Discover the Benefits of Senior Living Communities

Now that senior living communities have change dramatically from the past, more and more seniors are discovering the many advantages to senior living.  Whether you are a senior who requires a little extra care or an active one who desires a more carefree lifestyle, senior living communities are becoming more and more appealing.   

Today’s independent living and assisted living communities offer comfortable, carefree retirement years and are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  In a senior living community such as MorningStar of Billings, residents find it easy to socialize and meet new friends as well as to engage in a variety of meaningful activities.  

Another benefit of senior living is you can leave behind all of the chores required of a homeowner such as mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, and other routine, time-consuming chores that can be difficult for seniors.  At MorningStar of Billings, someone else handles the maintenance while you have the freedom to concentrate on more fulfilling activities.   

Many times, older adults have medical conditions that result in them no longer being able or feeling comfortable driving, which is why one of MorningStar’s services includes scheduled transportation.  We also provide routine trips to local shopping malls, entertainment venues, parks, museums and more.    

Also don’t worry if you are a senior who values your privacy as your cottage or suite is your own personal “nest.”  We just provide a level of comfort knowing help is close at hand when you need it such as if you have a fall or a medical emergency.      

MorningStar of Billings invites you to schedule a tour to see for yourself why our residents are proud to call us “home”.  Our community has 72 independent living suites and 70 assisted living suites that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  In addition, we offer senior independent living in 32 free-standing cottages and have 36 suites for memory care.   

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

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

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s Holistic Approach to Healthy Aging

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead, we provide our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Our gorgeous residential home offers resort-style amenities, a wide range care services and enrichment programs to enhance residents’ health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.    

Headed up by an enthusiastic Life Enrichment Team, each day MorningStar presents creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory. Our activities will engage residents physically, mentally, spiritually and socially and help them to tap into their unique talents and experiences.   

We also take to the road with outings and field trips to local parks, museums, shopping malls, and other areas of interest.  To get an idea of some of the activities we offer, please visit our website and look at “Life Around our House”, “More Scenes of Elevated, Celebrated Life” and our “In Touch Newsletter.”  Pictures often include holiday celebrations or special events such as dances, family picnics and fundraising activities.  MorningStar at Arrowhead never misses an opportunity to have fun!  Furthermore, take a look at our monthly assisted living calendar to get an idea of everything that is offered to our residents.     

MorningStar at Arrowhead amenities include a fireside patio and porches as well as an in-house salon for hair-styling, manicures and pedicures, a fitness room, massage room and much more.  We also have a Bistro, and along with our beautiful restaurant-style dining in our main dining room, we offer residents a private dining area for intimate dinners with family and friends.   

Our website has a lot more information on our Arrowhead community including a direct link to find out more about pricing and availability.   We encourage families to schedule a tour, and see for yourself why residents are proud to call MorningStar home. 

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 learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Music May Help Calm Those with Alzheimer’s

The Mayo Clinic reports on research that suggests listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. They explain the reason may be that “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.”  Listening to music can help relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and reduce agitation. 

Music can bring back memories to those even in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.  The Alzheimer’s Associations quotes neurologist Oliver Sacks, who says, “Music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory… it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.”  When music is incorporated into the everyday activities of someone with dementia, it can help them to recall memories of that activity and improve cognitive ability over time. 

Research has shown that some of the last two abilities in Alzheimer’s patients are musical abilities and the appreciation of it, which is why it is such an effective way to try and reach the essence of the person.  It has also been found to help those in the more advanced stages of the disease to express and share emotions with their caregivers through dancing or moving along with the rhythm.  The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America says, “When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.”   

MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek is a dementia and Alzheimer’s care community located in Colorado Springs, CO.  As dementia care specialists, our training and experience has given us a deep understanding of the disease.  Our holistic approach includes leveraging the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort.  Please contact us 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 dementia and Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

Watching Less TV Shows Health Benefits for Seniors

For years research has suggested children should have limits placed upon their daily screen time, and now a large study suggests the same may be true for older adults.   A published report from the University College London in the United Kingdom indicates that older adults who spent at least 3.5 hours a day watching television experienced a greater decline in verbal memory.  The study’s data was taken from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), which included 3,662 participants age 50 years and older.   

Participants answered researchers’ questions in 2008-2009 and then again in 2014-2015 regarding the time they spent watching TV.  Afterward they were given a series of tests that measured verbal memory and fluency.  Results showed adults who watch 3.5 or more hours of TV daily had an “average decline of 8–10 percent in word- and language-related memory over the 6 years the study covered. This is compared with a lower 4–5 percent average decline in those who watched fewer hours of TV per day over the same period.”   For the verbal memory tests, participants were asked to memorize and then recall lists of words within a given time.  The verbal fluency tests required them to list as many examples, such as animals, they could in a given amount of time.  The semantic fluency of the study’s participants did not seem to be affected.   

It was noted that most of the studies involving the effects of TV watching have been done on children and little to no studies on older adults.  One of the study’s co-authors, Dr. Daisy Fancourt, who works in the Department of Behavioral Science and Health says, "Much less attention has been paid to the effects of television viewing at the other end of the lifespan, despite it being hypothesized for over 25 years that watching excessive television could contribute to the development of dementia." 

At MorningStar of Billings, our residents have a whole lot more to do than just watch TV.  Our independent living, assisted living and memory care provides the services residents’ need as well as a range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.  Please call or visit our website to learn more.   

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: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324598.php

Luxury Senior Living in Glendale, Arizona

MorningStar at Arrowhead offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community within its warm and inviting common areas and contemporary décor, which is the work of Thoma-Holec Design, an award-winning specialist in senior living interiors.  From the moment you walk through the front door, you will be met with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

Once you have a chance to visit our website and browse through the gorgeous interior and exterior pictures on our Gallery page, you will see why senior living communities are not all created equal.  MorningStar at Arrowhead was built on the premise that senior living should accommodate the needs of the residents, while at the same time; offer a serene and loving environment.

Each of our assisted living suites has high-end finishes, handicap-accessible bathrooms, spacious closets, lighting, high ceilings, and large windows.  Suites also include a kitchenette with fridge, 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

With 60 bright suites for assisted living, MorningStar at Arrowhead’s floor plans include spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations (some over 600 square feet).  Our Reflections Neighborhood’s 25 memory care suites are also offered in a variety of floor plans and configurations.  Please contact us to learn more about availability and pricing.  We look forward to meeting you.

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.

Taking a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease to the Doctor

It is important to schedule routine doctor appointments for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease.  The Mayo Clinic explains that checkups ensure health and behavioral issues are regularly addressed and provides tips for caregivers accompanying the person to help them get the most out of the limited time spent with the doctor.  Also, they suggest that while your loved one is still able, to have them sign a privacy release form at the doctor’s office so their medical condition can be freely shared with you.   

You should try to schedule appointments during the person’s best time of day, and if you can, coordinate it with the doctor’s least busy time.  You should bring along snacks and water as well as an activity you can do together.  If they have been uncooperative about going to the doctor’s office in the past, wait and let them know about the appointment that day. 

The Mayo Clinic says the caregiver should prepare a list of things they wish to discuss with the doctor including medication side effects or issues with aggressive behaviors.  Also have a list of medications the person is taking and include over-the-counter medications and other supplements.   If your loved one is in an assisted living community, ask the staff about any concerns they would like you to relay to the doctor.   

If a new medication is prescribed, ask questions about the side effects.  Also be ready to answer questions regarding any changes in their memory and mood as well as their diet and sleep habits.  Write down significant information including recommended follow-up appointments with specialists.  Most importantly, if you feel you need help, your doctor is a good source for referrals to various community resources and care providers.   

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 Alzheimer’s care.   

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 dementia and Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

Making the Most of Your Next Doctor Visit

Dr. Danielle Ofri, author and associate professor of medicine at New York University, wrote an in-depth article for the New York Times detailing the strategies seniors can use to get more out of their next doctor appointment.  She starts by explaining that you should take a few minutes to figure out what you want to get out of the appointment.  Ask yourself if this is just a well visit or do you have something specific you want to discuss with the doctor such as a new symptom or problem.  It might be you wish to discuss changes in your diet or lifestyle or to bring up topics such as end-of-life preference?     

Dr. Ofri stresses that quality is better than quantity and being focused on a couple of things you hope to accomplish from the appointment will probably result in more specific answers.  Also scheduling regular appointments will give you the time to concentrate on your various needs.     

To ensure your doctor has the information he or she needs, write down all the medications and dosages you are taking beforehand, including any herbal supplements and vitamins.  If it is easier, bring all your pill bottles so the staff can go through your medications and daily dosages.   Remember your insurance information, and if it is a new doctor, bring along your health records.    

Another important part of a successful doctor visit is communication.  Always keep in mind you are your own best advocate and want to make sure you are clearly heard.  Experts suggest you keep track of the time to make sure your primary concerns are covered.  Furthermore, do not bring up new problems right at the end of the visit but rather schedule a new appointment to discuss those issues.  Most importantly the experts say to not leave the office until you completely understand your treatment plan.  If you need to, ask one of the nurses to go over the doctor’s instructions with you.  After you leave, go over everything that occurred during the visit including treatment plans and recommendations for any follow-up appointments and write down anything you may forget. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead is proud to be one of finest retirement homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area has to offer, and we work hard to create a true “home” for our assisted living and memory care residents.  Their health is our first priority and we provide all of the amenities and services required to accomplish this.  Please visit our website to learn more.  

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 homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area offers.

Source: www.bethesdahealth.org/seniors-can-better-doctors-appointments/

Senior Communities Offer a Comfortable Lifestyle

Many older adults are attracted to the idea of carefree retirement years and have found that senior living communities offer the opportunity for a very comfortable lifestyle.   Much of that is due to the fact that senior living communities like MorningStar of Billings are designed to meet seniors’ social, physical, spiritual and wellness needs.  Senior living communities include independent living and assisted living as well as memory care that specializes in caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.   

The physical upkeep involved in owning a home such as mowing lawns, shoveling snow, and other routine chores become harder as we age.  At a senior living community, someone else does the outdoor and indoor maintenance, and communities like MorningStar of Billings offer housekeeping, laundry and other services.  In other words, senior living residents have the freedom to focus on more fulfilling activities like relaxing and enjoying themselves. 

Senior living is also a perfect solution for older adults who live alone and are feeling lonely.  Their world may have gotten smaller as they retired from careers or suffered the loss of a spouse or close friends.  Some seniors no longer feel comfortable driving, which can lead to more isolation.  Senior living offers you privacy but now you have the comfort of knowing that people are around when you need them.  Also you will have the chance to socialize and meet new friends.  At MorningStar of Billings, we provide scheduled transportation along with outings to places such as entertainment venues, museums, shopping malls, outdoor parks and more.     

If senior living sounds like something you would like to know more about, please visit MorningStar of Billings’ website.  If you like what you see, please schedule a tour to see why our residents are pleased to call us “home!”  Our community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care.   

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we 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-communiti

Depression is Not a Normal Part of Aging

Statistics show that depression in seniors is common; however, it is not a normal part of aging and should not be treated as such.   Many of the challenges seniors go through in the later stages of their life including the death of love ones, retiring from the workplace, and having one or more serious health problems or disability can result in a person developing depression.  While an estimated 6 million adults age 65 years and older have late-life depression, only 10% of those affected are treated for it. 

Experts say there are several reasons why depression goes untreated in the elderly including the fact that symptoms are displayed differently from those in younger people. For example many seniors do show signs of sadness, the most common symptom of depression, and many are unwilling to share their feelings with anyone.  Seniors with depression often complain of feeling tired, have trouble sleeping and may be grumpy and irritable.  Depression can even cause symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease such as confusion and attention problems. 

In some cases symptoms of depression are misdiagnosed as being the result of medical conditions and/or from the side effects of medicines they take to treat the conditions.  The National Institute on Aging says depression can “co-occur with other serious medical illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease.” Furthermore, they explain that depression can make these conditions worse and treating the depression can help older adults better manage their other health conditions. 

If you think you have depression or that a loved one is suffering from the condition, you need to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider.  It can be treated but your doctor needs to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing the depression.    Typical treatment for depression includes medication and psychotherapy.

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.

MorningStar at Arrowhead Offers Expansive Care Services

If you are looking for one of the best retirement homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area offers, we encourage you consider MorningStar at Arrowhead.  We provide area seniors compassionate assisted living and memory care with resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of care services to ensure their utmost comfort and wellbeing.   

At MorningStar we define health and well-being holistically and as such, offer programming that supports the whole person – body, mind and spirit, and are thus the perfect destination for successful aging.  Reflective of the full authority of our licensing with the Department of Health, our resident care services are broad and help extend the stay of residents even as their health conditions change.  In fact we will routinely look for creative solutions (within our licensing mandate) that yield a higher quality of care for residents at a lower cost to their families.   

To improve care services, we proudly use the MorningStar Electronic Health Record (EHR) system at our Arrowhead community.  It provides us with a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).   The system benefits both our team and residents with quick access to accurate, legible, and complete demographic and medical information on residents.  It offers different modules to monitor various vitals and key health metrics as well as provides enhanced privacy and security of residents’ data.   

Our services include: 24-hour care managers, medication management by certified med care managers, licensed nurse—on call 24/7, care planning reviews and scheduled health & wellness evaluations.  We also offer mechanical lift assistance, weights and vitals monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services, and much more.  Please visit our website to see the full list of our care services and to read more about our exceptional community. 

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 homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area has to offer. 

Improve the Health of Your Bones

It is estimated that approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 44 million Americans have low bone mass, which puts them at an increased risk for osteoporosis.  People may be unaware they have the disease until they fall and fracture a bone as osteoporosis does not exhibit any clear signs or symptoms.  While the disease affects both men and women, older white and Asian women (especially those post-menopausal) are at the highest risk.  Studies show one in every two women and up to one in four men age 50 years or older will break a done due to disease.  Furthermore, injuries can lead to serious complications and twenty percent of seniors who break a hip die within one year of surgery.  Many others require long-term care.    

The National Osteoporosis Foundation says it is never too late to take steps to protect our bones and prevent fractures (broken bones), and urge us to take action by adopting health habits that build and protect our bones.  One step is to eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables as well as calcium and vitamin D.  Exercising regularly is another important component and should include weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.  Also avoid smoking and limit alcohol to 2-3 drinks per day.   

An early diagnosis can also make a difference as osteoporosis is a disease that can be treated as well as prevented.  A safe and painless procedure called a bone mineral density (BMD) test uses a special machine to measure bone density.  It tells you the amount of bone mineral you have in a certain area of bone and can be done on different bones in your body such as hip, spine, forearm, etc.  In addition, common health conditions including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and multiple sclerosis, breast and prostate cancer, and diabetes can increase you chance of getting osteoporosis.   

Please visit MorningStar at Bear Creek’s website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate assisted living for dementia residents.  Every aspect of our dementia care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.

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. 

Source: nof.org/preventing-fractures/prevention/

MorningStar of Billings Offers Assisted Living that Feels Like Home

The MorningStar of Billings senior living community consists of three neighborhoods including 32 free standing cottages and 72 bright suites for independent living, 70 assisted living suites, and 36 memory care suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Situated in a park-like neighborhood in western Billings, we offer seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   

If you are a senior who requires a little help with your day-to-day personal care, our assisted living is expertly designed to provide the assistance you need in order to maintain your independence.  Once you decide to move into our beautiful community, you and your extended family will sit down with our Wellness Director to create an individualized care plan that meets with your approval and ensures your comfort and safety.   

Our assisted living offers five levels of care and the cost of your monthly fee is based on the types of services we will be providing.  Regardless of your level of care, all residents receive 24/7 Care Managers as well as the services of a licensed nurse, routine care plan reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  MorningStar of Billings’ care services include help with dressing, bathing, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services and more.   

Furthermore, as an assisted living resident at MorningStar of Billings, you are sure to enjoy our wellness programs and activities that are intended to enhance your life intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially.  Our programs provide numerous ways for residents to express their unique talents and to stay active and productive.  Also we would be remiss if we did not mention our delicious meals prepared by our own Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room.   

We are proud to have a care team who feels called to serve seniors and help us to create a true home for our residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s finest senior living 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.

Seniors in Community Housing Require Less Hospitalization

A Place for Mom posted the results of a study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, which was published in the journal, The Gerontologist.  The study focused on “vulnerable” seniors, who were defined as older adults with moderate or low incomes who lived alone. The purpose of the study was to “understand how the senior living environment can mitigate the effects of multiple chronic conditions on hospitalizations.” 

Hospitalization information from participants in the Health Retirement Study was compared with the results of the question, ““Is your home part of a retirement community, senior citizens’ housing or another type of housing that offers services for older adults or someone with a disability?”  Results showed that older adults with multiple chronic conditions in senior living communities were less likely to experience high levels of hospitalization than those who lived alone.  Researchers believe there are positive effects accrued from the various support services available in senior housing environments, which help vulnerable elders to better manage their health conditions.   

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our goal is to be one of the best retirement homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area offers, and we provide all the services needed to support and enhance our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing.  Our residents are provided with 24/7 Care Managers, access to licensed nurses, Medication Managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and much more.  In addition, we offer a wide range of wellness programs and activities that are sure to keep you as busy as you like.   

Please visit our website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.”  While you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour.   

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 homes Peoria AZ and the surrounding area has to offer. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/better-health-lower-levels-of-hospitalization-in-senior-living/    

Heat-related Illness in the Elderly

While beautiful, summers in Colorado Springs are hot and sunny with temperatures typically in the mid-80s so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated.   As statistics unfortunately show, during 1999-2009 “approximately 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.” 

Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature.  When people over the age of 65 heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger, and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features.  Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun.  

Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.  Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out.  Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems.  Furthermore, it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease.  

Diet can also play a role becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided.  If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is devoted to individualized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our community is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website to learn more about our experienced, compassionate Alzheimer’s care.  

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 dementia and Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

Source: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html

It’s Important for Seniors to Stay Mentally Active

Researchers have discovered it is just as important for aging adults to stay mentally active as it is to stay physically active.  Our bodies do not only lose muscle over time but our brains can also atrophy.  The website, Everyday Health explains it as, “More specifically, your brain's cognitive reserve — its ability to withstand neurological damage due to aging and other factors without showing visible signs of slowing or memory loss — diminishes through the years.” 

After extensive studies, scientists now believe that regular, targeted brain exercises can increase your brain's cognitive reserve.  Some of the best brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities such as playing an instrument, art, or dance.  One study involved monitoring the brain activity of 1,000 musicians during rest as well as while they were playing their instruments.  The musicians’ brains “lit up in all areas, and synapses fired at rates hundreds of times more than when resting” while playing their instruments.  Also the heightened brain activity continued for up to 12 hours after they stopped playing. 

In addition mind games, puzzles and memory games are fun way to help seniors keep their brains exercised. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords help improve recall and board games typically require counting, strategy and decision-making.   

For those comfortable using a computer, there are many games specifically designed to improve memory.  At MorningStar of Billings, we have a desktop computer available in our Library as well as offer the revolutionary “It’s Never 2 Late” technology. This state-of-the-art engagement system combines touchscreen computers with intuitive, picture-based software and has a library of over 3,000 choices of things to do and explore. 

Another good brain exercise is learning a new language.  Reading also can open doors to places that seniors may be unable to travel to and can heighten imagination and introduce new ideas.   

Please visit MorningStar of Billings’ website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community as well as our wellness programs and activities.  Our community has 32 cottages and 72 suites for senior independent living, 70 suites for assisted living, and 36 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to caring for 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 senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: everydayhealth.com/longevity/mental-fitness/brain-exercises-for-memory.aspxmindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s Unique Approach to Memory Care

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides loving memory care to Colorado Springs area seniors.  Our community offers 48 secure suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   MorningStar’s compassionate team will expertly provide the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.   

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.   

All of our employees, regardless of their position in our community, will receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our tender residents.  The eight hours of training include the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.   

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they crossover the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead. 

Please visit our website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate dementia and Alzheimer’s care.  While many assisted living communities may offer memory care, we consider it our calling to care for our very special residents.  Our goal is to find ways to elevate and celebrate each resident’s life.   

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 dementia and Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

Learn More About Strokes and Risk Factors You Can Control

Approximately 795,000 people in the U.S. suffer a stoke each year and is the leading cause of serious, long-term disabilities.  In addition, strokes result in more than 140,000 deaths annually.  Seniors are at the most risk for strokes as 75% of them occur in adults over the age of 65.  However, the good news is the majority of strokes are preventable.  According to the American Stroke Association, there are several risks factors you can “control, treat and improve.”     

High blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for a stroke as well as one of the most controllable.  In fact, doctors attribute the current decline in stroke-related deaths to today’s effective high blood pressure treatments and medications. 

Another significant risk factor you can control is to stop smoking.  Nicotine and carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke causes damage to the cardiovascular system and increases the likelihood of a stroke.  In addition, diabetes, cholesterol, a poor diet, obesity, excessive alcohol use, and heart disease can also increase your risk for a stroke.   

Uncontrollable risk factors include genetics, age and gender.  Furthermore, while more men suffer from strokes, they are more deadly for women.    

Everyone should be familiar with the signs of a stroke.  The American Stroke Association using the word “FAST” to help us spot the signs and remember what to do.  “F” stands for face dropping, “A” stands for arm weakness, “S” for speech difficultly, and “T” for its time to call 911.   

As one of the best retirement homes Peoria AZ has to offer, MorningStar at Arrowhead provides nutritional, tasty meals and a whole range of wellness programs and activities.  Our life enrichment programs are designed to enhance the intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual wellbeing of our residents.   Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful assisted living and memory care community.   

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 retirement homes Peoria AZ has to offer. 

Source: strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/UnderstandingRisk/Understanding-Stroke-Risk_UCM_308539_SubHomePage.jsp  

Gardening is Both Fun and Healthy

Research has shown gardening to be an effective low-impact exercise for seniors.  Along with providing a moderate amount of aerobic exercise for aging adults, gardening can offer benefits to your mental and emotional health.  To keep it accessible to the elderly for whom lifting and bending can be difficult; it is smart to incorporate a few modifications such as raised garden beds as well as using various ergonomic tools. 

One of the best things about gardening is it stimulates all of the senses and offers an excellent excuse to get outside and soak up some vitamin D as well as boost serotonin levels in your brain.  Serotonin is a chemical that improves your mood and helps you to feel calm and centered. In addition to relieving stress and anxiety, gardening gives seniors a sense of purpose and accomplishment with its beautiful or edible finished product.  It also is an enjoyable way to use of all of your motor skills and improve endurance and strength.

Working in a garden has also proven helpful to those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Gardening can help recall pleasant memories from the past and remind a person of healthier times.  Experts advise not to give someone with dementia a sharp tool.  

If seniors plan to get out and garden, they need to protect themselves against pests and the elements.  It is recommended that seniors avoid the heat of the day and apply plenty of sunblock and wear protective clothing including sunglasses and a hat.  They should have shady areas available with benches or chairs so they may easily take a break as needed. It is also important to remember to drink plenty of fluids as dehydration can be a problem.  

Among our many amenities and activities at MorningStar of Fort Collins, we offer residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors through a fireside patio and all-season porches as well as a garden club which meets each Thursday on the patio.  Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior care in Fort Collins.  

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.

Is Frequent Bruising a Sign of a Bigger Problem?

Most likely not says the Mayo Clinic because as we age people bruise more easily.  The reason for this is older skin is thinner and has lost some of its fatty layers that used to work as a cushion to protect blood vessels from injury.  Also women are more prone to bruising than men.    

The medical term for a bruise is contusion, and is typically caused when small blood vessels near the skin’s surface are ruptured by an impact from an injury or a blow to the area.  This causes blood to start leaking out of the vessels and create the visible black-and-blue mark (ecchymosis) of a bruise.  As the body reabsorbs the blood, the bruise begins to heal.   

The Mayo Clinic says that certain medications can cause bruising such as aspirin and anticoagulants such as Coumadin® that thin the blood and reduces its ability to clot.  This means that “bleeding from capillary damage might take longer than usual to stop — which allows enough blood to leak out and cause a bruise.”  Dietary supplements like fish oil and ginkgo have a blood thinning effect that can also increase the risk for bruising. 

However bruising can sometimes be a sign of serious medical conditions such as low levels or abnormally functioning platelets.  They can also indicate problems with the proteins that help to clot blood.  The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting your doctor if large bruises appear on your body, if they are painful, or you start bruising after beginning a new medication. Additionally check with your doctor if a bruise increases in size and becomes swollen and hard as it may be a hematoma, a localized collection of blood which becomes clotted or partially clotted.  

To prevent bruising, Dr. Aarthi Anand, a board certified geriatrician and family medicine practitioner, suggests removing furniture and other obstacles to create a clear path throughout the home to avoid bumps and falls.  If you or your loved one is unsteady on their feet, install handrails when possible and consider using a walker or cane.     

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 senior independent living, assisted living and memory care. 

Sources: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/easy-bruising/art-20045762

aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/elderly-bruising

Communication Tips from the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.   

Typically in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back. 

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions.  Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.      

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers the Colorado Springs area compassionate, personalized Alzheimer’s care for those at the onset of the disease or well into the advanced stages.  Our community consists of 48 suites, including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community. 

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

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications