Signs Mom or Dad May Need More Care

Sometimes it is obvious an elderly parent needs more care such as having a bad fall or mismanaging medications resulting in a trip to the emergency room. Experts say even without such an overt situation, there are signs to look for suggesting a parent or another loved one may do better in an assisted living community.  

Warning signs include changes in the person’s behavior. For example, if mom has always been tidy but her home now looks neglected or smells, and dirty dishes are piled in the sink, she may not be handling things well. Other signs include a recent weight loss or gain and changes in grooming habits. Take note if she is having mobility problems or unexplained bruises or cuts, which might indicate falls.

Experts say consider other things too, such as social isolation and the person’s inability to get around on their own if they no longer drive.  Also, check the refrigerator for signs of spoiled food or a lack of food. 

Even a few of these things may be a sign they could benefit from the services of an assisted living community like MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a true home with an atmosphere of love, kindness and compassion. Along with a broad range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and wellness programs, our private suites come in a choice of floor plans including studio and one- and two-bedroom configurations.   

Care services include 24/7 Care Managers, Certified Medication Managers, Licensed Nurses, routine health monitoring, and much more.  In addition, residents enjoy delicious meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef that feature the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, served restaurant style in our lovely dining room. For more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, please call us or visit our website.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar at Golden Ridge

For exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, seniors and their families are encouraged to learn more about Morningstar at Golden Ridge in Peoria.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our well-designed casitas and suites.  We offer a range of floor plans and configurations to meet varying needs.

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our common areas including dining room, pool, fitness center, theater, and gathering spaces. In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, availability and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.
MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Contact us for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Learn More about MorningStar of Arvada’s Clinical Services

MorningStar memory care of Arvada CO defines wellness as a comprehensive, holistic strength. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment, we see wellness as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life. We look for creative solutions 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. Our community maintains up-to-date files as well as consistent health monitoring to make sure our residents are receiving the care that is right for them. 

MorningStar is proud to set the pace within Senior Housing with our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management, and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). With the heightened productivity of this point-of-care charting and clinical intelligence, we are free to devote more time to resident-centered care and activities. This also ensures our information is organized and up to date. 

We determine your loved one’s level of need as part of our onboarding process for our memory care in Arvada CO. Each resident has a varying level of need. Care Levels are determined through a simple point system that takes into account the cost and time of providing each service such as grooming, bathing, ambulation, and medical assistance. The cumulative score determines the level of care, resulting in an individualized service plan that offers the right amount of help needed.

Respite stays are also offered at MorningStar. Respite care is a short-term stay in a MorningStar community. It is recommended for seniors recovering from hospitalization or other health issues. It can also be of benefit to a personal caregiver who needs a well-deserved vacation or a break from the responsibilities of caring for a senior.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living options in Arvada 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 Arvada, “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 Arvada, Colorado.

Trusted Assisted Living in Oregon

Have you decided for you or a loved one to move into an assisted living facility? The decision is never an easy feat. Picking the right assisted living community that meets your needs and level of care perfectly is equally as daunting. Evaluate your current needs and wants in a senior living or memory care facility. Keep these questions and advice below in mind so that you can be self-assured that you have found the right place to call home.

It is important to consider not only your current care needs but your future ones as well. No one wants to think about memory loss or the other discomforts that come with old age, but these changes are a fact of life. Preparing for what may lie ahead can guarantee that you will be taken care of properly for years to come. Therefore it is best to consider senior living facilities that offer retirement homes, assisted living, and memory care. Communities that offer these assisted  living arrangements under one roof can ensure that you stay comfortable throughout your stay. You don’t have to worry about jumping from home to home when your needs change. 

MorningStar provides these three levels of care. Not only that, but MorningStar of Beaverton considers the needs of every resident. Upon meeting, our Wellness Director will assess your current health, and review your medical history to ascertain how we can best meet your needs. At that time, we will also learn your preferences, as well as normal routines, to develop a care plan customized to you. Your plan will also be regularly re-evaluated to coincide with your changing needs as your time with us extends. Staying at one facility ensures that your files do not become lost. You can build a hearty relationship with your community, your caregivers, and your neighbors which is less possible through multiple stays at different facilities. 

While MorningStar may be new to Beaverton, our team is highly experienced in serving seniors. We understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. Every team member, regardless of role, completes three foundational one-day training as part of joining the MorningStar family as well as training in Radiance (our culture and customer service initiative) and Lavender Sky (our dementia care philosophy and approach to programming). Some states in which we operate require care managers to be certified in both CPR and First Aid. Continuing education is conducted regularly, and our Med Tech (QMAPs) are additionally trained in medication administration.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “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. Contact us today to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Beaverton, Oregon.

Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle this Fall

Now that fall is around the corner, most of us can look forward to more moderate temperatures, making it easier to enjoy the outdoors. Medical experts say spending time outside has a beneficial impact on our mental health as well as boost our immune system; and a nice sunny fall day can increase our vitamin D. In addition, engaging in many types of exercise is not only more enjoyable but safer in temperate weather.   

Another healthy habit to incorporate into our fall routine is getting a flu shot. While we all know the dangers of COVID-19, influenza can also be deadly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises “The single best way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like flu.”

Fall is also time for healthy, immune boosting vegetables and fruits. Pumpkins are a good example of a tasty, nutritional vegetable. They are high in beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, as well as vitamins C, E, potassium and fiber. The versatile pumpkin can be used in everything from chili to soups, pastas, breads, drinks and yummy desserts. Moreover, don’t forget to save the seeds as they are high in plant-based protein, fiber and magnesium. 

For many, one of their favorite things about fall is the start of football season and enjoying the games with family and friends. Dieticians recommend considering healthier alternatives to traditional snacks on game day such as fresh vegetables and dip, homemade trail mix, hummus with veggies and fresh fruit. Not only are they more heart healthy but may help take off a few inches from your waistline.  

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge, our primary goal is to provide seniors with carefree retirement years.  Our beautiful community offers residents a safe and comfortable home to age in place while taking advantage of resort-style amenities and a broad range of meaningful activities. Residents also enjoy healthy, nutritious meals inspired by our own Executive Chef and served in our full-service dining room. If you are looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care in the Peoria, AZ area, please contact us for more information.

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

Seniors with Dementia Can Enjoy the Water this Summer

Spending time in the pool can serve as physical therapy for seniors experiencing Alzheimer’s or other forms of memory loss. By strengthening the whole body with low impact and gentle movements, water aerobics is a fun way for seniors to be social and get some physical exercise. As specialists in memory care, MorningStar’s Memory Care of Arvada, Co is aware of the benefits of aquatic therapy, especially for seniors living with neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s. 

Water therapy encourages independence in seniors that live in memory care facilities. Because of the unique properties of water, bodies can perform movements more easily than on the ground. Water therapy helps seniors experience relief from stress on joints and bones. Improved joint function, motor coordination, balance, and an increased range of motion are other major benefits for the body when participating in water aerobics. 

Performing rhythmic body movements and dance steps in water is what water aerobics is all about. These exercises are performed in waist, or chest, deep water, making it ideal for people with arthritis, neck and back problems, and obesity. 

While water therapy is beneficial for some individuals experiencing memory loss, these seniors should never enter a pool unsupervised. In fact, instructors should be present in the water with dementia care individuals that have been cleared to participate in pool activities. A lifeguard should also be within reach for extra safety measures. MorningStar’s Memory Care and Senior Living in Arvada is happy to have a swimming pool within our own community. If swimming doesn’t pique your interest, you may enjoy a soak in our hot tub or a rejuvenating spa bath. 

Regardless of the barrier within your loved ones' memory loss, we continue to practice empathetic techniques with our residents in memory care. By incorporating holistic methods through properly trained personnel, our individualized care plans enhance the health and happiness of our memory care seniors.  

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care and senior living in Arvada, 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 Arvada, “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 Arvada, Colorado.

Ageism in Healthcare is a Growing Concern

How we decide to speak to seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's greatly impacts their quality of life. Infantilizing communication is sadly a too-common communication style used by family members, strangers, and even health care specialists. Elderspeak is a term that refers to the infantilizing communication used to speak to older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's disease or another kind of dementia. Elderspeak is a form of ageism and is a cause for concern in healthcare.

Elderspeak elicits a tone of incompetence towards a memory care patient. Baby talk, simplistic grammar and vocabulary, slowed speech, and elevated pitch and volume are some examples of elderspeak. While referring to a patient with dementia as a “good girl” for completing a meal may feel empathetic and encouraging, this sort of treatment actually reduces the agency of the person. This language derives from stereotypical views of older adults as less competent than younger adults and projects negative stereotypes on elders.

Ageism greatly impacts dementia care and can even reverse progress. Elderspeak can make dementia patients resistant to care. Research from the NIH documents that elderspeak is perceived as patronizing by seniors struggling with memory loss and can precipitate communication breakdown as well as exacerbate problem behaviors for cognitively impaired elders. 

The independence of seniors should be of utmost importance in senior living and memory care. MorningStar of Beaverton is proud of its responsive and compassionate care team, which is the very heart of MorningStar's care philosophy. They recognize that as a memory care facility, success is hiring the right team of people who are committed to the goal of serving with love, kindness, honesty, and humility. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton proudly brings the finest assisted living Beaverton, Oregon has to offer. They provide carefree retirement years and create a true home for residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. While MorningStar may be new to Beaverton, their team is highly experienced in serving seniors, and understanding how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care and senior living in Beaverton, Oregon. 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 Oregon.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “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 Beaverton, Oregon.

Senior Living Offers Carefree Retirement Years

Unlike years ago, when elderly people wanted to live in their own homes for as long as possible, many of today’s seniors see a real advantage to senior housing and love the idea of a more active community life. In fact, studies indicate community living provides a higher quality of life for many seniors and may contribute to a longer life and better physical and emotional health than those who remain in their own homes. 

Experts say this may be due to the fact senior living offers a less stressful, carefree environment in which seniors no longer have the responsibilities and unexpected expenses of home repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a retirement community is built around the needs of its residents as it is designed to be safely navigable for older folks as well as offers the benefit of others being around in case the need arises such as in the event of a fall. 

Another reason a senior living community such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge enhances quality of life for residents is the five-star dining experience for better nutritional health. Additionally, wellness programs, social activities and special events mean there is something to look forward to each day. Whether taking a yoga class, playing a challenging game of trivia, relaxing with friends on the patio or sharing a drink during happy hour, you will be engaged, stimulated and have a sense of purpose.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge strives to be the best independent and assisted living in the Peoria area, and we take the well-being of our residents very seriously.  Our all-inclusive community offers all the amenities, services and enrichment programs to give you the best retirement years possible. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, we have 35 secure suites devoted to individualized, compassionate memory care. Please see our website for more information.

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

Ways Communication with Your Loved One Changes After a Dementia Diagnosis

Dementia is a progressive illness that diminishes a person’s memory over time and will affect how they understand everyday facts, such as people’s names, important dates, and specific places. If your loved one is struggling with a dementia diagnosis or other memory loss illnesses, the way in which they communicate with you and with the world may feel confusing and frustrating. For a person with dementia, their ability to process information changes and response time will often be weak or delayed. While communication with a loved one struggling with memory loss or dementia is difficult, it is not impossible. MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Beaverton offers some examples of how to better communicate and maintain a relationship with your loved one struggling with memory loss. 

It is devastating to watch someone you love struggle with dementia. It may feel as though you are losing that person entirely. At MorningStar of Beaverton, consistently working and communicating with an elder struggling with memory loss has been shown to be beneficial, even if the communication method appears different. Often, the communication will be nonverbal, or incoherent. It is important to remain patient, calm, and empathetic during these moments. Maintain eye contact and pay attention to changes in body language. Body language and physical contact may become stronger and more apparent for a person with dementia. Holding your loved one’s hand or giving a gentle pat is encouraging and maintains the bond between you.

Your loved one’s input and independence are important as a senior dealing with dementia. However, you may not be able to ask for it as much as you were once used to. When routing the world of dementia, try not to ask your loved one too many questions. Questions may confuse someone struggling with memory loss and they can become frustrated. Instead, try to focus on the present when you are with them. Comment on the surroundings around them that they can notice immediately. Things such as taste, feel, smell, and sound are great things to comment on when trying to understand your loved one’s input or comfortability. Remaining in the present will aid in easy communication between you and your loved one in assisted living or memory care. 

To learn more about MorningStar Assisted Living Facility and Memory Care of Beaverton and the other specialized care regarding Dementia care in Beaverton, OR please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other memory care facilities in Oregon.   

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon has to offer.

How to Better Understand Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Many people have a difficult time deciphering the differences between Alzheimer’s and Dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association defines dementia as an umbrella term for a severe decline in mental ability that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s, on the other hand, is a specific disease and the most common cause of Dementia. Many different types of Dementia exist, and it is important to note that Dementia is not a normal part of aging. If you are concerned that a family member or loved one may be struggling with Dementia or Alzheimer’s, MorningStar of Arvada can help you better understand memory care in Arvada, Colorado. 

As stated by The Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that is caused by complex brain changes following cell damage. The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first. Simply being forgetful is not enough for a doctor to make the diagnosis of dementia, instead, they will run a series of tests to determine if there is other evidence of cognition problems.

In some cases of Alzheimer’s, your loved one may exhibit poor judgment and trouble performing common household chores, paying bills, or preparing food.  They may have problems with organizing thoughts, and repeatedly ask the same questions or relate the same stories.  A person with dementia can get lost or confused even in a familiar environment. As Alzheimer’s advances, symptoms get more severe and include disorientation, confusion, and behavior changes. Eventually, speaking, swallowing, and a body’s physical movement become difficult or lost altogether.  

At MorningStar of Arvada, we feel it is our privilege as well as our calling to serve those with Alzheimer’s and other Dementia-related diseases. Using holistic methods under our mantra of a “Lavender Sky” we work to “enter, embrace, and explore” the world of Dementia. Regardless of the extent of the memory loss, we know the essence of the person remains, and our job is to connect with and nurture that essence as we put our energies toward finding ways to celebrate life.

If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia, please contact MorningStar of Arvada to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care or senior living in Arvada, Co. Unlike many memory care communities, our home was designed to promote independence and to give residents the freedom to safely explore their spacious surroundings. Our staff is trained to give loving, experienced care from the onset of the disease to its advanced stages.

MorningStar of Arvada proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Arvada, Colorado has to offer.

Did You Sleep Well Last Night?

As more and more research shows, getting enough sleep each night is important for everything from better mental health to better physical health. Some studies have even reported findings of an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease in people who routinely have sleep problems.

If you are someone who has trouble getting to sleep or sleeping through the night, the US News & World Report published several tips from sleep experts to help reset your sleep clock and improve your sleep habits. They recommend beginning with reestablishing waking and bedtime rituals by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time. It may even be a good idea to eat meals at the same time. Your bedroom should be dark and use a light-blocking sleep mask if needed. Also, keep your bedroom a work free zone. Other recommendations include avoiding caffeine after noon, spending time outdoors during daylight hours, and exercising each day. 

Dr. Kannan Ramar, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a pulmonologist, critical care specialist and sleep medicine specialist at Mayo Clinic, and professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, says, “Pervasive worry is a major factor in sleep disruption.” He advises his patients to turn off the TV and your tablet one or two hours before bedtime. Stop drinking alcohol at least one or two hours before sleep and consider moderating your consumption. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is situated on a vibrant 8.8-acre campus with exceptional architecture and award-winning design.  Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors.  Our community offers 38 Casitas with attached garages for independent living.  In addition, we have 65 suites for assisted living and 35 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/sleep-reset-getting-your-sleep-back-to-normal 

Learn More About MorningStar at Golden Ridge

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our goal is to provide the best senior living in Peoria, AZ. We attribute our company’s success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership. To help us accomplish these lofty goals, we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts and a true love for seniors. 

Our founding principles are based on “casting a new light” on senior living and treating each resident with the utmost respect and dignity. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and contribute is ageless; and we act upon this truth daily as we care for, inspire and love the residents under our roof. At MorningStar, we want seniors to recognize they are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream.

We take great pride in a reputation for excellence and authenticity in both how we serve and why we serve throughout our MorningStar communities across 11 states. Specializing in compassionate care delivered by our distinguished team and guided by our proprietary program “Radiance,” we know the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing with others our talents, time and energy. 

As people are living longer than any other time in history (by 2055 90 million Americans will be 55+ and the number of people 75 to 85 is set to triple), senior living is quickly becoming a popular option for older adults. Residents appreciate predictable budgeting, resort-style amenities and services, companionship and a home where they can safely age in place.

Seniors’ wellbeing, comfort and safety are something MorningStar at Golden Ridge takes very seriously.  Our beautiful community has 38 graciously appointed Casitas for independent living, featuring attached garages and premium upgrades. For those who require help with personal daily activities, we offer 65 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 35 secure suites for residents with memory impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please contact us today to learn more. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. 

It May Be Time for a Loved One to Move to an Assisted Living Community

If you have become responsible for more and more of the caregiving duties for an elderly parent or another loved one, it may be time to consider a change.  Today’s senior living options include assisted living that provides daily help with personal care, and actually helps residents regain their sense of independence.  Also, once your loved one is getting the proper care they need, it allows you to get back to just enjoying the time you spend together.  Moreover, communities offering assisted living like MorningStar at Golden Ridge provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  

Our first priority is to ensure your loved one gets the care they need.  This starts with a thorough evaluation of their medical and personal history, followed by a care plan approved by you and your parents.  MorningStar’s services also help our families by providing transportation to doctor appointments as well as offer scheduled physician visits and supportive services from third-party providers including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  

Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs.  While this is not a substitute for the time your loved one spends with family, you may find your parents are not always available to take your call as they are busy having fun with other residents and staff.  

Our services also include providing housekeeping to help ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we see to it your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need.  Moreover, meals are served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.  We also help with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications.  We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers active seniors an independent living option with 38 Casitas, quadruplexes with attached garages and premium upgrades.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides individualized care for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar Senior Living 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. Visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

How is Mild Cognitive Impairment Diagnosed?

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people aged 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they are often not aware of their memory loss. So, how is MCI diagnosed?

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s, normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.” 

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies. 

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. Experts say quickly progressing memory problems are most likely another issue as true dementia progresses slowly. 

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain the signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers individualized, loving care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of MorningStar’s memory care is geared toward residents’ needs from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Beaverton’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living facilities and memory care. 

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/evaluating-mci-mild-cognitive-impairment

Does a Parent Need More Care than You Can Provide?

Being a caregiver for an elderly parent or another loved one can be stressful and over time your duties can increase to a point where it is more than you can handle. For your wellbeing and that of your parent’s, it is probably time to make a change. Today’s senior living communities offer a range of options including assisted living, designed to provide help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). This level of care allows the senior to regain their sense of independence; and for you, your time with mom or dad goes back to just enjoying being together.   

Additionally senior living communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge offer residents much more than just comprehensive physical care. Residents enjoy a whole range of amenities, concierge services, wellness programs and activities and opportunities to make new friends.

Once the family decides to entrust MorningStar at Golden Ridge with the care of their loved one, we do a thorough evaluation of the person's medical history, background and personal preferences. Then we create a care plan approved by you and your parents, which is also routinely updated to address any changes in care. Mom or dad will receive access to a full-time licensed nurse and a caring, responsive 24-hour staff. We also offer medication management services.

Other services include scheduled transportation to doctor appointments as well as offer scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry care. Weekly housekeeping and daily trash removal keeps mom or dad’s suite spotless, and linen and laundry services keep life simple. A 5-star meal service ensures your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need. 
MorningStar at Golden Ridge has 65 suites for assisted living in a range of floor plans along with 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For active seniors, we have 38 Casitas with attached garages that are set within their own private neighborhood. Please contact us today to learn more.

Does a Yawn Mean You are Tired?

Experts say you may be surprised to learn yawning is not a sign that we are tired. Moreover we yawn anywhere from five to 20 times a day and a yawn typically lasts around 5 seconds. 

Scientists explain a yawn is probably not a sign we need more oxygen or need to get rid of extra carbon dioxide. In fact they say a “yawn/sleep link may be a form of nonverbal communication.” They add when a family of baboons start yawning, it appears to be a signal it is time to sleep.  

Other theories regarding why we yawn include the idea that it exercises and stretches our lungs and nearby tissues, helping to prevent the tiny airways in the lungs from collapsing. This may be why yawns occur when our breathing is shallow like when we are tired or bored. The newly stretched muscles help us feel more awake and alert as the yawn increases our heart rate. 

Another odd thing about yawning is we can feel a need to do it just by thinking about it, and scientists say it is one of the most contagious, uncontrollable things we do. Just watching a video of people yawning can cause us to yawn. Researchers say it may be a good thing if we yawn when someone else does as a study with Boston University students showed the less empathic a person was the less likely they were to mimic a yawn.  

A study on the yawning habits of 120 people published in 2014 in the journal, Physiology & Behavior, found people yawned less in the winter. Researchers theorized hotter temperatures may cause the brain to get too warm and a yawn brings in fresh air to cool it down. It is important to note yawning excessively as well as other symptoms like brain fog and a hard time sleeping could be a sign of other problems, which should be reported to your doctor.  

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an array of luxury amenities and services. Our senior living options include assisted living and independent living, and memory care. We are dedicated to creating a true home for carefree retirement years, and invite you to visit our website or contact us to learn more.

Learn More About Assisted Living at MorningStar of Beaverton

As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, MorningStar of Beaverton is designed to meet the needs of our assisted living residents with compassion and professionalism. Each aspect of our home is intended to allow residents to comfortably and safely age in place with an array of luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. 

Our gracious living extends to our dining service that offers an upscale experience inspired by the belief that dining is the centerpiece of personal wellness. It is through a proper diet of healthy choices that food becomes a healing medicine unlike any other. When it is enjoyed as a community, it helps to bond us as a family. MorningStar of Beaverton’s trained Executive Chef has been instructed in culinary skills and menu creation, along with the soft skills of being a servant-leader. As we recognize today’s seniors have more sophisticated culinary tastes, we balance a blend of world foods and flavors with nostalgic comfort foods. 

One of our special interests is a focus on developing delicious meals around foods known to support brain health. Containing a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, they include “Super Foods” like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens. So, our meals not only delight the eye and palate, but contain the ingredients to help recharge our bodies. 

MorningStar of Beaverton provides many support services and the physical environment to enable seniors to live as comfortably and as safely as possible. All assisted living suites are equipped with full handicap-accessible bathrooms and have emergency call systems. Along with our delicious daily meals tailored to the changing health needs of older adults, we offer 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews, and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Music and Art May Improve Quality of Life for Those with Dementia

Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to improve the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Experts explain they help encourage engagement and self-expression even in more advanced stages.  

Professionals who work with Alzheimer’s patients say music seems to decrease agitation and improves behavioral problems common in the middle stages of the disease. Patients in later stages may even be able to sing a song they knew from childhood or tap a foot to the beat even after other forms of communication are difficult. Dancing or gently moving to a rhythm helps coordinate motor movements as well as allows the person to express emotions. Research shows “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” 

If you wish to use music to calm and soothe, choose peaceful, tranquil pieces. If you want to boost spirits and bring back happy memories, use livelier pieces. Experts say to turn off other distractions like a TV and close windows if there is outside noise. Music may be more enjoyable to the person if it is something they are familiar with from their earlier life. 

Art can also be an outlet for self-expression and give a person with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose and accomplishment in creating their own work. Experts recommended avoiding any project that seems childlike and demeaning. Use safe, non-toxic materials, and if they need, take their hand and guide it on the paper to get them started. Moreover, remember there is no need for the person to finish.  

MorningStar of Beaverton is a trusted assisted living and memory care community southwest of Portland, OR. Our holistic memory care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation. A resident’s day is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents. Please visit our website to learn more about senior living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care. 

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living assisted living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music

Adult Children Often Feel Guilty When a Parent Moves to Assisted Living

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need. 

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living facility is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they needed to move to a place where they would receive the proper care. 

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long-run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.  

For exceptional assisted living, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Beaverton, a true destination for successful aging.  We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 66 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, 38 memory care suites are devoted to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.  

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

What are Dementia Researchers Working On?

In an article from Medical News Today, experts explain the various areas dementia research is focused on including: “understanding how the condition works, why it develops, and how it might be treated. Importantly, there is also a focus on how we can improve the lives of people with dementia.” 

Dr. Kellyn Lee, a chartered psychologist and research fellow in aging and dementia at the University of Southampton, in the U.K., is one researcher focused on trying to improve the lives of those suffering from dementia. Her program, called the “Material Citizenship Framework Project,” is being used to demonstrate to staff working with dementia patients just how important patients’ possessions and identities are to their wellbeing. Dr. Lee says in one case an Alzheimer’s patient was distressed at not recognizing herself. It turns out before her illness; she dyed her hair and didn’t recognize the woman in the mirror with gray hair. Personal possessions can help people to connect with and help maintain their identity. Dr. Lee explains, “Losing access to frequently used possessions can cause disempowerment and confusion. To observers, this confusion can sometimes seem like dementia progression.”

Another group of researchers are working to improve the lives of people in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s with the development of HUG comforters. These soft blankets have weighted limbs, a heartbeat and the ability to play the person’s favorite music. Studies show a HUG can help reduce anxiety and agitation, and embrace the person in a soft hug. 

In the on-going race for effective treatments for Alzheimer’s, some researchers are looking at repurposing certain drugs. One example is a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. Metformin has shown to improve symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients in a small clinical trial but more studies need to be done. Others are studying the connection between cardiac disease and Alzheimer’s and how decreased blood flow adversely impacts our brains.   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-research-whats-exciting-the-experts#2