Assisted Living is Often Healthier Than Living Alone

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities.  This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into an assisted living facility.  However when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to look into alternatives.  

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone.  They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others.  In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs.  Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar of Beaverton provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections.

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parent will have their basic needs met seamlessly.  Lastly, something often overlooked regarding assisted living is that with the proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back.  Also by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers. 

MorningStar of Beaverton offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Options include 66 assisted living private suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one and two-bedroom floor plans.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, devoted to caring for seniors suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we have 38 secure suites. Please see our website for more information including our new protocols in the fight against COVID-19.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us learn more about our exceptional assisted living facility.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s Approach to Healthy Aging

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton, we provide our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Our gorgeous residential home offers resort-style amenities, a wide range of care services and enrichment programs to enhance residents’ health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.   

Headed up by an enthusiastic Life Enrichment Team, each day MorningStar presents creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory. Our activities will engage residents physically, mentally, spiritually and socially and help them to tap into their unique talents and experiences. 

We also take to the road with outings and field trips to local parks, museums, shopping, and other areas of interest.  To get an idea of some of the activities we offer, please visit our website and look at “Life Around our House”, and “More Scenes of Elevated, Celebrated Life.” Pictures often include holiday celebrations or special events such as fundraising activities.  MorningStar of Beaverton never misses an opportunity to have fun! 

MorningStar of Beaverton’s amenities include sunrooms as well as an in-house salon for hair-styling, manicures and pedicures, a fitness room, art studio and much more.  We also have a Bistro, and along with our beautiful restaurant-style dining in our main dining room, we offer residents a private dining area for intimate dinners with family and friends. 

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for updates on the changes we have made to help keep our community safe during this hard time.   

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  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 our exceptional community.

Dealing with a Diagnosis of Dementia

Last year alone, approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia such as frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body disease and others.  Moreover, even though many families had come to suspect a problem and may not be all that surprised to hear the diagnosis, it is still a devastating blow.    

However please remember if you or a family member is experiencing confusion and/or memory loss that there are other factors that can masquerade as dementia.  For example, lack of sleep and/or depression and anxiety can result in feelings of confusion.  Also certain medications and medical conditions can have side effects that mimic some of the symptoms of dementia. 

The U.S. News & World Report cautions families that if a loved one is not as sharp as they used to be to make sure that they are protected against scams from unscrupulous people.  You may want to have a family member, trusted friend, or a professional financial advisor help to oversee the person’s finances. 

Another thing you can do to help yourself and your family feel more prepared for what the future holds is to investigate the extent of your community’s resources.  This may include looking into options for in-home care as well as senior living communities that specialize in memory care. 

Experts say one of the most important things to avoid doing after getting a diagnosis of dementia is to assume your life is over.  They stress you need to find reasons for hope and to think about ways to bring joy into your life.  Tia Powell, M.D. writes that “music is one wonderful avenue for delight. Your brain's capacity for music is unusually sturdy; the ability to sing, play and enjoy music often outlasts many other skills.”

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we provide area seniors with compassionate and loving assisted living as well as specialized, individualized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  As dementia care experts, each day our energies are put toward continuing to find ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Please contact us with questions. 

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  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 our exceptional community.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/questions-to-ask-when-youre-diagnosed-with-dementia

Join Our Team and Help Serve Our Cherished Seniors

While the country is staying home to help flatten the curve of the coronavirus outbreak, many of us still wish to do something to help.  For some of us, it may be best to just donate money to groups providing assistance to our medical workers or food and shelter to those in need, if/or when we can.  Then there are others who are ready to take a more actively role in helping to make another person’s life better.

If you are in the latter group and would love a job that not only lets you earn a living, but at the same time, help to improve the quality of life for a senior, we invite you to consider one of MorningStar’s available assisted living jobs in and around the Phoenix area.  Our communities include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  

If you are new to assisted living, we want you to know it can be a very rewarding experience.  Caring for our older generation it a great way to repay them for all they did for us when we were little.  You will get to know our remarkable residents’ life stories as well as have the opportunity to turn one of their bad days into a better one.  In addition you will have the opportunity to work with fellow team members who are the kind of people who also love to help others.   

Visit our website for more information regarding rewarding career opportunities including housekeeping jobs, dining room servers, care managers and more at our Phoenix communities.   During the coronavirus outbreak, we want you to know that we are safely hiring Great Hearts and taking every precaution to keep you safe at work.   All team members receive training on infection control with a heightened insistence on hand sanitation along with a thorough review of the latest CDC information on COVID-19 and the unique attributes of this viral strain.  Apply online or give us a call.  

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.

Renew Your Body with a Good Night’s Sleep

Due to much research on the subject, we now know it is not only important to get a good night’s sleep but it is essential to our overall good health and wellbeing.  Sleeping balances our active life with the time our body needs to renew and rejuvenate. However unfortunately with age comes a variety of health conditions that can interfere with getting a good night’s sleep. 

Experts explain that the elderly are more likely to “suffer from chronic insomnia characterized by difficulty maintaining sleep than difficulty initiating sleep.”  Suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and sleep apnea are more frequently seen in older adults and can result in poor sleep patterns.  We also know that bright sunlight helps to regulate melatonin (a hormone that promotes sleep) and sleep-wake cycles, and many elderly people do not spend enough time out-of-doors. 

Not getting an adequate amount of sleep each night can impact vitality and resilience that seniors need to age better.  In fact insomnia is associated with poor health and mortality.  Lack of sleep can also increase older adults’ risk of a fall, and some studies suggest a history of sleep deprivation can increase the risk of cognitive problems.  Routinely napping during the day is another problem that interferes with a good night’s sleep. 

Tips for getting a better night’s sleep include avoiding eating and working late.  Experts say to turn off the TV and other smart devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime as the blue light emitted from electronics prevents the body from releasing melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep.  Follow a set bedtime, and right before you plan to go to sleep do some deep breathing and light stretching.  It is recommended we try to get eight to nine hours of sleep on most nights.   

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge, we have a choice of independent living, assisted living and memory care options.  Our spacious, private Casitas and suites are available in a variety of well-designed floor plans and have details reflective of those found throughout our beautifully appointed community.  Conveniently located in Peoria, AZ, our residents enjoy a wide assortment of resort-style amenities, enrichment programs and activities.  Please visit our website for more information.

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.

Source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2516307/

What do People Who Live the Longest Have in Common?

Over the last couple of decades, researchers have become interested in why people in certain areas across the globe have a longer lifespan.  While America’s current average age expectancy is 78 years old, it is much higher in many other places in the world.  Areas such as Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Icaria, Greece count many more centenarians among their population.  These regions are known as “Blue Zones,” and the individuals living well into their 90s and more are typically healthy in both mind and body. 

National Geographic writer, Dan Buettner, spend years studying each culture, and wrote a book about his findings called, The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.  In his book, he cites 9 lifestyle habits that all of the groups had in common.

One of the habits he mentions is that the very elderly in these areas continue to move naturally as part of their everyday life and some still work in the fields.  Conversely in our country, many people lead sedentary lifestyles and find it difficult to get enough exercise.  John Day, MD, author of The Longevity Plan, suggests ways to remedy the problem.  He writes, “For example you could take a vow to never use an elevator or escalator again unless the stairs are restricted. Other options include an evening walk or doing everything possible to avoid having to use a car. Even vacations can be scheduled in a way that is physically active, like a vacation centered around skiing, hiking, or cycling.”

Another common trait shared by many of the elderly in the Blue Zones is that they still had a purpose in life.  Many studies support that by reporting the connection between our minds, our health, and our sense of purpose is very powerful and leads to better health outcomes.  Simply said you need to have a reason to get out of bed each morning. 

It is also recommended that we eat until we are only 80 percent full and stick to a “plant-forward diet.”  Along with eating lots of vegetables and whole grains, cut back or eliminate sugar-filled or processed foods from your diet.  Other suggestions for longevity include maintaining strong family ties, having a sense of community and a good social life.   

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our goal is to give seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and community.  Our residents receive nutritional, tasty meals and have access to wellness programs and activities along with a wide range of care services.  Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional senior living 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 senior living in Beaverton, OR.

Source: wellandgood.com/good-advice/blue-zone-power-9/

Discover MorningStar at Golden Ridge

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our whole team is committed to being one of the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care communities in Peoria, AZ and to live up to our unique mission statements as follows:

·         Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics

·         Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence

·         Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents    

MorningStar Senior Living’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, began the company out of his desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He said his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Sixteen years later, MorningStar has continued to grow and prosper with over 30 communities in 10 states open or under construction.

Our team is made up of a group of individuals who do the right thing even when no one is watching and feel privileged to serve seniors.  Our compassionate community is filled with love and laughter as we aspire to and nurture our core value of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  These are the ways by which we want to offer care and build Family for Life.

We are sure that once you learn more about our community you will agree with us that MorningStar is a great place to call home.  Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself our loving, home-like 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 senior living in Peoria AZ.

Keep in Touch During the Coronavirus Epidemic

If you have elderly loved ones who are living alone or in an assisted living facility that has halted visits, the AARP offers several things you can do to help them stay socially connected and avoid feeling isolated.  Remember one of the most important things we can do is to let them know they are loved and missed. 

The easiest way you can do this is through frequent phone calls, but also don’t forget other ways of communicating such as sending a letter or greeting card through the snail mail reminding them you are thinking of them.  Include the kids by having them draw a picture for grandma or grandpa or if they are old enough, have them also write a letter. 

It definitely makes it more personal to stay in touch if your parent has a computer or a smart device that lets you facetime or skype on a regular basis and the AAPR has some ideas of how to use video-calling to keep it fun.  One suggestion if your kids are young is to arrange to have grandma or grandpa read books to them over a video-call (if they do not have suitable books, go online and send them some).  Or if your child is learning to read, have them read to their grandparents. 

Another thing you can do is schedule a meal to be delivered to them from a local carry out place or from a service such as Grubhub, and settle down and enjoy sharing a meal with them while video chatting.  In addition, conversation starters can include watching the same movie or documentary and then spend time talking about it, or setting up a game or chessboard and playing the game together over the phone. 

The MorningStar of Beaverton assisted living and memory care community offers trusted senior living our families depend on.  Our comprehensive, compassionate care includes services and programming that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit.  Please visit our website for availability and pricing or give us a call with any questions.  We offer families peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving the very best care. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us learn more about our exceptional assisted living facility.

Source:

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/boost-morale-during-coronavirus.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R4-POS2-REALPOSS-TODAY

Looking for Assisted Living in Peoria?

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities.  This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into an assisted living community.  However when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to look into alternatives.  

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone.  They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others.  In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs.  Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections.

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parent will have their basic needs met seamlessly.  Lastly something often overlooked regarding assisted living is that with the proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back.  Also by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers. 

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers 65 assisted living private suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, we have 38 Casitas with attached garages for carefree independent living.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, devoted to caring for seniors suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we offer 35 secure suites. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is dedicated to providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Our spacious 8.8-acre senior living campus in Peoria, AZ is conveniently located at North 67th Avenue and West Golden Lane. Please visit our website to learn more.

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 provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Protect Your Aging Brain

Researchers says that even if we are not developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, as we grow older, our memory, decision-making, and ability to learn simply begin to wear down.   This process is referred to as “cognitive aging” and doctors now say there are evidence-based steps we can take to improve our cognitive functioning. 

The published study from the Institute of Medicine titled “Cognitive Aging: Progress in Understanding and Opportunities for Action,” detailed three ways we can protect and bolster our aging brain.  The study’s authors are Dr. Dan Blazer, chair of the report and professor emeritus of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center, and Dr. Valentin Fuster, director of Mount Sinai Heart and physician-in-chief at the Mount Sinai Hospital.  The report is intended to provide relevant information to both physicians and patients.

According to the study, the first thing we can do to help keep our brain healthy (and other parts of our body) is to engage in light exercise every day.  Activities such as walking, gardening, swimming or biking help increase the blood flow to the brain, which helps to maintain and improve its functioning. 

The Cognitive Aging report also found that in order to reduce our risk for or to better manage cardiovascular disease, we need to eliminate unhealthy habits such as smoking and maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure.  It recommends that if you do have high cholesterol, you follow your doctor’s instructions and continue to have the necessary blood tests done. 

The third key to improving and maintaining good cognitive functioning is to consult with your doctor to review the list of medications you are currently taking.  Dr. Blazer explains that, “Older adults are sometimes on more medications than they need to be on."  He adds, “Many, if not all of them, can potentially affect your cognitive functioning.”

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge, our goal is to provide residents with the services and amenities that allow them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. Our beautiful community offers 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 suites for assisted living and 35 secure suites devoted to the care of those with memory impairment.  All of our care services, wellness programs and amenities are designed to support the whole person: body, mind and spirit and make MorningStar the perfect place for successful aging.  

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 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 provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Communicating with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.   

Typically in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back. 

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition, you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions.  Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.      

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity. 

With 25+ communities in nine states, MorningStar Senior Living’s goal is to create communities that are a true “home” for our residents.  In addition to assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton’s Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate, loving memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Contact us for more information.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

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

Get Moving to Improve Your Health

At MorningStar of Arvada, we recognize that daily exercise is essential to the wellbeing of our residents.  Research backs up that claim as the National Institute of Health (NIA) explains that seniors who stay physically active and regularly exercise receive long-term health benefits.  They state that, “it can even improve the health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities.”

Taking part in physical activities such as walking your dog, using the stairs, or gardening as well as regular formal exercises such as weight training, tai chi, or aerobics classes are both beneficial to seniors.  Studies have found an increase in mental capacity and a slower mental decline in older adults who stay physically active as it can help to increase blood flow to all parts of the body including the brain. The NIA also states that exercise may delay or prevent diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer, and help to reduce death and hospitalization rates.     

In addition, physical activities and exercises may help to improve healing in seniors, provide better balance and reduce falls, and enhance their overall quality of life.  Furthermore, the research finds that it is never too late to start exercising to receive the benefits.   

Another thing to remember is that you do not need to have full mobility to start exercising as there are many exercises designed to overcome individual limitations.  Activities should include modified stretching exercises to increase flexibility, cardiovascular exercises to raise the heart rate and increase endurance, and weight training to build muscle and bone mass and improve balance.     

At MorningStar of Arvada, our residents have many opportunities to keep moving with basic fitness classes as well as chair yoga, strength training, sit and be fit, a health club, swimming and other special activities.  Our community offers 112 independent and assisted living suites that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, we offer 29 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for residents with dementia-related diseases.  Please see our website to learn more.

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

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health

helpguide.org/articles/exercise-fitness/chair-exercises-and-limited-mobility-fitness.htm 

Pets are Great Companions for Seniors

According to research, animals can help older adults lower their blood pressure as well as increase their social interactions and physical activity.  Studies have also found pets help seniors to cope with depression and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Pets such as dogs and cats are very loyal, loving animals and make great companions for seniors.

In the National Poll on Healthy Aging, sponsored by AARP and the University of Michigan, 2,051 seniors age 50 to 80 were interviewed.  Over half of the participants were pet owners, and of that group, more than 88% reported that pets added to their enjoyment of life.  Moreover 86% of them said their pets made them feel loved. The survey also reported that as many as 80% of the pet owners stated their pets helped them reduce stress.

Experts estimate that up to 40% of seniors feel lonely on a regular basis, which is problematic as loneliness is associated with poor sleep habits, higher stress and more inflammation.  In another study from 2012 by Pain Magazine, it was reported that “therapy dogs provided significant reduction in pain and emotional distress for chronic pain patients.”  The journal, Science, reports that just by looking into the eyes of their dog for at least 5 minutes, pet owners got a boost of the feel-good oxytocin hormone in their brain. 

Dr. Jay P. Granat, a New Jersey-based psychotherapist explains some of the benefits of pet ownership for the elderly, saying, “Dogs and cats live very much in the present; they don’t worry about tomorrow, which can be a very scary concept for an older person. An animal embodies that sense of here and now, and it tends to rub off on people.” 

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we provide a true “home” for our independent living, assisted living and memory care residents.  We also recognize the relationship that exists between a senior and their pet, which is why our community is pet friendly.  Please see our website for more information regarding our pet policy and to learn about our various amenities, services, and support we offer to our residents and their families.   

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 provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: agingcare.com

Socialization is an Important Component for Good Health

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we know that senior living offers many benefits including the often-overlooked benefit of socialization.  Senior living provides a natural, easy way to be around people that share your interests as well as encourages older adults to stay engaged in life.  In fact, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has substantial research that shows socialization is an important component to our good health.   

One thing the NIH studies consistently found is a “strong correlation between social interaction and health and well-being among older adults.”  Moreover they found that social isolation may have significant adverse effects for older adults.  They report that social relationships are strongly associated with biomarkers of health and that loneliness may have a physical as well as an emotional impact such as a higher risk for symptoms of depression.  

As MorningStar defines health and well-being holistically, we proudly offer services and programs that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit, and consider Wellness to be a joint effort between Life Enrichment and our Wellness Care Team.  In addition, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. 

Please visit MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community as well as our wellness programs and activities.  Our community has 38 Casitas for senior independent living, 65 suites for assisted living, and 35 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. 

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.

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

Planning a Visit to an Assisted Living Community

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living facility by letting them know they are very special to us.  To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit. 

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit.  Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game.  You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or to start a new one.  If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together.  If they love listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together.  If they love sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help them get them ready to mail.   If they love to be pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.   

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink.  Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home.   However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big.  Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community.  Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents but we know they always look forward to seeing their family.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community, our amenities and care services. 

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  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 schedule a visit to our exceptional assisted living facility.

Seniors are a Target of Fraudulent Schemes

According to the U.S. News & World Report, every year there are 5 million cases of elder fraud in the U.S., resulting in as much as $27.4 billion in losses.  Additionally, these crimes are often hard for law enforcement to prosecute because in many cases victims are too embarrassed to report the crimes.  The FBI says con artists also know that seniors do not make good witnesses even if they do report the crime due to the effects of age on their memory and the length of time it takes to bring a case to justice.   

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite, to believe people are basically good, and have a hard time saying “no.”  These are the traits con artists exploit.  Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger. 

A recent scheme that targeted a large group of seniors was a robocall that informed people they needed to return the call as there was a security issue with their social security number.  When the person called back, they were asked for their full name, address and S.S. number, and told their SS# had been comprised and they would be receiving a new one.   Authorities warn that if criminals obtain someone’s full name and SS#, it allows them to do all kinds of damage to the victim including trying to collect their benefits.    

Another scam is romance fraud, which involves a person being approached by the scammer through dating sites or other social media.  A relationship ensues through online contact but never face-to-face.  After a level of trust is established, the person is asked to send small amounts of money for alleged emergencies to test their willingness and gullibility.  Finally as the scam plays out, the person may give the con artist large amounts of money, or even be used to receive money or goods purchased with stolen credit cards or to transport drugs.       

The FBI warns that there are many fraudulent schemes to be aware of including telemarketing scams, Medicare scams, tax fraud, etc.  They say, “If you are age 60 or older—and especially if you are an older woman living alone—you may be a special target of people who sell bogus products and services by telephone.”  Remember to never give out personal or financial information over the phone or online and do not send money.    

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Beaverton.    

Sources: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/how-to-prevent-senior-fraud

fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-fraud-schemes/seniors

Giving Up the Keys – When Should Seniors Stop Driving?

From time to time, we hear news stories about elderly people causing serious car accidents due to negligence.  This typically reignites the on-going debate about “when is it time for a senior to stop driving?”  Also it is important to keep in mind that seniors are more likely to be injured in an accident as well as more likely to die from their injuries. 

Obviously being told you should no longer drive is a very sensitive topic for an elderly person still driving.  To them, it represents more than just getting from one place to another but their independence and a way of life.  So before you take away your elderly parent’s driving privileges, there are some things you can do to check that their driving is up to today’s road conditions. 

The first thing you can do is to get in the car and take a ride with them.  Experts say some driving issues signal serious problems while others less so.  For instance if your loved one is confusing the gas pedal with the brake, this is serious and requires immediate action.  Other things to look for are problems with left-hand turns, changing lanes, or driving either too fast or too slow.  Once you are out of the car, check for signs of new scrapes and dents. 

Many older adults realize their driving abilities are not what they used to be and make the decision on their own to stop driving at night or on freeways.  They also will not drive on icy and snowy roads or in the rain.  Some even make other adjustments such as not making left hand turns or avoiding busy roads with lots of lanes and traffic.  

One of the many advantages of senior living is that most communities offer services for transportation.  This ensures your loved one will get to their doctor appointments safely and any other errands they need to do.  If you would like to learn more about our loving assisted living community in Beaverton, OR, please contact MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton.  We welcome any questions and will be more than happy to speak with you and your family.

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the very best in assisted living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  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 schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

Work as a Housekeeper at One of Phoenix’s Finest Senior Living Communities

If you live in or around Phoenix, you most likely know there are lots of senior living communities throughout the area; but we want you to know you will not find a better one to work for than our MorningStar homes.  These include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar of Fountain Hills and MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  Each one is currently seeking individuals with big hearts who are drawn to the idea of working with seniors.  

As you learn about our history and founding principles, you will gain a better understanding of why our approach to senior housing is so unique.  Ken Jaeger, our Founder/CEO had specific ideas on how to foster the ultimate environment for both residents and team members, which starts with the guiding precepts found in our Mission statement.  It reads: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve. 

Yes, you read that right, MorningStar’s goal of building a distinguished team of service professionals is so important to us that it is included in our mission statement.  Investing in our team’s ability to succeed is not just nice words but something we put into action every day in our communities. This includes a hiring process that starts by seeking individuals with a felt calling to serve, and then providing them, regardless of their position, training in our signature customer service initiative we call Radiance, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place.  

Our open assisted living jobs at Phoenix’s premiere senior living communities include everything from housekeeping jobs, cooks, dining room servers, dishwashers to care managers, medication care managers and techs, nurses, directors and coordinators.  Positions are full and part-time as well as evening, night, and weekend shifts. Please visit our website for a chance to make a difference in the lives of our incredible residents.  

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 make a difference in the lives of our beloved seniors, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to open positions including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix.

Care Services at MorningStar of Beaverton

If you are looking at senior living communities the Beaverton, OR area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Beaverton. We provide area seniors compassionate assisted living and memory care with resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of care services to ensure their utmost comfort and wellbeing. 

At MorningStar we define health and well-being holistically and as such, offer programming that supports the whole person – body, mind and spirit, and are thus the perfect destination for successful aging.  Reflective of the full authority of our licensing with the Department of Health, our resident care services are broad and help extend the stay of residents even as their health conditions change.  In fact, we will routinely look for creative solutions (within our licensing mandate) that yield a higher quality of care for residents at a lower cost to their families. 

To improve care services, we proudly bring the MorningStar Electronic Health Record (EHR) system to our Beaverton community.  It provides us with a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).   The system benefits both our team and residents with quick access to accurate, legible, and complete demographic and medical information on residents.  It offers different modules to monitor various vitals and key health metrics as well as provides enhanced privacy and security of residents’ data. 

Our services include: 24-hour care managers, medication management by certified med care managers, licensed nurse—on call 24/7, care planning reviews and scheduled health & wellness evaluations.  We also offer mechanical lift assistance, weights and vitals monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services, and much more.  Please visit our website to see the full list of our care services and to read more about MorningStar of Beaverton.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Beaverton.    

Senior Living Defined by the Human Touch

Our beautiful Phoenix senior living communities are proud to be part of a parent company, MorningStar Senior Living, which was found on the premise of creating senior loving homes defined by touch.  From the start, our communities were designed to feel more like your grandma’s house than nursing homes of old. Thus we strive to create a culture defined not only by what we do but by the kind of people that bring it all to life – our dedicated team members.  

The MorningStar Company celebrated its 15th anniversary a couple of years ago, and now has senior living communities scattered throughout the Western US and several more in the process of being built.  Our tremendous growth and the trust we have earned in the communities in which we reside is due to staying true to our brand.   This includes the belief that MorningStar’s homes are radically relational places where seniors are viewed as heroes. 

The assisted living jobs at our Phoenix communities include roles that let you work closely with our residents such as our compassionate care managers who assist residents with their day-to-day personal care.  We also seek medication care managers and techs to help to see to it that residents safely get the medications they need. Another position includes dining room servers who help to give residents an upscale restaurant experience within a sociable and friendly environment.  Team members in all of our positions are encouraged to build relationships with our residents as well as their families and fellow team members. Moreover as you get to know our delightful residents, you will discover the things they are passionate about and have the opportunity to hear wonderful stories they are waiting to share.  

The Phoenix area MorningStar communities include MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Golden Ridge, and MorningStar of Fountain Hills.  Each home is committed to providing loving care to our residents who deserve to be treated as valued and contributing individuals. If you wish to be part of something extraordinary, please visit our website or give us a call to learn more about our beautiful homes.  

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 like to make a difference in a senior’s life? If so visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to fulfilling positions including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix.