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Be Your Healthiest as We Approach Fall and Winter

September 23, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

As the seasons change and colder weather is just around the corner, it is a good idea to get our healthiest as we enter into the cold and flu season. Think of the new season as a time to make a fresh start on healthy habits that improve your physical and mental well-being. 

Lifestyle changes to boost health should include engaging in physical activity and exercising as well as incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet, getting enough sleep and managing stress. Medical experts add recharging our health should also include getting a flu shot and any other vaccines needed. 

For seniors, walking has many benefits and is a good way to increase your activity level; and fall is a great time to get outside and enjoy milder temperatures and the colorful trees. The Harvard Medical School reports studies show walking can counteract the effects of weight-promoting genes as well as help curb our sweet tooth. An American Cancer Society study found women who walked seven or more hours a week had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week. Other studies show walking can help seniors reduce joint pain from arthritis and boost our immune system, which is especially important in the upcoming cold and flu season. 

Doctors say making good nutritional choices as often as we can and watching the amount of food we eat is an easy way to improve our health. Take advantage of the many healthy food options plentiful in fall such as squashes, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, kale and pears. 

Our overall health is adversely impacted by the lack of sleep and the average person needs six to eight hours a day. Since stress interferes with our happiness and well-being, experts suggest managing it through mindful exercises like yoga, tai chi, and meditation and deep breathing. Another thing seniors can do to improve their health is to get social as isolation can lead to a higher risk for health conditions such as dementia and heart disease. Lastly experts say practicing gratefulness and being kind to ourselves increases happiness.       

MorningStar at Observatory Park is a new assisted living and memory care community in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver. We open to residents in late 2022 and encourage you to reserve your select suite at one of finest retirement communities in Denver. Please ask about our exclusive savings for early depositors.

September 23, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, memory care, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

Take it Easy When Starting an Exercise Routine

September 21, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

Doctors caution everyone, especially seniors, to go slow when starting or getting back into an exercise routine; and before you begin, to consult with your healthcare provider. After all you want to get back into shape, and causing injury or harm to yourself, is certain to delay or prevent this progress. 

Moreover, doctors reiterate that while individuals extremely out-of-shape will benefit the most from regular exercise, they are also more at risk for sudden heart problems resulting from such a workout. Dr. Martha Gulati, editor-in-chief of CardioSmart, the American College of Cardiology's patient education initiative, says it is important to "pace yourself, don't do too much too soon and make sure you give your body time to rest between workouts." 

One way to exercise safely is to pay attention to your heart rate. If you notice it is not coming down as your intensity decreases while resting or is beating irregularly, you need to stop. Dr. Gulati warns chest pains are never normal nor is nausea, vomiting or extreme sweating and if you experience symptoms, call 911. In addition, neither dizziness nor extreme shortness of breath is normal but rather a signal to stop and consult with your doctor. Cramps may be a sign of dehydration or low potassium levels and should not be ignored. Care should also be taken in individuals with atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat, and seek emergency medical attention if such an event occurs. 

For exceptional independent or assisted living, Everett, WA seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place. Designed to meet our residents’ every need, we have a range of wellness programs and activities to engage and support physical, intellectual, social and spiritual connections.  Please visit our website for more information.  While you are there, use our Virtual Assistant to inquire about availability and pricing or to request a tour to see firsthand our beautiful retirement communities.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other independent and assisted living Everett offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding senior housing. 

Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/slideshows/signs-you-should-stop-exercising-immediately

September 21, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, retirement communities, senior housing
Retirement Communities

Need Trusted Memory Care for a Loved One?

September 19, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

If mom or dad or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, there may come a time when you are no longer able to provide the level of care they need at home. This is when finding a community specifically designed to care for older adults with memory impairments may be the answer. 

Memory care can be found at many assisted living communities and is typically equipped to care for seniors from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. The US News & World Report explains the facility’s goal is to provide a safe, supportive and stimulating environment where the individual can be as independent as possible.      

The best memory care facilities are designed to accommodate its special residents with things like clear wayfinding, which uses visual cues, color schemes and artwork to help with navigation and ease anxiety. Meals catered to residents’ individual needs and senior care services such as medication management and assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living) are provided.  

Another important component of memory care is purposeful programs to keep residents engaged in daily activities of community-life. Around-the-clock supervised care in a separate wing or floor of a broader senior living community should be provided to ensure residents’ safety and prevent them from wandering. Additionally caregivers should be trained in how to care for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. 

As one of the area’s finest retirement communities, MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living community offers just such memory care. Our distinctive Reflections Neighborhood was designed from the ground up to address the needs of our most tender residents. Located in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver, we are close to Porter Adventist Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center and transportation services to and from appointments are included in our care. 

To learn more about our new community and our commitment to serving seniors, please visit our website. We open to residents in winter of 2022 and encourage you to reserve your select suite today. Also ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/best-senior-living/memory-care?int=top_nav_Best_Memory_Care

September 19, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, memory care, assisted living communities
Retirement Communities

Foods to Help Protect Your Brain Health

September 16, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

Studies find several foods can help support our brain health; and lucky for us many of them are not only good for our health but taste good. A good example of this is blueberries. Kristin Kirkpatrick, manager of wellness nutrition services at the Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute, says, "Phytochemicals give fruits and vegetables their color. Foods high in these chemicals have the most effective means of improving your health, and blueberries have one of the strongest concentrations available." 

Lutein is also a very nutritional phytochemical found in dark, leafy vegetables like kale. Consuming foods loaded with lutein appears to have a positive effect on brain functions. The publication, Neurology, reported a 2018 study of 1,000 older adults found eating a single serving of green leafy vegetables daily may help slow cognitive decline linked to aging.     

Other studies suggest people who eat citrus fruits daily are able to prevent cognitive decline by more than two years. Other healthy brain foods are nuts, which contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, vitamin E and other minerals and vitamins. 

Magnesium is also important to our health and comes right after calcium, sodium and potassium in terms of the minerals our bodies require. Candace Pumper, a staff dietitian with the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, says, “Magnesium plays a fundamental role in the regulation of various biological processes that are necessary to function well.” Pivotal to brain health, a lack of the appropriate levels could reduce cognitive performance. Fortunately magnesium is found in lots of foods including nuts, seeds, greens and other vegetables, legumes, whole-grain products, dairy products, soy and cocoa. 

At the new MorningStar at Observatory Park, our assisted living provides the help residents need to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Our contemporary senior living community in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area offers 60 assisted living suites and 23 memory care suites. We open at the end of the year and encourage you to reserve your select suite at one of Denver’s premier retirement communities and ask about our exclusive savings for early depositors. 

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/best-foods-for-brain-health?slide=7

September 16, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

One of Denver’s Finest Retirement Communities Opens this Winter

September 14, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

MorningStar at Observatory Park is preparing to open to residents at the end of the year. Our new community is a prime example of MorningStar’s commitment to building retirement communities in fast-growing regions like Denver to address the expanding need for quality senior living. The South Denver’s historic DU neighborhood was carefully chosen to meet the desire of seniors who wish to stay in their neighborhood, close to family and friends and the many attractions they have come to enjoy.  

While we are still under construction and obviously cannot offer in-person tours, we do offer a beautifully-rendered, 360° virtual tour on our website. The “tour” provides an up-close look at our community’s common rooms and attractive décor throughout. Right from the moment you walk through the front door, you will encounter the welcoming presence of our attractive foyer and bistro. Our virtual tour also includes a good look at the second floor, which is where our Reflections Neighborhood will provide memory care for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

Our website also shares some personal information regarding our Senior Executive Director, Cheryl Davis and Rebecca Gonzales, our Director of Community Relations. Ms. Davis explains how MorningStar is committed to a culture that not only serves, but leads with kindness, honesty, love and humility. She says this culture extends to the team members they are hiring who radiate these qualities, and who look forward to building genuine, loving relationships with our residents, their families and fellow team members. 

Our contemporary 5-story building offers 60 assisted living suites in a variety of smartly-designed configurations and floorplans. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 23 suites along with the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve residents’ dignity and self-worth. Please call to schedule an appointment, and ask about our Move-in Specials at one of Denver’s finest senior living communities.

September 14, 2022 /MorningStar Living
memory care, retirement communities, senior living communities
Retirement Communities

MorningStar Offers Support to Philanthropic Initiatives at Home and Abroad

August 24, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

MorningStar of San Jose is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start by creating a true home for the residents in our communities, made possible by a dedicated team who understands the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, time and energy with others. 

The scope of our Vision to love and honor also includes impacting the world for good through the MorningStar Foundation, and offering support to philanthropic initiatives within our local neighborhoods and around the world. One such project is our support to the people of Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We serve not only the children of the Casa Bernabé orphanage but holistically serve the impoverished area. We also are proud to support Lifewater, whose Healthy Village strategy focuses not just on their delivery of a safe water point, but on the villagers’ monitored adoption of hygiene habits in each and every home.

Closer to home, MorningStar’s retirement communities are great supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association. We participate in events throughout the year including the “Longest Day Celebration” (summer solstice), which was on June 21st this year. Our uplifting celebrations include hosting fundraisers of every sort, balloon releases, games, food and more. Additionally, our communities participate in the “Walk to End Alzheimer's,” either by walking, sponsoring or hosting other creative ways to raise funds. Other efforts include doing our share by volunteering with local nonprofits to help where there is a need. 

MorningStar of San Jose is currently under construction and due to open in June 2023. We will have 69 assisted living suites and another 34 memory care suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations. Along with extensive care services, we will offer a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connectivity.  Located in West San Jose, we are near to medical centers, shopping, restaurants and recreation areas. 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 exceptional senior living in San Jose.

August 24, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, assisted living, senior living
Retirement Communities

Alzheimer’s Disease Affects a Person’s Physical Abilities

August 24, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

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

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

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

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

If you are looking for comprehensive, compassionate Alzheimers care for a loved one in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Observatory Park. Our unique approach to memory care is all-encompassing and provides an environment in which your loved one is given the support they need to make the most of each day. As our community is devoted to memory care only, every aspect of our home is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted, safe and secure. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Observatory Park proudly provides the very best in assisted living 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 communities Denver, Co has to offer.

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

August 24, 2022 /MorningStar Living
alzheimers care, memory care, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

Study Shows the Benefits of Walking for Seniors

August 22, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

A study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking.  Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.  

The 2½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail.  The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises.  The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.  

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.”  The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.  

Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes.  If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.  

At MorningStar at Silver Lake, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a retirement communities that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Along with our fitness center, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior housing in Everett, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar at Silver Lakes’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Everett, WA offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional independent and assisted living.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

August 22, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, senior housing, assisted living
Retirement Communities

Regular Physical Activity Can Reduce the Risk of Falls in Older Adults

August 03, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

Not only is physical exercise good for our heart and cognitive health but it can help older adults stay steady on their feet. Studies show regular physical activity can reduce the risk of falls in older adults at a high risk of falling by nearly one third. 

Experts explain certain kinds of exercise helps increase muscle mass and bone strength as well as improve balance and coordination, fight off osteoporosis, and reduce the risk for fractures and broken bones. Some of the best exercises are known as weight-bearing, which require a person to carry their weight and work against gravity. Examples include walking, dancing, hiking, climbing stairs, jogging and playing tennis or basketball. Doctors say if you can manage it, increasing your pace during aerobics, jogging and power walking make the exercises even more effective at strengthening bone density.  

Resistance exercises also work against gravity and help build muscle mass and improve bone strength. Strength training with weights, weight machines or resistance bands are all examples of exercises that rely on muscle contractions that tug on bones to stimulate them to bulk up. Along the same line, impact exercises such as jumping jacks and walking or running uphill have been shown to improve bone density fairly quickly. 

Healthcare providers say to be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you're taking medications that slow your coordination or throw off your balance. According to the Surgeon General, your optimal goal should be at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days, preferably daily.

For exceptional independent or assisted living, Everett, WA area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake. We make it easy to exercise with a fitness center along with a variety of wellness programs to keep you moving. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy your precious retirement years. Visit our website for more information about independent senior living, and if you have further questions, please give us a call and discuss more about our retirement communities.

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 and assisted living Everette, WA offers.

August 03, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, independent senior living, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

Support Your Heart Health by Getting Enough Sleep

July 25, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

The American Heart Association offers a checklist of eight key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health. The Life’s Essential 8 is designed to highlight things we can do to lower our risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems. 

In 2022, the Association added sleep duration to the list as a component of heart health. They say the amount and quality of sleep can influence a person’s eating habits, mood, memory, internal organs and more. 

One advantage to getting enough sleep is being more productive. After spending years working long hours to the detriment of a good night's sleep, Ariana Huffington now says, “The irony is that a lot of people forgo sleep in the name of productivity. But in fact our productivity is reduced substantially when we’re sleep deprived.” 

Professor of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Charles Czeisler, explains being sleep deprived can impair your abilities and is similar to being drunk. Poor sleep habits can cause you to eat more in an effort to feel more energetic, and may increase your risk for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. 

It is recommended adults get a solid 7 to 9 hours of sleep each day and a sleep routine will help you achieve this goal. Start by going to bed each night around the same time so you can wake up refreshed at the same time each morning. If possible, open your curtains to let in the morning sunshine or turn on the bedroom lights. Research still shows breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should consist of healthy foods. 

Another thing to get your day off right is to take a few minutes each morning doing something like practicing mindfulness or yoga. The other Life’s Essential 8 include maintaining a healthy diet, fitness, quitting nicotine, losing weight, and watching your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk for diabetes. 

Excitement is growing as one of the most desirable retirement communities in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver is preparing to open. MorningStar at Observatory Park offers 60 assisted living suites from studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans and 23 suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2022 and look forward to helping you reserve your select suite. 

Source: 

heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/sleep/how-to-sleep-better-with-tech-tweaks

July 25, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, assisted living, senior health
Retirement Communities

Meet the Newest Senior Living in San Jose

June 29, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

More and more seniors are discovering the value of retirement communities. Not only do they provide a comfortable home to safely age in place, but many also offer a wide array of luxury amenities, care and hospitality services, wellness programs and activities. 

San Jose’s newest senior living community is located on South De Anza Blvd. in West San Jose and offers the opportunity for long-time residents to continue to live in familiar surroundings or near their family. MorningStar of San Jose’s 4-story, 87,340 square foot building has 69 smartly designed private suites in a variety of configurations and floor plans for assisted living. For individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we provide 34 suites devoted to their care.

As an assisted living resident, you will receive the services needed to help maintain your independence and allow you to get back to living life on your own terms. Once you decide MorningStar of San Jose is where you want to live, we work together to create an Individualized Service Plan that includes trained, compassionate 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication management and more. Our carefree lifestyle additionally offers convenient underground parking and luxury amenities such as a bistro, theater, salon, fitness center, life enrichment room, sky terrace and beautiful landscaped courtyard.

MorningStar’s wellness programs and activities provide physical, intellectual, spiritual or social engagement, encouraging residents to stay active and productive. Activities range from targeted exercise classes, crafting, art classes, trivia, board and card games and much more. Movie nights, special events and local talent ensure residents are as entertained as they wish to be. Moreover, if we don’t have a class in something you have a special interest in, we encourage you to start one. 

MorningStar of San Jose is close to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital, shopping, restaurants, entertainment venues and recreation opportunities. Please visit our website for more information about our community, our company’s history and contact information. We are scheduled to open in June 2023 and are currently offering exclusive savings to early depositors.

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 exceptional senior living in San Jose.

June 29, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, assisted living, senior living
Retirement Communities

Having a Hard Time Keeping Your Medical Info Up-to-date?

June 15, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

As we age part of our baggage includes collecting an extensive medical history. However much our past history may be linked to our health today, it doesn’t necessarily follow us around. Experts explain we have yet to develop an all-knowing system that tracks a person from birth. Kelly Batista, executive director of the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System in Florida, says for some, compiling a thorough medical history can become overwhelming.

Medical professionals recommend a couple of methods to help keep track of vital medical information. The first is to use your patient portal attached to your healthcare provider or hospital. Along with storing medical history and test results, you can use it to communicate with your doctor, ask questions, and confirm and request appointments. It allows you to access information regarding prescribed medications and to request refills, view doctors’ notes after a visit, update insurance and make payments for care. Although remember unless you are part of a large medical care system, your records are not all linked.

Mobile apps are another method to store medical information and are designed to keep track of diet, fitness, chronic health conditions like diabetes and day-to-day health events. Rema Padman, a healthcare informatics, analytics and operations researcher and Trustees Professor of Management Science and Healthcare Informatics at Carnegie Mellon University, says, “We’re also seeing apps and wearables provided by health care providers to monitor patients at high risk for adverse events, so they can intervene early and prevent emergency visits or hospital admissions.” 

Other people prefer keeping their own file of paper copies of medical tests and medications or computer copies. Regardless of which system you use, doctors say it is worth the effort.    

MorningStar at Observatory Park’s assisted living provides seniors “a little help from friends” to enable them to live as independently as possible. Located in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area, our new, contemporary community offers 60 assisted living suites from studio and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our distinctive Reflections Neighborhood offers 23 suites. For more information regarding our retirement communities and to secure your select suite, visit our website today. While you are there, ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/keeping-track-of-health-information-what-you-should-know?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20May%2026%2006:26:01%20EDT%202022&utm_term=Your%20Health

June 15, 2022 /MorningStar Living
senior health, assisted living, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

4 Hobby Ideas for Seniors

June 06, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

One of the greatest things about retirement is having more time to spend on activities you enjoy. For many adults, the grind of everyday life during their working years doesn’t leave enough time to explore new interests. Retirement is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby and discover skills and topics you might enjoy.

Whether you are enjoying retirement in your own home or in an independent or assisted living community, these four hobby ideas for seniors can spark your creativity and help you meet new friends.

1. Volunteering

Nearly every community has non-profits and charities that are in need of volunteers. From serving meals to the homeless to walking dogs to folding donated clothes, there are many opportunities to lend a hand to those in need. 

Volunteering is not only a special way to give back and spend your time, but it is also a great way to build connections in the community and find like-minded people.

2. Cooking or Baking

During working years, cooking and baking can easily become things that are put on the backburner. During retirement, you have more time to explore new styles of food and experiment with recipes. 

Cooking is an activity that is perfect for senior living because it can be done alone or in a more social setting. Cooking and baking is also a versatile hobby because it caters to all skill levels, from total beginners to skilled cooks.

3. Writing

Writing is a hobby that can require a lot of time, which is why many people don’t get a chance to pick it up before retirement. Writing as a hobby can take many forms. You can try journaling about your daily experiences, writing poetry, or even writing a book or article for publication. 

If you really want to explore writing as a serious hobby, you can even enroll in a local writing class that can help you develop your craft.

4. Gardening

Gardening is a great hobby for seniors because it not only passes the time but also has physical and mental health benefits. Gardening gets you out of the house and into the fresh air. It also requires movement, which can strengthen your body and count toward your daily exercise goals. 

Gardening can also do wonders for your mental health because seeing your vegetation come to life has been shown to greatly improve mood and boost motivation levels. Taking up gardening as a hobby does not have to involve an entire landscape. 

If you are enjoying retirement in assisted or independent living, you can try simple potted plants or a micro garden to start.

Enjoy Hobbies During Retirement at MorningStar Senior Living

MorningStar is dedicated to helping retirees make the most in retirement communities . We believe in empowering seniors to live up to their fullest potential, and we strive to provide the best that independent and assisted living has to offer. Get in touch with us today to learn more about MorningStar at Silver Lake.

June 06, 2022 /MorningStar Living
retirement communities, senior living, assisted living
Retirement Communities

Location & Amenities to Please the Most Discerning Seniors

May 11, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

The excitement is growing as one of the most desirable retirement communities in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver takes shape. MorningStar at Observatory Park is located a few blocks from Observatory Park, home to the University of Denver’s beautiful campus and the Chamberlin Observatory. The area is renowned for a striking mix of modern and old architecture, mature trees, lovely gardens, wide streets and grassy lawns as well as the East Harvard Gulch Trail. Eclectic eateries, coffee shops and a brewery line the local streets. 

Incorporated in 1886 as the town of South Denver, the DU neighborhood has a long and storied Colorado history. Originally the land was donated by Rufus "Potato" Clark, a reformed alcoholic and potato farmer, and contained several conditions including planting trees and the laying out of a street grid. He also demanded that no alcohol ever be made or sold in the area, and even today “some home mortgages in south Denver have old covenants against producing or selling alcohol on the premises.”

The University of Denver’s campus is designated as an arboretum and University Hall, constructed in the 1890s, still remains. The Evans Chapel (formerly Grace Methodist Church), is a designated Denver Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks was built in 1878. 

Our MorningStar at Observatory Park community offers landscaped grounds, an enclosed courtyard with BBQ grill, and rooftop terrace and bocce ball court with spectacular city and mountain views. Onsite amenities include a full salon, massage/therapy room, fitness center, 4th floor Sky Terrace with bocce ball court, 6th floor rooftop green and much more.  

We define our brand of assisted living as providing seniors “a little help from friends” to enable residents to live life as independently as possible. Our home offers 60 assisted living suites from studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans and 23 suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and forms of dementia in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. We additionally offer respite care and trial stays (from one week up to a month).

If the MorningStar name sounds familiar we operate 32 retirement communities around the Western US and have several communities around Denver including MorningStar of Littleton, MorningStar of Jordan and MorningStar at RidgeGate. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information. Also ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: 9news.com/article/life/style/colorado-guide/the-du-neighborhood-classic-beauty-and-college-vibes/73-346314496

May 11, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, alzheimers care, dementia care, retirement communities
Retirement Communities

Supportive, Holistic Care Services

March 26, 2022 by MorningStar Living in Retirement Communities

MorningStar at Observatory Park’s assisted living is designed to support and engage residents’ mind, body and spirit. Our wide array of amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs and activities help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life.  

In fact MorningStar’s comprehensive care services can help extend the stay of a resident if their health changes and they require more care. Furthermore our dedicated team has experience finding creative solutions that yield a higher quality of care for our residents at a lower cost to their families. 

Along with 24/7 Care Managers, Certified Medication Care Managers, CPR-trained staff on every shift and access to licensed nurses; we assist residents with obtaining a wide range of therapeutic and medical services from third-party providers. Individualized service plans may include things like mechanical lift assistance, weights and vital monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, and palliative/hospice care. We also offer pharmacy services to keep your prescriptions filled and medications dispersed as needed. Other services include transportation to medical appointments, scheduled physician visits, and specialty medical and dental care.

We are located in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area and offer 60 assisted living suites, a selection of studio to one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. For your comfort and convenience, amenities include a full salon, bistro, club rooms, art studio, fitness center and more. Our Reflections Neighborhood is on the second floor of our community and has 23 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia-related diseases. 

We like to say that MorningStar’s assisted living provides seniors “a little help from friends” to live life on their own terms. Our retirement communities offer carefree retirement years with the chance to meet new friends and try new hobbies and explore new interests. Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our company and our commitment to serving seniors. We are ready to answer your questions and can help you reserve a suite of your choice in our beautiful new home. Also learn more about the benefits of our “Founders Club Specials.”

March 26, 2022 /MorningStar Living
assisted living, alzheimers care, dementia care, retirement communities
Retirement Communities
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