Bear Creek’s Exceptional Care is Delivered with Love and Respect

MorningStar at Bear Creek understands what is needed to expertly care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. We feel it is a privilege to serve our most tender residents and we put our energies toward elevating and celebrating life.     

To ensure we meet our standard of service excellence, each of MorningStar’s team members from caregivers to dining servers or housekeepers go through our proprietary service excellence “Radiance” training.  In addition its precepts are reiterated during our daily “Huddle.”  Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness, which issues from a deep and sincere place as does a beam of light, and is the framework that guides the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth.       

As one team member from a MorningStar community writes, “Radiance training is absolutely phenomenal!”  She says she appreciates the fact that it helps team members to be their best at work as well as in their personal lives and creates an environment where residents are treated with the utmost care.  Another team member shares: “People always ask me why I love my job so much. For me it’s not always about money, but the difference you can make in someone’s life. MorningStar has done so much for me in the short time I have been here. Not only am I changing residents’ lives but they are changing mine.” 

We believe Radiance is the evidence of our resolve to be a place that is not only distinguished by compassion and care, but by service professionalism as its presence and influence is felt throughout our community.  Under its teachings, residents are treated as family members, and as such, our priority is to respond to their expressed and unexpressed needs and wishes. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek specializes in dementia care, and our purpose-built community encourages and supports a resident’s right to choose and independence to the full extent possible. Please visit our website to learn more.   

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our unique approach to dementia care.  

WellStar Program at MorningStar of Fort Collins

At MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Fort Collins we lovingly provide our residents the amenities and services to ensure their comfort and to make them feel at home. We also provide a range of activities including our creative and enriching WellStar program consisting of five wellness components – physical, spiritual, intellectual, social, and food philosophy. Designed to help seniors stay active, engaged and productive, the program offers opportunities to enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and build social connections.

Introduced by our Life Enrichment coordinator, the activities will tap into the unique talents and experiences of our residents and includes encouraging residents to start and lead special interest clubs themselves. Along with recognizing a range of capabilities and a variety of interests, the goal of our activities is to elevate the mood of our residents, reduce pain, and help them to rely less on medications. 

We know that physical exercise is imperative to seniors’ health and we offer a variety of activities for our residents’ enjoyment. In addition, meeting the spiritual needs of our residents is also important to their wellbeing, which is why a chapel, open to all faiths, is an integral part of our community. We also offer intellectual wellness with entertaining daily doses of challenging brain games designed to practice cognitive skills and introduce new ideas. In addition to all of this, is a natural, welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing and helps to strengthen the bonds of our community. 

Last but not least our wellness program includes serving residents healthy, nutritional food. This is why we have an Executive Chef on staff who will be preparing the tasty meals that are served in our beautiful dining rooms restaurant style. 

You will find the one thing that sets MorningStar of Fort Collins apart from other senior care communities is the fact that our entire team is working to build a true community and our WellStar programs exemplify that philosophy. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar of Fort Collins represents the very best in assisted living with a mission “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a tour to discover the finest senior care in the area.

The Heart of MorningStar of Fort Collins is Our Staff

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we understand that our senior community’s success lies with our caregivers. This is why one of our founding principles is to invest generously in our team members, including providing the necessary development and training required to create leaders with the ability to provide the best life possible for our residents. 

We are proud of the fact that our staff is comprised of people who champion our mission and have a sense of calling to serve seniors. They are a group of unique individuals who do the right thing when no one is watching and work diligently to perfect the art of anticipating the needs of our residents. In addition, they not only believe that senior living, at its best, is love in action but do it every day. 

As a part of our commitment to bringing together an exceptional staff, we offer generous compensation and benefit packages to each employee in an effort to recognize senior care as a respected career choice. We have found that our vetting of employees has paid off as we have a staff that works hard to ensure MorningStar of Fort Collins’ residents feel loved and cared for in every way possible. 

Furthermore, all of our in-coming staff receives Radiance training, which is reiterated and strengthened in our daily Huddle. The Radiance program celebrates an attitude of selflessness that comes from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light and reflects the way we deliver customer service at MorningStar - with warmth, sincerity and depth. The program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others and allows us to take our professionalism to the next level. We encourage you to schedule a tour of our exceptional community to experience firsthand all we offer.

MorningStar of Fort Collins represents the very best in senior living with a mission “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a tour to discover the area’s finest senior care.

Statistics on Growing Older in America

Older adults today are living longer than any other generation in the past; so it is no surprise to learn that the numbers of seniors over 65 years of age continues to grow.  Statistics show that in 2016 one of every seven Americans (49.2 million) had reached the age of 65, and the number of seniors at least 65 years or older is expected to almost double to 98 million by 2060. 

Of the number of people 65 years and older in 2016, 12.6 were women to every 10 men.  As seniors age, the gender difference becomes even greater.  For every man over 85, there are nearly two women.  Another interesting statistic from 2016 is that 82,000 seniors were 100 years old or more; but by the middle of the century, it is estimated that number will increase tenfold.   

According to a national report, Florida leads the country with almost 20% of its population over 65 years of age, which is not surprising but it may be to hear Montana is not far behind.  In fact the World Population Review estimates that by 2030, “Montana will be one of ten states in the country to have more people over the age of 65 than under the age of 18, and it will be one of only six states to have 25% of its population aged 65 and older.”   

In addition just because women live longer, it does not always mean they enjoy better health than elderly men.  The Institute on Aging states women are more likely to suffer from functional limitations.  A 2009 study reports, “about 46 percent of female Medicare enrollees age 65+ had difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) or were in a facility, compared with 35 percent of their male counterparts.”

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.  Be sure to ask about our 2-year rate freeze (rent only) for assisted living residents.  In our memory care facility, we are offering a lifetime rate (rent and care).  Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with a unique mission statement of: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Proving a true home for residents, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Offering independent and assisted living as well as memory care, we invite you to setup a tour to experience one of the area’s top senior living facilities.     

Source: forbes.com/sites/howardgleckman/2018/05/04/a-new-snapshot-of-older-adults-in-the-us/#53f7c4a839d7

http://worldpopulationreview.com/states/montana-population/

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s Assisted Living

If you are confused with what the term assisted living means, you are not alone.  Relatively a new concept, assisted living is based on the European model and is not a nursing home.  Assisted living is designed for seniors who require a little assistance with their daily personal care such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, etc.  Furthermore, rather than taking away a person’s independence, assisted living provides the services seniors need to maintain an independent lifestyle. 

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  Also regardless of your level of care, we provide all residents with around-the-clock Care Managers (at least one team member is CPR trained on each shift) to meet needs and ensure your comfort and safety.       

On the MorningStar website, we list the many clinical services available to residents including Medication Management, which is performed by Certified Med Care Managers, routine care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  In addition we have a licensed nurse on-site or on-call, and provide transportation to residents’ medical appointments.  If you or your loved one is diabetic, we offer diabetes management as well as oxygen administration services.  MorningStar also provides more advanced care such as catheter and colostomy care or palliative/hospice care. 

For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems, and is smartly-designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents.  We invite you to visit our website for more information and to set up a tour of our beautiful senior living community.

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we represent the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.      

Get Trusted Care at MorningStar for a Loved One with Dementia

When a parent or spouse is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, there are many challenges a family goes through.  It is traumatizing to get a diagnosis of the disease both for the individual as well as for the entire family.  As you come to terms with the devastating news, you are likely left with lots of questions including what will happen in the future and who will be there to provide the type of care your loved one will need.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we want you to know we are here to help. Our community proudly offers the Colorado Springs area specialized, individualized assisted living dementia care.   As dementia care experts we are equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease all the way through to the most advanced stages. 

Our holistic approach to memory care focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss, and our team of compassionate caregivers feels privileged to serve seniors.  Everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  In fact, one of our mission statements is to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals, and from this precept, comes our attentiveness to the unique voice, the rights and preferences of each resident.

Every aspect of our dementia care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Considerations When Looking for Memory Care

It is typically with mixed emotions that a family comes to the realization that their loved one needs more care than they can get at home.  When this happens, there are several things to consider as you search for the best memory care.   

One of the first things you need to know is that “memory care” is committed to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Assisted living is intended for those that require some extra care with their daily living activities in order to retain their independence and live their lives safely and comfortably.     

Many senior living communities like MorningStar at Arrowhead have a separate wing devoted to memory care residents.  Memory care staff members should have gone through specialized training in order to understand the disease as well as to effectively care for those with dementia. 

At MorningStar our Reflections Neighborhood team members are extensively trained to care for our tender residents and our community is uniquely designed to allow residents to freely move about to explore their surroundings.  You also will want to know the level of care the community is equipped to handle.  At MorningStar, we care for those from the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages.   

Other questions should include how secure is the community and what is the staff/resident ratio during the day as well as at night.   In addition, do residents receive regular health monitoring, is there a nurse on staff, and will there be a thorough intake process before your loved one joins the community?  Ask how meals are handled, and when will you be contacted if there is a problem.   

We encourage you to visit MorningStar at Arrowhead’s website to learn more about our loving, unique memory care community.  Our Reflections Neighborhood takes a holistic approach that supports choice and independence and, above all, affirms individual dignity and value. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are privileged to create a home infused with warmth and love.  Schedule a tour to see firsthand our individualized, resident-directed approach to memory care.

Source: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/memory-care-checklist

Senior Falls – Causes and Prevention

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), one out of every four Americans aged 65 and older falls every year and the majority of these falls occur at home. There are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to a fall and there are steps you can take to help decrease the likelihood of it happening. 

Many elderly adults experience a general overall decline in their physical fitness resulting in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility that make them more susceptible to a fall.  Another common problem shared by many seniors is impaired vision.  This can make it more difficult to detect fall hazards such as steps, thresholds, and obstacles and changes in the ground.  

Certain types of medications, especially the side effects, can cause drowsiness, dizziness or low blood pressure, which can all increase the risk of a fall.  Also keep in mind it is not just prescription drugs but over-the-counter medications can contribute to balance problems as well.  Other factors that make seniors more susceptible to falls are chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis as well as surgical procedures including hip or knee replacement.    

The NIA recommends installing night lights in the hallways and bathrooms and to have a light switch and phone within reach of the bed.  Keep walkways free of clutter and avoid using throw rugs and area carpets.  Use hand rails when going up and down the stairs, and if you have a pet, make sure they are not underfoot.  In the bathroom, install grab bars in the tub and near the toilet, and use non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our loving assisted living dementia care community makes residents’ safety and wellbeing a priority.  We provide 24-hour care, a licensed nurse on call 24/7, and provide suites equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms with grab bars, emergency call system and more.  

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

As One Resident Says, “Morningstar Is a Wonderful Place to Live!”

As it turns out, not only do we feel that we are one of the area’s finest senior living facilities, but many of our residents and families are glad to tell us they agree!  You cannot imagine how gratifying this is for the entire MorningStar of Billings’ team, as we are dedicated to providing residents with all the care and services they need for carefree retirement years. 

One of the things we always encourage interested families to do is to schedule a tour with us.  We sincerely believe that you cannot experience the loving, warm atmosphere of the Billing’s community without a firsthand view.  Therefore to hear the following from a resident’s family member was music to our ears.  They write, “I walked into a beautiful and clean community. The tour was fantastic and informative. After touring other facilities in Billings, I felt most comfortable having my parents here at MorningStar!”

We were again reminded of how very proud we are of our loving team as we read the words of another family member who writes that her mother has been a MorningStar resident for over a year and a half.   She ends her note by saying, “The quality of her life has improved dramatically. She’s made lots of friends, and is much more active than she was before. I highly recommend MorningStar.”

From the wise words of a resident who sums up the MorningStar of Billings’ experience as “Great apartment, good food, great management, and pleasant residents. A great place to live,” we think it says it all.  We invite area families to visit our website to set up a tour or to inquire about pricing and availability.  Be sure to ask us about our Lifetime Rate offer in memory care (rent & care included) and a Two-Year Rate Freeze (rent only) offer in assisted living.  Both are available for a limited time.   

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to set up a tour to one of Billings’ foremost senior living facilities.

Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Medical News Today reports that there is most likely already a significant amount of tissue damage in the brain by the time a person starts to display the common signs of Alzheimer’s.  This has prompted scientists to propose that specific psychiatric symptoms such as “depression, anxiety, sleep disruption, and loss of appetite – may serve as markers of very early brain changes in Alzheimer's.”     

Several groups of researchers, including the University of California in San Francisco and the Brazilian Biobank for Aging Studies (BBAS) at the University of São Paulo, recently published a paper based on their findings in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.  Studying postmortem brain tissue tests, the group compared them to a range of psychiatric symptoms they discovered in the individuals after speaking to people who knew the deceased well.  This has lead researchers to suggest that the person’s “psychiatric symptoms are not the cause of Alzheimer’s but more likely early indicators of the disease.”   

Researchers say that identifying such symptoms as the early signs of Alzheimer’s may help doctors to diagnose the disease much earlier and give the person more opportunity to take steps to slow the progression of the disease.  In addition scientists note that earlier diagnoses could save trillions of dollars in future medical costs and care.   

If you are looking at Alzheimer homes in the Colorado Springs area, we invite you to contact us to learn more about MorningStar at Bear Creek.  Our highly trained loving and compassionate team are dementia care specialists that feel privileged to serve our most “tender residents.”  We also consider caring and supporting family members as part of our job as we understand that dementia can be a scary road.  Please visit our website to inquire about availability and pricing as well as to set up a tour.   

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in Alzheimer homes with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our exceptional community. 

Source:  medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323366.php

Luxury Senior Living Offering a 5 Star Dining Experience

MorningStar of Billings strives to provide residents with all of the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years.  As part of those amenities, we proudly offer residents meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious.   

Daily meals are prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, Jim Carlson.  Jim grew up Minnesota where every Sunday his family dined with the residents of a skilled nursing home where father was the administrator.  Early-on, Jim was impressed with the residents’ various life stories, and gained an abiding respect for his elders. 

MorningStar of Billings’ cuisine is much the richer for Jim’s many stints as a chef in restaurants of every ethnicity and style, from American diners to haute cuisine, and from hotels to catering.  Throughout this vast experience, Jim learned he loved working at places where he had “regulars” that allowed him to honed his skills at perfecting a meal just how the customer wanted it.   

Senior living is an ideal fit for Jim as it gives him a steadfast group of regulars that are both appreciative and loyal.  His delightful meals serve the needs of our independent and assisted living residents by evoking the traditional fare of their generation.  Prepared largely from scratch, each meal includes the freshest ingredients and Jim is open to all suggestions from our residents.   

Our meals also include BrainWise super foods that are known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These include foods such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens.   

Please visit MorningStar of Billings to learn more about our wide variety of amenities and services.  Currently we are offering a 2-year rate freeze for our assisted living suites (rent only) and a lifetime rate for memory care (suite and care).  Use our convenient online links to find out about availability and pricing or to set up a tour.   

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Please visit our website to set up a tour to see firsthand why we are one of Billings’ best senior living facilities. 

Tips on How to Help Your Parent Transition to Assisted Living

We know people react differently to the many challenges we face in our lifetime, so it is no surprise that some individuals have a more difficult time adapting to senior living. Experts surmise that one of the reasons may be is that some seniors end up feeling that the decision was thrust on them, and a decline in their health left them with few choices. 

It is important for families to keep in mind that the first few months will probably be the most difficult adjustment period for their loved one.  In fact, once the initial transition is over, studies show that many older adults actually prefer the lifestyle senior living offers. 

To assist your loved one with the transition, experts recommend a few things family member can do to help the process along.  They explain that it is especially important during the first few weeks to visit frequently, but also caution against being too protective.  Spending too much time with your loved one during their adjustment period can be counterproductive and may prevent them from adapting on their own. 

Another thing that will help is to encourage your parent to participate in the community’s activities.  The more involved they get in the community, the more likely they are to make new friends and start to feel at home.  

Also take the time to help them personalize their suite by adding treasured mementos and framed family photos as well as wall art they loved from their last home.  Add in furnishings like a comfy chair and a cozy throw in a color they love.  Furthermore is space is at a premium, consider mounting the TV on a wall.  When helping to decorate, do not forget safety.  Make sure cords are safely tucked away and not in endanger of becoming trip hazards and that pathways are uncluttered and free of objects that could cause a fall. 

Visit MorningStar of Billings website to learn more about one of the area’s premium senior assisted living facilities.  Our beautiful community offers independent living, assisted living and memory care.  

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents.  Please set up an appointment to experience firsthand one of the area’s best senior living facilities.     

Source:  assistedliving.com/helping-elderly-aging-parents-adjust-senior-living-01112013/

Medicare Offers Free Services

Many seniors on Medicare are unaware of some of the benefits provided that make it easier to take better care of your health.  Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), free preventive care was expanded including a range of free services to Medicare recipients.

One of the services offered to a new Medicare recipient is a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit during the first 12 months you are on Part B.  During your visit, your physician will review your medical history and screen you for a variety of conditions including a risk for depression and update vaccinations.  They will also discuss future services you may need.   If you have already been on Medicare Part B for more than 12 months, you are eligible for a free annual wellness visit.  Please keep in mind that while this visit is offered at no cost, your doctor may order tests or procedures not covered by Medicare. 

Other wellness services offered to Medicare recipients at no cost include an annual screening mammogram. (If you have a diagnostic mammogram, you will be responsible for a copay and a Part B deductible.)   If you are a senior with a history of high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, obesity, high blood sugar levels, or other qualifying conditions, you are eligible for two free diabetes screenings a year.  

If you are not at risk for colorectal cancer, you are entitled to a free colonoscopy once every ten years.  Anyone at high risk is eligible for a colonoscopy every 24 months.  All males on Medicare are eligible for an annual free PSA test.  Additionally, Medicare will pay for annual flu shots, vaccines to prevent pneumococcal infections such as pneumonia, and shots for hepatitis B (for those at high or medium risk).   Currently the Shingles vaccine is not covered by Medicare Part A or B (check to see if it is covered by your supplemental plan).   

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in Alzheimer homes with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our exceptional community. 

Source: aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-2017/medicare-free-medical-tests-fd.html

Read the Rave Reviews for MorningStar at Arrowhead!

We think that Morningstar at Arrowhead offers the finest in retirement homes but you do not have to just take our word for it.  With a mission to ensure the every comfort and wellbeing of our residents, we feel honored to have so many families as well as residents express their appreciation and high regard for our community. We would like to take a moment to share a few. 

One example comes from a family member of a former resident.  She states that her Mom was a resident at MorningStar at Arrowhead for the last eight months of her life.  She also says, “While I am saddened by her death, the whole experience at MorningStar was good. I definitely recommend them. The staff made my Mom very comfortable and I was pleased with the quality of care she received.” 

We were especially gratified when the son of a resident wrote a glowing review where he explains how happy his mother is living in our community.  He says, “From the very first interaction, it was apparent that they treat their residents more like guests than like patients. This is true from the staff in the dining room all the way up to the management level staff. They are all very friendly, professional and polite, courteous and great to deal with. They communicate well and are upfront about everything.”  He ends his review by stating that, “There also seems to be a spiritual component to the facility that makes my mother feel comfortable and gives me confidence that choosing MorningStar Assisted Living was the right decision. She is being well taken care of.” 

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we have 60 private assisted living suites on two levels.  Our gorgeous suites are available in a variety of configurations including spacious studio and one and two-bedroom floorplans with some over 600 square feet.  We have another 25 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please visit our website for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead provides the very best in retirement homes with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  We invite you to schedule a tour to discover our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.  

Do You have Questions about Senior Living Facilities?

Many families know next to nothing about senior living facilities when they first begin to look at the various options available for a loved one.  At MorningStar of Billings, we understand it is important to have answers ready for all of the questions and concerns that family members may have regarding our senior living community.

In fact even before you contact us, you can visit our website and browse through the many informative resources we offer.  To get a sense of our history, mission and philosophy as well as the type of services we assume both locally and globally, take a few minutes to read through MorningStar’s “Our Heart” links.

To find answers to some of the questions you may have regarding care and services, we encourage you to take a look at our FAQs page.  One important question is how our prices are structured.  For assisted living residents, monthly rental fees are based on the apartment’s square footage, location within the building, views and suite choices along with the level of care we will provide (based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director).  Also we offer various auxiliary medical and non-medical services priced a la carte.

Another important resource from MorningStar is our Decision Guide, which is designed to help families decide whether the time is right for Senior Living, particularly Assisted Living.  You will find warning signs to look for and advice on how best to broach the subject of making the move to a senior assisted living facility. 

Please keep in mind that while it is a great way to familiarize your family with the many care services offered by MorningStar of Billings, our team is more than happy to answer any questions not addressed.  As one of the area’s leading senior living facilities, our community has 32 free-standing cottages and 72 bright suites for independent living and 70 assisted living suites.  We have 36 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. 

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with a unique mission statement of: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Proving a true home for residents, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to setup a tour to experience firsthand the loving atmosphere of one of the area’s top senior assisted living facilities.

We Provide Support to Families

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we do not just care for our residents’ needs but also provide support to their families.  We know that a dementia diagnosis and prognosis is met with all kinds of questions and anxiety, and part of our job is to help families cope with the uncertainty.  As they try to adjust to their new reality, we deliver hope, and for the memory-impaired, hope comes wrapped in intentionality and creativity.  

Our extensive experience in dementia care has shown us that healing always comes from human touch, from empathy, and from purposeful engagement.  Dementia sufferers live in a purple world – an alternative reality, and the best way to reach them is to “get purple” too.  Right from the beginning of our relationship with a resident, we find out as much as we can about their history, their preferences and special talents and use that to help us sort through what their behavior is really trying to communicate.  For example, if a resident is getting agitated and saying they must go home, we respond with, “Tell me about your home; what is it like? Why do you love it so?”   

In addition our team encourages families not to dwell on what has been lost but rather to be surprised by what is found.  We have discovered that if we truly enter the moment, we can embrace what comes next.  To help guide our families, we recommend they learn as much as they can about the disease because with understanding, comes acceptance.  We also think it is beneficial to join an Alzheimer’s Association support group.  Lastly our families are always welcomed and encouraged to join us as we participate in one of our Alzheimer’s Association events to help raise funds and awareness of the disease.  

Please visit our website to learn more about our compassionate, loving community.  While you are there, use the link on our home page to setup a tour or to inquire about pricing and availability.   

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with a mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are committed to creating a true home for residents in a magnificent setting. Contact us to schedule a visit to learn more about our loving dementia care. 

Why Choose MorningStar of Billings?

You may have found that there are several senior living facilities in and around Billings and may be wondering what sets MorningStar of Billings apart from all the others.  To start with, we offer seniors a wide range of senior living options that start with our comfortable independent living with private suites and spacious common areas including a pool.  MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities.  For our most active seniors, we offer stylish patio homes situated on our beautiful park-like campus.   

We are also proud to have earned a reputation as one of the leading memory care facilities in the Western U.S.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers a holistic approach to caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.   

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

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

We invite you to visit our website for more information.  While you are there, follow our link to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful community.  We want you to know we are offering a 2-year rate freeze (rent only) for assisted living, and a lifetime rate on memory care (on both rent and care) for a limited time.   

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents.  Visit our website to schedule an appointment to tour one of the area’s premier senior living facilities.     

UTIs Can Go Undetected in the Elderly

If a young woman experiences burning and irritation when urinating, she visits her doctor and is most likely diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI).  However it can be a different story for elderly adults as they rarely have any of the common symptoms or discomforts associated with UTIs and may be unaware they have an infection.  Anna Treinkman, a nurse practitioner at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago and president of the National Conference of Gerontological Nurse Practitioners, explains that as we age, our immune response changes and no longer functions at optimal levels.     

UTIs are the body’s second most common infection and are generally easy to treat.  However in the elderly, an undetected UTI can mimic other, much more serious conditions including dementia.  “UTIs, for instance, are a leading cause of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the bloodstream.” 

UTI symptoms in the elderly can also manifest in a range of behaviors such as disorientation, agitation, confusion, dizziness and poor motor skills.  These in turn can increase the risk for falls and even result in depression or sudden urinary incontinence.  Another reason the UTI may go untreated is that the symptoms are attributed to more serious illnesses or simply to old age. 

If you suspect a UTI, a simple urinalysis can be performed to confirm the infection and get treatment started.  Most cases are cured by antibiotics within a few days to a few weeks depending on the severity of the infection and other health problems affecting the person. 

Along with medication, your doctor will recommend drinking four to six 8-ounce glasses water a day, and may ask that you add cranberry juice or cranberry tablets to your diet.  This will help flush the infection from the system. 

As one of the top senior living facilities in Billings, MT, MorningStar of Billings provides the area with independent living, assisted living and memory care.  We encourage you to visit our website to set up a tour or to inquire about pricing and availability.    

This blog is for informational purposes only.  Please consult your healthcare provider

if you experience any medical problem. 

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with a unique mission statement of: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Proving a true home for residents, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Providing independent and assisted living and memory care, we invite you to schedule a tour to experience one of the area’s top senior living facilities.     

Source:

aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/elderly-urinary-tract-infections

seniorliving.org/healthcare/uti/

How to Choose the Best Walker for Your Needs

Many older adults, especially those in senior assisted living facilities, are no longer as steady on their feet as they used to be.  This puts them in danger of a fall, which can have many serious repercussions on a seniors’ health.  If you are considering getting a Walker to help you move more safely around, you need to know something about them. 

For starters since there are several kinds of Walkers, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assist you on finding the most suitable one.  They will make sure it is your size as well as the right type.  To determine size, you should be able to stand between the rails, and the width of the Walker should be level with the insides of your wrists. A professional will also teach you how to use the Walker and provide tips for normal activities such as sitting down while using a walker.  This is done by backing up until you feel the seat of the chair behind you.  Now bend forward at your hip and reach behind with one hand to grab the armrest.  Do the same with your other hand as you carefully lower yourself onto the center of the chair.        

Common types of Walkers include a basic Walker that has four legs with rubber tips on each one.  To use, a person must pick up the Walker as they take a step.   A wheeled Walker can have two fixed wheels on the front that do not swivel side to side or have rubber tips on the front legs and small wheels on the back.  These Walkers allow people to walk more naturally as they do not need to be picked up with each step.  A three-wheel walker has one wheel in front and two in back and offers the advantage of being lighter and easier to move around in smaller spaces. 

Rollators are four-wheeled Walkers and can be equipped with a seat for a basket.  These Walkers are quipped with hand brakes and are ideal for people who do not need to apply a lot of weight to the Walker.  However they are not recommended for people with dementia as they may forget to use the hand brake.  Please visitMorningStar of Billings to learn more about one of the area’s top choices in senior assisted living facilities. 

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to set up a tour to one of Billings’ foremost senior living facilities.