How to Spend the Holidays with Your Senior Parents

The holidays are one of the most special times of year for seniors. Between seasonal activities, time with family, and the holiday spirit, there is a lot to look forward to. Whether your senior parents are living independently or in assisted living, it is important to spend quality time with them during the holidays.

Quality Family Time

The most important aspect of the holidays for many seniors is quality time with family. Some families host out-of-town visitors, and it may be one of the only times of the year your senior parents get to spend with some members of their family. 

It can be easy to get wrapped up and distracted by all of the hustle and bustle of the season, but it is critical to build in quality family time. Make sure the family has time to catch up and connect over meals, after dinner, or during a fun activity.

Seasonal Activities

Holidays usually mean lots of fun seasonal activities in the community. Exploring some of these activities can be a great way to help your senior parents get out, stay active, and make connections in the community. Some examples of seasonal activities may include:

• Caroling

• Baking

• Live shows

• Holiday lights

• Volunteering

Some of these activities may only come around once a year, so take advantage of them when they come with your senior parents. Take this year to try something new; you never know when your family will have the opportunity to develop a new tradition.

Connect in the Community

The holidays are an important time for families, but don’t forget to help your parents connect in their local community as well. Whether that is through their retirement communities, neighborhood, or local church, checking in with friends and neighbors during the holiday season can bring joy to your parents this holiday season. 

Passing Down Traditions

Your senior parents are a source of wisdom and knowledge that they can pass down to you and the younger generations. Make time for them to pass down traditions and teach you or their grandkids new skills or family facts this holiday season. 

Traditions can be anything from singing songs to hanging decorations to baking treats. These traditions can live long into the future and be passed onto future generations.

Enjoy This Holiday Season with Your Senior Parents

Every holiday season with your senior parents is precious, but don’t put too much pressure on how you spend it with them. The most important thing is that you are together during this important time. 

Whether your parents are in assisted living or living independently, they should be as involved as possible in all holiday activities and have every opportunity to enjoy the holiday season with you.

Quality Assisted Living in Everett, WA

When it comes to finding quality assisted living in Everett, WA, most families quickly discover that not all assisted living communities are created equal. Assisted living communities exist along a spectrum, from communities meeting just the basic needs to communities that offer an abundance of amenities. 

Some of the amenities you’ll find in quality assisted living include the following.

Dining

Seniors in assisted living should enjoy their retirement time without having to worry about cooking each meal. That’s why one of the most important amenities in assisted living is dining. In quality assisted living communities, seniors will have access to multiple fresh meals a day. 

In addition, assisted living staff will carefully develop menus to ensure seniors are getting adequate nutrition each day. For seniors with food allergies or special dietary needs, staff can specially prepare meals.

Life Enrichment

Quality assisted living communities understand that creating a healthy environment must be done holistically. Fostering a senior’s potential must be done through several avenues, including physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social. 

Assisted living communities create meaningful social circles for residents to bond with their neighbors. They organize activities for residents to discover new interests and hobbies. They also encourage activity so that seniors can stay physically active. 

Personalized Attention

Residents in retirement communities should never feel like just a number. Quality assisted living includes highly skilled staff that is not only good at what they do but compassionate and understanding. Many residents in assisted living communities develop lifelong bonds with staff and have deep personal connections.

Sense of Community

One of the most detrimental experiences to senior health is loneliness. Loneliness can lead to real and sometimes significant negative health side effects. In assisted living, residents have daily opportunities to bond with fellow residents and staff. 

Senior living residents form real bonds and develop a strong sense of camaraderie and community that keeps feelings of loneliness at bay.

Clinical Services

Residents in assisted living should feel comfortable knowing that all of their medical needs can be met, even as their needs change. Sometimes, senior health can be unpredictable and change quickly, and seniors should be well taken care of regardless of their circumstances.

Quality assisted living communities will include rounding physicians who can offer wellness exams and routine medical advice. Staff also includes physician assistants and skilled nurses who can aid in both short-term and long-term intensive care. 

Finding Quality Assisted Living

Selecting the right assisted living community is a big and important decision. If you or a loved one is looking for a community, make sure to thoroughly do your homework, take tours, and ask questions. With a little due diligence, you or your loved one will be settled into a new life in their assisted living home.

Help Your Parent Transition to an Assisted Living Community

Moving to an assisted living community is a big change for most seniors. It may be one of the most significant life changes they’ve experienced in years. For many seniors, the move is a welcome change, but that doesn’t always mean it is easy, but there are a few ways you can help your parents transition to an assisted living community.

Take It Slow

There's no need to rush when it comes to making big life changes like moving to assisted living. If at all possible, plan the move well in advance so that your parents have time to adjust to the change and get used to the idea over time. 

Rushing the move can lead to more uncertainty and make the transition more difficult. Starting the discussion about the move to senior housing earlier rather than later can give you the time you need to take the transition at your own pace.

Plan Ahead

The best way to remove uncertainty from a situation is to have a plan. Moving can require a lot of logistics, and you need to have a plan in place to avoid unintended mishaps. 

If you can, think about hiring moving staff or even a professional organizer to get all of your parent’s items in order before the move. Make sure your parent is part of the planning and knows exactly what is going on each step of the way.

Personalize the New Space

One of the best ways to make a new space more comfortable is to personalize it with familiar items. Before moving your parents to their new home, make sure they have their favorite pieces of furniture, art, and other items. 

Having these items in place can help your parents settle in and more easily get used to their new surroundings. You can also mix in new pieces with the old to embrace the idea of a fresh start.

Visit Often

No matter how ready your parents are to move to assisted living, the transition may still be a challenge at times. Having a family visit often can bring great comfort to your parents as they are settling in. 

Plan to visit often, especially in the days and weeks immediately following the move. Spend time with your parents in their new space to help them settle in. Think about setting up a long-term visiting schedule so that your parents always have time with you to look forward to.

Make the Move to Assisted Living a Positive Change

Following these simple steps can help ensure that your parent’s move to assisted living is a positive change. Accept that there may be a few bumps along the way, but ultimately, assisted living can bring a world of positive change to your parent’s life.

What to Expect from Assisted Living

For many families, assisted living is a new concept and they don’t know if it would meet their loved one’s needs. While services may depend on where you live, there are similarities regardless of your zip code. The first thing families should understand is assisted living is not skilled nursing care but rather intended for seniors who require a “helping hand” with daily care activities. Seniors need to understand assisted living does not take away their independence but rather enhances it.  

Assisted living communities offer an environment to safely age in place while receiving an array of senior care services, companionship and programs to improve quality of life. Residents enjoy not having to worry about home maintenance and yard work as well as preparing meals and driving. Assisted living communities are maintenance-free and provide meals and scheduled transportation to medical appointments or trips to area malls, restaurants and shops. 

Another big benefit to assisted living is the resident no longer feels like a burden to their family. Now when a son or daughter comes for a visit, it is just that. There isn’t a list of chores to do or the need to help with personal care or meal prep but time can be spent enjoying one another. 

When you are searching for assisted living, one of the services listed should include help with the ADLs (activities of daily). ADLs include things like medication management, bathing, dressing, grooming, transference (help getting in and out of bed to wheelchair, walker etc.)  As an incoming resident, your loved one’s level of care will be based on the ADLs to create a Personalized Care Plan.    

At MorningStar at Observatory Park, we provide a full range of senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and wellness programs to engage residents physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially. Visit our website for more information about our new assisted living and memory care community in South Denver. Excitement is growing as we will be opening for residents soon.

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Denver.

The Highest Risk Factor for a Fall is a Previous Fall

Many of us have heard about or know a senior who has had a fall that led to a serious injury. Each year statistics report one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury; and approximately 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. Annually, falls result in 32,000 senior deaths. 

The Harvard Medical School reports the highest risk factor for a fall is a previous fall. While a senior may have fallen or tripped and not thought much about it, as they only twisted an ankle or didn’t sustain a serious injury, the event may be a precursor to another fall. 

There are things seniors can do to protect themselves from a fall and it starts by being aware of any risk factors you may have including vision and hearing problems, which can make a fall more likely. Experts say stiff joints can hamper your gait and balance and make it easier to fall, as do certain medications for blood pressure and antihistamines. As a deficiency in vitamin D decreases a person’s bone mineral density and strength of the bones, it too can cause instability and raise the risk for a fall. Experts report even something as unrelated as a head cold or the flu can cause dizziness and increase your risk.  

To help boost core strength and improve balance, talk to your healthcare provider about the best type of exercises to do. Other steps to decrease the likelihood of a fall are to keep moving to loosen stiff joints and help build strength, wear sensible shoes and remove home hazards. Finally make sure your home has plenty of good lighting.  

MorningStar of San Jose is one of MorningStar’s newest senior living communities offering our unique brand of assisted living with all the services, amenities, and wellness programs needed to enhance quality of life for our residents. In addition, we provide holistic memory care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. We open in the spring of 2023 and are happy to help you reserve your select suite today. Please ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in San Jose.

A Holistic View of Health at MorningStar’s Community in South Denver

For outstanding assisted living, seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Observatory Park, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place.  By defining health and well-being holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit.   Together our Life Enrichment programs and Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care.  

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health.  These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.  

We are also proud that our assisted living residents’ benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).  In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand.  It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.   

Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director.  Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR trained staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7.  MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management. Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as other onsite therapeutic services.    

Please contact us or visit our website for more information. Our new senior living community includes 60 stylish suites for assisted living and another 23 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

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 senior living in Denver.

Discover Luxury Assisted Living in San Jose

If you have started the search for assisted living in San Jose, you will want to include MorningStar of San Jose. Our all-inclusive community offers an array of luxury amenities found at high-end resorts, while at the same time, all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Our beautiful community is now under construction and expected to open to residents in spring 2023.

MorningStar of San Jose will provide residents carefree retirement years by providing the care to help them maintain their independence, and the amenities and wellness programs to keep them engaged and looking forward to each new day. In addition, private suites are smartly-designed to maximize space and include a choice of floor plans and configurations to meet a variety of preferences and needs. All have high-end finishes and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.

Our all-day dining service means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule. A full salon makes it easy to get a new hairstyle, treat yourself to a pedicure or a manicure. Our fitness center along with specialized exercise classes will help you stay in shape; and MorningStar’s Life Enrichment room will be a busy place with something new always going on. The rooftop terrace (10,000+ square feet) will be a great place to relax with friends and enjoy the vibrant cityscapes and scenic mountain views.

MorningStar of San Jose’s goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other senior living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community will also provide memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

While we will not be open until the spring, we are staffed and ready to answer questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. Our website is loaded with information, and when you contact us, be sure to ask about our “Founders Club Specials.” 

MorningStar Senior Living takes pride in the reputation our communities have earned since 2003 for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in San Jose.

What to Look for During a Tour of a Senior Living Community

Whether you plan to tour a senior living community virtually or in-person, getting a good feel of the place is important. A Place for Mom has a list of questions that should help you get started.

On the top of their list are questions regarding the size of the place? How large is the community, how many residents do they have, and does it only offer independent living or do they have assisted living and memory care? Can the community accommodate your mobility issues? If you are doing an in-person tour, does it appear clean and do you notice any unpleasant odors? 

Safety should be your next priority. How secure is the building and is there safe, onsite parking? Are suites equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms? 

If you are searching for assisted living, you will want to ask about the various services available. Also look to see if the staff seems friendly and willing to interact and help residents. Ask about the ratio between residents and staff and what type of training do they receive? Is a licensed nurse on staff? Also does the community offer transportation services to and from doctor appointments? 

Also don’t forget to take a look at the residents as they will be your companions. Do they appear to be socially engaged, active and happy? Ask about the community’s amenities and the types of wellness activities provided for residents.  

At the MorningStar at Silver Lake senior living community, we encourage interested seniors and their families to schedule a tour to get to know us. We customized the process to meet your needs and show you what you want to see, not what we think you should see. A virtual tour on our website offers you a preliminary look; and if you like, we can do a video chat for a more personal look-about. However we think if we are a serious contender for your new home we recommend an in-person visit. This gives you the opportunity to see the things you are most interested in and allow you to get a real feel of our community life. 

Visit our website and browse through our extensive information regarding the area’s finest independent living and assisted living Everett, WA offers. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/tips-for-community-tours

Signs of Dementia may be Detectable Years before Most Diagnoses

An interesting study from the University of Cambridge raises the possibility of signs that may lead to dementia up to nine years before a diagnosis. Researchers say the reason this is important is it provides time to suggest intervention treatments as well as recommend suitable candidates for clinical trials. Currently by the time most individuals are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is generally too late to alter the course of the disease and to determine if clinical trials of new treatment are effective. 

The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association published the results of the study, which was funded by the Medical Research Council with support from the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre. One of the study authors, Nol Swaddiwudhipong, explained, “When we looked back at patients’ histories, it became clear that they were showing some cognitive impairment several years before their symptoms became obvious enough to prompt a diagnosis. The impairments were often subtle, but across a number of aspects of cognition.”

Data for the study was obtained from the UK Biobank where researchers looked for signs of early symptoms in participants such as a history of falls, health and disease diagnoses, and weight gain and losses. They also looked at memory loss, problem solving, reaction time, the ability to remember a list of numbers and grip strength. Researchers say while none of these problems alone are a sign of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, if you notice concerning signs of decline in these types of abilities, it is important to see your healthcare provider. 

San Jose’s new high-end residential housing, MorningStar of San Jose assisted living and memory care community is designed around the various needs of seniors. From a choice of smartly-designed floor plans to luxury amenities and relaxing, inviting common areas, residents can truly enjoy their retirement years. Ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023 and look forward to welcoming you to our MorningStar family.

Source: theguardian.com/society/2022/oct/13/signs-of-dementia-may-be-detectable-nine-years-before-diagnosis-study?CMP=oth_b-aplnews_d-1

Tips to Help Prevent Food Poisoning

Unfortunately most of us will suffer from an attack of food poisoning at least once in our life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately one in six Americans will come down with food poisoning this year alone. While uncomfortable, most cases are mild but experts say there are some strains or infections that can be deadly. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain and cramps, nausea, vomiting, frequent diarrhea and fever. 

Food poisoning is caused by bacterial or viral contamination of food and experts say the majority of food poisoning cases could have been prevented. Prevention includes following a few key safety rules in how we buy, store and eat food.      

When grocery shopping, it is recommended you bag items such as meat, poultry and fish together. Produce should be bagged separately. If you are out running errands, make the grocery store your last stop, and if it is hot outside, bring along a cooler bag to keep refrigerated and frozen foods as cold as possible.  

Storage tips include not washing produce until you are ready to use it as it will stay fresher. Before you wash produce, wash your hands with soap and water. Clean produce by running cool water over it for up to 10 seconds. Some food like cucumbers and potatoes should be scrubbed with a brush and then rinsed in cool water. Other foods with hard peels should be scrubbed before the cut opens. 

Meat should not be washed but cooked to the proper temperature.Check with your cookbook or the Internet and use a thermometer to ensure it is cooked through. You should store meats away from vegetables and fruits even in the refrigerator. 

Other tips to help prevent food poisoning is to wash your hands before preparing food, clean your prep surfaces, and use a separate cutting board for meats that can be sanitized in the dishwasher. Also the general rule is to refrigerate leftovers two hours after you take them out of the refrigerator. Throw away food left out for more than four hours.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake offers the area’s finest independent living and assisted living in Everett, WA. Our community is minutes from the world-renowned Providence Regional Medical Center, close to shopping, banks, and restaurants. Over the last few years we have done a community-wide renovation, which is now complete, and invite you to set up a tour to take a look to see what you think. Visit our website for contact information, and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/food-safety-101?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&h_eid=33ff19753588e9ff88a335241c3b8e21caedc878c09582df7ea2d1c7cb6a7d5b&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Oct%2009%2007:47:45%20EDT%202022&utm_term=Your%20Health

Do You Need to be Readmitted to the Hospital? Know the Signs

According to statistics, the percent of patients readmitted to the hospital in the US within 30 days after being discharged was 14 percent in 2015. Common causes of readmission include pneumonia, heart failure/cardiovascular disease, and COPD/pulmonary disease. 

The warning signs it is time to go back to the hospital are difficulty breathing, chest pains, spiking fever, extreme nausea or vomiting, confusion or disorientation, worsening fatigue or weakness, or severe pain that cannot be relieved. For surgical patients, you should be told what constitutes a normal recovery and the complications to watch out for that may require a return to the hospital. Dr. Catherine MacLean, chief value medical officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, says patients should have a pretty low threshold as to when it is time to reach out to healthcare providers regarding problems. 

At discharge, patients are often given new prescriptions to fill, along with other instructions such as hydration, physical therapy and diet recommendations; and patients must be vigilant following these orders. If a person doesn’t respond to these treatments or medications as hoped, they may need to be readmitted to the hospital. 

It should not be surprising that the elderly are among the group more often readmitted to the hospital. Miscommunication regarding discharge orders is another common reason. One example is the person goes into the hospital taking certain medications and goes home with new prescriptions. Problems can occur if the patient takes both the old medications and the new ones when the doctor’s intention was to only take the new meds. This is why it is important to communicate with your team before your discharge and be clear on your care.  

The new MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living and memory care community is designed to allow residents to live life as independently as possible. We offer 60 assisted living suites and 23 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. While new to the DU neighborhood, MorningStar has dozens of retirement communities around the Western US including several around Denver. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information and to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We will open to residents in winter 2022.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/signs-you-should-be-readmitted-to-the-hospital

Common Causes of Fall Allergies

Anyone who suffers from seasonal allergies knows what a nuisance they can be, and just like spring allergy triggers, fall has its own challenges. Symptoms typically include itchy eyes, a runny nose, or a scratchy throat; and throughout most of the country, people experience seasonal allergies. 

One of the major causes of fall allergies is ragweed pollen, also known as hay fever. It is found in every state, including being introduced to Hawaii, except Alaska. While common ragweeds only live for one season, each plant can produce up to one billion pollen grains. Experts say ragweed allergy season can start in some northern states as early as late July, and while it typically peaks in mid-to-late September, it can last into late November in more moderate climates. The pollen is more prevalent in the morning so if you are allergic, plan outdoor activities in the mid-afternoon to early evening. 

Mold is another common allergy problem during fall. Mold spores can be released when humidity is high as well as when it is dry and windy. Experts say to kill mold spores, use cleaning products designed for that purpose. Likely places to grow mold include around the base of your house, in the bathroom or basement. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to dampness inside your house. 

If you are susceptible to fall allergies, avoid mowing the lawn or raking up dead leaves and plants in the garden as it can stir up mold spores or pollen. Doctors recommend seeing your healthcare provider if symptoms become unmanageable especially if over-the-counter remedies such as antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays fail to bring relief.  Other tips to reduce pollens and mold spores include wearing a KN-95 face mask outside during high allergy alerts, using a HEPA filter air purifier and vacuuming frequently with a HEPA filter.  

At the new MorningStar of San Jose, we are providing residents a high-end residential environment, which includes the use of green materials. Along with an array of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities; assisted living residents will receive a level of senior care that focuses not only on their physical needs but emotional, spiritual, and social needs. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic memory care. Contact us to learn more about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023. 

Source: 

healthgrades.com/right-care/allergies/6-worst-fall-allergy-triggers-and-how-to-avoid-them

Maintain and Enhance Your Memory with Healthy Habits

Studies suggest while some memory decline is inevitable with aging, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain and enhance memory function as well as our overall brain health. The US News & World Report says one of the things we can do is to routinely be physically active as studies show it provides a lower risk of mental decline and Alzheimer's disease. 

They explain physical activity optimizes blood flow to the entire body including the brain and helps keep our memories sharp. However, the type of physical exercise is important and should include a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio such as power walking, running, biking or swimming. (Before beginning any new exercise, experts say check with your healthcare provider.)   

If you worry about forgetting things, Dr. Vernon Williams, a sports neurologist and founding director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, says for most of us it is normal. He states all of us forget things like where we put our keys or when our doctor appointment is, which is typically not a reason for concern. Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are different and cause more consistent memory problems that have a debilitating effect on a person's quality of life.

Along with physical exercise, other strategies to improve and protect memory include challenging our brain by learning new things, sleeping well and eating a healthy diet. Dr. Williams says adults need at least seven to nine hours of sleep a night as it “allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of dementia.”

MorningStar at Silver Lake has spacious independent and assisted living apartments in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. Our luxury amenities ensure carefree retirement years with plenty of ways to exercise both the body and the brain.  Amenities include a computer lounge, fitness center, life enrichment room, resident garden beds, strolling paths, wellness programs and activities. We are committed to provide the best senior housing Everett, WA offers and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community.  

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Everett, WA has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/memory-decline-isnt-inevitable

The Many Ways Socializing Improves Seniors’ Health

A UCSF Division of Geriatrics study found 43 percent of seniors report regularly experiencing loneliness. Mayo clinic psychologist, Dr. Craig Sawchuk, Ph.D., explains why this can be a problem. He says as “social animals by nature; we tend to function better when we’re in a community setting and being around others.” 

Several studies report a link between social isolation and an increased risk of disease including one from the Academy of Science, which found loneliness can lead to higher rates of poor physical and mental health. Health concerns for isolated adults include hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease. 

It becomes harder for seniors who live alone to socialize as they get into their upper 70s or 80s as many stop driving and/or suffer from chronic health problems affecting their mobility. Other contributing issues to loneliness in the elderly may include the death of a spouse or close family members and friends. 

To emphasize how important socialization is for older adults, the American Public Health Association explains the most effective way for seniors to improve their health is to increase socialization. They report “socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise.”

For built-in companionship, senior care services, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities, we recommend taking a look at San Jose’s newest senior living community, MorningStar of San Jose. Our community offers 69 assisted living suites in various floor plans as well as holistic memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. 

While we are a brand new community, we are not new to senior living as our parent company; MorningStar Senior Living has dozens of communities across the Western US. Please contact us to learn more about availability at the finest assisted living and memory care San Jose offers and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023 and look forward to welcoming you to our loving MorningStar family.

Source: seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/the-mental-health-benefits-of-socializing-for-seniors/#:~:text=Fortunately%2C%20socialization%20has%20been%20shown,with%20healthy%20behaviors%2C%20including%20exercise.

MorningStar’s New Observatory Park Keeps Seniors Social with Resort Style Amenitie

A major fear with seniors that are transitioning to senior living, or a retirement community, is the worry that they won’t make friends or fit in in a senior living community. Adjusting to this new way of life can be difficult and it’s hard to watch our loved one’s experience this stress. However, many seniors find that they enjoy a senior living community and quickly become comfortable with the new routine and neighbors. It’s especially helpful if the retirement community offers activities and amenities that encourage its residents to venture outside of their suites and socialize with the community and their new home. From aiding with daily chores to helping seniors meet new friends and be more active, MorningStar’s new Assisted Living and Retirement Community opens many new doors to benefit seniors living in Denver.

MorningStar’s new Observatory Park retirement community in Denver offers resort style amenities and activities to keep seniors healthy, active, and social. This new location, set to open in late 2022, offers the standard in niceties that MorningStar senior living communities include, such as all-day, restaurant-style dining, salon, fitness center, club rooms, and 24-hour care staff. However, MorningStar Observatory Park senior living and assisted living offers even more unique and modern luxuries such as a pizza oven, secure sky terraces, a bocce ball court, a rooftop green, massage therapy, and so much more.

Located in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver just blocks away from Observatory Park, the site of the Chamberlin Observatory and the University of Denver’s beautiful campus. Proximity to two major hospitals in the area. 1.7 miles from Porter Adventist Hospital and 2.9 miles from Swedish Medical Center. The area is home to mature trees, lovely gardens, eclectic eateries, local coffee shops and a brewery. Wide streets and grassy lawns make for a lovely walk and include the scenic East Harvard Gulch Trail. Our own community offers groomed grounds, enclosed courtyard with BBQ grill, and a rooftop terrace and bocce ball court with striking city and mountain views.

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Observatory Park. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission which discusses our exceptional senior living in South Denver that seniors can rely on. 

MorningStar retirement communities provide residents with freedom and choices, resort-style amenities, maintenance-free living and best-in-class dining and hospitality. We are a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love, made possible through a dedicated team. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement communities Denver, Co has to offer.

Moving Forward After a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, it is extremely difficult not only for the individual but the entire family. As it generally comes after the person as well as their family and friends have noticed a marked change in the individual, it is tough to hear but not always a huge surprise. Now the question becomes “what next?”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers families guidance with a list of helpful informative and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Check if they have local chapters where you can get in-person support, meet others in your same situation, and get involved in fundraising activities. You can additionally reach out to local community centers and hospitals to find out if they have Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

NIA reminds families to keep up with regular medical checkups as they are important for a person with Alzheimer’s and should include their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Also ask your medical team if there is a memory disorder clinic nearby. 

Another suggestion is to plan ahead both financially and for long-term care while the person can still have some valuable input. Finally, experts say to make sure you get the proper help to ensure the person’s wellbeing and safety. 

MorningStar Senior Living has 40+ communities operating or under construction throughout the Western U.S. including MorningStar of San Jose which is scheduled to open in June 2023. At MorningStar, we know something about the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood will be staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provide a safe, loving home for seniors suffering from dementia.  If you are looking for trusted assisted living or memory care in San Jose, please visit our website for more information.

At MorningStar of San Jose, our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, inviting atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis

MorningStar’s Independent Living in Everett, WA

While there may be a number of senior communities in the Everett, WA area, we would like to introduce you to one of the best.  MorningStar at Silver Lake offers stylish suites for independent living for those who love the idea of carefree retirement years and plenty of time for life’s adventures.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake is in the beautiful Puget Sound region surrounded by water, forests, and mountains, 25 miles north of Seattle, minutes from Providence Regional Medical Center, and close to shopping, restaurants and other services. Local attractions include picturesque Silver Lake, Everett Naval Station at Puget Sound, Boeing Future of Flight Aviation Center and Jetty Island. 

For the most active seniors, our spacious suites offer spacious floor plans that range from studio to one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and we are pet friendly.   Each apartment has a full kitchen with microwave, handicapped-accessible bathroom, an emergency call system, and private heating and cooling.  In addition, most suites have walk-in closets and a washer and dryer.

Other services and amenities we provide to our residents include a fitness center, theatre/chapel, beautifully prepared meals served restaurant-style, enrichment activities, and more. Residents also enjoy community wide Wi-Fi, billiards & game room, bistro, raised garden beds and strolling paths. To make sure you have the time to do what you want to do, we provide weekly housekeeping. 

Unlike many other senior communities in the area, MorningStar at Silver Lake also offers assisted living so if your needs change, we are here to help.  While you will find our website showcases pictures of our gorgeous community, it doesn’t show the loving atmosphere that permeates throughout our home.   We attribute this to our exceptional care team that feels honored to serve seniors and has helped to make our community one of the finest for independent and assisted living Everette has to offer.

MorningStar at Silver Lake provides the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true home for residents.  Visit our website to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Everette, WA offers.

Lose Weight with Healthier, Lower-Calorie Substitutes

Experts say it isn’t just our imagination that losing weight gets harder the older we become but is most likely due to having less muscle mass, which burns more calories than fat. To help, they offer easy tips on how to painlessly replace calorie-laden foods with healthier, lower-calorie substitutes. In addition to the fact that nutrient-rich foods appear to help individuals be successful in their quest to lose weight, meals do not necessarily have to be smaller than your average intake. 

Dietitians suggest an easy food swap is to drink water flavored with lemon slices or sparkling water rather than sugary sodas. One study found by replacing refined grains with whole grains it “improved blood cholesterol levels and decreased percent of body fat in postmenopausal women.” Replacing sugary granola with heart-healthy oatmeal can also help control your weight. Not only is oatmeal a good source of soluble fiber known to reduce cholesterol but it contains magnesium and potassium known to promote healthy blood pressure. Also dietitians suggest trying sprouted grain breads, which many find tastier and healthier than even whole-grain breads.

Other ways to get healthier and lose weight is to include more plant-based foods into your diet. Make a pledge to have a couple of meatless dinners each week and get your protein from bean burgers, lentils, and quinoa instead of hamburgers and steaks. To get more veggies into your diet, top your bean burger with spinach or lettuce, tomato slices and mushrooms instead of cheese. Rather than pasta, use squash or zucchini noodles.

At MorningStar of Silver Lake senior community, we offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and security.  Residents enjoy built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living, including healthy and delicious meals created by our Executive Chef.  Just some of the amenities include a fitness center, bistro, billiards & game room, and theater/chapel.  For trusted independent or assisted living Everette, WA seniors can count on, contact us or visit our website for more information.

We proudly provide the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living, Everett WA’s MorningStar at Silver Lake may be your answer.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/slideshows/11-healthy-food-swaps-to-lose-weight?slide=2

Tips for Safely taking Prescription Drugs

Every year seniors are hospitalized due to prescribed medications. Statistics show drug-related problems are common in older adults and include drug ineffectiveness, adverse drug effects, over-dosage, under-dosage, inappropriate treatment, inadequate monitoring, nonadherence, and drug interactions. It is important to remember even though medication is prescribed by your healthcare provider, problems can occur.  

Experts say you must follow directions and take medications as prescribed including on time, in the right dosage, with or without food, and never grinding it into a powder (unless directed by the doctor). They recommend carrying an updated list of all medications and sharing it with your doctors. Additionally, be aware of common interactions between prescribed drugs and over-the-counter medications and alcoholic drinks. 

Before your doctor prescribes a new medication, ask them why you are taking it, for how long and what are the potential side effects. It is important to know what to look for and to discuss the benefits versus any negative or dangerous consequences. You will want to know things like will a drug make you drowsy so you know not to drive under its influence.  

Another thing to safeguard your health is to review your medications with your doctor on a regular basis asking questions such as: do you still need to take it, is the dosage correct, and is there a non-drug alternative? Despite your faith in your medical team, it is not a bad idea to check your medications against the American Geriatric Society’s “2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults.” The online site lists medications that may be inappropriate or dangerous for seniors.   

MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living and memory care community enables residents to live life as independently as possible. We offer 60 assisted living suites from studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans and 23 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. If the MorningStar name sounds familiar, we have over 40 retirement communities around the Western US including several in and around Denver. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information and to ask about our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2022.

Source: 

healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-ten-medications-older-adults-should-avoid-or-use-caution

Loneliness is Linked to Poor Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), statistics show seniors who report feelings of loneliness are at higher risk for several diseases including dementia and are more likely to experience premature death. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) says “one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.” Social isolation is a lack of social connections and a result of a person living alone, having a spouse and/or other supportive friends or relatives die, or suffering from chronic illness. Other related problems include a lack of transportation, mobility impairment and untreated hearing loss, which all limit the senior’s opportunity to engage with others. 

AARP Research surveyed adults 45 and older regarding their feelings of loneliness. Of those respondents who rated their health as excellent, only 25 percent said they were lonely. Among participants who said their health was poor, 55 percent reported feeling lonely. The CDC also says studies find social isolation or loneliness is linked to a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke as well as a 50% percent increased risk of dementia.

If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Everett WA’s MorningStar at Silver Lake may be your answer. We provide everything seniors need to safely and comfortably age in place. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live full productive lives. Our Life Enrichment team will present creative ways to stay active and comes with the benefit of not just camaraderie and fun, but some accountability (for you will be truly missed if you don’t show up).

For the most active seniors, our independent living suites offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with predictable budgeting and built-in companionship.  If you are a senior who needs help with the ADLs (the activities of daily living), we offer assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans.  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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Everett, WA offers.

Source: cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html