Finding a Memory Care Community

If your parent or spouse is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, at some point, you may need to find a community that specializes in caring for them.  Given the progression of the disease, your loved one may eventually require 24-hour supervised care that is specifically designed to provide the level of safety and care they need.   

What important questions should you ask when looking for specialized care for a family member with a dementia related disease? A Place for Mom offers a checklist on their website to those considering a memory care facility for a loved one.  One of their first recommendations is to make sure that the community you are considering is fully equipped to care for the needs of your loved one.    

In order to determine the level of care your parent or spouse requires, they suggest making a list of their medical and physical needs starting with their level of mobility and do they use a walker or wheelchair?  Also besides dementia, what other illnesses or health concerns do they suffer from?  It is important to explain any issues your loved one may have regarding aggression or other behaviors.   

Next you need to ask the community some questions beginning with the staff to resident ratio during the day as well as at night and what type training does the staff go through.  Be sure to ask whether there is a nurse on staff and if the place has a visiting physician.  Also are residents given an individualized plan?  Furthermore, what are the living arrangements and security measures in place to ensure the safety of residents?  Do residents have a separate dining area and a safe outdoor space?  

Now ask questions about the community’s treatment plans and the type of care they provide to residents.  Do they engage in programs such as pet, music and/or reminiscence therapy?  Are residents grouped according to cognitive level and is there a place for those in the early stages?  Finally, after thorough consideration, you may just need to trust your instincts and choose the place you feel will provide the best care for your loved one.      

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.  

MorningStar 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 provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care facility. 

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

MorningStar at Arrowhead Proudly Welcomes Veterans

MorningStar at Arrowhead is pleased to provide families with ideas for additional financial solutions beyond traditional retirement savings and investment income to help pay for assisted living.  On our website, you will find extensive information on several under-utilized financial benefits and resources including a full explanation of the generous “Aid & Attendance” pension from the US Department of Veteran Affairs.  

Aid & Attendance is a monthly benefit payment available to certain wartime veterans and their survivors who qualify for financial need and have a doctor’s order for regular assistance with daily living activities.  To be eligible, the vet must have served for at least 90 days of active duty with at least one of those days spent serving during a period of a foreign war.  Furthermore, the vet cannot have been dishonorably discharged.  The benefit does not require the vet to have served overseas, seen combat or retired from the military.  Surviving spouses of the vet are also eligible for the Aid & Attendance pension if they were married to the vet at the time of their death and have not remarried.      

When we find out that a vet or the family of a vet is interested in our senior living community, we are pleased to direct them to local resources that can help to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance.  In every state including Arizona, there is a Department of Military/Veteran Affairs staffed with Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) who will help you complete the 41-page Aid & Attendance application free of charge.  The approval process typically takes 3 to 4 months. 

Throughout our many MorningStar’s communities, we are privileged to have veterans from all five branches of military service call us home.  Please visit our website and take a look at our Family Resources information regarding ways to finance assisted living including “Aid & Attendance” pension benefits for Veterans.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is Designed to Meet Every Need

If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of memory loss, you may want to contact one of Colorado Springs’ premier Alzheimer homes, MorningStar at Bear Creek.  Our 48-suite community is equipped to care for someone in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.    

To ensure our residents feel right at home and that their every need is met, we provide a full range of amenities and services.  From the moment you walk through our door, you will discover a loving home filled with warm and inviting common areas throughout that offer a safe environment for residents to move about freely.  Our spacious community has two living rooms, a gathering room with double-sided hearth and aquarium, a sensory room, bistro, full salon, secure courtyards, strolling paths, and resident gardening beds.  We also provide transportation for scheduled outings, trips to doctor appointments and other errands.   

All residents are encouraged to participate in a full range of daily wellness programs and activities designed to support and engage their physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connections.  Each day is begun with physical exercise which is suitable for our residents.  We also offer musical entertainment and sing-alongs as well as planned outings such as scenic drives.  A few examples of our scheduled activities include Sit & Be Fit, Fitness Friday, Scrapbook Fun, Bingo, Trivia, Art Class and Sensory & Board Games.   

Furthermore, the MorningStar at Bear Creek family has fun celebrating holidays and participating in special events such as our “Longest Day” activities in support of the Alzheimer’s Association.  On St Patrick’s Day, residents, staff, and families all enjoyed a tasty lunch and a performance by the Celtic Steps School of Irish Dance.  

Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand our unique approach to memory care.  As dementia care specialists, we feel privileged to walk alongside our residents and their families on this unexpected journey. 

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.

Are You Caring for a Loved One with Dementia?

The most recent statistics from the Alzheimer's Association indicate that one in ten people 65 years and older in the U.S. have Alzheimer's, and as baby boomers age, the total number of cases is expected to grow.  Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association cites a statistic showing that more than 16 million Americans are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. If you are currently in that position, remember you are not alone and there are many resources designed to help.  

It is a fact that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a big job and it can take a toll on the health and well being of a family caretaker, which is why it is imperative to recognize when the task becomes too difficult.  This is the time to make meaningful lifestyle changes for both you and the person with dementia, and one option is to look into a senior care community that offers specialized memory care.

At A Place for Mom website, they discuss some of the reasons why memory care should be considered for both the safety of the person suffering with the disease as well as for the benefit of caretakers.  The habit of “wandering” is one of those circumstances and can be a frequent problem of dementia, posing a safety risk including an increase in falls and injuries. Another common trait of Alzheimer’s is a condition known as “Sundowner syndrome,” which causes a person to become agitated and to exhibit aggressive behavior later in the day that can be very disruptive.   

Also, memory care communities like the Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Fort Collins are specifically designed to safely and securely care for a person with dementia unlike most private homes.   In addition, memory care offers 24/7 care providers that are available to deal with situations even in the dead of night. Furthermore, as the disease progresses, care needs become even more demanding and can be overwhelming for a family caregiver.    

MorningStar of Fort Collins represents the very best in senior care 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 assisted living and memory care in the area.

Sources:  alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figuresaplaceformom.com/blog/2013-3-11-signs-its-time-for-assisted-living/

Learn More About Senior Living Options

The population of aging adults continues to grow and so does the demand for quality housing solutions and services.   To make it easier for people to find senior housing that best meets their needs, the following is an explanation of the terms you will come across while shopping for a new home for you or your loved one.    

One popular senior living option is referred to as “independent living.” These are apartments or suites designed specifically for older adults who want the advantages associated with senior living communities, but do not require any assistance.   Residents benefit from the amenities, activities and companionship of community living.  While each community differs, services may include light housekeeping and laundry as well as on-site beauty shops and spas, exercise rooms and wellness classes.  Some communities also provide emergency response at night.   

Another term used to describe senior living is “assisted living.”  This is housing that is geared toward those who need various levels of assistance with their daily activities.  Generally a resident’s needs are evaluated and agreed upon with the senior and their family.  Assisted living communities provide daily meals as well as around-the-clock care to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.  Most facilities offer wellness programs, social activities, housekeeping services, 24-hour care, scheduled transportation and more.   

Lastly another form of senior living is “memory care” that is devoted to the specialized care of individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  The best communities offer their residents comprehensive care that includes recreational and purposeful activities, scheduled outings and daily health monitoring.    

We invite you to take a look at MorningStar Senior Living of Billings.  We have a choice of independent living, assisted living and memory care options.  Our spacious, private cottages and suites are available in a variety of well-designed floor plans and have details reflective of those found throughout our beautifully appointed community.   

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 provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

MorningStar’s Signature “Wellness Program” for Life Enrichment

MorningStar at Arrowhead senior living community offers lots of amenities and services for our residents including our signature Wellness Program.  Committed to the idea that there is always a reason to start the day confident in the promise it holds, our program strives to engage the mind, body and spirit.  We recognize it is important for seniors to continue learning and contributing.  

MorningStar’s Wellness Program is designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate your brain and encourage connection through a range of physical, intellectual, spiritual and social activities.  Each day our Life Enrichment team will present creative ways to help residents keep active and productive as well as have fun.   

By offering such a wide span of activities and programs, we are certain our residents will find something that peaks their interest.  For example, on a typical day this month our assisted living schedule includes MorningStar Steppers (our dance group), Coffee Connection, Daily Chronicle, Reminiscing the Good Old Days, WellStar Exercise, Bingo, Brain Teasers, Cards or Games, Movie Night, and more.   Also, if we do not already offer it, we encourage our talented residents to form and lead special interest clubs and activities. 

We also offer special activities that may include trips to local cultural events, museums and scenic drives.  Our monthly calendars of activities are posted on our home page each month so future residents and their families can get an idea of what goes on at MorningStar at Arrowhead.  You can also check our “Life Around our House” and “Upcoming Events” to see recent happening and events at our community.  Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arrowhead, “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 the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

“Radiance” Guides the Way MorningStar at Bear Creek Delivers Service

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we provide exemplary service to our residents to ensure their utmost comfort, wellbeing and safety.  To achieve this, we recognize it could not be done without the help of our team members who we consider to be the very heartbeat of the Bear Creek community. 

Our team consists of a unique group of individuals who have a felt calling to serve.  They are the kind of people who do the right thing even when no one is watching, and have perfected the art of anticipating needs and going the extra mile.  MorningStar’s team members see seniors as heroes and feel privileged to have a rewarding career that offers both professional as well as personal growth. 

To guide us in our service, all team members, including our management team, are guided by Radiance, our exclusive brand standard of Service Excellence.  The program’s precepts are introduced to every team member upon being hired, and then reiterated and strengthened every day during our daily Huddle.        

Radiance allows us to take service professionalism to the next level and offers a purposeful way for us to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.  As “Radiance” is like a beam of light, it epitomizes the ways we serve others – with warmth, sincerity, and depth and is reiterated through interpersonal communications and special touches throughout our home.   

We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our Radiance program as well as our personalized, loving dementia care.  MorningStar at Bear Creek is honored to have earned the “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” designation from the Colorado Alzheimer’s Association.   This special recognition of our expertise in serving the memory-impaired was earned by enrolling at least 75% of our staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals.

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.  

Learn More About Memory Care

If a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia and you are looking for the best care, a memory care community may be your answer.  While typically more expensive than a regular assisted living community, it is equipped to provide the most comprehensive care.   

Memory care communities such as MorningStar at Bear Creek care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Services include 24-hour supervision and typically offer a secure environment specifically designed to keep residents safe and secure. This means residents are encouraged to be as independent as possible and are free to explore their surroundings.      

Another thing to know about dementia care is that it has evolved through the years.  Today’s communities now offer wellness programs that help deal with memory impairment and wandering issues as well as other common dementia behaviors.  At MorningStar, we provide residents a number of specialized programs and highly personalized care that address their unique needs.    

Studies also show residents in memory care communities have a higher quality of life.  A Place for Mom, the largest senior living referral website, reports that residents in memory care have “reduced medication and medication side effects; fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; increased nutrition and wellness; and greater independence and social interaction.”  They also add that close to 75 percent of residents experience an improvement or maintenance of mental functioning.    

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences.  MorningStar at Bear Creek recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we are grateful we can provide the support they need.  Please visit our website to learn more about our individualized, holistic memory care.   

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.  

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-11-4-memory-care/

A Memory Care Facility Designed to Feel Like Home!

As one of the area’s top senior living communities, we feel it is our calling, and our privilege, to provide loving, compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  With 36 secure, memory care suites, we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Also as our memory care is located in a separate wing we call Reflections Neighborhood, it is designed to allow residents the independence to move freely and safely about in their expansive surroundings.   

In fact every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar of Billings’ family, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities and scheduled outings and events. 

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program is another reflection of our Radiance culture and provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security and holistic solutions to challenging behaviors.  

Along with memory care, we offer exceptional independent living and assisted living.   Please visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents.   

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 schedule a tour to experience firsthand our loving, home-like memory care facility. 

Hearing Loss is Common Among Seniors

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults.   They state that, “Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing.”

Hearing loss may result in difficulty following a conversation as well as the danger of not properly hearing a doctor’s advice.  Many older adults cannot hear the doorbell or may have trouble responding to alarms and other warning devices such as a smoke detector. 

The NIDCD lists several signs that may indicate you are suffering from hearing loss.  These include things like having problems hearing the TV or radio at levels that are loud enough for others or a reluctance to attend family gatherings and church services. 

Common causes of hearing loss are a condition called presbycusis, which is gradual hearing loss that seems to run in families or exposure to loud noise over an extended period of time.  Other things that can increase your risk for hearing loss include earwax build-up, diabetes, listening to music with earbuds, and being overweight.

Your hearing loss may also be due to your medication.  The AARP reports that according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “more than 200 drugs, ranging from over-the-counter medications to chemotherapy, can damage hearing.”  Even common pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen have been linked to a higher risk of hearing loss when taken for six or more years as reported by a Brigham and Women’s Hospital 2016 study. 

If you feel you may be experiencing hearing problems, you will need to see a doctor to be tested.  Furthermore, since there are many reasons for hearing loss, treatment options will vary depending on the cause. 

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.

Are You Worried About Your Parent’s Memory Loss or Confusion?

Have you recently noticed some signs of memory loss or confusion in a parent or another loved one?  Are you worried it may be the beginning of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  We understand this may be a touchy subject to broach with your loved one, which is why experts recommend you do your homework first and learn about the common signs of the disease.    

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that Alzheimer’s can cause changes in cognitive abilities, executive function and behavior.  Those afflicted may start having memory problems along with difficulty completing familiar tasks.  They may also become confused as to time and place.  Other problems involve a marked change in their judgement and trouble with language skills and abstract thinking.  Mood swings or changes in personality can also signal Alzheimer’s.  All of these are common signs that can point to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia but only a specialist can make a diagnosis.  You should ask your parent’s healthcare provider for a recommendation to a neurologist who will perform tests to eliminate other causes for the behavior.      

If you are looking for assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar at Bear Creek.  Our community is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our memory care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages. Please contact us for more information about our compassionate, loving community. We look forward to meeting you and your family.   

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.

Find FAQs about MorningStar at Arrowhead on Our Website

Committed to providing one of the best retirement communities Peoria and Glendale has to offer, MorningStar at Arrowhead has suites for both assisted living and memory care.   Assisted living at MorningStar provides residents various levels of support with the activities of daily living, while the Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

Conveniently located on the north side of Glendale, MorningStar offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with stylish well-designed floorplans and inviting common areas. We encourage you to browse through our website and read about the exceptional care and resources we offer.   

One good place for general information is at our Family Resources section that offers a whole range of answers to FAQs.  It is here you will find that MorningStar was founded in 2003 in Denver and that we are not just a family of senior living communities, but of senior loving homes.  We consider our residents the heroes and recognize it is our “privilege to serve and our pleasure to love all beneath our roof.”  And while we are rooted in Judeo-Christian beliefs, we welcome all faiths in our residents and team members.   

Other questions that get answered include information about our age requirements.  It is 62 years or older for our assisted living and memory care.  And in case you wondered, of course couples are welcome and a suite can also be shared by friends who enjoy one another’s company.  

While pricing is discussed, we encourage you to contact us for more precise information.  As a general overview, our apartment suites’ monthly rental fee is based on square footage, location within the building and views.  If your family member will be in an assisted living suite, we offer five levels of care that are established after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director.  Medical and non-medical auxiliary services are priced a la carte.   Memory care is all-inclusive and residents are charged one package price.  

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to one of the finest retirement communities Peoria, Glendale and the surrounding area offers.

The Risk of Falling is Greater for Those with Dementia

A report in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society noted that while falls are extremely common in seniors 65 years of age and older, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease are at an even greater risk.  Statistics show that approximately one in three seniors fall each year.  The rate is more than doubled in those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, in fact 70% of those with dementia fall at least once each year.

Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and with staying focused on the task at hand.  Another reason for a fall is certain medications that can cause drowsiness.  Whatever the reason, falling can be a big problem for seniors who live alone and have cognition issues as they may not have access to help when they need it.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our loving assisted living dementia care is designed to address the unique needs of our most tender residents to ensure their safety and comfort.  Furthermore, as one of the area’s leading dementia care specialists, our community was designed from the ground up to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life.

Our community offers 48 secure suites, and includes studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans.  We are also equipped to provide compassionate dementia care from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar and all of the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

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 for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.  

Source: alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/

Touring an Assisted Living Community

Looking for Alzheimer homes in the Colorado Springs area?  At A Place for Mom’s website, the largest assisted living referral service, they offer tips for touring a senior community.  During the tour make sure you think about you or your loved one actually living at the community.   Look around and see if you notice a general feeling of uncleanliness and/or unpleasant odors?  Do staff members seem friendly and are they making eye contact and appear to be listening to residents?  

Be sure to ask about the ratio of staff to residents and what type of training they receive as well as security measures and safety accommodations.    Don’t forget to take the time to meet with the management team and ask them about the community’s mission.  Its also recommended to eat a meal at the community as it will give you a chance to share leisurely time with the residents.  In addition, you get to experience for yourself the community’s cuisine.          

We would like to invite you to set up a tour of MorningStar at Bear Creek in order to experience our beautiful, loving community in person.  As dementia care specialists, our community is set up to provide care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other type of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  We feel honored to walk alongside and support each resident and their family as they go through this difficult journey. 

On our website, you will find a convenient link to schedule a tour or give us a call.  As we tailor the tour to your priorities, we recommend you allow at least 45 minutes so you can get a good look at our entire community.  We also invite you to join us for lunch (just let us know when you set up your tour).  If you do want to join us, please set aside at least 90 minutes. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in Alzheimer homes and dementia care 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 unique approach to memory care.   

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/tips-for-touring-assisted-living

Poor Health is Associated with Greater Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia need to maintain their overall health as studies have found that poor health is associated with greater symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  This is why experts stress the importance of being under the care of a qualified doctor and following good health habits such as exercise, eating nutrient-rich meals, and properly caring for any chronic or new health problems.   

Doctors also advise the individual should have routine hearing and vision exams and any problems be treated appropriately.  Along with being seen by their primary care provider, the person should see specialists as needed.  The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation explains that co-existing medical conditions may negatively impact Alzheimer’s behaviors. They state one example where “frequent urinary tract infections may increase wandering, and depression disrupts sleep and deepens social withdrawal.”    

While it is important for all seniors to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, it is especially so for people with dementia as they may experience problems with eating.  Nerve damage associated with the disease may result in extreme eating disorders such as overeating or not eating at all.  The person may also have trouble smelling and tasting or chewing food and digesting it, so what they do eat needs to be healthy.  In later stages of the disease, the person may also have difficulty using a knife or fork.   

As one of Colorado Springs foremost Alzheimer homes, MorningStar at Bear Creek understands the disease and the different stages it takes.  Our team of dementia care specialists creates an individualized care plan for each resident based on their needs, personality and preferences.  With 48 secure suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations including spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments, we are sure to have one that fits your needs.  Please contact us for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour to experience our compassionate, loving community.    

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 contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Understanding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The COPD Foundation states that, “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory (non-reversible) asthma, and some forms of bronchiectasis.”  As COPD progresses, it results in increasing breathlessness as the lungs are further damaged.  The damage is permanent and is the 4th leading cause of death for people 65 to 84 years old.   

Often in the early stages, people mistake the symptoms of COPD with fatigue and getting older.  In addition, many people may have the disease for years before experiencing the symptoms of COPD that includes breathlessness, wheezing, or a chronic cough.  

You may be at risk for COPD if you have a history of long-term smoking, a job that exposed you to dust or chemicals or other indoor air pollutants, second-hand smoke exposure, or lots of exposure to outdoor air pollution.  You may additionally be at risk if you had lots of respiratory infections as a child or have a genetic risk factor for emphysema that is related to a deficiency of the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin protein in the bloodstream. 

COPD is diagnosed with a simple procedure known as a spirometry test that measures how well your lungs are working.  If your results show signs of COPD, you will need to consult with your doctor regarding treatment.  It is important for anyone with COPD to get a yearly flu shot and a vaccine for pneumonia as they can help to prevent some infections.  Good nutrition and staying as active as possible is also important.  

The Mayo Clinic reminds anyone diagnosed with COPD that is not the end of the world.   They say most people have a mild form of the disease and require little therapy other than to quit smoking.  For more advanced cases, there are effective therapies available to “control symptoms, reduce your risk of complications and exacerbations, and improve your ability to lead an active life.”

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar 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 for dementia residents in Colorado Springs.

Take a Few Minutes to Prepare for Your Next Healthcare Visit

We have all had the experience of visiting our doctor’s and afterward thinking of questions we wished we had thought to ask.  The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), a division of the U.S. Dept. of Human Health & Services, says asking questions and providing information to your healthcare providers, actually helps to improve your care.  Also when you actively participate in your care, it helps build trust between you and your doctor and leads to better results.  

The AHRQ has put together a series of questionnaires to facilitate better communication between you and your doctor.  They explain that once you get in the habit of preparing questions beforehand, you can more efficiently use your time with the doctor (doctors spend between 13 to 24 minutes with each patient).    

Questions will change depending on the reason for your visit such as discussing a medical procedure (remember you are your own best advocate).  AHRQ recommends asking:  why do I need this procedure; how many times have you performed it; and when will I get the results?  It is also advisable to ask if there are alternative treatments that are just as effective; possible complications; and what hospital is best for this type of procedure?   

If you are being prescribed a new medication, AHRQ says to ask how the new drug will interact with other prescription drugs you are taking as well as with over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements and vitamins you use.  Also ask how long you will be taking the drug and any common side effects.   

Another good take-away from the article is it reminds patients that doctors and nurses welcome questions as they let them know you understand their instructions and are an active partner in your care.  If you feel overwhelmed by lots of new information, consider bringing a family member or trusted friend along with you to the appointment.    

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 visit our website to set up an appointment for a tour of the area’s top independent living, assisted living and memory care facility.   

Source:

http://www.ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/ask-your-doctor/index.html   

A Professional Diagnosis is Important if You Suspect Alzheimer’s Disease

Experts say it is important to seek the advice of your doctor if memory problems are seriously affecting your life.  To determine if you or a loved one has Alzheimer's disease, the Mayo Clinic explains, “doctors conduct tests to assess memory impairment and other thinking skills, judge functional abilities, and identify behavior changes. They also perform a series of tests to rule out other possible causes of impairment.” 

During your appointment, the Mayo Clinic says expect to be evaluated on:

·         Whether you have impaired memory or thinking (cognitive) skills

·         Whether you exhibit changes in personality or behaviors

·         The degree of your memory or thinking impairment or changes

·         How your thinking problems affect your ability to function in daily life

·         The cause of your symptoms

Tests include neuropsychological tests that are used to access your abstract thinking, problem-solving skills, memory, language usage and other related skills.  Your doctor may also schedule braining-imaging tests.  While these brain scans are not used to diagnose Alzheimer’s, they can detect other conditions such as hemorrhages, brain tumors or damage from a past stroke.  They are also used to establish a baseline in terms of the amount of degeneration seen on the scans.  

Your doctor may also talk with your family to learn more about the types of changes they have noticed and how they have affected who you are now.  All of the information is then used to rule out other conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, strokes, or depression that may be causing your symptoms.

It is understandable that people are often afraid to go to a doctor once they suspect Alzheimer’s disease.  Furthermore, many people feel that since there is no cure, what is the point?  However, doctors stress once you are diagnosed with the disease, you can start getting the proper treatment as well as consider your care options and plans for the future.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar 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 for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs. 

Source:mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20048075

Seniors Need to Socialize to Lead Fulfilling Lives

In order to thrive and lead fulfilling lives, people need to socialize with one another, and seniors are no different.  In fact studies show loneliness can have a detrimental effect on the elderly while socializing can help to enhance and enrich seniors’ lives.

An article in the US News & World Report discusses a study on seniors’ social interactions conducted by the Rush Memory and Aging Project and funded by the National Institute on Aging.  The study found that the most socially active seniors experienced one-fourth the rate of cognitive decline as seniors with the lowest levels of social activity.  The results were independent of other factors that may influence cognitive decline including physical activity, general health, and age.    

During a five year period, the Rush University project followed 1,138 adults with an average age of 80.  Their research discovered that “elderly people with the highest levels of social activity -- doing things such as visiting friends, going to parties or attending church -- showed much lower levels of cognitive decline than those who were the least socially active.” 

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we strongly believe we need to address our residents’ overall health and wellbeing through physical, intellectual and spiritual activities as well as to help them engage socially.  Our life enrichment programs present creative ways for residents to stay active and productive for both companionship and pure fun.  Our programs tap into residents’ unique talents and experiences as well as allow them to find new avenues of interest.  In addition to our in-house activities, we take group trips to a variety of places such as cultural destinations, parks, area malls, museums, and restaurants.

Please visit our website to see what is happening at MorningStar at Arrowhead.  Our Glendale senior living community offers 60 private assisted living suites along with 25 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest Glendale senior living.

Sources: usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/05/04/socializing-may-keep-elderly-minds-sharp,livestrong.com/article/543831-the-importance-of-elderly-exercise-socialization-programs/