Independent Living at MorningStar of Billings Offers a Carefree Lifestyle

Independent living can be a refreshing change of lifestyle.  In fact according to A Place for Mom, “Most seniors who have moved to assisted living or independent living communities report that they prefer life at their new home to living alone.”  

Today’s senior living communities such as MorningStar of Billings offer the benefit of predictable budgeting, built-in companionship, and great food that they no longer have to cook. Instead, our residents enjoy a fine dining experience every day of the week. Independent living also means you no longer have the worry of maintaining a home, and as we provide scheduled transportation, you can rely on us to do the driving.  Our independent living suites are equipped with a kitchen for when you feel like preparing a meal on your own and we also offer housekeeping services. 

Moreover, as a resident of MorningStar you have the peace of mind knowing that people are around if you should need them as each unit has an emergency call system and a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom.  We also offer a laundry and linen service, and we are pet friendly.   

MorningStar of Billings’ 72 independent living suites include a variety of one bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Your suite fee includes basic cable TV and utilities, daily meals and the chance to participate in a whole host of wellness programs and activities.   

In addition, MorningStar of Billings also offers 32 free-standing cottage homes with attached garages for independent living.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community and our hospitality and care team who feel honored to serve seniors. 

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. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/why-seniors-prefer-senior-living-communities/

MorningStar at Arrowhead Offers a “5 Star” Dinning Experience

As one of the best retirement communities Peoria/Glendale area has to offer, MorningStar at Arrowhead understands the important of gathering together as a community to “break bread” each day.  We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.”   

We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why food is prepared largely from scratch and features the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced.  MorningStar’s meals are prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, Isaiah White.   

As a resident, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as the one we recently enjoyed at Easter. Residents were encouraged to reserve the seating of their choice for this special meal and of course family members were welcome.  Also, Chef White modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes.  Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods.    

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

For our memory care residents, food is as much about Community as it is about Nutrition. To encourage appetites, our team members sit and share meals with residents and many are served “family style” as they are in private homes.  Much of our food is modified out of respect for residents’ somewhat compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.  

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 and the surrounding area offers.

Improve Your Health with Super Foods

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common form of heart disease and causes a narrowing or complete blockage of the arteries.  This can result in angina or a tightness and discomfort in the chest as arteries are not getting enough blood to the heart, which must work harder.  As time goes on, CAD can cause heart failure or an irregular heartbeat.   

Recent studies report turmeric, a seasoning that enhances the flavor of food, may also be beneficial to your heart.  Research suggests turmeric may help to reduce a person’s total cholesterol as well as the levels of bad cholesterol known as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) in the blood.  By reducing the oxidation of LDL, turmeric may help reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. 

Another benefit of turmeric is it is believed to help calm inflammation in the body as its essential oils and curcumin display a wide spectrum of antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and other anti-inflammatory properties.  Turmeric may also offer a natural protection against Alzheimer’s disease as curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and work toward preventing or slowing the progression of nervous-system related diseases.   

Acai berries are another nutrient-dense super food loaded with antioxidants, which may be good for our heart and brain.  High in fat and low in sugar, studies has shown acai may decrease the total and LDL cholesterol in animals, and researchers believe it may do the same for humans.  Other studies show the plant compounds in acai may also boost brain function and protect our brains from damage as we age.  Current research points to improvement in the memory of rats.   

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we specialize in providing residents with holistic, loving assisted living dementia care.  Our entire team and wellness programs are focused on finding ways to stimulate and enhance our residents’ quality of life.  This includes providing meals created with BrainWise foods such as such as acai berries, turmeric, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.   Visit our website to learn 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. 

Source: healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-acai-berries

Beautiful Private Suites at MorningStar of Fort Collins

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we are committed to providing residents with a “true home” and offer 55 stylish, private assisted living suites.  Additionally, we have 24 secure suites devoted to individualized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases.  Our graciously-appointed senior care community is in the southeast side of the city, and convenient to hospitals, banks, shopping, restaurants and grocery stores.

One look at our website and you will see that MorningStar of Fort Collins is indeed a beautiful, special place.  Right from the beginning, we worked to ensure our community would be a comfortable place for our residents to enjoy carefree retirement years and have designed our entire community to cater to those needs.

All of our assisted living private suites offer high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, lighting and mini blinds; and includes a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom.  Each suite is also equipped with an emergency call system, private heating and air conditioning, and basic cable TV and utilities. We offer residents weekly housekeeping and laundry service as well as spot cleaning and daily trash removal.  To help residents feel right at home, we are pet friendly, and all you need to do is to bring your furnishings and personal items.

We encourage you to take a look at our various floor plans as they were designed for the utmost comfort.  Starting with a large two-bedroom configuration to our studios, we are certain you will feel right at home, however, please set up a tour to see for yourself why we are so proud of our gorgeous community.      

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 Fort Collins.

Specialized Memory Care at MorningStar of Fort Collins

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we proudly offer the finest senior care with assisted living and memory care suites.  As experienced specialists in caring for those with memory loss from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our community is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

Our loving and compassionate team considers it their calling as well as their privilege to care for your loved one.  Also MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease.  

When a resident joins our community, we spend time with them and their family to learn as much as we can about their life before the memory loss including their talents, vocation, and preferences.  From there, we create a daily care plan based on their needs and designed to stimulate or calm in response to their mood or situation. We know that whatever the form of dementia, a person’s essence remains and our calling is to find ways to connect with and nurture that essence.  

Among our many wellness programs and activities, MorningStar is proud to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association in every market in which we serve, including MorningStar of Fort Collins. Along with fund-raising for local chapters throughout the year, we participate in their core initiatives, like Memories in the Making, The Longest Day and Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

MorningStar of Fort Collins understands that receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be devastating to a family but we want you to know we are here to help.  We encourage you to schedule a visit to get a firsthand look at our exceptional community.

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 Fort Collins.

Walking for Exercise has Many Benefits for Seniors

Experts agree that walking is beneficial to seniors’ health as it can stop bone mass loss, strengthen leg and abdominal muscles, and improve circulation by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for heart disease.  Walking can also lead to weight loss or maintain your weight, help you sleep better, increase your mental sharpness, and improve balance and stability.  It can even increase your lifespan.  However if you have not exercised in a while, doctors recommend you start slowly and only gradually increase your distance and pace.  

If you let your health care provider know you are going to start walking, they can help you determine a safe starting point.  From the onset you may only be able to walk a short distance, but over time, you will be able to go farer and should start noticing benefits fairly quickly.  Additionally experts say even if you need a cane or a walker to safely move about, don’t let that stop you from walking, just take it with you.  Also wear properly fitted comfortable shoes that provide good arch support.   If you have foot problems, talk to your doctor about orthopedic shoes.   

Remember do not overexert yourself.  Walk at a safe pace and keep in mind that the most important thing is to just get started.  For your safety, tuck your cell phone into a pocket that you can easy get to if the need arises and stay hydrated.  To help keep you motivated, walk with a buddy or join a walking group.   

At MorningStar of Billings, we wholeheartedly agree that walking is great exercise for seniors and we have walking paths for our independent living and assisted living residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community, activities and programs, and our wide range of amenities.   

Please consult your health care provider before starting any type of exercise. 

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.

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Learn More About MorningStar

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar at Arrowhead is one of four MorningStar communities in the Phoenix area.  

MorningStar Senior Living recently celebrated our 15th anniversary and we attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to a mission of servant-leadership.  Right from the beginning, Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger began MorningStar based on the following three mission statements: 

·         Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics

·         Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence

·         Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents  

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we recognize our mission is advanced by team members who hold true to our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors and help us create the kind of culture we envision building – a Family for Life.   In addition we are a company committed to investing our time and talents in charitable projects close to home and around the world.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead consists of 60 private assisted living suites and 25 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Visit our website to learn more about the many amenities and services offered by our exceptional community.    

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. Located on the north side of Glendale AZ, MorningStar at Arrowhead offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with inviting common areas and beautiful contemporary décor.  Call to schedule a visit to the finest senior living in the area.

MorningStar at Bear Creek has Caregivers with a Felt Calling to Serve

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a specialized, individualized dementia care community.  With 48 suites, we offer a selection of four floor plans including two variations of studio apartments as well as one- and two-bedroom options.  Our community has a reputation as one of the top Alzheimer homes in the Colorado Springs area.  We know this would not be possible without a team of extraordinary caregivers.  

These remarkable individuals all share a felt calling to serve and are the kind of people who do the right thing even when no one is watching.  We are proud of the fact that our team selection starts with heart; and we seek people who want to perfect the art of anticipating needs and are willing to go the extra mile.  Together we know that serving seniors – at its best – is love in action!   

Everyone at MorningStar at Bear Creek, regardless of their position, goes through our proprietary brand Service Excellence initiative known as “Radiance,” which promotes an attitude of selflessness.  It embodies the way we deliver service (like light a beam of light), and its precepts are reiterated daily during our group Huddle.  Radiance’s loving grace permeates the way we speak to our residents, their families and fellow team members and allows the love beneath our roof to shine through.    

As dementia care specialists, we feel privileged to walk alongside our residents and their families on this unexpected journey, and invite you to visit our website to learn more about our unique approach to dementia care.  Our beautiful community is truly home to our residents and we recommend setting up a tour to experience the loving atmosphere.  We look forward to meeting your family.  

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 the finest memory care in Colorado Springs.

Assisted Living May be the Best Answer

Many seniors are pleasantly surprised to discover that assisted living is not such a “terrible place” after all but rather a true home that offers many benefits.  Several studies also back up this assertion and have found that for many, a senior living community is a healthier, safer and more agreeable alternative to living alone.   

Initially it can be difficult for seniors to leave their familiar family home and often mistakenly think moving into an assisted living community will mean the end of their independence.  Actually the opposite ends up being true as when a senior receives the proper care he or she needs, they are able to lead a fuller life.   

Another reason seniors can be reluctant to make the move is they do not realize that assisted living communities of today are not anything like nursing homes.  As a resident of an assisted living community, you not only will have you own private suite but an array of care options and amenities that are designed to provide your utmost comfort and security.     

In many cases assisted living is a much better option than trying to patch together the range of services the senior needs from in-home care providers.  Furthermore, assisted living communities are already set up to accommodate those who may have mobility difficulties, and it can be expensive to retrofit a private home to make it safe enough for a senior with physical limitations.  In addition, communities such as MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arrowhead provide 24/7 care and offer residents as well as their families the peace of mind knowing help is close at hand in an emergency.    

Please see our website for contact information and to learn why assisted living or memory care may be the right decision for you or your loved one.   

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 the finest assisted living in the area. 

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

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 of 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. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers the Colorado Springs area individualized, loving dementia care.  We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community. 

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 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.    

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

seniorliving.org/healthcare/uti/

Driving Safely as You Age

Older drivers can still be good, safe drivers, but there are some things to consider both for your safety and the safety of others.  The Mayo Clinic recommends that seniors stay as active as possible in their day-to-day life which helps to maintain overall strength, flexibility, and range of motion.  Drivers need to be able to turn and look over their shoulder and move their head with ease.  They must be able to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and legs need to be strong enough to apply pressure to the gas pedal or brake. 

A senior’s peripheral vision can decrease with age or from certain medications and other eye problems may cause drivers to have trouble seeing in the dark or experience blurred vision.  Hearing problems can interfere with detecting sounds of sirens from emergency vehicles or approaching cars.  Be vigilant about scheduling vision and hearing tests regularly as part of your wellness care and follow your doctor’s advice as to how often they should be done.  Many problems can be corrected if caught early enough.   

Remember that certain medications can cause drowsiness so make sure you know the side effects of your prescription drugs and do not drive if you are feeling sleepy.  It may be a good idea to limit trips in the car to daylight hours and when the weather is good.  Keep in mind that a person’s reaction time slows with age as do their motor skills.  You may need to re-evaluate your driving every so few months, especially if you find yourself having incidences of accidents that almost happen. 

Some safe driving tips for seniors:

Planning before you leave:

·         Plan to drive on streets you know.

·         Limit your trips to places that are easy to get to and close to home.

·         Take routes that let you avoid risky spots like ramps and left turns.

·         Add extra time for travel if driving conditions are bad.

·         Don't drive when you are stressed or tired.

While you are driving:

·         Always wear your seat belt.

·         Stay off the cell phone.

·         Avoid distractions such as listening to the radio or having conversations.

·         Leave a big space, at least two car lengths, between your car and the one in front of you. If you are driving at higher speeds or if the weather is bad, leave even more space between you and the next car.

·         Make sure there is enough space behind you. (Hint: if someone follows you too closely, slow down so that the person will pass you.)

·         Use your rear window defroster to keep the back window clear at all times.

·         Keep your headlights on at all times. 

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, our goal is to provide residents with the services (including scheduled transportation) and amenities that allow them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. Our beautiful community offers 32 free-standing cottages, along with 72 bright suites for independent living, 70 for assisted living and 36 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

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.

Financial & Legal Planning for Those Diagnosed with Dementia

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you and your family will need to take steps to plan for your/their future.  Experts advise families that along with discussing dementia care options, they financially and legally plan for the future.   

The National Institute on Aging advises the person to examine and update their financial and healthcare arrangements as soon as possible. By having legal and financial documents in place, such as a will, a living trust, and advance directives, it ensures the person’s late-stage or end-of-life healthcare and financial decisions are carried out.       

The NIA suggests having a lawyer draw up and maintain the documents as they understand State law and can help update changes to a person’s circumstances such as divorce or a death in the family, and other applicable changes.  These documents should include Advance Directives for Health Care:   

A living will expresses the person’s wishes in regard to medical treatment near the end of life when they can no longer make known their decisions regarding healthcare.  In addition some people have a Do Not Resuscitate Order signed by a doctor, placed in their medical file that instructs healthcare professionals to not perform CPR in the event they stop breathing or their heart stops.    

A durable power of attorney for health care is a document that specifically designates a person (sometimes known as an agent or proxy) to make healthcare decisions for the individual when they no longer have the capacity to do so.  This document applies to all healthcare decisions and for all types of medical conditions.   

Advance Directives for Financial and Estate Management must be done while a person still has the legal capacity to make decisions and includes a durable power of attorney for finances.  This designates a person of your choosing to manage and make financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated.   

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides loving, compassionate assisted living dementia care to those in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability.   

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. 

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/legal-and-financial-planning-people-alzheimers

The Effect on Family Members After a Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s Disease

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all.  Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold.  Most are left with questions about what to expect next. 

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.”  They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better.  Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors.  Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned.  You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.   

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day.  A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so.  Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away. 

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings.  They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses.  Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings. 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our dementia care residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve and spend each day in an atmosphere that celebrates and elevates their lives. Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour. 

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.  

How to Help Your Loved One Transition to Assisted Living

While many older adults wish to live out their senior years at home, for some, it is not a manageable option. Moreover, no matter our age, change can be challenging, and it is no different for seniors when the time comes for them move into a senior living community.   

To ease the transition, experts offer several tips that can help make the move less stressful.  One suggestion is to start planning way ahead of the time you anticipate you will need to make the move.  So if you can, do not wait until your parent needs to go from a hospital stay into assisted living.  The advantage to starting your search way in advance of the move is it allows you the time to find a place ideally suited to your loved ones’ needs and personality.  Always remember it is a huge life transition and should be treated as such.  

If possible, it is recommended to try and pick from one of the assisted living communities in the area they reside in as it allows them to retain some continuity in their lives including keeping their doctors.  They can also continue to visit area friends and companions.  If you will be moving the person to another town or state to be closer to family, keep in mind this can be especially difficult and your parent may need even more support.  Experts advise in this situation to have more services in place rather than less.  If later you find you do not need some of them, you can cancel them.   

Another tip is to visit the new community as often as possible before the move.  Along with a formal tour of the community, make arrangements for them to have lunch there several times before they move in or participate in an activity or special event.  The more familiar they are with their new home the easier the transition will be.  

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s goal is to be one of the best retirement communities Peoria and Glendale offers, and we work hard to create a true “home” for residents. Our community has 60 private assisted living suites available in a variety of configurations including spacious studio and one and two-bedroom floorplans.  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 pricing and availability.       

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 and the surrounding area has to offer.

MorningStar at Bear Creek Offers Specialized Dementia Care

MorningStar at Bear Creek is Colorado Springs’ specialized dementia care experts.  Our community provides 48 secure suites in a variety of floor plans for permanent and short-term residents. Unlike many other Alzheimer homes, our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.    

Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.   

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch.  However most importantly, we embrace hope.   

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan.  

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information on one of the area’s most experienced, compassionate memory care communities.   

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.

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.