Do Pets Benefit People with Dementia?

Research has shown that people with dementia benefit physically, emotionally, socially and mentally from a connection between humans and animals.  Whether they are a furry, feathery or scaly friend, it appears that animals have the ability to help those with dementia in a number of ways.  In numerous studies, therapeutic animals have drastically improved dementia symptoms and helped to elevate mood, decrease behavioral problems, improve nutrition, increase social interaction, and provide a calming effect. 

Many people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia lose the ability to initiate and maintain social relationships as the disease progresses.  Dr. Mara Baun has extensively studied the psychological benefits pets provide to those with Alzheimer's disease.  Her research found therapy animals “help decrease the symptoms of aggression and help increase socialization. The presence of a therapy pet helped decreased symptoms of "sundowning" in Alzheimer's patients.”

Dr Baun's sundowning study found that a therapy dog can provide “missed physical contact to a patient with Alzheimer's disease. It matters little to the pet if the person's body has deteriorated or if the stories are repeated over and over.”  The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication can be soothing for patients.   In addition, animals offer unconditional love and endless forgiveness. 

MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek is devoted to providing assisted living for dementia patients, and we could not agree more about the benefits of pets.  Our community is pet friendly and we often have visiting animals to our community.  Our care leverages not only the power of animals but also music, dance, art, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents.

Please visit our website to learn about our exceptional community.  As soon as you step through our door, you will discover a warm and loving atmosphere that feels like a true home.

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 patients in Colorado Springs.

Sources: verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677

chron.com/homes/senior_living-/article/Pets-increase-quality-of-life-for-Alzheimer-s-5759679.php

MorningStar of Fort Collins Offers Compassionate Memory Care

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar of Fort Collins offers assisted living as well as experienced, compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.  

Our memory care is in a separate area we call Reflections Neighborhood and consists of 24 secure suites.  The Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to move safely about their spacious surroundings.  Also, given the nature of dementia, residents pay one price for their suite and their care regardless of the level of memory loss.  

As dementia care experts, our unique approach and philosophy to caring for those afflicted with the disease is called “Lavender Sky.”  We know the essence of the person remains despite the level of memory loss, and our job is to nurture and support the individual by finding ways to calm or stimulate as the situation demands.  Lavender Sky provides the path for us to enter, embrace, and explore the “purple world” of memory loss, and to cross over the physical, emotional, and relational boundaries that would otherwise separate us.    

Every aspect of our home is designed to provide the comfort, wellness and safety our special residents require including mealtime.  We know those suffering from memory loss can sometimes have compromised abilities at the table. We address this by providing a selection of finger foods, texture-modified diets (mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids), and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.   

MorningStar of Fort Collins invites area families to contact us for more information and availability and pricing.  To see firsthand our loving care, we encourage you to set up a tour of one of the finest senior care communities in Fort Collins.  

MorningStar of Fort Collins offers the very best in senior care with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  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 our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s Approach to Memory Care

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides 48 secure suites devoted to assisted living for dementia patients.  Dedicated to provide the best memory care in Colorado Springs, our community is specially designed to encourage residents’ independence as much as possible, while providing individualized care that stimulates or calms as the situation requires. 

At MorningStar our approach to memory care is designed around our comprehensive program we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our philosophy encourages us to walk alongside a resident as we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the world of dementia.  With insight and intentionality, we enter into our memory-impaired residents’ “purple world” to cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. We also educate the families of those afflicted with dementia on how to follow our lead and enter too.

Another important aspect of our unique methodology is to accept the diagnosis of dementia and embrace the fact (we know it is difficult) that this is the path we must take together.  By embracing a deep understanding of the disease, it allows us to embrace the necessary changes in our own communication style as well as physically embrace residents with the power of touch. And most importantly we embrace hope. 

Finally, Lavender Sky explores a boundless variety of resourceful and individualized solutions for we recognize that what works today may not work tomorrow.  When residents come to MorningStar at Bear Creek, we explore the person’s life including their background, interests and preferences to create a specialized care plan.  We also explore ways to engage and involve their family members.

As you can see, memory care at our community springs from a deep understanding of the disease and is offered with the utmost love and compassion.   Please 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 for dementia patients in Colorado Springs.

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

As we age, many of us experience occasional memory loss.  While it may be worrisome, most likely it is just a normal part of growing older.  In the case of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, a common indicator of the disease is memory loss that happens so often it disrupts daily life.  The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and recommends if you or a loved one has any of them, to see your health care provider. 

The first sign that you or a loved one’s memory loss may be a sign of a bigger problem is constantly forgetting new information.  Memory loss may include: needing to have the same information repeated over and over; forgetting important dates and events; and relying more and more on family members or memory aids to handle things.  

Another way memory loss can adversely affect a person’s life is when it becomes difficult to problem solve.  He or she may find it hard to do things they have done well in the past such as keeping track of monthly bills or following a recipe.  Some individuals with Alzheimer’s have problems losing their way when traveling familiar routes or keeping track of the month or season of the year.  Also, a person may start putting things away in odd places and not remember where they put them.  We encourage you to read the Alzheimer’s Association’s full list of common signs of Alzheimer’s. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Arrowhead compassionately provides care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Our beautiful community offers 25 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood designed to care for those in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arrowhead, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care in Glendale, AZ.

Sources: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

Helping with the Move to a Senior Community

If your parent has reached the time in their life where they no longer wish to maintain a home or need help with daily personal care activities, moving into senior independent living or assisted living is the perfect solution. You will have peace of mind knowing their needs are being met and they are safe and comfortable.  However, as much of the task of helping them move will likely fall on your shoulders, you have probably begun to realize that paring back a lifetime’s worth of possessions is a bit overwhelming.  Not to worry, there are many good books on the topic as well as useful tips on the Internet.  

Organizing experts caution that the job can be complicated and fraught with emotion because as you see a pile of stuff to sort through and toss; your parent sees treasures and memories.  Begin by creating a list of things your parent will need at their new place (keep in mind the size) and adding in the treasured items and personal belongings they want to keep.  If something is hard for them to part with, help them to think of a family member or friend they would like to give it to.  Also remind them if they sell the item, they can use the money toward something better suited for their new home such as a smaller couch or coffee table.    

Now the experts recommend going from room to room and to start sorting by keep, toss, or donate piles.  In addition, rather than always asking your parent what they want to keep or get rid of, winnow down the selection, and then ask them yes or no questions.  Presorting items also helps to avoid keeping lots of multiple items. 

By measuring the size of your parent’s new apartment, you can create a floor plan to realistically show how well their furnishings will fit.  Include the amount of cupboards and storage space they will have to help you know how much is too much.  Remember you do not want the new place to be so crowded that they can barely move safely about. 

Keep in mind that if your parent is moving into a community such as MorningStar of Billings, we do most of the cooking and serve the food in our lovely dining room.  Also our well-designed suites come equipped with mini blinds, carpeting, and lots of overhead lighting.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community.      

MorningStar of Billings offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “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 to create a true “home” for residents.  We encourage you to contact us for more information regarding unparalleled senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

The Advantages of Senior Living

Today’s senior living communities are designed to offer older adults carefree retirement years, and many seniors report they prefer community-style living to living alone.  This is probably due to the fact that today’s senior living communities are tailored to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. 

If an older adult is still a homeowner, a senior living community provides the opportunity to say goodbye to never-ending yard work, home maintenance and housekeeping chores.  After all who wants to spend their precious retirement years mowing the lawn or shoveling snow when you can use the time for more fulfilling activities? 

Another benefit senior living offers is it helps to eliminate the loneliness or isolation many seniors experience after they retire.  At MorningStar we offer all kinds of entertaining and meaningful activities that provide seniors a way to stay engaged and continue to grow.  Socializing at MorningStar is as easy as going to our beautiful dining room for a meal or participating in a morning exercise class.  Even if you are the type of person who values privacy, senior living offers the reassurance of having people around when you need them.  

Predictable budgeting is yet one more benefit of senior living as most of your living expenses will be included in your monthly fee.  At MorningStar that includes basic cable TV and utilities, daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, fitness room, salon, onsite theatre, bistro, and more. 

Furthermore, if you start out in one of our suites or cottages for independent living, and down the road, require help with daily personal care or memory care, you get priority placement and will not pay an internal transfer fee.  We consider this just one of the many advantages to living in a community with more than one neighborhood under our roof.  

For luxury assisted or senior independent living, MorningStar of Billings is sure to impress.  We are a safe, comfortable community with resort-style amenities, meaningful activities and a staff who is honored to serve seniors.  Please contact us regarding availability and pricing.

MorningStar of Billings offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “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 to create a true “home” for residents.  We encourage you to contact us for more information regarding unparalleled senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Eye Exam Guidelines for Older Adults

As we age, so do our eyes.  Starting in our late thirties or forties, it is common for people to develop Presbyopia, a normal condition that causes our eyes to gradually lose their ability to see things clearly up close.  Even the word "presbyopia" means "old eye" in Greek.  According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are several conditions and diseases that occur more commonly in older eyes, which is why they recommend eye exam guidelines specifically for older adults.

To start, they advise all adults to have a comprehensive baseline eye evaluation by an ophthalmologist at age 40.  For people age 40 to mid-fifties without risk factors, the recommendation is to have one every 2 to 4 years.  At 55 to 64, eye exams should be done every 1 to 3 years.  From age 65 and older, adults without risk factors should be examined every 1 to 2 years.    

Routine eye exams for seniors are important as many age-related eye diseases do not exhibit symptoms early.  Also, any one with health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and even certain medications as well as environmental factors like sun exposure and smoking can cause eye-related problems.  

Senior eye diseases include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and other eye conditions.  Women are more likely than men to have glaucoma and somewhat more likely to have cataracts.  In addition, the American Academy of Ophthalmology wants seniors to know that vision problems are not a normal part of aging and may indicate a problem.  Also remember to keep your ophthalmologist apprised of any new health conditions.     

MorningStar at Bear Creek is devoted to individualized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Residents are offered a wide range of care services including transportation to medical appointments, scheduled physician visits, onsite diagnostics, pharmaceutical, and much more. 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.  

For informational purposes only, please consult your eye care or health care professional if you notice any problems with your vision. 

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 Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

Source: aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/seniors-vision-develop

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s Approach to Memory Care

MorningStar at Arrowhead is committed to provide the best senior living Peoria and Glendale offers, which includes compassionate and loving memory care devoted to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Regardless of whether your loved one is at the onset of the disease or well into the more advanced stages, we can care for them.   

MorningStar’s approach to memory care starts with the utmost professionalism and respect for the individual and works toward replacing medications with alternative natural therapies including patience, attention and love whenever possible.  Our specially-trained care managers use gentle, resident-directed methods to calm and awaken memories and to support each resident’s capabilities.  Common techniques include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy as well as a range of meaningful and purposeful activities that incorporate art, music, and life skills.  

Our personalized approach to memory care also means we make a point to get to know each resident including their background, vocation, talents and preferences.  Once we feel we truly know the “person”, we can then effectively setup a daily routine that is designed around stimulating or calming the resident.  In addition, it allows us to quickly adjust their routine in response to a particular mood or situation.  We also understand that physical exercise is important to an individual’s overall well-being so every day residents have the opportunity to strengthen and stretch their bodies.    

You will find our Reflections Neighborhood is uniquely designed to address all the various needs of our residents.  We offer security and comfort with a choice of floorplans as well as a secure courtyard for memory care residents.  Furthermore, MorningStar at Arrowhead has a 24-hour care staff, full-time licensed nurse, regular health monitoring, and is a pet friendly community.  We also offer assistance if needed with our nutritional, Executive Chef prepared meals.

Contact us to schedule a visit to experience our community firsthand.  We know you will be gratified to discover a staff that is committed to providing compassionate and loving care to our special residents each and every day. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living Peoria or Glendale has to offer.

Learn More About MorningStar at Bear Creek

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers the Colorado Springs area individualized, compassionate memory care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  We attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership.  We feel extremely blessed to have a team of individuals working for us who are guided by their hearts and feel privileged to serve seniors.  They are the kind of people that do the right thing even when no one is looking and willingly go the extra mile to help our residents. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s care is guided through “Radiance,” our proprietary program, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light.  It forms the framework for how our service is delivered – with warmth, sincerity and depth!  Additionally our Radiance program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

Once a team member is hired, they are trained in Radiance. and it is reiterated and strengthened each day during our daily “Huddle.”   We feel Radiance is lived out in a variety of ways throughout our community, and helps us to create an atmosphere of love, compassion and care as well as service professionalism.

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

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

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

MorningStar at Arrowhead Likes to Have Fun!

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead is dedicated to provide the best senior living Peoria or Glendale has to offer.  Our community is specifically designed for seniors who value their independence but need a little assistance.   We provide a “true home” for our residents and strive to create a family-like atmosphere that is supportive and loving.  In addition to our wide range of wellness and fun activities and outings, we host special celebrations and events throughout the year.

Looking at the “Life Around Our House” section on our website, you will see an assortment of pictures from some of our special events at MorningStar at Arrowhead.  These activities range from a delightful Grandparent's Day full of friends, family and all-around fun to residents and team members having a rootin’ tootin’ good time at the MorningStar at Arrowhead hoedown.

We also encourage you to look at the picture of MorningStar at Arrowhead resident Bruce, who is a Co-Founder of Sun Country Corvette Club, when he received a special surprise. Nineteen Corvettes, ranging from old to new, were driven to our community to honor Bruce and make his wish come true. ​Along with events like the Labor Day White Out, when residents and team members dressed in white to celebrate the holiday, pumpkin carving, special birthday celebrations, a Beach Party Cookout and more, we always seem to have a good time!

Our community has 60 private assisted living suites along with 25 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living Peoria or Glendale has to offer.

Loneliness in Aging Adults Can Impact Their Health and Wellbeing

A study from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) found that loneliness in aging adults can impact their health and wellbeing and be responsible for accelerating seniors’ decline and death.  They cite that “people 60-years-old and older who reported feeling lonely saw a 45 percent increase in their risk for death.  Isolated elders also had a 59 percent greater risk of mental and physical decline than their more social counterparts.”

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 28 percent of people 65 years and older (11 million at the time of the census) lived alone.  In addition to living alone, there are several reasons seniors feel lonesome including losing a spouse.   Furthermore, the AARP reports that more and more seniors do not have children, which means fewer family members available to provide companionship and care.  As many elderly people stop driving, they may not have a convenient way to get around and this can contribute to more feelings of isolation. 

Researchers also discovered that isolated seniors often behave in ways that make others less likely to want to spend time with them.  Not only do the seniors resist the efforts of those who want to reach out but actually push them away.

If you have an elderly parent or know someone who is living alone, there are some easy things you can do to make them feel cared about.  One way is to really engage them in conversation and ask questions and listen to their stories about the past.  Another thing you can do is to help them find a hobby they will enjoy or rekindle an interest in something they used to do.   If you live a distance from an elderly parent, call frequently and send greeting cards or small gifts that let them know you are thinking of them. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Peoria area MorningStar at Arrowhead may be your answer.  We provide an ideal place to socialize and form bonds with both residents and staff and all the comforts of a real home.  Please visit our website to learn more.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  Set in a loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living Peoria or Glendale has to offer.

Source: agingcare.com/Articles/loneliness-in-the-elderly-151549.htm

Independent Living at MorningStar of Billings

MorningStar of Billings’ goal is to provide the best senior living in Billings and we invite you to take a closer look at the many benefits of moving into an independent living community. While some seniors feel strongly about remaining in their homes after retirement, other seniors are very happy to have discovered the advantages of community living.

A senior living community provides the opportunity to say goodbye to never-ending yard work, home maintenance and housekeeping chores.  After all who wants to spend precious retirement years mowing the lawn or shoveling snow when you can use the time for more fulfilling activities?  MorningStar of Billings provides residents with activities and programming that ensure you are never bored.  Whether you want to attend an exercise class, take a swim, play cards or a board game, get a haircut, or catch a movie, independent living gives you the chance to do it all on-site. 

Community living also solves another problem many seniors face - loneliness.  As we age, older adults can have difficulty getting out and about, and may be at risk for losing their social ties and more likely to develop health problems that come with loneliness.  An independent living community offers the advantage of a private apartment and the chance to socialize whenever you choose with built-in companionship.  Even if you are the type of person who values privacy, senior living offers the reassurance of having people around when you need them.  

Predictable budgeting is yet one more benefit of senior living as most of your living expenses will be included in your monthly fee.  At MorningStar of Billings that includes basic cable TV and utilities, daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, swimming pool, fitness room, onsite theatre, housekeeping and trash removal, and more.  Please visit our website for more information regarding our senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.  We feel privileged to provide seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and 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 senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Balance Exercises are Easy to Do

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest statistics show that one in four Americans aged 65 years and older falls each year.  The result is that “each year 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries; and over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.” 

While these are worrisome facts, experts say there are some simple exercises seniors can do to help prevent falls and maintain their independence. Remember a common injury caused by an elderly person falling is a hip fracture that can seriously impact their life. 

Most balance exercises are easy to learn and do, do not require special equipment or a trip to the gym, and can be done anywhere.  The Mayo Clinic explains that while many exercises including walking can help maintain good balance, there are specific exercises targeted at improving a senior’s balance and stability.  They do caution however that if you have severe balance problems or an orthopedic condition, to get your doctor's okay before starting balance exercises.

Examples of balance exercises include: standing on one foot, walking heel to toe, back leg raises, and side leg raises.  To do the standing on one-foot exercise, stand behind a sturdy chair; gripping for balance, lift one foot off the floor.  Hold for 10 seconds and then repeat with the opposite legs.  Repeat the exercise several times and increase the repetition as your strength increases.  

Walking heel to toe is done by positioning the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot.  Your heel and toes should be touching.  Now select a spot ahead of you and focus on it to help keep you steady as you walk.  Try to step forward for as many as 20 steps.  Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for other balance exercises.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is devoted to the individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.    Along with a monthly calendar full of activities to engage residents, we offer exercise classes to improve balance, strengthen muscles, and increase joint flexibility.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving Alzheimer’s care community.

This post is for informational purposes only.  Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercises. 

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 Alzheimer’s care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar of Arrowhead’s “Radiance” Program

One essential thing that sets MorningStar at Arrowhead apart from other senior living communities is our unique approach to service.  At MorningStar, all of our new team members are trained in our proprietary service program known as “Radiance.”  The program is much more than just a way to offer customer service to our residents but rather our brand standard of Service Excellence. 

The very essence of Radiance begins in a deep and sincere place, much like a beam of light, and celebrates an attitude of selflessness.  The program provides us with a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others and is the basis for how we dispense service - through warmth, sincerity and depth.  Along with introducing the program to each new team member, we also will be reiterating and strengthening the program’s concepts during daily short meetings called the “Huddle.” 

In 2003, MorningStar was founded on the premise that the company will operate with “servants’ hearts” and the Radiance program gives us the framework that enables us to take our service professionalism to the next level.  We recognize that the heart of each MorningStar community rests in the quality of our caregivers, which is why we hire individuals who have a calling to serve seniors and understand the importance of their contribution.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s compassionate and caring team always has a ready smile for our residents as well as the time to listen to a story and lend a helping hand where needed.   We invite you to visit our website to learn more about the area’s best assisted living and memory care.  

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 Glendale, AZ.

Do You Need an Attorney that Specializes in Elder Law?

There are some legal problems unique to older adults that many attorneys are not equipped to provide accurate advice about such as Medicaid, Social Security or disability claims, trusts or estate planning, or issues regarding long term care.  When an elderly person requires the services of an attorney to protect their financial interests or to solve legal issues, experts recommend hiring an elder law attorney who specializes in advocating for the elderly and their loved ones.

The FindLaw website explains, “Most elder law attorneys handle a wide range of legal matters affecting an older or disabled person, including issues related to health care, long term care planning, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and other important matters.”  However, remember that as with all attorneys, elder law attorneys also specialize in specific areas of the law so look for one that has the expertise you need.

Many families find it makes good sense to hire an elder attorney to protect and preserve their loved one’s assets when they sell their home to move into a senior living community.  This is a case where you would want to find one that specializes in financial and estate planning.  The elder attorney also can assist with legal issues that arise with the actual care of the senior including helping to sort out supplemental and long-term health insurance problems. 

An elder attorney can draw up a durable power of attorney as well as draft a living will, living trust or other advance directives, or set up conservatorships and guardianships.  They can help answer questions regarding nursing home resident rights and other patient rights,

To find an elder law attorney, experts recommend asking friends, family members or other business connections for referrals.  Findlaw.com says you can check online and read through websites or use their online attorney directory. 

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 patients in Colorado Springs. 

Source: elder.findlaw.com/what-is-elder-law/what-does-an-elder-law-attorney-do-.html

Join the MorningStar of Billings Family

At MorningStar of Billings, our whole team is committed to being one of the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care communities in the area and to live up to our unique mission statements as follows:

·         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    

MorningStar Senior Living’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, began the company out of his desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He said his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Sixteen years later, MorningStar has continued to grow and prosper with over 30 communities in 10 states open or under construction.

Our team is made up of a group of individuals who do the right thing even when no one is watching and feel privileged to serve seniors.  Our compassionate community is filled with love and laughter as we aspire to and nurture our core value of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  These are the ways by which we want to offer care and build Family for Life.

We are sure that once you learn more about our community you will agree with us that MorningStar is a great place to call home.  Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself our loving, home-like community.

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with a spacious campus in a beautiful, park-like neighborhood and resort-style amenities. 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.

Finding the Best 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 assisted living for those with memory impairment.  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?  The first recommendation is to make sure that the memory care 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, make 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. 

When you tour the community ask questions regarding the staff to resident ratio during the day as well as at night and what type training the staff receives.  Be sure to ask whether there is a nurse on staff and if the community 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.

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.

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

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s Extraordinary Team

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s mission is to provide assisted living for dementia patients unmatched by other senior communities in Colorado Springs.  Our holistic care is extended not only for the comfort of our residents but to affirm their dignity and value; and in order for us to deliver on a promise of extraordinary care – it requires the commitment of an extraordinary MorningStar staff.

We are blessed to have assembled a distinguished team starting at the top with Executive Director, Larissa Evans who brings to our community her passion for serving seniors.  She is dedicated to changing the senior living environment for this wonderful and fragile population. She says “seniors have so many valuable life lessons to share. I love learning from their legacies and helping to honor their lives.” She goes on to explain that working at MorningStar whose mission aligns with her personal and professional values is “a dream come true.”

The whole dedicated, hardworking Bear Creek team are the type of people who are at the ready to meet every expressed (and often unexpressed) need as they care for our special residents.  MorningStar’s hiring process starts with heart, and as such, one of the first things we look for is character, kindness and selflessness.  We are committed to hiring individuals with a felt calling to serve and who love the idea of working with seniors.  These are the people residents and families will interact with every day, and we are certain that in no time, they will start to feel like part of your family.    

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

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with 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 patients in Colorado Springs.

Socialization is Beneficial to Seniors’ Health and Wellbeing

Studies show that socialization is a key component to a senior’s overall health and can help to reduce stress and anxiety and maintain cognitive health as well as improve longevity.  Conversely older adults who are isolated have been found to be more at risk for a range of health problems including cardiovascular disease and depression. 

Researchers also found that the more social a person is the more likely they are to exercise on a regular basis.  This is important as older adults are susceptible to a number of health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart trouble, cancer and chronic illnesses that can benefit from exercise. In addition daily exercise can prevent muscles and bones from deteriorating in old age.  A good way for older adults to exercise is at a community class designed for seniors as you have the opportunity to socialize and to stay motivated. 

Senior living communities such as MorningStar of Billings provide seniors a healthy lifestyle designed around comfort, wellness and community.  Our mission is to care for residents’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs within a loving, secure setting. MorningStar’s monthly calendar consists of a range of exercise classes, arts and crafts projects, and enjoyable, challenging games.  We also have fun celebrating holidays and hosting special events and outings. 

MorningStar of Billings offers 32 cottages and 72 spacious suites for senior independent living along with 70 assisted living suites for those needing help with daily activities.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 36 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please 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 senior independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source:

actsretirement.org/latest-retirement-news/blog/2017/12/12/the-importance-of-socializing-for-seniors/

Trusted Memory Care at MorningStar of Billings

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

At MorningStar of Billings, we want you to know we are here to help.  Our beautiful independent living, assisted living and memory care community is located on the west end of town in a beautiful, park-like neighborhood near shopping, restaurants and medical facilities.   As dementia care experts, we provide specialized, individualized care to each resident and are equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease all the way through to the most advanced stages. 

Our holistic approach to memory care focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss, and our team of compassionate caregivers feels privileged to serve seniors.  All of our 36 memory care suites are in a separate area we call Reflections Neighborhood.  This spacious neighborhood is specifically designed to allow residents the independence to safely explore their surroundings. 

Every aspect of our dementia care addresses the unique needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs and activities and healthy, delicious meals.  We encourage you to visit our website for contact information or to set up a tour of our loving 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.