Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

By MorningStar

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Assisted Living at MorningStar of Beaverton

March 20, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Many families with elderly parents or loved ones are uncertain just what to expect from an assisted living community.  While each community has its own personality and differs from the type of services and amenities offered, typically “assisted living” is a long-term care option that provides personal care support services such as bathing, dressing, meals, medication management, and transportation.  According to aPlaceforMom.com, assisted living may offer “a more cost effective, residential approach to delivering many of the same services either by employing home health agencies or personal care staff.”

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we offer 66 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations as well as provide residents with a whole host of resort-style amenities and services.  Upon joining our community, the resident and their family will meet with our Wellness Director for a thorough assessment of their needs that is used to create a customized care plan.  

Furthermore, regardless of the level of care you receive, all residents have an onsite 24/7 Care Manager that is ready to ensure their safety and comfort.  We also offer a licensed nurse onsite 5 days a week and on call 24/7; medication management by certified med care managers; periodic care plan reviews; and scheduled health & wellness evaluations.

As MorningStar defines health and well-being holistically, we are proud to offer a range of services and programs that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit.  We consider wellness to be a joint effort between our Life Enrichment and Wellness programs, which play a critical role in making MorningStar the destination for successful aging.

Please visit our website for more information about our new community opening soon.  In addition to our 66 assisted living suites, we offer 38 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in assisted living 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 to learn more about our exceptional community.

March 20, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, senior living, independent living
Healthy Seniors
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Schedule a Tour to See Our Beautiful Senior Living Community

March 19, 2019 by Karla A

We opened our doors to residents in January committed to provide the best assisted and independent living Peoria AZ has to offer.  Our website has a lot of information about MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s new senior living community, but to really get an ideal of what we are all about, we encourage you to schedule a tour.  Located on our home page is a link to “Schedule a Tour” that takes just a few minutes to fill out.   

An onsite tour is important for many reasons and gives you the chance to experience it with your own eyes, ears, and instincts.  Remember this may be the place where you or your loved decide to make their new home.  A tour also allows you to evaluate the community for cleanliness and to get an idea of the daily routine of the residents.  Additionally you will get to meet the staff and talk to residents.  

Some of the questions you will want to ask include information regarding staff members’ credentials and have they gone through background checks or received any special training.   Does the staff seem friendly and do residents appear to be well cared for and happy?  If you can, eat a meal at the community as it gives you an idea of the quality of food as well as time to visit with staff and residents.   

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we recommend that you plan on spending at least 45 minutes with us during your tour.  You are welcome to join us for lunch (please let us know when you set up the tour) and if you do, please allow approximately 90 minutes so you can enjoy your meal.  We will tailor your visit to your priorities and let us know if you have any special concerns.  Once you complete our online form, we will get back to you ASAP to set up a convenient time to come and visit our beautiful community.    

At MorningStar of Golden Ridge, we are proud to offer the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve in order to create a true home for residents in a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest communities for assisted and independent living Peoria AZ offers.

 

March 19, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living
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Normal Aging or Memory Loss Problem?

March 15, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

As we age, many of us experience occasional memory loss.  While it may be worrisome, most likely it is just a normal part of growing older.  In the case of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, a common indicator of the disease is memory loss that happens so often it disrupts daily life.  The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and recommends if you or a loved one has any of them, to see your health care provider. 

The first sign that you or a loved one’s memory loss may be a sign of a bigger problem is constantly forgetting new information.  Memory loss may include: needing to have the same information repeated over and over; forgetting important dates and events; and relying more and more on family members or memory aids to handle things.  

Another way memory loss can adversely affect a person’s life is when it becomes difficult to problem solve.  He or she may find it hard to do things they have done well in the past such as keeping track of monthly bills or following a recipe.  Some individuals with Alzheimer’s have problems losing their way when traveling familiar routes or keeping track of the month or season of the year.  Also, a person may start putting things away in odd places and not remember where they put them.  We encourage you to read the Alzheimer’s Association’s full list of common signs of Alzheimer’s. 

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge, we compassionately provide care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Our beautiful new community offers 35 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood designed to care for those in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest senior living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

Sources:alz.org/10-signs-symptoms-alzheimers dementia.asp?gclid=CjwKCAiA5OrTBRBlEiwAXXhT6GgfGndmLCyUKJeoYgXhfT3VTwaijPzav4tZA07yxVBjxgPJzwGVdRoCcKwQAvD_BwE

March 15, 2019 /Karla A
alzheimer's, dementia, memory care
Healthy Seniors
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The Advantages of Senior Living

March 15, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Today’s senior living communities are designed to offer older adults carefree retirement years, and many seniors report they prefer community-style living to living alone.  This is probably due to the fact that senior living communities, which are rather a new concept, are tailored to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. 

If an older adult is still a homeowner, a senior living community provides the opportunity to say goodbye to never-ending yard work, home maintenance and housekeeping chores.  After all who wants to spend their precious retirement years mowing the lawn or shoveling snow when you can use the time for more fulfilling activities? 

Another benefit senior living offers is it helps to eliminate the loneliness or isolation many seniors experience after they retire.  At MorningStar we offer all kinds of entertaining and meaningful activities that provide seniors a way to stay engaged and continue to grow.  Socializing at MorningStar is as easy as going to our beautiful dining room for a meal or participating in a morning exercise class.  Even if you are the type of person who values privacy, senior living offers the reassurance of having people around when you need them.  

Predictable budgeting is yet one more benefit of senior living as most of your living expenses will be included in your monthly fee.  At MorningStar that includes basic cable TV and utilities, daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, fitness centers, salon, onsite theatre, bistro, saline swimming pool with hot tub, and more. 

Furthermore, if you start out in one of our 38 Casitas for independent living, and down the road, require help with daily personal care or memory care, you get priority placement and will not pay an internal transfer fee.  We consider this just one of the many advantages to living in a community with more than one neighborhood under our roof.   

For luxury assisted or independent living, Peoria AZ’s new MorningStar of Golden Ridge is sure to impress.  We are a safe, comfortable community with resort-style amenities, meaningful activities and a staff who is honored to serve seniors.  Please contact us regarding availability and pricing.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest assisted and independent living Peoria AZ offers.

March 15, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, independent living, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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Assisted Living at MorningStar of Arvada

March 15, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

If you are confused with what the term assisted living means, you are not alone.  Relatively a new concept, assisted living is based on the European model and is not a nursing home. Assisted living is designed for seniors who require a little assistance with their daily personal care such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, etc. Furthermore, rather than taking away a person’s independence, assisted living provides the services seniors need to maintain an independent lifestyle. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, our assisted living offers five levels of care. Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family. Also regardless of your level of care, we provide all residents with around-the-clock Care Managers (at least one team member is CPR trained on each shift) to meet needs and ensure your comfort and safety. 

On the MorningStar website, we list the many clinical services available to residents including Medication Management, which is performed by Certified Med Care Managers, routine care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations. In addition we have a licensed nurse on-site or on-call, and provide transportation to residents’ medical appointments. If you or your loved one is diabetic, we offer diabetes management as well as oxygen administration services. MorningStar also provides more advanced care such as catheter and colostomy care or palliative/hospice care. 

For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems, and is smartly-designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents. Assisted living also includes three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, housekeeping and laundry services, trash removal and full access to all onsite amenities (including pool, spa, and health club).

We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our assisted living as well as our independent living and memory care options.

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 visit to see for yourself our exceptional community for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

March 15, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, senior living, independent living
Healthy Seniors
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MorningStar of Arvada Offers Assisted Living at Its Best!

March 15, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

If you are considering assisted living, we encourage you to take a look at the new MorningStar of Arvada. Scheduled to open soon, we have meticulously seen to it that every detail has been paid to ensure residents the most carefree retirement possible. Our team is looking forward to welcoming residents and helping them feel right at home.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of assisted living, it is built on a European social model, and offers a new paradigm in wellness and engagement for those seniors who need a little support with personal daily care activities. At MorningStar of Arvada, new residents and their families sit down with our Wellness Director to create a care plan designed around their special needs and safety. The resident will have around-the-clock Care Managers as well the services of our full-time licensed nurses on call 24/7 and onsite 5–7 days/week. 

Among our many services, we have a CPR-trained staff member on every shift, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, care planning reviews, and scheduled health and wellness evaluations. All assisted living residents receive three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef that are both tasty and nutritional and served restaurant style in our dining room. In addition, MorningStar of Arvada offers scheduled transportation along with a whole host of enrichment programs to support and entertain residents. If you are wondering, are also pet friendly. 

Along with our assisted living suites, MorningStar of Arvada also offers an independent living option with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has secure suites dedicated to memory care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us through our website, or give us a call. Be sure to ask about our incentive program that offers up to $5,000 in savings for early depositors.

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 learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada has to offer.

March 15, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, memory care, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Resort-style Amenities

March 13, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Starting with our community’s exceptional architecture and design, every detail of MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge is intended to ensure our resident’s utmost comfort and wellbeing.  Our community offers a beautiful campus on 8+ acres, conveniently located in Peoria at North 67th Avenue and West Golden Lane, near Cardinal’s Stadium.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 bright assisted living suites in a nearby building, and our Reflections Neighborhood devotes 35 secure suites for those with memory impairment. While our community is three separate neighborhoods all residents receive a whole host of resort-style amenities unmatched by our competitors.  From beautiful gathering areas that are perfect to sit and enjoy a visit from family and friends or a chat with other residents to your well-appointed apartment, you are sure to feel right at “home.”

Other amenities enjoyed by our independent living and assisted living residents include a saline swimming pool with hot tub, library, bistro bar, fitness centers, Wi-Fi in common areas, and a full-service salon.  We also offer attached garages (Casitas), as well as onsite theatre/chapel, outdoor dining patio and much more.

Furthermore, MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s dining services are topnotch.  Meals are prepared by our own Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our attractive dining areas.  Assisted living and memory care residents received three daily meals, and Casitas residents (independent living) receive two daily meals.  Please see our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest independent and assisted living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

March 13, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, independent living, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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Looking for an Assisted Living Community?

March 13, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Just as MorningStar at Golden Ridge encourages anyone interested in our new community’s assisted living option to schedule a visit, so do most other senior living communities.   This is because you cannot really get an idea of what a community looks like or feels like without seeing it in person. 

In addition to wanting you or your loved one to be happy with the choice, your priorities most likely include finding a community that is well run, clean, and within your price range.   Experts recommend your first step should be to do some research over the Internet and on the phone.  Narrowing down your choices includes considering things such as how convenient will it be for the family to visit and is it located close to a pharmacy, medical facilities and shopping.  Furthermore, find out if the community is accepting new residents, and if not, you may want to go on their waiting list.   

Senior support networks like Caring.com has a great checklist (it is even printable) of tips to consider when touring an assisted living community.  To start with, they say you should always listen to your gut instincts.   From the moment you walk through the door, do you get a good feeling?  Regardless of how beautifully decorated, does it feel welcoming and have a home-like atmosphere?  If they offer the service, eat lunch with the residents as it will help to give you a more complete picture of the community. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge encourages families to schedule a visit as we are proud of each and every aspect of our community.  Not only is our community beautifully decorated and designed for residents’ every comfort and need, but we have a staff that is committed to serving seniors and come to work each day with a smile on their face.  Please visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to learn more about our exceptional independent and assisted living community.

Source: caring.com/articles/assisted-living-facilities-choosing-the-right-one#research

March 13, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, independent living, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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Exercise Can Help Seniors Improve Their Balance

March 13, 2019 by Karla A

It is important for older adults to take precautions to prevent falls as the resulting injuries tend to be more serious such as a broken hip or head trauma.  However doctors also point out that being sedentary is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is important to keep moving.     

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that one out of every four Americans aged 65 and older falls every year but say there are things that seniors can do to help prevent a fall.  The trick is to find a way to safely move about while taking into account any balance issues you may experience.  

As many adults are less active as they get older, it can exacerbate the physical effects of aging. Experts say, “Failure to engage in even mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”  Other issues that can lead to falls include poor eyesight and taking medications with side-effects such as drowsiness, dizziness and low blood pressure.  Chronic health conditions including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and arthritis as well as problems with numbness in the feet can also increase the risk of falls.   

The good news is there are a variety of easy-to-do exercises that can help seniors improve their balance. Even if you rely on a cane or other assistive devices, balance exercises can improve your mobility.  While many independent and assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge offer a variety of exercise options, there are also some that can be done throughout the day right at home.  One example is to try standing on one foot while close to the kitchen counter.  If you need, keep your hand on the counter for support and as you feel more confident try taking your hand off.   Another thing you can do is to try and get up from a chair without using your arms.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  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 the area’s finest independent and assisted living.

 

Source: agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm

March 13, 2019 /Karla A
senior health
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Make Your Senior Years Healthy

March 11, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Since Americans are living longer, it is more important than ever to take care of yourself to ensure your later years are good ones.  The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains there are real benefits to a healthy lifestyle and adds that it is never too late to begin.  Another recently published study by Sian Robinson, a professor of nutritional epidemiology at the University of Southampton, also emphatically states that, "Improving the quality of your diet can have a beneficial effect on health, whatever your age."

Experts advise that one of the best things older adults can do to stay healthy is to eat a balanced diet and to keep their minds and bodies active.  Other healthy habits include not smoking, getting regular checkups and learning how to prevent falls. 

At the FamilyDoctor.org website, they remind seniors that even small changes such as daily physical activity can make a difference.  Moreover as you increase your physical activity, it will help to strengthen your bones and muscles, which in turn can help prevent falls.  If you do fall, stronger bones are less susceptible to breaking. 

Participating in routine physical activity also helps your brain and studies indicate that people who regularly exercise make better decisions.  In fact exercise is so important to our health that experts say the benefits outweigh the risk of an exercise-related injury.  Even chronic health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease may improve with exercise.   The NIH does suggests that seniors new to exercising start slowly; and before you begin any new exercise, consult your health care provider.   

Another easy-to-do tip from Family Doctor is to eat food high in fiber.  Not only does it help your colon work better but it may help to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.  Some research suggests it may help to lower your cholesterol levels.   Whatever healthy changes you decide to incorporate into your everyday life should help you feel better and can be done over a period of time.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest independent and assisted living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

March 11, 2019 /Karla A
aging, senior health, assisted living
Healthy Seniors
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Finding the Perfect Gift for Your Favorite Senior

March 11, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

It can be difficult to find the right gift for an elderly parent, grandparent or relative who has moved into an assisted or independent living community.  We recognize that they have had a lifetime of gifts, and as they are no longer running a larger household, they not only do not need as much but have a limited amount of space. 

The A Place for Mom website has a few suggestions for gifts that are sure to please.  One suggestion is to give them a blanket or throw as seniors often suffer from the cold.  However if you want to personalize your gift, there are several companies that will create a cozy throw using one of your family photos.  A talking photo album also lets you create memories through family pictures and when it has recorded voices of the grandkids, it is really special.

Another idea is to give them a lap desk that allows them to easily read a book or to write a letter from the comfort of their chair.  You could add a couple of adult coloring books illustrated with things they enjoy or places they have been along with some colored pencils and markers to complete your gift. 

A personalized gift basket can be filled with all kinds of things such as their favorite soaps, lotions and perfumes or colognes.  You can also fill a basket with special treats including chocolates, cookies and a small plug-in teapot and tea bags, or do one up with slippers, grippy socks, and a couple of pairs of fashionable compression socks.

Furthermore, tablets and iPads make good gifts as their touch-screen technology and large print options make them easy for seniors to use.  If your loved one is not tech savvy, set up the tablet before you give it to them with their email address, facebook page and other personal items.  It may be fun to pre-load a few games that you think they would enjoy and add some photos of the family.  Include with the gift the offer to be their “tech support” if they have any problems.   

At MorningStar of Golden Ridge, we are proud to offer the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve in order to create a true home for residents in a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest communities for assisted and independent living Peoria AZ offers.

March 11, 2019 /Karla A
aging, assisted living, senior living
Healthy Seniors

Senior Living at MorningStar Meets a Variety of Needs

March 09, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers a range of living options that meet the varying needs of seniors.  Our community’s independent living offers 38 Casitas as quadraplexes with attached garages.  In a neighboring building, we have 65 assisted living suites and 35 secure suites dedicated to the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s Casitas are the perfect answer for independent seniors who wish for a carefree, active lifestyle that provides built-in companionship and predictable budgeting.  As a resident, you will not need to spend so much time cooking but rather can take advantage of two daily, tasty meals as well as our vast assortment of activities and wellness programs primarily held in our Clubhouse.  

As a part of our community, you give up having to worry about maintaining a home both inside and out.  Our Casitas are equipped with everything you need including a washer/dryer along with full kitchens featuring a breakfast bar, high-quality appliances and premium quartz countertops.  Our community also has spacious common areas to enjoy the outdoors as well as a saline pool.   

MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for seniors who want to retain their independence but require a little assistance on a daily basis.  We offer various levels of support with activities of daily living along with 24/7 Care Managers, a full-time licensed nurse and more to ensure the comfort, well-being and safety of our residents.

In terms of our memory care, we feel privileged to help those suffering from memory loss and our goal is to find ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual every day. By learning about a person’s life, history and preferences, we are able to personalize their care and treat each resident with the respect and dignity they deserve.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s senior living options. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest independent and assisted living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

March 09, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living, independent living, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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Learn More About Memory Care Communities

March 09, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

The most recent statistics from the Alzheimer's Association indicate that one in ten people 65 years and older in the U.S. have Alzheimer's, and as baby boomers age, the number is expected to grow.  Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association cites a statistic showing that more than 16 million Americans are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia.  If you are currently in that position, remember you are not alone and there are many resources designed to help. 

It is a fact that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a big job and it can take a toll on the health and wellbeing of a family caretaker, which is why it is imperative to recognize when the task becomes too difficult.  This is the time to make meaningful lifestyle changes for both you and the person with dementia, and one option is to look into an assisted living community that offers specialized memory care. 

At A Place for Mom website, they discuss some of the reasons why memory care should be considered for both the safety of the person suffering with the disease as well as for the benefit of caretakers.  The habit of “wandering” is one of those circumstances and can be a frequent problem of dementia, posing a safety risk including an increase in falls and injuries. Another common trait of Alzheimer’s is a condition known as “sundowner syndrome,” which causes a person to become agitated and to exhibit aggressive behavior later in the day that can be very disruptive.  

Also, communities with devoted memory care neighborhoods like MorningStar at Golden Ridge are specifically designed to safely and securely care for a person with Alzheimer’s unlike most private homes.   In addition memory care offers 24/7 care providers that are available to deal with situations even in the dead of night.  Furthermore, as the disease progresses, care needs become even more demanding and can be overwhelming for a family caregiver.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge proudly provides the very best in independent and assisted living 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 to learn more about memory care at our new community.

March 09, 2019 /Karla A
alzheimer's, dementia, memory care
Healthy Seniors
assisted-living-glendale.jpg

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s Great Leadership Team

March 09, 2019 by Karla A

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s goal is to provide the best senior living in the Peoria/Glendale area.  Along with our beautiful new building and grounds we have a compassionate, loving staff, which starts at the top with our committed leadership team.   

Regan Stone, our Executive Director, is one of the big reasons MorningStar at Golden Ridge feels like a true “home.”  Regan believes MorningStar’s purpose-driven and service-minded leadership ideals enable him to make a difference in the lives of both residents and team members.  He adds that, “I want the adult children of residents to sense (and see!) that our community loves and cares for their parents the same way we love and care for our own parents.” 

Our Wellness Director, Kim Gaunt, relates how in her first year of nursing she had a patient who at 103 years old who was allowing her, a twenty-year-old, to care for her. Kim felt overwhelmed that she wasn’t doing enough for her. That experience is summed up by Kim, “from that point on, I have kept my heart open for seniors, advocating for their right to quality care and respect from all of us.”  About MorningStar Kim adds, “MorningStar puts God before all things; in business this is a rare thing. I knew this was where I needed to be”  

Gia Vasey is Golden Ridge’s Director of Community Relations.  Gia cites the loving culture that drew her to MorningStar and feels honored to belong here.  She explains that “I am surrounded by passionate professionals who are like-minded and kind-hearted, who care intensely about other people. Our seniors and their families become our family, demonstrated in a thousand ways through the caring details of day-to-day interactions.”   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is certainly lucky to have such a caring leadership team.  Our new community offers 38 Casitas for independent living as well as 65 suites for assisted living.  We also have 35 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.  Please visit our website to learn more about why our community is so special, and if you like what you see, set up a tour to visit our community in person.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  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 the area’s finest independent and assisted living.

March 09, 2019 /Karla A
assisted living
ms joint 3.jpg

Help Your Parent Transition to Assisted Living

March 08, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Now that MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge is close to our grand opening, we will soon be busy welcoming new residents and enjoying getting to know them.   We want to help make the transition for our assisted living residents a smooth one and our team will be working to that end. 

MorningStar understands that often the move to assisted living is done because of a life changing event so not only is the person adjusting to a new home but may be mourning the loss of their old life.  For some seniors, moving into assisted living can be stressful as they start to feel more and more of their independence is being taken away from them.  Our job is to be ready to help smooth over any rough patches.

Even before someone makes the move into assisted living there are some things families can do to help ease the coming change.  We recommend that you let your parent take part in making the decision as it gives them meaning and purpose.  Also, while you may not want to put your loved one through taking tour after tour of senior living communities, they can certainly help research places and narrow down the list to the most favorable ones.   Once the family weighs considerations such as price, services, location, etc., and agrees on a couple of choices, your parent should take a tour as well as go back a few times to spend some time observing the community. 

Other ways to assist the transition include helping them get to know the staff in advance.  Also future visits can be planned around an activity they would enjoy or eating a meal with the community.  After a decision is made, let your parent decide what furniture they want to move with them and help them decorate their new home.   Just remember your parent may go through an adjustment period so give them time and be ready to listen.   Please visit our website for more information about our beautiful, loving community.       

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest independent and assisted living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

March 08, 2019 /Karla A
aging, assisted living, independent living
Healthy Seniors
ms joint 6.jpg

Seniors Still Need Good Nutrition

March 08, 2019 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Even for older adults, good nutrition is important for a healthy lifestyle.  A study from the National Institute of Health (NIH) states that “As you age, you might need less energy. But you still need just as many of the nutrients in food.” 

As a part of their findings, they recommend avoiding foods loaded with empty calories such as potato chips, cookies, soda and alcohol to ensure you get your proper amount of daily nutrients.  Instead they advise eating wholesome, nutrient-rich foods that are low in cholesterol and saturated or trans fats.

One of the benefits of eating well is that it may help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type II diabetes and bone loss as well as some types of cancer.  In fact if you already suffer from one of those diseases, maintaining a healthy diet along with staying physically active can help you to better manage them.  Additionally adopting a healthy diet can help to reduce your blood pressure and lower your cholesterol. 

Wholesome, healthy foods help keep muscles, bones, organs, and other body parts strong and vitamin-rich food can boost immunity and fight against illness-causing toxins.  Furthermore, a healthy diet can help you feel better as well as give you more energy.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we wholeheartedly agree that good nutrition is important for seniors.  This is why our residents are served meals that are not only very healthy but also delicious. Our Executive Chef prioritizes the use of ingredients which support brain health by their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Our beautiful community offers a choice of 65 well-appointed, private assisted living suites, including two-bedroom, one and one-half bath floor plans. In addition, if you’re looking for independent living, we offer 38 Casitas as quadraplexes with attached garages. Within our Reflections Neighborhood, we devote 35 secure suites to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  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 the area’s finest independent and assisted living.

March 08, 2019 /Karla A
aging, senior health, assisted living
Healthy Seniors
ms joint 3.jpg

Help Your Parent Transition to Assisted Living

March 04, 2019 by Karla A

Now that MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge is close to our grand opening, we will soon be busy welcoming new residents and enjoying getting to know them.   We want to help make the transition for our assisted living residents a smooth one and our team will be working to that end. 

MorningStar understands that often the move to assisted living is done because of a life changing event so not only is the person adjusting to a new home but may be mourning the loss of their old life.  For some seniors, moving into assisted living can be stressful as they start to feel more and more of their independence is being taken away from them.  Our job is to be ready to help smooth over any rough patches.

Even before someone makes the move into assisted living there are some things families can do to help ease the coming change.  We recommend that you let your parent take part in making the decision as it gives them meaning and purpose.  Also, while you may not want to put your loved one through taking tour after tour of senior living communities, they can certainly help research places and narrow down the list to the most favorable ones.   Once the family weighs considerations such as price, services, location, etc., and agrees on a couple of choices, your parent should take a tour as well as go back a few times to spend some time observing the community. 

Other ways to assist the transition include helping them get to know the staff in advance.  Also future visits can be planned around an activity they would enjoy or eating a meal with the community.  After a decision is made, let your parent decide what furniture they want to move with them and help them decorate their new home.   Just remember your parent may go through an adjustment period so give them time and be ready to listen.   Please visit our website for more information about our beautiful, loving community.       

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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 the finest independent and assisted living in the Peoria/Glendale area.

March 04, 2019 /Karla A
aging, assisted living, independent living
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