Finding a Community for a Loved One With Alzheimer's Disease

Are you considering a community setting for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about senior living communities offering memory care is whether they are up to the task of caring for your loved one.  Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road?  A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need.     

Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one.  Do they have a tendency to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors?  Do they require help with eating and drinking?  Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker?  Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes.   

Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one, now ask questions including how experienced is the staff; and do they have any special training.  If so, is it on-going?  Will your loved one have an individualized care plan?  Also, what is the staff-ratio during the day and at night?  

Inquire about safety protocols starting with secured doors, courtyards, and grounds as well as an emergency call system.  Are hallways color-coded making it easier for residents to navigate about more independently?   Is there a nurse on duty, and how extensive are medical services?   Also, ask about the type of memory care activities and treatments available.  After you have learned what you can, experts say trust your instincts.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides quality senior living in Peoria, Arizona, including compassionate care for those in the early onset of dementia through to the most advanced stages.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please contact us for more information about our Reflections Neighborhood and to set up a tour.

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. Contact us or visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/memory-care-facility-checklist

Snoring? Tips to Quiet the Problem

Medical experts say if you snore, it is important to figure out if the problem is caused by sleep apnea, a medical condition putting you at risk for a number of serious health problems, or something you can remedy with a few lifestyle changes. Sleep apnea causes symptoms such as walking up and gasping for breath during the night, or feeling sleepy during the day. If you suspect sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about it as they can schedule a sleep study to determine if you do have it. 

Other reasons for snoring are outside influences and habits, which with a little effort can be altered or worked on. One important step to quiet snoring as well as improve your health, is if you smoke, stop. Smoking can increase swelling and irritation in the upper airways and cause snoring; or it may be a reaction to nightly nicotine withdrawal. Doctors say even secondhand smoke from another household member can increase your risk of snoring.   

Alcohol is another risk factor for snoring. Experts advise avoiding alcohol altogether, or if you do drink, do it at least three hours before bedtime. Alcohol as well as certain tranquilizers or sedatives all relax the muscles in the throat, which is a cause of snoring. Studies additionally find overweight or obese people have a higher risk of snoring as extra fat tissue in the neck and throat narrows the airways. 

Likewise the position you sleep in can increase your chance of snoring. If you sleep on your back, it causes the tongue to fall back and press against the top of your airway so try sleeping on your side. Elevating your head with pillows may also help. Several companies sell snoring aids so check to see if one would work for you. A room humidifier may relieve swollen air passages, and an air purifier can help remove some airborne irritants. 

MorningStar of Beaverton’s unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Contact us to learn more about the area’s finest senior living that includes independent living, assisted living and memory care. Also be sure to ask how to save up to $8000 (a limited time deal).

Cognitive Reserve and Its Importance to Brain Health

While the concept of cognitive reserve was identified three decades ago, researchers were not sure how to quantify or separate it from the term brain reserve, which is defined as a structural quality measured by brain volume and its number of neurons and synapses. The NIH says to refer to it as actual differences in the brain itself that may increase tolerance of pathology, and cognitive reserve.

The term cognitive reserve was first used by a group of neuropsychologists at Columbia University lead by Yaakov Stern to explain why people of higher education or in more challenging occupations were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. After examining the brains post mortem of elderly residents from a care facility, they found some of those with a high degree of plaques associated with Alzheimer’s had “ranked in the 20 percent of residents as good or better than those without any signs of plaques.” They hypothesized the extra years of intellectual effort gave people a reserve to help delay the onset of clinical manifestations.  

New evidence debunks the long-held view that brain reserve is a fixed capacity throughout one’s life and finds we may be able to make new neurons through adulthood. However scientists say this ability needs to be supported by cognitive resilience or “brain maintenance” consisting of lifestyle or environmental factors to ensure the brain’s well-maintained. Therefore optimal brain health is a combination of cognitive reserve, brain reserve and brain maintenance. 

While cognitive reserve is associated with higher IQs, higher levels of social engagement in mid or later life is also an important component of cognitive performance. In fact studies show older adults with strong social ties have a 30 to 50 percent lower dementia risk. Exercise also elevates blood flow to the brain and maintains health. Risk factors impacting our reserve are obesity, lack of sleep and poor diet. Scientists explain building and protecting cognitive reserves is about exercising our brains throughout our lives with activities that include physical, mental and social stimulation. 

Researchers explain the physical manifestation of Alzheimer’s in the brain is linked to loss of synapses; and a recent discovery of a neuritin (NRN1), may provide an answer to therapeutic intervention. Jeremy Herskowitz, a researcher from the University of Alabama, says one day NRN1 could be a supplement to support brain function and help forestall the pathological effects of Alzheimer’s disease.   

MorningStar of Arvada is a senior living community offering independent living and assisted living as well as all-inclusive memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. Our community offers well-designed suites, luxury amenities and a complement of meaningful wellness programs and activities. Please call to schedule a tour of the finest senior living in Arvada.

The Aging Brain

It is no secret that aging brings with it changes many of us experience including not being as sharp as we were when younger. Many seniors say they find it more difficult to multitask, have trouble recalling names and finding the right word. Some complain about a decline in their ability to concentrate, absorb, process, and remember new information. 

On the positive side, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says studies have found various strengths of seniors such as having a wider vocabulary and a greater depth of understanding of the meaning of words than younger adults. Moreover, most are capable of learning new skills (it may take longer), and forming new memories. Another advantage older adults have over their younger counterparts is a wealth of life experience and accumulated knowledge. 

However, researchers are trying to figure out why some seniors stay cognitively healthy longer than others, and if our lifestyle habits protect our brains as we age. For now evidence shows certain parts of our brains do shrink as we age, especially those areas associated with learning; and parts of our brain may not communicate with one another as well as when we were younger. In addition, blood flow may decrease, while inflammation increases, and causes problems. 

We do know some people live well into their 80s, 90s and beyond with sharp cognitive skills, and defy the widely held view of seniors’ declining abilities. NIA-supported researchers call these lucky few “super agers,” and define them as “people aged 80 years and older who have performance on memory tests comparable to people two to three decades younger.” While we are not sure why super agers retain such strong cognitive skills, scientists say it could be they started out with a larger, more robust brain. 

If you are looking for outstanding senior living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge may be your answer. We offer seniors a safe place to socialize and make new friends as well as activities and wellness programs to enjoy life to the fullest. We are in Peoria, northwest of Phoenix, and convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. To experience MorningStar up close, contact us to schedule a visit.  

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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Walking Is One of the Simplest Ways to Improve Balance

Many seniors know a fall could threaten their independence and way of life. Common injuries include to the head, hip fractures, and in the most extreme cases death. Experts explain balance declines as we age as well as can be affected by medications and medical conditions, lack of flexibility and uncorrected vision problems. This is why medical experts encourage seniors to work on maintaining and improving balance. 

The Harvard Medical School says one of the simplest ways to improve balance is with exercises like walking, strength training and workouts targeted to improve stability. However, before beginning any new exercise regime, consult your healthcare provider.  

When beginning a walking plan, whether you are active or sedentary, experts say to remember minutes walked are more important than number of miles. If you are unused to exercise, start slowly. Also, wear good walking shoes, and if you normally use a cane or walker, use it. Experts say it is safer to walk with a buddy and to bring along a cell phone. Walk in a place with an even surface, and especially in the beginning, stay close to home.  Once you start feeling more confident, add more minutes to your routine. 

For seniors who are already walking, try adding a few more minutes to your program or a more challenging route. Experts say the overall goal should be to do at least 150 minutes a week. To add strength training exercises and workouts to improve balance, ask your doctor for advice on how to get started. 

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. Along with a swimming pool, fitness centers and exercise classes, we offer strolling paths on our beautiful grounds.  If you are looking at senior living in Peoria, AZ, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

MorningStar offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in our staff to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about our independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

AI VS Doctor-led Medical Advice

The Harvard Medical School recently published an article discussing how patients rated AI’s information next to real doctors’ advice in terms of empathy. Following up on findings from the ChatGPT survey showing AI to be way more empathetic to patients, the author, Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing, says there is most likely more to consider. Currently AI does tasks such as “drafting doctor’s notes, suggesting diagnoses; helping to read x-rays and MRI scans; and monitoring real-time health data including heart rate or oxygen level.” 

Shmerling points out while AI’s surveyed responses were longer than the doctors, there is more to it than the “amount” related to patients’ including how accurate and up-to-date the information actually is. Another thing to consider is the answers the AI provided were not tested for fabrication. Therefore, experts advise it is probably premature to rely on AI answers to patients’ questions without solid proof of their accuracy and actual supervision by healthcare providers. 

A recent University of Arizona Health Sciences’ AI study reports more than half of its participants didn’t fully trust AI-powered medical advice, but many more put faith in AI if it’s monitored and guided by human touch. The National Institutes of Health-funded study gave participants mock medical conditions and asked if they would prefer to have an AI system or a physical doctor handle their diagnosis and treatment, and under what circumstances. The study’s lead author, Marvin J. Slepian, MD, JD, Regents Professor of Medicine at the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the BIO5 Institute, explains the study has importance for both future and current medical decisions. However he says, “The onus will be on physicians and others in health care to ensure that information that resides in AI systems is accurate, and to continue to maintain and enhance the accuracy of AI systems as they will play an increasing role in the future of healthcare.” 

MorningStar of Beaverton is one of the top senior living communities in the greater Portland area. With a wide choice of contemporary suites for independent living and assisted living, area seniors can get back to living life to the fullest without the worry of the upkeep of a home. Our memory care is guided by Lavender Sky, MorningStar’s proprietary program that guides our philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents. Contact us to set up a tour to the area’s finest senior living.

Source:

health.harvard.edu/blog/can-ai-answer-medical-questions-better-than-your-doctor-202403273028

healthsciences.arizona.edu/news/releases/would-you-trust-ai-doctor-new-research-shows-patients-are-split

How Poor Sleep Habits Affect Your Health

The American Heart Association offers a checklist of eight key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health. Life’s Essential 8 is designed to highlight things we can do to lower our risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems. 

In 2022, the Association added sleep duration to the list as a component of heart health. They say the amount and quality of sleep can influence a person’s eating habits, mood, memory, internal organs and more. 

One advantage to getting enough sleep is being more productive. After spending years working long hours to the detriment of a good night’s sleep, Ariana Huffington now says, “The irony is that a lot of people forgo sleep in the name of productivity. But in fact our productivity is reduced substantially when we’re sleep deprived.” 

Professor of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Charles Czeisler, explains being sleep deprived can impair your abilities and is like being drunk. Poor sleep habits can cause you to eat more to feel more energetic, and may increase your risk for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. 

It is recommended adults get a solid 7 to 9 hours of sleep each day and a sleep routine will help you achieve this goal. Start by going to bed each night around the same time so you can wake up refreshed at the same time each morning. If possible, open your curtains to let in the morning sunshine or turn on the bedroom lights. Research still shows breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should consist of healthy foods. 

Another thing to get your day off right is to take a few minutes each morning doing something like practicing mindfulness or yoga. The other Life’s Essential 8 include maintaining a healthy diet, fitness, quitting nicotine, losing weight, and watching your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk for diabetes. 

If you are looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  Our home offers beautiful surroundings and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need.  Please see our website for more information about luxury senior living in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Enjoy Healthy, Delicious Meals at MorningStar at Golden Ridge

Committed to providing the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ, MorningStar at Golden Ridge proudly takes dining to a new level with beautifully prepared meals served restaurant-style.  We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why we put so much emphasis on ensuring our food service is A+.

Furthermore, we believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed within a community setting.  When we break bread together, it is much more than just physical nutrients as it helps to bond us as a family and as friends.

To ensure our food service is both delicious and nutritious, we have our own professional chef who oversees all meal preparation.  Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible.  Meals are also modified to include an array of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat choices so that residents can self-manage any dietary restrictions.  

Recognizing that nutrient-rich foods can help stimulate the appetite as well as support brain health, MorningStar meals are also prepared using ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.   These “super foods” include leafy greens, nuts, dark chocolate, acai berries, and Omega 3 fats.  Most importantly, mealtime at MorningStar is a time for residents to relax and enjoy the company of fellow residents or family and friends.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities.  Amenities include a bistro bar, fitness centers, theater/chapel, salon, and swimming pool with hot tub.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our community, inquire about availability and to set up a tour.

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 for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Recommendations for Elderly Drivers

Older drivers can still be good, safe drivers, but there are some things to consider both for your safety and the safety of others.  The Mayo Clinic recommends that seniors stay as active as possible in their day-to-day life which helps to maintain overall strength, flexibility, and range of motion.  Drivers need to be able to turn and look over their shoulder and move their head with ease.  They must be able to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and legs need to be strong enough to apply pressure to the gas pedal or brake.  

A senior’s peripheral vision can decrease with age or from certain medications and other eye problems may cause drivers to have trouble seeing in the dark or experience blurred vision.  Hearing problems can interfere with detecting sounds of sirens from emergency vehicles or approaching cars.  Be vigilant about scheduling vision and hearing tests regularly as part of your wellness care and follow your doctor’s advice as to how often they should be done.  

Remember that certain medications can cause drowsiness; review the side effects of your prescription drugs and do not drive if you are feeling sleepy.  It may be a good idea to limit trips in the car to daylight hours and when the weather is good.  Keep in mind that a person’s reaction time slows with age as do their motor skills.  You may need to re-evaluate your driving every so few months, especially if you find yourself having incidents of accidents that almost happened.  

The MedicineNet website has some safe driving tips for seniors:

Planning before you leave:

• Plan to drive on streets you know.

• Limit your trips to places that are easy to get to and close to home.

• Take routes that let you avoid risky spots like ramps and left turns.

• Add extra time for travel if driving conditions are bad.

• Don’t drive when you are stressed or tired.

While you are driving:

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Stay off the cell phone.

• Avoid distractions such as listening to the radio or having conversations.

• Leave at least two car lengths, between your car and the one in front of you. If you are driving at higher speeds or if the weather is bad, leave even more space.

• Make sure there is enough space behind you. 

• Use your rear window defroster to always keep the back window clear.

• Always keep your headlights on.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we are happy to offer residents scheduled transportation along with many other amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our transportation services ensure residents get to doctor appointments and other errands safely.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living in Peoria, AZ and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Dining at MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge

As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, MorningStar at Golden Ridge was designed from the ground up to meet the needs of our residents. Each aspect of our home is intended to allow residents to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest 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’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. 

Along with our delicious meals tailored to the changing health needs of older adults, we offer beautiful gathering areas for residents to enjoy spending time with friends and family.  Other amenities include a bistro bar, fitness centers, saline swimming pool with hot tub, theater/chapel, and scheduled transportation. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s independent living, assisted living or memory care in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us to discover why MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a great place to call home.

3 Popular Senior Living Options Defined

Senior living options have greatly improved, creating modern, luxury-style senior retirement community options. With that, our expanding knowledge on memory loss has given senior care providers the skills to create improved memory care and assisted living that advocates for senior wellness by adding to their overall health and enjoyment, not diminishing it. If you are looking to better understand the senior living choices you have, keep reading to better understand the difference between independent senior living, assisted living, and memory care. 

What is Independent Senior Living?

When you think of a retirement community, that idea is very much in line with the definition of independent senior living. This type of senior care often incorporates a walkable and easily accessible community with senior-friendly amenities, dining options, and ample activities. These modern senior living communities with apartment living options are great for single seniors and those with a partner or best friend. Independent senior living is designed for seniors who want to retire and be surrounded by like-minded individuals in the same age range. These seniors need little to no help with daily living activities and can freely come and go from the community via public transport or their cars. 

Assisted Living Explained

Assisted living communities often offer very similar amenities and activities as independent senior living. Seniors in assisted living can still experience their community, have roommates, pets, and explore new hobbies and old passions while obtaining extra help and management. Depending on the need, seniors in assisted living may receive help in everyday daily activities like getting out of bed, cleaning themselves, completing some tasks, and other issues surrounding mobility. Usually, seniors in assisted living have medical conditions that inhibit them from living independently. 

Memory Care Senior Communities

Memory care is specifically designed for seniors who struggle with Alzheimer’s or another memory loss diagnosis. Memory care offers more support for seniors with memory impairment, including specialized staff, holistic healthcare methods, dementia-friendly activities, and increased safety and security. 

Find Holistic Memory Care and Senior Living Near You

Contact us today If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security of residing in an independent living community. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Beaverton, OR, take care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Why Choose MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge?

You may have found that there are many senior living communities in and around Peoria, AZ and may be wondering what sets MorningStar at Golden Ridge apart from all the others.  To start with, we offer seniors a wide range of senior living options that start with our comfortable independent living Casitas with attached garages in their own private neighborhood with a clubhouse and swimming pool.  

Our assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities.  Care services include compassionate caregivers available 24/7, access to a licensed nurse and medication management. Residents have a choice of spacious suites in a variety of floor plans.

MorningStar is also proud to have earned a reputation as dementia care specialists in our 30+ communities offering memory care.  The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a holistic approach to caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

However, the thing that really sets us apart from other area senior communities is our unique mission statement.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded by Ken Jaeger, whose intention has always been to provide senior housing that feels like a loving home (just like his grandmother’s) and offers a sense of “family.”  Our three-pillared mission statement is to honor God in our business practices and relationships; value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and invest generously in our teams’ ability to serve well. 

MorningStar’s extraordinary team is another reason we stand out from the rest.  Our team selection starts with heart, and we specifically seek out individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure residents receive first-class care and services.  Furthermore, we train our entire team in our culture we call Radiance, which lovingly guides the way we deliver service.  

Please visit our website for more information about independent living, assisted living and memory care at MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  While you are there, use our Community Assistant (lower right-hand corner) to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful home.  

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Contact us or visit our website for more information.

Could You Benefit From a Mobility Aid?

If you have arthritis, heart or lung issues, pain and weakness in the feet and legs, impairment due to a stroke, visual impairment, or other balance problems, a mobility aid can help you feel more independent, reduce pain, and increase confidence.  With options available ranging from canes to walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters, you may be wondering which one is best for your needs. 

Experts explain that your choice of aids will depend on your disability and/or medical condition.  Canes are the most common choice and are good for someone with balance problems.  In fact, the journal Medical News Today, says that one in 10 adults over the age of 65 uses a cane.   However, even here there are decisions to be made.  While white canes are reserved for the visually impaired or blind, you may find a four-footed cane with its wider base offers more stability.  If you need to shift weight from the wrist to the arm, try a forearm cane.   

Walkers, also called Zimmer frames, provide stability and are used by an estimated 4.6 percent of people in the country over the age of 65.  Along with the basic walker, styles include rollators that have four wheels, handlebars and a seat.  Knee walkers are like a rollator but have a padded cushion to rest a knee on while the stronger leg moves it forward.  Walker-cane hybrids are another option that offers better support than a standard cane.    

For more severe disabilities or to move longer distances, a wide range of wheelchairs and scooters are available. If mobility problems are long-term, modifications to your home may also be necessary.  Regardless of what mobility aid you decide on, doctors recommend making an appointment with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to learn how to use the new device properly.  

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer active seniors two-bedroom Casitas with attached garages for independent living.  For those needing help with the activities of daily living we have suites for assisted living in spacious studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all day in our full-service dining room, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship.  We are committed to providing the best senior living in Peoria, AZ and invite you to set up a tour to see our beautiful home.   

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Thoughtful Gifts for an Elderly Parent or Grandparent

Trying to find thoughtful gifts for an elderly parent or grandparent can be a challenge.  If they live in a senior living community that provides for many of their needs or an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up a lot of room or already has it. 

This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy.

If they haven’t gotten a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice operated. They can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use.  

Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain or a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids. 

For outstanding independent or assisted living, Peoria, AZ area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Casitas and suites are well designed to maximize space and are available in a variety of floor plans.  Residents enjoy our five-star dining, salon, fitness centers, theater/chapel, bistro bar, swimming pool and scheduled transportation as well as signature wellness programs and activities. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

A Closer Look at Innovative Memory Care Solutions in Beaverton Senior Living

Many families feel devastated by a memory loss diagnosis. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, which makes this diagnosis even more challenging. Luckily, there are memory care communities that make it their mission to bring innovative memory care solutions to families in Beaverton, Oregon. 

MorningStar Senior Living Oregon addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals with memory issues and sets the stage for an exploration of progressive and transformative approaches to care in these ways:

Innovative Design and Smart Technologies

MorningStar Memory Care Beaverton utilizes the latest technology and research in dementia care to create a comforting and safe environment for residents. With a homelike atmosphere, wayfinding strategies, and the incorporation of SafelyYou technologies, seniors at MorningStar are safer and more supported than ever before. 

Person-Centered Memory Care

Senior living is no longer “one-size-fits-all.” This means seniors receive the proper care they need in memory care communities at MorningStar Beaverton. Personalized care plans are specialized to each senior’s physical, emotional, and social needs. Developed with family, medical professionals, and the care team at MorningStar, seniors receive structured and person-centered memory care.

Engaging Therapeutic and Holistic Programs

MorningStar Senior Living Beaverton provides memory support for seniors through a variety of engaging therapeutic and holistic programs offered in Beaverton’s memory care communities. 

Art, pet, and music therapy are proudly loved and utilized at MorningStar. Remiscnece activities like movie nights, nature walks, board games,  and craft-making aim to stimulate cognitive function, evoke positive memories, and foster emotional well-being for seniors in memory care communities. 

Find Holistic Memory Care in Oregon You Can Trust

Contact us today If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security of residing in an independent living community. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Beaverton, OR, take care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Discover the Many Benefits of Senior Living

Senior living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of support.  For older adults who are still homeowners, senior living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to a senior living community provides an extra layer of security as well as easy interactions with people in a similar time of life.  Moreover, communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge offer the kind of independent and assisted living seniors depend on with a broad range of services including delicious, nutritional daily meals.  

Senior living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones.  In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute.  In fact, part of our mission statement is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.    

Remember even if you are the type of person who values their privacy, senior living gives you peace of mind knowing that people are around when you need them.   Moreover, if you start out in one of our Casitas for independent living, and later, you require help with activities of daily living (ADLs) as offered in assisted living, you will have priority to available suites.  The same goes for our memory care area.  This is an example of the benefits of living in a community with more than one neighborhood under its roof.  Please visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living in Peoria, AZ.

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

It’s Important to Address Changing Needs as Alzheimer’s Disease Progresses

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, a person’s needs change and it is important to recognize and address those changes with appropriate care. Along with meeting basic needs, experts say care providers should treat the whole person by creating an environment that allows them to feel independent and safe. The Alzheimer’s Association says determining the best care options can be tough and offers some advice on how to ensure the person has the services, programs, and caregivers in place for the best possible quality of life. 

The first step to any decision regarding care is to honestly evaluate your loved one’s needs. Also, to whatever degree possible, it is recommended you include them in any decisions. Another thing to remember is during the early stages of the disease the person may be able to live independently but in the middle stages, 24-hour supervision is needed. Additionally, around-the-clock care is much more demanding in the later and end stages.    

Primary points to consider include safety, especially in terms of unsupervised cooking, or if the person has a tenacity to wander or needs help with medications. Does the person have medical conditions that need monitoring such as diabetes or a mobility issue? Other problems that may demand more professional care include a person becoming aggressive or needing help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). Finally, consider if the person would benefit from more social interaction and activities. 

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers care to those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases.  The Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages their independence while keeping them safe.  Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior living in Peoria, AZ. 

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/care-options/choosing-care-providers

The Importance of Person-Centered Care in Memory Senior Living Communities

With dementia or Alzheimer’s, there is no one sided approach to care. Because memory loss is so unpredictable and varied, every person will have a different response to their new reality and struggle with different symptoms at different times. The best memory care communities understand that senior care should be tailored to each individual, prioritizing their set of unique challenges and goals. 

What is a person-centered approach in memory care?

A person-centered approach to memory care prioritizes the unique needs and preferences of each resident while recognizing the personality of the individual. This holistic approach to memory care recognizes the importance of treating each person separately from another. Person-centered care in memory senior living communities can look like this:

• Increased Independence

Person-centered care and individualized care plans promote independence in seniors by treating them as an individual and not as a group. Person-centered care supports autonomy and allows residents to participate in activities that bring them joy and a sense of accomplishment while receiving the level of care they need, no more and no less. 

• More Meaningful Activities 

Person-centered care allows memory care communities to know their residents on an individual level. This means we quickly learn your loved one’s likes, dislikes, wishes and fears. Understanding what our community likes allows us to plan more meaningful activities that we know will engage and inspire our residents. 

• Regular Assessments 

Dementia is not stagnant. While we wish the disease didn’t progress, we know a senior may struggle with consistent changes in their memory loss diagnosis. Regular assessments, family involvement and medical input allow us to update our personalized care plan, giving you and your loved one a flexible memory care experience that works. 

Find Holistic Memory Care in Oregon

Contact us today If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security of residing in an independent living community. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Beaverton, OR, take care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Mitigating Fall Risk in Older Adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one out of every five Americans aged 65 years and older has a fall that results in an injury such as broken bones or a head injury.  However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving.  Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”

They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall.  Their first piece of advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention.  Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects include dizziness or sleepiness that could contribute to falls.  

While falls are common in seniors 65 years of age and older, individuals with dementia are at an even greater risk.  Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and staying focused on the task at hand.  Other issues that may increase the risk of falls include poor eyesight and chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, and arthritis or numbness in the feet.  If you often feel dizzy or lightheaded upon standing or suddenly sitting up, ask your doctor if you might have postural hypotension, and find out how you can alleviate the symptoms.    

Further tips to reduce your risk include having your eyes checked annually and updating your glasses when needed.  In addition, talk to your doctor about the best footwear for inside the house as well as outside.  Check your home for trip hazards (the CDC has a list of tips) and install grab bars in the bathroom.  Finally, ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen your leg muscles as well as balance-training exercises to improve balance.   

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our community is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety.  Each of our suites is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. We also recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide a full calendar of activities that includes a variety of exercise programs.  For more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, AZ please visit our website or give us a call.

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 for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Sources:cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/, agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm, alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/

Make Your Senior Years Healthier Than Ever

While it is true that we are all living longer, there are some steps you can take to help make those years healthier than ever.  The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors incorporate the following habits into their daily lives: eat a balanced diet; keep your mind and body active; do not smoke; get regular checkups; and practice safety habits to avoid accidents and prevent falls.

The Family Doctor website also offers some common sense advice on how even small changes in your lifestyle can improve your health even if you are already a senior.  Their primary recommendation is to add physical activity to your daily life and make changes to your diet.

By increasing your daily physical activity, it will help improve the strength of your bones and muscles.  In addition, we know that stronger muscles can help to prevent falls, and if you do experience a fall, those stronger bones are less apt to break.  By daily exercising, you can also help improve many chronic health problems such as diabetes.  

Seniors new to exercising should consult their health care provider before they begin.  Once they are given the go ahead, they need to start slowly.  Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do and experts suggest breaking up 30 minutes of daily activity into increments if it is easier for you.  Consider walking for 15 minutes twice a day or doing 10 minutes 3 times a day.   Strength training also offers seniors benefits but again the suggestion is to begin slowly.  Start with 1 or 5-pound weights and do a few exercises at a time.  Resistance bands are also easy to use and can help to strengthen upper arms and leg muscles. 

The article also suggests making changes to your diet. Try making small changes one at a time that add up to improved health.  Adding more fiber to your meals gets your colon working better and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. A heart healthy diet to try is the Mediterranean diet which promotes foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Lastly, they recommend you drink more water and eat more whole foods.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our community is designed to promote residents’ health and well-being with a range of senior care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities.  Our beautiful property has 38 independent living Casitas for residents who do not require care services. For assisted living, we offer 65 suites and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides an additional 35 suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, AZ. 

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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.
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Source: familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html