Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

By MorningStar

  • Blog
MorningStar Golden Ridge-Casita LR.jpg

Smartly-designed, Spacious Floor Plans

March 19, 2021 by Karla A

If you live in the Peoria, AZ area, we invite you to take a look at our beautiful senior living community, MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Located near the Cardinal’s stadium and close to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation, our goal is to provide seniors with the best carefree retirement years.

Our community offers independent living with 38 Casitas that include attached garages for active seniors who love the idea of maintenance-free living for a lifestyle that is as relaxed or as active as you like. Nestled in their own private neighborhood on our large campus, each has premium upgrades that characterize our homes. Moreover when you compare our fees alongside our competitors, you will get a good sense of the value we offer. To see the layout of our Casitas, visit our website and pull down the “Floorplan” tab to see two different configurations. Both have two-bedrooms and two-baths and feature contemporary designs such as kitchens with breakfast bars, high-quality stainless-steel appliances, premium quartz countertops, stained wood cabinets and high-end wood-laminate plank flooring.

In our main building, we have 65 assisted living suites for those requiring a helping hand with daily personal care activities. Here our floor plans include studios; and one-bedroom, one-bath; two-bedroom, one-bath; and two bedrooms, 1/1/2 baths. All assisted living suites include private heating & air conditioning, kitchenettes, weekly housekeeping, stackable washer/dryer in most, and more.

For residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we have 35 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood. Floorplans include one-bedroom, one bath or two-bedroom, one bath. Suites in assisted living and memory care also have a kitchenette with quartz surfaces, stainless full-size fridge and breakfast bar as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24-hour emergency call systems.

All of our senior living options are designed with lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, and mini blinds. In addition we are pet friendly. Our vibrant community is on 8.8 acres and every aspect is designed to give you care-free retirement years with a dedicated hospitality and care team who feel called to serve seniors.

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 beautiful Peoria.

March 19, 2021 /Karla A
assisted living
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Clinical Trial to Learn if a Healthier Lifestyle Protects Cognitive Function

March 11, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

The Alzheimer’s Association is partnering with the Wake Forest School of Medicine in a new, first-of-its-kind intervention trial called the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk (U.S. POINTER).  The two-year clinical trial wants to learn if lifestyle interventions that simultaneously target multiple risk factors can protect cognitive function in older adults between the ages of 60-79 who are at increased risk for cognitive decline.  

The national study hopes to “create a new and healthier ‘normal’ through lifestyle changes.”  While research has already shown that a healthier lifestyle protects our bodies’ overall health, scientists now want to know if it can also protect the health of the brain  from future memory problems such as Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  

The U.S. Pointer study is currently being conducted at sites in North Carolina, California, Illinois, Texas and Rhode Island, and is the first study of its kind to be done on such a large group of participants from across the United States.  Additionally, it is part of a worldwide consortium of other similar research including the 2014 Finland study of healthy older adults at increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.  The “FINGER Study” (Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability) reports that “a two-year combination therapy simultaneously targeting physical exercise, a healthy diet, cognitive stimulation, and self-monitoring of heart health risk factors had a protective effect on cognitive function.”  

Along with independent living and assisted living, MorningStar of Arvada offers 29 secure memory care suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. 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.

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

Source: alz.org/us-pointer/overview.asp

March 11, 2021 /Karla A
assisted living, dementia, alzheimer's
Healthy Seniors
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Assisted Living at MorningStar of Beaverton

March 10, 2021 by Karla A

MorningStar of Beaverton offers 66 private assisted living suites that are specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors who wish to retain their independence but require a little help each day. Once you decide that MorningStar is the place you want to call “home,” you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director to discuss your needs and set up a care plan that ensures your comfort, well-being and safety.

Some of the services we provide include help with daily personal activities such as bathing and grooming; 24-hour Care Managers; a CPR-trained staff member on each shift, and a licensed nurse on call 24/7 and on-site 5 days a week. We also provide regular Care Plan reviews, medication management, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, pharmacy services, and much more. Each MorningStar Care Level has its own monthly fee and is based on the cost and time it takes to provide the service.

In addition, we know that a good diet is important to keep seniors healthy, which is why we have a trained Executive Chef on staff that prepares daily meals that are both tasty and nutritional. Our menu is tailored to accommodate various needs and tastes and includes low sodium, sugar free, vegetarian and low-fat choices.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s assisted living also includes a range of wellness programs and activities designed to entertain and stimulate our residents. We offer scheduled transportation services and will resume special outings to local parks, shopping and other recreational venues when it is safe again to do so.

Along with our assisted living suites, MorningStar of Beaverton offers 38 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood that are devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Visit the MorningStar of Beaverton website to learn more about our loving senior living community.

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.



March 10, 2021 /Karla A
assisted living
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The Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia

March 05, 2021 by Karla A

John Hopkins 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 conversations 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 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.

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

March 05, 2021 /Karla A
aging
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MorningStar of Arvada's Assisted Living May Enrich Your Life

March 04, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into a senior living community, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives.   

At MorningStar of Arvada, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems, and is smartly-designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents.  Assisted living also includes housekeeping and laundry services, trash removal and full access to all onsite amenities.

Our holistic approach to senior living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassion.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.

In addition, many elderly adults who live alone find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living at our beautiful community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover, if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that with scheduled transportation.  

For a limited time MorningStar of Arvada is offering new residents their 3rd and 6th month free. Please visit our website or contact us to learn more about assisted living as well as our independent living and memory care options.

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.

March 04, 2021 /Karla A
senior living, independent living, assisted living
Healthy Seniors
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Join Our Team and Become an Integral Part of MorningStar’s Success

February 28, 2021 by Karla A

Phoenix area MorningStar senior living communities are offering the right individuals the chance to work in a place where team work is not only encouraged but greatly supported.  To have an opportunity to work at a place that inspires every member to use their unique gifts for the good of the team, the residents, their families and the community around them.  We invite you to consider working at MorningStar where our entire team is an integral part of our success and where you will be given the tools to grow professionally and personally.     

Once you see one of our communities, we know you will be impressed with its beauty and range of amenities; however, the thing we are the most proud of is the love, laughter and compassion found beneath our roofs.  Our four communities - MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge - deliver the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care to area seniors.    

To provide the level of exceptional service our brand is built on, we are seeking individuals with virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness to fill a variety of positions.  All of our openings, including housekeeping jobs, at our Phoenix homes provide an opportunity to get to know our wonderful residents as they share their remarkable life stories with us.  

Along with generous compensation, insurance and a host of other benefits, MorningStar wants all of our team members to be to be the best at what they do, and do each job with confidence.  To that end, we invest in comprehensive employee training programs such as:  O2 (Orientation & Onboarding); Lavender Sky (Dementia Care); Radiance (Culture, Customer Service); Inhabit (for the Community Relations team); Brain Boosts (for the Reflections care team); and Relias Video Courses (paid to view from home). 

We invite you to visit the MorningStar website to learn more about our communities as well as our various job openings.  You will find descriptions and responsibilities of each role within MorningStar homes and an online application.  Positions are full and part-time and include a range of shifts and weekends.  

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.


February 28, 2021 /Karla A
senior living, senior care, senior health
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MorningStar of Arvada Offers Dementia Care Under a "Lavender Sky"

February 26, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar Senior Living of Arvada provides 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   

Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch.  However most importantly, we embrace hope.  

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.  

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.

February 26, 2021 /Karla A
dementia, assisted living, memory care
Healthy Seniors
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MorningStar of Beaverton’s Goal is to Provide the Best Senior Living Possible

February 26, 2021 by Karla A

At MorningStar of Beaverton, an assisted living facility in suburban Portland, OR, our goal is to provide the best senior living possible. To ensure we meet our standard of service excellence, each of MorningStar’s team members from caregivers to housekeepers go through our proprietary service excellence “Radiance” training. In addition, its precepts are reiterated each day during our daily “Huddle.”

Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness, which issues from a deep and sincere place as does a beam of light, and is the framework that guides the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth. As one team member from a MorningStar community writes, “Radiance training is absolutely phenomenal!” She says she appreciates the fact that it helps team members to be their best at work as well as in their personal lives.

We believe Radiance is the evidence of our resolve to be a place that is not only distinguished by compassion and care, but by service professionalism as its presence and influence is felt throughout our community. Under its teachings, residents are treated as family members, and as such, our priority is to respond to their expressed and unexpressed needs and wishes.

Newly opened in late 2018, MorningStar of Beaverton was meticulously designed with welcoming common areas, beautiful suites and 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 contact us for more information about our exceptional community and all the services, amenities and programs we offer residents.

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.


February 26, 2021 /Karla A
senior living
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Wondering if the Time is Right for Assisted Living?

February 25, 2021 by Karla A

Sometimes a senior experiences a fall or anther medical emergency that precipitates the need for a change in their living circumstances such as a move into assisted living. Other times, the situation is not so clear-cut and is more a case of a senior slowly losing the ability to attend to their daily care needs. We know it is upsetting for families to see their loved one lose a step, which is why experts offer advice to help determine if an assisted living setting would be an improvement in their lifestyle.

One way to decide if assisted living is right for your parent or another loved one is to take an inventory of the things they are having trouble doing for themselves and if assistance would improve their quality of life. For instance, are they having a hard time preparing and cooking meals or need help bathing, toileting, and dressing? Have they stopped driving and spend a lot of time alone? Is your normally tidy mom now letting the household tasks go and even mail is stacking up unopened and bills not getting paid?

Other factors that indicate the need for more help includes recent falls or burns from using water that is too hot or from trying to cook. Warning signs also include a history of medication mismanagement or worsening chronic health problems, which could all benefit from the care received in an assisted living community.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our vibrant campus is on 8.8 acres and includes assisted living as well as independent living and memory care. We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as our hospitality and care team who feel called to serve seniors. 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. 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 lovely Peoria.

February 25, 2021 /Karla A
assisted living
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Tips to Help Maintain and Improve Your Memory

February 22, 2021 by Karla A

In a recent article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health. Furthermore they are also a benefit to the whole body health.

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain. An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.” Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommendation a minimal of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming. However before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

In addition continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health. This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night. Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community is grateful looking toward a brighter future. As our staff and residents get the COVID-19 vaccination, life in our community is nearer a more normal. We are proud to have a team committed to serving seniors and who understand that our residents deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Please visit our website to check on availability. Our gorgeous community offers independent living, assisted living memory care and respite care.

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

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

February 22, 2021 /Karla A
memory care
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Tips to Help Your Loved One Find the Best Senior Living Community

February 19, 2021 by Karla A

Experts recommend that your first step before beginning an actually search for the “perfect” senior living community should start by compiling answers to some important questions. The first is to evaluate the level of care mom or dad needs, or if you are looking for yourself, be honest about the care you need to improve the quality of your life.

Also take a look at your finances to determine your range of affordability. Include pensions, annuities and other retirement income as well as social security. An Elder law attorney can help you explore other options including your eligibility for Veterans benefits, long-term care insurance, real estate assets that can be sold or leveraged, life insurance, tax benefits, etc.

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s situation, begin your search of senior living communities in your preferred location that meet the above criteria as well as offer onsite amenities and services desired. If mom or dad no longer drives, does the community offer transportation to doctor appointments? Is a meal service included? Is it important for you to have a fitness center, hair salon, swimming pool, WiFi, etc. onsite? Do you need parking? These are just a few of the questions to consider when looking for the perfect community. Once you narrow down your options, give the communities a call to inquiry about availability, pricing, and other particulars.

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, you will find our beautiful all-inclusive home has it all including independent living, assisted living, memory care, companion living, and respite care. Our expansive campus offers 38 quadraplexes for active seniors tucked away in its own private neighborhood; and a main building with 65 assisted living suites for those requiring a helping hand with the activities of daily living (ADLs). Additionally we have a separate wing devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Visit our website for more information and to take a look at our virtual tour, floor plans and amenities.

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.

February 19, 2021 /Karla A
senior living
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The Food We Eat or Don't Eat May Affect Our Risk for Alzheimer's

February 15, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Several studies are showing links to our dietary habits and our risk for Alzheimer’s.  The Mayo Clinic reports that a hybrid of two diets, the DASH diet that helps reduce high blood pressure and the Mediterranean diet that improves heart health, may protect our brain health.   

Known as the "MIND" diet, which is short for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, the diet consists of lots of natural plant-based foods while limiting red meat, saturated fat and sugar.  Based on observational studies, research suggests that following the MIND diet can “reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by up to 53 percent as well as slow cognitive decline and improve verbal memory.”

One category of food at the top of the list is green leafy vegetables with a recommendation of at least six servings a week in dishes such as salads.  The diet also includes one serving of other vegetables daily.  MIND’s primary fruit is to eat berries at least twice a week.  Red meat is reduced to less than four times a week, cheese to less than one serving per week, while poultry and fish consumed twice or once a week respectively.  Other recommended proteins include nuts and beans.  

Oil should be mainly from Olive Oil and butter or margarine reduced to less than a tablespoon a day; and fried or fast food eaten less than once a week.  MIND includes a glass of wine a day but limits pastries and sweets to less than five times a week.   The Mayo Clinic says study results also found you do not have to strictly follow the diet to gain benefits.  For example, “adults in the study who followed the diet most closely (an average score of 9.6 points out of 15) saw the biggest drop in their Alzheimer's risk, the ones who scored in the middle (7.5 points) still cut their risk by over a third.” 

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, our many services and amenities include 5-Star dining.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest, healthiest of ingredients.  We offer 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites and another 29 secure memory care suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  As a new resident, you will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.   Visit our website 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.  Please visit our website for availability of assisted living and independent living as well as the most experienced, loving memory care Arvada CO offers.  

Source: 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/15-simple-diet-tweaks-cut-alzheimers-risk/art-20342112

February 15, 2021 /Karla A
independent living, alzheimer's, senior living
Healthy Seniors
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Getting Enough Sleep is Essential to Your Good Health and Wellbeing

February 10, 2021 by Karla A

Research clearly shows that getting enough sleep each night is important to our good health and well-being. In fact, doctors say it is as vital to one’s health as is regular exercise and eating a balanced diet, and the benefits extend into most every aspect of our lives.

While scientists are unable to directly link lack of sleep to weight gain, evidence suggests that it may interfere with our body’s ability to regulate food intake correctly. One study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, a publisher of high-impact research reports, commentaries, perspectives, and reviews, found that sleep patterns do affect the hormones responsible for appetite.

Getting enough sleep should also be an essential part of an athlete’s training regimen as adequate sleep helps to improve both physical and mental performance. A good night’s rest has been proven to refuel athletes and give them more intensity and energy as well as faster speed. Doctors recommend an average of 7 to 9 hours for most adults and up to 10 hours for athletes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds that getting proper sleep each night allows the body’s blood pressure to regulate, and helps to reduce sleep apnea and promote better overall heart health. A study even suggests that inadequate sleep can result in a reduced ability to empathize with others, while another found a link between lack of sleep and depression. Others report inflammation and sleep may be linked including a recent study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology that suggests “a link between sleep deprivation and inflammatory bowel diseases.”

To get a good night’s sleep, experts recommend going to bed around the same time each night and to avoid sleeping in later than you need to. Try to get plenty of exercise during the day and reduce stress with exercise or other therapies.

If you are looking for a relaxing, carefree lifestyle, and a comfy new home to lay your head in each night, we invite you to take a look at MorningStar of Beaverton’s beautiful assisted living and memory care community. Offering senior living residences with stylish, smartly-designed suites, we enjoy a picturesque setting overlooking natural wetlands. Our community was meticulously built from the ground up to address the needs of our residents and to provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Contact us or visit our website to learn why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Beaverton represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Please visit our website for more information about outstanding assisted living and memory care in Beaverton, Oregon.


Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325353

February 10, 2021 /Karla A
senior health
Morningstar-Arvada-Interior-05-06-19-Model-Kitchen-Web.jpg

Have Questions about Senior Living? Check Out Our Many Online Resources

February 05, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

At MorningStar of Arvada, we want prospective families to know we are here to answer all their questions, and once the decision is made to join our 55+ community, we provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition.  In addition we offer a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays.    

Our all-inclusive independent living offers seniors a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. It also provides peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself needing help with daily personal care; we can make sure you get it.   

Moreover contrary to what many think about assisted living, it actually is designed to help seniors maintain their sense of independence.  By providing assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), residents can focus on living their life to the fullest.  Upon joining our community, residents have an Individualized Care Plan created for them after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their family.  

Finally we proudly provide comprehensive memory care Arvada, CO families trust with 29 secure suites dedicated to caring for our most tender resident.  To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained on the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care.  Additionally our community is equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  In fact every aspect of our memory care is designed around the needs of each resident from our physical environment, activities and programs, meals, and more.  

As the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care, MorningStar of Arvada offers a whole range of resort-style amenities, services, and wellness programs and activities.  Our goal is to provide residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. Please visit our website to learn more about our community and our commitment 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.

February 05, 2021 /Karla A
memory care, assisted living, independent living
Healthy Seniors
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The Benefits of Assisted Living at MorningStar of Beaverton

February 05, 2021 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), the rule of thumb to determine if in-home care services or an assisted living community is less expensive is does the person requires 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 an assisted living community like MorningStar of Beaverton, 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 mobile aids as well as has 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.

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, we encourage you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about our loving home. We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing. Our beautiful community offers 66 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs. In addition, 38 secure suites are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

MorningStar of Beaverton represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Please visit our website for more information about outstanding assisted living and memory care in Beaverton, Oregon.


February 05, 2021 /Karla A
assisted living
MorningStar Retirement Living.jpg

Our Beautiful Phoenix Communities are Seeking Housekeepers

January 29, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

If you are the type of person who enjoys seniors and takes pride in doing an excellent job, we invite you to apply for one of our housekeeping jobs in Phoenix and the surrounding area.  MorningStar Senior Living’s Phoenix communities are not only beautifully designed but have earned a reputation for offering the area’s highest standard of senior living. 

As a MorningStar housekeeper, you will join a team of dedicated professionals who feel privileged to serve seniors and willingly go the extra mile to help a resident or another team member.  Indeed, we are incredibly blessed to have a staff with a felt calling to serve and who share our core values of love, kindness, honesty, fairness and respect.  

While keeping our gorgeously-appointed surroundings spotless, you will also have the opportunity to get to know our residents better while you are cleaning their homes.  Your responsibilities will include performing assigned tasks in accordance with established housekeeping procedures and keeping your work area maintained in a clean, safe, comfortable and attractive manner.  In addition, you will be charged with maintaining the confidentiality of resident-care information and respecting residents’ personal property.  

While we prefer experience, most importantly we are seeking individuals who want to be a part of our MorningStar family and to work as a team to work toward our success.  At MorningStar Senior Living, we are proud to create a work environment where life is enriched, stories are shared and lives are cherished.  

Morningstar is proud to support our valuable team members with a very generous benefit package.  Our benefits start with competitive wages, plus bonus and incentive opportunities in some positions, and extend all the way through comprehensive insurance, training, and employee leave and support programs.  Please visit our website for more information regarding rewarding housekeeping jobs as well as other openings in our loving Phoenix area communities. 

At MorningStar Senior Living, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  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.  For a rewarding career, please visit MorningStar’s Join Our Team page for details regarding housekeeping jobs in Phoenix.

January 29, 2021 /Karla A
senior living, assisted living, memory care
Healthy Seniors
MorningStar-Beaverton_DP_7161.jpg

Your Wellness Visit Should Include a Cognitive Assessment

January 26, 2021 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.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our assisted living facility includes 38 secure suites offering individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a team of individuals who understand 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 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.


January 26, 2021 /Karla A
memory care
Morningstar-Arvada-Interior-05-06-19-Pool-Web.jpg

Enjoy Life to the Fullest by Adopting a More Positive Outlook

January 25, 2021 by Karla A in Healthy Seniors

Now that we have finally put 2020 behind us and are ready to move forward, why not do it with a more positive attitude?  Experts explain that developing and maintaining positive energy involves “more than merely thinking happy thoughts.”  It should include things like a belief that our problems will work out and that we can expect good results.      

The Mayo Clinic divides people’s thinking into the age-old adage of the glass half empty, half full and says that a number of studies show that an optimistic or pessimistic belief can affect many areas of our health and wellbeing.  For example, those with optimistic outlooks tend to manage stress better, which we know can be bad for blood vessels and heart health as well as cause insomnia, anxiety and more.  Being an optimist can increase our longevity, reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, and endow us with better coping skills during challenging times.  

Experts suggest in order to cultivate more optimism in our day-to-day thinking, we should practice positive self-talk.  This means talking as kindly to ourselves as we do with other people.  They also say it is helpful to be surrounded with positive people and to follow a healthy lifestyle including eating well and getting at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days.  Another powerful tool is to embrace humor.  Let yourself laugh, smile at others and try to find humor even in difficult situations.    

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we specialize in offering carefree retirement years with 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites in various configurations including spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans.  If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we also provide 29 secure suites that are staffed by a team of compassionate dementia care specialists.  Please visit our website for 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 to learn more about the finest, unrivalled independent living, assisted living, and memory care Arvada, CO offers.    

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

January 25, 2021 /Karla A
independent living, dementia, senior living
Healthy Seniors
MorningStar Golden Ridge-Courtyard.jpg

The Pandemic May Have Strengthened Our Relationship with Nature

January 25, 2021 by Karla A

A recent survey by the University of Vermont reports people have gotten out in nature much more during the pandemic than in prior times. The online survey found that 3,200 Vermonters between May 3 and May 19, 2020, who were at the time under the State’s strictest quarantine rules, not only got out in nature more but felt better for doing it.

As many as 70 percent of participants reported they were walking more, and 64% percent said they were spending more time wildlife watching. Relaxation accounted for 58% of the reason people got out in nature, and taking photos or creating art increased by as much as 54 percent.

All told, 60 percent of those surveyed said they felt that simply getting out in nature improved their mental health and wellbeing. While 29 percent said they got out mainly for exercise, another 29 percent reported appreciating nature’s beauty and 22 percent felt connect to something bigger than themselves.

The Harvard Publishing Health journal also recently reported on an emerging scientific field called ecotherapy, which finds a strong link between time spent in nature and a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression. In a 2015 study, researchers report that “those who did a nature walk had lower activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region that is active during rumination — defined as repetitive thoughts that focus on negative emotions.” So no more excuses; head out to a local park and start enjoying nature as it is not only good for your physical health but your mental health.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community is situated on 8.8 acres and offers seniors a welcoming, comfortable home for carefree retirement years. In addition to independent living and assisted living, we also provide compassionate, holistic memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. We also want new residents to know that they will have priority access to the COVID vaccine. Please visit our website to learn more.

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

Source:

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-has-the-pandemic-influenced-our-relationship-with-nature#The-benefits

health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/sour-mood-getting-you-down-get-back-to-nature

January 25, 2021 /Karla A
senior care
MorningStar Golden Ridge-Dining.jpg

Are You Ready for Retirement?

January 22, 2021 by Karla A

If you are thinking about retirement, you may be wondering if you are ready. One concern many older Americans have regarding their retirement is whether they have saved enough money. On this score, experts state you don’t need enormous wealth to be happy in retirement, but just need enough.

So how much is enough for you to live well in retirement? Again financial planners say you do not have to match your annual income to be comfortable as you will not be paying for commuting costs or paying into Social Security and Medicare. You will also not be putting money into a retirement account. One guideline suggests you may want about 80 to 85 percent of your preretirement income, and perhaps less is you have a paid-off mortgage.

Another thing to remember is your time is worth a lot and retirement does not have to be about expensive vacations and entertainment but rather giving you the time for the little things in life. Enjoying dinner with our family, spending time with friends, or playing with our grandkids have all become more precious during the pandemic and most of us cannot wait until we have the opportunity to do these things again.

Making your health a priority is also important and while we cannot control our genetics, we can do some things to help improve our health including getting more exercise and enough sleep. Keep in mind that doctors say any exercise is better than none. In fact, a large survey of 334,000 Europeans found that “the biggest beneficiaries of exercise — those who went from inactive to moderately inactive — had a 16 to 30 percent drop in premature death risk.”

Other tips to enjoy your retirement years more fully is to have a purpose. Maybe you always wanted to donate time to a charity, work in local youth programs, or organize fund-raising activities for your church; retirement is a great time to start. Moreover by this summer, hopefully most of us will be vaccinated and leading more normal lives so be ready to get out and really start living yours!

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community, we are proud to offer the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. We accomplish this with the help of a dedicated team of individuals who understand it is a privilege to serve seniors. Please visit our website to learn more.

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

Source:

aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2020/5-secrets-to-retire-happy.html

January 22, 2021 /Karla A
aging
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