MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Offers Comfort, Wellness, and Community

If you still think assisted living is an “old person’s home,” you could not be more mistaken. Today’s senior living communities are a far cry from old-fashioned facilities like nursing homes, and offer a vibrant lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. As a resident, you have opportunities to grow, learn and contribute. 

Skilled nursing facilities (SNF) had their beginnings decades ago as “nursing homes,” and in a time when there were few other options for senior care. Today SNF typically focuses on short-term rehab including helping patients discharged from the hospital after surgery or illness. SNF staff include RNs and CNAs, and specialize in serving residents in fragile and declining health. 

Assisted living is designed to assist residents with the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as toileting, dressing, and bathing. However, assisted living communities like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  MorningStar’s services help families by providing transportation to doctor appointments and other errands as well as onsite supportive services from third-party providers including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs.  

MorningStar’s services also include providing housekeeping to ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we help residents get the daily nutrition they need.  Moreover, meals are served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.  We also help with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications.  We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Colorado Springs.  Our beautiful community has 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  

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 in Colorado Springs.

Are You Taking a Medication Associated With an Increased Risk of a Fall?

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports millions of older adults fall each year—resulting in more than 36,000 deaths. Of those falls, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries; and one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. With these alarming statistics, experts say it is important for seniors to know their risk for a fall including whether they are taking medications associated with an increased risk. 

The first step is to talk to your doctor to see if you are taking one of these medications, as medications are a common reason for falls. Furthermore, experts say adjusting or making a change in medication is the easiest thing to do to help prevent a fall. If it is determined you are taking a medication known to cause light-headedness, dizziness, sudden drop in blood pressure, or chronically low blood pressure or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you and your healthcare team can regularly re-evaluate your need and dosage. 

Another way to mitigate your risk for a fall is to do exercises designed to improve leg strength and balance. In addition, be sure to get an annual eye exam and update your glasses as needed. Lastly check your home for trip hazards (keep clutter out of hallways and stairways) and install grab bars and better lighting where needed. 

For exceptional assisted living, Colorado Springs seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. At MorningStar we know your independence is important, and our goal is to help you maintain it as much as possible. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy your precious retirement years. Visit our website for more information, and if you have further questions, please give us a call and don’t forget to ask about our Move-in Specials.

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 Colorado Springs offers.

Sources: dailycaring.com/10-medications-that-cause-falls-use-with-caution/ 

cdc.gov/falls/index.html

As People Age, Depression Can Be Confused With Dementia

Experts report that as people age, dementia and depression are both common conditions and may be confused with one another. Additionally, one may lead to the other as depression is linked to a higher risk for dementia, and dementia can cause depression. 

The Harvard Medical School explains depression in the elderly can lead to a “phenomenon called pseudodementia—an apparent intellectual decline that stems from a lack of energy or effort.” They say individuals with this problem are often forgetful, move slowly, exhibit low motivation and signs of slowing mental prowess. If a loved one experiences these types of symptoms, their doctor may treat it with the same medications used to treat depression. As the person’s mood improves, they typically begin to function at their previous level. 

Professionals share a few ways depression and dementia differ to help families and healthcare providers determine what is going on. One important difference is the time span of the decline.  A person with depression typically shows a faster decline in mental functioning than those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Also, Alzheimer’s disease causes confusion and disorientation as well as problems with short-term memory. Depression causes problems with concentration. 

People suffering from depression do not have more than the usual difficulties with writing, speaking and motor skills, and are more aware of any memory problems they are experiencing. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease seem indifferent to those types of changes. However, to determine the cause of the problem, it is important to make an appointment with the person’s healthcare provider.  

If it does turn out to be Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is ready to help. Along with assisted living, our community provides compassionate, comprehensive care to those with memory impairment.  Residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  For trusted senior living in Colorado Springs, please contact us to learn more.

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. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/is-it-dementia-or-depression

Breaking Down the Cost of Assisted Living

Experts advise families to do their homework before moving mom or dad into an assisted living community as the more you know about retirement communities, it helps avoid sticker shock as well as an unhappy parent. The recommendation is to tour at least two potential communities in order to make an informed comparison.  

Prices for assisted living typically are determined by the amount of senior care services the person requires. Many offer a tiered system of care to allow residents to safely age in place as health conditions change so remember to ask about how often care plans are evaluated. Other reasons costs can vary include room type, i.e. selecting a smaller or larger floor plan; as well as suite location, a scenic view or balcony. 

Be sure to ask what services and activities are included in the basic cost of the community. You will want to know about upfront deposits, community and move-in fees. Additionally, ask about the procedure for moving out and what type of notice you need to give. 

Han Hwang, executive VP of partner sales and success for Caring.com, an online resource for those caring for aging parents, spouses and other loved ones, says “it’s really important to know exactly what you’re getting and to do an apples-to-apples comparison” when choosing an assisted living community. Often monthly costs include a fee for room and board along with the level of care, medication management and any other ancillary services. To help you stay within budget, Hwang says to anticipate services you may need over the next 12 to 24 months.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our community is designed from the ground up to meet the needs of residents with a range of luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Our beautiful home offers assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs seniors can count on, please contact us for pricing and availability. 

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 memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/best-senior-living/assisted-living/articles/assisted-living-costs

Learn More About MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

If you or your loved one needs assisted living in Colorado Springs, we encourage you to consider one of the finest communities in the area – MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.  A quick look through the photo gallery on our website will show you our beautiful common areas and comfortable private suites.  Although we provide a range of resort style amenities and services, our outstanding feature is a care staff that is genuinely committed to working with seniors.  

Before you even move in, we will meet with you and your family to discuss a care plan that addresses your various needs.  For our assisted living residents, we offer five Care Levels.  Furthermore, as your care is managed and evaluated throughout your stay at our Mountain Shadows community, we adjust the level of care as needed.  In addition to the cost of the suite, your monthly fee is determined by your required level of care. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. This individualized care plan ensures you get the right amount of assistance you need.

Each of MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ 45 stylish assisted living suites is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom, emergency call system, private heating and air conditioning, and basic cable TV and utilities are included.  We offer residents weekly housekeeping and laundry service as well as spot cleaning and daily trash removal.  To help residents feel right at home, we are pet friendly.

For our memory care residents, our pricing is all-inclusive, regardless of the level of care needed.  The Reflections Neighborhood offers 19 suites and is designed to encourage residents to explore their spacious surroundings easily and safely.  While a secure building, warm, inviting common areas and clear wayfinding encourage independence. MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease.  Please contact us or 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 resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Excellent Senior Living Found in Littleton Colorado Recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association

With all the memory care options in Littleton, it can be overwhelming to pick the right senior living community for your loved one. When looking for Alzheimers care options, it is important to know if a memory care community will meet the needs of your loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s. 

On behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association, they have developed a certification that recognizes senior living communities that prioritize exemplary assisted living and Alzheimer’s care for seniors. This award brings peace of mind to families looking for the best Alzheimers care Littleton Co has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Littleton and their memory care programs have been recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association as a “Recognized Leader in Dementia Care” for these reasons: 

Innovative Alzheimer’s Care

 MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co has a unique approach to Alzheimers care. As a facility dealing in the service of memory loss, combats worries surrounding a memory loss diagnosis through a compassionate Alzheimer’s care approach that they call “Lavender Sky.”

Under a “Lavender Sky,” memory care providers thoughtfully “enter, embrace, and explore” the realm of dementia. Instead of falling into a passive approach toward memory loss, “Lavender Sky” is a holistic approach that accepts the difficult diagnosis while pledging to enter into this new reality with intentional care and empathy.

Specialized Memory Care Training

An Alzheimer’s Association accreditation requires senior living communities to demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and education related to Alzheimer’s and dementia care. MorningStar requires all of our staff (culinary, housekeeping, front desk, and caretakers) to go through Lavender Sky training. This training program ensures that all staff have a deeper understanding of what dementia is and how to properly respond if a resident might require additional support or changes to their memory care plan. 

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Near You in Littleton, Colorado

Memory care communities like MorningStar offer a safe living environment and specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other forms of memory loss. 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. 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.

The Importance of Social and Active Assisted Living

Staying social and active can be more difficult as we age. Senior health, mobility, abilities and accessibility to events can impact how they interact in the world and maintain friendships. Social interaction is vital for everyone’s well-being, especially seniors. Seniors who live alone or in secluded living arrangements are more susceptible to social isolation which can lead to physical and mental health concerns.

This is why seniors should be aware of the best social opportunities in senior living Des Moines has to offer. Along with helping you navigate all the changes that come with growing older, MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines focuses on your social well-being to provide mental and physical health benefits.

What does social senior living look like?

Depending on the senior living community, social senior living involves a lot of active planning and consideration. Social senior living communities focus on creating a home that encourages social interaction, engagement and a sense of community for seniors. This type of senior living is designed to combat feelings of isolation and promote overall well-being and excitement. Here’s some of what you can expect to find in social senior living:

• Community Activities

• Fun Common Areas

• Planned Social Events

• Holiday Parties

• Communal Dining Options

• Involved Staff and Management 

Above all, you will notice happier, healthier residents in a social assisted living community. Even if your loved one struggles with completing daily tasks by themselves. 

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.

Finding the Best Senior Living Community for Yourself or a Loved One

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

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

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that have a specialized memory care area.  The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.  

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer all of that and more.  We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a staff who feel called to serve seniors. Our beautiful community has 45 assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

The Interesting Relationship Between Nature and Alzheimer’s Care

Seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia can greatly benefit from being outdoors and experiencing the natural world around them. Senior living communities are aware of the abundant research that highlights how a connection with nature can have a positive effect on Alzheimer’s symptoms. Through dedicated Alzheimer’s care research, MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co strives to improve the physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being of seniors by utilizing the healing powers of nature. 

The Therapeutic Influence of Nature for Seniors in Alzheimer’s Care

Exposure to nature, whether through outdoor walks, gardens, or natural settings, has been shown to reduce stress levels. You’ve likely experienced this effect of nature yourself. Daily walks where you can hear the birds and feel the sun on your skin while breathing in fresh air can give you a sense of reprieve and refresh your mind. 

Seniors struggling with memory loss tend to be more agitated and frustrated. However, the calming effect of nature and the outdoors can help seniors with Alzheimer’s experience a sense of tranquility and relaxation, leading to a more positive mood. Alzheimer’s care communities that regularly encourage seniors to go on walks or spend time on an outdoor patio or porch surrounded by greenery help seniors feel more relaxed. 

Improved Sleep

Many families remark on the change of a loved one’s sleeping pattern as a symptom of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Interestingly enough, spending more time outdoors can greatly improve sleeping behaviors. Spending at least 20 minutes in natural light during the day can help regulate the circadian rhythm, contributing to better sleep patterns and cognitive function in seniors with Alzheimer’s.

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Near You in Littleton, Colorado

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.

Tips for Family Members with Loved Ones in Assisted Living

Having a senior parent or loved one in an assisted living residence or other long-term senior care facility often presents families with mixed emotions. On one hand, you’re happy knowing your loved one is being cared for and experiencing a full life, but on the other hand, you may be experiencing feelings of guilt, shame or worry. 

Know that you are not alone with these feelings. Many adult children of aging parents deal with these very same thoughts. Below is a guide to better help you cope with your loved one transitioning to an assisted living community. 

1. Maintain Regular Communication

   Your parents still want to hear from you and your family. Avoiding the situation of your loved one being in a retirement community will make your negative emotions and thoughts grow. Call regularly to check in on them and to make sure they are adjusting well. Maintaining regular communication and knowing that they are well will help you feel more secure in the choice you made for your parents. 

2. Visit frequently

   Making frequent visits to see your loved one in their new assisted living home will help maintain the trust and connection between the two of you. Showing that you actively want to remain a part of their lives and that you are interested in their new life will spark joy in your parents. They will be excited to share their new interests and hobbies with you. Perhaps you can make it a family trip where your children can spend some time with their grandparents while enjoying a weekend getaway. 

3. Craft Thoughtful Gifts

   To help your parents readjust to their new assisted living home, spend some time crafting some home decorations for their space. Shadow boxes, collages, hand-sewn goods, pictures and paintings are heartfelt gifts that will keep them thinking of you while you’re away. They will be happy you considered them and their comfort in this new transition. 

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.

The Profound Benefits of Reminiscence Therapy in Alzheimer’s Care

Memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or dementia significantly changes the way a senior interacts in the world. Communication, mobility, and memory recall can be greatly altered with a memory loss diagnosis, leaving families to wonder what options they have to restore or maintain the cognitive function of a loved one. 

Reminiscence therapy is a powerful memory care approach that provides numerous benefits, especially for seniors facing memory loss difficulties. By tapping into the rich tapestry of their past experiences, MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co helps individuals in Alzheimer’s care reconnect with cherished memories, stimulate cognitive functions, and enhance emotional well-being. 

What is Reminiscence Therapy?

Reminiscence therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach used in Alzheimer’s care that aims to help an individual recall past experiences, events, and memories. This holistic memory care initiative recognizes the importance of an individual’s life history and is grounded in the idea that recalling and sharing memories from the past through familiar activities can have positive effects on those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in these ways: 

Cognitive Stimulation and Memory Recall

Engaging in reminiscence activities can stimulate memory recall, helping individuals access and share memories from their past. Puzzles, playing music, and doing workbooks focused on mental stimulation are some of the ways reminiscence therapy can be utilized to help memory recall. 

Improved Communication and Behavior

Reminiscence therapy often happens in a group setting, or with family members. Working in a group promotes social interaction and strengthens relationships. During this therapy, sharing memories, listening to familiar audiobooks, watching family videos, and playing a beloved board game creates space for meaningful conversations to happen. Being exposed to familiar experiences encourages verbal and nonverbal expression while encouraging relaxation and better social behavior. 

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Quickly with MorningStar

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.

Tips to Prevent Falls

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

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

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

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

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

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  If you are looking for senior living in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, we encourage you to consider 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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

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

What is the Most Affordable Senior Living Option?

Thinking about senior living care can be overwhelming for many families, especially when it comes to cost. Many people don’t know what steps to take to find their loved one affordable assisted living care. The process may seem daunting and overwhelming, but we are here to help you make the right decision for you and your family members. 

Establishing what level of need your loved one requires is a great start to finding the right senior living community for your parent, spouse or family member. All-inclusive senior living is a great consideration for seniors looking for easily accessible amenities, affordability, executive chef-created meals, safe living situations and active senior events and activities. 

What is all-inclusive senior living?

All-inclusive assisted living is a type of senior living arrangement where a single monthly fee covers a comprehensive range of services, care, amenities, and housing expenses. This approach simplifies the cost of senior living by bundling various services into one predictable, monthly package. 

What Makes All-Inclusive Senior Living More Affordable?

All-inclusive senior living minimizes the need for separate payments for individual services. For seniors in need of assisted living care, services, caregiver chargers, medications and therapies can add-up on top of paying for their home and routine maintenance. 

Assisted living that bundles services, care and amenities provides seniors with more access to the things they need with less worry about mundane stressors like chores, errands, bills and housework, much of which is difficult for them to manage on their own. 

With most all-inclusive assisted living, your level of care can also determine the cost of monthly services. This can be helpful to many families, however, as you only pay for the services and care you need, not the ones you don’t,

Affordable Senior Living Options in Iowa

Assisted living at MorningStar includes three daily meals, plus snacks, a 24-hour on-site nurse, life enrichment teams that plan events and activities, community involvement, and other social initiatives that encourage active and healthy seniors. There is also a wide array of amenities, like a movie theatre, salon, bistro, courtyard, garden, and much more. This is what makes all-inclusive senior care so valuable. 

To help you to explore options, MorningStar has partnered with Elderlife Financial Services whose agents are here to offer education on the financial resources potentially open to you in paying for independent living, assisted living, or memory care.

Find Personalized 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.

Use Music and Art to Engage Those Living With Alzheimer’s Disease

Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to improve the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Experts explain they help encourage engagement and self-expression even in more advanced stages.  

Professionals who work with Alzheimer’s patients say music seems to decrease agitation and improve behavioral problems common in the middle stages of the disease. Patients in later stages may even be able to sing a song they knew from childhood or tap a foot to the beat even after other forms of communication are difficult. Dancing or gently moving to a rhythm helps coordinate motor movements as well as allows the person to express emotions. Research shows “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” 

If you wish to use music to calm and soothe, choose peaceful, tranquil pieces. If you want to boost spirits and bring back happy memories, use livelier pieces. Experts say to turn off other distractions like a TV and close windows if there is outside noise. Music may be more enjoyable to the person if it is something they are familiar with from their earlier life. 

Art can also be an outlet for self-expression and give a person with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose and accomplishment in creating their own work. Experts recommended avoiding any project that seems childlike and demeaning. Use safe, non-toxic materials, and if they need, take their hand and guide it on the paper to get them started. Moreover, remember there is no need for the person to finish.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is a trusted assisted living and memory care community in a northwest suburb of Denver.  Our holistic memory care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation. A resident’s day is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents. Please visit our website for more information about exceptional 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 assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-mu

Are You Worried About a Loved One’s Memory Problems?

It is worrisome to notice changes in a spouse, parent or another loved one’s health. If those changes involve the person’s memory, thinking or behavior, it can be hard to know what to say or do. The Alzheimer’s Association explains while you may be unsure on how to best approach the issue, these changes could be a sign of a significant health concern. They offer the following advice on how to sort through the changes. 

The first thing is to think about what is causing your concern and how out of the norm is it for the person? Then consider what else may be going on in the person’s life such as changes in their physical health or other stress factors that could impact their mental state. Remember depression and diabetes can cause changes in a person’s mental acuity. 

Now take a look at the Alzheimer’s Association’s 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementia diseases. Do these common signs seem to be in line with the type of things you are worrying about? If they do, you may want to enlist some help from other trusted family members or friends.

Start by asking them if they too have noticed any changes in the person’s behavior. If there is an agreement on something being amiss, experts say it is best if one or two people are selected for the task of discussing the problem with the person as a crowd may be too threatening.

Good conversation starters can be something like, “I have noticed some changes in you, is everything okay?,” or use a specific example of something troubling you have noticed the person doing. Offer to go to the doctor’s with the person; and if the first talk is not productive, try again. Keep in mind, the Alzheimer’s Association’s website has a lot of resources and support so take advantage of the help.

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is proud to offer compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit 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.

Selecting an Assisted Living Community

According to the US Census Bureau’s statistics, there were an estimated 56 million adults ages 65 years and older, accounting for approximately 16.8% of the nation’s population as of 2021. An aging population means the number of seniors who require help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) will continue to grow as will the necessity for assisted living communities to address those needs. 

The National Center for Assisted Living, a non-profit organization representing assisted living facilities across the country, explains, “Assisted living is part of a continuum of long-term care services that provides a combination of housing, personal care services, and health care designed to respond to individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes maximum independence.​”

So how do you decide the best fit for yourself or a loved one when it comes to an assisted living community? Experts say begin by researching who regulates assisted living in your state and the type of regulations in place. Then begin looking at individual homes. The most important thing is to ensure the home provides the level of care you or your loved one needs now and will need over the next several years as you don’t want to have to make another move in a couple of years. 

Affordability is another consideration. Consulting with an elder care attorney can be helpful in exploring creative ways to pay for assisted living. Also, you will want a location convenient for family and friends, and for getting to doctor’s appointments, shopping and more. 

Finally, consider the amenities and activities. Does the community have inviting common areas for visitors?  What type of onsite amenities would you desire?  A salon, theater or chapel? Are the activities or hobbies you enjoy such as crafting or bridge available?  

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we offer assisted living along with memory care.  As an assisted living resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your needs. 

MorningStar residents enjoy beautifully prepared meals, served restaurant-style and eaten in a relaxed, community setting. We also know it is important for seniors to continue to learn and contribute, which is why we offer a wide range of meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment. Please visit our website for more information about outstanding assisted living in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Factors to Consider About Aging in Place

To safely age in place, seniors need to be somewhere that supports their independence, health, and security whether it is their own home or a senior community which meets their needs. The decision on where and how a person lives depends on a variety of factors including any physical conditions limiting their mobility. Another thing affecting a person’s well-being is living with a disease such as Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. 

It is beneficial to evaluate your current home to see if it will work for you in the future; or would your needs be better served somewhere like an assisted living community? If you have mobility issues and your present living situation requires modifications to make it safe, keep in mind those changes can be expensive as well as affect the value of the home when you do sell. Problem areas include stairs, narrow doorways and poorly lit areas that increase the risk of a dangerous fall. 

Additionally, if you live alone, how far away are family members or friends you can count on if you need help. Are you comfortable with an in-home service to assist you with tasks that are difficult to do on your own such as bathing or preparing food?

Other important considerations of aging in place include the upkeep of a home. Are you responsible for the maintenance inside and out? Also, do you still drive, and how far away is shopping and your medical care? 

If you do have chronic health conditions, it makes sense to plan for changing needs. In some cases, a person may choose to move into an assisted living community even if they currently do not need help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). This way they are already familiar with the residents and staff and have the peace of mind knowing help will be there when they need it. If you live in or around the Colorado Springs area, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, a luxury senior living community offering assisted living and memory care. 

Our building was designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ needs in beautiful surroundings. Services include help with the ADLs; all-day, restaurant-style dining; resort-style amenities; wellness programs, activities and built-in companionship. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other types of memory loss, the Reflections Neighborhood provides safety, security, people and programs to help preserve the person’s dignity and self-worth. Please contact us to ask about availability and to set up a tour. 

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.

What Causes Excessive Bruising?

As we age, many seniors discover new bruises on their body but have no memory of how they got there. The Medical News Today (MNT) explains this may be the result of the skin thinning and blood vessels weakening and/or that some people are just more prone to bruising. It can also run in families. Being a frequent, extreme bruiser includes having many bruises without remembering their cause; regularly developing bruises that take many weeks to heal and bleeding for longer than 10 minutes following an injury.

Excessive bruising and bleeding can be from medications, many of which seniors routinely take. These include drugs like warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and aspirin. Doctors say even certain herbal remedies such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, large quantities of garlic, ginger, and willow bark can increase the risk of bleeding or cause a change to blood vessels. The same is true for drugs like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids of which one example is prednisone.  

MNT reports liver disease is also associated with excessive bruising. “As the disease progresses, the liver may stop producing the proteins that help the blood clot. As a result, a person may experience excessive bleeding and easy bruising.” Other blood disorders and diseases such as hemophilia, senile purpura, or even vitamin deficiencies can include bruising as a symptom. Experts say consult your healthcare provider if you suddenly begin bruising more easily, have symptoms such as yellow skin, fever and low energy, taking medication and begin bruising, or getting painful bruises that are slow to heal. 

For unsurpassed assisted living, Colorado Springs area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, a great place to live your retirement years to the fullest.  We offer a whole host of programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social well-being.  Each day residents have the opportunity to engage the mind, body and spirit as well as find ways to learn and contribute.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic, compassionate care to those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior 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.  Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325525#causes

Our Home is Designed to Comfortably and Safely Age in Place

If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provide residents with all the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them comfortably and safely age in place. Moreover, as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it. 

Right from the ground up, our home is designed to meet the needs and comfort of our residents.  We offer beautifully appointed common areas including inviting gathering areas, bistro, salon, fitness room, theatre, and an attractive dining room for all-day, restaurant-style dining. Residents also enjoy the outdoors with a fireside and strolling paths.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we recognize that good nutrition is vital to seniors’ health, which is why we put such an effort into the food we serve. Our Executive Chef creates meals that are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  In addition, we offer a range of nutritional choices including low sodium, sugar-free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  MorningStar’s Chef even uses “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega-3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens. 

Too often seniors assume assisted living means an end to their independence, but studies show the opposite is true. When older adults get the daily personal care they need, it helps to restore their confidence and frees them up to move forward with living life to the fullest. At MorningStar, we help you do so with extensive support services, wellness programs and activities. Our contemporary suites are move-in ready and just require your furnishings and personal items. For your safety and wellbeing, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. We are also pet friendly!

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers 45 assisted living suites with the choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 19 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website to learn what sets us apart from other senior living in Colorado Springs 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 and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Help Your Elderly Parent Practice Good Medication Management

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking at least one or more prescription medications daily.  In fact, the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.”  Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interactions, an area of special concern for the elderly.  

Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state almost 450,000 older adults (65 years old or older) visit the emergency room each year because of adverse, or harmful, drug events.  Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “take on an empty stomach,” and the adverse side effects. 

Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them.  Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs.  The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous.  Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork.   

Store medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense for your parent’s needs.  If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system.  However, if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored. 

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern.  This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents take medications properly, and as we even order medications, there is no danger of them running out.  Please visit our website for more information about exceptional memory care and assisted living in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.