Learn More About Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people aged 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems, or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they are often not aware of their memory loss. 

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s disease, normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.” 

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies. 

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. 

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain the signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  

At MorningStar at West Valley, we specialize in providing compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 42 suites offer a choice of studio and companion configurations along with all the amenities and services required for the finest care.  We want you to know we are here to help if your loved one is suffering from memory loss.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s holistic dementia care in San Jose.    

MorningStar at West Valley brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, 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 visit our website for more information about exceptional dementia care in San Jose.

Sources:  health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/evaluating-mci-mild-cognitive-impairment

alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/related_conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment

Tips to Help Manage MCI

MCI (mild cognitive impairment) can be a precursor to dementia but does not always progress to dementia. Medical professionals report 10% to 40% of MCI cases go on to become dementia, and a good percentage of those become Alzheimer’s disease. On the positive side, research shows as many as 30-40% of people with MCI get better. As with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, there are no drugs to treat MCI but doctors say there are steps we can take to mitigate or minimize its effects. 

MCI is just as its name suggests. The impairment is mild and does not affect a person’s ability to care for themselves or takes away their independence. Steps a person should take to protect their cognitive health include quitting smoking and moderating or eliminating alcohol consumption. If you do have hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol levels or diabetes, it is important to treat these conditions and manage them through medications, diet and healthy lifestyle habits. 

Other things you can do to thwart, delay or minimize the effects of MCI are to maintain a healthy weight and exercise, which is good for our brains as well as our bodies. Avoid junk food, highly processed foods and foods high in sodium; and reduce the amount of red meat in your diet. Isolation has also been linked to a higher risk for dementia, so it is important to stay social.   

The new memory care facility, MorningStar at West Valley, specializes in caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss. Along with offering personalized dementia care, we provide purposeful activities to nurture and connect with the person. Opening this winter, we are located in West San Jose in Santa Clara County and offer easy access to the I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway. Please contact us to ask about our Founders Club Specials for early depositors (deadline 11/15/22), which includes $1,500 toward moving expenses, $1,000 off our community fee, first choice of preferred suites and more.  

MorningStar Memory Care Facility is Designed to Feel like Home

Keeping a comfortable and inviting atmosphere is important in memory care, especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Moving to a dementia care facility can be overwhelming for residents when they transition from their home to a new space. Keeping their new environment clean, safe, and easy to navigate helps to ease the stress of our loved ones and reassures our minds when they show content with their new space and neighbors. 

Dementia care, also called memory care, is different from other senior living communities. While many memory care facilities include similar aspects to senior and retirement communities, MorningStar West Valley features 24-hour care, specialized and empathetically trained staff, memory-enhancing therapies, easy to navigate floor plans, and a secure environment. Our memory care facility in West San Jose is equipped to care for a person from the onset of dementia to more advanced stages.

A benefit of memory care homes is the controlled and easily maneuverable environment which helps reduce confusion and disorientation for residents with proper lighting, clearly marked hallways, and décor to encourage calmness and familiarity. Also, outdoor exploration is encouraged and permitted with safety precautions such as a secured sky terrace that allows residents to get fresh air and enjoy the scenery. When not in use, doors to and from the facility remain locked. 

Suites for memory care are available in a choice of studio and companion configurations from 318 to 492 sq ft on two levels. Suites include emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. While a secure building, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding and safe and inviting common areas that encourage socialization and enrichment through holistic activities that help residents to feel safe and independent. 

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar’s memory care facility. 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 West San Jose that seniors can rely on. 

MorningStar West Valley proudly provides the very best in dementia care and memory care with our unique mission statement of “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. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes West San Jose, California has to offer.

The Changing Needs of Those with Dementia

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, a person’s needs change and it is important to recognize and address those changes with appropriate care. Along with meeting basic needs, experts say care providers should treat the whole person by creating an environment that allows them to feel independent and safe. The Alzheimer’s Association says determining the best care options can be tough and offers some advice on how to ensure the person has the services, programs, and caregivers in place for the best possible quality of life. 

The first step to any decision regarding care is to honestly evaluate your loved one’s needs. Also, to whatever degree possible, it is recommended you include them in any decisions. Another thing to remember is during the early stages of the disease the person may be able to live independently but in the middle stages, 24-hour supervision is needed. Additionally, around-the-clock care is much more demanding in the later and end stages.    

Primary points to consider include safety especially in terms of unsupervised cooking, or if the person has a tenacity to wander or needs help with medications. Does the person have medical conditions that need monitoring such as diabetes or a mobility issue? Other problems that may demand more professional care include a person becoming aggressive or needing help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). Finally, consider if the person would benefit from more social interactions and activities. 

If a parent, spouse or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the MorningStar at North Ridge team is here to help. As one of the area’s dementia care specialists, MorningStar at North Ridge was designed to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to treat residents with the respect and dignity they deserve.    For trusted memory care Albuquerque families can count on, visit our website or contact us for more information. 

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, 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 memory care in Albuquerque.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/care-options/choosing-care-providers

Studies Show a Healthy Diet May Help Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease. 

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite early studies showing MIND lowered the “risk of Alzheimer's by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely.” In 2018, the MIND diet recommendation was expanded to include older adults who have suffered a stroke. 

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy. 

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia. 

MorningStar at North Ridge provides specialized memory care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 38 suites include studio and one-bedroom floor plans; and our home is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Each resident receives an individualized service plan to provide the care, programs, and activities they need as well as specially prepared, nutritious meals. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, 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 visit our website for more information about exceptional dementia care in Albuquerque.

Link between Gum Disease & 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. 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 take a look at MorningStar at West Valley, a community with alzheimers homes committed to caring for individuals with memory impairment diseases. Our holistic dementia care is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love. MorningStar’s memory care facility opens to residents in the last quarter of 2022, and we invite you to visit our website today to reserve a select suite for your loved one. Additionally, ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”  

Source: 

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

MorningStar’s Holistic Memory Care in Albuquerque

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar at North Ridge is ready to help. We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease brings with it and wish to share the burden. Our comprehensive memory 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.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed. 

The North Ridge community is designed from the ground up to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities connect with and nurture the individual, whatever the level of memory loss may be. 

Another thing that makes MorningStar at North Ridge a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Our distinct mission statement reads to: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and to Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar Senior Living’s 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 exceptional memory care in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at North Ridge. 

Depression may be Confused with Dementia

Experts report as people age, dementia and depression are both common conditions and may be confused with one another. Additionally one may lead to the other as depression is linked to a higher risk for dementia, and dementia can cause depression. 

The Harvard Medical School explains depression in the elderly can lead to a “phenomenon called pseudodementia—an apparent intellectual decline that stems from a lack of energy or effort.” They say individuals with this problem are often forgetful, move slowly, exhibit low motivation and signs of slowing mental prowess. If a loved one experiences these types of symptoms, their doctor may treat it with the same medications used to treat depression. As the person’s mood improves, they typically begin to function at their previous level. 

Professionals share a few ways depression and dementia differs to help families and healthcare providers determine what is going on. One important difference is decline in mental functioning is typically faster in depression than with a person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease causes confusion and disorientation as well as problems with short-term memory. Depression causes problems with concentration. 

People suffering from depression do not have more than the usual difficulties with writing, speaking and motor skills, and are more aware of any memory problems they are experiencing. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease seem indifferent to those types of changes. However, to determine the cause of the problem, it is important to make an appointment with the person’s healthcare provider.  

If it does turn out to be Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar at West Valley is ready to help. Our new San Jose community is entirely devoted to providing compassionate, comprehensive dementia care services. While new to the San Jose area, MorningStar has communities across the Western US and has proudly earned a reputation for “casting a new light” on senior living. Please contact us to reserve a select suite; we expect to open to residents in the fourth quarter of 2022. 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/understanding-depression?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=HB20220526-Depression&utm_id=3697283&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=3697283

Supporting and Raising Awareness for Alzheimer’s Research

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia-related disease; and more than 6 million Americans are living with the disease. In 2022, Alzheimer's disease will cost the United States $321 billion and the cost is projected to rise to nearly $1 trillion by 2050.

If you live around the San Jose area and have a family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we invite you to take a look at the MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. Although new to the community, MorningStar has several dozen senior living communities across the Western US including MorningStar of Pasadena and MorningStar Casa Sandoval as well as the under-construction MorningStar of San Jose. 

We love the towns and cities where MorningStar communities are located, and display our civic pride and honor God through servant-leadership by volunteering in local nonprofits. As our remarkable residents remind us that life’s deepest satisfaction is found when we give ourselves away in service to others, we rally behind organizations that serve seniors such as the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Each year, MorningStar communities host uplifting celebrations for “The Longest Day” on summer solstice, which raises awareness and funds in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. In addition staff members, residents and families play a role in another Alzheimer’s Association’s event, “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” that takes place every fall. These are the world's largest fundraising events for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Visit their website for details; it’s not too early to get active and support the upcoming longest day celebration or join a walk, start one in your area or donate to a team.

MorningStar at West Valley’s holistic approach to memory care starts with creating a personalized service plan to address needs and provide a gentle flow of daily activities to calm or stimulate. Visit our website for more information and to talk to our team about our all-inclusive memory care facility. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2022 and encourage you to reserve a select suite today. Also be sure to inquiry about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Staying Engaged in Life is Important for those Suffering from Dementia

To feel more connected to a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it helps to spend time together in meaningful or fun activities. The Alzheimer’s Association has put together a list of many such activities; and remind families to keep in mind the things the person used to like to do or was interested in. Also take into account their mood that day. 

The outdoors can be a great place to spend quality time. Getting out in nature is calming and an easy walk or hike geared toward the person’s abilities can be fun for them and the grandkids. Watering plants, planting flowers and feeding the birds are other soothing activities. If the person seems fidgety, try having them rake leaves or sweep the patio. If they enjoy dogs, sit on a bench outside a dog park and watch them play; or find a quiet bench at the beach and people watch or enjoy the scenery. 

Quiet activities inside might include sitting together looking through a family photo album or scrapbook. Listening to music the person enjoys while drinking a cup of herbal tea or hot chocolate is another good activity. Also reading a favorite book aloud or watching a beloved movie together is a fun way to spend an afternoon.  

Other suggestions for quality time together are to give the person a neck rub, hand massage or pedicure. If they used to love to bake, make a batch of cookies or bread together; or have them help you fold laundry or set the table for dinner. These types of activities do not have to be done well but provide the person with a sense of purpose. The Alzheimer’s Association says if an activity doesn’t seem to be working, try something else.

At MorningStar at West Valley, we specialized in caring for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss. Along with offering individualized dementia care, we also provide purposeful activities that engage the person physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. Our new community is due to open in the third quarter of 2022 and is located in West San Jose in Santa Clara County, offering easy access to the I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway. Visit our website to inquire about availability, pricing and to reserve a select suite.  

Source: alz.org/help-support/resources/kids-teens/50-activities

What to Look for During a Tour of a Memory Care Facility

The overall environment of a memory care community is important to your loved one’s well being and should be able to address their unique needs and personality. While in-person tours used to be the norm, during the pandemic, communities went to virtual tours and many still offer those along with regular onsite visits. 

A Place for Mom offers several tips on what to look for when you tour a dementia care facility. To start with, does the community address your loved one’s mobility issues? Relying on your senses, does the home appear clean without lingering bad odors? During a virtual or in-person tour, ask to see a room like the one your family member will occupy. Are you happy with the amount of windows, lighting and decor?

Your next concern should be about security and safety. Does the home have secure doors and rooms equipped with emergency alert systems, handicap-accessible bathrooms and color-coded hallways to make navigation easy? Is there adequate staffing during the day as well as nighttime, and what medical services are available? 

Ask questions regarding the training staff receive particularly in regards to dementia care. If possible, can you and your loved one join the community for a meal? Not only does that give you the chance to taste the food but to interact with other residents. Does the home have a weekly activities’ calendar, and can you both attend one of the activities or classes? Lastly, A Place for Mom recommends trusting your instincts as you know your loved one the best.   

MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley invites you to visit our website to learn more about our holistic memory care. As a resident, your loved one will receive 24/7 care from compassionate, trained care managers, daily health monitoring, access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers. They will also engage in daily, meaningful activities. Once you decide to entrust MorningStar with the care of your loved one, we encourage you to reserve a select suite. We open to residents in the third quarter of 2022.

Improve Your Balance to Maintain Mobility & Safeguard Your Independence

The Harvard Medical School states the older we get, our body’s physical systems that maintain balance aren’t as responsive as they were when we were younger. They explain, “Maintaining balance is actually a complex task for your body, requiring coordinated action from not only your muscles, but also your eyes, ears, tendons, bones, and brain.”

Therefore balance isn’t only about physical fitness as various common health problems in older adults can affect it as well. These include inner ear disorders, decreased sensation in the feet, and postural hypotension (low blood pressure when standing), which can all increase a person’s risk for a fall. 

Good balance is important as it helps us to maintain our mobility and safeguard our independence. However doctors say doing strength training exercises a couple of times a week and taking daily walks may not be enough. For the best results, they recommend adding balance exercises into your weekly routine including both static balance exercises (done while standing still) and dynamic balance exercises (done while moving). 

The Internet has examples of both static and dynamic exercises to incorporate into your routine. Most are easy-to-do but be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercises and use a sturdy chair or a countertop to steady yourself if needed.  

Every aspect of the new MorningStar at West Valley is designed to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Located in West San Jose just south of the city of Santa Clara, we offer easy access to I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway and are close to both the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Our compassionate home offers 42 suites spread out over two stories with a choice of studio or companion floor plans ranging in size from 318 to 492 square feet. 

Visit our website for information regarding our approach to dementia care and our wide range of services and amenities. We look forward to answering your questions and to helping you reserve a select suite.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/finding-balance-3-simple-exercises-to-steady-your-steps-202110132612?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BF20220314-Mobility&utm_id=3530093&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=3530093

Falls are a Common Cause of Serious Injury Especially in those with Alzheimer’s

The WebMD website warns falls are a leading cause of disability, premature nursing home placement, and death among older adults. They also say individuals suffering from Alzheimer's disease experience more than double the rate of falls as people without the disorder. Experts say this is mostly likely due to problems with balance and gait disorders as well as visual and spatial perception. One study done a few years ago in France reports falls may even be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.  

The study consisted of a group of older adults who appeared physically and cognitively healthy. Researchers were surprised to discover two-thirds of those with large deposits of Alzheimer's-associated plaque in their brains suffered falls, while only one-third of those with little or no plaque experienced falls. Susan Stark, PhD, of Washington University in St. Louis says this was the first study to clearly “identify a risk of increased falls related to a diagnosis of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease.” Preclinical Alzheimer’s disease is the term used to describe people with large deposits of Alzheimer's-associated plaque in their brains, despite appearing cognitively normal.

Falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk. These include exercising, getting routine eye exams, and talking to your doctors about medication side effects, surgical procedures and other things that can increase your risk for a fall. 

MorningStar of North Ridge specializes in providing individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community has 38 suites with studio and one-bedroom floor plans and is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We encourage you to get the best Alzheimer’s care for your loved one by visiting our website to learn more about our compassionate home, our experienced team and our company’s philosophy.

Source:  webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20110718/falls-an-early-clue-to-alzheimersagingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm