Study Shows the Benefits of Walking for Exercise

A recent study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking. Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.

The 2 ½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail. The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises. The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.” The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.

Another thing to encourage seniors to exercise is experts consider the ability to walk on one’s own without assistance the key to their independence. Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes. If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.

Visit the MorningStar of Beaverton website to learn more about our loving senior living community. Here we have direct links for pricing and availability as well as floor plans, a list of amenities and services, and information on MorningStar’s commitment to providing seniors trusted assisted living and memory care.

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Beaverton, OR.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

To Aid a Speedy Recovery - Some Tips for Before & After Surgery

Medical experts say there are things we can do before and after that may help encourage our recovery from surgery. One of the first things says Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, is to think of surgery not as a sprint but rather as a full marathon or race. She explains, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after. You want your body to be as prepared as possible, and exercise and good nutrition before and after surgery are part of this."

Before your surgery, your doctor may have you screened for a series of health problems including malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and then take steps to address them. As exercise is another important part of getting in shape, you should talk to your surgeon about what is safe for you to do. If you feel you need more guidance, ask if you are a candidate for a pre-habilitation program as it can show you the best type of exercise to safely strengthen your body in readiness for surgery. Also be sure to ask about what kind of exercise is safe to do after the surgery. Doctors say typically the quicker you are to move, the quicker you get your strength back.

If you find yourself suffering from preoperative anxiety, ask your surgeon to walk you through the experience so you know what to expect including “pre-surgery, during surgery, the hospital stay and recovery after surgery," Dr. Fisher explains. Your post-surgery diet should be rich in protein, and avoid sugary and processed foods. Also stay hydrated. Quitting smoking is another thing that offers big benefits in post-surgical outcomes as “smoking increases the risk of blood clots, reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to the tissues that need it and increases stress on the heart.” Finally if something doesn’t seem right about your recovery, contact your surgeon.

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 assisted living and independent living in Peoria, AZ.

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery

The Role of Caregiver can be Stressful!

If you are the main caregiver for an elderly family member who requires help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), it may be the job is becoming too much for you. The Nov/Dec issue of Today’s Geriatric Medicine cites a study by the “National Alliance for Caregiving and Caring Across Generations,” which states that more than 11 million American adults are considered sandwich generation caregivers and bear the responsibility of simultaneously caring for their children as well as an aging family member. In total it is believed there are approximately 40.4 million unpaid caregivers for adults 65 years and older in the United States consisting of adult children, spouses, relatives or friends. In addition 61 percent of those caregivers are employed, including nearly half who work full-time and juggle their own family responsibilities.

While for most, caregiving is a labor of love but there is no denying it can be challenging. Whether you are an adult child with your own children, a spouse, or another relative, you may feel it is time ask for help. This decision may lead you to an assisted living community where mom or dad will receive all the care they need and you can go back to being their loving child. If you are a spouse who has been responsible for the caregiving duties, senior living communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge warmly welcome married couples to live together in their own suite, surrounded by their own treasured possessions.

We are pleased to give residents and their families peace of mind knowing that trained care managers are there to help navigate changes in health, and that transportation is available for doctor visits and other errands. It is also a relief to know mom or dad will have nutritional, daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef, built-in companionship, and the comfort of knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed.

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community has a team of caregivers who feel it is a privilege to serve seniors and understand that residents deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Our community has 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 and other forms of dementia.

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.

Source:

viewer.zmags.com/publication/d04ca42b#/d04ca42b/9

pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/11/18/5-facts-about-family-caregivers/

Unsurpassed Independent Living in Peoria

While senior living options abound in the greater Phoenix area, we think you will find MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a step above the rest. Our gorgeous community offers all of the amenities and services you need for relaxed, carefree retirement years and is located in the attractive community of Peoria. Moreover our range of housing options including independent living, assisted living and memory care.

If you are an active seniors looking who wants to start enjoying your retirement years, we recommend taking a look at our Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages), which are tucked into their own private neighborhood on our expansive campus. Our Casitas, equipped with premium upgrades and stylish floorplans, offer an incomparable value from anything else in the area.

Another thing you will appreciate about MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s independent living is the freedom from costly, unexpected home repairs and on-going maintenance. Instead you will love the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living. Also you will know where you stand financially with a predictable budget as virtually all of your living expenses (including homeowner’s insurance and property tax) are controlled through the bundled Monthly Rental Fee.

In addition our excellent location (situated near the Cardinal’s stadium) offers easy access to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s main building offers 65 suites for assisted living with one and two-bedroom floor plans. Our memory care wing provides another 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

You also get peace of mind knowing that if you are in one of our Casitas and found yourself in a position where you need care with the tasks of daily living, your request for an assisted living suite will be prioritized. Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful senior living 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. Offering exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we invite you to visit our website for more on trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Debunking Common Myths about Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is what 90% of Americans with the disease have.  In Feb, 2020, the CDC reported 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes; and 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. With such a prevalence of the disease, the Medical News Today website explores some common myths surrounding the cause and treatment of the disease.  

First one is a misconception that type 2 diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.  While not strictly true, diabetes can be a result of a poor diet that includes too much sugar and leads to obesity, which is a risk factor for the disease.  However to complicate the case, doctors do say there is evidence that suggests a high consumption of soda pop is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, although they are not sure why.  

There is also concern that too many people think diabetes is not a serious disease.  This thinking can lead to someone not managing the disease as they should, and result in dangerous complications.  Another myth is that obesity always causes diabetes.   Again medical professionals say while being overweight and obese are risk factor, the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistic Report, 2020, says “11% of people with type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are neither overweight nor obese.” 

Managing the disease well plays a huge role in outcomes.  For those who follow a good diet, maintain a healthy weight, control their blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and stay physically active, usually can avoid dangerous complications.  Doctors also say by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, it is not inevitable that those with prediabetes have to develop type 2 diabetes.  

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we are committed to creating a true home that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. We offer 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites, with another 29 secure memory care suites in our Reflections’ wing devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  While visiting our website, please read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families count on.    

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 for availability of assisted living, independent living and experienced memory care in Arvada CO.  

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-diabetes

What’s the Difference Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home?

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living facility knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Beaverton have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary from studios to two-bedrooms, all of our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, large windows and both natural and overhead lighting. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the kind of senior living area families have come to count on. We have 66 bright suites for assisted living and another 38 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

Worried About Memory Loss? It May be Time to See a Doctor!

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

MorningStar of Arvada offers independent living and assisted living as well as memory care.  Through a range of resort-style amenities and Life Enrichment programs, residents are offered a quality of life other senior living communities simply cannot match.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community and our dedication to serving others.  

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 for more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.    

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Looking for Assisted Living in the Beaverton, Oregon Area?

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be the place for you. For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 66 assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features. Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, lots of windows, ceiling lights, and mini-blinds.

In assisted living, we offer 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 than 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!

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know we have made many changes in our community in our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus. As the nation slowly reopens, MorningStar of Beaverton is judiciously following our state’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing. Please visit our website for a virtual tour of our beautiful community and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a beautiful setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

A Community with Several Neighborhoods under its Roof

The MorningStar of Arvada senior living community is a beautiful, safe place to age in place and offers the benefit of being one community with several neighborhoods under its roof.  We start with 112 fully-equipped bright independent and assisted living suites that just need your furnishings and personal treasures in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet).  Our memory care wing has another 29 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.    

To provide the kind of memory care Arvada, CO families can depend on; we begin with a high staff to resident ratio.  We then provide all employees comprehensive training in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach to memory care and leads to a better understanding of the disease.  In addition along with a whole range of meaningful activities and programs, residents receive full-time non-medical care, transportation, and a meal service geared toward their special needs.  They also receive assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) that include dressing, toileting, eating, transferring from a bed or a chair, etc., and more.  All of this is done with the belief that caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is our calling—our privilege, as we find ways to celebrate and elevate life.

Moreover if you start out in independent living, you have the comfort of knowing if you later require help with the ADLs, you will get first priority for an assisted living suite.  In fact residents can transfer to Assisted Living or Memory Care, depending on the availability of the desired suite; and if there is any delay, you are welcome to bring in a home care agency in the interim.  And there is no internal Transfer Fee.  Please visit our website for more info.

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 to learn more about compassionate memory care Arvada, CO families count on.  

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

As We Age, Socializing Opportunities Often Start to Diminish

As we age, socializing opportunities often start to diminish. Many seniors no longer go into an office daily; while others start to feel uncomfortable driving, have mobility issues or physical ailments, have experienced the recent loss of a spouse, or other factors that limits their ability to socialize. Now add in the fact that many seniors are refraining from joining family activities due to COVID-19, it can be a lonely time for many older adults.

Lack of socialization in the elderly has many downsides. Seniors who say they feel isolated and lonely have been found to have higher rates of depression, more anxiety, lower sense of self-esteem, and shorter life-spans. Conversely older adults with a more robust social network appear to benefit from better physical, mental and cognitive health. Studies show socially active seniors handle stress better, which in turn leads to better cardio health and improved immune systems.

While many senior communities may not be as open to the public as they were before the start of the pandemic; nonetheless community living provides peace of mind to residents knowing someone is always around. At the MorningStar Senior Living communities, we adhere to the various states’ guidelines in which a particular community is located to keep residents as safe as possible.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we proudly announce we are “OPEN to LIFE WHAT EVER the SEASON” and that “COVID-19 HAD NO POWER TO CANCEL LOVE!” And we practice that philosophy every day. We continue to offer opportunities to socialize and connect with others while still remaining safe. With 66 bright suites for assisted living, MorningStar apartments are true homes that offer residents privacy, comfort, and ease. Please see our website to discover why MorningStar of Beaverton is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

MorningStar has Openings for Housekeepers in the Phoenix Area

At the MorningStar communities in Phoenix we have assembled a compassionate team of individuals who feel privileged to have careers that allow them to serve seniors.   Working together, our dedicated team is helping to create true homes for our residents.  Currently we seek like-minded people to apply for a variety of roles including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix’s finest senior living communities.   

Unlike working as a housekeeper for a corporation or in a hotel, your position as a MorningStar housekeeper will allow you to make a real difference in the lives of seniors.  Furthermore, unlike many other jobs, you will be encouraged to interact and get to know our residents as you clean their homes.  In fact, many residents love sharing life stories and memories and showing off their cherished items and photographs.  You will also feel good knowing you have contributed to keeping our beautiful communities spotless, and will feel even better when residents let you know how much they appreciate your hard work.

In addition, MorningStar offers opportunities to grow both professionally as well as personally.  Along with competitive wages, insurance, and training, MorningStar offers a host of other benefits that are designed to enrich and support our employees’ lives on a broad variety of fronts. Just some of these benefits include: 

• the opportunity to participate in global philanthropy 

• leave granted for jury duty, bereavement or voting, extended leave of absence beyond federal requirements 

• an Onshift wallet (access to earned wages before pay day) 

• impact incentive salary for communities with active COVID-19, exceeding federal/state requirements for leave and paid time off due to COVID-19, ample PPE availability

• easy transfer to another MorningStar community 

We have deliberately created a culture defined not only by what we do but by the kind of people who bring it all to life – our dedicated team members.  We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our housekeeping jobs in Phoenix’s exceptional senior living communities - MorningStar at Arcadia; MorningStar at Arrowhead; MorningStar of Fountain Hills; and MorningStar at Golden Ridge.

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 options.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  If you would like to serve, we invite you to visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on a range of positions including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix.

Scientists Find Clues that May Help Us Age Better

An interesting study from geneticists at Stanford University’s School of Medicine is discovering distinct patterns in how people age and say it may offer a path to better navigate the aging process. As one of the lead researchers, Dr. Michael Snyder explains, staying healthy isn’t just about how old you get to, but rather “how you get old.”

Snyder’s team has discovered what they call body “ageotypes” that offer specific clues to how we experience aging through the course of our lifetime that result in “very distinct patterns” within these various groups. Moreover scientists hope that it may give people information to how they can better take care of themselves to improve their own aging journey.

The study looked at the differences between biological age and chronological age of the participants and attributes some of it to lifestyle choices such as a smoker’s lungs or the health of the heart in a chronically obese person. In addition, researchers explain this is not the only factor that influences aging but that different ageotypes may actually define how a person’s body ages, with certain parts aging faster or slower.

So far the team has identified four distinct ageotypes: metabolic agers, people whose immune systems age fastest; immune agers; liver agers; kidney agers; and say there will eventually be more types. Right now they believe that once doctors have use of this type of information, they can help their patients make actionably plans tailored to their specific needs to not only live longer but better. For instance if your doctor identified you as a metabolic ager, he could suggest a plan that included eating healthier and exercising.

Providing unrivalled senior living in the Peoria area, MorningStar at Golden Ridge is designed to fully support our residents’ to help them live life to the fullest. We offer independent living, assisted living and memory care, and encourage 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 trusted, loving assisted living and independent living in Peoria, AZ.

Learn More About MorningStar of Beaverton

Once you learn more about our community, we are sure you will agree that MorningStar of Beaverton is senior living at its best. In fact, the MorningStar Senior Living Company was founded by Ken Jaeger as the fulfillment of his dream to create senior housing defined by the human touch and a sense of family. We believe our community has achieved that dream and is a true home for our remarkable residents.

To meet our residents’ needs and ensure their comfort, wellbeing and safety, we are deliberate about the individuals we hire to become part of our distinguished team. Every new employee is carefully vetted and chosen for virtues such as kindness, selflessness, and character. We look for people who are committed to perfecting the art of anticipating needs and willingly go the extra mile to serve.

Once team members are hired, they are trained in “Radiance,” which is much more than just a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart. With a tagline of “Service Becomes Us,” it is used to guide the way we deliver service – with sincerity and depth of purpose. Also its precepts enhance the loving atmosphere of our home.

When you visit our website, take a moment to view a few of our Twice the Stories video series featuring the tender relationships that forms between our residents and team members. We believe these friendships testify to the fact that we all need to lean upon and lean into each other, and that we all come away changed for the better.

Newly opened in November 2018 in a western suburb of Portland, MorningStar of Beaverton was meticulously built to offer all the comforts of home. Our community includes 66 assisted living suites, as well as 38 secure memory care suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information and a link for pricing and availability.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a beautiful setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

At Morning Star at Golden Ridge, Love Starts at the Top

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we are pleased to offer Peoria area seniors a warm, welcoming home to safely and comfortable age in place. We start by providing them with resort-style amenities; meaningful, entertaining activities, and a broad range of care services. All of this is done through the tireless efforts of our loving staff, which starts from the top with a dedicated management team.

Our Executive Director, Melissa Miloz sets the perfect tone for all those under her servant-minded, purpose-driven leadership by her commitment to cast a new light on senior living. She says it brings her joy knowing that every day she impacts the life of a resident, family member or team member in a positive way. She also loves hearing our residents’ stories and takes pleasure in making sure their lives continue to be filled with happiness, joy, and enrichment. Melissa says she is grateful to have the privileged to be in a profession she feels chosen to serve in.

Debra Kiesner serves as our Wellness Director and loves the fact that she is able to make life better for our deserving seniors who have worked so hard for their families and our country throughout their lifetimes. She says seniors have taught her to open her heart, to be kind, forgiving and thankful. She feels it is her job to be our residents’ advocate and to ensure all are treated with respect.

Rounding out our management team is Jennifer Ellsworth, our Director of Community Relations. She relates that she has “walked with my father on the journey of dementia, and I now want to help other families navigate these waters and lighten the burden by imparting knowledge I learned along the way.” She loves working for a company like MorningStar that is known for its integrity.

In addition to these remarkable women, our senior living community is staffed by a team of individuals who love serving seniors. Offering independent living with 38 Casitas tucked into their own private neighborhood in Peoria, for active seniors; our main building has 65 suites for assisted living and another 35 secure suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. 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.

Fall Foods that Taste Good & are Good for Us

Every fall, many of us treat ourselves to a variety of pumpkin dishes from spicy lattes to breads and pies. However this time of year many of our seasonal foods are not only tasty but healthy. The cranberry is one of these foods, which has medical experts giving it at a “super food” status. The Medical News Today website explains that cranberries are high in nutrients as well as antioxidants.

In fact “research has linked the nutrients in cranberries to a lower risk of urinary tract infection (UTI), the prevention of certain types of cancer, improved immune function, and decreased blood pressure.” Other studies have found cranberry supplements to be beneficial in reducing a person’s body mass index (BMI) as well as improve HDL (high density lipoprotein) levels (good cholesterol).

There are also tasty substitutes to help flavor food rather than using salt or sugar. Fresh garlic is one of these. The National Cancer Institute lists garlic “as food that may help fight stomach and colon cancers in some folks.” Other studies have found it may have a small effect on lowering the body’s blood cholesterol.

Cinnamon is another seasoning that adds lots of favor to fall dishes. Beyond its good taste, several recent studies show it may help to lower blood glucose levels for people with Type 2 diabetes, which would be great news for the almost 85 million prediabetes in the country. Adding cinnamon to our diet is as easy as putting a dash in a cup of coffee, tea or cider or sprinkling it on apple slices.

Ginger is another food easy to incorporate into many different dishes and medical experts say it great for the digestive system and helps lessen nausea and motion sickness. Great in Asian dishes and can be added to salad dressings or used in a sauce over grilled fish. Also if you haven’t yet discovered the benefits of turmeric, now would be a good time to do so. Containing curcumin, it has been shown to offer “potential anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties in animal and laboratory studies.”

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we pride ourselves on providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort and wellness including our 5-star food service. Meals are prepared largely from scratch and contain fresh foods and seasoning of which some are locally sourced. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our 38 Casitas designed for independent living, 65 private suites for assisted living, and 35 secure suites devoted to caring for seniors with memory impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269142#:~:text=Many%20people%20consider%20cranberries%20to,function%2C%20and%20decreased%20blood%20pressure.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/2018-10-22/6-healthy-fall-ingredients-and-how-to-use-them?src=usn_nl_yourhealth

Gift Ideas for the Holidays or Just to Bring a Smile to a Loved One’s Face

As the holidays quickly approach, many of us wonder what to get mom or dad or other beloved seniors on our gift list. Moreover while this has been a tough year for most of us, many seniors have been isolated from their children and grandchildren due to the pandemic, making it especially difficult. This is why we want our senior loved ones to know they are very much loved and missed.

If you are buying a gift for a parent in an apartment or senior living community, remember they most likely do not have lots of space to store things so be circumspect about buying a large gift that will used only occasionally. Consider something like a wreath for outside their door to cheer up and personalize their space. Also keep in mind it doesn’t necessarily have to be holiday related but one that can be used all year long. If they have a window where they could see a bird feeder, check with management to see if you can hang one outside. You could also give them a book of birds in their area so they can identify their visitors, and be sure to bring bird seed to refill it.

Even if they live in the Sunbelt without the severe winters of the northern states, they may still appreciate a warm throw, new sweater or a light jacket as many elderly adults tend to feel chilly. Cold feet are another common complaint among the elderly so a new pair of gripper slippers or socks with grips on the bottom to prevent fall would surely be appreciated. Pampering them with a basket full of luxury soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions and creams is another idea as many older adults suffer from very dry skin; or if they are crafters, put together a basket of new craft and art supplies.

Other ideas include giving them a subscription for a large print magazine or a coffee table book that targets their interest. Moreover how about a basket of personalized stationary, a selection of greeting cards and stamps to make it easy for them to send well wishes and greeting to friends and family? It dad or mom is a huge sports fans; consider updating their team merchandise to get them in the spirit. Check the Internet for other ideas and remember to keep the video calls, emails and photos of the family coming!

MorningStar’s Casa Sandoval unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We are set 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.

Dealing with Stress can Adversely Affect Our Mental & Physical Health

We have all gone through the ups and downs of dealing with a pandemic over the last 8 months or so.  Just when we think things are getting better, your community has a resurgence of COVID or your family is struggling with a job loss or other problems.   Experts say this is why it is important to keep ourselves mentally fit and to remember that constant stress can also have an impact on our physical health.  Stress is linked to a wide range of health problems including heart disease as well as affects our mood, sleep and appetite.  

An article by Harvard Medical Publishing says doctors are not sure exactly how chronic stress affects the heart but speculate it may likely trigger inflammation, which is a “known instigator of heart disease.”   While we may not fully understand the role stress plays in our health, doctors say we do know that stress can cause people to act in ways that increase their risk for heart disease including poor eating habits and a lack of energy for healthy habits such as exercising.  It is also believed that not handling stress well can lead to other unhealthy heart behaviors like drinking too much alcohol, abusing drugs, and smoking.  

The article suggests a few changes in our way of thinking may help individuals deal with stress better.  The first piece of advice is to stay positive and to find ways to add laughter into your life.  “Laughter has been found to lower levels of stress hormones, reduce inflammation in the arteries, and increase "good" HDL cholesterol.”  Other tips include practicing meditation and exercising.  Both help reduce blood pressure and stress.  Another key suggestion is to unplug and escape from the world for a period of time each day.  Do something that gives you pleasure such as listen to music, take a warm bath or work on a hobby.  Another good way to reduce stress is to get out and enjoy nature.  

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 for pricing and availability at the most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO offers.   

Source:  

health.harvard.edu/heart-health/5-ways-to-de-stress-and-help-your-heart

Not All Senior Living Communities are the Same!

To provide the utmost comfort, wellness and community to all of our residents, MorningStar of Arvada not only provides resort-style amenities, life enrichment programs, and a full range of care services but also has a staff that feels it is a privilege to serve seniors.  This has helped us to distinguish ourselves from other senior living communities and to create a sense of family and a true home for our residents.  

Each MorningStar of Arvada’s employee is hired for their character and kindness and is the type of person who will routinely go the extra mile to meet our residents expressed needs as well as unexpressed ones; and understand that senior living at its best is love in action.  From our care managers to management, concierges, food servers, nurses and others, our team makes a point to get to know our residents and love hearing their fascinating life stories.  

When a team member is hired, regardless of position, they receive training in Radiance, our service excellence initiative that is much more than a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart.  Radiance guides the way we dispense our service - with sincerity, depth of purpose, and warmth.  

While visiting our website, also take a look at the video series we call Twice the Story.  Showcasing the tender relationships that spring up between residents and team members throughout MorningStar communities, it testifies to the fact that we need to lean upon and lean into each other regardless of where we are in life and what our differences may be.  

Our beautiful community offers lots of choices for seniors interested in independent living or assisted living with 112 bright suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  We also provide 29 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for contact information and to learn about availability and pricing.  

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 for more information on the area’s most compassionate assisted living and memory care as well as independent living in Arvada, CO.    

Hearing Loss and an Increase Risk of Dementia

John Hopkins recently published a study that found mild hearing loss doubles the risk for dementia.  The nearly 12 year study included 639 adults and further reported that a moderate hearing loss tripled the risk, and people with severe hearing loss were five times more likely to develop dementia.

The study was headed by Frank Lin, M.D., Ph.D., who explains that the problem may come from the fact that many people who experience hearing loss deliberately avoid being around others and socially isolate.  A hearing loss makes it difficult for the person to follow conversation and they don’t like to put themselves in social situations that make them uncomfortable.   Another problem is it actually makes our brain’s work harder as it mutes some of the subtle sounds our ears intuitively use to help us safely walk.   

Dr. Lin says his group has another study planned to determine if hearing aids help to mitigate some of the negative effects of hearing loss including the higher risk of dementia.  He does add that hearing aids certainly help individuals get back into the conversation and to enjoy being around their friends and family again.  

Statistics show that while almost 27 million Americans age 50 years and older have some level of hearing loss, only one in seven people use a hearing aid.  If you think your hearing may be diminished, you should make an appointment with an audiologist for a complete hearing check.  Doctors also encourage individuals not to fall prey to the many myths involving hearing aids including worrying about looking older by wearing one as today’s hearing aids are less conspicuous and smaller than ever.  And yes, doctors do say there is a breaking in period for a hearing aid but most doctors and hearing centers offer a trial period to make sure it is the right fit for 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.  Please visit our website to learn more about the most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.  

Source: 

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-hidden-risks-of-hearing-loss

Seeking Great Hearts to Join Our Team

At the MorningStar senior living communities in the Phoenix area, we are on a mission to provide the most loving and compassionate care to our residents.  To help us achieve this goal, we need Great Hearts with a felt calling to serve to join our team and fill a variety of roles including care manager, med tech, housekeeping jobs and more.  Our Phoenix are area communities include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar at Golden Ridge and MorningStar of Fountain Hills.

Doing work that matters changes lives – your own and those you serve as many of our team members will enthusiastically tell you.  Here is one example of a moving story that illustrates the point: “People always ask me why I love my job so much. For me it’s not always about money, but the difference you can make in someone’s life. MorningStar has done so much for me in the short time I have been here. Not only am I changing residents’ lives, but they are changing mine.”   

Thus we seek individuals with virtues such as kindness, character, and selflessness who will go the extra mile to meet residents’ expressed needs as well as their unexpressed ones.  MorningStar also looks for men and women who understand the significance of the work and recognize they are making a difference in the life of a senior.

We are proud to support our team members with some of the most generous benefits in the industry. Compensation starts with competitive wages, and bonus or incentive opportunities (depending on position).  In addition, employees are eligible for paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick time, birthday appreciation day, 401k plan availability, health savings account availability, uniforms, training and advancement opportunities. At MorningStar, we strive to make sure our team is paid well for the valuable services they provide our company.

Please visit MorningStar’s website for a list of assisted living jobs in the Phoenix area as well as detailed job descriptions and an online application.  We help you ignite your passions and discover your natural gifts! 

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.