Food Trends for 2022

Have you heard of carbon emission labeling? Experts say the trend is increasing globally and is a movement intended to reduce the carbon footprint of agriculture. While some of the new products out on the market may seem strange or distasteful, experts say many of them will likely be the foods of the future.

Companies claiming to be carbon neutral (also referred to as “net zero” means emissions are generated but offset by the same amount elsewhere) are now selling products such as milk and eggs in mainstream grocery stores. Other foods in the category of strange include more than a 100 companies around the world experimenting and selling cell-cultured or lab-grown meat without an animal. Cultured meat was first sold in Singapore but as the U.S. Food and Drug has cleared regulatory restrictions, consumers in our country can expect to see it on grocery shelves in 2022.  

Currently several American companies are producing lab-grown, bean-free coffee and cacao bean-free chocolate. Another source of protein used for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives we will see more of comes from the sea. Microalgae protein include sea plants like zoster marina, which is a seagrass known as the rice of the sea and is on its way to becoming another new “superfood.” 

Non-dairy milk options are growing and now include a wide variety of nuts as well as grains, hemp, flax and quinoa. Plant-based cheeses taste better than ever and are made from nuts such as almonds and cashews, soy or coconut-based vegan options. Other offerings we will see more of on grocery shelves include foods enriched with probiotics, prebiotics, vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, or mushroom powders.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an array of amenities, wellness programs, and concierge and care services. Our senior living options include assisted living and independent living for carefree retirement years. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, we provide individualized, compassionate memory care. Please visit our website to learn more about our home and our philosophy regarding caring for seniors. Also be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/slideshows/top-food-trends-for-2022

Are You at Risk for Shingles?

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone the chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a wash cloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community is a true home where residents can comfortably age in place. We have 65 suites for assisted living and 35 secure suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. For active seniors looking for a carefree lifestyle, we offer 38 Casitas tucked into their own private neighborhood. Please contact us to learn more about our concierge services as well as availability and pricing. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Welcome to Your New “Home”

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company that was founded on the mission to: honor God, value all seniors and invest in staff. Our community is set in a warm, loving environment and features exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Together with dedicated team members and our residents and their family members, we strive to create a “true home” with a sense of belonging and family to the wellbeing of all. 

Holding true to our mission of servant leadership, our staff is the kind of people who understand it is a privilege to serve; and treat residents like they do their own moms and dads. In fact serving seniors has given us a profound respect for the many challenges and triumphs they have experienced throughout their lifetime; and is why we consider seniors to be true heroes.  

On almost nine acres, the MorningStar at Golden Ridge community is meticulously designed and supported by an extraordinary hospitality and care team who feel called to serve seniors. We offer several options for senior living starting with 38 independent living Casitas tucked into their own private neighborhood and intended for active seniors. These lovely homes provide the comfort of predictable budgeting as virtually all your living expenses (including homeowner’s insurance and property tax) are controlled through our bundled Monthly Rental Fee. 

Inside our main building, we offer 65 suites for assisted living with options including two-bedroom, one-bath floor plans equipped with kitchenettes with quartz surfaces, stainless full-size fridges and breakfast bars. All bathrooms are handicap-accessible (some suites fully wheelchair accessible) and 24-hour emergency call systems as well as private heating & air conditioning. For seniors needing memory care, we offer 35 secure suites for individualized, specialized care. 

Please visit MorningStar at Golden Ridge for more information about our community as well as pricing and availability. We look forward to hearing from you. In addition, ask about our Move-in Specials.  

Pet Therapy for those with Alzheimer’s & Other Forms of Dementia

Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) is used for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia as a way to alleviate feelings of boredom, loneliness and helplessness. Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard trained geriatrician and author of “The Eden Alternative,” said bringing in children, plants and animals helps to invigorate long-term care by “incorporating companionship, a sense of purpose, variety and spontaneity into the day-to-day experience of aged care residents.”

While studies show therapy dogs and other animals are useful in stimulating social interaction and easing agitation in dementia patients, experts say it should be done with specially trained pets to get the most benefit. Moreover the animal should be matched to the setting as well as to the person. Pet therapists say dogs are generally the easiest to train as they are comfortable interacting with a variety of people.    

The benefits of animal therapy to dementia patients include the unconditional love and acceptance animals freely give out as well as the physical touch from the pet contact. Also these relationships do not require much in the way of communication skills, which are often difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s. Researchers say other benefits of pet therapy include an increase in physical activity and an unexpected improvement in a person’s appetite after a visit from an animal as well as an overall calming effect. 

MorningStar of Arvada offers a unique approach to memory care designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss.  By leveraging the power of art, music, dance, and aromatherapy as well as animals, we strive to heal and comfort our most tender residents. Additionally we offer area seniors 112 bright independent and assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, wellness programs, and hospitality and care services for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Visit our website for availability and pricing to learn more about independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.  

Source: 

verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677

tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.5172/conu.2011.37.2.222

The New Year is the Perfect Time for Change

The New Year is always a time for renewal, and after what the world has gone through during the pandemic, many of us are ready for a change. This includes everyone who feels gratitude for what they have, and a renewed commitment to help others. Philosophers, religious leaders, and learned men and women through time all appear to agree with the sentiment that helping others reaps its own reward. As Robert Louis Stevenson said, "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant," or the quote by Abraham Lincoln who said, "To ease another's heartache is to forget one's own,” there is a universal understanding of true happiness. 

Martin Luther King Jr. urges us to serve with the following: "Life’s persistent and most urgent question is, ‘what are you doing for others?'" Working for a community like one of Phoenix’s MorningStar Senior Living communities, can provide just such an opportunity. To start with, you will join a team of exceptional individuals who understand it is a privilege to help seniors lead the best lives possible. 

Our Phoenix homes, MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge, seek individuals with big hearts to fill various caregiver jobs. Open positions range from care managers to cooks, dining room servers, housekeepers, dishwashers and more. While qualifications vary within our different roles, each job gives a person the chance to serve others and to get the satisfaction knowing they are making a difference. As we understand our team is vital to our success, we reward staff members with competitive wages; comprehensive benefits including healthcare and holiday, vacation and sick time; flexible schedules; and training.    

Read MorningStar’s Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger’s inspiring words when he speaks to MorningStar team members and other groups on living a life of selfless giving: “Don’t wait to serve. Serve now. Give now. Get involved somewhere. It will make you a better person.” To learn more about our Phoenix caregiver jobs, our company and our homes, visit MorningStar website’s “Career” page.  

Helping Our Memory Care Residents Transition to Community Life

As one of the premier senior living communities in the area, MorningStar of Arvada provides seniors the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO. Situated on 1.5 acres, and encircled by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada Reservoir; we proudly offer residents an array of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, care services and more.   

Through our extensive experience, we know what a difficult decision it is for families to begin searching for memory care for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. MorningStar of Arvada would feel honored to be on the top of your list. As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, our home was founded on the mission of “casting a new light on senior living” by: honoring God; valuing all seniors; and investing generously in our team. 

Our philosophy and approach to memory care support is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky; and includes using a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Once your family decides to entrust MorningStar’s community with your loved one, our job is to get to know as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. We do this with a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me,” to create a specialized, individualized service plan. Then each day, residents are presented with a variety of meaningful activities that help to celebrate and elevate their lives. 

For more answers to your questions regarding the support MorningStar of Arvada offers to our most tender residents, we are ready to assist you in whatever way we can. Along with the most trusted memory care Arvada, CO offers, we have independent living and assisted living suites in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet). Also be sure to ask us about our Move-in Specials.

A Protein-rich Breakfast will Keep You Feeling Fuller Longer

How many times have you eaten breakfast, and after an hour or two, you start to feel hungry? Many breakfast options involve foods such as cereals, breads and granola bars that are high in refined grains and sugar. To solve the problem, nutritionists say you should include protein in every meal including your breakfast. 

When you eat a breakfast with protein, you feel fuller and more satisfied for a longer period of time and less apt to reach for high-calorie snacks mid-day. Registered dietician, Lisa Jones, explains an adult’s daily intake of protein should be between 10% and 35% of the calories consumed. She adds, “For example, if your nutritional needs call for 2,000 calories daily, you should get 200 to 700 calories from protein, or 50 to 175 grams.” 

One suggestion for an easy-to-do, protein-rich breakfast is avocado and fried egg on a bagel or enriched whole-grain slice of toast. Omelets are also fairly easy and can be assembled with a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, spinach and bacon. You can increase the protein in a bowl of oatmeal by adding a scoop of protein powder and topping it with almond milk and berries. Try other creative options such as smoked salmon on a toasted whole wheat English muffin spread with cream cheese, or a Greek yogurt parfait layered with granola, nuts, and fruit. Another incentive for eating protein in the morning is nutritionists say it can help you lose weight as you feel more satisfied for a longer period of time.  

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we specialize in providing 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. For a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, we have 29 memory care suites staffed by a team of compassionate dementia care specialists. We invite you to visit our website for more information, availability and pricing, and while you are there, please ask about our Move-in Specials.  

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/high-protein-breakfast?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Dec%2012%2007%3A49%3A22%20EST%202021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_term=Your%20Health

Memory Care at MorningStar of Beaverton

If mom or dad, or another loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you want the finest care for them. MorningStar of Beaverton is just such a place. As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, founded in 2003, we are committed to using best-practices including Montessori-based therapy techniques to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for our residents.

We understand the challenges a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s presents for the whole family and believe it to be an honor and a calling to help. Our approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  

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

Moving a parent into a memory care community is often a difficult decision to make. However, once a family chooses MorningStar, we are there every step of the way to walk your loved one through the transition. Our first step is to get to know all we can about the individual such as their background, talents and personal preferences by using a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized service plan in accordance with the family. 

Along with memory care, MorningStar of Beaverton offers assisted living as well as short-term stays (30 days or less) for those times when a senior’s regular caregiver needs a vacation or when recovering from surgery or an illness. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Did You Have Breakfast this Morning?

Growing up most of our mothers told us it wasn’t healthy to skip breakfast. While we listened, many of us still went off to school without eating anything. Based on current research, it turns out our mother’s advice was right again, and eating breakfast is good for us for several reasons. 

Registered Dietician Erin Palinski-Wade explains when we eat a healthy breakfast upon rising in the morning; it helps regulate our appetite for the rest of the day. If we break our nightly fast with a good meal, we are less likely to indulge in sugary or fat-laden food later on in the morning. A healthy breakfast also helps to prevent blood sugar highs and lows and Palinski-Wade says this is important for diabetics as well as the rest of us. 

While many breakfast foods such as cereal, baked goods, and granola bars are high in sugar and refined grains, experts say we should refuel our body each morning with protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. Protein makes us feel fuller and keeps us from snacking later on unhealthy foods. Eggs, yogurt, sausage, and peanut butter spread on whole wheat toast are good sources of protein. Fiber helps our digestive system work well and is found in oatmeal and whole grain cereals. Many meals can be partly prepared the night before to make your morning routine easier.   

At MorningStar of Beaverton, a senior living community west of Portland, we provide a lifestyle that focuses on wellness, comfort and community. Assisted living residents receive a whole range of services and amenities including beautifully prepared, nutritious meals served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room. Other services include 24/7 care managers, certified medication care managers, scheduled health & wellness evaluations, CPR-trained team members on every shift, access to a licensed nurse and more. We also provide memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/does-eating-breakfast-help-you-lose-weight

Healthy Gift Ideas for Now and Later

We all want our loved ones to lead long,healthy lives so why not include some healthy gift ideas on your holiday list. If you have already bought something, fitness experts and nutritionists say to keep it in mind for future birthdays and other gift-giving opportunities. 

One suggestion is to buy a loved one a fitness watch. The marketplace has a wide assortment of watches as well as sensor devices to measure your daily footsteps and help keep you moving. Moreover they come in many price points and offer a variety of features. 

Research shows measuring your daily activity improves your fitness level as one 2009 study published in the BMC Public Health journal reports. For participants given pedometers, their daily step count increased by 36 percent over 12 weeks. Experts say it was enough to significantly lower their blood pressure. For the other study participants not using a pedometer, their activity level didn’t change. Ted Vickey, an American Council on Exercise board member and former executive director of the White House Athletic Center under the Clinton and Bush administrations says these devices have been a game changer in the fight against obesity. 

Another healthy gift idea is a massage gun. Known as a self-myofascial release tool or SMR, they help overworked muscles recover and heal. Foam rollers additionally provide much of the same benefit at a much lower price point. However experts caution before treating an injury or other medical problems including bone fractures, blood clotting issues, sensory deficits or wounds need to consult with their physician or a licensed physical therapist. 

Other healthy gift ideas include an electric kettle with a selection of antioxidants teas. As we know sleep is important to our overall well being, how about a sound machine to help your loved one get a more restful night’s sleep? Nutritionists tout an air fryer is a good gift as it can cook almost anything quicker and easier and uses a lot less fat. 

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community has a reputation for excellence–and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Our team knows that the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing with others our gifts and talents, time and energy. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s finest independent living, assisted living, and memory care. 

Source: /health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2014/05/08/making-the-most-of-your-fitbit

health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/10-healthy-holiday-gift-ideas?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Dec%2005%2007:49:18%20EST%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

Just How Affordable is Senior Living?

Are you a 55+ senior who looks forward to your golden years, and love the idea of relinquishing the daily chores required with maintaining a home? Communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge are designed to give you just such a lifestyle. Not only do you have peace of mind knowing you don’t need to worry about lawn upkeep and frustrating home repairs but just sit back and enjoy a beautiful well-maintained home and a broader community of friends.  

Every aspect of the Golden Ridge community is tailored to the needs of seniors including our location in Peoria (near the Cardinal’s stadium), which offers easy access to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation. Our 8.8 acre campus includes a main building for assisted living and memory care residents. To accommodate the most discerning seniors, our 65 assisted living suites offer a choice of floor plans including studios, and one-bedroom, one-bath; two-bedroom, one-bath, and two-bedroom, 1 ½ bath. 

If you are an active senior ready for your next adventure, we suggest you ask about our 38 independent living “Casitas” (quadruplexes with attached garages) tucked into their own private neighborhood. Casitas are leased month-to-month and offer an incomparable value with predictable monthly budgeting as your expenses including homeowner’s insurance and property taxes are controlled through our bundled Monthly Rental Fee. 

All assisted living and independent living residents can take part in community programs and activities, join us for sponsored outings, and have access to the many amenities within our main building. These include all-day, restaurant-style dining; a saline swimming pool with hot tub; salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures; bistro/bar; fitness centers; chapel/theater and more. Beautiful outdoor dining patios, courtyards and reserved underground parking provide relaxation, comfort and convenience. 

We look forward to hearing from you and would love to tell you about our Move-in Specials. Please visit MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s website for more.  

Bruising in the Elderly

As we age, many seniors discover new bruises on their body but have no memory of how they got there. The Medical News Today (MNT) explains this may be the result of the skin thinning and blood vessels weakening and/or that some people are just more prone to bruising. It can also run in families. Being a frequent, extreme bruiser includes having many bruises without remembering their cause; regularly developing bruises that take many weeks to heal and bleeding for longer than 10 minutes following an injury.

Excessive bruising and bleeding can be from medications, many of which seniors routinely take. These include drugs like warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and aspirin. Doctors say even certain herbal remedies such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, large quantities of garlic, ginger, and willow bark can increase the risk of bleeding or cause a change to blood vessels. The same is true for drugs like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids of which one example is prednisone.  

MNT reports liver disease is also associated with excessive bruising. “As the disease progresses, the liver may stop producing the proteins that help the blood clot. As a result, a person may experience excessive bleeding and easy bruising.” Other blood disorders and diseases such as hemophilia, senile purpura, or even vitamin deficiencies can include bruising as a symptom. Experts say consult your healthcare provider if you suddenly begin bruising more easily, have symptoms such as yellow skin, fever and low energy, taking medication and begin bruising, or getting painful bruises that are slow to heal. 

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community offers 65 private suites for assisted living, and another 38 Casitas for independent living tucked into their own private neighborhood within our beautiful 8.8 acre campus. Our Reflections wing provides 35 secure suites devoted entirely to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We are pet friendly and invite you to visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area. Also be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325525#causes

Feeling Run Down and Out of Energy?

As we age, too many seniors find themselves experiencing a lack of energy and feel they cannot do many of the things they used to do. Experts say we can help keep a bounce in our step with a comprehensive approach to our healthcare that includes managing our diet, exercise and sleep. 

The first step is to take a look at our diet. Is it varied and contains fresh vegetables, whole grains and fruits? Studies show as we grow older, our body’s ability to turn food into energy slows down, but making good food choices can help keep our energy up and to stay fit. Blood sugar levels play a big role in staying healthy and sticking to low-glycemic foods such as beans, non-starchy vegetables, nuts and whole-grains will keep blood sugar in balance. High glycemic foods like white rice, white bread, and sugary drinks can spike blood sugar and cause brief energy jolts with big dips that leave you feeling drained. 

Exercise is another way to get more energy; however, consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine. Experts say the more active we are, the more energy we will feel; and if you are an older adult with health issues, you may need to be creative. They recommend looking into senior centers or going online for classes tailored to seniors’ needs. Remember swimming, walking and biking may be easier than some of the more competitive sports you played in your younger days. 

Sleep is the last step to becoming a better you. Doctors recommend around seven hours a night for most people. If you have problems getting a good night’s sleep, avoid coffee after mid-day, don’t drink alcohol right before bedtime and turn off your smart tablet, phone and TV a couple of hours before bed. If you still have problems, talk to your doctor.   

MorningStar of Arvada offers 112 contemporary suites for independent living and assisted living that are purpose-built for seniors in both form and function. Each is designed with sleek fixtures, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, mini blinds, and other modern amenities. All that’s missing are your furnishings and treasures, and as we are pet friendly, you won’t have to leave behind your beloved, furry family member. If you need memory care Arvada, CO families can rely on, you have found it. Please visit our website for more information. 

webmd.com/healthy-aging/guide/tips-more-energy#1

The Importance of Weight Loss to Managing Diabetes

The Medical News Today (MNT), an online medical journal, writes about the link between weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes. They note there have been discrepancies with various studies throughout the years in determining the best diet for diabetics and the role maintaining a healthy weight plays in treating the disease. 

Agreeing on the most effective way to treat diabetes is important as the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reports 1 in 10 adults are living with diabetes; and type 2 diabetes accounts for more than 90% of cases. By 2045, experts estimate 784 million people worldwide will be diabetic.

While doctors have known losing weight is good for diabetics, there has been mixed success with a number of popular diet plans. This has added to doctors’ confusion as to what diet to prescribe for their patients. 

The MNT article reports on a team of international researchers who examined earlier studies that focused on various diets believed to be good for diabetics. Led by Prof. Michael Lean of the University of Glasgow in the UK, he states, “Our aim was to find the most effective dietary approach for losing weight, maintaining weight loss, and achieving remission from type 2 diabetes.” 

Their results showed “weight management programs that included very low energy diets and formula meal replacements provided greater weight losses than conventional low energy diets.” Formula meal replacements are low-calorie beverages (shake) or bars loaded with protein, carbohydrate and fat, fortified with vitamins and minerals. Low energy diets include foods from both plant and animal sources high in protein but low in fat and calories.*

*If you are diabetic, consult with your healthcare provider before changing your diet.

The MorningStar of Arvada’s all-inclusive community offers independent living and assisted living with all of the amenities, services and enrichment programs residents need for carefree retirement years. For individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diseases, we provide 29 secure suites devoted to their specialized care. Our community is situated on 1.5 acres and encircled by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada Reservoir. Please visit our website for pricing and availability on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO. Ask about our Special offer: Memory Care Studios - $6000/MO ALL INCLUSIVE RENT & CARE.   

Source:  

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/managing-weight-in-diabetes-which-diets-are-most-effective

Exercise to Lower Your Risk of Falls and Injuries

If you are a senior who is having difficulty turning your neck to look behind you when driving, having problems getting up from a low chair or difficulty picking something up from the floor, you may find adding stretches to your routine can really improve these types of motions. Stretching exercises also help seniors improve flexibility and balance, both of which lower a person’s risk of falls and injuries. Experts explain stretching gives seniors a better range of movement in their joints, helps improve posture, increases circulation and releases muscle tension and soreness. 

The Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults. It found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.” Along with the favorable benefits stretching provides, it can be done anywhere and does not require any special equipment. However, before beginning any new exercise routine, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level and the type of stretches most appropriate for you. 

Another thing to remember is it is important to warm up before stretching. Experts say it can be doing something as simple as a walk around the block. Additionally, they warn not to stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension. A stretch can typically be held for 30 seconds, but do not bounce when you stretch. 

MorningStar of Beaverton is a senior living community providing 66 private assisted living suites and another 38 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

We proudly provide the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer.

Depression and Seniors

Feeling blue every once in a while is normal but when those kinds of feelings last for weeks or months, it is a more serious problem. Depression can sap the joy from life and cause a sense of hopelessness, sadness, and lack of motivation and energy.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains risk factors for depression include medical conditions like stroke or cancer; genetics (people with a family history are at higher risk), stress, sleep problems and addiction or alcoholism. Also at risk are individuals with functional disabilities that limit their activities as well as people who don’t get enough exercise. 

Studies have linked depression to social isolation and loneliness, which is in itself a problem for many older adults. While COVID-19 has focused more attention to the issue, the NIA says many elderly adults suffered from loneliness before the pandemic.  

If you are wondering if a loved one is depressed, experts say depression can look different in the elderly. For example, sadness is not the main symptom. It may be more of a feeling of numbness along with a lack of interest in activities they used to take joy in. Moreover the NIA cautions that many seniors are not willing to talk about their feelings.  

If you see worrying signs, encourage the person to visit their healthcare provider. If they need the support, go with them to their doctor visits and support groups. Also help them stick to their treatment plan and reach out for further help if needed. The NIA warns if left untreated, serious depression may lead to death by suicide.

The MorningStar of Arvada community provides senior living that starts with a unique mission of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Our residents enjoy a wide range of amenities, care services and wellness programs and activities that allow them to participate as much as they desire. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.  

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults

Memory Care at MorningStar of Beaverton

MorningStar of Beaverton offers 66 private assisted living suites along with 38 secure memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our care services are extensive and we provide a wide range of amenities, wellness programs and activities. 

MorningStar’s compassionate memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life and features safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of meaningful activities including arts and crafts, listening or dancing to music, physical exercise, special celebrations and other events. 

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as holistic solutions to challenging behaviors.  Additionally, our devoted team feels privileged to serve, and understands every person deserves to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. including MorningStar of Happy Valley and MorningStar of Hillsboro, which is scheduled to open in early 2022. Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Expert Weigh-in on How to Tell the Difference between the Flu or a Cold

Now that we are fully in flu season, you may find yourself wondering if you have a common cold or the flu. Experts say there are some clues to help ensure you get the right treatment. 

While certain symptoms overlap, there are some differences. In both cases you may experience a cough, sore throat and a stuffy, running nose. However if you have a fever, chills, and body and muscle aches, it is probably the flu. Bad headaches and fatigue are another indication you most likely have more than the common cold. Children with the flu may also suffer from vomiting and diarrhea.  

As the flu can have more serious consequences, another way to determine if it is the flu or a cold is how the illness starts. The flu hits a person hard and fast, while a cold starts out much slower. For example, a person may start out a day feeling just fine but from the time they leave work to when they get home, they may become feverish with muscle aches throughout their body.  

Doctors stress the importance of getting an annual flu shot as every year adults and children are hospitalized with the flu. Complications include pneumonia and bacterial infections, with some of the worst cases leading to death. Both the flu and colds are spread through droplets spraying into the air when someone coughs, and can spread from contaminated surfaces that come into contact with the droplets. Most flu vaccines are free or low cost with insurance; however, if you are uninsured or underinsured there are options available.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an array of amenities and services. Our senior living options include assisted living and independent living along with memory care. We are dedicated to creating a true home for carefree retirement years. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our home, our services and our company, and ask about our Move-in Specials.

A Senior Community with a Passion for Serving Seniors

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community’s mission is to provide all the services needed to support and enhance residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. As one of the top assisted living communities in the Phoenix area, residents are provided with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations. Services also include scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and more. Wellness programs and activities are designed to keep residents as busy as they like.  

It isn’t just our belief that these kinds of services, amenities and programs provide a higher quality of life for many older adults, but in fact, a number of studies have shown this to be true. Research finds “seniors in retirement communities may be living longer and stronger, meaning they become frail less quickly than those who remain in their own home. Residents of independent retirement communities enjoy better health and could potentially live longer because of it.” Moreover, several studies report that because of the support services, older adults with multiple chronic health problems in senior living communities are less likely to require high levels of hospitalization as compared to their peers who live alone.  

Experts believe the enhanced health of those living in retirement communities may also have something to do with the stress-free lifestyle that includes no longer needing to maintain a home. Meals are another part of MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s luxury amenities, so residents just relax and enjoy being served restaurant-style in our community dining room. To help you stay in your best shape, we provide exercise classes, a saline swimming pool with hot tub, and fitness center.

Please visit the MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.” When you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or set up a tour. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s trusted senior living options include independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Peoria. Please ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: 

bethesdahealth.org/blog/2020/10/08/seniors-live-longer-happier-retirement-communities/

How MCI is Diagnosed

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people aged 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems, or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s they often are not aware of their memory loss. 

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s or normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.” 

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies. 

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. Experts say quickly progressing memory problems are most likely another issue as true dementia progresses pretty slowly. 

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer 38 Casitas (quadruplexes with attached garages) for independent living and another 65 suites for assisted living. Our Reflections’ wing provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted seniors living in Peoria, AZ.