Should You Purchase Long-term Care Insurance?

As we grow older, we start to think more and more about the “what if” this or that happens.  Many of us worry about getting a disease or disability that could make it difficult for us to care for ourselves, and many worry about having the financial means to get the long-term care we may eventually need.  

Financial advisors say one way to give ourselves peace of mind is to purchase Long-term Care insurance (LTC).  While a LTC policy can be expensive, experts say you need to remember that trying to pay for long-term care can jeopardize your financial wellbeing as well as that of your spouse, children and even grandchildren.  Many of us have worked our entire lives to provide our families with financial security and would hate the thought of them shouldering the economic and personal responsibilities related to our long-term care.   

The AARP says everyone should have a plan for long-term care, and as we are living longer than ever before, at some point we may need help with our day-to-day care.  As many LTC insurance policies cover some of the expenses your regular health insurance does not, it  is easier to “maintain your lifestyle if age, injury, illness, or a cognitive impairment makes it challenging for you to take care of yourself.”   Buying a LTC policy is also a good idea for those who do not have family members or others to care for them in the event of changing circumstances.   

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and security in the form of independent living, assisted living and memory care.  While we work hard to make our community affordable, we also help potential residents to find creative ways to help pay for senior living.  Long-term care insurance can help pay for senior care and protect personal assets by covering a variety of services in senior living communities that may not be covered through programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in the Phoenix area.   

Source: 

nylaarp.com/Landing-Pages/LongTermCare?tntph=PPCLTC9053&cid=3S2F8W&mkwid=sDd8LIo4Z-dc_pcrid_444684522465_pmt_p_pkw_is%20long%20term%20care%20insurance%20worth%20it_slid__product__pgrid_22132620486_ptaid_kwd-3326698011&gclid=CjwKCAjwi_b3BRAGEiwAemPNU2LAbRNZX2p8t382xQOR4FzsnwtAqXvwn117WxOU1Zt3_0Ofb7ENwRoC8KcQAvD_BwE

Independent Living Designed with Your Comfort in Mind!

Isn’t it about time you got a break from the never-ending chores and headaches of home ownership?  If you are like most homeowners, just about when you think you have fixed or replaced anything that can go wrong, something else breaks.  Also wouldn’t it be nice to no longer having to worry about lawn care, snow shoveling and raking all those leaves.  

Independent living at MorningStar of Arvada offers a break from all of that with beautiful, carefree living amidst a picturesque setting at the foothills of the Rockies in northwest Metro Denver.  Near the Arvada Reservoir and several regional parks, our community is conveniently located to shopping, entertainment and medical facilities.    

As an independent living resident, you will enjoy predictable budgeting as all utilities including cable TV and wired Internet are included in your monthly fee as well as two delicious daily meals (breakfast and lunch or dinner) to save you the hassle of cooking.  Housekeeping services are offered two times a month and each apartment is equipped with a stackable washer and dryer or a side-by-side for ADA compliance or where room permits.  Some of our IL suites have fireplaces and a balcony or patio.  Also we have plenty of surface parking and 16 private garages.  

Moreover our gorgeous contemporary design extends throughout our common areas into every suite. With features such as Granite countertops, Venetian gold 12 x 12 tile flooring, and high-end stainless steel appliances including a glass top stove, you will be proud to call MorningStar of Arvada home.  For your safety, IL suites have grab bars installed in the bathrooms.  In addition as a resident of the community you have access to all onsite amenities including pool, spa and health club.  

Along with independent living, MorningStar of Arvada also offer assisted living and memory care; and we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our community, our philosophy and our commitment to serving others.  As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, our mission statement includes honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well.  We look forward to hearing from you.    

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a 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 as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting.  Visit our website to take an online virtual tour, and contact us for more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care.    

Gift Ideas for Your Senior Loved One

If you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community and they are isolating themselves from the coronavirus, you probably would love to do something to brighten their day but just not sure how.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Are they a chocolate lover or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   A collection of classic movies is also something many seniors would enjoy.  

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large-print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

If you are looking for outstanding memory care or assisted living, Beaverton Oregon’s MorningStar of Beaverton may be the place for you.  Our beautiful community has 66 stylish assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, 38 secure suites are devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.           

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 memory care and assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers.

Get Screened for Depression During Your Initial AWV

Did you know that your parent or another elderly loved one can get screened for depression during their initial Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)?  Moreover every Medicare participant is eligible to receive an AWV 12 months after becoming eligible for Medicare.  

According to the Medicare Interactive website, the annual visit is not considered a physical examination but is intended to create or update a personalized prevention plan and to promote the use of evidence-based preventive services.  They explain the plan can help prevent illnesses based on your current health and risk factors.  Done with your primary care provider (PCP), you will have your lungs, heart, and other body systems checked as well as routine measurements taken such as height, weight, and blood pressure.  

Along with questions regarding your medical history and memory, your initial AWV also includes a screening for depression.  Most healthcare providers use a standardized questionnaire like the Geriatric Depression Scale, a short yes or no form that can help determine if you are suffering from depression.   The AARP Public Policy Institute found that “older adults who get a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit are more than four times as likely to be screened for depression as those who opt out of this free, preventive health benefit.”  This is important as it is estimated that nearly 7 million older Americans suffer from depression, which often goes unrecognized.  It can be a debilitating disorder and is commonly associated with chronic health conditions like heart disease and arthritis.   

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we have 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 suites for assisted living, and 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our community is designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.  We invite you to visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about the most trusted independent living & assisted living in the greater Phoenix area.   

Source:  aarp.org/depression-screening-in-older-adults

Specialized Memory Care at MorningStar of Beaverton

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers individualized, specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood is clustered in a separate area of our assisted living facility and is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease.  The expansive area houses 38 secure suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings.  

Normally, mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. During the coronavirus outbreak, however, memory care residents still take meals in the dining room with tables spread out for social distancing.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

As dementia care specialists, we focus on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.  In order to create an effective individualized care plan to guide our daily interactions and communication techniques, we meet with the senior and their family to learn as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and preferences even before they join our community.  Our specialized care incorporates music, art, dance, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents while taking into account the uniqueness of each person.   

Another thing that makes MorningStar of Beaverton a special place for memory care is our loving, compassionate team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Please visit our website for more information.

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 discover why we are a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

What is the Difference between Assisted Living & Independent Living?

Have you been thinking it’s time for a change in your living arrangements and would love a more manageable, relaxed lifestyle?  If you have started looking into senior living options in the greater Phoenix area your next question may be “what is the difference between assisted living and independent living, and which one is best suited to my needs?”    

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is located in the charming community of Peoria, which was ranked as the best place to live in Arizona by Money Magazine. PEORIA, Ariz. (KSAZ) in 2018.  Points were given for: quality of life, low crime rate, booming job growth and cost of living; and means Peoria is a great place for retirees and our senior living community a great place to call home.  

To meet the needs of our residents, we offer a variety of living options including independent living, assisted living and memory care.  In addition Concierge Living lets you add in a whole range of auxiliary services such as dog walking and mobile dog grooming, private dining room options, extra housekeeping, and more.  

So what separates assisted living from independent living?  Well, independent living is for active seniors who love the sound of leaving behind the never-ending upkeep of home ownership and would like a more carefree retirement.  It is also ideal for those who love the sound of predictable budgeting, community living and built-in companionship.  

Assisted living is designed for seniors who need a little help with everyday activities in order to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.  Each resident in assisted living is assessed for the level of care they need and provided with an individualized care plan.  Also if you moved into one of our independent living Casitas and found yourself in a position that you needed more care, your request for assisted living would be prioritized.  

On our gorgeous campus, we have 38 Casitas (quadruplexes with attached garages) for independent living; and a main building offering another 65 suites for assisted living with one and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections’ wing provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We are confident in our Covid-19 protocols for keeping all those beneath our roof safe and invite you to visit our website for availability and pricing.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Offering exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.  

Are You Getting All the Nutrients You Need?

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult.  This is why the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is important, and even today, many seniors have an “inadequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, folic acid, calcium, and niacin.”   

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier.  They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road.  Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy.  It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados. 

Along with all of the other amenities and care services we provide, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients.  We get much of our produce from home-grown or local high-quality producers.  

Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch, and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions.  We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage.  MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.  

MorningStar of Beaverton is still accepting assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time of the coronavirus outbreak, confident in our protective protocols.  Please visit our website to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Beaverton Oregon has to offer.  While you are there, be sure to read the COVID-19 statement from MorningStar’s CEO detailing our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to keep our communities safe.

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 memory care and assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/seniors-nutritional-needs/

Take a Virtual Tour of MorningStar of Beaverton

If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Beaverton Oregon’s MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer.  We want you to know that we are accepting new residents, and that we have every confidence in the safety protocols we are taking in our aggressive defense against the coronavirus (COVID-19).  

During normal times, interested seniors and their families are encouraged to set up in-person tours of our beautiful home.  However, as we have temporarily suspended all non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our community for the safety of our residents and team members during the coronavirus outbreak, we invite you to visit our website and take a virtual tour. 

Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including dining rooms, fitness room, theater, salon and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We think it is important for families to know that we have been very deliberate in putting into place a coordinated defense of every aspect of our operations and have built layer upon layer of protocols as information evolves.  MorningStar is following closely—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American Senior Housing Association and Federal government to ensure the health and well-being of both residents and team members.

To give you comfort regarding our care during these unusual times, we would like to share just one of the letters MorningStar has received from our families.  They write, “Although, it is difficult not being able to visit our loved ones, I am so grateful for the proactive stand you are taking. Our parents could not be in a better place.”  

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 memory care and assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers.

Experts Offer Some Strategies for Managing Pain

Unfortunately some of us are living with chronic pain caused by a variety of ailments, diseases, or injuries.  While it can make getting through the day a struggle, experts stress that it doesn’t mean it has to be an inescapable spiral toward depression and unhappiness as there are things a person can do to help manage the pain.  

One of those suggestions is to learn one of the many relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, meditation or mindfulness.  Massage therapy, yoga, biofeedback, and music or art therapy have also been found to be beneficial.  If you practice one or more of these relaxation techniques, you will reduce stress and help to center yourself in a calmer, more balanced place.   

Another way to manage pain is through exercise.  However the Mayo Clinic advises anyone 40 or over who has not been physically active to consult with their health care provider before beginning.  In addition they caution that “if you have pain from an injury, recent surgery, a physical disability or a chronic condition such as osteoporosis, it's best to work with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist to be sure you can exercise safely and avoid hurting yourself.”

They also say it is important to get enough sleep.  If you are a restless sleeper and have difficulty sleeping through the night, you should talk to your doctor about your pain management medications.  If a medication is a stimulant, ask your doctor about taking it early enough so as to not interfere with your sleep, and if it causes drowsiness, see if you can take it right before bed.  Try using relaxation techniques right before bed and get into the habit of a regular bedtime.   

Also avoid napping longer than 30 minutes during the day and do not eat a heavy meal too close to bedtime.  Doctors caution against drinking too much alcohol as it can cause sleep problems.  Yet another suggestion helpful to many people suffering from pain is to join a support group.  This puts you in touch with others who understand what you are going through.  However, if you feel you need more personal support, ask your doctor to recommend a mental health professional.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area.   

Source: mayoclinic.org/lifestyle-strategies-for-pain-management/art-20367321

Feeling Unfulfilled at Your Current Job?

If you live in the greater Phoenix area and are feeling unfulfilled at your current job, we encourage you to consider one of the positions available at MorningStar Senior Living communities.  Openings include Care Manager, Community Relations Associate, Dining Room Server, Housekeeping jobs and more.

When it comes to hiring a team member, we first look for people who exhibit character, kindness and selflessness as we understand these virtues are as important as education and experience in building a team of distinction. Our employees are the type of people who have perfected the art of anticipating needs and willingly go the extra mile to serve those needs.  As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to connect and bond with residents as you work to keep our award-winning communities running smoothly.    

Recognizing our employees are the very heartbeat of MorningStar communities, we are committed to investing generously in their ability to serve well as we seek individuals with creative minds and compassionate hearts.  Regardless of your position, you will receive the training you need to enable you to deliver the service excellence our residents deserve.  We are an equal opportunity employer and are proud to have a culturally diverse workforce.   Furthermore, we want to reassure you that during the COVID-19 outbreak, we are safely hiring, and taking every precaution to keep our team safe at work.            

If you feel it is a privilege to serve seniors, our Phoenix area communities look forward to meeting you.  Please visit our MorningStar Senior Living’s Career page and follow the link to “Assisted Living Jobs Phoenix” for the full list of job openings as well as qualifications and duties.  We invite you to be part of a Bigger Story and a Greater Purpose at MorningStar.  

At MorningStar’s Arcadia, Arrowhead, Golden Ridge & Fountain Hills 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 would love to thrive professionally and personally, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to rewarding assisted living jobs in Phoenix.

A Positive Attitude Could Help You Live Longer

According to the Mayo Clinic, positive thinking may provide several benefits including a longer life span.   They base this on lots of studies done regarding the effects of positive thinking and optimism as related to our health.  While researchers are not sure why individuals who routinely take the glass half full approach to life experience measureable benefits, some think it could be that positive thinking helps us better handle stressful situations and we know that stress can have harmful effects on our bodies.   

In fact the Mayo Clinic reports positive thinkers may not only increase their life span but lower their risk for depression and level of distress, and even have a greater resistance to the common cold.  Positive thinkers also typically enjoy better psychological and physical well-being as well as better cardiovascular health and a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease.  Maintaining a positive attitude during times of stress and hardships helps us to weather the storm easier.  

Experts recommend analyzing your behavior to determine if you are routinely a positive or negative thinker.  Common habits of negative thinkers include: personalizing everything that happens as if it is because of something you did wrong; catastrophizing is another common trait of negativity in which you automatically think the worst; and polarizing, which is where you only see things as either good or bad.   

If you recognize yourself as a negative thinker and would like to turn your life around and live more on the sunny side, start by identifying things about yourself you would like to change.  Think about positive ways to turn around negative thoughts, and make time to see the humor in everyday happenings.  Finally adopt a healthy lifestyle and surround yourself with positive people.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge has 38 beautiful Casitas for independent living, 65 assisted living suites, and 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Currently we are accepting new residents and invite you to visit our website to learn more about all we are doing to ensure your comfort and safety.     

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria.   

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/positive-thinking/art-20043950

MorningStar of Beaverton is Staying Strong

Despite the coronavirus outbreak throughout the country and the world, MorningStar of Beaverton residents and team members are staying strong. While we have temporarily closed our assisted living facility to all non-essential visitors and vendors for the safety of all inside our home, we are cheered by the incredibly encouraging support from residents’ families and our surrounding community.  Each homemade poster held up to the window, every thoughtful email sent in the wee hours, and calls of faith and courage do much to sustain us in the fight against COVID-19 and help keep up the spirits of residents and team members alike.

We have no higher responsibility than that of the Safety and Security of our residents, families and team members, and have implemented protocols and procedures following guidelines –and in some cases exceeding them- from the CDC, American Senior Housing Association and Federal government.  This includes checking staff temperatures at the start and the close of their shift, having unwell team members stay home, and conducting mandatory training for all team members on infection control with a heightened emphasis on hand sanitation.  

In terms of community cleaning, we have ordered extra inventory of disinfectant and related cleaning supplies.  In addition, for the time being, we have eliminated communal dining and assisted living residents receive meals in their suite (there are a few exceptions) and memory care residents eat as usual but spaced apart from one another.  

The MorningStar of Beaverton team understands the worry of our residents and their families, which is why we send regular updates whenever new developments or protocols dictate.  Currently we are safely accepting new residents and are confident in our COVID-19 protocols to keep all those beneath our roof safe.  Our community offers 66 suites for assisted living and 38 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  

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 discover why we are a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

How MorningStar of Beaverton Cares for Seniors

MorningStar of Beaverton, an assisted living facility in the Portland, Oregon metro area, is honored to serve seniors and to help make their lives a little easier.  The way we deliver our exceptional service is through our Radiance program, which is taught to all new team members and reiterated every day at our daily Huddle.  

Much more than just a customer service program, Radiance embodies the guiding principles for how we dispense our services – with depth of purpose and warmth.  The program emanates from an authentic, sincere place and celebrates an attitude of selflessness that resembles a beam of light.

We use the program to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.  It distinguishes our compassion and care as well as our service professionalism and provides residents the respect and dignity they deserve.  As Courtney Sonnier, Director of Community Relations so eloquently stated, “What attracts me most to MorningStar is teamwork. There is no “that’s not my job” attitude. Knowing you have a strong supportive group of people makes all the difference.”

Along with our wonderful care team, every aspect of MorningStar of Beaverton is designed to best serve our residents’ needs.  We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our comfortable, loving community.  When you are there, take a look at our photo gallery, amenities, and our well-designed floorplans.  We offer 66 suites for assisted living and 38 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care for residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

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 still accepting new residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.  

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 discover why we are a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

Assisted Living that Starts with Heart!

While we know the greater Phoenix area has a plethora of senior living options, we would like to introduce you to the best of the best!  MorningStar at Golden Ridge starts by offering independent living in the form of Casitas with attached garages for active seniors who love the sound of maintenance-free living.  For seniors who wish to maintain their independent but require a little assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features.  Our community also provides for those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia with programming and activities, and even meals designed for their specific needs.   

In assisted living, we offers various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte.  However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure your safety as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.    

Why we believe our assisted living to be different from that of other communities is by the type of individuals who make up our team.  When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are more important that education or experience.  Moreover many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness! 

Situated on a beautiful 8.8 acre campus, MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s main building offers 65 assisted living suites and another 35 secure suites devoted to memory care.  Our 38 Casitas are tucked into their own private neighborhood.   Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus.  Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.    

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.  

MorningStar's "The Unforgettable Series" is Back

MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community wants families in Peoria and the surrounding area to be encouraged, and to be empowered as they deal with the challenging journey of dementia.  We know that in spite of everything else that is going on in these unprecedented times  that many families are struggling with their own personal stories of having and perhaps caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  

One way we feel we can help is by bringing back The Unforgettable Series – Navigating the Journey of Dementia.  For the safety of all involved, we will be hosting the event via a Zoom Video Chat, and just ask that all interested parties pre-register if they wish to attend.  The Video Conferences dementia education will take place over the course of three engaging sessions and be led by MorningStar experts.  

The first in the series is:  Communications 101 – The Art of Communication Under a Lavender Sky.  This will meet on Tuesday, June 16 from 6:30 -7:00 PM.  The next in the series is: Taking Care of the Caregiver and will be held on Tuesday, June 23 from 6:30 - 7:00 PM.  Our finally video chat is called: Expressions and will take place on Tuesday, June 30 also from 6:30 – 7:00 PM.  Again you must register in order to join the group.  Information regarding registration is on the MorningStar at Golden Ridge website.

Our beautiful, vibrant community is situated on 8.8 acres and offers seniors a welcoming, comfortable home for carefree retirement years.  In addition to independent living and assisted living, we also provide compassionate, holistic memory care for our most tender residents.  Currently our community is safely accepting new residents and we are doing the utmost to ensure the safety of all those beneath our roof.   Please visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted independent living & assisted living.  

The Fun & Caring Hasn't Stopped at Our Beautiful Community

While MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community has made some changes in the way we live over the last few months in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak, we do not want you to think it is all doomed and gloom.  In fact our community is way too vibrant to be down and out.  Celebrating holidays and special events have always been a big part of our community life and now we just do it safely.  Our remarkable residents are resilient and determined to make sure each and every day counts.

To see some pictures of the fun going on, please visit our facebook page.  In the meantime read about some of our recent celebrations.  To celebrate Memorial Day, we posted: “Home of the free because of the brave. Family window visits were a highlight for us this Memorial Day weekend... complete with banana splits!”  Moreover we did not let Mother’s Day go by unnoticed.  We made sure all of our “moms” felt loved and honored.  Our post from that day read: “Our Mother’s Day Celebration is in full swing!  Motherhood is a million little moments that God weaves together with grace, redemption, laughter, tears, and most of all, love."

We even pulled off a vintage car show right in our own backyard!  The day was beautiful day and it was a great way to walk down memory lane. Nor did we overlook May 5th as we did Cinco de Mayo proud with a fun fiesta complete with margaritas, chips and salsa, and churros!  Nor do we intend to stop the fun anytime soon!

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we feel called to serve seniors and have assembled a dedicated team of individuals who agree with us that senior deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.  We currently have opening and are carefully following stringent protocols to safely accept new residents as well as to keep all who reside under our roof safe.  Our community provides independent living, assisted living and memory care.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in the Phoenix area.   

Thoughtful Tips for Communicating with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

If you have a family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you probably have felt at times like you were not getting through to them.  While communicating with someone suffering from Alzheimer’s is not always easy, we have a few tips to help make it more effective.  

Colleen Kavanaugh, a Certified Dementia Practitioner & Certified Dementia Communications Specialist, offers “a few tricks to have up your sleeve” that may help lessen irritation and calm and soothe more quickly.  For instance, if you want to get the person dressed, Kavanaugh suggests you take a few moments to connect with the person.  Get down to eye level so they can look directly into your face, speak slowly and ask a simple question such as “how is your day?”  Once you have their attention, let them know the tasks at hand.

Another thing to remember is to keep your instructions simple.  Ask if they would like to do a particular task such as brushing their hair; and then put the brush in their hand and using your hand, guide the first couple of brush strokes.  Do the same thing with brushing their teeth, etc.  Make sure to talk soothingly and let them know how well they are doing.     

Strategies to try to calm the person when they are frustrated or angry include also getting down to their level, taking their hand and calmly letting them know you are there to help.  Give them time to respond but if they are unable to express themselves and you cannot determine what they need, slowly distract.  Show them pictures of family members or talk about things you are going to do together.  Above all avoid criticizing or arguing.   

At MorningStar of Arvada, we offer a safe and beautiful place to age in place with 112 bright independent and assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet).   In addition we have 29 secure memory care suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, which are staffed by a team of dementia care specialists who truly understand the disease.  Please visit our website to read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into our loving community.    

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a 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 as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting.  Please visit our website for an online virtual tour and a link for info on pricing and availability.  

Source: seniorlink.com/blog/communicating-with-dementia

Did You Get Enough Sleep Last Night?

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.   

MorningStar of Beaverton’s senior community includes 66 suites for assisted living and 38 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care for residents with memory impairment.  Our spacious suites are available in a variety of well-designed floor plans and have details reflective of those found throughout our beautifully appointed assisted living facility.    Please see our website for more information on our community as well as our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members.

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: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC25163

Affordable Independent Living with Style!

If you are a senior who is starting to feel overwhelmed by the care and upkeep of a home, it may be time to consider making a lifestyle change.  At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we think you will be pleased to discover that not only are you giving up a houseful of problems but you are gaining a beautiful, no-maintain home as well as a broader community of friends.  

Golden Ridge is located in Peoria near the Cardinal’s stadium and offers easy access to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation, which means your retirement can be as relaxed or as active as you like.  Our large campus includes a beautifully-designed building for assisted living and memory care residents; and for active senior looking for their next adventure, we have 38 independent living “Casitas” tucked into their own private neighborhood.  Casitas are situated as quadraplexes with attached garages and offer an incomparable value with predictable monthly budgeting as virtually all of your expenses including homeowner’s insurance and property taxes are controlled through our bundled Monthly Rental Fee. 

Casitas are leased on a month-to-month basis and all outdoor and indoor maintenance, repairs and replacement are handled by us as well other jobs such as pest control and trash removal.  In addition Monday through Friday, independent residents can enjoy a continental breakfast in our Clubhouse.  Also once they resume, residents can take part in our community activities, join us for sponsored outings, and have access to the many amenities within our main building, including: Library, Chapel and Wellness Programs.  

Along with our 38 Casitas for independent living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s main building offers another 65 suites for assisted living. The Reflections’ wing provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We are now accepting new residents and are confident in our Covid-19 protocols for keeping all those beneath our roof safe.  Also we are pet friendly.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Beaverton

MorningStar of Beaverton offers 66 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floor plans.  MorningStar provides various levels of assistance with daily living activities as determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with the senior and their extended family.  For the family, they rest easy knowing that a trained, caring staff is available to help whenever a loved one needs it.  

Our assisted living facility is committed to providing all of the amenities, programming and services to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.  Our wide scope of resident care helps to extend the stay of our residents even if their health changes and they require more care.   We have experience in finding creative solutions that yield a higher quality of care for our residents at a lower cost to their families.  

Moreover, we are pleased to give residents the benefit of our centralized, mobile Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  EHR helps to ensure quick access to health records and offers more coordinated, efficient care.  It is used for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care and more as well as to provide enhanced privacy and security of resident data.  

Our clinical services include a licensed nurse onsite and on call, 24-hour Care Managers, a CPR-trained staff member on every shift, and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  We also offer services such as mechanical lift assistance, weights and vital monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, and palliative/hospice care.  Residents are offered pharmacy services, transportation to medical appointments, scheduled physician visits, onsite dental and podiatry services and much more. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers 38 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.   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.