Research Shows the Benefit of LifeLong Learning

Research indicates we may be able to promote brain health by engaging in challenging cognitive activities like learning a new skill at an older age. The University of Texas studied the benefits for older adults who pursued cognitively engaging activities later in life. 

The study consisted of 221 participants ranging in ages from 60 to 90, with an average age of 72 to try and determine what type of activities offered the greatest benefit to aging brains. Participants were divided into 6 groups with three taking part in what researchers labeled “productive cognitive engagement” involving active learning. Activities included learning photography and how to edit photos on the computer, quilting on a computer-driven sewing machine or doing both photography and quilting. 

Two other groups were assigned to what researchers referred to as the ‘receptive engagement conditions,’ and neither involved learning new things or engaging in unfamiliar intellectual activities. Rather people were put into a social club where they mainly did familiar activities or were asked to read informative material and watch documentaries. All performed their tasks for 15 hours per week for 14 weeks. The sixth group was the control group and did not change their activity patterns.

Researchers compared participants at the end of the study and found those who did productive cognitive engagement had significantly more improvement in episodic memory. They explain episodic memory is our memory of past events and has been found to be the type of memory most impacted by aging. The study suggests “memory improvement need not come from brain games or memory drills, but can also come from learning a challenging new skill.”

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Amenities include Executive Chef-inspired meals, restaurant-style dining, fitness room, salon, library, fireside patio and porches, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually engaged. For more information on one of the finest retirement homes in Glendale, please visit our website. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ has to offer. 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: matherinstitute.com/2015/06/29/late-life-learning-what-are-the-brain-benefits/

Foods that May Help You Sleep Better

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Experts say a good night’s sleep enhances memory, improves mood and regulates appetite. Too little sleep is linked to a higher risk of heart disease and weight gain and is the time our bodies repair muscle, organs and other cells.

Experts offer some tips to help individuals achieve a better night sleep without drugs but simply by the choice of foods consumed as well as what food or drink to avoid. Foods interfering with sleep include caffeine and large meals and alcohol consumed too close to bedtime. As a deficiency of folate is linked to insomnia, a study from the Taipei Medical University found eating two kiwis, which are high in B vitamin folate and vitamins C and E, an hour before bed helped participants fall asleep faster, sleep longer and more efficiently. 

Another food to help induce sleep is tart cherries. They contain natural melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles, and a phytonutrient linked to promoting better sleep. Additionally nuts like almonds and walnuts contain melatonin; and pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is converted to melatonin. Passionflower and chamomile teas can help promote sleep as well as warm milk. Other sleep inducing foods include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, which are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, and help regulate sleep, mood and other functions.

MorningStar of Billings strives to provide residents with all of the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years. Part of those amenities include providing residents meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious including using BrainWise super foods. These are foods known to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens. Please visit our website to learn more about our many other amenities and services at the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care.  

Why So Many Seniors are Choosing Independent Living

Statistics show approximately one million Americans reside in some type of senior living community, and by 2030, the number is expected to double. At the same time, the number of seniors 85 and older is projected to triple from 5.7 million in 2011 to 14.1 million in 2040. Within the category of senior living, there are several options available for older adults including independent living (also known as retirement communities), which is specifically designed for adults 55+.

The reason so many seniors are turning to independent living is they love the many advantages it offers. To start with residents’ get peace of mind with predictable budgeting and not having to worry about unexpected repairs or costs associated with home maintenance. Another important perk of independent living communities is built-in companionship, and in many cases, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer have to cook. 

Senior living communities like MorningStar of Billings allow seniors to enjoy stress-free retirement years, extend their independence and continue the adventure. For the most active seniors, we offer 32 private, free-standing cottages in 2-bedroom, two bath configurations. Each cottage has a one-car garage, fireplace, full kitchen and high-end finishes in floorplans from 1112 to 1236 sq. ft. We offer another 72 bright suites in our main building also for independent living.

If you are a senior requiring a little help with daily personal care, we have 70 assisted living suites and another 36 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. We are proud of the loving atmosphere that permeates throughout our home and attribute this to our exceptional care team that has helped to make our home the top choice for Billings’ families.

Located on the west side of Billings with spectacular views of the Rockies, the MorningStar of Billing’s campus boasts a serene country setting within a beautiful, park-like neighborhood that is still close to shopping centers and the medical community. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our various senior living options as well as pricing and availability. We look forward to welcoming you to your new home.

Can You Get the Flu Shot & COVID Vaccine at the Same Time?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research suggests there is no interaction between the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine and it is safe to get them at the same time. The November issue of The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal published a study involving more than 15,000 participants of which 431 received both a flu and COVID shot at the same time. Of those individuals, the majority did not have any symptoms and those who did, were mild. 

The American Medical Association recommends if you do want to get the flu and COVID vaccines during your visit, make sure the injections are at least an inch apart. This way in the event a reaction at the site does occur, your physician will be able to tell which vaccine was responsible. Dr. Greg Martin, a professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, and president of the Society for Critical Care Medicine says, “The likelihood of side effects goes up modestly, but they are likely to be mild and won’t affect your health or make you feel miserable for long.”

The CDC says a flu shot prevents getting sick from the flu in between 40% and 60% of those who are inoculated when the vaccine is well matched to that year's viruses. For many who get the flu, the vaccine helps reduce the length and severity of their illness. Doctors say it is safe for most to get the flu vaccine if you are mildly sick from a cold or the flu. However they add if your symptoms are severe, your immune system is already busy trying to recover so wait until you feel better to get the vaccine. 

*This blog is for informational purposes only, please consult your healthcare provider for further information. 

MorningStar of Billings is proud to be one of the state’s finest senior living communities and provides independent living, assisted living and memory care. We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to learn more about pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour to experience the area’s top retirement community.     

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/is-it-safe-to-take-the-covid-19-vaccine-and-the-flu-shot-at-the-same-time?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Dec%2002%2006:29:41%20EST%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

The Relationship Between Grandparents and Grandchildren

After studying the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, researchers have found it to be mutually beneficial for both parties. Additionally, since people are living longer, these relationships become even more important over time as a 2015 Boston College study reported. The data, collected over a 19-year period, “found that emotionally close ties between grandparents and adult grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms for both.” 

The study’s authors said one of the advantages for older people close to their grandchildren is they are exposed to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Grandchildren benefit from the wisdom grandparents have gained over a lifetime, and can be more open to advice from grandparents than their own parents. Grandparents also have a lot to share regarding the family history, along with the history of our country and the world.  

Another study out of England examining the relationship of children between the ages of 11-16 found children with close relationships to their grandparents had fewer emotional and behavioral problems and fewer difficulties with peers. The bond appears to help lessen the emotional damage children can experience when parents separate or divorce.

Moreover, as grandparents are typically not authoritarian figures in their grandchildren’s lives, they often act as confidants in situations where an older child might not wish to confide in a parent. Grandparents can be more objective than a parent and may have more time on their hands to really listen to their grandchildren. Another advantage to grandparenting is it gives a person purpose in their later years; however experts say to remember you are a role model for your grandchildren so make sure you are a good one.   

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our beautiful community was designed to meet residents' every need.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure comfort and wellbeing.  Visit our website to see what sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale offers, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar at Arrowhead proudly provides the best in assisted living and memory care with our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement homes Glendale, AZ has to offer.

Pets Provide Benefits to Seniors

Several studies have provided evidence suggesting pet ownership offers a range of health benefits for seniors. One of the most consistent findings is the fact that owning and caring for a pet may help seniors feel less lonesome, and with almost 1/3 of all seniors saying they are lonely, this is a good thing. In one study of pet owners ages 50 to 80: “88% said their pets help them enjoy life; 86% said their pets make them feel loved; and 79% said their pets help reduce stress.”

In addition to a pet’s unconditional love, caring for the animal provides an older person with a sense of purpose as their pet needs to be fed and cared for daily. For example, a dog encourages seniors to get outside and exercise both themselves and the animal. Studies show pets can help improve seniors’ cardiovascular health and their mental and emotional health. Other studies have shown benefits such as improved mobility, a longer life span, pain relief and a better heart attack recovery.    

While a pet can be a loving companion, it is important to pick one suited to the person’s physical health and their budget as vet bills can be costly. Cats and dogs make loyal friends but you may enjoy putting together and caring for an aquarium of exotic fish or raising songbirds. Whatever the choice, a pet is sure to bring a smile to the person’s face and help to keep them engaged on a daily basis. 

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead, our goal is to provide one of the best retirement homes Glendale, AZ offers.  We understand that your pet is an important part of your family and you would not wish to move somewhere that he or she was not welcome.  If you decide to choose our beautiful senior living community for your new home, no worries – we are pet friendly! Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ has to offer. 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: aplaceformom.com/resources/pets-for-seniors      

Assisted Living Facilitates Independence and a Healthy Lifestyle

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Billings are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many elderly adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life. 

A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar of Billings, our Executive Chef specializes in preparing tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents.  

Another problem many elderly adults have is managing medications properly. In fact the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people aged 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.”  For this reason, MorningStar of Billings offers medication management to our residents.   

Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their retirement years and live as comfortably and as safely as possible. For more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care; please see our website.

Source:  aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/

The New Year May be the Time for a Move to Assisted Living

Over the holidays many adult children have the opportunity to spend more time visiting with their parents in person rather than on the phone or over a facetime call. It is also the time when many families discover mom or dad living on their own isn’t working, and they are not actually doing as well as everyone thought. 

Experts say there are some signs to look for when visiting an elderly parent to determine if they need more help in their day-to-day life. One cause for concern can be if they have had an unintended change in their weight. Experts say weight loss is a common sign of a senior not doing well on their own. The same goes if they appear to have had a change in their balance and mobility such as difficulty getting up from a chair or walking up or down stairs, which could result in a higher risk of a fall. 

Another component of an older person’s wellbeing includes their emotional state. Do they have opportunities to get out and about and socialize or are they spending a lot of time alone and showing signs of forgetfulness or confusion? Is your formerly neat-as a pin mother now living in a home that looks neglected and untidy or is she herself looking ungroomed?

Senior living specialists explain an elderly person’s physical and mental state can decline quickly and often catch families by surprise. If you find yourself in such a situation, it may be time to have a conversation with your parents regarding in-home help or a move to an assisted living community. Homes such as MorningStar of Billings offer area seniors independent living, assisted living and memory care. We consider serving seniors to be our calling and gladly help guide families throughout the move-in process and transition to community living. Please contact us for more information and to inquire about availability and pricing in the most trusted senior living community in Billings.