How to Stay Safe this Summer for Seniors

May 30, 2025 by Quinn A in senior living

Rising temperatures in the summer can cause a lot of worry. While high temps and sun exposure can be dangerous for everyone, MorningStar Assisted Living reminds us how important it is to not forget senior safety during the summer months.

Seniors are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. With the summer quickly approaching, it’s important to be observant of the symptoms and warning signs of heat related illnesses and how you can best help seniors stay safe this summer.

Heat Risks for Seniors

While we can all be affected by the sun’s harsh rays, seniors have an increasingly more difficult time navigating the summer. Spending too much time in the heat can be a serious concern and should be taken seriously by caregivers. Due to aging, seniors have reduced sweat production and may struggle with underlying conditions that make it hard for their bodies to self regulate. Some common symptoms of heat-related illnesses include dizziness, confusion, rapid heart rate, nausea, headaches, red skin, and even fainting.

Staying Cool

It’s hard to not enjoy the summer. Even seniors want to have fun in the sun! If you plan on being outside with a senior loved one this year, there are some important tips on staying cool. Be mindful of what time you go outdoors, with highest temps often being in the early afternoon. If you must be outside at this time, pack plenty of water, and dress in loose, breathable clothing. Seniors usually like to bring a hat and sunglasses. Minimize full sun exposure when possible by taking breaks in shaded areas or going into air conditioned places. While it might not keep you cool, sunscreen is crucial for seniors to protect their skin.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar.

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent living in Des Moines, IA.

How Senior Living Communities Keep Residents Active and Engaged

February 07, 2025 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Retirement can be a lonely experience for some seniors, especially those struggling with health concerns or mobility. We are used to making friends through work, school, outside hobbies, and faith-based activities. However, various factors impede the ability for seniors to make friends as easily as they once had. Whatever the case may be, finding friends may become a little harder without some extra help.

Active senior living communities provide a valuable solution for seniors looking to make new friendships. Senior living that encourages social outings and experiences helps seniors feel relaxed and supported while making new friends and establishing themselves in groups and hobbies.

MorningStar Senior Living offers one of the most active senior living communities, with various clubs, amenities, and social events for seniors aged 55 and up to explore their passions and find fulfillment. Keep reading to see how our senior living community keeps residents active and engaged:

Group Outings

Seniors can explore beyond their community at MorningStar with regular day trips and outings. While many seniors appreciate the comfort of their private apartment, it’s still great to get out and explore the city. Regular group outings and day trips offer seniors the chance to socialize and experience the world outside of their community with friends and family. Art museums, movie theatres, and community gardens are all great experiences for a day trip.

Creating Lasting Relationships

Shared spaces and community-organized activities are a big help when it comes to making new friends and maintaining friendships. At MorningStar, seniors can utilize the shared living spaces to fuel their hobbies and start groups or clubs. Many participate in chess clubs, book clubs, or simply get together to share a meal at the bistro!

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community and make new friends. Our senior living community proudly hosts numerous volunteer opportunities for seniors in Des Moines. Whether it’s helping with the community garden, organizing fundraisers, or participating in faith-based volunteer initiatives, there are plenty of ways to give back while meeting like-minded peers.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

Top 4 Easy Hobbies for Seniors to Try this Year

December 18, 2024 by Quinn A in Senior Living

Retirement offers seniors a lot of time to slow-down, relax, and contemplate their wants and goals for the rest of their lives. While many seniors still remain active, they now have the time to learn new hobbies and skills. Senior living communities are great places for seniors to learn about their passions and interests. Whether you want to explore these hobbies alone or in a groupo, MorningStar Senior Living encourages every one to try some of these easy hobbies for seniors!

Bird Watching

Seniors find bird watching a very rewarding experience. Not only do you get to spend some time outdoors, but bird watching can even be done with friends or in a group. It doesn’t take much to begin to feel connected with nature. Just grab a pair of binoculars and an easy bird guide and you can begin to identify all sorts of birds right outside your home. The relaxation and excitement is enough to keep seniors feeling energized and amazed.

Puzzles and Board Games

Table-top games don’t have to be boring. In fact, seniors find that puzzles and other board games help them feel sharp as they exercise their brain. Board games can be individual or done in a group, which is great for seniors in active senior living communities that enjoy building friendships and socializing.

Mindful Coloring Exercises

Many adults and seniors enjoy coloring. Mindfulness techniques like coloring is very popular for seniors as it allows them to relax and express their creativity. It is often a low-cost hobby, too. You can explore many different types of coloring books to find the right fit for you!

Gardening

Many of our senior living communities actually have an on-site community garden. This makes gardening a very popular hobby around MorningStar Senior Living. You can work in the garden with others or spend some time on your own checking in on your veggies and fruits. Growing your own food and plants is an incredible feeling that leaves seniors feeling proud.