MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Assisted Living at Its Finest

February 19, 2020 by Karla A

When searching for senior living options, many people are not entirely sure what the term “assisted living” means. We will try and clarify. One of the first things to know is assisted living is not just another word for a nursing home. Nor does it offer the same level of care and typically is not as expensive.

So, what is assisted living? Assisted living is designed for seniors who want to retain their independence but require some assistance with daily personal care activities. While not all assisted living communities are the same in terms of the level of care, typically assisted living provides services for activities like bathing and dressing as well as prepared meals.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we create individualized care plans for each assisted living resident after talking with them and their family. Furthermore, during the course of your stay, your care plan will be regularly reviewed to ensure it addresses your needs. Also, regardless of the level of care, all residents receive the assurance of having 24/7 onsite Care Managers who help to ensure their safety and meet their every need.

As a resident of MorningStar, you will get three daily meals that are meticulously prepared largely from scratch by our Executive Chef. Each meal is both nutritional and delicious and we modify recipes to address a number of different dietary restrictions including low sodium or low fat, sugar-free, no sugar, and vegetarian options.

In addition, our assisted living residents have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and programs that are designed to promote physical, intellectual and spiritual wellness. If you are looking for the best senior living in the Peoria, AZ area, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about MorningStar at Golden Ridge.

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 Peoria, AZ.

Are You Unsteady on Your Feet?

February 15, 2020 by Karla A

Many older adults, especially those in assisted living communities, are no longer as steady on their feet as they used to be. This puts them in danger of a fall, which can have many serious repercussions on a seniors’ health. If you are considering getting a walker to help you move more safely around, you need to know something about them.

For starters since there are several kinds of walkers, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assist you on finding the most suitable one. They will make sure it is your size as well as the right type. To determine size, you should be able to stand between the rails, and the width of the walker should be level with the insides of your wrists. A professional will also teach you how to use the walker and provide tips for normal activities such as sitting down while using a walker. This is done by backing up until you feel the seat of the chair behind you. Now bend forward at your hip and reach behind with one hand to grab the armrest. Do the same with your other hand as you carefully lower yourself onto the center of the chair.

Common types of walkers include a basic walker that has four legs with rubber tips on each one. To use, a person must pick up the walker as they take a step. A wheeled walker can have two fixed wheels on the front that do not swivel side to side or have rubber tips on the front legs and small wheels on the back. These walkers allow people to walk more naturally as they do not need to be picked up with each step. A three-wheel walker has one wheel in front and two in back and offers the advantage of being lighter and easier to move around in smaller spaces.

Rollators are four-wheeled walkers and can be equipped with a seat for a basket. These walkers are equipped with hand brakes and are ideal for people who do not need to apply a lot of weight to the walker. However, they are not recommended for people with dementia as they may forget to use the hand brake.

Are you in the process of looking at assisted living communities in the Beaverton, OR area for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you visit MorningStar of Beaverton’s website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior 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 the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Walking is Beneficial to Seniors’ Health

February 14, 2020 by Karla A

Experts agree that walking is beneficial to seniors’ health as it can stop bone mass loss, strengthen leg and abdominal muscles, and improve circulation by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for heart disease. Walking can also lead to weight loss or maintain your weight, help you sleep better, increase your mental sharpness, and improve balance and stability. It can even increase your lifespan. However if you have not exercised in a while, doctors recommend you start slowly and only gradually increase your distance and pace.

If you let your health care provider know you are going to start walking, they can help you determine a safe starting point. From the onset you may only be able to walk a short distance, but over time, you will be able to go farer and should start noticing benefits fairly quickly. Additionally experts say even if you need a cane or a walker to safely move about, don’t let that stop you from walking, just take it with you. Also wear properly fitted comfortable shoes that provide good arch support. If you have foot problems, talk to your doctor about orthopedic shoes.

Remember do not overexert yourself. Walk at a safe pace and keep in mind that the most important thing is to just get started. For your safety, tuck your cell phone into a pocket that you can easy get to if the need arises and stay hydrated. To help keep you motivated, walk with a buddy or join a walking group.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we wholeheartedly agree that walking is great exercise for seniors and we offer many opportunities for exercise including walking for our independent living and assisted living residents. Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community, activities and programs, and our wide range of amenities.

Please consult your health care provider before starting any type of exercise.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Discover the Benefits of Senior Living at MorningStar of Arvada

February 14, 2020 by Karla A

Now that senior living communities have change dramatically from the past, more and more seniors are discovering the many advantages to senior living. Whether you are a senior who requires a little extra care or an active one who desires a more carefree lifestyle, senior living communities are becoming more and more appealing.

Today’s independent living and assisted living communities offer comfortable, carefree retirement years and are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. In a senior living community such as MorningStar of Arvada, residents find it easy to socialize and meet new friends as well as to engage in a variety of meaningful activities.

Another benefit of senior living is you can leave behind all of the chores required of a homeowner such as mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, and other routine, time-consuming chores that can be difficult for seniors. At MorningStar of Arvada, someone else handles the maintenance while you have the freedom to concentrate on more fulfilling activities.

Many times, older adults have medical conditions that result in them no longer being able or feeling comfortable driving, which is why one of MorningStar’s services includes transportation. We also provide routine trips to local shopping, entertainment venues, parks, museums and more.

MorningStar of Arvada invites you to schedule a tour to see for yourself why our residents are proud to call us “home”. Our community has 112 independent and assisted living suites that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans (some as large as 1374 square feet). In addition, we offer 29 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for memory care.

MorningStar of Arvada’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 living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO has to offer.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/why-seniors-prefer-senior-living-communities/

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MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Casitas for Active Seniors

February 12, 2020 by Karla A

While some seniors feel strongly about remaining in their homes after retirement, other seniors have discovered the many benefits of moving into an independent living community. MorningStar at Golden Ridge invites you to take a closer look at some of the advantages.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s friendly and comfortable independent living consists of 38 Casitas with resort style amenities. We are conveniently located to both Peoria and Glendale, and close to shopping, restaurants, and the medical community. And if you no longer wish to drive, we provide transportation to shopping, appointments and outings by both bus and private vehicle (additional fees may apply for private use beyond scheduled programs).

Our Casita homes are ideal for active seniors and include high-end finishes, side by side washer and dryer, and an attached garage. Our spacious common areas include an outdoor dining patio and a saline swimming pool with hot tub. MorningStar’s staff handles all of the maintenance, both inside and out along with twice monthly housekeeping. The base rent includes two meals per day, continental breakfast in the Clubhouse and a chef prepared meal in our beautiful dining room in the main building.

Along with our beautiful surroundings, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a variety of Life Enrichment programs, including fitness, social, enrichment, recreational and wellness, primarily held in the Clubhouse. Activities are centered around the interests and hobbies of residents with a full monthly calendar that has something for everyone. Whether you want to attend an exercise class, play cards or a board game, get a haircut, or catch a movie, MorningStar gives you the chance to do it all on-site.

Our senior living community also offers the security of predictable budgeting, which allows you to know just what your monthly expenses will be as most are included in your monthly fee. It also solves another problem many seniors face - loneliness. As we age, older adults can have difficulty getting out and about, and may be at risk for losing social ties and developing health problems that come with loneliness. MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers the advantage of a private Casita and the chance to socialize whenever you choose with built-in companionship.

Furthermore, while our operating license does not permit us to extend care to those in our independent living neighborhood, we can arrange for home health agencies to serve you, if the need arises. In addition, you will get priority placement (subject to availability) if you need to move into our assisted living or memory care. Please visit our website to learn more.

Having a Pet Helps People Live Longer, Healthier Lives

February 10, 2020 by Karla A

It turns out that being a pet owner can provide a range of benefits to seniors including helping them to live longer, healthier and more enjoyable lives. One clinical study done several years ago tracked heart disease survivors after they were discharged from the hospital. Studying survivors’ medical histories, lifestyles, families, and relationships, it found that, "The presence of a pet was the strongest social predictor of survival...not just for lonely or depressed people, but everyone - independent of marital status and access to social support from human beings."

Another study done by the American Psychological Association found pets provide an important source of social support to their elderly owners. Researchers explain that senior pet owners “fared better on several well-being (e.g., greater self-esteem, more exercise) and individual-difference (e.g., greater conscientiousness, less fearful attachment) measures.”

It may be the benefits come from the fact that pets offer unconditional affection and companionship. Also a pet requires seniors to stay engaged in the day-to-day process of caring for the animal as they need to feed, groom, walk and clean up after their pet.

If you are thinking of getting a pet for an elderly family member, it is recommended that you consider the person’s physical health and personality. AgingCare.com says you should also take into account the following: has the person owned a pet before; does the animal have a good temperament; and will owning a pet cause a financial hardship?

MorningStar of Beaverton’s goal is to provide the best senior living in the area, which is why we are happy to welcome our resident’s furry friends. Please contact us to learn more about our pet guidelines as well as our amenities, activities and wellness programs.

MorningStar of Beaverton’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 senior living community.

Sources: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21728449, petsfortheelderly.org, agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

Make Assisted Living More Affordable with Companion Living

February 05, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar of Beaverton recognizes that for some, assisted living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care.

Obviously it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However we know that option is not always available so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you.

We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interest as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. In addition, given the variety of floor plans and configurations we offer, you will be able to find an apartment that fits your needs.

Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community. The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident socialization with the broader community, and having someone around who knows the ropes is always helpful. Also you can look out for one another’s interests and most likely be the first one to notice a change in the other’s health or abilities. Also we all know, when a friend is present, everything else suddenly feels that much better.

We encourage you to visit MorningStar of Beaverton’s website to learn more about companion living. While you are there, set up a tour to visit us in person.

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MorningStar of Beaverton Invites You to Take a Tour

February 01, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar of Beaverton offers assisted living and memory care to area seniors and is committed to providing a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community for our residents. Although we think we are the area’s top assisted living home, don’t just take our word for it. Finding the best senior living yourself or a loved one is a very important decision, and a tour allows you to experience a community firsthand.

When you tour MorningStar of Beaverton, we know from the moment you walk through our door, you are sure to be impressed. Our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ every need and is beautifully decorated throughout to provide an atmosphere of comfort, relaxation and serenity. In addition, our stylish suites reflect the rest of the community.

A Place for Mom has a few tips for you when visiting an assisted living community. Look around, does the community feel fresh and clean? Observe a community activity to get an idea if residents are enjoying themselves. Also they suggest you pay attention to the staff’s friendliness. In addition, ask to see the outdoor space. If you can they recommend eating a meal as you will not only get a chance to sample the cuisine but will get to see residents in a relaxed setting. Be sure to ask questions about personal care, safety and security, housekeeping and laundry services, and move-in and move-out criteria. Above all, A Place for Mom advises that you trust your instincts.

For your tour, MorningStar of Beaverton asks that you allow at least 45 minutes in order for us to show off our community. If you would like to join us for a meal (just let us know when you are setting up your tour), please expect to be with us for at least 90 minutes to allow for a leisurely meal. Visit our website and use our quick link to set up a personalized tour of our lovely community or give us a call.

MorningStar of Beaverton represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/tips-for-touring-assisted-living

“Radiance” Guides the Way We Deliver Service!

January 31, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar Senior Living has four gorgeous senior living communities located in and around Phoenix. Our Valley of the Sun communities include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and our newest, MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Also our loving homes are proud to be part of a company with a mission to make a difference in senior living as well as throughout the world with purpose-driven, servant-minded leadership.

The MorningStar company was founded over 15 years ago by Ken Jaeger who wanted to create a new type of senior living, one that felt like Ken’s “grandmother’s home, defined by human touch and a sense of family. This philosophy lead Mr. Jaeger to create a culture defined less by what we do and more by why we do it; and we call this culture “Radiance.”

More than just a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart, Radiance guides the way we wish to deliver service – with depth of purpose, warmth and sincerity. In fact, we consider the concepts to be so vital to our mission that every employee, regardless of their position is trained in Radiance. Moreover as we know something needs to be practiced to become a habit, Radiance’s concepts are reinterated each day during our “Daily Huddle.”

While our intention is to ensure the finest care for our residents and to create the ultimate workplace for our staff, many of our team members say that Radiance has helped to make them a better person both professionally as well as personally. Just read what one team member writes in thanks to Mr. Jaeger for his founding values: “Radiance training is absolutely phenomenal! Thank you for investing so much into your company, residents and, especially, team. I appreciate that MorningStar strives not only to help team members be their best at work, but in their personal lives as well. Thank you for caring about our residents as much as we do. Thank you for creating an environment that conveys that. I feel privileged to work here; MorningStar is a part of me. Know that I am praying for you, our leaders and this company daily.

Currently we have various postings for assisted living jobs including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix’s four communities. To learn more about these excellent career opportunities, please visit MorningStar’s Career page and follow the link to “Assisted Living Jobs – Phoenix.” Become part of something inspirational, profound and rewarding!

At MorningStar’s Arcadia, Arrowhead, Fountain Hills & Golden Ridge communities, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built on honoring God and valuing all seniors, and we are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve. If you wish to thrive professionally and personally, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to rewarding assisted living jobs in Phoenix.

Social Connections Provide Many Benefits for Seniors

January 30, 2020 by Karla A

While children are encouraged to socialize, we often forget it is important for all of us, especially older adults, to socialize. However, as we age, circumstances such as retirement, the death of a spouse, and friends moving away or falling ill can makes it difficult for seniors to maintain healthy social connections.

The National Institute on Aging reported on several studies that appear to suggest a strong correlation between social interactions and the health and well-being of older adults. The research indicates social isolation and loneliness may have significant adverse effects on the elderly and impact their physical as well as mental health. Scientists explain that, “Positive indicators of social well-being may be associated with lower levels of interleukin-6 in otherwise healthy people. Interleukin-6 is an inflammatory factor implicated in age-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer.”

The studies suggest that socially isolated older adults have a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Loneliness may be a contributing factor for elevated systolic blood pressure as well as put older adults at risk for symptoms of depression.

Researchers believe that strong social connections may help to reduce stress and stave off anxiety and depression. One study even showed a 70 percent slower decrease in cognitive decline in those with a strong social network.

As one of the top communities for senior in living Peoria, AZ, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a whole host of wellness programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social connections. Each day residents have the opportunity to engage the mind, body and spirit as well as find ways to learn and contribute. Please visit our website to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

Source: nia.nih.gov/about/living-long-well-21st-century-strategic-directions-research-aging/research-suggests-positive

Want a Job that Makes You Feel Good Inside?

January 29, 2020 by Karla A

Now that we are in a New Year and a new decade, you be thinking about the direction your life is taking, especially your career. If you have a job that doesn’t bring you a sense of personal satisfaction and a good feeling about what you are doing each day, maybe it is time to make a change.

Have you ever thought about a job serving seniors? If that sounds like something you would be interested in, we suggest you do it at one of the best senior living communities in the Phoenix area. Currently we seek extraordinary individuals with virtues such as kindness, character, and selflessness to fill our open assisted living jobs at MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar of Fountain Hills and MorningStar at Golden Ridge.

You are sure to find something that is the perfect fit as our various openings require diverse skill sets, experience and educational backgrounds. Our roles include care managers, medication care managers/QMAPs, cooks, dining room servers and others. Moreover as our residential homes operate 24/7, many of our positions are full or part-time and may include evenings, nights or weekend shifts. In addition while MorningStar was founded on Judeo-Christian principles and we feel comfortable speaking of God and His protections, blessings and aid, we welcome employees and residents of all faiths and world views.

For more information about a specific posting, please visit our MorningStar’s Career page and follow our link to “Assisted Living Jobs - Phoenix.” Here you will find the responsibilities and duties of each position as well as a handy online application. Join a team that understands the magnitude of their contributions, and know they are making someone else’s life better, richer.

At MorningStar’s Arcadia, Arrowhead, Fountain Hills & Golden Ridge communities, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. With a foundation built on honoring God and valuing all seniors, we are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve. Would you love to make a difference in a senior’s life? If so, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to fulfilling assisted living jobs in Phoenix.

MorningStar of Beaverton Treats Memory Care Residents with Respect

January 28, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar of Beaverton offers unsurpassed assisted living and memory care. Along with 66 private assisted living suites, our Reflections Neighborhood has 38 secure suites in a variety of studio, studio with shared bath, and one-bedroom configurations devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The entire memory care area is specifically designed to allow our most tender residents the freedom to explore their surroundings safely and easily. Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible.

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help. Our community is staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease. Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes. MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents. Also as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

We invite you to schedule a tour and see firsthand why MorningStar is one of the best senior living communities in Beaverton. We know you will be gratified to discover a staff that is committed to providing compassionate, loving care and treating residents with the utmost dignity and respect they deserve.

Our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 living spaces and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Beaverton is one of the finest assisted living and memory care communities in the area.

Join a Team of Servant-minded, Purpose-driven Leaders

January 27, 2020 by Karla A

At the MorningStar senior living communities, we recognize the power of servant-minded leadership, and we believe it is what drives our success and rapid growth. Our company was founded on a basic, but profound truth: to honor God in all aspects of our business practices and relationships and to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals. Thus we are committed to creating communities that promote a healthy, engage lifestyle for our residents as well as providing them with the security and independence they need.

While a timeless concept, the term “servant leadership” was first introduced in an essay by Robert K. Greenleaf titled The Servant as Leader, which was published in 1970. The essay elaborates with the following: “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the need to assuage an unusual power drive or to acquire material possessions…” Thus the servant-first leader’s priority is to serve others’ needs as opposed to being someone who sees leadership as a way to simply attain material possessions.

Our Phoenix area MorningStar communities include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Each of our homes has built a team of service professionals who feel called, connected and empowered. These are men and women who understand the importance of investing in our resident-families as well as fellow team members, and have proudly helped us create a loving environment where stories are shared and lives are cherished.

Currently we are recruiting exceptional individuals with a felt calling to serve to fill a variety of assisted living jobs including housekeeping jobs in our Phoenix communities. MorningStar is an equal opportunity employer, and we offer competitive wages along with comprehensive benefits. Also to encourage a healthy work-life balance, we strive to accommodate shift preferences and present predictable schedules.

Please visit our website’s Career page and follow our link to “Assisted Living Jobs – Phoenix” for the full list of various assisted living jobs, detailed job descriptions, and an online application. While on our site, we invite you to take a look our Twice the Story video series that showcases the tender relationships that develop between our residents and team members throughout our MorningStar communities.

At MorningStar’s Arcadia, Arrowhead, Fountain Hills & Golden Ridge communities, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built on honoring God and valuing all seniors, and we are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve. If you have the heart of a caregiver, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to fulfilling assisted living jobs in Phoenix.

Source: https://www.greenleaf.org/what-is-servant-leadership/

Senior Living Options

January 25, 2020 by Karla A

Seniors often end up feeling confused about whether independent living or assisted living is their best senior living option. Experts say the most important thing is to base your decision on is how well you manage your daily personal care activities on your own.

If you need help with things like meal preparations, personal hygiene, managing medications, and household chores, assisted living is probably your best bet. However, if you are an active senior who is handling these tasks on your own but would like convenient access to hospitality services such as dining, wellness programs and activities, housekeeping, and companionship, independent living is perfect for you.

Moreover, for seniors who still feel comfortable managing their own personal care for now but worry things could change in the future, communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge are the answer. Our community offers 38 Casitas with attached garages for independent living. In addition, we have 65 suites for assisted living and 35 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. If down the road, you feel you need more assistance than our independent living offers, you will have priority to one of our assisted living or memory care suites.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is situated on a vibrant 8.8-acre campus with exceptional architecture and award-winning design. Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors. Please visit our website for more information and to inquire about pricing and availability.

Start Improving Your Health Today

January 23, 2020 by Karla A

Seniors often feel it is too late to make a difference in their health or that it may be too complicated to do so. The truth is that taking better care of your physical health can be quite simple and enjoyable and may help you feel like a new person.

The first piece of advice is to make sure you are managing your medical conditions, diseases and ailments in the most effective manner. This includes making sure you are receiving the best medical care for your medical issues as well as learning about and practicing activities that can help you better manage your conditions. Examples include certain types of exercises which can reduce your blood sugar and may even eliminate the need to take insulin or other medication for diabetes. Or making small changes to your diet to not only help you take off a few extra pounds but relieve pain in your back and knees.

Furthermore, enough cannot be said about the benefits of regular physical activity regardless of your age or state of health. Exercises for seniors should include daily or weekly routines to improve balance, flexibility, aerobic conditioning, and muscle strengthening. However before you integrate an exercise activity into your life, please consult with your health care provider.

Another aspect of improving your physical health is to practice good nutrition. Seniors can benefit from eating well and drinking plenty of water. Changing to a healthier diet will give you more energy and help you lose weight and prevent or alleviate the severity of illnesses.

Lastly experts say it is important for people of any age including seniors to get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep will help you feel more energetic during the day, and it is recommended seniors 65 years and older get seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we provide our residents with tasty, nutritious meals and plenty of opportunities to exercise. Committed to being one of the best senior living communities in the area, our goal is to give residents a true “home” with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please visit our website to learn more about our resort-style amenities and services.

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

Are You Unsteady on Your Feet?

January 22, 2020 by Karla A

If you or a loved one is starting to feel less steady on your feet and at risk of falling, a walker, cane or even a wheelchair or scooter is probably advisable. However, before you start using a hand-me-down walker or buy any-old cane; experts warn that one size does not fit all. In the case of a walker, to be an effective and safe mobility aid, it is important to have an expert help you pick out the best type and size for your needs.

As AgingCure.com points out, “The wrong device can negatively affect a senior’s stability, cause posture-related problems and even result in pain. Mobility aids come in all shapes and sizes, so selecting the right equipment and achieving a proper fit usually requires a professional’s assistance and expertise.” To get started determining what your needs are, experts recommend seeing your healthcare provider to discuss any problems you are having with your activities of daily living (ADLs). If they recognize a need for a mobility aid, they may refer you to an occupational or physical therapist.

The following are a couple of basic guidelines to know before you get started. A cane can help provide balance and stability and is ideal for someone who needs to support no more than 25% of their body weight. It is most useful for those minimally impaired or with weakness in one leg. Walkers are available in a variety of models but regardless of the style a “correct height of a walker is measured from the floor to the wrist, and the elbows should be flexed in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.” Experts also say the walker must be large enough to provide front and side support for the user.

A motorized scooter may be the answer for someone who has lost the ability to walk any distance but still has an adequate amount of strength in their arms and upper body to stay upright as well as drive the scooter. Again there are a variety of models including indoor and outdoor ones as well. Keep in mind though that most insurance companies and Medicare Part B typically only covers scooters for in-house use.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents. Visit our website to schedule an appointment to tour one of the area’s premier senior living communities.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/expert-advice-how-to-choose-a-mobility-aid-190138.htm

What Does an Elder Law Attorney Do?

January 18, 2020 by Karla A

There are some legal problems unique to older adults that many attorneys are not equipped to provide accurate advice about such as Medicaid, Social Security or disability claims, trusts or estate planning, or issues regarding long term care. When an elderly person requires the services of an attorney to protect their financial interests or to solve legal issues, experts recommend hiring an elder law attorney who specializes in advocating for the elderly and their loved ones.

The FindLaw website explains, “Most elder law attorneys handle a wide range of legal matters affecting an older or disabled person, including issues related to health care, long term care planning, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and other important matters.” However, remember that as with all attorneys, elder law attorneys also specialize in specific areas of the law so look for one that has the expertise you need.

Many families find it makes good sense to hire an elder attorney to protect and preserve their loved one’s assets when they sell their home to move into a senior living community. This is a case where you would want to find one that specializes in financial and estate planning. The elder attorney also can assist with legal issues that arise with the actual care of the senior including helping to sort out supplemental and long-term health insurance problems.

An elder attorney can draw up a durable power of attorney as well as draft a living will, living trust or other advance directives, or set up conservatorships and guardianships. They can help answer questions regarding nursing home resident rights and other patient rights,

To find an elder law attorney, experts recommend asking friends, family members or other business connections for referrals. Findlaw.com says you can check online and read through websites or use their online attorney directory.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: elder.findlaw.com/what-is-elder-law/what-does-an-elder-law-attorney-do-.html

Exercise Your Brain Daily

January 15, 2020 by Karla A

As we age, engaging in memory exercises is just important as physically excising our bodies. The Alzheimer’s Association offers recommendations on some easy ways to daily exercise our brain with activities that include reading, writing and doing crossword or other puzzles, playing games and attending events such as lectures or plays.

They state that there are four areas we can work on to help reduce our risk of cognitive decline: physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, cognitive activity, and social engagement. In fact, research has found that simply by keeping our brains active, we can actually increase its vitality and may even help to generate new brain cells.

An article on the “6 simple steps to keep your mind sharp at any age” from the Harvard Health Publication outlines ways to help prevent cognitive decline and reduce your risk of dementia. The article stresses the importance of continuing to learn as challenging our brains with mental exercises is “believed to activate processes that help maintain individual brain cells and stimulate communication among them.”

MorningStar of Beaverton could not agree more. Our senior living community is loaded with activities that are not only fun but also help to stimulate our brains. Just a quick look at our monthly calendar shows an abundance of activities such as word, board, and trivia games that help to challenge our brains. Residents at MorningStar enjoy games such as Dominoes, hangman, Bingo, Pictionary, and Yahtzee.

Regardless of personal interest, our seniors find plenty to do to keep them interested in life. With a range of activities such as baking, sing-alongs, arts and crafts, and fun-filled card games, residents stay social and keep their brains active.

MorningStar of Arvada Offers Resort-style Amenities

January 14, 2020 by Karla A

Starting with our community’s exceptional architecture and design, every detail of MorningStar Senior Living of Arvada is intended to ensure our resident’s utmost comfort and wellbeing. Our community offers a beautiful setting on 1.5 acres, encircled by historic Golden CO and close to the Arvada Reservoir.

MorningStar of Arvada offers 71 suites for independent living, 41 suites for assisted living, and our Reflections Neighborhood devotes 29 secure memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. While our community has three separate living options 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 swimming pool with hot tub, art studio, bistro, sports bar, health center, fitness room, and a full-service salon. We also offer a private dining room for family dinners, as well as onsite theatre/chapel, outdoor dining deck, rooftop terrace, and much more.

Furthermore, MorningStar of Arvada’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 receive three daily meals, and independent living residents receive two daily meals (continental breakfast and chef-prepared lunch or dinner). Please see our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please schedule a visit to see the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO offers.

Living Healthy into Your Eighties and Beyond

January 14, 2020 by Karla A

The website, Everyday Health Media reports that you can expect to live on average another 19.3 years if you reach the age of 65. However they explain in order to be one of those lucky enough to live to be 85 years or older, you need to carefully manage your chronic health conditions and follow good health habits.

Aging experts such as Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School, explains, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet and also make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.” She adds that it is helpful to include a geriatrician on your health care team.

Furthermore, it is never too late to begin improving your health. Whether you are suffering from diabetes, heart disease, or many other chronic health problems, doctors say you can benefit from even a moderate amount of physical activity. Engaging in physical activity helps to make your bones and muscles stronger and can lessen your risk for falls. Also if you do have a fall, your bones will be stronger and less likely to break. Additionally, research shows that physical activity is as good for your brain as it is for your body, but before you embark on any new physical activity, please talk to your physician.

The FamilyDoctor.org website suggests that walking may be the easiest exercise for seniors as you can start at your own pace and you do not need any special equipment. They also recommend gardening, dancing, swimming, Tai chi or yoga as good exercises for seniors.

One of the many benefits of living at MorningStar at Golden Ridge is that we make it easy for seniors to live a healthy lifestyle. Our meals are both tasty as well as healthy and we offer lots of fun physical activities to keep our residents moving. Please see our website to learn more about our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care community.

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

Sources: everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/

familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html