Quality Senior Living at MorningStar of Billings

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MorningStar of Billings is not just another senior living community. Our differences start with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing generously as we proudly serve those who first served us. We also have a team that is empowered in the MorningStar culture of Radiance, which emphasizes customer service excellence and development of true servant-leadership. These devoted staff members understand the rewards of working with seniors and love the ways in which they learn from them. 

Along with their efforts to enhance quality of life for residents, our community offers a full array of resort-style amenities and activities. These include a wide range of fun and/or meaningful ways to stay engaged each day. From enjoying a movie, working on a craft in the life enrichment room or flexing your brains in a competitive game of cards, MorningStar of Billings is the perfect place to comfortably age in place.

All-day, restaurant-style dining means you can follow your own schedule. Grab a quick lunch or sit long over a relaxing meal in your choice of venues.  At MorningStar we feel breaking bread together offers far more than physical nutrients – it helps to bond us together as family and friends.

We also have options to help keep physical fit. Our fitness center has a range of machines and weights; or join our many exercise classes which are both fun and invigorating. Afterwards, enjoy a spa bath. 

Our scheduled transportation means it is easy to get to and from important medical appointments. Moreover, MorningStar’s group outings include trips to restaurants, shopping and other venues.  To meet your spiritual needs, services are available. In other words, throughout the day; meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment keep you as busy as you like. 

For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive care. As part of our commitment to provide security and safety for our most tender residents, we utilize Safely You technology to help detect and prevent falls for memory care residents with Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

To learn more about our community, we invite you to visit our website to browse through our extensive content regarding cottages, suites, amenities and programs. You will find reviews from residents and their families as well as background on MorningStar Senior Living’s philosophy and mission. If you like what you see, please contact us to set up a personalized tour on our assisted living. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care in Billings, MT.

Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?

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There has been much in the news lately about Vitamin D including how much we need each day and the fact that far too many people may be deficient. Medical professionals say there are not many foods high in Vitamin D so relying only on what we eat can be challenging. It is estimated close to half of all Americans are deficient in D; but without a blood test, it is difficult to know for sure. 

Vitamin D is good for us as it contributes to bone health by aiding our bodies with absorbing calcium and phosphorus. It additionally helps nerves carry messages between the brain and other parts of the body as well as fights inflammation.  

A food high in D is rainbow trout. Dieticians say one 3-ounce serving contains 645 IUs, which is more than the daily recommended serving for adults. Other foods high in D include salmon, which is high in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, egg yolks and canned tuna. Mushrooms grown under UV light also have a good amount of vitamin D. Another source is food fortified with D such as many types of milk, yogurt, cereals and orange juice. 

If you are concerned about sun exposure due to the risk of skin cancer and don’t want to get vitamin D that way, experts say it only takes about 10 to 30 minutes of daily direct sunlight exposure to ensure vitamin production. The National Institutes of Health recommends a daily allowance of 600 international units IU (15 micrograms) of vitamin D for most adults. For seniors 70 years and older, 800 IU (20 micrograms) is the daily recommendation. Ask your doctor for a blood test to determine your current levels and how much vitamin D you need. 

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings offers stylish cottages and suites for independent and assisted living with a choice of floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Our many services, wellness programs and activities are designed to support and enhance residents’ physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Billings, MT.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/vitamin-d-foods

Staying Active and Engaged Despite Health Challenges

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While growing older can bring a new appreciation of life, it can also bring a series of challenges including a decline in health that impacts a person’s mobility. This can be due to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity. Other causes are diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as profound vision or hearing loss that interferes with abilities and requires people to rethink some of their lifelong activities.

The good news is many of the things’ people enjoyed doing can still be done – they just may need some modifications. During this phase of life, you may discover new activities you enjoy just as much as the things you had to let go. Most importantly, experts say do not define yourself by your limitations.

Rather, they remind seniors that staying active and engaged has many benefits including boosting physical and mental health; and provides people with a sense of purpose and meaning to their lives. It has also been shown to improve memory and slow cognitive decline. Studies find seniors who stay socially active can even lower blood pressure, elevate mood and reduce anxiety and stress.

Some activities enjoyed by seniors with limited mobility include things like gardening in raised-beds, chair yoga, Tai-chi, water aerobics and low-impact resistance training.  Creative pursuits such as painting or drawing, playing a musical instrument and learning a new cuisine; as well as games such as trivia or bridge bring meaning and joy to someone regardless of their physical limitations.   

Senior living communities are great places to help seniors find purpose and companionship, along with the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed.  For assisted living homes in the Phoenix area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our casitas and suites are well-designed to maximize space, and residents enjoy a whole host of luxury amenities, senior care services, wellness programs and activities.   

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care for those with memory impairment with compassionate, personalized support and services. Contact us for more information and to schedule a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge stands out with its mission: “to honor, to value, to invest.” We’re dedicated to respecting seniors, supporting staff, and offering quality memory care in a welcoming environment. For more details, please contact us or visit our website.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Casitas for Independent Seniors

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If you are a senior considering community living, let us introduce you to MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria, Arizona. Located on a large campus at North 67th Avenue and West Golden Lane, we are close to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and entertainment venues. A new adventure awaits in our vibrant community for independent seniors. 

For active seniors, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas as quadraplexes with high-end finishes and attached garages.  The Casitas, tucked into their own secluded neighborhood, allow you to fully enjoy your retirement years stress free.  Our staff handles all the maintenance, both inside and out, along with included housekeeping services.  And in case you were wondering, MorningStar welcomes pets.

Included in your monthly fee, you will receive two meals per day. Our chef-created seasonal menus feature the freshest ingredients from high quality producers and include BrainWise foods and other healthy choices. As a resident you will have access to a range of amenities including a saline swimming pool with hot tub, bistro bar, fitness centers, theater/chapel, salon, and much more.  Also, you are sure to enjoy the outdoor dining patio, courtyards, and landscaped grounds.  Furthermore, everyone in our community benefits from a wide range of wellness programs and activities.

Unlike some other senior communities in the area, MorningStar at Golden Ridge also provides assisted living homes and memory care so if your needs should change, we are here to help.  While you will find our website showcases pictures of our beautiful community, it doesn’t show the loving atmosphere that permeates throughout our home.   We attribute this to our exceptional team that feels honored to serve seniors, and works hard every day to provide residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to schedule a tour.

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 earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Steps to Improve Your Health and Longevity

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During the last several years, researchers have studied the steps we can take to improve longevity. Their overwhelming findings point to a healthy diet, exercise and strong social ties; and who of us does not want to live longer and enjoy better health along the way? The Medical News Today states, “Making healthy choices around these three factors may be key to living the long, fulfilling lives we strive for, and since it is never too late to start making positive changes, now is as good a time as any to make health a top priority.”

They cite key factors to help achieve this goal. The first regards diet, which includes eating less red meat and avoiding salt. They recommend a Mediterranean diet as it is mostly plant-based and relies on minimally processed ingredients and healthy fats. It consists of whole grains, fruits and vegetables; beans and legumes, fatty fish, seeds and nuts. Experts say the diet can help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Next on the list to help you live longer and healthier is exercise, and it doesn’t mean having to become a marathon runner or train for hours each day. Experts say taking a daily walk can improve longevity and is safe for older adults. In fact, Ryan Glatt, CPT, NBC-HWC, a senior brain health coach and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in the study, told MNT that “the benefits are most significant for individuals who are inactive, as even small increases in physical activity substantially reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and premature death.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends adults exercise at least 150 minutes a week spread out over several days. Other healthy exercises include swimming, cycling, aerobic exercise and strength training as well as flexibility exercises.

You may be wondering how a good social life will help you live longer but the proof is in studies that have found staying social can help a person not only live longer but be healthier. Researchers explain adults who say they feel lonely and isolated have a higher risk of chronic diseases, depression and early death as well as an increase in the risk of stroke.

For independent or senior living, Phoenix area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge, the perfect place for successful aging. We are an all-inclusive community, boasting a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef, wellness programs and activities, luxury amenities and care services. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us for more information about our beautiful assisted living homes.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/3-ways-to-boost-longevity-in-2025

Dementia Patients Are at High Risk of Wandering

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The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander.  The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home.  Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home. 

Experts say anyone with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering.  Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe. 

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one.  Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times.  Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas. 

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and try to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out.  In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out.  You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.   

Along with independent and senior living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers memory care in a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including an outdoor area. Our holistic approach is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love and compassion. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on senior living.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge stands out with its mission: “to honor, to value, to invest.” We’re dedicated to respecting seniors, supporting staff, and offering quality independent living, assisted living, and memory care in a welcoming environment. For more details, please contact us or visit our website.

Sources:

alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering

agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm

By Age Seventy, One in Five Americans Will Develop Skin Cancer

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The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that the most common cancer in the US is of the skin and strikes one in five people by age 70. The good news is 99 percent of all cases are curable if they are diagnosed and treated early enough. However, to spot skin cancer, we need to look for it, which is why doctors recommend adults to do a routine skin check once a month and have a skin check with a dermatologist at least once a year.

Since we are the best ones to notice any changes in our skin, it helps to know what to look for. Experts explain skin cancers appear in many shapes and sizes, and warning signs are associated with the different types of skin cancers. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (also called basal cell skin cancer) is the most common type of skin cancer accounting for 8 out of 10 cases. Basal cell cancer starts in the basal cell layer (the lower part of the epidermis).

The Mayo Clinic explains that squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. While not life-threatening, it can be aggressive and typically occurs on sun-exposed skin including the scalp, the backs the hands, ears or lips, but can also occur on any part of the body.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and generally develops anywhere in the body that has been exposed to UV light. Additionally, it may be found in spots not typically exposed to sunlight such as the bottom of the feet. The Mayo Clinic says melanoma can start as a change in an existing mole or a development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on the skin.

It is important to avoid UV light from the sun or tanning beds as it is one of the top culprits to damaging and aging the skin as well as causing skin cancer. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you have a sore or scab that doesn’t heal or a flat patch of scaly skin that doesn’t go away.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers stylish casitas and suites for independent and assisted living, with a selection of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Residents enjoy a vibrant and carefree lifestyle with a full range of care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the care of those living with memory impairment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living in Peoria, Arizona.

Senior Living Communities Encourage Socialization

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One often overlooked benefit of moving to a senior living community is the idea of built-in companionship. It solves the problem of not having to organize and travel to activities in your area.  Also, inclement weather doesn’t stand in your way from getting together with friends or watching a movie, attending worship services or laughing over a game of trivia.

Loneliness and feelings of isolation in the elderly are common in the US and not surprising as 27% of Americans 60 and over live by themselves. A 2023 survey from the National Poll on Healthy Aging showed one in three adults aged 50–80 (34%) felt isolated from others (29% some of the time, 5% often) in the past year.

Experts say this can be problematic as research shows older adults who express loneliness have a 32% increase in the risk of stroke and a 29% increase in heart disease. Other problems include a disruption in sleep, higher blood pressure and increased stress levels. It can also be a predictor of functional decline and even death in adults over 60. WebMD cites studies linking people who are socially isolated to an approximately 50% higher risk of getting dementia.

As you grow older, children may have moved away or a spouse died, and you may have experienced the loss of other close relatives and friends. You may no longer work, and thus no longer enjoy companionable relationships with work colleagues. This is where senior living communities can be a big help as they not only provide maintenance-free living but the companionship and sense of well-being knowing someone is always around.

MorningStar of Billings is a wonderful example of the vibrant lifestyle senior communities offer to residents. Our beautiful home is designed to provide the ideal living arrangement for residents with options for independent living, assisted living or memory care. Please contact us for more information about our many senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities.

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 earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/what-to-know-about-living-alone-after-60

Focus on the Positive Aspects of Your Life

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Many of us have felt the world is a scary place at one time or another, but studies show the simple practice of gratitude can go a long way toward helping us feel happier and less anxious. In fact, experts say it is linked to mental and physical health benefits like feeling more optimistic and hopeful as well as strengthening relationships, boosting immunity, lowering blood pressure, improving sleep and decreasing the risk of depression.

However, just like other healthy habits; the practice of gratitude takes a conscious effort. Experts say to receive the full benefits; it should not be saved only for special occasions but rather practiced every day.

To begin, we need to understand exactly what “gratitude” is. Erin Wiley, M.A., L.P.C.C., a licensed clinical psychotherapist and executive director of The Willow Center, explains that gratitude is “a positive state of mind evoked by focusing on and appreciating the good in one’s life.” By adopting a positive state of mind, we can concentrate on the good things as well as deal with negative events that come into our lives in a more fruitful way. 

A helpful suggestion for getting into the habit of feeling more grateful includes using a journal daily to express your gratitude. In the same way, vocalizing feelings of gratitude gives them power and can help to override negative feelings. Also, spread your feelings of gratitude toward others in your life. Actions such as volunteering are yet another way to feel gratitude.   

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge, we offer independent and assisted living designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle that allows residents to live life to the fullest. Spacious casitas and suites are available in a variety of floor plans. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides trusted memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is in Peoria, Arizona, a northern suburb of Phoenix and close to shopping, restaurants, entertainment venues and medical services. Please contact us to schedule a personalized tour of our beautiful community of assisted living.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Source: prevention.com/health/mental-health/a44398876/how-to-practice-gratitude

Memory Issues Aren't Always Due to Dementia

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Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored.

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory.

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve.

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable. 

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Billings offers specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about our community and approach to care on senior living.

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 to learn more about outstanding memory care in Billings.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

MorningStar at Golden Ridge Supports Your Independence

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One of the hardest things many seniors face is a chronic illness or condition that interferes and limits their independence. Burdening our spouse or another loved one with our day-to-day care is not the thing most of us want to do. In fact, it may be the time to investigate assisted living and discover what it can offer to you and your family.

Assisted living is not skilled nursing but rather compassionate senior care for the ADLs (activities of daily living). It is based around the person’s needs to ensure they get the proper support to maintain their independence within a community setting. Senior living communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge provide residents with responsive 24/7 caregivers, access to licensed nurses, medication management, third-party care providers and more.

Our spacious suites available are in a variety of floor plans, which are meticulously designed with high ceilings, large windows, handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Each unit is equipped with a kitchenette, private temperature control and most have a washer/dryer. To maintain cleanliness and comfort, weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal are included.

In addition to senior care services, residents are provided with hospitality amenities such as all-day restaurant-style dining, eliminating the need to shop, prepare, and cook meals independently. The resort-style facilities include an onsite salon, swimming pool, life enrichment areas, bistro bar, fitness centers and theatre/chapel. Our dining patio and lovely grounds encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors. We also accommodate pets, subject to our pet policy.

In addition, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers trusted care in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood based on Lavender Sky, our programmatic approach to memory care. It is our philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents. Our ambition under a Lavender Sky is to Enter, Embrace and Explore.

For more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, Arizona, please contact us. We would love to set up a personalized tour and show you firsthand our beautiful community.

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 independent living in Peoria, Arizona.

MorningStar Offers Luxury Senior Living in Billings, Montana

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For exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Billings offers residents a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  For the most active seniors our community has independent living cottages and suites in a choice of one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans for carefree retirement years and a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  

For those needing help with the activities of daily living, we have assisted living suites and provide a nurturing environment that allows residents to thrive. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 36 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  To ensure residents’ every need is met, we offer a broad range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more.     

For a deep dive into our community, our website is a good place to start as it is loaded with information including a list of amenities, pictures, and background on the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  We explain more about what the difference is between independent living, assisted living, and memory care, along with a decision guide to help your family determine if assisted living is the right choice for your loved one.  You will also find links discussing affordability and Aid & Attendance for veterans along with a link to our Rooted Blog with education and inspiration for seniors.

Our website’s FAQs are handy as they go over a whole range of topics to many of the questions you most likely have. This includes information on how prices are structured, how the level of care is determined in assisted living, our transportation services and pet policy.  Other popular questions regard our dining program and medication management services.  

While this is just a portion of the extensive information on our site, we are also ready to answer any other questions you may have through a phone call, Facebook, or use our Virtual Assistant that lets you inquire about pricing and request a tour.  We look forward to hearing from you.  


MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

The Benefits of Strength Training

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For years, doctors have been advising their patients to include aerobiotic exercise in their daily lives. Among the many benefits, research shows regular cardio activities improve brain health by increasing the volume of the regions that control memory and thinking. Recent studies also find weight training appears to increase cognition as well as prevent the development of atrophy in regions related to Alzheimer’s disease that could delay or prevent the onset of dementia.

Dr. Isadora Ribeiro, PhD, a São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) doctoral fellowship recipient at the School of Medical Sciences (FCM) at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in Brazil, writes, “Weight training can reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and increase levels of neurotrophic factors like BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which support the growth and survival of neurons. It also improves cardiovascular health and cerebral blood flow, all of which are important for maintaining brain function.”  She adds, the physiological changes from such training can reduce key risk factors for dementia such as obesity, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Weight training can also stimulate the release of a hormone associated with neuroprotection and improved brain plasticity. 

Experts say while weight training provides benefits regardless of how old you are; it is important for seniors to discuss any new exercises with their doctor as it can entail some risk. The safest route is to engage a professional to guide your journey and help protect against injuries. The other benefits of strength training include increasing overall strength, improving balance and stability that can reduce the risk of falls, and improving insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels. Another big benefit is weight training can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. 

At MorningStar of Billings, we provide residents with a full range of amenities and services so they can focus on the things that bring them joy and meaning. Our contemporary independent and assisted living cottages and suites are ready to move into and just require your personal furnishings. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, our dedicated Reflections Neighborhood provides memory care in an intimate setting where residents’ independence is encouraged and individual needs are met. Contact us to learn more and to set up a personalized tour of our beautiful senior living community. 

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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-weight-training-protect-brain-dementia-cognitive-decline