Affordable Independent Living for Carefree Retirement Years

September 25, 2020 by Karla A

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community is a beautiful, vibrant community situated on 8.8 acres and proudly offers Peoria area seniors a warm, welcoming home. Our community allows seniors to comfortably age in place with an array of resort-style amenities and a broad range of meaningful activities. Also residents know they are in a place where they can easily make new friends, learn new things or just have fun.

Our 38 Casitas, quadraplexes with attached garages, are designed for active seniors. Tucked into their own private neighborhood, our independent living Casitas allow you to enjoy your retirement as it was meant to be: stress free. Moreover you also get the security of knowing extra supportive care is right next door with our trusted assisted living and memory care if you ever need it.

Since the MorningStar at Golden Ridge campus is conveniently situated to provide residents easy access to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation, it means you can have a lifestyle as active or relaxed as you like. Residents at our Casitas also have access to community amenities including a saline swimming pool with hot tub, a full salon offering manicures and pedicures, a spa bath, fitness centers, library, and bistro (due to CPVOD, there may be some restricted access). For entertainment and socializing, residents enjoy expansive common spaces, theatre, and more.

In addition to independent living, our neighboring building offers 65 suites for assisted living that include studios; one-bedroom, one-bath; and two-bedroom and one-bath or one and half-bath floor plans. Our memory care wing has 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We are currently safely accepting new residents and invite you to visit our website to learn more about our community as well as pricing and availability.

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 unrivalled assisted living & independent living in Peoria, AZ.

Your Lifestyle Habits Can Help Reduce the Risk of Stroke

September 22, 2020 by Karla A

The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that every 40 seconds a person has a stroke and every four minutes someone dies from one. While that is alarming, the AHA says that almost 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.

Did you know that one of the leading causes of strokes is high blood pressure, also called hypertension, and is the most prevalent health condition facing Americans? Statistics show one in four US adults have hypertension, and as people age, their blood pressure goes up. Experts now believe as many as 80% of people 65 years and older have hypertension and should take steps to reduce it. If you fall into that age group or at risk for HBP, start by regularly monitoring your blood pressure. If high, work with your doctor to find ways to lower it including getting more exercise and eating a healthy diet.

Another way to help prevent strokes is to quit smoking. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream and forces the heart to work harder, which in turn, increases the likelihood of blood clots. Also if you are diabetic, you need to manage the disease. The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than someone without the disease.

Exercise is another way to lower your risk. Doctors say 30 minutes of moderate exercise fives a week, like a brisk walk, yoga or dancing are beneficial. Moreover if you are overweight, try to lose weight as obesity put you at risk for any number of health issues including stroke. And don’t forget to get your cholesterol checked. The AHA recommends everyone 20 years of age and over should have it done at least every 5 years. Check with your healthcare provider regarding other risks for stroke.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we approach senior living from all angles to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. We have 38 Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages) for independent living. Our main building is designed with 65 private suites for assisted living and another 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care for residents suffering with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 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 best independent living & assisted living.

Avoid Stocking Up on Products that Don’t Store Well

September 19, 2020 by Karla A

Right now many of us prefer to consolidate trips to the grocery store by stocking up on staples we know we will need at some point in the future. While buying in bulk may seem like a bargain, consumer experts caution you may not actually be saving money in the long-run. It turns out lots of foods and goods have a shorter shelf life than we think and many can degrade or lose their efficacy over time.

A prime example is stocking up on laundry detergent and other cleaning supplies we know we will need in the future. Here the problem lies in the fact that they may start to lose their cleansing and sanitizing power over time. Experts say liquid laundry detergent is most effective if used within 6 months of opening and up to a year from purchase. Chlorine products start losing their strength after about a year and other types of disinfecting wipes are generally good for about two years.

Sunscreen also has a short shelf life and outdated sunscreen (all should have an expiration date) may put us at risk for sunburns, sun damage and skin cancer. The FDA reports the same goes for trying to stock up on over-the-counter drugs, which can also lose some of their effectiveness and/or even cause unintended side effects.

Food staples such as flours, cooking oils and spices all have a shorter shelf life than many think. White flours typically are good for one year stored in a cool dry space or two years in the refrigerator. Whole wheat flours are at their best for three months in the pantry, and one year in the refrigerator. Olive and many vegetable oils are best three to five months after opening.

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, our assisted living and memory care residents do not need to worry about groceries as we gladly do the cooking! In our main building, we have 65 private suites for assisted living with one and two-bedroom floor plans; and a memory care wing for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We also have 38 Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages) for independent living. Please 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. We have a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. With exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we proudly offer unsurpassed independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Ask Your Doctor to be Screened for Cognitive Decline

September 15, 2020 by Karla A

Medical experts have found that many older adults are not being screened for cognitive decline during routine physical exams, and say it would be a good idea to do so. While many of us would be shocked to hear devastating news that we have early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, doctors say it is important to identify memory loss issues early as available treatments are more effective early-on. Moreover, if it is determined you do have some memory loss, there are steps you can take to help slow down or mitigate the risk.

Additionally, if you are wondering if a cognitive test is expensive, Medicare does pay for an annual “wellness visit,” which is supposed to include a quick cognitive assessment to help identify some early warning signs of dementia. From there your doctor can recommend a more thorough examination. However, according to a recent Alzheimer’s Association survey, over half of the respondents said their healthcare provider has never asked about their cognitive health, let alone administered a test. Less than a third said they had discussed memory and cognitive issues with a doctor. Joanne Pike, an Alzheimer’s Association chief program officer, says while, “Many older adults say they’ve noticed changes in their mental abilities, “the majority of the time seniors are waiting for the physician to bring it up.”

So what does a cognitive assessment include? To start with your doctor will ask you directly if you have noticed any changes in your memory recently. If you have a family member with you, the doctor may ask them if they noticed any problems. You may be asked to take a short test, but often the assessment includes the doctor asking questions regarding your activities, your interests and how well you are functioning at home. In fact, you may not even realize you are being cognitively assessed.

Along with independent living and assisted living, MorningStar of Arvada offers 29 secure suites for the care of residents with memory impairment from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a team of individuals who understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness. Please visit our website or contact us for more information.

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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO offers.

Learn More About MorningStar’s Community in Beaverton, Oregon

September 15, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar of Beaverton is designed to allow our residents to comfortably and safely age in place. By offering luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a broad range of care services, we support the whole person – mind body and spirit. Our holistic approach to successful senior living is accomplished through a balance of Life Enrichment and Wellness Care.

We consider it part of our job to find creative solutions that can extend the stay of our residents even when their health conditions change, and often are able to give them a quality of care at a lower cost to families. For assisted living residents, an individualized care plan is determined (based on five levels of care) after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the resident and their family.

Along with our in-house care services, which include around-the-clock care managers and access to a licensed nurse on-site/on-call 24/7; we also refer families to home health and out-patient therapy services. These are third-party providers we know and trust who bring additional services to our residents in the form of skilled medical professionals, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and others.

MorningStar of Beaverton has 66 bright suites for assisted living including a range of floor plans starting with spacious studio and one-bedroom units all the way to large two-bedroom floor plans. If a family member requires memory care, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 38 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. Please visit the photo gallery on our website to see why when we say MorningStar of Beaverton is more like a resort community than an assisted living facility, we are not exaggerating.

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.

Copy of MorningStar Assisted Living - Love Lives Here.jpg

In-Home Care or Assisted Living?

September 13, 2020 by Karla A

If you or a loved one is in need of daily care to ensure your safety and wellbeing, you may be weighing options such as in-home care services versus assisted living. Most experts suggest a good way to start is to make a list of all the areas in which you or your loved one needs assistance with on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

From a strictly affordable standpoint (we know there is much more to it), there is a rule of thumb to determine if in-home care or an assisted living community is less expensive. Does the person require more than 40 hours of paid care a week? If that’s the case, then assisted living is most likely less expensive.

Also, remember that in-home care is a piecemeal approach and each additional service you need adds to the cost of care. Moreover, in a senior community offering assisted living like MorningStar of Arvada, individuals receive 24/7 care from our compassionate, trained care managers in the activities of daily living (ADL). Another benefit of our community is it is designed to accommodate wheel chairs and other mobility aids as well as provides bathrooms equipped with handicap grab bars, and suites equipped with emergency call systems.

Many people get sticker shock when they learn how much they will pay for assisted living, but you need to remember that virtually all your living expenses including food as well as care services are factored in. No longer will you pay out-of-pocket for home insurance, property taxes, heat, electricity, trash pickup, cable, and Internet service. In addition, you will not be hit with unexpected repair bills and routine upkeep on your home.

Other services and amenities provided by MorningStar of Arvada include a fitness room, movie theatre, sports bar, art studio, rooftop terrace, enrichment activities, and more. Residents also enjoy three nutritious meals a day prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef. However, we consider our most important asset to be our dedicated team members and their devotion to our residents.

Please visit our website for more information about our wonderful independent living, assisted living and memory care community. While you are there you may read about all we are doing to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents during COVID-19.

MorningStar of Arvada Offers Independent Living for Carefree Retirement Years

September 10, 2020 by Karla A

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 of Arvada, 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-maintenance home as well as a broader community of friends.

Independent living provides seniors with a range of benefits including predictable monthly budgeting and tasty meals they no longer need to cook as well as built-in companionship. Once they fully resume, residents can take part in our community activities, join us for sponsored outings, and have full access to the many amenities our community offers. In addition, we take care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping, which allows our residents plenty of time to pursue their interests.

Our community offers well-designed private suites in a variety of floorplans including studios, one-bedroom and two-bedrooms (some over 1300 sq. ft.). Several of the plans have two bathrooms. Each unit has high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, ceiling lighting, and many feature balconies or patios. Suites have private heating & air conditioning controls and include basic cable TV and utilities. Also, we are happy to welcome your furry friend as we are pet friendly.

Along with independent living, MorningStar of Arvada offers suites for assisted living for those who need help with the activities of daily living. The Reflections Neighborhood provides an additional 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

If you are looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, Arvada CO’s MorningStar community may be the place for you. We are currently accepting new residents and are confident in our Covid-19 protocols for keeping all those beneath our roof safe. Please visit our website for more information including a virtual tour of our beautiful community.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Beaverton

September 10, 2020 by Karla A

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we not only provide some of the best assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers, but also experienced memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 38 secure memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.” By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.

All of our employees receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents. The eight hours of training includes the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they crossover the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.

Please visit our website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate memory care. We do not consider serving our memory care residents to be depressing but rather offer hope to families as we strive to find ways to elevate and celebrate each resident’s life. We look forward to meeting you.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Beaverton Oregon has to offer.

Do You Take the Glass Half-Full Approach to Life?

September 08, 2020 by Karla A

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 measurable 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.

For exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, Arvada CO area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Arvada. Our community was designed from the ground up to be a true home for our residents and offers all of the amenities and services needed for their comfort, wellbeing and safety. Please contact us for more information.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Arvada, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO offers.

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

Looking for Senior Living that has it All?

September 06, 2020 by Karla A

If you have been searching for a senior living community that fits all your specifications, we think you will agree the MorningStar of Arvada independent living and assisted living community is pretty darn close to perfect. Offering 112 bright suites, our apartments are available in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations of which some are as large as 1,374 sq. ft. In addition we have another 29 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

With all that is going on in the world right now, you may be hesitant to make a change in your living arrangements, but we want you to know that we are taking every precaution to ensure your safety while under our roof. We also believe that for many seniors living alone, that along with everything else MorningStar of Arvada offers, we also give seniors the security of knowing we are there for them. In fact our “family” includes residents, their families, and our dedicated team members.

Imagine no longer having to worry about getting to the doctors as we offer scheduled transportation for medical appointments and other errands. Think about the relief of no longer having to grocery shop let alone prepare and cook meals as we provide three daily meals that are not only delicious but nutritious. For our assisted living residents, we offer a broad range of care services including 24/7 care managers, access to a full-time licensed nurse, medication management and more. Our Wellness Programs & Activities are open all residents.

While some of Arvada’s common areas may be somewhat restricted due to COVID-19, they include: a swimming pool & hot tub, spa bath, health center, life enrichment room, game room, art studio, therapy room, massage room and large fitness room. We also offer a beautiful outdoor dining deck, rooftop terrace with grill and fire pit, club room and sports bar. Furthermore many of our suites offer a private patio or balcony in addition to private patios with direct access to the roof deck. For more, please visit our website and be sure to take a look at our Gallery page as well as our Home page’s Virtual Tour. Please email or give us a call to learn more.

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 and take an online virtual tour or contact us for pricing and availability at the most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO offers.

The Benefits of Long-term Care Insurance

September 05, 2020 by Karla A

As we grow older, we start to think more and more about “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.

If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Beaverton. 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. Please visit our website for more information.

Source: nylaarp.com/Landing-Pages/LongTermCare

Senior Living Defined by the Human Touch

September 01, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, first began forming the idea of starting a company from a desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch. He says his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” This simple but profound concept has driven the overwhelming success of our MorningStar brand. Now seventeen years later, MorningStar continues to add communities across the Western U.S., including MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton, in the Greater Portland area.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our goal is to create a true home for our residents - one that feels like a family. To help us achieve this, our dedicated team strives to live up to our unique mission statement, which includes honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships and valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals. The last part of our mission statement is to invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well, as we know our brand demands committed individuals who will use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve our residents.

We also aspire to and nurture our core values of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness to help us build our MorningStar family. As one resident described MorningStar: “I love living here.” She goes on to say “My husband recently passed and the extra love and care the entire staff showed me, and my family, was genuine and heartfelt. My neighbors, and all the staff, are part of my extended family now and it is good to have that kind of support group so close at hand. I recommend anyone looking to simplify their life and get pampered doing it, to come visit here. It is beautiful.”

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 still accepting residents into our assisted living facility during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. Please see our website for more information about our community and an update from the CEO detailing our coronavirus response.

Job Openings at the Phoenix Area’s Best Senior Living Communities

August 31, 2020 by Karla A

MorningStar Senior Living’s beautiful communities have various assisted living jobs in Phoenix and the surrounding area that will allow you to make a difference in the lives of our residents. Our Greater Phoenix homes include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar at Golden Ridge and MorningStar of Fountain Hills.

Morningstar offers some of the most generous benefits in the entire senior living industry. Our benefits start with competitive wages, plus bonus and incentive opportunities, and extend all the way through comprehensive insurance, training, and employee leave and support programs. No matter what our employee’s needs are, MorningStar has a benefit program designed to support our most valued asset – the MorningStar employee family!

We are a company that honors God in our business practices as well as in our relationships and are seeking like-minded individuals who have a felt calling to serve and view seniors as heroes. Our open positions are varied as are the required qualifications but most importantly we are looking for exceptional individuals. Some of our positions include Care Manager, Concierge, Dishwasher, Dining Room Server, Medication Care Manager/QMAP, Cook, Housekeeping jobs and more. As we are a 24/7 operation, shifts include days, evenings or nights as well as weekends and may be full or part-time.

One of our team members eloquently describes her experience working for MorningStar by stating the following: “When you’ve worked around the globe as I have, and come to a workplace that feels like home, where you are so welcomed, so cared for, so appreciated…it can take you by surprise. That’s what I found at MorningStar. Whether from staff or residents, the respect, trust and love shown to me is beyond anything I’ve ever experienced in my career.” If this experience sounds like something you desire, please visit our website to learn more about career opportunities at our Phoenix area communities as well as information on how to apply.

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.

Perform Hands-on CPR to the Beat of a Favorite Song

August 31, 2020 by Karla A

If you haven’t kept up with new guidelines regarding CPR, the American Heart Association (AHA) says the first step when someone has stopped breathing is to call 911 or have someone else call, and use simple, direct words such as "Heart stopped. I need help." Now begin chest compressions, which help to move the blood around the body. Several years ago, the AHA stopped recommending doing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation immediately as “in the seconds before a heart stops, the person takes a big deep breath and fills their lungs with air.”

Chest compressions on an adult or teen should be done by putting the heel of one hand on the breastbone of the chest and the other hand on top of it. Now start pressing down at least two full inches or more (not less) hard and fast, about 100 to 120 pushes per minutes.

Experts suggest several songs in a variety of genres to pace your compressions by. For county music fans, recommendations include Blake Shelton's "All about Tonight" or Johnny Cash’s "Ring of Fire." There are songs for fans of Lady Gaga like "Just Dance," Dianna Ross’ fans with “Ain't No Mountain High Enough," or "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees.

While anyone can do CPR, getting certified by an American Red Cross CPR class gives you the extra confidence to response quickly as well as information regarding rescue breathing. Once you complete the course, you are certified for two years but to keep yourself up-to-date, it is suggested you take a refresher course before your certificate expires.

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we offer independent living, assisted living and memory care. For assisted living and memory care residents, our 24/7 care managers are certified in both CPR and First Aid. In addition all team members, regardless of their role, complete three foundational one-day training sessions that include Radiance (our culture and customer service initiative); and Lavender Sky (our dementia care philosophy and approach to programming). We also provide continuing education through in-services and online video training. Our Med Techs (QMAPs) are also trained in medication administration. Visit our website to learn more about our loving community.

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 unsurpassed independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area.

Source: cnn.com/2020/03/09/health/cpr-living-to-100-wellness/index.html

Are You Eating Too Much Sugar?

August 28, 2020 by Karla A

We all may be eating and drinking foods we consider to be healthy but they may contain far more sugar than we think they do. It can even happen with foods we do not necessarily think of as sweet such as ketchup or barbeque sauce. Also making what we assume is the healthier choice like “low fat” or “light” yogurt may actually contain more sugar than the regular variety. Some low-fat yogurt has over 30 grams of sugar; and the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends men consume no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams or 150 calories) of added sugar per day. For women, the amount is just 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 100 calories) per day.

Another food we think of as healthy is granola. While it is true that the main ingredient is rolled oats, which provides protein, healthy fats and fiber, it also can be loaded with lots of sugar and calories. This is where label reading can help as the Washington Post did a story on granolas and found a single serving can range from one gram of sugar to 14 grams. Another thing to look for are the words “added sugar” as the sugar from dried fruit is not bad for us (more calories for those watching) as is corn syrup or cane sugar. However, do keep in mind that while honey, maple syrup, and coconut sugar may be healthier, they still add empty calories.

Drinks such as sugared ice teas and flavored coffees also add a lot of sugar to our diets as do some sport drinks and vitamin waters so be sure to read the label. If you want to avoid empty sugary drinks altogether, make flavored waters by adding fruit or vegetable slices. Toss in some lime and cucumber slices to your water or a handful of berries, orange slices, or mint leaves; use your imagination.

If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Beaverton Oregon’s Morningstar community may be your answer. Our delicious meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage. Please see our website for more information.

Common Misconceptions About Alzheimer’s Disease

August 27, 2020 by Karla A

There are many misconceptions about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. As traumatizing as it is for a family to learn a loved one has Alzheimer’s, it is also important to sort through the various truths and myths regarding the disease.

One mistake many people make when they or a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is to think their life is over. In reality, a person can live a productive life for many years. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important and should include a nutrient-rich diet and routine exercise. Experts also note it is important to stay socially connected and engage in activities that challenge the brain. As medication is more helpful in the earlier stages, getting a proper diagnosis is vital.

People also fear that if a parent had Alzheimer’s, they will get it. The facts are that “familiar Alzheimer’s disease accounts for less than 5% of all cases of Alzheimer’s disease.” Furthermore, remember Alzheimer’s is not only a disease of the elderly. While there are many fewer cases, it does occur in people as young as their 40s and 50s.

Another common myth is the belief that dental amalgam fillings containing a small amount of mercury caused the disease. Studies have shown no such correlation between the two. Others believe aluminum pans are responsible, and while a few studies suggest a small possibility, most experts think the link is questionable.

Some people think memory loss is a natural progression of aging, but the truth is while many of us experience some decline in memory, if the loss is disrupting your day-to-day life, you need to see a healthcare provider. Another thing to remember is a diagnosis of dementia is not necessarily better than being told a person has Alzheimer’s, it is just another form of the disease.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, an assisted living facility in the Portland, OR area, we provide compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We take a holistic approach to memory care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website for more information.

Sources: alz.org/news/2018/senate-takes-bold-steps-in-fight-against-alzheimer

alzheimer.ca/en/Home/About-dementia/Alzheimer-s-disease/Myth-and-reality-about-Alzheimer-s-disease

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Pets Help Reduce Stress and Lift Our Spirits

August 25, 2020 by Karla A

Research has shown that having a pet can improve our mental health, cardiovascular health and PTSD symptoms. In fact even if you do not own a pet but just spend some time interacting with animals, it can lift your spirits and decrease stress. Also during times of isolation and uncertainty, many of us feel our pets are more important than ever.

The great thing about pets is they offer unconditional love and loyal companionship. Caring for an animal can be a welcome distraction from life’s other worries and can provide more meaning to our life. Moreover how can you feel upset or angry when sitting with a cat on your lap and hearing the relaxing, melodious sound of their purr? Research has shown that an act as simple as petting a dog or cat has been shown to reduce stress and help regulate our mood.

Also many people believe their pet has the ability to pick up on their emotions and know when they are sad or stressed and need a little “extra love.” In addition dogs need exercise so many dog owners are motivated to get outside and exercise, which is always a good thing. However experts caution that before you rush out and adopt an animal that you think about how much time you have to care for one, and do you have the money to pay for the extra expenses. Also if your choice is a dog, are you physically able to provide the animal with the daily exercise they need?

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria, AZ, we understand how important our residents’ furry friends are to them, which is why we are pet friendly. Our gorgeous community has 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 assisted living suites, and another 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about all of our services and amenities including à la carte services for pet feeding, dog walking and pet grooming.

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.

Despite What is Going on Around Us, It is Important to have Your Eyes Examined

August 22, 2020 by Karla A

Ophthalmologists want to remind seniors to not neglect their eyes and to know that all is being done to keep them safe during routine eye exams. In fact several of the most common leading causes of blindness including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease are more effectively treated when discovered early.

Doctors explain that people often do not realize their eyes are weakening as the brain does a good job of compensating for a creeping loss of vision, and may be putting themselves at risk for future blindness. A dilated-eye exam can catch eye diseases early and may not only help save your vision but in some cases reverse damage.

Yvonne Ou, associate professor in ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco, says when glaucoma is caught early through a comprehensive eye exam, it is a very treatable disease and generally can prevent vision loss that affects quality of life. Doctors recommend getting tested every year at the age of 50 and older. Those with a family history of glaucoma may need to be tested more often.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease that causes damage to the macula, and as its name suggests, age is one of the biggest risk factors. There are two type of AMD, wet and dry, with dry AMD being the most common. Treatments for early-detected dry AMD involve lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and taking steps to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, and eating a healthy diet.

Another eye problem picked up with a dilated-eye exam includes diabetic retinopathy, which is “the top cause of blindness in working-age adults in the U.S., according to the CDC.” Cataracts are also a condition that is age-related but fortunately very treatable. When your doctor first sees signs of a cataract, experts say it may be 10 or 20 years before you will be bothered enough to do something about it.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our wide range of services are designed to make life easier for our residents including scheduled transportation so you never have to worry about getting to a doctor’s appointment or other important trips. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn about 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. 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 top independent living & assisted living in Peoria.

Source:

aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/eye-disease-blindness-risk.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R2-POS3-REALPOSS-TODAY

New Blood Test to Detect Alzheimer’s Disease Earlier & More Accurately

August 19, 2020 by Karla A

Many people think they rather not know if they will be afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease in the future. However medical experts say that not knowing causes a delay in available treatments that are most effective in the earliest stages of the disease or before the onset of symptoms begin. Moreover up until now most people had to wait months and sometimes up to a year or more to get a diagnosis; and even then, a true Alzheimer’s diagnosis wasn’t possible until brain tissue was examined during an autopsy. Instead doctors used a “series of cognitive tests, brain imaging scans, and bloodwork to help them rule out other conditions and make an educated guess.”

Now JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), published an extensive article at the end of July regarding a ground-breaking new blood test that was presented at this years Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2020. Researcher explain that the test identifies the protein ptau-2017, a biomarker for Alzheimer’s, and has had results that beat out several other biomarkers scientists have currently be testing for.

In fact Jessica Caldwell, PhD, the director of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement Prevention Center at the Cleveland Clinic in Las Vegas, says, “This test is predicting which people have Alzheimer’s dementia at 96 percent accuracy, and also predicts who has brain amyloid among people who have no memory problems at 90 percent accuracy. This is really remarkable!”

Doctors say with better testing that we might be able to lessen the severity of the disease with earlier interventions. And while the test is not available yet to doctors, experts say it is as a big step toward learning more about the disease and getting closer to a cure. In the meantime, if you feel you are having memory problems, talk to your doctor about it.

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, and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Source: wellandgood.com/blood-test-alzheimers-disease/

Ensure Your Parent Gets the Support They Need

August 15, 2020 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Now may be the time to consider moving your parent into assisted living as a way to ensure they get the daily support they need in a safe, comfortable environment. Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Beaverton provide all of the comforts and care residents need to thrive!

Assisted living also provides peace of mind if your mom or dad has poor balance or failing eyesight, which can increase the likelihood of a fall, and not having help close at hand can be dangerous. In addition, if a parent no longer drives, it may be difficult for them to get groceries and other necessary supplies including prescription medications or to see a doctor.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s mission is to provide the best assisted living Beaverton Oregon has to offer. Our beautiful community provides assisted living residents help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to help maintain their independence. Residents and their families take comfort knowing our trained care managers are there to help them navigate through any changes in their health condition. And if you wondered, couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or a suite can be shared by friends who enjoy one another’s company.

Another thing you will no longer have to worry about is whether mom or dad is getting enough good, healthy food to eat. MorningStar’s daily meals feature the freshest ingredients and are prepared using the highest quality produce, often homegrown and locally sourced as we know there is nothing like fresh foods to stimulate the senses and the appetite.

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during this time of 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 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 assisted living Beaverton Oregon offers.