Worried it Might be Alzheimer’s?

Since it is true our brains may not function as well as they did when we were younger, not all brain changes are a sign of Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. It may simply be a sign that as our bodies move slower with age, so do our brains.

A recent AARP article highlighted memory problems that can be a part of normal aging as well as problems that should be brought to the attention of your healthcare provider. One example discussed was the difference between getting lost or confused in a familiar location as opposed to getting lost the first time you go to a new place. Experts say the former is concerning and could be a sign of a problem as it goes beyond normal aging. Also if you find yourself forgetting where you are at times or how you got there, tell your doctor.

Another worrying sign can be repeating the same story or asking the same questions over and over again. The person probably doesn’t remember repeating themselves; if they did, they wouldn’t do it. This is why if a spouse or friend tells you are constantly repeating yourself, add it to the list to mention to your doctor. 

Forgetting appointments can be normal when it happens once in a while but concerning if it happens all the time. Moreover there is a difference between forgetting a planned activity until reminded about it or forgetting the activity was ever planned in the first place. Other signs it could be dementia include not being able to complete tasks you used to do or not being able to multi-task like you once did. 

Normal forgetfulness includes things like forgetting a person’s name and then remembering it later; or not sure what day it is but later it comes to you that it is Sunday. In addition as the brain’s processing speed begins to slow down, it is normal to take a longer time to learn something new.  

The MorningStar of Littleton Assisted Living and Memory Care community is designed to provide carefree retirement years and includes a myriad of hospitality and senior care services, best-in-class dining and luxury amenities. Our signature wellness programs and activities enhance mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections. MorningStar’s 65 assisted living suites are available in studio and one-and-two-bedroom configurations; and Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive Alzheimer’s care. Please ask about our special deal: April “Tax Holiday on Us” Free Rent. Call for more details regarding the finest senior living Littleton, CO offers. 

Source: stayingsharp.aarp.org/articles/dementia-cause-worry/

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?

Christmas Gifts Sure to be a Hit

We all know how hard it is to buy Christmas or Hanukah gifts for the person in your life who has everything, or is limited on space without the room for yet one more item. This is where gift cards can be greatly appreciated, and with a little bit of research, you can find something for even your most hard to buy family member. 

While everyone loves a gift card to an already favorite restaurant or a new one in town, gift cards can also be found for a whole lot of other things. If you are absolutely stumped by what to get, you could settle for a preloaded VISA (or another brand) card that enables the person to shop wherever a VISA card is accepted. Experts say purchasing a virtual card to send through a person’s email account eliminates the risk of a physical card being tampered with, and stick to trusted online retailers. A virtual gift card is also a solution for last minute procrastinators, as they arrive quickly in a person’s inbox. 

The Internet provides some unique ideas such as purchasing a MasterClass coupon to a class you know the person has an interest in. With a library of over 200+ classes, the selection ranges from developing better business skills, cultivating a healthy lifestyle, or learning a new talent. For example, get a person who loves to cook a class taught by a renowned chef. If singing or playing an instrument is more their thing, they will welcome a class with a professional musician or singing coach. 

For music lovers or gamers a Google Play, Apple or Steam card should be a hit. For your glamour girl, a gift card to Sephora or another of the beauty stores is sure to be redeemed. Big department stores like Nordstrom or Bloomingdale’s also offer gift cards and the selection of what can be bought is extensive. How about movie or play tickets to your local theatre? Once you start researching your choices, you are sure to find the perfect size gift. 

At MorningStar of Littleton, we provide trusted senior living Littleton, CO families with 65 assisted living suites and 20 Alzheimers care suites in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. Amenities include 5-star dining, a bistro, fireside patio, massage room, spa bath and a tropical aquarium. Please contact us to set up a personalized tour of our beautiful community.  

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   

We Help Vet to Get the Benefits They Deserve

At the MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, we have veterans from various branches of the military and are honored to serve them. As one of our team members eloquently said, “Seniors speak powerfully to the fact that freedom comes at a cost. It requires that you choose to do the right thing which almost always includes sacrifice. Whether it’s time, money or comfort, those who came before us chose to sacrifice to build a better society.” 

When we meet a potential resident who is a veteran or a surviving spouse of a vet, and in need of assisted living; we are pleased to direct them to the company, ElderLife Financial.  They have the expertise to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance,” which is a benefit offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Aid & Attendance benefits are a tax-free pension paid directly to a qualified veteran or their spouse in the form of monthly payments, which is subject to change annually.

The National Care Planning Council estimates up to 25% of seniors could potentially apply for Aid & Attendance. These benefits can be used toward care in an assisted living community such as MorningStar of Littleton. Check out our website as we have a whole page explaining the benefit, a quick 5-minute test to see if you qualify, and contact numbers for more answers and information. 

If you think you would love to hear more about our vibrant community, please contact us. We would love to set up a tour and meet with you to discuss availability, amenities and wellness programs and activities. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers 20 all-inclusive suites for the trusted Alzheimers care. 

This August, MorningStar Senior Living celebrated 21 years of dedicated service. Our communities are spread across the Western US, and through the years we have served 15,500 residents and have a team 3,000 strong. Our brand’s hallmark is built on a mission statement: to honor God, value all seniors, and invest generously. We believe in casting a new light on senior care and stand on God’s principles for how we are to live and serve each other. We look forward to hearing from you.

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

A Person’s Gait may Signal Early Signs of Alzheimer’s

Several new studies including one from the journal Current Biology, report the way a senior walks may be messaging something about their future cognitive health. Researchers say walking relies on a person’s navigational skills, which demands mental engagement. 

A slowing of a person’s walking pace is one of the things studies are looking into as an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s. People may start to take smaller steps and drift from side to side as well as exhibit poor balance and a history of frequent falls.  Ryan Glatt, a certified personal trainer, senior brain health coach, and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in California, told Medical News Today, “In clinical settings, gait-based tests can be helpful for determining fall risk, especially with distractions, and perhaps can be part of a more comprehensive cognitive evaluation in the near future.”

Other studies report people with early Alzheimer’s have difficulty turning when walking. Researchers say the problem was not detected in older, healthy participants who suffered from mild cognitive impairment, suggesting the problem is specific to Alzheimer’s. Glatt explained the reason might be connected to changes in the hippocampus, a region of the brain partially responsible for spatial memory that helps to control visuospatial navigation.

Another early warning sign of Alzheimer’s is an altered sense of a person’s environmental perceptions. For example, a person may struggle to understand objects, and become confused by thinking something is 2D when it is really 3D; or vice versa.  

Dr. Jonathan Fellows, who leads the Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorder Center, adds, “Observation of gait is an important assessment in the diagnosis of various dementias, including Alzheimer disease, as patients with this disorder can have what is called dyspraxia, or difficulty doing a previously learned task – in this case walking or turning.” Researchers explain some of the problems that appear to be specific to Alzheimer’s might allow doctors to diagnose patients earlier; and without the need for blood, spinal fluid or speech tests.  

At MorningStar of Littleton, we offer experienced, compassionate Alzheimers care along with assisted living. Our Reflections Neighborhood is distinct from the rest of our community and has been named an “Alzheimer’s Association Leader in Dementia Care.” All of our suites include emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Contact us to learn more about the most trusted senior living Littleton, CO offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/walking-difficulties-could-be-an-early-sign-of-alzheimers-disease#Why-walking-may-be-difficult-for-people-with-Alzheimers

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

Sleep Management Options for Alzheimer’s

We all know how it feels to not get a full night of rest. Not sleeping enough makes us groggy, grouchy, and less suited to take on the day. If missing out on sleep impairs our cognitive capabilities, imagine what sleep disturbances can cause for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. 

The Importance of Healthy Sleep Habits in Alzheimer’s Care

Sleep, and its quality, plays a huge role in the health of seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Seniors with memory impairment often struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep, which poses a huge risk for their health. Adequate sleep not only helps seniors feel well-rested, but it promotes full-body healing in a multitude of ways. If you are looking for Alzheimer’s care in Littleton, Colorado, consider a senior living community that values healthy sleep habits for the following reasons: 

Emotional Regulation

Sleep encourages mood stability and this is essential for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Symptoms of memory loss diseases often make individuals more irritable and less responsive. Throwing a lack of sleep into the mix can increase difficult moods and behaviors. 

Brain Health

Once we fall asleep, the brain undergoes necessary processes to repair itself. Sleep triggers the brain to begin strengthening important neural pathways, encouraging learning and memory advancement and recall. The brain also cleans out toxins and waste while we sleep, removing proteins and byproducts that can potentially cause harm if too much sleep is impacted. 

Physical Well-being 

If Alzheimer’s or dementia impacts sleep too much, it can actually begin to impact other areas of a senior’s health. The lack of sleep can lead to weakened immunity, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. 

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.

The Profound Benefits of Reminiscence Therapy in Alzheimer’s Care

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

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

What is Reminiscence Therapy?

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

Cognitive Stimulation and Memory Recall

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

Improved Communication and Behavior

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

Find Trusted Alzheimer’s Care Quickly with MorningStar

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

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

Helping Your Parent With Medication Management

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking at least one or more prescription medications daily. In fact, the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.” Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interactions, an area of special concern for the elderly.
​
Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state almost 450,000 older adults (65 years old or older) visit the emergency room each year because of adverse, or harmful, drug events. Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “take on an empty stomach,” and the adverse side effects.

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

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

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

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

Residents Enjoy Delicious Meals at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows in Colorado Springs, we understand the importance of gathering as a community to “break bread” each day. We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.

We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why MorningStar meals are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Menu offerings are designed by our Executive Chef and include daily and weekly specials as well as a la carte items. Dining is available all day which means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule.

As a resident, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as those we enjoy at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Also, our Chef modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes. Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar-free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows also believes that nutrient-rich ingredients can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health. Therefore, we prepare meals using BrainWise super foods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts and other foods high in Omega 3 fats.

For our memory care residents, food is as much about Community as it is about Nutrition. To encourage appetites, our team members sit and share meals with residents, and many are served “family style” as they are in private homes. Much of our food is modified out of respect for residents’ somewhat compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.

Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. We have 45 stylish suites for assisted living and another 19 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For more information about outstanding memory care or assisted living in Colorado Springs, please visit our website.

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