Navigating the HealthCare System can be Confusing

May 27, 2024 by Karla A in alzheimer's care

We all have occasional aches and pains but when problems persist or interfere with daily life, it is time to consult a doctor. The question often is “who should you see?” For answers, Medical experts weigh-in on a recently published article from The U.S. News & World Report.

Before you begin, start with understanding the role of your primary care physician and his/her expertise. Primary care physicians are typically internal medicine doctors, family medicine doctors or pediatricians. Internal medicine doctors, also called internists, handle common and complex illnesses in adults and older adults. Family doctors care for people of all ages from birth to end of life, and pediatricians specialize in the care of children.

Experts say when you schedule a visit to your primary care doctor; they can help decide whether you need the expertise of a medical specialist. Dr. David Cutler, a board-certified family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains upwards of 95% of cases can be taken care of with good primary care and the referral is the exception.

The exceptions for the services of a medical specialist include when the patient’s chronic disease requires a special test such as a colonoscopy, stress test or an Upper GI Series test. If results show a need for treatment, the specialist may take over. Another reason a specialist is used is when the patient’s symptoms are eluding their primary care doctor; or the patient wishes for a second opinion.

At MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart. Our location is convenient to downtown and its shops and restaurants, and close to health facilities such as St. Anthony Hospital & Swedish Medical Center. Please contact us to learn more about the most trusted assisted living and Alzheimer’s care the area offers.

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-news/best-hospitals/articles/types-of-doctors-and-medical-specialists?

Learn More About Holistic Memory Care

November 24, 2023 by Karla A in Memory care

Holistic memory care options for seniors with Alzheimer's are becoming an increasingly important approach to treating memory loss. Holistic memory care addresses all aspects of the individual's well-being and focuses on their strengths by providing personalized care plans and promoting a positive environment through highly skilled and compassionate team members and caregivers.

Holistic memory care has been shown to improve outcomes for seniors struggling with memory loss. This memory care method provides seniors with the highest quality of life possible. If you are considering memory care options for your loved one with Alzheimer's, keep reading to learn more about the benefits of a holistic approach offered at MorningStar Senior Living and Memory Care.

Reinventing Memory Care

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

At MorningStar, a specialized care plan is tailored to every senior’s unique needs, interests, and abilities, 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 whether it is at the onset of the disease or more advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we understand a diagnosis of dementia is devastating and we want to reassure our families we are here to help shoulder some of the burden.

Holistic Memory Care Living Options

If a loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you will want the most trusted memory care Arvada offers. MorningStar of Arvada’s distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, holistic memory care designed around the individualized needs of each resident. With 29 suites, we can care for residents in an intimate, supportive, and loving environment, where independence is encouraged through clear wayfinding and inviting common areas.

Find Trusted Memory Care

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living options in Arvada CO. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Colorado.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Arvada, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Arvada, Colorado.

How to Better Understand Memory Care

October 25, 2023 by Karla A in Memory care

Families battle with difficult emotions when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. A memory loss diagnosis may lead families to consider new approaches to their loved one’s senior living care. To make an informed decision about your loved one’s care going forward, it is important to better understand memory care as a whole.

Keep reading to learn how MorningStar Senior Living has developed some of the most trusted memory care Arvada CO has to offer for seniors and their families.

What is Memory Care?

Memory care is a type of senior care that provides empathetic and customized care to seniors struggling with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. This is a more intensive form of senior living care, as individuals with a memory loss diagnosis will often need 24/7 care, medication management, help with everyday activities, and more supervision.

Finding the right memory care community for your loved one is extremely important. When searching for memory care near you, find senior living communities that provide a safe environment with structured activities that help seniors’ lives feel full and exciting. A senior memory care facility should be focused on managing memory loss symptoms holistically through proper care.

Memory Care Living Options

If a loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you will want the most trusted memory care Arvada offers. MorningStar of Arvada’s distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, holistic memory care designed around the individualized needs of each resident. With 29 suites, we are able to care for residents in an intimate, supportive, and loving environment, where independence is encouraged through clear wayfinding and inviting common areas.

Find Trusted Memory Care

A Key Communication Strategy for Dementia

September 22, 2023 by Karla A in Assisted Living

A dementia diagnosis for a senior loved one or parent is disheartening. You will be on a journey of new battles and challenges, but hopefully, you will still find ways to appreciate what is still possible while on this new path with your loved one.

A challenging aspect of dementia and Alzheimer’s is adjusting to new communication methods. Barriers in communication due to dementia can make caring for your loved one with Alzheimer’s difficult. You may feel like you’re doing more harm than good. MorningStar’s Assisted Living and Memory Care Arvada Co offers a key communication strategy for dementia to help maintain your relationship with your loved one while seeking memory care near you.

Alzheimer’s is a disease that progresses differently for each person diagnosed. Since dementia and Alzheimer’s present differently in every person, this means communication methods will vary. Alzheimer’s can also be a progressive disease that can become more disintegrating as time goes on which worsens symptoms and behaviors. These changes tend to lead to a lot of stress and frustration for your loved one, and for you as well.

Ask your parents with Alzheimer’s or dementia in memory care to show you how to do things. This can be any simple task. If you are being met with frustration about taking medication, bathing, or eating, simply ask the individual to show you how to do it. The key is pretending like you need help or that you’ve forgotten how to complete the task for yourself.

Seniors, especially those struggling with dementia in memory care, continue to seek out independence and autonomy. While they may not be able to complete all the tasks they once could on their own, they still want to feel helpful. At MorningStar, you will find the most modern memory care Arvada Co has to offer for seniors needing memory care.

Learn More about MorningStar of Arvada’s Clinical Services

September 16, 2022 by Karla A in Assisted Living

MorningStar memory care of Arvada CO defines wellness as a comprehensive, holistic strength. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment, we see wellness as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life. We look for creative solutions as we partner with you in pursuit of your highest goals for whole-person wellness. Our scope of clinical services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health, extending the stay of residents even as health conditions change. Our community maintains up-to-date files as well as consistent health monitoring to make sure our residents are receiving the care that is right for them.

MorningStar is proud to set the pace within Senior Housing with our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management, and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). With the heightened productivity of this point-of-care charting and clinical intelligence, we are free to devote more time to resident-centered care and activities. This also ensures our information is organized and up to date.

We determine your loved one’s level of need as part of our onboarding process for our memory care in Arvada CO. Each resident has a varying level of need. Care Levels are determined through a simple point system that takes into account the cost and time of providing each service such as grooming, bathing, ambulation, and medical assistance. The cumulative score determines the level of care, resulting in an individualized service plan that offers the right amount of help needed.

Respite stays are also offered at MorningStar. Respite care is a short-term stay in a MorningStar community. It is recommended for seniors recovering from hospitalization or other health issues. It can also be of benefit to a personal caregiver who needs a well-deserved vacation or a break from the responsibilities of caring for a senior.

How is Mild Cognitive Impairment Diagnosed?

May 16, 2022 by Karla A in Assisted Living

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

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

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

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

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

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers individualized, loving care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of MorningStar’s memory care is geared toward residents’ needs from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/evaluating-mci-mild-cognitive-impairment

When a Loved One with Dementia No Longer Recognizes You

May 02, 2022 by Karla A in Memory care

Apart from having to watch a loved one go through the devastating stages of Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease, the next saddest thing may be when the person stops recognizing you. This can bring up all sorts of feelings, of which some while not fair, are there nonetheless. When we take time to visit a family member (in person or via video call) in a memory care community and they don’t even know who we are, some people wonder why they are making the effort.

However, a long-term caregiver reminds us how we can be certain the person is not reacting to our presence in some way? Maybe the sound of our voice, or the touch of our hand? In the same way people in comas have said they heard the voices of loved ones even when they were unable to communicate, perhaps a person in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease knows we are there for them on some level. At the very least, in whatever way they can understand, we want them to know they are loved and valued.

Experts suggest a way to help make yourself more recognizable to your parents or spouse. If you are an adult child, try putting together a photo timeline of you as a small child, an adolescent, a young adult to a current picture. Spouses can do the same starting with a picture from their early days as a couple to the present.

For anyone having difficulty being around a loved one with Alzheimer’s, it may be helpful to learn all you can about the disease so you understand what is going on. It will also teach you better ways to more effectively communicate with the person.

At MorningStar of Arvada, our goal is to offer the best senior living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our approach is holistic and encompasses every aspect of the disease as well as individualized care. For trusted memory care Arvada, CO families can count on, please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

Maintain and Enhance Your Memory

March 21, 2022 by Karla A in Independent Living

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

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

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

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

What sets MorningStar of Arvada apart from other independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO offers? We strive to provide a true “home” for our residents and have a team committed to serving seniors who treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents. Please 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 living, assisted living, and memory care Arvada, CO offers.

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

Adult Children Often Feel Guilty When a Parent Moves to Assisted Living

March 15, 2022 by Karla A in Assisted Living

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need.

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living facility is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they needed to move to a place where they would receive the proper care.

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long-run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.

For exceptional assisted living, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Beaverton, a true destination for successful aging. We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing. Our beautiful community offers 66 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs. In addition, 38 memory care suites are devoted to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

The Last Few Years had Seen Breakthroughs in Treating Alzheimer’s

February 11, 2022 by Karla A in Memory care

Recently John C. Morris, MD, Director of the Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis and member of the ABF research advisory committee, said there are several reasons to have hope and optimism for the future in regards to Alzheimer’s disease. Involved in Alzheimer’s research since 1983, he explained for the first time he believes “there is now a great opportunity to develop effective therapies, including drugs currently under evaluation for treatment.” He said advances also include an important tool for diagnosing the disease.

One of the reasons for optimism was the announcement of the pharmaceutical company Biogen’s controversial new drug, which purportedly is designed to treat Alzheimer’s disease and not just the symptoms. The drug, aducanumab was approved for use on patients on June 7 2021. However doctors say it is important to know the FDA’s approval is only for the drug’s ability to reduce the amount of amyloid plaques in the brains of people given the drug. They state it is still unknown whether the removal of the plaque offers benefits to the patients. To be eligible to receive the drug, patients need to have a firm diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.

In the year 2020, we also heard the news about a ground-breaking new blood test at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2020. Researchers say the new test identifies the protein ptau-2017, a biomarker for Alzheimer’s, and results have been far more accurate than several other biomarkers currently being tested. This is good news as doctors say earlier testing will lead to earlier interventions. The test received a Breakthrough Device designation by the FDA in October 2021.

At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we provide a range of senior living options including holistic memory care. Residents in our Reflections Neighborhood receive compassionate, expert care, amenities and meaningful activities to enhance quality of life. Please contact us regarding availability at one of the most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria.

Source:

americanbrainfoundation.org/research-in-dementia-2022/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAuvOPBhDXARIsAKzLQ8GeKsmbzH9wiQeieSXmQRQpWuapAPu0LIT7aQ6J6tjPcMsB35h7LHMaAmNkEALw_wcB

What is Dementia?

January 26, 2022 by Karla A in Independent Living

Many of us, especially seniors, have heard or known someone with Alzheimer’s disease and have an idea of the devastation it causes. While there are other types of diseases categorized as dementia, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. You should know dementia is not actually a specific disease but refers to a decline in a person’s mental ability to such a degree it interferes with their daily life.

It is also important to understand dementia is not a normal condition of aging but rather caused by damage to brain cells that affect a person’s memory, reasoning and other cognitive skills including an ability to communicate. There are several types of clinical dementia including: Alzheimer’s disease; vascular dementia; dementia with Lewy Body; and frontotemporal dementia. Mixed dementia is the term used when a person has both Alzheimer’s and another form of dementia, which is causing their mental decline.

The Alzheimer’s Association says the “most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.” As the disease progresses, the person is robbed of many other abilities such as speaking, swallowing and walking.

To help get the proper diagnosis and rule out other causes that may be treatable such as side effects from a medication, it is important to see your doctor. If warranted, they may have you see a specialist that can do further testing.

MorningStar of Arvada offers choices for seniors interested in independent living or assisted living with 112 bright suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition we are pleased to provide 29 memory care suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We invite you to visit our website for contact information and to learn about the area’s finest independent living and assisted living as well as trusted memory care in Arvada, CO. Ask about our New Year Specials for assisted living and memory care residents.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s

Alzheimer’s Patients Do Better Staying Engaged

January 24, 2022 by Karla A in Memory care

Researchers say despite declining cognitive abilities, studies show Alzheimer’s patients do better when encouraged to participate in meaningful activities as it gives them a sense of purpose and self-worth. The Nation Institute of Health (NIH) reports, “engaging older persons with dementia in appropriate activities has been shown to yield beneficial effects such as increasing positive emotions, improving activities of daily living (ADL) and improving the quality of life.” One study’s author explains the act of staying engaged can help dementia patients maintain quality of life even in advanced stages of the disease.

Just as it is important for older people to stay engaged and active, it is also important for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to be involved in healthy daily activities. Dementia care specialists say structure and routine helps individuals “maintain their cognitive function, sense of security, and can calm anxious or aggressive behaviors.” Especially in the early stages of the disease, these types of activities give a person a sense of control over their day. Toward the latter stages of the disease, purposeful activities can be one of the few remaining ways to engage in memories and communicate.

Studies show the creative arts are an effective way to stimulate the five senses. Singing has been shown to not only be enjoyable to those with dementia, but often is one of the last abilities they lose. A person may remember the words to a song long after other memories disappear. Dancing to or listening to popular music from their youth is another activity shown to stimulate the person’s senses and increase self-awareness, while reducing anxiety and depression. Painting or drawing can do the same for others. Experts say don’t forget the value of exercise. A short walk outside can lift spirits but make sure the person is steady on their feet as Alzheimer’s can affect gait and balance.

MorningStar of Arvada offers unrivalled independent living and assisted living designed to provide carefree retirement years. We additionally offer holistic memory care that incorporates music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents. Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides the area’s most trusted memory care in Arvada, CO.

Source: seniorlink.com/blog/communicating-with-dementia