Ageism in Healthcare is a Growing Concern

How we decide to speak to seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's greatly impacts their quality of life. Infantilizing communication is sadly a too-common communication style used by family members, strangers, and even health care specialists. Elderspeak is a term that refers to the infantilizing communication used to speak to older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's disease or another kind of dementia. Elderspeak is a form of ageism and is a cause for concern in healthcare.

Elderspeak elicits a tone of incompetence towards a memory care patient. Baby talk, simplistic grammar and vocabulary, slowed speech, and elevated pitch and volume are some examples of elderspeak. While referring to a patient with dementia as a “good girl” for completing a meal may feel empathetic and encouraging, this sort of treatment actually reduces the agency of the person. This language derives from stereotypical views of older adults as less competent than younger adults and projects negative stereotypes on elders.

Ageism greatly impacts dementia care and can even reverse progress. Elderspeak can make dementia patients resistant to care. Research from the NIH documents that elderspeak is perceived as patronizing by seniors struggling with memory loss and can precipitate communication breakdown as well as exacerbate problem behaviors for cognitively impaired elders. 

The independence of seniors should be of utmost importance in senior living and memory care. MorningStar of Beaverton is proud of its responsive and compassionate care team, which is the very heart of MorningStar's care philosophy. They recognize that as a memory care facility, success is hiring the right team of people who are committed to the goal of serving with love, kindness, honesty, and humility. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton proudly brings the finest assisted living Beaverton, Oregon has to offer. They provide carefree retirement years and create a true home for residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. While MorningStar may be new to Beaverton, their team is highly experienced in serving seniors, and understanding how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care and senior living in Beaverton, Oregon. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Oregon.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “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. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Beaverton, Oregon.

Senior Living Offers Carefree Retirement Years

Unlike years ago, when elderly people wanted to live in their own homes for as long as possible, many of today’s seniors see a real advantage to senior housing and love the idea of a more active community life. In fact, studies indicate community living provides a higher quality of life for many seniors and may contribute to a longer life and better physical and emotional health than those who remain in their own homes. 

Experts say this may be due to the fact senior living offers a less stressful, carefree environment in which seniors no longer have the responsibilities and unexpected expenses of home repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a retirement community is built around the needs of its residents as it is designed to be safely navigable for older folks as well as offers the benefit of others being around in case the need arises such as in the event of a fall. 

Another reason a senior living community such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge enhances quality of life for residents is the five-star dining experience for better nutritional health. Additionally, wellness programs, social activities and special events mean there is something to look forward to each day. Whether taking a yoga class, playing a challenging game of trivia, relaxing with friends on the patio or sharing a drink during happy hour, you will be engaged, stimulated and have a sense of purpose.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge strives to be the best independent and assisted living in the Peoria area, and we take the well-being of our residents very seriously.  Our all-inclusive community offers all the amenities, services and enrichment programs to give you the best retirement years possible. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, we have 35 secure suites devoted to individualized, compassionate memory care. Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Exercises That Reduce the Risk of Falls

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than a third of people over the age of 65 suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department.  In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death.  To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.

Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength.  Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed.  The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do.  

One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk.  This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.  Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides.  Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance.  Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds.  Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps.   

Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides.  Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds.  Now do the same with the other side.  Do each side 3 times.  

At the MorningStar senior living communities we understand the importance of our residents living life to the fullest.  This is why MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a Life Enrichment program that focuses on creative ways to stay physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually active.  Please see our website for more information about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living homes, and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Source: healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try

The Facts About Parkinson’s Disease

We often come to think something is true if we hear it stated as if it is a fact. Doctors say this happens in medicine more frequently than we realize. One such disease with lots of misinformation surrounding it is Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder affecting predominantly dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. Symptoms develop slowly over years and may include tremors (mainly at rest); bradykinesia (slowness of movement); limb rigidity; and gait and balance problems. 

One common misconception regarding PD is it only affects a person’s movement. Doctors explain this is untrue as symptoms can also include: cognitive impairment or dementia, depression and anxiety, sleep dysfunction, pain, apathy, sexual dysfunction, and bowel incontinence. Another thing many people believe is levodopa, one of the most effective treatments for PD, is only effective for a certain amount of time. However, experts say it is not the drug that becomes less potent but the fact that the “key enzyme that converts levodopa to dopamine (aromatic acid decarboxylase or AADC) is predominantly found in the dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra, which are lost during progression of the disease.” 

People should know tremors are not always a symptom of PD, and that some people with PD never get them. In terms of the trajectory of the disease, it varies with individuals. Also, research suggests staying physically active can slow progression and reduce symptoms. 

Although the cause of the disease is not known nor is there a cure for it, there are treatments used to improve symptoms and allow people to have a good quality of life. While current therapies don’t slow or stop PD, researchers are working to identify biomarkers to enable earlier detection and hope to find better treatments. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar Senior Living takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

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

Research Suggests the MIND Diet Reduces the Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Several studies are showing links to our dietary habits and the risk for Alzheimer’s disease.  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 MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a senior living community in Peoria, AZ, our many services and amenities include five-star dining.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest, healthiest ingredients.  In addition, our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage. 

Our beautiful home offers active seniors 38 Casitas with attached garages for independent living.  For those needing help with the activities of daily living we provide 65 suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has 35 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

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

Learn More About MorningStar at Golden Ridge

MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a beautiful senior community on an 8.8-acre campus in Peoria, AZ, has a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays.   We want prospective residents and their 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.  

Our 38 Casitas for independent living offer 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 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 families trust with 35 secure suites dedicated to caring for our most tender residents.  To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained on the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care.  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.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s first-class amenities start with Executive Chef inspired meals which are served all-day in our beautiful full-service dining room.  We also have a theater, bistro bar, fitness centers, and a saline swimming pool with a hot tub.  In addition, we have a salon, library and private dining rooms for intimate dinners.  Amidst our beautiful grounds we have outdoor dining patios, and our memory care residents have a secure courtyard where they too can safely enjoy the outdoors.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Keep Your Brain Sharp with Smart Foods

Many specialists studying memory loss, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s advocate for an array of diets and supplements to reduce Dementia symptoms or get rid of them all together. So far, there is no evidence that eating or avoiding a specific food can prevent Alzheimer’s disease or age-related cognitive decline. However, caring for your brain health through your diet is still important to take into consideration. Eating healthy foods promotes not only a healthy brain but whole-body health as well. When a family member or loved one is struggling with Alzheimer’s, composing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is one major way to support a healthy brain and a healthy body.

It may surprise you to know, but our brains are made up largely of fat. Therefore, our brains utilize fats to work properly. However, the type of fat we ingest is important to note. Natural fats, omegas, and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) are proven to nourish, protect and enhance the performance of our brain’s cells. These healthy fats are found in salmon, olive oil, avocados, and most nuts. Not only do these support your brain’s health, but fats such as these, help you stay full and satisfied for longer. 

Enjoying a whole food diet is one way to promote overall health. Incorporating green leafy vegetables such as kale, broccoli, or spinach with healthy fats supports your brain with vitamin K, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants. If you’re not a huge fan of vegetables, fruits are beneficial and important as well. Blueberries and other dark-colored berries deliver anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, are also high in fiber and calcium. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, our senior living dining experience is inspired by the belief that diet is the centerpiece of personal wellness. Through proper diets and healthy choices, food is a healing medicine unlike any other. BrainWise is a lifestyle at MorningStar by which we prioritize the use of ingredients known to support brain health. The charge of MorningStar’s culinary team is not just to create flavors to delight the eye and palate, but to leverage the phenomenal benefits of these aptly named “Super Foods,” items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens

If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia, please contact MorningStar of Arvada to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care or memory care in Arvada, Co. Unlike many memory care communities, our home was designed to promote independence and to give residents the freedom to safely explore their spacious surroundings. Our staff is trained to give loving, experienced care from the onset of the disease to its advanced stages.

MorningStar of Arvada proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Arvada, Colorado has to offer.

How Alzheimer’s Affects the Brain

Alzheimer’s disease destroys communication between neurons in the brain, resulting in cell death that leads to a loss of brain function. A Dementia-free brain contains billions of neurons that easily transfer information between chemical signals that tell different muscles and organs of the body how to perform correctly. Damage is widespread with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and can be challenging to navigate, especially if a family member or loved one is struggling with Alzheimer’s or another Dementia-related disease. MorningStar of Arvada serves those with Alzheimer’s and other Dementia-related diseases in need of memory care in Arvada, Colorado. 

As we age, a healthy human brain shrinks to a slight degree but with Alzheimer’s, the neurons stop functioning and die. When this happens, memory is often the first to be impacted by neuron death. If you notice a loved one having difficulty remembering important dates, places, or people, it may be time to have them checked for Dementia or Alzheimer’s. With Dementia, it is more than experiencing a little forgetfulness. It may appear as though your loved one is unable to function as they previously would and may need more help around the house or in their personal lives. 

Later, Alzheimer’s affects areas of the brain that deal with language, reasoning, and behavior. You may notice your loved one struggling with speech or pronunciation. They may be participating in risky or alarming behaviors and may appear more aggressive and frustrated. Eventually, Alzheimer’s damages other parts of the brain until the individual loses their ability to function independently. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or Dementia and the disease is fatal. The best way to navigate a diagnosis such as Alzheimer’s is to catch it early on and take the precautionary steps to keep your loved one safe and fulfilled. Facilities that can offer memory care and specialize in handling an Alzheimer’s diagnosis are often sought out as they may have more advanced tools to keep your loved one safe. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, we feel it is our privilege and calling to serve those with Alzheimer’s and other Dementia-related diseases. Using holistic methods under our mantra of a “Lavender Sky” we work to “enter, embrace, and explore” the world of Dementia. Regardless of the extent of the memory loss, we know the essence of the person remains, and our job is to connect with and nurture that essence as we put our energies toward finding ways to celebrate life.

If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia, please contact MorningStar of Arvada to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care or memory care in Arvada, Co. Unlike many memory care communities, our home was designed to promote independence and to give residents the freedom to safely explore their spacious surroundings. Our staff is trained to give loving, experienced care from the onset of the disease to its advanced stages.

MorningStar of Arvada proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Arvada, Colorado has to offer.

Ways Communication with Your Loved One Changes After a Dementia Diagnosis

Dementia is a progressive illness that diminishes a person’s memory over time and will affect how they understand everyday facts, such as people’s names, important dates, and specific places. If your loved one is struggling with a dementia diagnosis or other memory loss illnesses, the way in which they communicate with you and with the world may feel confusing and frustrating. For a person with dementia, their ability to process information changes and response time will often be weak or delayed. While communication with a loved one struggling with memory loss or dementia is difficult, it is not impossible. MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Beaverton offers some examples of how to better communicate and maintain a relationship with your loved one struggling with memory loss. 

It is devastating to watch someone you love struggle with dementia. It may feel as though you are losing that person entirely. At MorningStar of Beaverton, consistently working and communicating with an elder struggling with memory loss has been shown to be beneficial, even if the communication method appears different. Often, the communication will be nonverbal, or incoherent. It is important to remain patient, calm, and empathetic during these moments. Maintain eye contact and pay attention to changes in body language. Body language and physical contact may become stronger and more apparent for a person with dementia. Holding your loved one’s hand or giving a gentle pat is encouraging and maintains the bond between you.

Your loved one’s input and independence are important as a senior dealing with dementia. However, you may not be able to ask for it as much as you were once used to. When routing the world of dementia, try not to ask your loved one too many questions. Questions may confuse someone struggling with memory loss and they can become frustrated. Instead, try to focus on the present when you are with them. Comment on the surroundings around them that they can notice immediately. Things such as taste, feel, smell, and sound are great things to comment on when trying to understand your loved one’s input or comfortability. Remaining in the present will aid in easy communication between you and your loved one in assisted living or memory care. 

To learn more about MorningStar Assisted Living Facility and Memory Care of Beaverton and the other specialized care regarding Dementia care in Beaverton, OR please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other memory care facilities in Oregon.   

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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon has to offer.

How to Better Understand Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Many people have a difficult time deciphering the differences between Alzheimer’s and Dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association defines dementia as an umbrella term for a severe decline in mental ability that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s, on the other hand, is a specific disease and the most common cause of Dementia. Many different types of Dementia exist, and it is important to note that Dementia is not a normal part of aging. If you are concerned that a family member or loved one may be struggling with Dementia or Alzheimer’s, MorningStar of Arvada can help you better understand memory care in Arvada, Colorado. 

As stated by The Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that is caused by complex brain changes following cell damage. The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first. Simply being forgetful is not enough for a doctor to make the diagnosis of dementia, instead, they will run a series of tests to determine if there is other evidence of cognition problems.

In some cases of Alzheimer’s, your loved one may exhibit poor judgment and trouble performing common household chores, paying bills, or preparing food.  They may have problems with organizing thoughts, and repeatedly ask the same questions or relate the same stories.  A person with dementia can get lost or confused even in a familiar environment. As Alzheimer’s advances, symptoms get more severe and include disorientation, confusion, and behavior changes. Eventually, speaking, swallowing, and a body’s physical movement become difficult or lost altogether.  

At MorningStar of Arvada, we feel it is our privilege as well as our calling to serve those with Alzheimer’s and other Dementia-related diseases. Using holistic methods under our mantra of a “Lavender Sky” we work to “enter, embrace, and explore” the world of Dementia. Regardless of the extent of the memory loss, we know the essence of the person remains, and our job is to connect with and nurture that essence as we put our energies toward finding ways to celebrate life.

If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia, please contact MorningStar of Arvada to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care or senior living in Arvada, Co. Unlike many memory care communities, our home was designed to promote independence and to give residents the freedom to safely explore their spacious surroundings. Our staff is trained to give loving, experienced care from the onset of the disease to its advanced stages.

MorningStar of Arvada proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Arvada, Colorado has to offer.

MorningStar Offers a Holistic Approach to Memory Care

As of 2022, there is no cure for dementia. Every day MorningStar of Beaverton is exploring new ways to respond to the diagnosis of dementia with holistic care and tenderness in search of breakthroughs and a greater understanding of the disease. With a holistic approach to memory care, it’s crucial to create a relationship with the person and body in front of you, not just the disease. Showing tenderness, attentiveness, and value to a senior struggling with dementia while in memory care maximizes the well-being of our residents through enhanced health, independence, and overall happiness. 

MorningStar Senior Living believes in the idea that we must “enter, embrace, and explore” memory loss. Through holistic health care, we are utilizing an empathetic way to understand our residents and the reality of dementia. It is important to get to know each of our memory care residents on a personal level and understand who they are presently, as well as who they were and the interests and passions they carried. While a dementia diagnosis is heartbreaking for families and our loved ones, it is important to not fall blindsided by the diagnosis and lose sight of the individual who is struggling. Instead, we encourage and actively teach our memory care providers to willingly enter into the territory of dementia. 

Our holistic approach, “Lavender Sky,” is MorningStar of Beaverton’s fundamental standard in specialized memory care for seniors struggling with dementia and memory loss. As a community, we help to remove the stigma surrounding memory loss and dementia by creating a holistic treatment that is individualized and highly customizable for each of our residents dealing with memory impairment.  

To better understand memory loss, we must embrace it. With a Dementia diagnosis, how your loved one communicates with you and the world around them will begin to change. Under a “Lavender Sky,” we practice empathy and patience towards the individuals in our care and work to comfort their mind, body, and spirit. When we better understand our residents, we can better understand the ways in which dementia and memory loss portrays itself. 

To learn more about MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Beaverton and the other specialized care regarding Dementia care in Beaverton, OR please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other memory care facilities in Oregon.   

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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon has to offer.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Dementia Care Under a “Lavender Sky”

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge provides 35 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 at Golden Ridge, 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 in Peoria, AZ.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Working in Senior Living is a Rewarding Career Choice

At the Phoenix area MorningStar senior living communities, we are proud of the fact that when we provide the support and care seniors need, it helps them to lead fuller lives and retain their dignity and independence in the latter stages of life.  We know that serving seniors is a rewarding career choice as it allows us to make a real difference in their quality of life and can turn a resident’s difficult day into one of laughter and fun. 

At MorningStar, we consider all roles to be essential to the smooth operation of our homes and to the wellbeing of our residents.  This is why each is designed to be an exceptional environment for residents as well as an atmosphere that allows the staff to flourish.  The career opportunities at MorningStar are varied as they must provide for our residents’ comfort, safety and wellbeing.   Current openings in Greater Phoenix include Caregiver, Maintenance Assistant, Concierge, Dining Room Server, Housekeeper and more.  Also, as a 24/7 operation, jobs may be full or part-time and include weekend, night and evening shifts.  

Along with a generous compensation and insurance benefit package, MorningStar wants all our team members to be equipped with the knowledge required to do their jobs well and take pride in their work.  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).  This training enables our team to be the best at what they do, and do each job with confidence.

Communities in Greater Phoenix include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  Please visit MorningStar’s “Careers Here” page for a link to open positions.  Look at our job descriptions, use our convenient online application and view the video “Work That Matters. . .Find It Here.” As you will see, serving seniors can be a rewarding, enjoyable career!  

MorningStar Senior Living exemplifies the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to offer seniors lives of comfort, joy and wellness. Please visit our website and apply for a rewarding position (including caregiver jobs) in the Phoenix area.

Did You Sleep Well Last Night?

As more and more research shows, getting enough sleep each night is important for everything from better mental health to better physical health. Some studies have even reported findings of an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease in people who routinely have sleep problems.

If you are someone who has trouble getting to sleep or sleeping through the night, the US News & World Report published several tips from sleep experts to help reset your sleep clock and improve your sleep habits. They recommend beginning with reestablishing waking and bedtime rituals by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time. It may even be a good idea to eat meals at the same time. Your bedroom should be dark and use a light-blocking sleep mask if needed. Also, keep your bedroom a work free zone. Other recommendations include avoiding caffeine after noon, spending time outdoors during daylight hours, and exercising each day. 

Dr. Kannan Ramar, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a pulmonologist, critical care specialist and sleep medicine specialist at Mayo Clinic, and professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, says, “Pervasive worry is a major factor in sleep disruption.” He advises his patients to turn off the TV and your tablet one or two hours before bedtime. Stop drinking alcohol at least one or two hours before sleep and consider moderating your consumption. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is situated on a vibrant 8.8-acre campus with exceptional architecture and award-winning design.  Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors.  Our community offers 38 Casitas with attached garages for independent living.  In addition, we have 65 suites for assisted living and 35 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/sleep-reset-getting-your-sleep-back-to-normal 

A Move to a Senior Community May Improve Your Quality of Life

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 33% of women and 20% of men 65 years and older lived by themselves in 2020. Experts say living alone doesn’t necessarily mean an individual is lonely, but it often is the case. Not to mention, the pandemic certainly made matters worse with many seniors self-isolating from family and friends.   

Problems contributing to loneliness in seniors are that they no longer work outside the home and social circles begin to shrink with the passing of spouses or friends, and family members moving away. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) cites studies showing seniors who say they feel socially isolated and lonely are more at risk for health problems such as cognitive decline, depression, and heart disease associated with loneliness. 

For many seniors the answer is moving to a retirement community where they find comfort, wellbeing and security as well as companionship. The experts at AgingCare.com say one of the biggest advantages of senior living (aside from receiving necessary care) is that opportunities for socialization and fulfillment are available right outside a resident’s door. 

Independent living communities are ideal for active seniors who do not need care services but love the idea of built-in social and mental stimulation within a maintenance-free environment. They may offer amenities such as meal plans, housekeeping and transportation along with meaningful wellness programs. Assisted living is designed after the European model and provides a supportive, compassionate environment with the right amount of help seniors need to maintain their independence. 

The most supportive level of senior living is memory care. At communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we provide compassionate, professional memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 35 suites and uses therapeutic methods to calm and stimulate with purposeful activities. In addition, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas for independent living and 65 suites for assisted living. Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

The Benefits of Regular Exercise to Cognitive Health

We know exercise contributes to a person’s overall health and results in stronger muscles, a healthier heart and even a better night’s sleep. Now a neuroscientist is speaking up about the benefits exercise offers to our cognitive health. Wendy Suzuki, PhD, a neuroscientist and professor of Neural Science and Psychology in the Center for Neural Science at New York University, explains, “I’ve found that exercising is one of the most transformative things you can do to improve cognitive abilities, such as learning, thinking, memory, focus and reasoning — all of which can help you become smarter and live longer.”

Suzuki says each time we move our bodies’ beneficial neurotransmitters are released into the brain including dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and acetylcholine, which transmits signals from nerve cells to target cells. These target cells may be in muscles, glands, or other nerves and can affect our sleep cycles, moods and concentration including a decrease in feelings of depression and anxiety. Research has shown it only takes as little as 10 to 30 minutes of exercise per day to elevate mood. 

Another important study shows how exercise promotes neurogenesis (the birth of new brain cells) and improves the brain’s function. The longitudinal study out of Sweden spans 44-years, and reports “women who scored high on a fitness test in midlife were nearly 90 percent less likely than their moderately fit or unfit peers to develop dementia decades later.” Moreover, researchers say the fittest women held dementia at bay at least 10 years longer than their peers. So the next question is how much exercise do we need to get results? Suzuki says to try for 90 to 120 minutes a week. This can be broken down in daily increments or three to four sessions a week.     

MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a senior community in Peoria, AZ, offers a vibrant campus on which your retirement years can be carefree.  One of the many benefits of living at MorningStar is that we make it easy for residents to live a healthy lifestyle.  Our amenities include a saline swimming pool, fitness centers and exercise classes to keep our residents moving.  Please see our website to learn more about our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Golden Ridge, “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.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Sources: 

cnbc.com/2021/10/22/neuroscientist-shares-the-brain-health-benefits-of-exercise-and-how-much-she-does-a-week.html 

alzforum.org/news/research-news/44-year-study-ties-midlife-fitness-lower-dementia-risk

Stretching Can Increase Flexibility, Improve Balance and Relieve Pain

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”  

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do for their independence. If you are unable to get up from a chair or out of bed each morning, you will need assistance. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. 

For luxury senior living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge is sure to please.  Our community in Peoria, AZ provides residents with tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to help stay fit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. To learn more about our wide range of resort-style amenities and services, please visit our website.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Join the MorningStar Team in the Phoenix Area

Today many people aspire to find meaning in both their personal and professional lives by doing work that matters. They wish to make a difference in the lives of others and in the world around them; and are often surprised to discover the difference it makes in their own life. At MorningStar Senior Living we recognize servant-leadership as the key to true happiness and life satisfaction.  

Our senior living communities offer excellent career opportunities to those who have the virtues we seek – kindness, character and selflessness. We know these virtues contribute as much as does education and experience in helping us build a team that serves with distinction. If you live in or around Phoenix and feel you have what it takes to join our team, MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar of Fountain Hills and MorningStar at Golden Ridge look forward to welcoming you to our “family.”   

Our broad range of open positions means you will most likely find something that would be a perfect fit for your special skills, interests and unique talents. Once you are hired, you become an integral part of the MorningStar team regardless of your position and will have a path for advancement as we promote from within whenever possible.  Current openings in Phoenix include nurses, drivers, housekeepers, dining room servers and caregiver jobs.

Morningstar is happy to offer our team members 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.  

Our website has a Careers Here page listing all our employee benefits, current openings, detailed job descriptions, and how to apply including an online application. Our broader website introduces you to our communities, our history and philosophy, and explains the impact our Vision and Mission statements and core values have on creating a culture that offers service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar Senior Living exemplifies the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to offer seniors lives of comfort, joy and wellness. Please visit our website and apply for a rewarding position (including caregiver jobs) in the Phoenix area.

“Radiance” is the Brand Standard of Service and Memory Care at MorningStar Senior Living

When a loved one begins dealing with symptoms of Alzheimer's or other memory loss diseases, panic sets in to try to find empathic, safe, and trusted memory care for handling what feels like uncharted waters. There is a lot of pressure to find your loved one the care that they deserve, and rightfully so. Not only do you want them to be safe and healthy, but you also want them to be in a senior living environment that can specialize in their individual needs while continuing to enrich their lives with meaning and joy. 

Radiance, coined by MorningStar, is more than a customer service program. Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness that grows from a deep and sincere place within those that feel called to help others, like a beam of light. For this is how service is delivered at MorningStar: with warmth and sincerity and depth. This attribute is to be visibly apparent upon hiring and encourages a strong and devoted team that selflessly prioritizes the array of specialized memory care and other assisted needs of our residents.

The standards within our Radiance care are introduced to every team member upon hiring, regardless of their role within the MorningStare community. This means our holistic training and ethics are instilled in our employees ranging from chefs, salon specialists, and of course specialized care attendees. These standards are reiterated and strengthened every day in our daily Huddle where we go over our care necessities and daily goals. Having trusted team members that meet our standards of Radiance and enforce them daily is what makes staying at MorningStar a safe and happy senior living and memory care facility.

To learn more about Radiance and the other practices within our senior living and memory care specialties, please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have and our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon offers.  

MorningStar at 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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon has to offer.

Take a Look Into One of Alzheimer’s Association’s Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care

When the time comes to make a decision on where to place your loved one struggling with memory loss or Dementia, you should feel comfortable that your decision will keep your parent or grandparent safe, healthy, and happy. One way to earn the trust is by showcasing to a community how devoted and passionate a facility is in offering meaningful and effective memory care to its residents. 

MorningStar retirement facilities and their memory care specialty has been recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association as a “Recognized Leader in Dementia Care.” We are thrilled to be held in such high regard and owe this award to our hardworking and empathetic staff members that have felt drawn to memory care and awareness. 

MorningStar in Arvada CO has a unique approach to memory care. Our care details training that focuses on communication techniques, the research behind brain pathology, and ways in which to handle agitation in memory loss residents without the use of pharmaceuticals. Our memory care and supervision are available 24-hours a day on-site to our residents. There are also licensed nurses available at request or in the case more support is necessary. There are activities and programs that encourage the normalcy of daily life and everyday activities such as regular meal times, theater showings, and daily exercise. 

As specialists in memory care, we know the pain that is associated with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases and how hard it is for you as a loved one to carry the burden on your own. Regardless of the barrier within your loved ones' memory loss, we find it imperative to continue the communication and to now shy away from difficulties. We pride ourselves on being able to engage our memory care residents in a multitude of ways that enhance their overall health and happiness. 

To learn more about our specialization in memory care in Arvada, Colorado please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have and our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other memory care facilities in Arvada, Colorado.  
MorningStar at Arvada 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 for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Arvada, Colorado has to offer