A Mediterranean Diet May Help Stave Off Cognitive Decline

The Medical New Today recently published an article from Gut Microbes Reports, which suggests “that not only did the Mediterranean diet change gut microbiota and improve serum lipid levels; it also improved memory and cognition.” The study reported a link between improved memory and learning after “participants” followed a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plants, whole grains and healthy fats. 

The 20 week study’s participants were 10-week-old rats who half were fed a traditional Western diet and the other half a Mediterranean diet.  Researchers say at the end of the study, rats fed a Mediterranean diet had better cognitive flexibility and improved aspects of spatial reference and working memory. The improvements correlated with a healthier gut microbiota.

Scott Kaiser, MD, a board-certified geriatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in this study, told Medical News Today: “A growing body of evidence clearly supports a strong correlation between diet and brain health. While this study, and other related cornerstone studies in this field, may not be designed to specifically establish causation there are many clear causal pathways and plausible biological mechanisms that support the likelihood that various diets and nutritional factors may either be protective of our brain health or accelerate cognitive decline and otherwise impact our mental well-being.”

Medical New Today suggests while there may not be an absolute connection between better dietary habits and cognitive decline, much of the research from the last several years speaks to the fact 2025 may be the time to adopt better lifestyle habits. They explain a number of studies show nutrition; exercise and sleep can improve overall health including brain and heart health.  

To help you live your best life, you may want to consider the finest senior living Littleton, CO families count on. MorningStar of Littleton’s assisted living supports seniors as they age with freedom and choices, luxury amenities and a host of hospitality services. We also take pride in our best-in-class dining services that include offerings made largely from scratch incorporating fresh produce and BrainWise foods. For compassionate Alzheimers care, our Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care services to enhance quality of life. Please schedule a personalized tour to see our unique community. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mediterranean-diet-may-boost-memory-by-changing-gut-makeup?

Concerned About All the Food Recalls Lately?

It may seem as if you are hearing about food recalls every other week, and you are not too far off. A recent study reports food recalls grew annually from 454 to 547 between the years of 2020 to 2024. Experts say however, one of the reasons for the recalls is actually a good thing as more money is being invested in testing, investigation, identification and tracking systems to help ensure our food safety. Nonetheless Barbara Kowalcyk, director of the Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition Security at George Washington University says it is far from being a perfect system.

Food recalls can be voluntarily pulled off the shelves by the producer or the result of an investigation by the FDA. The reasons for a recall can be because the food is contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites. Another cause might be a foreign substance was inadvertently introduced to the product such as broken glass, plastic or metal. The FDA has also instigated a recall due to the fact important allergen information is missing from the packaging.  

So what can we do to protect ourselves? For a start, it is good to understand how the system works and why it triggers recalls. Our food chain is more complex than ever as food is often grown, manufactured, packed and distributed by separate companies. The result is more companies are involved, which increases the risk of exposure to contamination. 

Kowalcyk recommends thoroughly washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before handling food; and only use clean, sanitary surfaces to prepare the food. Wash produce before using it by running water over it and drying with a paper towel. Remember to follow the rule of keeping raw meat and poultry away from other food. To ensure food is thoroughly cooked, use a food thermometer. When dining out, speak up if food is not properly cooked. 

The MorningStar of Littleton offers a level of senior living Littleton, CO seniors count on. Our community has 65 assisted living suites and 20 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to Alzheimers care and other dementia-related diseases. We are conveniently located by some of the area’s top medical facilities including St. Anthony Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center. The downtown area and a variety of banks, shopping malls, grocery stores and restaurants are nearby. Contact us to set up a personalized tour to see the area’s more desirable senior living. 

Source: .latimes.com/california/story/2024-12-08/avoid-raw-milk-experts-talk-about-why-there-have-been-so-many-recalls-and-what-consumers-can-do-to-protect-themselves

Make Sleep a Priority

One thing we can do to maintain our health as we age is to get a good night’s sleep. Learning to prioritize and manage our sleep is important to good brain health including our cognitive health. However for far too many older adults, it becomes harder and harder to sleep through the night.

Seniors often buy-in to the myth that they no longer need as much sleep as they did when they were younger; but experts disagree. They say the truth is older adults require the same amount of sleep as their younger counterparts, which is at least 7 hours a night according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

Moreover studies show older adults are typically getting less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep per night. This is the period of time when we dream and the brain is active; and is important for memory, learning, mental focus and mood.  

Another sleep cycle is the period when the brain purges toxins. AARP writes, “The glymphatic system uses cerebrospinal fluid to flush out toxins and waste products, such as amyloid beta.” Not adequately going through this cycle may accelerate the amount of amyloid beta that builds up and clumps together to form plaques; and lack of this slow-wave sleep may increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Studies also report lack of sleep can affect our emotions. After all, who of us has not felt grumpy or sad when we have not gotten enough sleep? Several long-term studies have shown adults who report poor sleep patterns are more prone to depression. Sleep can even strengthen your immune system. 

For the above reasons, it is important to try and improve your sleep quality. If you think stress and anxiety are interfering with your sleep, try mindful practices like keeping a gratitude journal or breathing exercises. Also make a point to get enough physical exercise each day as that too can help you sleep.

The MorningStar of Littleton senior living community offers trusted assisted living with 65 spacious suites across three-stories available in spacious studios and one-and-two-bedrooms. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides Alzheimers care with 20 all-inclusive suites. Contact us to set up a personalized tour to the finest senior living in Littleton, CO.

Source: stayingsharp.aarp.org/articles/sleep-deprivation-loss/

Want to Keep Your Brain Sharp?

As we age, many of us may feel like we lost a step or two in terms of our cognition and memory skills. However, just as there are things we can do to improve our brain health; there are things we should avoid to protect it. To start with, some of the same things bad for our physical health are bad for our mental health such as lack of exercise and poor diet. 

Moreover experts say we may also be missing some lesser known causes that contribute to a decline in cognitive health and impact our chance for better and happier aging.  One of those things is too much negative thinking. The AARP reports several studies have found older adults who are more prone to negative thoughts and spend more time ruminating on slights and grudges are more likely to show a decline in memory and cognitive thinking. Researchers reported study participants who engaged in more negative thinkers had more amyloid and tau deposits in their brain, the biological markers of Alzheimer’s disease.  

While we all experience negative thoughts from time to time, it becomes a problem when a person is way too focused on negative thoughts but there are things we can do to change this habit. One step is to make time to feel grateful each day or practice mindfulness using deep breathing exercises. Additionally experts say it helps to find fun things to do like start a new hobby or learn a new skill. 

Another thing that can keep our brains sharp is to get routine vaccines. A recent study showed adults over age 65 who had received at least one flu shot, were 40 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Another study showed a 25 to 30 percent reduction in Alzheimer’s risk for seniors who have had a pneumonia vaccination.

Other health habits helping to keep the brain sharp include a good night’s sleep, good oral care and moderating alcohol intake. Talk to your healthcare provider if you notice ongoing memory and cognition problems.  

The MorningStar of Littleton community has 65 assisted living suites in a choice of studio and one- or two-bedroom floorplans, and 20 Alzheimers care suites in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. Our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Contact us to set up an in-person tour to experience the finest senior living Littleton, CO families count on. 

Source: .aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2021/habits-that-hurt-brain-health.html?dicbo=v2-tFYbbWJ&intcmp=Outbrain&obref=obnetwork   

Looking for Companionship? Maybe a Pet is the Answer

Study after study reports elderly people who are pet owners, say they are the better for it. According to a recent Forbes magazine article, the number one benefit pets provide seniors with is “unconditional love.”  A whooping eighty-three percent of surveyed participants agree, and another 73 percent said their pet makes them feel loved. The good feelings pets give to seniors was even high in those who live with others. 

Other surveys of seniors found pets gave them a sense of purpose. Others said they derived joy just from interacting with a pet even if they didn’t own it. Some seniors expressed they enjoy having a pet visit their home or interact with one while visiting family or friends. 

In terms of what animals were most popular, dogs were a somewhat higher choice than cats; but some seniors had both. Experts say most people other than someone with very limited mobility can become a dog owner. However before you make a commitment to a dog; it makes sense to research breeds that do not require a lot of exercise. To this end, it might be better to adopt an older dog rather than trying to raise a puppy. Smaller dogs are generally considered easier and there are several breeds known to be low-maintenance, easy to train and only require a daily walk. 

By their nature and their needs, cats are typically much easier than dogs. They are wonderful companions and don’t need to be walked. If you dislike the idea of pet hair around the house, opt for a short-haired cat. Most cats are pretty independent, can live inside, and are quieter than a dog. Generally they only need to interact with their owners twenty or thirty minutes a day. Other pets suitable for seniors in alzheimers care are birds, reptiles and fish. 

Sometimes being a pet owner is one of the things that make seniors reluctant to move to senior living. At MorningStar of Littleton, we know seniors do not want to leave behind their furry four-footed family member and we welcome pets (see our website for our pet policy).

 Our community offers 65 stylish private suites in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedrooms. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers Alzheimers care with 20 recently renovated suites.  Call us to set up a tour as we are eager to show you around our beautiful community; and excited for you to meet our team and resident-heroes.

Understanding & Living with Alzheimer’s Disease

While a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s for yourself or a loved one is hard to hear, it is important to take the steps to become informed because what we do early-on can help guide future decisions. The Alzheimer’s Association is a great resource to become familiar with and offers topics ranging from Alzheimer’s symptoms to caregiving and medical breakthroughs. It also is one of the biggest fundraising organizations and supports the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” and the “Longest Day” activities. 

Experts say it is important to remember you are not alone. Over six million people in the US are living with Alzheimer’s and millions more know someone with the disease. Although everyone experiences the disease in their own unique way, understanding the major stages of the disease helps families navigate this unexpected journey. 

Alzheimer’s 5 distinct stages include: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI); Mild; Moderate; Severe; and Very Severe. Symptoms can vary from person to person but the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease have some common characteristics and it helps to be prepared. 

To help negate the feeling of being a complete victim of your circumstances, studies show there are lifestyle changes you can make in the early stages to help improve brain health. These include exercising and eating a healthy diet as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. This is also the time to think about future financial, medical and legal decisions. 

The early stages are additionally the time to build a support network and to stay engaged with friends and family. Get in the habits of using memory aids such as sticky notes or digital aids for your appointments and activities. If you find you are getting confused paying bills, keeping track of medications or having a hard time making appointments, ask for help. 

Be sure to keep up with all your doctor appointments including adding Alzheimer’s specialists to your healthcare team. Ask your doctors about local organizations and services that may be helpful to you and your family now and later. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, we provide senior living Littleton, CO families can count on. Our community offers 65 assisted living suites across three-stories, with a choice of spacious suites in studio and one-and-two-bedroom options. For seniors with dementia-related diseases, we provide a level of Alzheimers care that is all-encompassing. Contact us to learn more, and to set up a tour to see our community firsthand. 

The Information Most Important to Include on Your Medical Records

We have all had the experience of sitting in the waiting room of a doctor’s office with a clipboard or tablet loaded with forms ready to be filled out. You may wonder why as you have already filled out similar forms at your other healthcare providers, and maybe even at this office.

Experts say it is good to remember there are several reasons why you are being asked for your medical history again. To start with, your health may have changed. Additionally not all doctor offices have access to the same digital information; or it may not have been updated. Another thing is a specialist may be looking for different information not typically collected by your primary care physician. Remember your refusal to answer questions could make it harder for your doctor to see the full picture of your problem; or at the very least make you look uncooperative. Dr. Robert Shmerling, a rheumatologist and senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing, agrees you are not obligated to fill out your medical history but says the response from the practice might be, ‘How can we provide the best care if you don’t provide the information?”

So what is the most important information to include? The Harvard Health Publishing article highlights the most useful things to make sure your healthcare provider knows. This includes letting them know about: 

• chronic or new symptoms and conditions

• past surgeries

• family medical history

• insurance information

• current prescription and over-the counter medicines, supplements, vitamins, and any herbal remedies or complementary medicines you use

• medication allergies

• vaccination history

• any screening tests you’ve had, so they won’t be prescribed unnecessarily

• any metal implants you have, which could affect screenings.   

If you are worried about giving out so much personal information, remember the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), a federal law, protects your health information with very strict rules about who can access it and how it can be shared. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, we provide senior living that allows residents to safely and comfortably age in place. Our community has 65 stylish private assisted living suites in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedrooms. MorningStar proudly offers holistic Alzheimers care Littleton, CO families can trust to meet their loved one’s every need. Please contact us for availability and ask about our Move-in Specials. Join us for a presentation on “Understanding Dementia” on Wednesday, August 14, 3:30–4:30pm. 

Source:  health.harvard.edu/blog/what-another-medical-form-to-fill-out-202404223035

Tips to Improve Night Blindness

Many older adults complain about being unable to see clearly while driving at night. Experts explain that night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, makes it difficult to see well in dim or dark settings as the person’s eyes are unable to adjust to changes in brightness or to detect lights. Driving at night with this condition is not only a problem but is dangerous, and is more common in seniors. 

The condition is caused when the iris, the colored part of the eye, and the retina aren’t working well together. The iris has muscles that widen or narrow the opening of the pupil to adjust how much light enters the eyes. The retina has light-detecting cones and rods, which manage vision in dim light. When the irises’ muscles don’t react well; pupils can dilate and let in too much light or remain too small and make it hard to see in dim light.   

A number of things can exacerbate night blindness including something we cannot control – old age. Dr. Isabel Deakins, an optometrist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear, explains as we age, “”The number of rods in our eyes diminishes, pupils get smaller, and the muscles of the irises weaken.”

Other conditions that can cause night blindness include glaucoma, cataracts, dry eye syndrome and certain medications. There are treatments for glaucoma, cataracts and dry eyes. For other people, a stronger pair of glasses or ones that reduce glare may help. 

Other strategies to improve night vision are to routinely clean the windshield, side mirrors and headlights. If you wear glasses, make sure they are clean. Be sure to dim the interior dashboard lights for night driving and use the night setting for the rear view mirror. If you are having trouble seeing in dim or dark settings, you need to stop driving and make an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. 

MorningStar of Littleton provides the finest assisted living and Alzheimers care Littleton, CO families can trust. Situated at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, we are minutes from some of the area’s top medical facilities such as St. Anthony Hospital & Swedish Medical Center. Our residents enjoy scheduled transportation services making it easy to get to medical appointments and run errands. Contact us to learn more availability and our range of amenities and programs that continue to make us a top choice for senior living. 

A Special Robot Offers Assistance to People with MCI

CARMEN, which is short for Cognitively Assistive Robot for Motivation and Neurorehabilitation, is a small, tabletop robot designed to help people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).  Recently the University of California introduced the world to CARMEN as a way to help people learn skills to improve memory, attention, and executive functioning at home.

What sets CARMEN apart from other robots is it was created in partnership with clinicians, people with MCI and their care providers. Researchers say they think the robot is one of a kind in terms of teaching compensatory cognitive strategies designed to improve memory and executive function.

Experts estimate MCI affects up to 20% of adults 65 years or older, and of that number, 15% of people with the condition transition to dementia each year. Currently scientists say while we do not have medical treatments to slow or prevent this from happening, behavioral treatments can help.

Working one-on-one with individuals, CARMEN delivers a series of simple, easy-to-do cognitive training exercises. One example is teaching users to create routine places to leave important objects like keys, cellphone and other commonly misplaced items. CARMEN also emphasizes strategies such as taking notes to remember things. 

The learning process is accomplished through a set of interactive games and activities designed to be done independently without the help of a clinician’s or researcher’s supervision. This meant the robot was built as a plug and play device without a lot of parts requiring maintenance. Another important difference in how CARMEN is designed is it is meant to function with limited access to the Internet and not depend on a reliable connection. CARMEN also expresses empathy and compassion for the person’s situation as well as communicates clearly.     

Early results with CARMEN had participants reporting the learned strategies helped them feel more confidence in their everyday life, and they were now willing to attempt things they had previously stopped doing. Researchers say the hope is to get more robots in the hands of users and fine-tune robots to address even more issues for people with MCI and other conditions such as ADHD.  

At the MorningStar of Littleton assisted living and memory care community, we engage residents routinely to provide physical, mental and social stimulation as well as good, old-fashioned fun. Our community offers a wide selection of suites to meet a range of preferences, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. Contact us to learn more about stylish senior living as well as the most trusted Alzheimers care Littleton, CO offers.   

Source: sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240624125640.htm

Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

Every year the month of June is the time to promote Alzheimer’s Awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association encourages people to wear purple, the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement, as a way to show support and encourage others to join in the effort to end Alzheimer’s.

There are several ways you can volunteer throughout the year to help raise both awareness as well as funds. This includes making a donation yourself, volunteering at your local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and participating and supporting the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. During this summer solstice in June, join in or start your own Longest Day event with fundraising and celebrations to find a cure.   

There is still no cure for Alzheimer’s but it is important to let your doctor know if you recognize any signs of Alzheimer’s in yourself or a loved one as early intervention can provide a range of benefits for someone who is diagnosed. These include access to treatments that offer better results when taken in the early stages of the disease. It also gives the person time to plan for their future as well as the opportunity to participate in clinical trials. An early diagnosis lets a person prioritize what is important in their life. 

Another good reason to find out what is happening to the person is they can take  advantage of some lifestyle changes that are known to lessen our risk for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, exercising, and staying mentally and socially active, has all been linked to preserving cognitive function.

At the MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, we are dedicated to promoting quality of life for our assisted living and Alzheimers care residents. In service to the memory-impaired, our MorningStar community is proud to host uplifting celebrations and fundraisers on “The Longest Day” (summer solstice), a designated day of awareness established by the Alzheimer’s Association. Please contact us to learn more about suite selections, luxury amenities and an array of wellness programs and activities at the most trusted senior living Littleton, CO offers.   

Simple Things can Improve Our Health

Medical experts from the Harvard School of Medicine explain even small steps can make a positive change in our wellness journey. Many of their recommendations can be done daily without much time or effort.

The first tip is to start the morning with a full body stretch to help improve circulation and wake up the body. Before getting out of bed, flex your lower limbs several times. Then bend your knees and raise your legs. Flex and rotate each foot a couple of times.  From a sitting position, turn your head from side to side a few times and rotate your shoulders. Extend your arms out and rotate your hands.   

To maintain your dental health, floss your teeth every day. Experts say the proper way to floss is to wrap the floss around each tooth and slide it up and down a couple of times against the tooth rather than using a sawing motion. Now do the tooth on the other side. Another easy healthy habit to get into is to drink a glass of water when you get up each morning, and then drink one with each meal. Apply a sunscreen of at least an SPF 30 each morning after you wash your face to help prevent skin cancer. 

As you can see, staying healthy doesn’t always require a lot of time. A few quick physical tricks include every time you stand up, sit right back down and do it again. Think about your posture and make an effort to put your shoulder back and stand straight. When you brush your teeth, suck in your abdomen and hold for a few seconds. If you have been sitting for a while, take a quick walk around or incorporate a dance step into your movements. Doing a few pushups or squats is also a good way to wake up your body.  

Research shows socializing impacts a person’s overall wellness so make a point to get out and spend time with your family and friends. Get in the habit of cultivating new interests or hobbies. Joining things like a book club or cooking class can be both mentally stimulating and socially invigorating.   

At MorningStar of Littleton, we provide residents’ a lifestyle to keep them as busy as they like. Along with luxury amenities and well-designed suites, our wellness programs and activities are tailored to a variety of interests. However we believe it is our atmosphere of love that contributes most to health and wellness or our community. Our community offers assisted living and Alzheimers care Littleton CO families can trust.      

Common Challenges in Alzheimer’s Care

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease can be a time-consuming job. As the disease is progressive and symptoms worsen over time, the person’s needs also evolve. Things they used to do for themselves may no longer be possible or safe. Moreover experts say like many older adults, a person with Alzheimer’s is likely to experience health changes over time. Therefore it is important he/she continues to get routine checkups with their primary care physician as well as with any specialists they may be seeing.

The National Institute on Aging (NIH) says some of the problems caregivers should look for are signs of fever, or sickness like the flu or pneumonia. They say a fever could be signs of infection, dehydration caused by lack of fluids, heat stroke or even constipation. When taking a person’s temperature, use a digital thermometer rather than a glass one as the person might bite down on the glass and break it. Let their doctor know right away if they do have a fever. To help prevent serious illness from flu or pneumonia, have the person get a yearly flu shot and a pneumonia vaccine after age 65. 

Dehydration can occur in people with Alzheimer’s as they may forget to drink fluids throughout the day. Caregivers should look for signs of dry mouth, dizziness and rapid heart rate. Experts say dehydration can even cause hallucinations, however they may be a result of Alzheimer’s. 

As the disease progresses, the person will most likely need help brushing their teeth. It is important to look for any sores in the mouth or oblivious signs of dental problems. 

NIH cautions caregivers to be on the lookout for signs of pain as the person may not have the ability to tell you. They recommend watching the person’s face for outward signs of pain, or sudden changes in their behavior such as yelling or striking out. If you are not sure what is happening, call their doctor for help.  

MorningStar of Littleton’s distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers alzheimers care that families can trust to provide for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. Our assisted living is designed to provide carefree retirement years with a myriad of hospitality and alzheimers care services, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities. Contact us to learn more about the finest alzheimers care Littleton, CO offers. 

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving/alzheimers-disease-common-medical-problems

Unparalleled Alzheimer’s Care and Senior Living in Littleton, CO

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of memory impairment requires specialized expertise, unwavering compassion, and a nurturing environment. MorningStar of Littleton, located in Littleton, CO, stands out as a beacon of excellence in Alzheimer's care and senior living. At MorningStar of Littleton, families choose our esteemed community for their loved ones needing memory care because of our staff, team members’ expertise, and top Alzheimer’s care qualifications.
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As you walk through the doors of MorningStar of Littleton, you will be greeted by a team of highly qualified professionals who deeply understand Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. Our staff members at MorningStar of Littleton undergo extensive training and education in Alzheimer's care, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide exemplary memory care services in Littleton, CO.

Our dedicated Memory Care team comprises seasoned professionals with gerontology, psychology, and nursing backgrounds. Team members at MorningStar possess specialized certifications in dementia care, ensuring they are equipped to handle the unique challenges associated with memory impairment. MorningStar of Littleton's staff is well-versed in providing the highest standard of Alzheimer's care in the Littleton, CO, area.

MorningStar of Littleton recognizes that no two individuals experience memory impairment similarly. Our community and staff’s approach to Alzheimer's care is person-centered. This approach means our community devises individualized care plans that address each resident's needs, preferences, and abilities. MorningStar of Littleton is committed to providing a personalized Alzheimer's care community in Littleton, CO, that enhances the well-being and quality of life of your family members and loved ones.

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

To learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Littleton, contact our staff, who are happy to answer any questions. 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.

This Holistic Trend in Alzheimer’s Care Focuses on the Individual

The holistic trend in Alzheimer’s care focuses on a person-centered approach to dementia treatment that uses positive reinforcement to meet the emotional needs of seniors and creates a sense of trust and understanding between caregiver and the individual. Creating a comfortable, safe, and nonjudgmental space is necessary for this type of holistic treatment to be successful. MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s care is the very best in senior living that Littleton, Colorado has seen. MorningStar is a senior living community focused on holistic treatment of dementia and other memory loss diseases through their specialized holistic ideology, Lavender Sky.

MorningStar developed the philosophy of Lavender Sky. This mantra is a holistic form of dementia and Alzheimer’s care that is dedicated to helping residents affected by memory loss and their families find a place of peace and purpose through a three-tiered ambition to serve the memory-impaired. MorningStar explores a person’s life, history, and preferences to offer personalized care and explore ways to involve and engage family members, knowing our service is as much to them as to the residing senior.

Wellness can be defined as a comprehensive, holistic strength to MorningStar Senior Living Littleton, Colorado. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment, wellness is seen as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life. Creative solutions are met as we partner with you in pursuit of your highest goals for whole-person wellness. Our scope of clinical services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health, extending the stay of residents even as health conditions change.

Contact us today if you want to know more of the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and the security that comes from residing in an assisted living community focused on Alzheimer’s care. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Littleton Co takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

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

Vitamins Every Senior Should Take

If you’re asking if you should start taking a dietary supplement or incorporating more foods that are rich in vitamins, the answer is probably yes. Usually, our bodies receive nutrients from the foods we eat. Therefore it is so important to eat healthy, fresh foods that are high in essential vitamins. People aged 55 and up may be in more need of some vitamins and minerals than younger adults do. As always, speak with your doctor or practitioner before changing your dietary routine. Here are some vitamins seniors should consider adding to their diet for optimal health benefits. 

Did you know people in the United States consume less than 50 percent of the recommended dose of Vitamin D? Vitamin D is often known to be found in eggs, fatty fish like salmon, yogurt, and certain types of milk. Vitamin D helps the body absorb and retain the minerals that are critical for building bones and keeping them strong. Studies have found vitamin D to reduce cancer cell growth, help infections, and reduce inflammation in the bodies of seniors.

Vitamin B12 is a seriously important vitamin and is often overlooked. This crucial element helps keep your red blood cells and nerves healthy. Some seniors have trouble absorbing B12 which is found naturally in certain foods. Doctors advise that you eat foods like fortified cereals that add this vitamin or take a B12 supplement. Strict vegetarians and vegans are at greater risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency because popular food sources of vitamin B12 usually come from animals. Talk with your doctor or community director about whether taking a B12 supplement is right for you.

MorningStar of Littleton’s Assisted Living and Memory Care proudly brings the finest senior living Littleton CO has to offer with modern retirement homes and assisted living that incorporates resort-style amenities such as providing residents with three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our dining room. MorningStar of Littleton’s Assisted Living and Memory Care offers extracurricular activities such as a gym, community rooms for socialization, and a salon available for all residents to use. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living options in Littleton CO. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Colorado. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Littleton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

These Subtle and Vague Signs May be Early Symptoms of Dementia

With age, we become more forgetful and may start to feel scatterbrained. Misplacing items or forgetting to do small errands is not an immediate cause for concern with old age. However, caregivers of an elderly loved one may fail to recognize the other subtle symptoms of forgetfulness that indicates that something is wrong. These symptoms develop gradually and can go unnoticed for a long time until it becomes serious. 

We often misplace our keys and wallet in our day-to-day life, and we don’t usually consider it a serious need for medical attention. Seniors who are in the early stages of dementia may not only lose their keys and wallet but will forget what these items are used for all together. They may forget that they need their keys to get into their home and leave the house without locking the door. Seniors with early symptoms of dementia can become confused as to how to use their keys and will experience frustration and anger. Leaving your senior loved one without the proper safety measures within their home could lead to them becoming lost or put into a dangerous situation. 

It's easy to become annoyed when we get older. The pace of the world stays the same while our bodies slow down, technology and ideas are constantly changing, and world events can become tiring to stay up to date with. A little bit of agitation is understandable. An early symptom a loved one may experience if they are going through the early stages of dementia will be a complete change in personality that is startling or unfamiliar. Maybe they become easily angered over small situations, use more vulgar language, or behave differently towards the people that they love. Keeping an eye on your loved one's form of communication is a good way to gauge when it may be time to see a healthcare professional. 

MorningStar of Littleton’s Assisted Living and Memory Care proudly brings the finest senior living Littleton CO has to offer with modern retirement homes and assisted living that incorporates resort-style amenities such as providing residents with three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our dining room. MorningStar of Littleton’s Assisted Living and Memory Care offers extracurricular activities such as a gym, community rooms for socialization, and a salon available for all residents to use. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living options in Littleton CO. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Colorado.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Littleton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

A Recognized Leader in Dementia Care

Currently, there is no cure for dementia or Alzheimer's. The absence of medical relief for memory loss leaves families discouraged and anxious about the well-being of their loved ones or elderly parents. Handling this diagnosis alone can also be overwhelming and can lead to periods of depression in the caretaker. If you are trying to find the right care for your loved one with Alzheimer's, the uncharted territory of the disease may have you feeling in over your head. Due to their refusal to give up the quest to find successful dementia care methods, MorningStar's Senior Living in Littleton has been recognized as a leader in dementia care by the Alzheimer’s Association. 

The Alzheimer’s Association established a program called “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” To be considered for this program, a senior living community is required to enroll 75% of its staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals. Colorado is the only Alzheimer's Association chapter in the country offering this program. MorningStar invests strong commitments, moral values, and ethics into their employees to serve residents with the very best senior care. MorningStar's Senior Living in Littleton, Colorado, is proud to have earned this special recognition of expertise in serving the memory impaired.

At MorningStar, embracing dementia and other forms of memory loss starts by customizing and individualizing treatment for each of our residents in memory care. The needs of seniors in memory care will change as time goes on. Ample flexibility and attentiveness to needs allow for comfort and patience during difficult situations. When senior living communities better understand their residents, there is a greater understanding of how Dementia and memory loss portray themselves.

As specialists in memory care, MorningStar’s Senior Living in Littleton, Co is aware of the mental pain and frustration that is associated with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases. Regardless of the barrier within your loved ones' memory loss, they continue the communication and do not shy away from difficulties. Incorporating holistic methods of care enhances the overall health and happiness of seniors in Alzheimers care. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care and senior living in Littleton, Colorado. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Colorado.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Littleton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.