitated and gives them the power to make financial decisions.

The Harvard Medical School reports on some of the myths people have regarding advance care directives. They say you need to realize more care is not always better but can prolong the dying process without respect for quality of life or comfort. Refusing life support does not mean you are committing suicide but rather allowing your medical problem to be the cause of your death. Moreover, refusing life-extending treatment does not mean you are refusing comfort measures for pain management and symptoms. Talk to your family and doctor about your medical preferences, and be sure each has a copy of your advance directive documents.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is a senior living community in Colorado Springs. We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing. Our beautiful community offers 45 suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs. In addition, 19 secure suites are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.

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 luxury amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

The Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease

December 11, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, a person’s needs change and it is important to recognize and address those changes with appropriate care. Along with meeting basic needs, experts say care providers should treat the whole person by creating an environment that allows them to feel independent and safe. The Alzheimer’s Association says determining the best care options can be tough and offers some advice on how to ensure the person has the services, programs, and caregivers in place for the best possible quality of life.

The first step to any decision regarding care is to honestly evaluate your loved one’s needs. Also, to whatever degree possible, it is recommended you include them in any decisions. Another thing to remember is during the early stages of the disease the person may be able to live independently but in the middle stages, 24-hour supervision is needed. Additionally, around-the-clock care is much more demanding in the later and end stages.

Primary points to consider include safety, especially in terms of unsupervised cooking, or if the person has a tenacity to wander or needs help with medications. Does the person have medical conditions that need monitoring such as diabetes or a mobility issue? Other problems that may demand more professional care include a person becoming aggressive or needing help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). Finally, consider if the person would benefit from more social interactions and activities.

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers care to those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. The Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages their independence while keeping them safe. Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted 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 offers.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/care-options/choosing-care-providers

Snacks Should be a Balanced Addition to Your Daily Nutritional Intake

December 08, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

The goal of a snack should be to satisfy your hunger as well as be a balanced addition to your daily nutritional intake. Dietician Lisa Jones says satisfying snacks can be crunchy, creamy, savory or salty and good choices include things like eggs, tofu, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

As a guideline, an adult’s snack should contain approximately 150 to 250 calories. Experts advise diabetics to stick to protein-rich choices and to watch the amount of carbohydrates a food contains as carbs can elevate blood sugar. If you are eating pre-packaged food, check to see what constitutes a serving and the number of calories.

Remember healthy snacks can be tasty such as avocado on whole grain toast. For a fiber-rich snack, how about making chia pudding? The recipe is simple and all you need to do is add 3 tablespoons of chia seeds to a 6 oz. glass of seed-based milk. Add ½ cup fruit and refrigerate for a couple of hours. To get 80% of the daily folate and 50% of the manganese requirement, how about eating a cup of shelled edamame?

Other quick snacks include a handful of nuts and a piece of fruit, or a bowl of popcorn topped with a small amount of olive oil rather than butter. Cut-up veggies eaten plain or dipped in peanut butter or humus is another satisfying, healthy snack. Greek yogurt is loaded with calcium, probiotics and protein and can be added to fruit, a handful of nuts or even to tuna.

If you are looking for exceptional senior living in Colorado Springs, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is it. Our beautiful community provides assisted living, memory care, respite care and trial stays. MorningStar’s warm, loving environment provides care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities and wellness programs and activities. In addition, we are proud of our dining service, which includes meals made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients and superfoods. We invite you to visit our website for more information about our home and to inquire about availability and pricing, or to set up a tour.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/healthiest-snacks

Assisted Living Communities Meet Many Needs

December 06, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

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 an assisted living community. However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to consider 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 Mountain Shadows provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social wellbeing.

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parents will have their basic needs met seamlessly. One often overlooked benefit of assisted living is that with 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.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our carefree lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy precious retirement years. Our stylish suites are available in a range of floor plans and only require furnishings and personal items to make it feel like home. For residents’ safety, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury assisted living in Colorado Springs.

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 Colorado Springs offers.

Relive the Past With an Elderly Loved One

December 04, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

If an elderly parent or another loved one is in an assisted living community and has limited mobility, you may feel it is difficult to think of things to talk about or to do when you visit. Scrapbooking is an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Also, it can be more than just a means to pass the time and preserve memories for seniors but can be beneficial to them as well.

By organizing an activity such as scrapbooking, it can help to keep everyone engaged as well as inspire your loved one to start sharing stories about the “good old days.” As you start documenting their life story, it will likely bring back memories they may have forgotten and/or the rest of the family has never heard. Along with exercising the brain with recollections of the past, scrapbooking can boost self-esteem, improve one’s dexterity and increase socialization by introducing new topics of conversation.

To get started, visit your local craft store or shop on the Internet for scrapbooking supplies that will help you create a book that is uniquely your parent’s. Your next step is to help gather and organize the photos and materials in chronological order that will go into the scrapbook.

If the project seems too overwhelming for your parents, have them pick a theme such as family vacations or weddings through the years, or do one that focuses on their childhood and early years. Before you start to glue things in, take the time to layout the photos and mementos for each page; and most importantly, encourage and enjoy the stories and memories shared by your loved one.

If you are looking for assisted living in Colorado Springs, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Our community is designed to enhance the lives of our residents and provide a home where seniors can safely and comfortably age in place. Along with stylish suites and inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

The Difference Between Memory Care and 24-Hour Nursing

November 29, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

Nursing homes and senior living communities are not as similar as some might think. Memory care communities are focused on holistic treatment and socialization to comfort seniors as they age. Nursing homes tend to focus on a more clinical approach to Dementia management, which may look like more medications and more intense treatment.

While both have their benefits, it’s important to understand the difference between 24-hour nursing facilities and memory care at Senior Living in Littleton, Co.

What level of care can memory care facilities provide?

Memory care communities, like MorningStar, provide a high level of care for seniors struggling with memory loss. Since memory care communities are specifically designed to treat and watch over seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia, staff tends to be more specialized and undergo different training.

Depending on the level of care a senior requires, 24-hour nursing homes may be better suited to address certain concerns. If a loved one is struggling with multiple ailments, such as late-stage cancer and dementia, an on-call nurse may be more fit to provide care.

For treating certain medical concerns, MorningStar has a daily 24-hour nurse within Littleton’s senior living community. This provides reassurance to families of seniors who are accident-prone or require a moderate amount of daily medical care. Please see our Care Services page for a description of how widely we can serve under our Assisted Living license through the additional support of third-party providers.

Because MorningStar offers a higher level of supervision under a holistic memory care routine, this can appear more expensive than skilled nursing services. However, the level of care, amount of social activities, therapies, and dedicated caregivers at MorningStar are guaranteed to provide the support your loved one requires.

Finding Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Made Easy

3 Reasons Seniors Enjoy Companion Living

November 29, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Assisted Living can be an overwhelming experience for many seniors if they are making the trip alone. However, seniors can enjoy companion living with us at MorningStar Senior Living where close friends or couples can embark on this new journey together.

Companion living for seniors in assisted living is a great option if they need a little extra care and attention from those they trust. Within its communities, MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines offers Assisted Living with support at various levels and Around-the-clock Care Managers who are on-site and at the ready to ensure your comfort and safety. With that in mind, here are the top three reasons why seniors enjoy companion living at MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines.

Emotional Support- It can be hard to be vulnerable with people you don’t fully know or trust yet. Spousal living, or companion living, provides seniors with added emotional support as they adjust to assisted living care. Since these individuals have likely known each other for many years, couples feel safe to share worries and fears with each other. It is a valuable experience to provide your spouse comfort while embracing a new change together.

Affordability- We offer Companion Living in all of our communities, where spouses or two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite and thus split the costs of the apartment and utility costs.

Motivation- Family members, close friends, and spouses motivate and inspire us. If there are some changes a senior wants to make upon moving to assisted living, our close loved one can support and motivate us to achieve those goals and make changes. Whether it’s to eat healthier, explore a new hobby, complete a task, or make new friends, companion living allows individuals to feel motivated by their loved ones.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

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, and our website also provides information on our company's history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

Recognized Senior Living Communities Leading in Memory Care

November 27, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

Trusting an assisted living community for your elderly parent or loved one can be difficult, especially if they are in need of memory care. Depending on the needs of your loved one, you should consider several factors to find the best memory care.

MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co has been named “Alzheimer’s Association Leader in Dementia Care." You can find loyal memory care for your family in a community devoted to holistic Alzheimer’s and dementia treatment.

To be designated as a leader in dementia memory care, a senior living community is required to enroll 75% of its staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals.

Colorado is the only Alzheimer’s Association chapter in the country offering this special program. MorningStar of Littleton is proud to have earned this special recognition for our expertise in serving the memory impaired.

One aspect that sets MorningStar apart from other memory care communities is MorningStar’s signature philosophy and approach to dementia care. This holistic approach to memory care is described by the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky” where our ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore.

Embracing memory loss, as confusing as that may sound, is one step closer to better understanding memory loss as a whole. Under a “Lavender Sky,” we all practice stronger empathy and understanding towards our loved ones dealing with memory loss. The way our parents or family members once interacted with us and the world around them will begin to change. As they change, so too must our own communication and care towards them begin to change.

Finding Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Made Easy

What are the Benefits of Independent Senior Living?

November 27, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

If I don’t need any assistance, why should I consider a senior living community?

Retirement homes aren’t what you think they are anymore. Independent senior living offers vibrant communities full of resort-style amenities that allow seniors to retire in style. While many seniors may not require assisted living care yet, you can still appreciate the perks of stress-free retirement.

Our senior living retirement homes in Des Moines, Iowa offer seniors a fresh perspective on life. We want to provide you with the very best understanding of what benefits independent senior living can provide for you.

Newfound Friendships- As we age, it becomes more difficult for seniors to spend time with their friends and family. Senior living communities provide easy accessibility to your neighbors. With weekly activities, group hobbies, and community events, it’s easy to meet like-minded individuals that you feel like you’ve known all your life. While you may not require any senior care, independent living at MorningStar brings added joy and excitement to your retirement.

Exploring Passions- Maintaining a home, keeping up with daily chores, and running errands can often distract us from doing the things we enjoy. In independent living at Morningstar, you can explore your passions and find new hobbies you might never have thought of trying. Our community takes care of monotonous tasks so that you can devote more time to learning what brings you joy.

Staying Active- Independent senior living communities keep seniors active and engaged. Through community outings, workout classes, and easily accessible trails and courtyards, seniors are able to stay healthy and happy.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN COLORADO SPRINGS

November 27, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

When you think of Colorado, many images come to mind, but we bet most, if not all of the images involve some type of adventure. Between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the rich culture found in Colorado’s Wild West motif, adventure is the prevailing theme for the residents of our senior living facility in Colorado Springs.

Whether you join a group activity sponsored by MorningStar at Mountain Shadows or take an adventure with your family, let’s take a quick look at the top five things to do in Colorado Springs.

Pikes Peak

Piercing the upper layers of the atmosphere at more than 14,000 feet above sea level, Pikes Peak is the iconic natural wonder that dominates the Colorado landscape. Although you have four ways to ascend Pikes Peak, joining the “Pikes Peak or Bust” tour provides you with the most adventurous, up-close encounter with the towering mountain. For a more laid-back approach to viewing the mountain, we recommend taking a ride on the Broadmoor Manitou and Pike’s Peak Cog Railway.

Garden of the Gods

Nature’s ultimate playground is full of trails that run dozens of miles through dusty red rock formations that provide the perfect picture frame for Pikes Peak. You can explore this archeological wonderland on foot or pick up the speed of your journey by riding a Segway or open-air jeep. Horseback riding tours provide you with a much more intimate experience by taking you places where your feet might not be able to go.

United States Air Force Academy

As one of the four branches that constitute the American military, the United States Air Force Academy is located next to the Rampart Range north of Colorado Springs. Part of the sprawling campus is open to the public, including the more than 30,000-square-foot visitor center. This is where you can dive deep into the academy’s colorful history, as well as learn more about the life of an Air Force Academy cadet. Tours include a 21-minute film and a stop at a model of the visually stunning Cadet Chapel.

United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum

What better way to honor our Olympic heroes than building a museum located in downtown Colorado Springs? The museum incorporates advanced technology and interactive exhibits to tell the stories of our most celebrated Olympians and Paralympians. You can join a tour of the recently renovated Olympic Training Center to learn up close how our Olympic and Paralympic athletes prepare for competition on the world stage.

The Cave of the Winds

For sheer natural beauty, it is hard to top the visually stunning vistas presented by a tour of The Cave of the Winds. Once you leave the canyon ridge, you step into the chambers of one of the largest cave systems in the United States. After you get out of the cave system, you can enjoy competing in the Wind Walker Challenge Course, as well as take a ride on the Bat-A-Pult zipline. If you possess a brave enough soul, the Terror-Dactyl plunge drops you at a rate of 100 miles per hour over the edge of a cliff.

Experience the Best Colorado Springs Has to Offer

One of the keys to maintaining robust mental and physical health is to be active. At our senior living facility in Colorado Springs, CO, we strive to provide our residents with a wide variety of options to keep their bodies fit and their minds active. Learn more about the top things to do in Colorado Springs by scheduling a tour today of our assisted living facility.

What is Holistic Memory Care?

November 24, 2023 by Quinn A in Memory care

Traditional memory care options like medication or hospitalization are not always helpful for seniors struggling with Dementia. This path can lead to more anxiety, depression, and loud outbursts throughout the rest of the life.

Senior Living in Littleton Co offers holistic memory care for seniors and their families who are looking for an alternative to traditional dementia care.

Holistic memory care is rooted in the idea that those with Alzheimer’s can still live meaningful and fulfilling lives. A holistic approach to Alzheimer’s treatment is a group effort. If you are looking for effective memory care treatments, look for senior living communities that involve professional caretakers, doctors, family members, and of course, the individual with a memory loss diagnosis.

A holistic approach to dementia care includes providing whole-body health. This means considering the following things to promote overall happiness and well-being:

Environment- A senior’s home plays a major role in their health and management of a memory loss diagnosis. Comfortable living quarters with trusted and empathetic caregivers will make seniors feel more relaxed. Anxiety-inducing living situations can progress a memory loss diagnosis or make symptoms worse. Find comfortable senior living in Littleton Co where seniors can relax and be treated promptly and with respect.

Food and Nutrition- Many are aware that what we eat impacts our health in multiple ways. This is true for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Whole foods that are dense with nutrients, protein, and vitamins can help ease the negative effects of memory loss. Highly processed foods full of oils, sugars, and carbohydrates can cause discomfort and make symptoms of memory loss worse.

Communication and Social Activities- Just because communication between a senior with dementia has changed, doesn’t mean they don’t still need or want socialization. Social senior living communities that offer memory care for seniors improve multiple aspects of life and make seniors feel connected and valued.

Finding Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Made Easy

Understanding Elderly Respite Care

November 24, 2023 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

You may think of assisted living facilities as apartment complexes for seniors in need of intense care and support. While you can find trusted senior care in assisted living complexes, you can also experience short-term respite care.

Caretaking is a full-time job. We understand that you may need a break from time to time. Perhaps your loved one has undergone surgery that you are unable to tend to properly. Regardless, MorningStar offers respite care to provide support for families and seniors.

What is Respite Care?

Respite care offers short-term support for family members or caregivers supporting a senior loved one. We offer Short-term Stays of about 30 days or less, for those times when a senior's regular caregiver is unavailable or unable to provide care for any reason. These seniors in respite care will reside in a fully furnished room within our senior living community.

What are the Benefits of Respite Care?

Surgery Recovery- Respite stays are also ideal for any seniors who are recovering from surgery and need added care, attention, and support that they may not have access to at home. MorningStar offers the quiet quarters and attendance you need to fully recover.

Caregiver Support- While families and caregivers enjoy supporting their elderly loved ones, there are times when they are not able to provide the same level of care. If a caregiver is going on vacation, moving, welcoming a baby, or experiencing an illness themselves, respite stays at MorningStar’s Senior Living communities provide added help to these families.

Trying Out a Senior Care Facility- Respite stays at MorningStar allow curious seniors to experience our senior living facilities without any long-term commitment. During a respite stay, you get a full month to experience the amenities and activities MorningStar has to offer. From here, you can have a full picture of what senior retirement could look like at MorningStar.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a 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 with us at MorningStar.

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, and our website also provides information on our company's history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

4 WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS

November 24, 2023 by Quinn A in Senior Living

When you see the words “Winter” and “Colorado” in the same sentence, you probably envision snowy mountains and cold, blustery winds dominating the coldest season of the year. However, winter in Colorado, especially in southern Colorado, can be dominated by a weather phenomenon called chinook winds. These winds blow in from the west and then travel up the front range of the Rockies bringing with them drier and warmer air. Although snow and cold are a part of Colorado winters, you also can enjoy plenty of warm sunshine at our senior living center in Colorado Springs.

Winter is typically viewed as the season to stay home and read a good book. With winter here being a bit different than the winters experienced by other Americans, let’s look at four winter activities for seniors living at our assisted living facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Swimming

We are not talking about the type of swimming that you see on Television when a group of people dive into frigid cold water. No, we are talking about enjoying the best cardio exercise possible by doing laps at an indoor pool, such as the one that we have at our senior living facility. Swimming works out the heart, as well as is beneficial to maintaining vibrant mental health.

Start a Garden

You can grow vegetables during winter, except that you have to do it indoors. Indoor gardening has exploded as one of the most popular hobbies mostly due to the advanced technology used to cultivate vegetables. Several studies demonstrate the relaxing and fulfilling sensations experienced by gardening enthusiasts. It also serves a practical purpose by providing you with vegetables to incorporate into meals.

Play Board Games

On the days during winter when Mother Nature does not cooperate for you to participate in outdoor activities, many of our residents take advantage of the spacious entertainment center to interact over several types of board games. Whether your board game is chess, checkers, or even Monopoly, remaining socially active during winter is an effective strategy to wash away the seasonal blues.

Board games also do a great job of working out our memory and problem-solving muscles.

Get Involved in Group Activities

Another reason to live at our senior living facility in Colorado Springs is to get involved in group activities. Not a day goes by when there isn’t a group event or an outing planned for our residents. Whether you join a group that meets weekly or get involved in a one-time-only group tour, you can expect to remain active socially by participating in yoga and/or ballroom dancing classes, as well as working out physically by bowling in a league.

Stay Active in Winter at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

Seniors need to stay active to stave off age-related issues such as osteoarthritis and declining memory. Staying active in winter also keeps your mind off the biting cold weather that occasionally drops by in Colorado Springs, CO. At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we are proud to offer the most diverse, as well as the busiest, activities calendar of any other assisted living facility in Colorado Springs.

Our mission “to honor, to value, to invest” separates our senior living facility from other residences in the Colorado Springs area. Learn more about our activities calendar in winter by scheduling a tour today at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.