Find Companion Living in Premiere Assisted Living Des Moines

May 27, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

What’s one of the best ways to enhance a senior’s comfort and sense of security? Companion living options allow seniors to live intimately with someone they know and trust and is one of the many ways assisted living can make seniors feel more safe and comfortable. At MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines, this arrangement is available for both couples and close friends, ensuring a supportive environment tailored to individual needs.

What is Companion Living?

Companion living is a great senior living option for those who are most comfortable living with someone they know and trust and who may need some extra help with daily living activities. Companion living is where two close individuals share a senior living apartment but can have separate care routines and treatments.

If you are looking for an affordable senior living option in Des Moines, be sure to consider companion living. Individuals can share the cost of rent, utilities, furniture, and even groceries that need to be purchased for the home.

The Benefits of Companion Living

A trustworthy companion, partner, spouse, family member, or friend can keep an eye on each other while navigating their new living arrangement. Living with someone you know is great because these individuals are already used to their loved ones needs and habits, which can help the other one to acclimate easier and begin to make their senior living facility their home. A companion can also update care managers and nurses within their senior living facility if routines or completion with activities begin to change. Those closest to us can pick up on things quicker than others sometimes and can notify caregivers when necessary.

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.

Visiting a Loved One in an Assisted Living Community

May 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living community by letting them know they are very special to us. To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit.

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit. Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game. You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or start a new one. If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together. If they enjoy listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together. If they like sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help get them ready to mail. If they get pleasure from being pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink. Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home. However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big. Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community. Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Wheat Ridge, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents, but we know they always look forward to seeing their family. Our community has beautiful and inviting common areas to enjoy with visiting family and friends. For assisted living in Wheat Ridge, CO, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely.

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care. Please contact us to discover why MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is a great place to call home.

How to Break the Stigma Around Assisted Living

May 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Although things are changing, many seniors may report a feeling of guilt or shame around relocating to a senior living home or assisted living care. These feelings are often perpetuated by family members and seniors are unable to recognize or refuse to admit the need for help from loved ones or a senior living community. This refusal often stems from the stigma surrounding the need for assistance, empathy, and care. It's important to address and remove this stigma to emphasize that needing help is a normal part of aging.

If you feel you or a loved one may be ready to transition to assisted living care, here are some tips on how to break the stigma when looking for the best assisted living des moines has to offer seniors.

1. Recognize the Signs

If you notice a loved one falling behind on bills, unable to keep up with typical household chores, or food frequently going bad in the fridge, it may be time for an honest discussion about assisted living options. Recognizing these signs as indicators that additional support might be necessary to ensure safety and well-being.

2. Have Honest Conversations

If you want to break the stigma around assisted living care, it’s important to engage in honest and respectful conversations with your loved ones about their needs. We all need help sometimes. It’s crucial to maintain respect and understanding during these discussions, ensuring that seniors do not feel ashamed or embarrassed about needing help.

3. Highlight the Benefits of Assisted Living

It’s easier to break the stigma of senior living communities when you educate yourself and others on what assisted living really looks like these days. Explain that assisted living communities, like MorningStar Senior Living in Des Moines, offer modern and personalized support at various levels to aid in daily activities. With around-the-clock Care Managers, residents' comfort and safety are prioritized, creating a supportive and enriching environment

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.

Learn More About MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

May 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows in Colorado Springs is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which takes a unique, holistic approach to its senior living communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless.

Our company has thrived and expanded since its conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living. From there our mission statement reads: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.

Even the name MorningStar has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a name that spoke to the passion I have to bring loving care to seniors.” The name—MorningStar—comes from a verse where Jesus said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star” (Revelation 22:16).

At the Mountain Shadows community, we offer assisted living suites in a range of floor plans and configurations. Amenities include all-day, restaurant-style dining; fitness room; salon; bistro; theater; fireside patio; scheduled transportation; and more. Services include 24-hour care managers, a full-time licensed nurse (on call 24/7), electronic health records and medication management. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care to those living with memory impairment.

As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, wellness programs, activities and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Please visit our website for information about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Browse through our online pictures and then use the link to set up a tour to see our home firsthand. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar’s senior living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge Offers Individualized, Compassionate Memory Care

May 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Memory care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers 19 memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our care services are extensive, and we provide a wide range of amenities, wellness programs and activities.

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

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

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Our program provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families. All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents. It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as holistic solutions to challenging behaviors. Additionally, our devoted team feels privileged to serve, and understands every person deserves to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

MorningStar Senior Living will celebrate its 21st anniversary this year and has grown to 40+ communities in operation or under construction in eleven states. Please contact us for more information about individualized, compassionate memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO. We look forward to hearing from you.

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.

How to Tailor Your Assisted Living Experience to Match Your Needs at MorningStar Senior Living

May 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Finding the best assisted living home for you or a senior loved one can be hard. All of the senior living options available can make the process overwhelming, but by taking the time to research and evaluate your options you’ll likely come to find that you should want an assisted living experience that matches your loved one’s needs and wants. Keep reading to learn how MorningStar Senior Living can help you tailor your assisted living experience to match your needs.

1. Evaluate Your Needs and Preferences

The first step to finding senior living that meets your needs is to determine the level of care you or your loved one needs. If you are searching for assisted living, be sure to track what needs your loved one requires more help with than others. Be sure to factor in any medical support, medication management, or possible future memory care as this can contribute to your loved one’s overall senior living experience.

2. Look for Personalized Care Plans

Choose communities that offer personalized care plans. Personalized care plans make it easy for families and residents to tailor their care routine to their specific needs and preferences. Rooted in holistic practice, personalized care is made to be adaptable, meaning that the care and services can and should change and evolve over time. This flexibility ensures that care remains relevant and effective over time. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, every aspect of life is tailored to individual needs, from meals to activities and even spirituality.

3. Find an Active Senior Community

MorningStar offers a wide range of activities tailored to residents’ interests. Engaging in these activities helps maintain independence, boost social connections, and build relationships. Building relationships with other residents and staff can enhance your experience and create a supportive community that helps you feel supported and welcomed.

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Older Adults Are at Greater Risk for Serious Eye Diseases

May 20, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Just as the rest of our body ages, so do our eyes. Older adults often complain of dry, teary or tired eyes and may have problems driving at night, experience flashes and floaters or need glasses to read. As we grow older, we are also at a higher risk for serious eye diseases that can impact our vision.

One of the most serious eye diseases is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The American Macular Degeneration Foundation reports AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss among people aged 60 and older, affecting nearly 20 million Americans. The risk of developing AMD increases with age and if you are 75 or older, your risk is 1 in 3. Age-related macular degeneration causes the macula, a part of the back of the eye near the retina, to deteriorate. Experts say while it doesn’t impact peripheral vision, macular degeneration can affect how well a person sees what’s right in front of them.

You are at a higher risk of getting AMD if a relative has had it or you are Caucasian, and females are more susceptible to AMD than males. Lifestyle choices also increase your risk for AMD including smoking along with elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Sun exposure is another risk factor and doctors recommend wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Maintaining a healthy diet by eating foods high in antioxidants like lutein found in green, leafy vegetables such as spinach are beneficial for our eye health.

Symptoms of AMD include visual distortions and can make straight lines appear bent, reduce central vision in one or both eyes, increase blurriness of printed words, and the need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work. The first signs of AMD are typically discovered by an eye doctor during an annual dilated eye exam.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our beautiful senior community is designed to meet every need. Residents enjoy luxury amenities, care and hospitality services, and a range of wellness programs and activities. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other assisted living in Colorado Springs and why MorningStar is 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 to learn more about the finest assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Make Tasty Snacks That Are Also Healthy

May 20, 2024 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 outstanding senior living in Denver’s northern suburbs, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge 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, 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. Please visit our website for more information about our home and to inquire about availability and pricing, or to set up a tour.

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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.

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

Gardening Is a Perfect Way To Get Some Exercise and Enjoy Nature

May 17, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

A garden full of flowers and/or home-grown vegetables is a rewarding pastime for many seniors. Not only does it offer beauty and wholesome, nutritional food for you and those you share your bounty with, but a healthier lifestyle.

Experts say going outside to work in the garden is a perfect way to get exercise and enjoy nature as well as to get a dose of vitamin D. They warn to protect your exposed skin with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, wear light, loose clothing, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and don’t overdo it, and avoid working outside during the heat of the day. Gardening is a great way to reduce stress and forget about your problems, at least for a while. Overall, even a few hours a week doing something as enjoyable as gardening can strengthen muscles, improve mobility and increase flexibility.

Growing tomatoes and lettuce or starting an herb garden is a great place for beginners to start and are appropriate plants for container gardening. For flowers, stick to those suitable for your region. Planning your garden is a big part of the fun and involves critical thinking in deciding what to plant and how to care for it. In fact, studies show that with the physical aspect of gardening and the critical thinking skills involved in planning it, you may lessen your chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease.

Another often overlooked benefit of gardening is the social aspect. While working in your garden may be a solitary activity, gardeners enjoy getting together in the forms of clubs, visiting their local farmers market, nursery trips, or joining a community garden project.

At MorningStar of Mountain Shadows we provide luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities to help residents live life to the fullest. Outdoor amenities include a fireside patio, strolling paths and resident garden beds. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about exceptional 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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.

Finding Long-Term Care for a Loved One With Alzheimer’s Disease

May 15, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

For many people suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, there comes a time when home care is not enough and the person would benefit from long-term care in a residential setting. Of course when that time comes, you want the finest care so it is important to understand what the community offers and whether it meets the needs of your loved one.

Independent living communities, which offer things like meals, transportation, amenities and social activities do not have the ability to care for someone in the middle or advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This type of community is only appropriate for those in the early stages of the disease who can still care for themselves.

Assisted living communities offer supportive care and provide an alternative between independent living and nursing homes. However, if you are looking at assisted living, ask if they have a dedicated memory care area for those with Alzheimer’s disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association understands it is a difficult decision to move a loved one into residential care but at a certain point they say it may be best for the person and their family. As the disease advances, 24/7 supervision is necessary to ensure the person’s safety; and this level of care can take a real toll on a family caregiver. Moreover, as a caregiver, it is important to consider your own health and whether you are neglecting other responsibilities that are also important. Another thing to remember is the social setting and structure of a memory care community might prove to be good for the person.

To decide on a memory care community, it helps to visit a few places to determine which one would be best for your loved one. Experts recommend visiting during mealtime or activity time. You will also want to know how the community involves families in creating care plans; and what is the procedure to inform families of changes in the person’s condition or care needs.

Other important details to ask about include programs and activities the person will participate in as well as what is the ratio of staff to residents. Be sure to notice if the community is well-kept and that residents appear clean and well-groomed.

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to set up a tour.

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

Improve Overall Health by Focusing on Higher Quality Nutrition

May 13, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

While losing weight is tough, for many of us, the real battle is keeping the weight off. Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, a dietitian and diabetes educator based in Washington, D.C., explains there is a growing body of evidence showing that when we focus on higher-quality nutrition, not only does our weight improve but also our health. Changing to a diet with more vegetables and fruits means you will take in fewer calories than you previously did, allowing weight loss to naturally take place. An improved diet results in better health.

One of the biggest problems with “dieting” is that a person too often focuses on calorie content without regard to nutritional value.” Experts say this makes sticking to a calorie restrictive diet harder. Once we include nutritional foods in our day-to-day diet, it makes us feel fuller and even lets us eat more while taking in fewer calories.

Another thing about a life-long nutritional diet filled with fruits and vegetables, plant-based proteins and whole foods is it promotes better health and quality of life as you age. Research shows people who eat better have a lower risk of many chronic diseases. Furthermore, dietitians say it is never too late to adopt healthier eating patterns. By simply changing diet, many people can lower high-blood pressure and cholesterol as well as reverse diabetes.

Doctors agree adopting good eating habits that are permanent is what counts rather than short-term diets. Along with diet; exercise, sleep and stress management are all important for better health.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is a 55+ community in Colorado Springs. Our beautiful home offers assisted living residents a lifestyle of wellbeing, community and security. Along with nutritious daily meals tailored to the changing health needs of older adults, we have a broad range of onsite amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all the services required to meet the needs of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour.

The Advantages of Assisted Living

May 10, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support. For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services. This is because assisted living offers 24/7 care and provides the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments. Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar at Mountain Shadows are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were. To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones. In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute. In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.” We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living in Colorado Springs. Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission.

When to Consider a Memory Care Community

May 08, 2024 by Quinn A in Memory care

A Place for Mom’s website explains how many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia can live independently with or without the help of in-home caregivers or family members. However, they also stress there may come a time when the disease progresses to a stage where the person’s safety and physical well-being is in jeopardy and more care is needed.

As a person with Alzheimer’s may have good days and bad, it can be hard to tell if they would be better served in a memory care community. Experts say signs include: has their appearance changed? Do they look unkempt and have they lost weight due to forgetting to eat? Do they appear agitated and confused? Are they unable to carry on a conversation?

Your loved one’s healthcare provider can help you decide if it is time for memory care. Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says, “When talking about memory care, or some form of a different living arrangement, I’ll center the talk around their ability to perform the activities of daily living and safety.”

A Place for Mom says to gauge a senior’s abilities and safety, your doctor may ask if they:

Get lost on routes they take frequently, such as going to the grocery store or taking a walk around the neighborhood
Have trouble remembering to eat or drink
Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately
Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual
Had a fall or been to the emergency room recently
Leave the stove on after preparing food

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides compassionate memory care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes. Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. Please 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: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

The Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

April 26, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living Community

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Wheat Ridge are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many older adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life.

A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our Executive Chef specializes in creating tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents.

Another problem many older adults have is managing medications properly. In fact, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people aged 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However, experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.” For this reason, MorningStar offers medication management to our residents.

Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their retirement years and live as comfortably and safely as possible. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury senior living in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assist e d-living-is-better/

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

April 24, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

The Mayo Clinic explains our bodies constantly absorb and replace bone tissue. When a person has osteoporosis, their body is removing old bone but not keeping up with making new bone. Early warning signs of osteoporosis include bone fractures, lost height, curved back, sudden back pain and gastrointestinal problems. However, many people have no symptoms, and it isn’t until a bone fracture or a bone density test (measuring the proportion of minerals in the bones), do they learn they have osteoporosis. A step above osteoporosis is osteopenia, which affects approximately half of Americans over age 50.

It is important to work with your doctor if your bone loss has progressed to osteoporosis as there are medications that can help build stronger bones. In addition, you can help increase bone strength with a healthy diet of foods high in calcium, vitamins D and K, and protein. Foods containing calcium include dairy and soy, fish and green leafy vegetables like kale. Additionally, many foods are fortified with calcium so check labels. Protein is found in meat, fish, eggs, soy and dairy products, beans, lentils, and legumes as well as seeds and nuts. Experts recommend people over age 70 increase their uptake of vitamin D to 800 IU daily, which they can also obtain from supplements.

Consuming a lot of salt should be avoided as the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports overconsumption of salt can cause the kidneys to excrete calcium. Studies indicate consuming caffeine in coffee or caffeinated drinks can additionally interfere with the body’ absorption of calcium and it is recommended older adults limit their coffee intake to no more than three cups a day. Limiting alcohol also helps maintain bone health. Another component to maintaining or building stronger bones includes weight-bearing exercises.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers assisted living residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an abundance of amenities. Amenities include beautifully prepared, nutritional meals; theater; fitness room; salon; bistro; scheduled transportation; and a variety of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/osteoporosis-diet#diet-and-bone-health

Get the Care You Need at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

April 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

For outstanding assisted living, Colorado Springs area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, 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 gets 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 about MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Our community includes 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

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

A Healthy Diet Can Improve Bone Health

April 22, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/osteoporosis-diet#diet-and-bone-health

Improve Your Care by Preparing for Your Next Doctor’s Visit

April 19, 2024 by Quinn A in Assisted Living

Have you had the experience of walking to your car after a doctor’s visit and a question pops into your mind you wished you had asked the doctor? You are not alone. In fact, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), a division of the U.S. Dept. of Human Health & Services, reminds all of us about the benefit of preparing questions and accurate information ahead of time to provide to your physician. They say it not only improves your care, but builds trust between you and your healthcare provider, which can lead to better results.

For help on questions to ask to facilitate a more fruitful visit to your doctor and efficiently use your precious time (studies show doctors spend between 13 to 24 minutes with each patient), the AHRQ offers a series of questionnaires related to your visit. Remember typically you have a reason for the visit such as: a well visit, looking for answers for a specific medical problem, returning to discuss treatment, or getting test results. Prepare for your appointment by bringing your prescription medications as well as over-the-counter drugs you use including vitamins and dietary or herbal supplements.

When discussing a possible medical procedure, AHRQ says questions should include: why do I need this procedure; how do I prepare; when will I get the results; and how will I feel afterward? If surgery is recommended, ask if there are alternative treatments available that are just as effective; possible complications; and recovery period. AHRQ says if you are given a new medication, ask how the new drug will interact with other drugs you are taking, how long you will be on it, and common side effects. Before you leave your appointment, make sure you understand your instructions.

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community in Colorado Springs offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, if a family member requires memory care, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 19 suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms 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 exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Source: ahrq.gov/questions/be-engaged/index.html

Why Open Communication with Family is Key in Memory Care

April 17, 2024 by Quinn A in Memory care

Many families fear placing their loved one into a retirement home because of the perceived idea that there will be a lack of communication and family involvement in their loved one’s care. While there are certainly red flags to be wary of when it comes to finding the right living arrangement for your family member, Alzheimer’s care is most successful when there is open collaboration between families and care providers.

Fostering collaboration and trust between families and memory care staff enhances the quality of Alzheimer’s care in multiple ways. Keep reading to understand why open communication is valued at MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co.

Understanding Leads to Consistency and Trust

Alzheimer’s care managers should value what input a family can provide about their loved one before creating a treatment plan. Experienced memory care managers can voice valuable insight and guidance about what may be a good course of action for successful Alzheimer’s care, but families ultimately know their loved one’s needs and abilities best.

MorningStar Memory Care and Senior Living Littleton Co takes a personal approach to Alzheimer’s care. By interviewing the family on the senior’s full history, we discover core motivators, abilities, and preferences that help to create the best Alzheimer’s care for them. This personalized plan can also be readjusted at any time. Having open and continuous communication with family, medical providers, and the senior in care leads to better consistency in care.

Trusted Alzheimer’s is easy to find at MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Co. Named the “Alzheimer’s Association Leader in Dementia Care,” MorningStar is a senior living community that has enrolled more than 75% of its staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals in memory care. Colorado is the only Alzheimer’s Association chapter in the country offering this special Alzheimer’s care program.

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care 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 Senior Living 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.

Why Regular Family Visits Are Important for Seniors

April 17, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Life gets complicated. We know how hard it can be to routinely visit with a loved one in senior living. Between careers, pets, family, traveling, and other life events, it can be difficult to make enough time to visit a loved one in retirement. However, the benefits for maintaining a strong connection with your senior loved one has some lasting benefits.

At MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines, we pride ourselves on creating a comforting environment for seniors and their families to enjoy. Our community is conveniently located near I-35, I-235, and I-80 and next door to Jordan Creek Town Center, the largest shopping complex in Iowa. Inside our community, you and your loved one can enjoy a private dining room for intimate dinners, a theatre, a library, a sunroom, and decorated courtyards. Like our residents, we value open communication and the involvement of family members in all the activities and events hosted at MorningStar.

Family is deeply valued at MorningStar. Our loved ones have so much to teach us about life. When we regularly visit with our elders, we create lasting memories that inspire and comfort us. While it may be difficult to grasp, our loved ones won’t always be around, so it’s important to value their time with us while we can and participate in fulfilling activities and communication.

Many seniors look forward to having some alone time in retirement, but too much can be a bad thing, especially if they are still adjusting to a new assisted living home. While they will surely make new friends in no time, they will miss their close family. Seniors can begin to experience bouts of depression and discouragement if the family seems to be uninterested in visiting or communicating. Life may get complicated, but it is important to remember the vital connections of family.