Start Your Day at Your Best

While we may think we don’t have a morning routine, typically there is a way we start our morning whether it is drinking a cup of coffee and reading the morning news to perhaps doing some exercise. Whatever your routine, experts say adding a few healthy additions to our mornings can start our day off even better.   

Since many of us don’t drink as much water as we should each day, one suggestion is to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. This helps to not only rehydrate your body after a night’s sleep but goes a long way toward meeting your daily water goal. To make it easy to do, keep a water bottle next to you on your nightstand table.

Another tip is to exercise. If you are not really a morning person, there are many examples of short, effective morning workouts on the internet. One 10 minute workout starts with doing deep breathing exercises while still in bed. Other suggestions for early exercises include a solitary walk in nature or weeding your garden. Being around nature can improve our physical health as well as provide benefits to our mental well-being. 

We have all heard the importance of starting the day with a healthy breakfast. Some good breakfast options include whole grains like oatmeal, whole-wheat toast, quinoa, or cereal as well as fruits and vegetables like berries, bananas, avocado and spinach.  Protein-packed foods include eggs, yogurt, nuts and seeds. 

Another healthy habit to start the day with is to play a brain game as it helps clear up our morning brain fog. Taking a few minutes to meditate each morning is also a good way to clear your mind and allow you to focus on the things that are important in your life. 

The MorningStar of Littleton senior living community provides trusted assisted living and memory care. Our community has 65 stylish private suites in a choice of studios and one-and-two-bedroom floorplans. In our distinct Reflections Neighborhood, our 20 suites provide specialized Alzheimer’s care that celebrates and elevates life. Contact us to schedule a personalized tour of senior living Littleton, CO families have come to count on.

Regular Screenings Help Keep Older Adults Healthier

As we age doctors recommend seniors get some additional health screenings. However certain tests may no longer be required for very elderly people so be sure to talk to your doctor about what is appropriate based on your medical history and age. 

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends adults 65 years and older get a thorough eye exam every 1-2 years as problems increase with age. Ophthalmologists warn serious diseases such as glaucoma can silently steal our vision without noticeable symptoms. An exam also looks for signs of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. 

Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for adults starting at age 50 and continuing until age 75 (if you’re older than 75, it may depend on your history). Tests include colonoscopies, fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), or flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Breast cancer screenings are recommended at age 50 to 74 every 1-2 years, or based on family history of breast cancer. For men, prostate cancer screenings recommendations vary. The American Cancer Society says, “The decision should be made after getting information about the possible benefits, risks, and uncertainties of prostate cancer screening.” 

Lung Cancer screening is recommended for people at high risk or a history of smoking. Skin cancer checks by a dermatologist are recommended for seniors at least once a year. A bone density test to screen for osteoporosis is recommended for women age 65 years and older, and for men age 70 and older. Repeat scans should generally be performed every 2 years.

As the prevalence of diabetes increases with age, diabetes screening is important. The Cleveland Clinic recommends screening for diabetes at age 45 and over, with follow-up tests every three years. Those with a BMI greater than 25 and additional risk factors may need more frequent testing.

Hearing screenings are recommended every 5 years until age 65, every 1-3 years after 65, and more frequent testing if there are risk factors or problems. Test results are used to monitor hearing changes over time and provide a picture of a person’s hearing health.  

Other routine screenings include cholesterol and blood pressure as well as annual cognitive and mental health assessments. Recommended immunizations for older adults include influenza vaccines annually, pneumococcal vaccines at age 65 (with a possible booster) and a two dose shingles vaccine over 50. For the area’s finest senior living Littleton, CO families count on, MorningStar of Littleton is honored to provide assisted living and trusted Alzheimer’s care. Our community offers residents carefree retirement years with an array of hospitality and senior care services, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities. With 65 spacious suites across three-stories, suites are available in studio and one-and-two-bedrooms. Reflections Neighborhood has 20 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of beautibeautiful senior living Littleton, CO seniors trust.

Good Mobility Helps Maintain Your Independence

Normal aging brings about a decline in our physical abilities that affect strength, stamina and speed – all associated with declining muscle mass. Harvard Health Publishing explains that there is not much decline in our muscles between the ages of 20 and 40; after age 40 there can be a decline of up to 1% to 2% per year in lean body mass and 1.5% to 5% per year in strength. 

Mobility is key to protecting our independence. Along with losing muscle mass, other common problems in older adults include poor reflexes and balance, and loss of flexibility. Fortunately there are things we can do to encourage a healthier, safer aging process. 

One of the first things is to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. One prevailing myth many older adults believe is physical activity will lead to injury or a fall. Experts say the actual truth is too much sitting causes muscle loss and decreased flexibility. For older adults, it is more important to exercise regularly to compensate for bodily changes in hormones and other factors that occur with aging. 

Strength exercises using light weights or bands can help protect bones, build muscle and improve flexibility and balance along with aerobics, stretching and special balance exercises.  These include things such as brisk walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or cardio classes. To help build strength, balance, and flexibility, consider a class in yoga, tai chi, Pilates or isometric weightlifting. 

Additionally regularly exercising not only helps maintain our mobility but is associated with a stronger heart and less occurrence of cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider or a physical therapist regarding the best exercises for your needs. The CDC recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

The contemporary MorningStar of Littleton senior living community offers 65 assisted living suites along with 20 suites devoted to Alzheimer’s care in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. Floorplans include a choice of studios or one- and two-bedrooms and are equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems and kitchenettes. MorningStar’s meaningful wellness programs and activities are designed to enhance quality of life as well as provide fun and entertainment. Contact us to schedule a personalized tour of the finest senior living Littleton, CO offers. 

Gingivitis – How to Prevent It & Treat It

Gingivitis is a common periodontal disease and can become a serious problem if allowed to go untreated. The disease attacks the tissue at the base of the teeth, called gingival tissue, and causes swelling and inflammation. It occurs when food particles and other substances are left on the gum line where sticky plaque and hard tartar forms at and below the gums.

Dr. Tien Jiang, assistant professor in oral health policy and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, says with the correct oral care gingivitis can be controlled with proper teeth brushing and routine dental cleanings. If left untreated, inflammation from gingivitis can lead to an irreversible form of gum disease called periodontitis, and damage the tissue and bones supporting the teeth. If your dentist suspects periodontitis, they can use x-rays to see how far the disease has advanced. 

Studies have linked inflammation of the gums to a higher risk of many serious diseases including heart, stroke and dementia. Poor dental hygiene like not flossing, smoking, misaligned teeth, diabetes that is not well-managed, and infections in other parts of the body can put you at higher risks for gum disease.    

While early gum disease usually does not cause symptoms, as the disease progresses; signs include sore, red, sensitive, or swollen gums. Gums that bleed when brushed or flossed, mouth sores and bad breath are other symptoms. 

Dr. Jiang says prevention and treatment begins with home care and should include twice a daily brushing and once a day flossing. Pay attention to areas where plaque tends to grow such as between the teeth and at the gum line. If your dentist visits show lots of plaque buildup, they may recommend using anti-plaque or anti-tartar toothpastes or mouth rinses. 

At the dentist office, your dentist or dental hygienist is equipped to remove plaque deposits before gingivitis can cause more serious problems. For cases where inflammation is below the gum line, they have special tools to clean the area. Your dentist office is also a good place to learn how to properly care for your teeth. 

The fashionable MorningStar of Littleton provides trusted senior living Littleton, CO families rely on. For assisted living, our 65 smartly-designed suites are available in spacious studios as well as one-and-two-bedrooms floorplans. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities such as a fireside patio; massage room, spa bath and bistro. Daily wellness programs and activities bring meaning and good, old-fashion fun to residents. Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 20 suites for all-inclusive, specialized Alzheimer’s care. Contact us to schedule an in-person tour of our beautiful senior living community. 

Source: health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/gingivitis-reversing-and-preventing-early-gum-disease

Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud

Statistics from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and other sources estimate Medicare loses approximately $60 billion annually to fraud, errors, and abuse. Experts caution anyone on Medicare is at risk for fraudulent charges and examples include:

• Billing for services or supplies that were not provided

• Providing unsolicited supplies to beneficiaries

• Misrepresenting a diagnosis, a beneficiary’s identity, the service provided, or other facts to justify payment

• Prescribing or providing excessive or unnecessary tests and services

• Violating the participating provider agreement with Medicare by refusing to bill Medicare for covered services or items and billing the beneficiary instead

• Offering or receiving a kickback (bribe) in exchange for a beneficiary’s Medicare number

• Requesting Medicare numbers at an educational presentation or in an unsolicited phone call

• Routinely waiving co-insurance or deductibles

Experts say fraudulent schemes are growing and there aren’t enough agents to keep up. The Office of Inspector General (OIG), which investigates Medicare fraud, works with a staff of approximately 450 agents for the whole country. 

If you are on Medicare, you can help prevent some of the fraud as many schemes target beneficiaries directly by stealing their identities or enlisting them as unwitting accomplices. Medicare.gov advises seniors to start by protecting their Medicare card like they would a credit card. This includes not giving out the number to anyone other than your healthcare provider or other people you know should have it. In addition, they say it is important to check your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or claims statements carefully. If you see a charge for a service you didn’t get or a product you didn’t order, it could be fraud. If you suspect fraud, report it at 1-800-MEDICARE. 

MorningStar of Littleton provides the finest senior living Littleton, CO families rely on. Our community has 65 spacious assisted living suites across three-stories in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedroom floorplans. For seniors with dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive Alzheimer’s care with 20 suites.  Contact us to set up a personalized tour to see firsthand the most trusted senior living Littleton, CO offers.

Heart Disease Awareness Month

Each February, Heart Disease Awareness Month is observed to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Along with promoting awareness of this largely preventable disease, it shows people how to take steps to protect their heart health. It also seeks to make awareness of how the disease disproportionally targets certain communities. 

During the month, the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute (NHBLI) encourages Americans to take the steps to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to prevent heart disease. These steps do not only improve heart health but help to prevent or alleviate the impact of other conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. NHBLI says the practice of heart health care can keep our hearts’ healthy. 

One of the first steps is to get more exercise as experts warn inactive people are almost twice as likely to develop heart disease than active people. For the most benefit, they recommend aiming for at least 150 minutes each week. They also say it doesn’t matter how you split the time up. You can do 10-minute segments 3x a day for five days a week or whatever else works for you. The important thing is to get moving.  

Other steps to heart health are learning to follow a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and not smoking. Setting up an appointment with your healthcare provider for an overall physical can provide essential information regarding your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and blood sugar levels. Something else you can do to care for your heart health is to manage and/or reduce stress. Using all of this information can guide you to make better decisions regarding your own heart health and that of your family’s. 

At the MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, we provide residents a healthy, vibrant lifestyle for carefree retirement years. Our assisted living Littleton offers 65 fashionable suites in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedroom floorplans. MorningStar’s Executive Chef creates meals with flavor profiles that stimulate the senses and boost energy, and feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, often locally sourced (sometimes from our own resident gardens). Reflections Neighborhood offers trusted Alzheimer’s care designed to enhance quality of life and respect residents’ dignity. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of the most desirable senior living Littleton, CO. families rely on. 

Communicating with a Loved One with Dementia

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can come on slowly but as the disease progresses, a spouse or other family members may find themselves struggling to communicate with the person. It is important to remember while symptoms vary and every person’s progression differs depending on the stage and type of dementia they have, a sad reality is many families have difficulty finding effective ways to communicate. 

Experts say the best piece of advice is to be “patient with ourselves as caregivers.” Like other challenges in life, it may require you to tailor your communication in a way that can help you connect with the person, while at the same time, respecting their dignity. However Carol Podgorski, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Rochester, warns, “Dementias are progressive and degenerative brain diseases that can last for over 10 years. Communication strategies vary by the stage of the disease as well as other factors, including language abilities, sensory function, relationship history with the person communicating, and even personality.”

Tips to more effectively communicate include speaking slowly and clearly; and then giving the person the time they need to reply back. Someone with dementia is much slower to process information as well as find the right words. Experts say conversation is best done in a quiet place without noises or distractions. 

Another thing to pay attention to is your body language. As you give them time to answer, look them in the eye and silently project encouragement with friendly facial expressions. Nod in agreement as they go along. If they say something that is not realistic such as wondering why a deceased parent doesn’t visit, experts say “join the journey.” Rather than explain the person is dead, show them a picture of the person and suggest you can help them write a letter to their parents. 

It is also easier to converse if you stay in the present than trying to ask them what they did this morning. In other words, don’t ask what they had for breakfast this morning but if they are hungry now. When the time comes that the disease has robbed them of speech, talk with them and not talk over them. 

If a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar of Littleton senior living wants you to know we are here to help. Along with assisted living, our senior living Littleton, CO community offers trusted holistic Alzheimer’s care within our dedicated Reflections Neighborhood. Here residents receive individualized care in a safe and supportive environment from our team of compassionate dementia care specialists. Contact us to set up a personalized tour. 

Source: aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2025/talk-to-someone-with-dementia/

Our Health Needs depend on Reliable Medical Information

The Medical News Today cites recent surveys showing Americans are vulnerable to misinformation via social and mass market media as well as from friends and family. As this can include critical medical information, they warn while there is a fount of easily accessible content, there are things we can do to protect ourselves from inaccurate advice. 

According to a 2024 survey from Healthline, more than half of American respondents said they got health information via social media, while another 32% said they turned to family, friends, and colleagues for health advice. To help empower us to make good medical decisions, Medical News Today spoke with Dawn Holford, PhD from the School of Psychological Science at the University of Bristol, U.K. who specializes in the psychology of communication and decision-making. 

Holford suggests people double check information with more than one reliable source to look for consensus across the board. She also adamantly says it is up to medical new websites like Medical New Today to be extra diligent to ensure their information is correct. In terms of the consumer, she recommends using trusted governmental public health organizations as well as global ones like the World Health Organization. In addition, look for well-vetted independent sites and reach out to trusted healthcare providers. 

Following her rule of thumb, Holford cautions to be on your guard. She explains, “If something seems to align to what you already believe — it may well be correct, but follow the same steps to verify it.” 

If you are looking for the area’s top senior living Littleton, CO offers, we invite you to take a look at MorningStar of Littleton. Our 65 stylish private suites are designed in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedroom configurations; and offer resort-style amenities, senior living and wellness programs. Within our dedicated Reflections Neighborhood, we provide trusted assisted living Littleton in an intimate surrounding that enhances quality of life for our most tender residents. Contact us to set up a tour and ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-do-you-know-if-a-health-information-source-is-reliable?

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

Safety Tips for Using a Walker

If you are at the point in life where you are not as stable as you used to be, have balance problems, arthritis or leg weakness; a mobility aid such as a walker could help keep you moving and lessen your chance of a fall. The first thing to do is work with a physical therapist or your healthcare provider to discuss the best type of walker for your personal needs and comfort. There are several fit points to consider as well as styles.

One common choice is a standard walker with four rubber-tipped legs and no wheels. Experts say it provides the most stability but has the drawback of having to pick it up to move. Other choices include walkers with wheels. A two-wheel walker has the wheels on the front two legs and can be helpful for those who have trouble picking up a standard walker. Four–wheel walkers may help those very unsteady on their feet but at the same time, can be a bit less stable. It may be safer to try using a four-wheeler with a seat.   

Another important step in getting the proper walker is the height of the arms. The Mayo Clinic suggests stepping into the walker with your shoulders relaxed and upright. Elbows should be able to comfortably bend at 15 degrees. Other tips include remembering to stand upright when using as it is easier on your back, and to move one step at a time. Step into the walker with each step rather than walking behind it. 

Use caution when using a walker on a slippery or wet surface, and even carpet requires extra care. Just as you do when you walk on your own, be sure to wear sensible low-heeled shoes that fit well. Experts say laces help customize the shoe to the foot. 

Add-ons and various options make walkers more convenient. Fold-up models allow them to be easily transported. Attachable bags and baskets ensure you can carry items you need while keeping hands-free to concentrate on safely moving the walker. Other options include trays for drinks or meals and seats. 

At the MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, we provide the area’s finest assisted living and memory care. Our assisted living suites are available in a smart selection of floorplans and configurations and designed with handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24/7 emergency call systems. Hallways and doorways safely accommodate the needs of residents. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood’s memory care is devoted to the specialized, individualized needs of our most tender residents. Contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand senior living at its best.  

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/walker/art-20546805

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.