Dizziness Among Older Adults

Doctors say dizziness is a common complaint of older adults. Symptoms may include vertigo (feels like the room is spinning); light-headedness; faintness and weakness; and nausea. While confusing and uncomfortable to sufferers, experts say it’s rarely a sign of anything serious or life-threatening, and is generally treatable. However, if you experience acute, prolonged dizziness, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as chest pains, passing out and/or severe headache; seek immediate medical attention. 

Most causes of dizziness are from an inner ear disturbance, motion sickness, medications, or other conditions of poor health. To diagnose the problem, your doctor will want to know how long your dizziness lasts and other symptoms you may be having. Medications with the known side-effect of dizziness include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers. 

The Mayo Clinic explains that with inner ear disorders your brain receives signals from the inner ear that aren’t consistent with what your eyes and sensory nerves are receiving. Vertigo may result as the brain works to try and sort out the confusion. One common inner ear problem is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The condition comes on with sudden movements of the head that cause vertigo and is treated with certain maneuvers and medications like meclizine (an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness and dizziness).

Meniere’s disease is another inner ear condition and is the result of a fluid built-up in the inner ear. Symptoms include long-term vertigo caused by things like too much salt in the diet, coffee, alcohol and stress, as well as viral infections and congestion. Treatment includes altering your diet and medications to relieve fluid build-up.    

Dizziness can also be caused by migraines, neurological conditions, dehydration, low blood sugar and other conditions. It is important to remember that dizziness can increase your risk for a fall. If the condition persists, talk to your doctor who can help narrow down the causes of your dizziness and prescribe the appropriate treatment. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers exceptional assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.  Our unique approach to dementia care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and activities tailored to their special needs.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/symptoms-causes/syc-20371787

MorningStar at Bear Creek Offers Care to Those With Memory Impairment

At MorningStar at Bear Creek our entire community is devoted to assisted living dementia care.  We offer 48 suites for the personalized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and can accommodate those in the onset of the disease right through to the more advanced stages. 

Our approach to memory care is designed around our comprehensive program we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our reimagined 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 have a deep understanding of the different forms of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease that helps us to compassionately care for our memory impaired residents and to find the best ways to interact and communicate with them.  MorningStar’s specially trained staff uses an array of multi-sensory activities including art, dance, music, aromatherapy, life skills, exercise and animals to heal and comfort.   

Furthermore, we take the time to get to know a resident through interviews with their family members to learn about their history, vocation, talents and preferences.  We then use this knowledge to help us design an individualized care plan for the person.   

In addition, we provide daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, scheduled outings and special events.  Residents also enjoy getting outdoors with secure courtyards, patios, resident garden beds and strolling paths wrapping 75% of the building. Other amenities include a bistro, spacious gathering spaces, salon and fitness/therapy room.

Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms and include housekeeping and laundry service. All that is needed is a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they will feel right at home.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate assisted living dementia care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about Colorado Springs’ finest assisted living dementia care.

Can You Trust the Internet for Medical Advice?

Let’s be honest, many of us rely on the Internet for medical advice for ourselves or a loved one. While it can supply good answers, doctors also caution you have to be careful what sites you trust. There are many websites providing good medical information but there are also sites with misleading or even dangerous advice.

Dr. Michael Langan, an internal medicine physician at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, cautions anyone with a blog can dispense information and advice; and a good way to avoid misinformation is to ask your doctor to recommend the sites they trust. Additionally, the National Institute on Aging recommends using health websites sponsored by Federal Government agencies. They say a good place for reliable, up-to-date information is the National Institutes of Health, but at the same time, remind everyone that the Internet is no substitute for seeing your doctor or other health professional who can give you advice that caters to your specific situation. 

Other things to look for include name recognition such as the Mayo Clinic or the Cleveland Clinic. Moreover, remember sites that end in .gov, identity U.S. government agencies; .edu, educational institutions; and .org, usually designates nonprofit organizations (such as professional groups; scientific, medical, or research societies; and advocacy groups). A .com is a commercial site.

The NIH says to look for the date of the information (often can be found at the bottom of the page) and see if the authors and contributors are identified. If the author is listed, what is his/her background and what is their goal in writing the article or the intent of the organization it is written for. Is there any financial motive for the information? Check out the About Us or Contact Us pages as they provide background information about the organization.   

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, an assisted living dementia care community, we offer 48 suites devoted to the care of those with memory loss diseases.  Our unique approach to memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/online-health-information-it-reliable#where

Medications Often Cause Brain Fog in Older Adults

As we age, many seniors experience occasional “brain fog” or forgetfulness and have trouble comprehending and processing new information. Medical experts say this may be a normal part of aging but could also be from some of the medications you are taking. 

Dr. Mark Albers, a neurologist at the McCance Center for Brain Health at Harvard – affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital, says it is not uncommon for seniors to experience symptoms of brain fog when taking certain medications for the first time. He explains medications can affect memory more in aging adults as “older people tend to metabolize drugs more slowly, making them more sensitive to medications and more vulnerable to side effects.” 

Other reasons medications cause more problems in seniors are they often take larger doses of a drug and more frequently as well as take several drugs to treat one health condition. Moreover, older people may have a weakened blood-brain barrier. This barrier works to block toxins and other harmful substances including drugs from entering the brain, which may account for some memory problems. 

Sleep medications are one of the common medications that can be problematic. Over-the-counter sleeping aids can contain anticholinergic drugs, which are known to impair cognitive function, and some prescription sleep drugs diminish activity in parts of the brain involved in transferring short-term memories to long-term memory. Pain medications can additionally result in memory problems. The good news is once patients stop taking sleep or pain meds, modify the dose or replace the drug with a better option, many of the problems go away.    

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  As dementia care specialists, we provide support to our residents and their families with an array of services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/stuck-in-a-brain-fog-look-in-your-medicine-cabinet

If You Are Incapacitated, an Advance Directive Gives You a Voice

An advance directive is a legal document giving you a voice involving medical decisions in the event you are incapacitated. Many people shy away from creating such documents as they fail to realize how important they are, and mistakenly worry they are signing away their lives, and/or don’t like thinking about being so ill they are unable to make decisions.    

Advance care planning documents may include a living will, power of attorney and health care proxy. By planning ahead, they guide decisions made on your behalf if you are unable, and suffer from an incurable, irreversible illness, condition or disease determined to be terminal. Living wills specify the kind of medical treatment desired and many simply express the desire to not be given life-sustaining measures that only serve to prolong a person’s death. Specific details may be regarding care including the use of pain medications, antibiotics, hydration, feeding and the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or ventilators. 

A health care proxy is someone designated to express your wishes for medical care and has the same rights you would in requesting or refusing treatment. A durable power of attorney document names a person to act on your behalf if you are incapacitated and gives them the power to make financial decisions. 

The Harvard Medical School reports on some of the myths people have regarding advance care directives. They say you need to realize more care is not always better but can prolong the dying process without respect for quality of life or comfort. Refusing life support does not mean you are committing suicide but rather allowing your medical problem to be the cause of your death. Moreover, refusing life-extending treatment does not mean you are refusing comfort measures for pain management and symptoms. Talk to your family and doctor about your medical preferences, and be sure each has a copy of your advance directive documents.

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides individualized assisted living dementia care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our 48 suites include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans; and our home is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Having a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia is difficult, and we want you to know we are here to help. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our compassionate community and approach to care.

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

Medications That Increase Fall Risk

The Harvard Medical School reports it is estimated 1 in 3 people over age 65 will fall each year, and every 19 minutes a senior dies from a fall-related injury. Statistics show women are at higher risk for a fall but men are more likely to die from their injuries than women. 

Seniors should be aware of several things that can affect balance and lead to a fall. These include certain medications, inner ear problems, foot pain, weight changes and vitamin D deficiency. Anti-hypertensive medications prescribed to keep blood pressure under control or decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure are all known to affect balance. A common side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a condition that happens if blood pressure gets too low; and results in lightheadedness, faintness and dizziness especially when the person attempts to stand from a sitting or lying down position. 

Medications that suppress the central nervous system may also result in a fall as they reduce alertness, and slow reactions and movements. Some of these types of drugs include anti-anxiety medications like diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). Additionally, antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are used in over-the-counter sleep aids like Nyquil and Sominex, or combined with acetaminophen in products like Tylenol PM.  

If you or a loved one takes medication to treat an overactive bladder or tricyclic antidepressants to help lessen chronic pain, they too can affect a person’s balance. Other drugs that increase the risk of a fall are opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we proudly offer the Colorado Springs area individualized assisted living dementia care. If you are a family member searching for quality care for a loved one with memory impairment, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.  Set within a gentle, loving environment, our care takes a resident-directed approach that utilizes multi-sensory cues to calm and to awaken memories, to support capabilities and, above all, to affirm dignity and value.  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 value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We create a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our loving assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs, CO.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/preventing-falls

What Can Cause You to Bruise Easily?

As we age, many seniors discover new bruises on their body but have no memory of how they got there. The Medical News Today (MNT) explains this may be the result of the skin thinning and blood vessels weakening and/or that some people are just more prone to bruising. It can also run in families. Being a frequent, extreme bruiser includes having many bruises without remembering their cause; regularly developing bruises that take many weeks to heal and bleeding for longer than 10 minutes following an injury.

Excessive bruising and bleeding can be from medications, many of which seniors routinely take. These include drugs like warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and aspirin. Doctors say even certain herbal remedies such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, large quantities of garlic, ginger, and willow bark can increase the risk of bleeding or cause a change to blood vessels. The same is true for drugs like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids of which one example is prednisone.  

MNT reports liver disease is also associated with excessive bruising. “As the disease progresses, the liver may stop producing the proteins that help the blood clot. As a result, a person may experience excessive bleeding and easy bruising.” Other blood disorders and diseases such as hemophilia, senile purpura, or even vitamin deficiencies can include bruising as a symptom. Experts say consult your healthcare provider if you suddenly begin bruising more easily, have symptoms such as yellow skin, fever and low energy, taking medication and begin bruising, or getting painful bruises that are slow to heal. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek is proud to offer assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.  Our unique approach to dementia care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and activities tailored to their special needs.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.
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Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325525#causes

Reducing the Risk of Falls

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than one in four people aged 65 or older suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department.  In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death.  To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.

Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength.  Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed.  The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do.  

One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk.  This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.  Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides.  Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance.  Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds.  Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps.   

Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides.  Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds.  Now do the same with the other side.  Do each side 3 times. 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we offer 48 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss diseases.  Every aspect of our beautiful community is designed to meet the needs of our special residents, including the ability to explore their expansive surroundings freely and safely.  Each day is filled with activities that incorporate music, dance, art, exercise classes and the use of therapy animals. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about compassionate, loving assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source:healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try

Alzheimer’s Disease Affects Both Cognitive and Physical Abilities

Along with changes in the person’s memory and cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s disease affects a person’s physical abilities. Experts explain dementia symptoms can change everything from the way a person walks, talks, and how their body works. Normal body functions such as going to the bathroom, carrying on a conversation and maintaining balance become more and more difficult.  

While unfortunately we do not yet know the cause of Alzheimer’s, doctors suspect the symptoms are caused by a buildup of harmful proteins in the brain called amyloid and tau, which create clumps called tangles and plaque. These clumps get in the way of normal brain functions and kill healthy cells.

Changes caused by Alzheimer’s disease include loss of balance and coordination, which puts a person at a higher risk of a fall. A person’s feet may shuffle or drag along as they walk. Another symptom includes weakened muscles and fatigue that makes it difficult to stand or sit upright in a chair. Trouble controlling the bladder and bowels as well as seizures and twitches are other common symptoms.    

While some people experience a slower pace of the disease and live up to 20 years after a diagnosis, the average life expectancy is 4 to 8 years. The most common cause of death in a person with Alzheimer’s is pneumonia, another infection, or a heart attack. 

If you are looking for assisted living dementia care for a loved one in Colorado Springs, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Bear Creek. Our unique approach to memory care is all-encompassing and provides an environment in which your loved one is given the support they need to make the most of each day. Every aspect of our home is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted, safe and secure. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-body

Losing a Spouse is Associated With a Higher Risk of Cognitive Decline

It is hard to see someone we care about lose a beloved life partner; but as concerned family members or friends, we should know becoming a widow or widower as an older adult is associated with a higher risk of cognitive problems. CNN reported on an article from the journal JAMA Network Open regarding one such study. Researchers  found “over a three-year period, cognitive abilities declines three times faster in widowed adults with high levels of beta-amyloid – a key marker for Alzheimer’s – than in married people with equally high levels.”  

Researchers explain the association of widowhood and amyloid were compounded, not simply additive, indicating widowhood is a specific risk factor for cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s disease. However other experts caution this was a small study. They say it could be mild memory loss that was already present beforehand but was not obvious when the person had the support of a loving spouse. Both the steady companionship and socialization may have helped them stay emotionally engaged.   

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends widows and widowers make an effort to follow guidelines for decreasing their risk for Alzheimer’s, which includes exercising, engaging in cognitively stimulating activities, eating a healthy diet, managing stress levels and reducing cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers explain while different types of stress may not be entirely equal; the significant impact of widowhood is one that requires further study. 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek in Colorado Springs, we specialize in providing assisted living dementia care for seniors suffering from memory impairment. Our home has 48 suites in a variety of floor plans; and we are equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We know having a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is difficult and want you to know we are here to help. Visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community, our team and our company’s philosophy of care.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: cnn.com/2020/02/26/health/alzheimers-dementia-widowhood-wellness/

Hearing Loss May Contribute to Isolation, Depression and Dementia

According to the Medical News Today website, studies find hearing loss may contribute to social isolation, lower quality of life, disability, depression, and dementia. This can be especially problematic for people aged 80 years and older, who tend to have more advanced hearing losses. 

In 2015, researchers reported on a 25-year study, which focused on a link between hearing loss and dementia. At the start of the study, the 3,670 participants were 65 years or older and followed for over 25 years. Using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to measure cognitive decline, researchers say there appeared to be a correlation between self-reported hearing loss and cognitive decline. However, participants who used hearing aids did not show a significant cognitive decline, suggesting the use of hearing aids may offer a protective effect.

Experts say hearing loss may adversely impact a person’s ability to socialize as they miss out on vital verbal and emotional information that may directly impair brain structure and function. Or it could be that the person uses more energy to make sense of what they hear; and reduces the energy they have left for memory, language processing and attention.

It is recommended at age 60, all adults get a baseline hearing test and be rechecked every couple of years, regardless of whether they experience symptoms. John Hopkins Medicine reports one in 3 adults over age 65 has hearing loss, but due to a gradual change in their hearing, they may not be aware of it.  

Symptoms of age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, include the speech of others sounding muffled or slurred; high-pitched sounds, such as "s" or "th" being hard to distinguish; and having difficulty understanding conversation, especially if there is background noise. The person may notice men’s voices are easier to hear than women’s, because it is lower-pitched. 

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, MorningStar at Bear Creek is ready to help. Our comprehensive assisted living dementia care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. MorningStar’s holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey. Please visit our website for more information about our assisted living dementia care loving community in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/presbycusis 

Moving a Loved One to MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek

MorningStar at Bear Creek in Colorado Springs is committed to providing all-inclusive, compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  We strive to make each day as special as possible for our residents and we have a wonderful team of caregivers that help us achieve that goal.  

Unlike many memory care communities, our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ every need.   While a secure building, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding, and safe and inviting common areas, both inside and out. Rather than long sterile hallways, our figure-eight floor plan allows residents to explore yet find their way back to an open, inviting area.

As one of several dozen MorningStar communities across eleven states, we understand moving a loved one with dementia to memory care is a major lifestyle transition, and are ready to help in whatever way we can. We recognize, just as each individual is unique, so is their moving process.     

Our MorningStar team approaches the move-in with great sensitivity as we nurture a relationship with each new resident along with their family. Once a family decides on MorningStar, our moving-in process starts in earnest as we secure vital information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move including a medical assessment and physician’s plan of care. 

To make your loved one feel more comfortable in their new surroundings; we suggest furnishing their suite with familiar objects such as a favorite easy chair, pictures of family and friends, and decorations and mementoes. If you like; we can recommend moving companies experienced in senior transitions, and have furniture carts and dollies to borrow, if needed.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar at Bear Creek’s quality assisted living dementia care.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Gum Disease May Increase the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at Tuft University recently reported a link between gum disease, also known as periodontitis and periodontal disease, to an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection within the soft tissue of the mouth, and “about 47.2% of U.S. adults over 30 and 70% over 65 have gum disease,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The study, which was done with mice, discovered the correlation, but researchers hope the findings can be used to someday help reduce cases of Alzheimer’s disease. The authors cite Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a bacterium that causes gum disease and is already linked to kidney disease, diabetes and coronary problems to be the problem. 

The lead author, Dr. Jake Jinkun Chen, professor of periodontology and director of the Division of Oral Biology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine explains the purpose of the study is to identify and characterize the association of induced periodontal disease with Alzheimer’s disease. He says as F. nucleatum generates “inflammation both locally and systemically, it affects the Alzheimer’s disease phenotype, as Alzheimer’s itself is an inflammatory disease.” Additionally since the bacteria migrate and penetrate the brain, it can worsen the symptoms and signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Researchers plan further studies in humans and say although there is not a proven link yet; good oral health benefits our overall health. They also say to decrease our risk for Alzheimer’s, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise.  

As Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases progress, a loved one may need more care than they can get living at home. When the time comes for memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Bear Creek, a community committed to caring for individuals with memory impairment diseases. Our holistic care is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love. Contact us for more information about MorningStar’s assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek represents the very best in assisted living dementia care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bacteria-that-cause-gum-disease-may-increase-risk-of-alzheimers#Inflammation-and-Alzheimers-disease

Talking to Children about Alzheimer’s Disease

When a grandparent or another close family member or friend suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, it can be difficult for children to understand especially if they are very close to the person.  Most likely they have questions and concerns regarding the disease and may be struggling with a range of emotions including sadness and confusion. They may not know how to act around the person anymore or be frightened by the “strange behavior.”

Having grandma or grandpa call you by mom or dad’s name or asking the same question again and again are just some of the strange things kids see happening to a beloved grandparent. They may worry Alzheimer’s is contagious and it is important they know it isn’t but rather a degenerative disease that happens in the brain. If the person lives with them, teenagers may be embarrassed to have friends around due to the person’s behavior, and sometimes children withdraw from the person or lose patience.  

The Alzheimer’s Association suggests sitting down with your child and telling them while the person may forget your name, they can still feel your love. Encourage questions and provide honest answers, and perhaps together you can learn more about the disease. The experts offer ideas on things kids can do with the person such as listening to music, setting the table, working on a puzzle, reading a book or looking at family photos. As the person’s disease progresses, make sure your kids feel comfortable asking more questions. Regardless of how old we are, losing a loved one to Alzheimer’s disease is challenging for everyone.   

At Morningstar at Bear Creek, our entire community is devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Every aspect of our community is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, they deserve the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek represents the very best in assisted living dementia care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about our exceptional community.

Source: alz.org/documents/national/brochure_childrenteens.pd

Ensuring the Safety and Wellbeing of a Loved One with Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. Therefore, experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep your loved one safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. 

Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, install automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, investigate food delivery services. Additionally, lower the temperature of the water coming from your taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies in a locked area. 

To reduce the risk for falls, install grab bars in the bathroom and put non-skid mats in the tub or shower. Stairways should be well-lit and uncluttered as well as hallways and pathways from room to room. Doctors who work with Alzheimer’s patients caution it is important to remember it is a progressive disease, and there may be a time when more restrictive protocols are necessary such as closing off a staircase altogether.       

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers 48 suites for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our community is designed with the special needs of our residents in mind and includes secure courtyards, patios and strolling paths, suites equipped with emergency call systems, and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding within our secure building.  Each resident receives an individualized alzheimers care plan and participants in daily activities such as arts and crafts, listening or dancing to music, physical exercise, special celebrations and other events. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek represents the very best in assisted living dementia care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about our exceptional community.

Moving a Loved One to a Memory Care Community

For many suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, there comes a time when they require more professional care. Assisted living dementia care communities like MorningStar at Bear Creek are designed to care for those with Alzheimer’s as well as other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.

We all know moving is a chore but for a person suffering from memory loss, leaving a beloved home can be especially trying; and it is natural for families to worry about transitioning mom or dad into a memory care community. This is where tips from dementia care specialists can ease the way.

Experts say, if possible, it is helpful to plan early and discuss future living options while the person is still able to make reasonable decisions. Once the time comes for more care and a memory care community has been decided on, families need to search for one that best fits the person’s needs.

A Place for Mom, a senior living referral company, suggests several things we can do in advance to help smooth the transition including reminding the person they will be moving. If several family members are involved; stick to one script and keep it concise and simple. 

Another tip to help the person not panic is to pack their things at night while they are sleeping or out visiting friends. Decorate their new suite with personal items such as photos, mementos and other treasured objects without the room feeling cluttered. 

They suggest moving during a scheduled activity you know the person will love such as an art class or a game of bingo. It takes their mind away from the actual move and gives them an opportunity to meet other community members and staff. Also, remember it may take the person time to settle in, and time and patience is important from everyone involved.   

Once you decide on a particular home, meet the staff to talk about your parent’s background, talents, personal preferences, medical history, etc.  At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we use a query called “To Know Me is To Love Me,” to aid us in creating a daily routine to stimulate or calm in response to the resident’s mood or situation.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases, and every aspect of our loving home is designed to meet the needs of our special residents. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar and all the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

MorningStar at Bear Creek represents the very best in assisted living dementia care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about our exceptional community.