Dining at MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge

April 01, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, MorningStar at Golden Ridge was designed from the ground up to meet the needs of our residents. Each aspect of our home is intended to allow residents to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest with an array of luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities.

Our gracious living extends to our dining service that offers an upscale experience inspired by the belief that dining is the centerpiece of personal wellness. It is through a proper diet of healthy choices that food becomes a healing medicine unlike any other. When it is enjoyed as a community, it helps to bond us as a family. MorningStar’s trained Executive Chef has been instructed in culinary skills and menu creation, along with the soft skills of being a servant-leader. As we recognize today’s seniors have more sophisticated culinary tastes, we balance a blend of world foods and flavors with nostalgic comfort foods.

One of our special interests is a focus on developing delicious meals around foods known to support brain health. Containing a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, they include “Super Foods” like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens. So, our meals not only delight the eye and palate, but contain the ingredients to help recharge our bodies.

Along with our delicious meals tailored to the changing health needs of older adults, we offer beautiful gathering areas for residents to enjoy spending time with friends and family. Other amenities include a bistro bar, fitness centers, saline swimming pool with hot tub, theater/chapel, and scheduled transportation. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s independent living, assisted living or memory care in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us to discover why MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a great place to call home.

The Benefits of All-Inclusive Memory Care

April 01, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

There is a lot of planning that goes into setting up a retirement goal. Many seniors know what they would like to do in their retirement, such as moving into a senior living community, traveling, selling their home, studying a new skill, saving for the future, the list goes on. But what if there is something that doesn’t go as planned? Memory impairment diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia cannot be detected before they begin. A memory loss diagnosis impedes a senior’s retirement plan if not thoughtfully considered. If the time comes when memor y care is necessary, it’s important to know your options.

All-inclusive memory care provides a range of benefits, services, and amenities to a senior experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some of the major benefits include:

Better Financial Rewards. Senior care can be expensive, especially if you are constantly needing to move your loved one around to different facilities regularly. All-inclusive memory care is a more affordable option for families looking for specialized memory care with staff trained in memory care approaches. All inclusive memory care includes a flat rate that includes housing, meals, activities, amenities, and more.

More Access to Amenities and Activities. While caregiving for a loved one is empowering, it can also be difficult to provide a loved one with all the activities and amenities you want to give them. Holistic therapies, group activities, parties, events, and clubs are regular activities at all inclusive memory care communities for seniors. This takes the stress of caregivers to plan, pay, and make room for providing activities in their own homes.

Socialization. Without regular socialization, seniors can experience depression and other health concerns. Memory care communities provide seniors with ample opportunities to socialize with staff, family, and other residents. Even if communication and mobility is impaired, seniors are still encouraged to participate in the events happening within the community.

Find Holistic Memory Care and Senior Living Near You

Contact us today If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security of residing in an independent living community. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Beaverton, OR, take care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “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.

Better Communication and Alzheimer’s: How-To

April 01, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is difficult to navigate. This is especially true if you have no experience with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases. You may worry about how your relationship with your now-diagnosed loved one will look or change over time. You may already have noticed how your communication with your loved one has changed. It can be extremely frustrating to adjust your communication methods, however, you may find utilizing these communication skills from highly knowledgeable memory care communities that specialize in dementia treatment beneficial moving forward with your specialized memory care approaches.

How Dementia Affects Communication

Over time, Alzheimer’s and dementia will gradually lessen an individual’s ability to communicate in traditional ways. This is because dementia causes nerve cell failure in the brain, meaning an individual with dementia will have difficulty speaking or understanding speech from someone else. Not only this, but dementia can cause difficulty with social skills, and may not understand appropriate responses or reactions to situations. All of this makes communicating with a loved one who has dementia very difficult. Adjusting your communication strategies for better Alzheimer’s communication may include:

Staying patient & flexible. Perhaps one of the most important pieces of advice we can give to a family wanting to communicate with their loved one is to stay patient, calm, understanding, and flexible. It’s defeating sometimes to deal with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, but patience will help your loved one to feel more comfortable with you, allowing them to want to open up and try to communicate more often.
Avoid complex language. When communicating with someone with dementia, it’s best to stay away from using complex language or phrases. Metaphors, satire, and sarcasm can cause confusion and frustration.
Refrain from asking difficult questions. Questions tend to confuse seniors with Alzheimer’s and can make the communication process more tedious and overwhelming. Try to keep communication free-flowing and simple.

Finding the Right Memory Care in Arvada, Co

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from our Alzheimer’s care community? MorningStar Senior Memory Care in Arvada, Colorado, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love in a safe space. Contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact our staff today to learn more about MorningStar’s memory care communities in Arvada. We are happy to answer any questions. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Colorado. We encourage you to see our exceptional independent living and memory care in Arvada, Colorado.

3 Amazing Music Therapy Benefits for Seniors in Memory Care

April 01, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

Interestingly, music plays a critical role in our memory and recollection abilities. This is especially true for seniors struggling with a memory loss diagnosis like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care communities that incorporate music therapy into their senior care approaches can significantly improve the lives of seniors with Alzheimer’s. This is because there is a distinctive relationship between memory and music.

The relationship between dementia and music

Our memory has a significant relationship with music, meaning music can evoke strong reactions and sensations just by hearing a familiar tune or favorite song. Music therapy is one of the many growing holistic methods offered in memory care communities for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia because of music’s powerful benefits. The following are 3 of the many amazing benefits of music therapy for seniors in memory care:

Improved Emotional Regulation

Dementia tends to cause frustration, agitation, and added sensitivity in seniors. This can make handling a memory loss diagnosis difficult, as seniors may feel more on edge and ornery than usual. It may be hard to find an activity that your loved one enjoys. Music therapy, through the healing magic of music and vibration, can help seniors in memory care to relax and regulate their emotions. Regular exposure to calming music can improve mood and behavior over time.

Cognitive Stimulation

Music therapy often encourages humming, singing along, moving to the rhythm, and even playing instruments in a group. All of this, combined with the healing power of music, provides seniors with cognitive stimulation in memory care.

Improved Holistic Senior Health

Music therapy improves overall health for seniors by providing a space for social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and providing a sense of purpose. Music evades negative feelings and emotions, making it easy for seniors to enjoy their time and the people around them.

Finding the Right Memory Care in Arvada, Co

3 Popular Senior Living Options Defined

March 30, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

Senior living options have greatly improved, creating modern, luxury-style senior retirement community options. With that, our expanding knowledge on memory loss has given senior care providers the skills to create improved memory care and assisted living that advocates for senior wellness by adding to their overall health and enjoyment, not diminishing it. If you are looking to better understand the senior living choices you have, keep reading to better understand the difference between independent senior living, assisted living, and memory care.

What is Independent Senior Living?

When you think of a retirement community, that idea is very much in line with the definition of independent senior living. This type of senior care often incorporates a walkable and easily accessible community with senior-friendly amenities, dining options, and ample activities. These modern senior living communities with apartment living options are great for single seniors and those with a partner or best friend. Independent senior living is designed for seniors who want to retire and be surrounded by like-minded individuals in the same age range. These seniors need little to no help with daily living activities and can freely come and go from the community via public transport or their cars.

Assisted Living Explained

Assisted living communities often offer very similar amenities and activities as independent senior living. Seniors in assisted living can still experience their community, have roommates, pets, and explore new hobbies and old passions while obtaining extra help and management. Depending on the need, seniors in assisted living may receive help in everyday daily activities like getting out of bed, cleaning themselves, completing some tasks, and other issues surrounding mobility. Usually, seniors in assisted living have medical conditions that inhibit them from living independently.

Memory Care Senior Communities

Memory care is specifically designed for seniors who struggle with Alzheimer’s or another memory loss diagnosis. Memory care offers more support for seniors with memory impairment, including specialized staff, holistic healthcare methods, dementia-friendly activities, and increased safety and security.

Find Holistic Memory Care and Senior Living Near You

Healthy Eating Options for Alzheimer’s Care

March 29, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

What we eat matters. I know we’ve all heard this, but have you ever stopped to fully consider the impact our food choices have on our body and mind as well? This is especially true for seniors who struggle with memory loss diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia.

How Diet Impacts Dementia

Poor dietary habits such as eating a diet high in saturated fats and processed foods can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disturbances that damage brain cells and negatively impact cognitive function. For seniors with Alzheimer’s, this can greatly exacerbate symptoms of dementia and can make related health issues appear or worsen, such as:

Obesity
Dental concerns
Diabetes
And difficulties sleeping

Adopting a Healthy Diet

If you’re worried about a loved one’s health, introducing them to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health and overall wellness. Some popular foods that can combat cognitive decline are almonds, dark chocolate, chickpeas, kale, and unsweetened green tea. Making small and simple changes in a senior’s diet can make a huge difference. See how this trusted memory care community in Arvada is supporting senior’s brain health through food:

How Memory Care Supports Brain Health

Certain diets, such as ones that prioritize ingredients known to support brain health by their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, are encouraged at MorningStar’s Memory Care in Arvada. Memory care communities with trained executive chefs produce seasonal menus that feature recipes from our BrainWise program.

BrainWise is developed by world-class chefs who use ingredients known to support brain health through their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Our culinary team is not just to create flavors to delight the eye and palate, but to leverage the phenomenal benefits of “SuperFoods,” like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens to support brain health.

Finding the Right Memory Care in Arvada, Co

Hearing Loss is Associated With Cognitive Impairment

March 29, 2024 by Karla A in Independent Living

JAMA Neurology added to the growing body of evidence showing a link between hearing loss and cognitive impairment. The study found treating hearing loss with hearing aids may reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 19%. In fact, researchers say hearing loss may be the biggest treatable factor for dementia. An article in AARP explains what may cause the link between hearing loss and dementia.

The first theory regards socialization. Scientists say once a person starts having more difficulty being in a group of people and following the conversation, they may avoid such social gatherings. This in turn can lead to isolation, which is problematic as less social engagement as well as less cognitively stimulating activities and depression are risk factors for dementia.

Secondly, coping with hearing loss means the person is constantly working to sort out sounds and make sense of what is being said. The brain now may have “fewer resources (brain power) to help preserve thinking and memory abilities.” Scientists also believe hearing loss causes the brain to be less stimulated with sound information, which is linked with parts of the brain shrinking and atrophying faster with chronic deprivation.

While experts agree we still need more studies regarding the link between hearing loss and a higher risk for dementia, they do know that addressing a hearing issue with hearing aids is beneficial for the person’s overall quality of life. Moreover, there are no negative medical issues associated with the devices.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a senior community offering independent living and assisted living residents a broad range of luxury amenities and services. In addition, we provide care to those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Our memory care is designed around the needs of residents through Lavender Sky, MorningStar’s signature philosophy and approach to dementia care, which incorporates Montessori-based therapies to help elevate and celebrate life. For trusted senior living in Peoria, AZ, please contact us for more information.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Why Choose MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge?

March 27, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

You may have found that there are many senior living communities in and around Peoria, AZ and may be wondering what sets MorningStar at Golden Ridge apart from all the others. To start with, we offer seniors a wide range of senior living options that start with our comfortable independent living Casitas with attached garages in their own private neighborhood with a clubhouse and swimming pool.

Our assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities. Care services include compassionate caregivers available 24/7, access to a licensed nurse and medication management. Residents have a choice of spacious suites in a variety of floor plans.

MorningStar is also proud to have earned a reputation as dementia care specialists in our 30+ communities offering memory care. The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a holistic approach to caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

However, the thing that really sets us apart from other area senior communities is our unique mission statement. MorningStar Senior Living was founded by Ken Jaeger, whose intention has always been to provide senior housing that feels like a loving home (just like his grandmother’s) and offers a sense of “family.” Our three-pillared mission statement is to honor God in our business practices and relationships; value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and invest generously in our teams’ ability to serve well.

MorningStar’s extraordinary team is another reason we stand out from the rest. Our team selection starts with heart, and we specifically seek out individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure residents receive first-class care and services. Furthermore, we train our entire team in our culture we call Radiance, which lovingly guides the way we deliver service.

Please visit our website for more information about independent living, assisted living and memory care at MorningStar at Golden Ridge. While you are there, use our Community Assistant (lower right-hand corner) to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful home.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

Memory Care and Sundowning Solutions

March 27, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

Despite the research, there is still a lot that is unknown about Alzheimer’s and dementia. While there have been great strides in available memory care solutions, there is still work that needs to be done to better understand how to treat memory loss. One odd behavior of dementia is “Sundowning.” Seniors with memory impairment often struggle settling in for the night, which may cause them to miss out on necessary sleep. If you are looking for Memory care in Arvada Colorado, consider MorningStar Memory Care for dementia solutions and caretaking.

What is Sundowning?

Sundowning, or sundown syndrome, is primarily observed in those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It causes a state of confusion or restlessness for those with memory impairment diseases in the late afternoon, lasting into the evening. Sundowning can cause seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia to behave more aggressively or showcase more signs of anxiety or pain.

Sundowning, like dementia, is a bit of a phenomenon. Sundowning is not a disease by itself, but an unexplained symptom of Alzheimer’s and dementia. There is no exact cure for sundowning, but there are memory care options that can combat sundowning behaviors.

How to Combat Sundowning

Unlike a regular disease or infection, medication does not necessarily treat dementia or sundowning, but there are things memory care communities can do to help combat sundowning. Maintaining a consistent routine is one of the strongest solutions to help manage sundowning and other negative symptoms of dementia. A consistent routine includes eating balanced meals at the same time each day, completing similar tasks daily, following a schedule, and limiting screen exposure in the evening. Memory care routines encourage stability in seniors with memory impairment, making things feel less disorienting. Steady schedules in turn also promote great sleep and relaxation at the end of the day.

Finding the Right Memory Care in Arvada, Co

Could You Benefit From a Mobility Aid?

March 25, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

If you have arthritis, heart or lung issues, pain and weakness in the feet and legs, impairment due to a stroke, visual impairment, or other balance problems, a mobility aid can help you feel more independent, reduce pain, and increase confidence. With options available ranging from canes to walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters, you may be wondering which one is best for your needs.

Experts explain that your choice of aids will depend on your disability and/or medical condition. Canes are the most common choice and are good for someone with balance problems. In fact, the journal Medical News Today, says that one in 10 adults over the age of 65 uses a cane. However, even here there are decisions to be made. While white canes are reserved for the visually impaired or blind, you may find a four-footed cane with its wider base offers more stability. If you need to shift weight from the wrist to the arm, try a forearm cane.

Walkers, also called Zimmer frames, provide stability and are used by an estimated 4.6 percent of people in the country over the age of 65. Along with the basic walker, styles include rollators that have four wheels, handlebars and a seat. Knee walkers are like a rollator but have a padded cushion to rest a knee on while the stronger leg moves it forward. Walker-cane hybrids are another option that offers better support than a standard cane.

For more severe disabilities or to move longer distances, a wide range of wheelchairs and scooters are available. If mobility problems are long-term, modifications to your home may also be necessary. Regardless of what mobility aid you decide on, doctors recommend making an appointment with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to learn how to use the new device properly.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer active seniors two-bedroom Casitas with attached garages for independent living. For those needing help with the activities of daily living we have suites for assisted living in spacious studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment. Our residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all day in our full-service dining room, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship. We are committed to providing the best senior living in Peoria, AZ and invite you to set up a tour to see our beautiful home.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Peoria, Arizona

March 22, 2024 by Karla A in Assisted Living

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s goal is to provide the best assisted living in the area, and we understand that deciding which community is right for you is a big step for a senior. This is why we encourage interested families to give us a call to discuss any questions you may have and to inquire about availability. In addition, our website is filled with lots of pertinent information regarding amenities, services, floorplans, and more.

Our website even has a dedicated page for FAQs under our “First Steps” tab. Here you will find answers to commonly asked questions such as age requirements (you must be at least 55 years old). You will also discover important information on how a resident’s level of care is determined and our pricing structure.

FAQs include practical queries such as, yes, we will help you find a physician if you need one whether it is a primary care doctor or a specialty healthcare provider like an Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist. And yes, we do provide transportation to doctor appointments as needed, and our transportation vehicles can accommodate a walker or wheelchair.

You and your family may also want to know about the type of training our staff receives, and we go over that too. Care Managers complete an orientation program (including a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, 8-hour dementia training, and ongoing training in specific care needs. Each of our Medication Managers (QMAPs) is additionally trained in medication administration.

FAQs go over senior housing options such as Companion Living that allows two unrelated adults of the same sex to share a suite, and of course, married couples are welcome! MorningStar at Golden Ridge also offers short-term stays based on availability that allows someone to try MorningStar to see if we are a good fit.

Please visit our website for more information and if you like what you see, contact us to set up a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

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 assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Thoughtful Gifts for an Elderly Parent or Grandparent

March 20, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

Trying to find thoughtful gifts for an elderly parent or grandparent can be a challenge. If they live in a senior living community that provides for many of their needs or an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up a lot of room or already has it.

This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy.

If they haven’t gotten a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice operated. They can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use.

Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain or a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids.

For outstanding independent or assisted living, Peoria, AZ area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Casitas and suites are well designed to maximize space and are available in a variety of floor plans. Residents enjoy our five-star dining, salon, fitness centers, theater/chapel, bistro bar, swimming pool and scheduled transportation as well as signature wellness programs and activities. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Supporting a Loved One With Memory Problems

March 18, 2024 by Karla A in Assisted Living

If your mom or dad or another loved one is having serious memory problems, we have some suggestions to help you navigate through this trying time. Medical experts recommend doing some research on Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, to educate yourself on how the disease is diagnosed, stages of the disease, and some of what your family can expect if it is. You may want to visit websites such as the Alzheimer’s Association as well as online support groups for family members dealing with the disease for suggestions on how to best prepare and support your parents.

Also, remember it may not be dementia as there are medical conditions, reactions to medications, and nutritional and hormonal issues that can cause dementia-like symptoms. Therefore, you need to sit down and have a talk with your parents about the problems they are having and the need to make an appointment with their healthcare provider for a full medical exam.

Experts say when you are ready to have the “conversation,” be honest and try to keep your voice calm. Pick a time and place where you will not be interrupted and be sure to include in your homework different care options in case they ask. Also, be ready to talk less and listen more as they may have also been worried about some of the changes they have been experiencing. However, keep in mind it is common for a person to be confused, in denial, and/or withdraw.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia related disease is devastating, and we want area families to know we are here to help shoulder the burden. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Advocate for Your or a Loved One’s Health

February 23, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude.

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ offices or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume.

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask.

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.

For outstanding independent living, assisted living or memory care, Peoria, AZ area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our beautiful home provides a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or see our website for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

Luxury Independent Living in Peoria, Arizona

February 21, 2024 by Karla A in Independent Living

Are you ready for a lifestyle change? While you may have retired from your career, we know you have not retired from life but rather looking forward to a whole new chapter. Along with assisted living and memory care, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers independent seniors well-designed Casitas, onsite amenities and a community of friends.

Today’s seniors are not only living longer but are more engaged and active than their parents and grandparents were in their later years. Retirement in 2024 is the time to enjoy hobbies, pursue new interests, travel, and renew yourself through volunteerism or hanging out with the grandkids – not worrying about home maintenance and repairs. Time is precious and life needs to be lived to the fullest.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s five-star dining service puts most meal preparation and clean-up in our hands and frees you for a before dinner swim or soak in the hot tub. Like to watch movies in the evening? Walk over to our theater, chat with friends before the show and then enjoy a good film. Imagine having a group of neighbors ready to play a hand of cards or attending a fitness class with a friend a few doors down. A complement of wellness programs and activities keep your brain sharp, the body fit, and spiritually and socially connected.

Another overlooked advantage to independent living is the security of knowing someone is always around. For peace of mind, all Casitas have a handicap-accessible bathroom, 24-hour emergency call system, and attached garage. Since we are pet friendly, you will not need to leave behind your beloved four-footed family member.

Our beautiful Casitas are available in different floor plans so you are sure to find one that suits your needs. In addition, independent living residents have priority access to our assisted living and memory care suites, which gives you the security of knowing extra supportive care is available—if you ever need it. Please contact us or visit our website to learn what sets our community apart from other senior living in Peoria, AZ and why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

How to Find Effective Medication Management for Seniors in Memory Care Arvada Co

February 21, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

If you have a loved one in need of memory care in Arvada, CO, it’s important to consider their unique needs and health care necessities. Often, seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia will have a strict medication routine that will need to be followed to support their overall health and comfort while aging.

Trusted memory care includes proper medication management. To ensure that your loved one is receiving the right care for them, here is how to find a memory care community that provides effective medication management:

Evaluate Needs

Before deciding on a memory care community, evaluate the needs of your loved one. What medication and healthcare will your loved one require when they move into memory care? How rigorous is the routine? What difficulties do your loved one have with taking their medications? These are all questions you should ask yourself to be sure that you can communicate these memory care needs to the community and care management.

Review Staff Training and Caretakers

To find the best memory care Arvada, Co has to offer, you must review any training or credentials of memory care staff. MorningStar’s signature philosophy and approach to dementia care is named “Lavender Sky” where the caretaker’s ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore the effects of memory loss. This includes proper medication management and evaluation.

Consider Staff to Resident Ratio

All seniors should be properly cared for in memory care, and this means communities should be staffed well and efficiently. To find proper medication management for your loved one, consider a memory care community that is fully staffed and attentive to the needs of the residents around them.

Finding the Right Memory Care in Arvada, Co

A Closer Look at Innovative Memory Care Solutions in Beaverton Senior Living

February 21, 2024 by Karla A in Senior Living

Many families feel devastated by a memory loss diagnosis. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, which makes this diagnosis even more challenging. Luckily, there are memory care communities that make it their mission to bring innovative memory care solutions to families in Beaverton, Oregon.

MorningStar Senior Living Oregon addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals with memory issues and sets the stage for an exploration of progressive and transformative approaches to care in these ways:

Innovative Design and Smart Technologies

MorningStar Memory Care Beaverton utilizes the latest technology and research in dementia care to create a comforting and safe environment for residents. With a homelike atmosphere, wayfinding strategies, and the incorporation of SafelyYou technologies, seniors at MorningStar are safer and more supported than ever before.

Person-Centered Memory Care

Senior living is no longer “one-size-fits-all.” This means seniors receive the proper care they need in memory care communities at MorningStar Beaverton. Personalized care plans are specialized to each senior’s physical, emotional, and social needs. Developed with family, medical professionals, and the care team at MorningStar, seniors receive structured and person-centered memory care.

Engaging Therapeutic and Holistic Programs

MorningStar Senior Living Beaverton provides memory support for seniors through a variety of engaging therapeutic and holistic programs offered in Beaverton’s memory care communities.

Art, pet, and music therapy are proudly loved and utilized at MorningStar. Remiscnece activities like movie nights, nature walks, board games, and craft-making aim to stimulate cognitive function, evoke positive memories, and foster emotional well-being for seniors in memory care communities.

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Creating a Holistic Memory Care Environment at Home

February 19, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

Holistic memory care is a popular and innovative approach to memory care. If you are the primary caregiver to a parent or loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may be wondering how you can make your loved one’s environment more comfortable.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton proudly brings the finest assisted living and memory care Beaverton has to offer. Suppose you aren’t ready to move your loved one into memory care, or you are just looking for ways to make your space at home more memory care friendly. In that case, MorningStar offers 3 useful tips to create a holistic memory care environment at home.

What is holistic memory care?

Unlike traditional memory care approaches, which tend to focus on the individual’s weaknesses and limitations, holistic memory care emphasizes the individual’s strengths and abilities.

Memory care communities, like MorningStar Senior Living Beaverton, create specialized care plans that are tailored to the unique needs, interests, and abilities of every senior, allowing them to maintain their sense of identity and independence for as long as possible while also giving them the appropriate level of care needed.

Creating Holistic Memory Care

Focus on providing a calm living space for your loved one to feel comfortable. It is difficult for a senior struggling with memory loss to relax in cluttered, loud, and dirty places. When creating a holistic memory care environment, be sure to offer a space that is organized and managed effectively. It is best to not have disturbing noises that may frequently affect a senior’s peace.
Encourage the independence of your loved one. This may feel counterproductive, especially if your loved one has lost a lot of motor skills, mobility, and memory capabilities. But this is the purpose of holistic memory care: meeting your loved one where they’re at. Find activities your loved one can participate in that encourage their independence, such as having them help complete small tasks around the home.
Maintain a stimulating routine through sensory play and other mentally stimulating activities. Holistic therapies, such as art therapy, yoga, and music therapy can also be helpful when used routinely.

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The Difference between Probiotics and Prebiotics

February 19, 2024 by Karla A in Assisted Living

The last several years have brought probiotics and prebiotics into the spotlight. However, it can be confusing as to what the difference is between the two and the role they play in our bodies. Experts say both are important to our health; probiotics are beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics are food for these bacteria.

In other words, “Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain foods or supplements and can provide numerous health benefits. Prebiotics are substances from types of carbs (mostly fiber) that humans can’t digest. The beneficial bacteria in your gut eat this fiber.”

The Harvard Medical School explains our large intestine has 100 trillion good bacteria essential to our health called microbiome. These good microbes help maintain healthy bowel function. Each person has their own unique microbiome from birth and we add to the good microbes by the food we consume. However, a diet high in sugar and fat can negatively affect gut health by encouraging the growth of bad bacteria, allowing them to grow faster and colonize more easily, without as many helpful bacteria to prevent it from happening.

Research shows certain foods like yogurt and kefirs with live, active cultures are beneficial to adding to our microbiome. Unpasteurized, fermented foods like kombucha, miso, sauerkraut and sour pickles contain healthy microbes but most packaged fermented foods are pasteurized, which destroys the microbes. The best way to get around that is to learn to ferment foods at home.

Experts say while there are many probiotic supplements on the market, it is not easy to find exactly what you need. Most probiotic supplements contain just a few bacterial strains, compared to the many stains naturally found in the gut. “Although there are many claims made by probiotic products, there’s now reliable, evidence-based support that certain probiotics — like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium (bacteria), and Saccharomyces boulardii (yeast) — are generally safe and helpful in specific conditions.”

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’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Sources:

healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-and-prebiotics

healthline.com/health/probiotics-and-digestive-health/how-long-does-it-take-for-probiotics-to-work#choosing-a-probiotic

How Continuity of Care Improves Senior’s Lives in Memory Care

February 19, 2024 by Karla A in Memory care

When the time comes to find trusted and reliable memory care, you want to consider the possibility that your loved one’s needs may change drastically over time. Even with preventative treatment, seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s can experience skill degradation, loss of mobility, changes in appetite, and extreme memory loss. For these reasons, it is worth it to consider a continuous care community for your memory care needs.

What are Continuous Senior Care Communities?

Continuous Care Communities, or CCRCs, are senior living communities that are committed to providing a seamless transition of comprehensive care to seniors throughout their lifetime within that community.

Continuous care communities allow residents to age comfortably regardless of their changing health or abilities, without the stress of relocation.

How does a continuous care community benefit memory care?

Continuous care communities, like MorningStar Senior Living Arvada, provide seniors with a stable and supportive environment that enhances their overall well-being, reduces stress, and fosters the growth of positive relationships and friendships.

The familiarity and consistency created by continuous care senior living communities contribute significantly to the positive experiences of seniors in memory care through these ways:

Building Trusted Relationships

Seniors struggling with Alzheimer’s or dementia often feel overwhelmed by meeting unfamiliar people. If a senior is constantly relocating due to changing needs, this may be triggering unnecessary issues and causing your loved one to experience more stress and anxiety, hindering any progress while limiting the ability to grow trusted relationships with the people and caretakers around them.

Better Health Monitoring

When a senior stays in one community for an established period, that community has a better chance to fully understand and predict their health needs. When seniors with memory loss conditions relocate frequently, important medical concerns can be lost or overlooked in translation.

Maintaining Structured Routines

Continuous care senior communities take into account the changing needs seniors may have down the line. If your loved one is struggling with memory loss, staying in a familiar environment provides these seniors with the stability and support to maintain structured routines.