The Importance of Eye Exams

Optometrists and ophthalmologists explain practicing good eye care includes regular eye exams. The current recommendation for older adults from the American Academy of Ophthalmology is to get a complete eye examination at 40 years old. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of eye disease should be tested earlier.    

For adults over 65, the recommendation is every 1 to 2 years and should include a check for eye diseases and conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.  After an exam, your doctor can tell you how often to have your eyes checked going forward. It’s important to follow the schedule your ophthalmologist gives you as the risk for eye disease increases with age.

During a dilated eye exam, an ophthalmologist will check pupil reaction, eye pressure, retina, optic nerve, side/peripheral vision, eye movement, muscle balance and coordination. They will also check your focusing ability and eyeglass prescription. The doctor will ask about your medical history including if you or a family member has diabetes, as diabetics have a higher risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma as well as diabetic retinopathy. In addition, they will want to know if you have high blood pressure as over time it can cause damage to the blood vessels around the eyes. Shingles is another disease that can cause inflammation around the eyes, swelling of the eyelids and pain.  

August is National Eye Exam month and is a good time for an exam check as Americans are exposed to the greatest amount of UV ray exposure during the summer months, which can increase the risk for cataracts, growths, and cancer. Ophthalmologists say while our eyes need exposure to natural light to maintain our sleep cycles, it is important to wear sunglasses with UV-blockers and hats as protection against the sun.  

For unsurpassed independent and assisted living, Peoria, Arizona area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a great place to live your retirement years to the fullest. Residents enjoy a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a five-star dining service. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic, compassionate care to those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury senior living at MorningStar.

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 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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Source: aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/eye-exams-101

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Brings a Range of Emotions

If you have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you are not alone.  It is estimated that nearly 7 million Americans have Alzheimer’s and it was the 5th leading cause of death among people aged 65 and over in 2021.  As a way to help families impacted by the disease, the Alzheimer’s Association provides a variety of resources and services.  

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear.  Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through.  There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated.  

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward.  They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.”   

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through.  One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy.  They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able.  Finally, they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.”  

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also encourages and supports choice and independence to the fullest extent possible.  Our memory care residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills, and art, and as well as outings and special events. Above all, MorningStar residents are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Enjoy Healthy Meals at MorningStar’s Community in Peoria

At MorningStar of Golden Ridge, we understand the importance of gathering as a community to “break bread” each day.  We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.”  

We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why MorningStar meals are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible.  Menu offerings are designed by our Executive Chef and include daily and weekly specials as well as a la carte items. Dining is available all day and venues include our outdoor dining deck and private dining rooms for intimate meals.

As a resident, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as those we enjoy at Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Also, our Chef modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes.  Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar-free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods.    

MorningStar at Golden Ridge also believes that nutrient-rich ingredients can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health.  Therefore, we prepare meals using BrainWise super foods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts and other foods high in Omega 3 fats.  

Along with a five-star dining service, MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides all the comforts of home with stylish apartments and graciously appointed common areas both inside and out. Our broad range of services and amenities include a bistro bar, art studio, swimming pool, and fitness centers along with wellness programs and activities to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information about our independent and assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’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 outstanding independent and assisted living. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Finding a Community for a Loved One With Alzheimer's Disease

Are you considering a community setting for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about senior living communities offering memory care is whether they are up to the task of caring for your loved one.  Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road?  A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need.     

Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one.  Do they have a tendency to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors?  Do they require help with eating and drinking?  Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker?  Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes.   

Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one, now ask questions including how experienced is the staff; and do they have any special training.  If so, is it on-going?  Will your loved one have an individualized care plan?  Also, what is the staff-ratio during the day and at night?  

Inquire about safety protocols starting with secured doors, courtyards, and grounds as well as an emergency call system.  Are hallways color-coded making it easier for residents to navigate about more independently?   Is there a nurse on duty, and how extensive are medical services?   Also, ask about the type of memory care activities and treatments available.  After you have learned what you can, experts say trust your instincts.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge provides quality senior living in Peoria, Arizona, including compassionate care for those in the early onset of dementia through to the most advanced stages.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please contact us for more information about our Reflections Neighborhood and to set up a tour.

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. Contact us or visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/memory-care-facility-checklist

Retirement Communities Offer Seniors a Variety of Benefits

In the past, many elderly people wished to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. However, with the array of senior communities offered today, older adults are realizing the various benefits senior housing brings to their quality of life. 

Studies are discovering senior living may contribute to a longer life as well as improved physical and emotional health than for those who remain in their own homes. After all, senior living provides a maintenance-free environment where residents no longer have to worry about the unexpected expenses of home repairs or never-ending maintenance. Retirement communities are designed around the needs of residents including their safety and security. Seniors also find a sense of community, which can be hard to achieve once you retire from a job or no longer drive.     

Retirement communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge excel in offering residents best-in-class dining as well as social activities and special events to look forward to each day. Our fitness centers, swimming pool and exercise classes tailored to older adults allow you to stay as active as you like. Other amenities add to the vibrant environment and offer convenience such as beautiful gathering spaces, bistro bar, theater, salon and life enrichment rooms.    

A look at our monthly calendar gives you an idea how many opportunities there are to stay engaged and have fun.  Games, trivia, live entertainment, movie nights, coffee groups and special interest clubs ensure there is something for everyone.  In addition, forming new friendships is generally not a problem as you are amongst a group of like-minded adults.  

For residents in assisted living, our community gives them peace of mind knowing help is always at hand when needed with various care services. MorningStar’s residents receive 24/7 support and have access to licensed nurses, medication management, therapeutic services and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 and assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Would You Trust AI-Powered Medical Advice?

The Harvard Medical School published an article discussing how patients rated AI’s information next to real doctors’ advice in terms of empathy. Following up on findings from the ChatGPT survey showing AI to be more empathetic to patients, the author, Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing, says there is most likely more to consider. Currently AI does tasks such as “drafting doctor’s notes, suggesting diagnoses; helping to read x-rays and MRI scans; and monitoring real-time health data including heart rate or oxygen level.” 

Shmerling points out while AI’s surveyed responses were longer than the doctors, there is more to it than the “amount” relayed to patients’ including how accurate and up to date the information is. Another thing to consider is the answers AI provided were not tested for fabrication. Therefore, experts advise it is probably premature to rely on AI answers to patients’ questions without solid proof of their accuracy and actual supervision by healthcare providers. 

A University of Arizona Health Sciences’ AI study reports more than half of its participants didn’t fully trust AI-powered medical advice, but many more put faith in AI if it’s monitored and guided by human touch. The National Institutes of Health funded study gave participants mock medical conditions and asked if they would prefer to have an AI system or a physical doctor handle their diagnosis and treatment, and under what circumstances. The study’s lead author, Marvin J. Slepian, MD, JD, Regents Professor of Medicine at the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the BIO5 Institute, explains the study has importance for both future and current medical decisions. However, he says, “The onus will be on physicians and others in health care to ensure that information that resides in AI systems is accurate, and to continue to maintain and enhance the accuracy of AI systems as they will play an increasing role in the future of healthcare.” 

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer 38 Casitas for independent living and 65 assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Residents enjoy chef-inspired meals, fitness centers, pool, theater, scheduled transportation, wellness programs, activities and more.  Please contact us or visit our website to set up a tour of our beautiful community in Peoria, Arizona. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Sources:

health.harvard.edu/blog/can-ai-answer-medical-questions-better-than-your-doctor-202403273028

healthsciences.arizona.edu/news/releases/would-you-trust-ai-doctor-new-research-shows-patients-are-split

Couples are Welcome at MorningStar at Golden Ridge

When a couple’s health experiences are different, and one is healthier than the other, that person may assume the role of caregiver. As time evolves, the needs of the chronically ill spouse may become more complex and require daily care. This can be difficult for the healthier spouse, and even impact his/her own health and well-being. 

To ensure both parties have an opportunity for the best quality of life; an assisted living community may be the answer. While leaving a family home and transitioning to community life is a big change, the transition is easier for the person with a spouse or partner by their side. Marissa Kirby, NHA, CHC, CHPC, and vice president of compliance at NEWGEN HEALTH, LLC, explains, “In many cases, particularly when a couple has been married for many years, the ability to live together can make or break their decision on whether or not to move to an assisted living facility.”

Many senior living communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge welcome couples; where we not only expertly and compassionately address the needs of a person living with a chronic illness or disability but also the needs of the healthier spouse. MorningStar’s assisted living provides the maintenance-free environment of independent living with the addition of care services for the ADLs (activities of daily living) tailored to the resident. We offer an array of floor plans starting with studios and one-bedroom options to larger two-bedroom, 1.5 bath suites. Suites feature a kitchenette with full-sized refrigerator, handicap-accessible bathroom, emergency call system and most have a stackable washer/dryer.  Moreover, MorningStar at Golden Ridge welcomes your four-footed furry family member.  

Senior-friendly activities, resort-style amenities and built-in companionship can be a winning combination for many couples. Please contact MorningStar at Golden Ridge to learn more.  In addition to assisted living, we also offer independent living and specialized memory care at our beautiful community in Peoria, Arizona.

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 for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/couples-living-together-assisted-living-144938.htm

Studies Show Brain Games can Improve Cognitive Skills

Over the last couple of decades, researchers have found brain-training games may help improve attention levels, logic skills, and memory as well as enhance cognitive function in healthy subjects. Shaheen Lakhan, MD. Ph.D. FAAN, a physician-scientist and clinical development specialist and founding neurology department chair and curricular dean at California University of Science and Medicine writes the following: “The brain is just like a muscle – it thrives on exercise! As a neurologist, I’m thrilled by the incredible potential of brain games to help people flex their mental muscles, activating underused brain circuits to sharpen cognition and skills like focus, speed, and memory.”

Experts say effective brain games include Sudoku and crossword puzzles. With crossword puzzles, cognitive skills used include recollecting past verbal knowledge and memories. Sudoku relies on short-term memory, which is often one the first sign of Alzheimer’s, and requires the player to look ahead to plan out subsequent moves.

Android and iOS offer a number of apps for brain games that are either free, include in-app purchases or require a subscription to open up more games. One game is Elevate that centers on reading, writing, speaking, and math; and allows you to customize training on areas you wish to focus on. Another game, Luminosity, was involved in a recent study where people who played the games for “15 minutes a day at least seven days a week for three weeks experienced improved attention and motor speed.” 

At the MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, our focus is on providing everything needed to allow residents to live their best life. Along with resort-style amenities, best-in-class dining, and senior care and hospitality services, we pride ourselves on giving residents opportunities to explore new things, stay engaged and enjoy themselves in a variety of wellness programs and activities. Our community offers the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us to set up a tour. 

Source: verywellmind.com/top-websites-and-games-for-brain-exercise-2224140#:~:text=One%20recent%20study%20showed%20that,app%20on%20iOS%20and%20Android.

Women and their Bone Health

Endocrinologist Kendall Moseley, MD, medical director of the Johns Hopkins Metabolic Bone & Osteoporosis Center, says most women do not know anything about their bone health. A recent survey from the National Osteoporosis Foundation backs up that sentiment finding around 94 percent of women do not worry about their skeletons. However, they add they should, as one in five women under 30 already have osteopenia, which is a step above full out osteoporosis. The good news is there are things you can do to protect your frame and avoid the things that are not good for bone health.  

Experts say our bones constantly break down and rebuild every 10 years resulting in a new skeleton. The problem lies in the fact that after the age of 30, our bodies start to lose more bone than they make. Women’s estrogen levels also begin to drop around 30, which is another protector of women’s bone health. 

An unbalanced diet or severely restricting calories in an effort to stay thin or lose weight can be another cause of low bone density; and too much caffeine, salt and alcohol all interfere with retaining calcium, our primary bone builder. Even some medications deplete calcium and include certain antidepressants and contraceptives so be sure to ask your doctor about side effects of medications you take. It is important for women to include dairy products or foods like beans and nuts to increase their calcium intake. Protein from plants and lean meats are also good ways to get calcium.

Along with a good diet, exercise is an important element of keeping bones strong. While some exercises are better than others, scientists recommend weight bearing exercises like walking and running as good ways to build strong bones. Strength training exercises may be the ultimate bone builder and include things like pushups and squats or kickboxing.  

At the MorningStar of Arvada community, we offer the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors trust. Our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. To enhance quality of life, residents can take advantage of our many meaningful wellness programs and activities as well as our onsite luxury amenities. Contact us to learn more about our lifestyle choices, array of smartly-designed suites, and senior care and hospitality services. 

Snoring? Tips to Quiet the Problem

Medical experts say if you snore, it is important to figure out if the problem is caused by sleep apnea, a medical condition putting you at risk for a number of serious health problems, or something you can remedy with a few lifestyle changes. Sleep apnea causes symptoms such as walking up and gasping for breath during the night, or feeling sleepy during the day. If you suspect sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about it as they can schedule a sleep study to determine if you do have it. 

Other reasons for snoring are outside influences and habits, which with a little effort can be altered or worked on. One important step to quiet snoring as well as improve your health, is if you smoke, stop. Smoking can increase swelling and irritation in the upper airways and cause snoring; or it may be a reaction to nightly nicotine withdrawal. Doctors say even secondhand smoke from another household member can increase your risk of snoring.   

Alcohol is another risk factor for snoring. Experts advise avoiding alcohol altogether, or if you do drink, do it at least three hours before bedtime. Alcohol as well as certain tranquilizers or sedatives all relax the muscles in the throat, which is a cause of snoring. Studies additionally find overweight or obese people have a higher risk of snoring as extra fat tissue in the neck and throat narrows the airways. 

Likewise the position you sleep in can increase your chance of snoring. If you sleep on your back, it causes the tongue to fall back and press against the top of your airway so try sleeping on your side. Elevating your head with pillows may also help. Several companies sell snoring aids so check to see if one would work for you. A room humidifier may relieve swollen air passages, and an air purifier can help remove some airborne irritants. 

MorningStar of Beaverton’s unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Contact us to learn more about the area’s finest senior living that includes independent living, assisted living and memory care. Also be sure to ask how to save up to $8000 (a limited time deal).

AN AI Technology to Help Prevent Falls

MorningStar of Arvada’s memory care provides an environment to enhance quality of life for residents including protecting their safety by preventing falls. This is especially important for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia as they are at increased risk for falls. Studies from the National Institute of Health report a 10 percent higher risk of falls for elderly people with dementia and Alzheimer; and a 7 times higher chance of a greater number of falls. Statistics like this are what lead to us innovative technology to detect and prevent falls with (AI) Artificial Intelligence like SafelyYou.

Experts explain the reasons people with dementia are more likely to fall are due to problems with mobility, balance and strength. Additionally many are prone to pacing, while others have trouble finding their way around and forget to pay attention to hazards. Agitation can lead to some people with Alzheimer’s walking too fast for their abilities. More falls  can also make dementia worse as well as lower the person’s quality of life as they may become more fearful of falling and rely more on their caregivers. 

SafelyYou utilizes cutting-edge artificial intelligence to enable cameras to detect falls with unprecedented accuracy. The video is recorded only when a fall is detected; and our team members are notified to provide immediate assistance. Families have peace of mind knowing a loved one is getting the quick response they need.  

Along with memory care, MorningStar of Arvada provides independent living and assisted living with senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and activities. Our array of elegant suites is available in studios, and one- and two bedroom configurations with some as large as 1,374 square feet; and many with private patios or balconies. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of our senior living community and ask our Wellness Director about the use of SafelyYou for your loved one.

When is It Time for Memory Care?

The US News & World Reports, states, “More than 6 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer’s disease according to the Alzheimer’s Association. More than 11 million family members care for someone with dementia, while others with memory issues live in assisted living communities, nursing homes or memory care units.”

The decline of a person with Alzheimer’s slowly worsens over time; and it is not always easy for family members to realize their loved one needs additional support for both their safety and daily living activities. Healthcare providers say memory care may be called for if the person exhibits subtle behavioral changes in personality, declining health and an increase in confusion. Incontinence is another reason families turn to memory care. Moreover the family caregiver should be considered as increasing needs can lead to caregiver burnout. Also memory care provides peace of mind if your loved one is no longer answering their phone or replying to emails. 

For some, Alzheimer’s can bring with it dramatic and challenging behavior changes. Your gentle spirited mom or dad may start to exhibit aggressive behaviors that are difficult to deal with. Generally outgoing people may withdraw and avoid socializing. Hygiene can be hit and miss, and the person no longer changes clothes or brushes their hair or teeth. 

Other behaviors that change over time can make family caregiving increasingly difficult and time-consuming. Physical safety concerns such as wandering, trying to cook and forgetting to turn off the stove or burning themselves as well as still wanting to drive; can be a constant worry.    

Memory care communities like MorningStar of Arvada are equipped to handle these types of problems. To start with, the physical makeup of our distinct Reflections Neighborhood community is designed to safeguard residents from harm and include secure doors with keypads, enclosed courtyards and easy-to-navigate floor plans. Our compassionate, dedicated team is specifically trained to provide care for our most tender residents; and an array of stimulating and/or calming activities helps soothe and engage residents.

Please contact us to learn more about memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. Our MorningStar of Arvada community also offers assisted living for a person who may not be ready for memory care but would flourish from our senior care services. We invite you to schedule a tour to experience firsthand our philosophy and commitment to care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.     

Cognitive Reserve and Its Importance to Brain Health

While the concept of cognitive reserve was identified three decades ago, researchers were not sure how to quantify or separate it from the term brain reserve, which is defined as a structural quality measured by brain volume and its number of neurons and synapses. The NIH says to refer to it as actual differences in the brain itself that may increase tolerance of pathology, and cognitive reserve.

The term cognitive reserve was first used by a group of neuropsychologists at Columbia University lead by Yaakov Stern to explain why people of higher education or in more challenging occupations were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. After examining the brains post mortem of elderly residents from a care facility, they found some of those with a high degree of plaques associated with Alzheimer’s had “ranked in the 20 percent of residents as good or better than those without any signs of plaques.” They hypothesized the extra years of intellectual effort gave people a reserve to help delay the onset of clinical manifestations.  

New evidence debunks the long-held view that brain reserve is a fixed capacity throughout one’s life and finds we may be able to make new neurons through adulthood. However scientists say this ability needs to be supported by cognitive resilience or “brain maintenance” consisting of lifestyle or environmental factors to ensure the brain’s well-maintained. Therefore optimal brain health is a combination of cognitive reserve, brain reserve and brain maintenance. 

While cognitive reserve is associated with higher IQs, higher levels of social engagement in mid or later life is also an important component of cognitive performance. In fact studies show older adults with strong social ties have a 30 to 50 percent lower dementia risk. Exercise also elevates blood flow to the brain and maintains health. Risk factors impacting our reserve are obesity, lack of sleep and poor diet. Scientists explain building and protecting cognitive reserves is about exercising our brains throughout our lives with activities that include physical, mental and social stimulation. 

Researchers explain the physical manifestation of Alzheimer’s in the brain is linked to loss of synapses; and a recent discovery of a neuritin (NRN1), may provide an answer to therapeutic intervention. Jeremy Herskowitz, a researcher from the University of Alabama, says one day NRN1 could be a supplement to support brain function and help forestall the pathological effects of Alzheimer’s disease.   

MorningStar of Arvada is a senior living community offering independent living and assisted living as well as all-inclusive memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. Our community offers well-designed suites, luxury amenities and a complement of meaningful wellness programs and activities. Please call to schedule a tour of the finest senior living in Arvada.

Games & Activities Can Help Keep Your Brain Sharp

As we age, many of us find ourselves more absentminded and forgetful than we were in our younger years. Seeing someone unexpectedly from our past can result in recognizing the face but being unable to bring a name to mind. Experts say some lapses in memory are common as we age but encourage seniors to do cognitive activities to help stay sharp. 

Brain games exercise your memory, attention, brain speed, people skills, intelligence and navigation just like a trip to the gym gives you a cardio workout and exercises your abs and quads. One good resource for such games is the AARP online site. It offers a variety of fun and entertaining games and puzzles such as daily crosswords, word games like scrabble, Sudoku and trivia as well as the opportunity to join a bridge, chess or backgammon game. 

The New York Times offers the daily Wordl puzzle that gives your brain a  quick workout along with several other word puzzles for Times’ subscription holders. Other programs offering brain games targeted at seniors can be accessed online for a monthly or yearly fee. In addition to the Internet, if you have an iPad or tablet, you can find challenging brain game apps.  

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our vibrant community offers seniors an engaging lifestyle for independent living and assisted living as well as trusted, compassionate memory care. Residents are treated to best-in-class meals, luxury amenities and a wide array of wellness programs and activities providing companionship with like-minded adults of a similar age. Our monthly calendar is loaded with activities such as lectures, word and card games, trivia and Mexican Train to keep the brain sharp while having fun. 

Activities not only offer opportunities for challenging your cognitive skills but meeting and socializing with friends while enjoying a good laugh together. Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Screenings Guidelines for Women

Medical professionals stress the importance of women getting the proper screening to protect their health and discover problems early when they may be more treatable. Screenings are designed for otherwise healthy individuals and recommendations change as we age. The publication US News & World Report, states, “Your doctor can help you tailor the recommendations based on your goals of care, personal and family health history, age and life expectancy.”

One of the most recommended screenings for women over the age of 40 is to have an annual mammogram. Doctors say mammograms are key to the prevention as well as early detection of breast cancer when it is most easily treated. Talk to your doctor about testing options if you are under the age of 40 and have a mother or sister who contracted breast cancer at a young age. 

It is recommended women 50 years and older have a colonoscopy every ten years. As colon cancer is more common in African-Americans and occurs at an earlier age, it is advised to start testing at age 45. Younger women/teens with a family history of adenomatous polyposis – a genetic condition that starts in someone as young as in the teen years may need colonoscopies at a much earlier age. Also a woman with a history of Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease will likely be advised to have a colonoscopy at a younger age than 50.    

Diabetes is another disease a woman 45 years and older should be screened for every three years. Exceptions for screening earlier are a family history of diabetes; obesity and high blood pressure readings or you take medications for HBP.

A Lipid profile assessment testing a woman’s cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as the risk for heart disease should be done every five years starting at age 45. If lifestyle changes do not reduce your numbers, you may need medications. As with all screening, discuss with your doctor how often you need to be screened and what steps to take to improve your health. 

MorningStar of Arvada is a senior living community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada. CO seniors and their families count on. Contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful, contemporary community and ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/health-screenings-all-women-need? 

Adding Certain Spices to Your Diet Could Lower Your Risk for Dementia

Research from the UK reports there are things we can do that may influence our risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Research UK states some of the things that shape our risk like our age and our genes can’t be changed. “But others, like our diet and the things we do to challenge our brains, can be.” They go on to say the latest evidence suggests up to 40% of all cases of dementia are linked to factors we may be able to influence.  

A tasty way which could decrease our risk is to enhance our daily meals with the addition of several spices. The first of these spices is turmeric, which research shows has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric contains an active, natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin and is part of what gives turmeric its yellow hue. Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, says some research shows a decrease in pain for patients with osteoarthritis when eating turmeric in recipes. Doctors suggest getting turmeric naturally in your diet is healthier than taking supplements. 

The world’s most expensive spice, saffron, is also associated with health benefits including reducing depression symptoms and improving cognitive function; and gives food seasoned with it a golden hue color. The commonly used pepper is another spice on the list of beneficial foods as it may improve brain function and lower depression symptoms. Its value increases when used with turmeric as it “improves the bioavailability of nutrients in other foods, meaning your body absorbs more of the good stuff from what you eat.” Studies find another common spice, sage, may improve memory in low amounts.  

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a senior living community in Peoria, Arizona, we take every step to ensure the health and well-being of our residents. Our beautiful home offers independent living and assisted living as well as all-inclusive memory care. Contact us for more information and to schedule a tour. 

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 luxury senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Sources:

huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/these-spices-could-lower-your-risk-of-developing-dementia_uk_661d1ca4e4b0f8e522db5d3d

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/turmeric-benefits

The Aging Brain

It is no secret that aging brings with it changes many of us experience including not being as sharp as we were when younger. Many seniors say they find it more difficult to multitask, have trouble recalling names and finding the right word. Some complain about a decline in their ability to concentrate, absorb, process, and remember new information. 

On the positive side, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says studies have found various strengths of seniors such as having a wider vocabulary and a greater depth of understanding of the meaning of words than younger adults. Moreover, most are capable of learning new skills (it may take longer), and forming new memories. Another advantage older adults have over their younger counterparts is a wealth of life experience and accumulated knowledge. 

However, researchers are trying to figure out why some seniors stay cognitively healthy longer than others, and if our lifestyle habits protect our brains as we age. For now evidence shows certain parts of our brains do shrink as we age, especially those areas associated with learning; and parts of our brain may not communicate with one another as well as when we were younger. In addition, blood flow may decrease, while inflammation increases, and causes problems. 

We do know some people live well into their 80s, 90s and beyond with sharp cognitive skills, and defy the widely held view of seniors’ declining abilities. NIA-supported researchers call these lucky few “super agers,” and define them as “people aged 80 years and older who have performance on memory tests comparable to people two to three decades younger.” While we are not sure why super agers retain such strong cognitive skills, scientists say it could be they started out with a larger, more robust brain. 

If you are looking for outstanding senior living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge may be your answer. We offer seniors a safe place to socialize and make new friends as well as activities and wellness programs to enjoy life to the fullest. We are in Peoria, northwest of Phoenix, and convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. To experience MorningStar up close, contact us to schedule a visit.  

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Not All Memory Problems Are Caused by a Dementia Disease

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. 

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. 

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve. 

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable.  

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s community in Peoria, AZ and our company’s approach to care. 

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 for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

Independent Living and Assisted Living – Which is Right for You?

Often seniors and their families are confused with the terms “independent living” and “assisted living” and are not sure which one is best suited for their needs.  To clarify, the term independent living is used to describe communities that are designed specifically for seniors 55 and older who want to and can live without any help.  Assisted living is designed for seniors who still wish to live independently with personal privacy and autonomy but require assistance in their daily lives.  

Independent living is ideal for individuals who no longer wish to maintain their own home and desire a more carefree lifestyle.  While each community can vary, many offer amenities such as social activities, day trips and meals.  Senior independent communities offer residents the freedom to enjoy their retirement years without being tied down with routine chores that need to be done when owning a home.    

At assisted living communities, residents get help with daily personal care and are provided with an array of services such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, daily meals, and 24-hour supervision.  Generally a community assesses in-coming residents to determine the level of assistance needed that is agreeable to the senior and their extended family.  Other amenities offered by assisted living communities may include a range of activities and wellness programs.

If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living in Peoria, AZ, MorningStar is it.  We offer privacy, comfort, and security, and a staff that works hard to meet the needs of our remarkable residents.  MorningStar at Golden Ridge has stylish Casitas and suites in a variety of floor plans and configurations.  Amenities include all-day dining, swimming pool, library, theater/chapel, fitness centers, and scheduled transportation along with wellness programs and activities to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  We would love the opportunity to tell you more about our beautiful community. 

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 and assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Walking Is One of the Simplest Ways to Improve Balance

Many seniors know a fall could threaten their independence and way of life. Common injuries include to the head, hip fractures, and in the most extreme cases death. Experts explain balance declines as we age as well as can be affected by medications and medical conditions, lack of flexibility and uncorrected vision problems. This is why medical experts encourage seniors to work on maintaining and improving balance. 

The Harvard Medical School says one of the simplest ways to improve balance is with exercises like walking, strength training and workouts targeted to improve stability. However, before beginning any new exercise regime, consult your healthcare provider.  

When beginning a walking plan, whether you are active or sedentary, experts say to remember minutes walked are more important than number of miles. If you are unused to exercise, start slowly. Also, wear good walking shoes, and if you normally use a cane or walker, use it. Experts say it is safer to walk with a buddy and to bring along a cell phone. Walk in a place with an even surface, and especially in the beginning, stay close to home.  Once you start feeling more confident, add more minutes to your routine. 

For seniors who are already walking, try adding a few more minutes to your program or a more challenging route. Experts say the overall goal should be to do at least 150 minutes a week. To add strength training exercises and workouts to improve balance, ask your doctor for advice on how to get started. 

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. Along with a swimming pool, fitness centers and exercise classes, we offer strolling paths on our beautiful grounds.  If you are looking at senior living in Peoria, AZ, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

MorningStar offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in our staff to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about our independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.