The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of San Jose

At MorningStar, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating and we want San Jose area families to know we are here to help shoulder the burden. Our new community will offer loving, compassionate care to those with memory impairment in our Reflections Neighborhood. While new to San Jose, we are not new to senior living and specialize in caring for our most tender residents within our 30+ communities across eleven states.  MorningStar of San Jose is scheduled to open in the spring of 2023.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available.  We are different from other communities in that every aspect of our memory care is designed from the ground up to accommodate residents. Secure and inviting, the Reflections Neighborhood gives residents as much freedom as possible. 

Through the rigors of MorningStar’s Lavender Sky training, our staff truly understands Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-loss conditions; and after a family decides to place a loved one in our care, we get to work. This starts by learning as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and personal preferences through a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” Using this information, we create a specialized, individualized care plan that helps to calm or stimulate as a particular situation needs. 

Meals are attractively served, and tasty as well as nutritional. Many foods are easily eaten with fingers to accommodate those who may have trouble using a fork and knife. In addition, our wellness programs keep residents purposefully engaged and leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort, as we focus on residents’ unique needs.         

Along with our memory care, we will offer assisted living as well as respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month). Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating 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.

MorningStar at Observatory Park Provides Compassionate Memory Care

Opening soon in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver, MorningStar at Observatory Park will offer compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of dementia brings with it and wish to share the burden. 

MorningStar's comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our 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. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood 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 Observatory Park 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. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more our beautiful new assisted living and memory care community in Denver.

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

Exercises for Optimal Bone Health

As we age, maintaining bone strength is extremely important as our bones are a primary component of the skeletal system, supporting our bodies and allowing us to move. The National Institutes of Health explains that our bones protect our brain, heart, and other organs from injury and store minerals such as calcium and phosphorus to help keep them strong. They also release the minerals into the body when we need them for other uses. 

The John Hopkins Medical Bone Center offers advice for people of all ages to help improve bone health. Deborah Sellmeyer, M.D., medical director of the Metabolic Bone Center, recommends focusing on overall good nutrition. This includes getting the proper amount of calcium, vitamin D, protein and potassium along with adding weight bearing exercises to your routine. 

Older adults are especially prone to bone loss, which can lead to diseases like osteoporosis, putting you at a higher risk for broken bones or fractures. Just as exercise is good for our heart and muscles, it is also essential to keeping our bones strong and the most effective way to maintain bone health is with weight bearing exercises. 

Experts explain weight bearing exercises include any activity where you carry your body weight and work against gravity. Good examples include walking, dancing, hiking, running, climbing stairs or golf. Types of exercise not as targeted to building bone health are swimming and bicycling. While exercises designed to improve balance may not necessarily build strong bones, they are good for preventing falls and keeping you on your feet. 

MorningStar of San Jose is a new community located in San Jose. Known as the capital of Silicon Valley, the vibrant city of San Jose also offers great weather, quality medical care, local eateries and safe suburban neighborhoods. Visit our website for contact information and availability at the area’s finest assisted living and memory care and be sure to 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 meeting you and your family.

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/news/publications/jh_bayview_news/summer_2013/the_importance_of_bone_health

Staying Well Hydrated Offers Many Benefits Including Heart Health

We know there are many reasons to stay hydrated including regulating body temperature, aiding in digestion and supporting energy levels. Now a new study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) adds another important one. They found, “Consuming sufficient amounts of fluids throughout life not only supports essential body functioning but also may reduce the risk of severe heart problems in the future.”

The study suggests good hydration may prevent or slow down the changes in the heart that could lead to heart failure. The large study consisted of 15, 792 adults from the age of 44 to seventy who were followed over the next 25 years. Several times throughout this period, participants’ serum sodium concentrations were taken and recorded. Doctors know when fluid levels decline, serum sodium concentrations increase. For every 1 mEQ/L increase within the normal range of 135-146 mEq/L, participants experienced a 5% higher chance of developing heart failure. 

Many people avoid drinking water as they don’t like the taste, but experts say fluids can be more than just water. While it is not a good idea to drink lots of sugary beverages, there are plenty of other healthy options. Adding a slice of lemon or cucumber to water may make it easier to drink water. The CDC also suggests other low-calorie healthy choices such as plain coffee or teas, sparkling water, seltzers, and flavored waters. If you are undergoing treatment for an existing disease, please consult with your doctor regarding your specific optimal fluid intake. 

At the MorningStar of San Jose assisted living and memory care community, we provide a supportive environment in which residents are able to live rich, independent lives while receiving the services they need including best-in-class dining. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care San Jose offers and ask about our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in spring of 2023. 

Has a Loved One Been Diagnosed with a Dementia-Related Disease?

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, 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. 

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is devastating to the family and want you to know we are here to help. Our holistic memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  For trusted memory care in Albuquerque, please contact us or visit our website 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 exceptional memory care in Albuquerque.

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

Your Physician can Help Decide if it is Time for Memory Care?

A Place for Mom’s website explains that many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia can live independently with or without the help of in-home caregivers or family members. However they also stress there may come a time when the disease progresses to a stage where the person’s safety and physical well-being is in jeopardy and more care is needed. 

As a person with Alzheimer’s may have good days and bad, it can be hard to tell if they would be better served in a memory care facility. Experts say a telling sign is has their appearance has changed. Do they look unkempt and have they lost weight due to forgetting to eat? Do they appear agitated and confused? Are they unable to carry on a conversation?  

Your loved one’s healthcare provider can help you decide if it is time for memory care. Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says, “When talking about memory care, or some form of a different living arrangement, I’ll center the talk around their ability to perform the activities of daily living and safety.” 

A Place for Mom says to gauge a senior’s abilities and safety, your doctor may ask if they:

• Get lost on routes they take frequently, such as going to the grocery store or taking a walk around the neighborhood

• Have trouble remembering to eat or drink

• Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately

• Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual

• Have they had a fall or been to the emergency room recently

• Leave the stove on after preparing food

At the new MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley, we specialize in caring for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Our holistic approach includes purposeful activities and Montessori-based therapies. Our new community is located in West San Jose in Santa Clara County and will open to residents in winter 2022. Please visit our website today to inquire about availability, pricing and to reserve a select suite for your loved one. Inquire about savings for early depositors.  

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

What is Sleep Apnea?

The US News & World Report says approximately 1 in 3 adults are believed to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). They explain the condition causes a person to momentarily stop breathing at intervals throughout the night and interrupting their sleep. 

Pulmonologist and section head of sleep medicine at National Jewish Health in Denver, Dr. Sheila Tsai, explains, “A person’s airway either partially collapses or completely closes (obstructs) during sleep.” She says episodes can be frequent throughout the sleep cycle and cause drops in oxygenation. While the person may only awake briefly as they struggle to breathe, their sleep is fragmented and non-restorative as it infers with REM, the deep, restful stage of sleep. 

Common causes of OSA are obesity and age, and The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine estimates as many as 80 percent of people suffering from OSA are undiagnosed. The condition typically causes the person to snore loudly, interrupted with gasps, hesitations and snorts. They may wake up feeling unrefreshed and sleepy during the day, or complain of headaches. OSA can additionally cause other sleep disorders to become worse like restless-leg syndrome and sleep walking.  

Doctors say OSA is a serious, but treatable condition and it is important to seek medical care. A sleep study or test done in a clinic setting or even at home is the best way to diagnose the condition. Untreated OSA can put a person at a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other problems.   

Please allow us to introduce the new MorningStar at Observatory Park, which will open to residents this winter. The fashionable, 5-story building is in the historic DU area and home to old trees, pretty gardens, local eateries, and a few blocks from Observatory Park. Our senior living community offers 60 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans. For those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood’s holistic approach to memory care preserves residents’ dignity and self-worth. Contact us to learn more about our Founders Club Savings and reserve your select suite today.  

Source: health.usnews.com/conditions/sleep-apnea/articles/best-sleeping-positions-for-sleep-apnea?

Moving a Parent to a Memory Care Community

For many suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, there comes a time when they require more professional care. Memory care communities like MorningStar at North Ridge in Albuquerque are designed to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MorningStar at North Ridge represents the very best in Alzheimer’s care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about trusted care in Albuquerque.

A Community Designed for Comfort, Wellness & Security

The new MorningStar of San Jose assisted living and memory care community is a high-end residential environment designed around the diverse needs of older adults. From a choice of smartly-designed floor plans to luxury amenities and relaxing, inviting common areas, residents can truly enjoy their retirement years. 

Our new community is currently under-development in partnership with Swenson, a Northern California company with four generations of expertise in proven Design-Develop-Build platforms. MorningStar’s Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger, states, “We continue to establish the MorningStar brand in fast-growing regions like San Jose in step with the expanding need for quality senior living.” He adds, we are responsive to the desire of seniors who wish to stay in their neighborhood, close to family and friends and the attractions they have come to enjoy.

Our contemporary-styled suites are designed for comfort and privacy and equipped with kitchenettes; handicapped-accessible bathrooms; emergency call systems; and private heating and air conditioning. Smart floor plans, large windows to let in lots of natural light and high-end finishes ensure you will be proud to call it your own. Throughout our community, state-of-the-art designs feature a rooftop terrace spanning over 10,000 square feet, subterranean parking, bistro, salon, theater, courtyard, and fitness center. 

MorningStar of San Jose’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Accommodating residents over the age of 55 years old, we are a fully-licensed Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) regulated by the State of California. 

Contact us to learn more about pricing and availability at the area’s most trusted assisted living and memory care in San Jose 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 MorningStar family.

Don’t Let Misconceptions Keep You from Creating a Living Will

Many times people put off creating a living will, also known as a health care power of attorney, because they don’t understand how important it is to have one; or they fear they are giving up too much control over their life. The medical community explains the reason you need one is to ensure you get the type of care you want when you can no longer speak for yourself.

The Harvard Medical Schools says before you create a living will there are a few things to consider including separating fact from fiction. To start with, think about what quality of life means to you. Sometimes having extraordinary measures taken to save your life doesn’t factor in where such treatments will leave you. Having a living will can help guide your medical team on just such decisions.

Some people worry if they choose to refuse certain life-sustaining medical treatments to prolong life even when death is inevitable that it will invalidate their life insurance policy. Medical professionals explain there is no reason to worry as the recorded cause of death will be from the person’s underlying medication condition. Another common concern is if medical treatment is started, it can’t be stopped. This too is not true as treatment plans can always be updated and revised to address current circumstances.   

Medical professionals want patients to know treatment can be started or stopped. Even if you refuse certain life sustaining treatments, it does not mean you won’t get other types of treatment such as intensive comfort care to help manage pain and symptoms. 

Seniors especially should be aware that a recent new directive has pretty much replaced a DNR (do not resuscitate), which only gives EMS permission to not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) can include a DNR as well as provide more instruction regarding medical interventions such as intubation, antibiotic use and feeding tubes. Talk to your medical provider to learn more. 

MorningStar of San Jose’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care San Jose offers and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We expect to open to residents in spring of 2023. 

These Delicious SuperFoods Encourage Healthy Living in Seniors

As we age, prepared, processed meals from the grocery store may have a specific appeal to us; They save us time, they are easy to prepare, and cleanup is relatively non-existent. However, these quick meals may be harming us more than we consider. Nutrient-rich ingredients within meals prepared from scratch can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health, especially in seniors. This is why at MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Observatory Park, our executive chefs prepare meals using BrainWise superfoods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  

MorningStar’s culinary team is intentional about leveraging the healing power of a special class of ingredients known as Super Foods. These Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts, and other foods high in Omega 3 fats and encourage brain health. Omega-3, a category of polyunsaturated fatty acids vital to a healthy central nervous system, are not produced by our bodies and must ingest them through our foods. An ideal source: cold-water fish, such as salmon. Salmon dishes are a fan favorite at Morningstar Senior Living and are a great way to get creative with other flavors, such as a mango salsa, that enhance the whole dish. 

MorningStar retirement homes have created graciously appointed dining spaces that are designed for comfort, convenience, and community and are adorned in luxury and modernity. The dining experience is an integral part of MorningStar’s signature wellness program, which creates daily opportunities for social, intellectual, spiritual, and physical health. Our all-day menu is largely prepared from scratch, just as our residents would have done in years past, with daily and weekly specials. 

Diet is the centerpiece of wellness, even more so as we age. Therefore, MorningStar makes every meal a special occasion thanks to our Executive Chefs that have worked all over the world and bring their expertise to tempting dishes. We are also considerate of dietary restrictions, and our chefs are happy to create flavor profiles that stimulate the senses and can be easily handled and digested. Some communities also feature full bar service; others, wine and beer selections during happy hour and at meals.

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 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 homes Denver, Co has to offer.

The Importance of Establishing a Schedule for Seniors Struggling with Memory Loss

Every now and then, we may find ourselves wondering where we put our glasses, cell phone, or house keys. As we age, these issues may become more frequent or may change into us forgetting names of people we just met or forgetting the time of an appointment. These forgetful instances can be routine in aging. However, if you find yourself, or a loved one, struggling to remember important household tasks, important self-care maintenance, or forgetting to take medications, it may be time to investigate a medical review for a memory loss diagnosis. When watching over someone with special memory care needs, establishing and maintaining a routine is a beneficial way to keep your loved ones comfortable and happy. 

Establishing and maintaining a daily routine for seniors struggling with dementia reduces anxiety and promotes predictability. Keeping meals, bedtimes, and medication dispensing consistent and reliable every day around the same time keeps seniors in memory care with dementia more comfortable and less prone to anxious behaviors or frustration. In this way, care feels reliable and promotes confidence within our loved ones and they can feel taken care of by us in return. 

It can be helpful to put your senior’s routine into writing to plan out the whole day for them and make things easy to follow. It’s important to not keep schedules rigid and allow for flexibility, though. Remember, everyone is different and requires a spectrum of needs and wants throughout the day. Try to fill each day with many little activities that are familiar to your loved one that keep them entertained but are also not too lengthy as they may become overwhelmed and confused. 

For exceptional memory care, MorningStar West Valley, set to open in fall 2022, provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. We offer support to residents as well as their families with an array of services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques.

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.

Memory Care Provides another Level of Senior Living

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, at some point, you may require professional help. Dementia care’s first priority is to ensure the safety of the person as many of the disease’s symptoms place the person more at risk for accidents and other mishaps. 

Forgetfulness and confusion are some of the most recognizable signs of Alzheimer’s and can cause problems like forgetting to turn off a stove, getting lost in familiar areas or wandering. Other common early stages of the disease include vision/spatial issues and impaired reasoning and judgment, problem solving and difficulty in completing everyday tasks.  

Our memory care facility are equipped to provide a safe, stable residential environment for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia as well as provide meaningful activities to keep the person engaged. At most facilities, the staff receives extensive training and information regarding the disease to better treat and understand residents. 

At West San Jose’s newest memory care community, MorningStar at West Valley offers a holistic approach to memory care for the utmost comfort, safety and well-being of the individual. Once a family decides to entrust the care of their loved one to MorningStar, we create a Personalized Service Plan to provide the care, people, programs, and activities they need. Residents receive healthy, specially prepared meals to make eating less stressful along with daily health monitoring, 24/7 care from a well-trained staff, access to licensed nurses and other third-party service providers.

Our memory care facility’s 42 suites offer a choice of studio or companion floorplans. We are scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2022 and look forward to reserving a select suite for your loved one. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our compassionate memory care community; and be sure to ask about “Founders Club Specials.” 

Get the Help You Need to Live Life to the Fullest

Anticipation is growing as we get closer to opening our doors to residents at MorningStar’s newest Denver area senior living community. MorningStar at Observatory Park in South Denver offers seniors trusted assisted living and memory care. 

As one of the area’s top retirement communities, we offer compassionate care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities to enhance residents’ quality of life and allow them to comfortably age in place. Assisted living residents receive a Personalized Care Plan to help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) 24/7 care managers, medication management, access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party providers. 

As each team member plays a huge role in creating an atmosphere of love and respect throughout our community, our first requirement is to have a big heart. Our distinguished staff recognizes it is a privilege to serve and strives to nurture connections between residents, families and fellow team members. 

MorningStar at Observatory Park’s stylish features include an elevated courtyard, outdoor dining area, spa and a wellness center. Our rooftop terrace offers a garden with a shade trellis and causal seating as well as dining tables to give residents the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the spectacular views.

For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has 23 memory care suites. All MorningStar’s dementia care specialists complete thorough training including our signature program, Lavender Sky, to help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love.

Assisted living and memory care suites are available in a variety of floor plans ranging from 400 to 959 square feet, and offer large handicap-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems, high-end finishes and sweeping views from oversized windows. Please contact us today for more information and to reserve your select suite. Be sure to inquire about our Move-in Specials. We open in the last quarter of 2022.

The Positive Effects of Humor and Music for Those with Dementia

People with Alzheimer’s disease often appear to lose the ability to laugh or smile but researchers say most individuals still retain some sense of humor. It is a good thing as a study from Australia reports humor may enable Alzheimer’s patients to better cope. The University of New South Wales study shows humor therapy can be as effective as some drugs in managing agitation in dementia patients. 

Researchers studied the effectiveness of professional humor therapists, known as Elder Clowns, who work with trained nursing home staff called Laughter Bosses. The group performed weekly humor sessions to nursing home patients or individuals using techniques similar to Clown Doctors, who work in children’s hospitals. An additional study from Osaka University in Japan reinforced the Australian research finding the positive effects of humor can last for weeks after a therapy session. 

Other areas of research have discovered positive behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s patients when listening to a personalized playlist. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease reports on a study showing music with a particular meaning to a person “can activate regions of the brain typically untouched by early Alzheimer’s disease and may offer a new way to approach anxiety, depression and agitation in patients.”

Jeff Anderson, M.D., a contributing author of the study and an associate professor of radiology at the University of Utah Health, explains the study was inspired by the “Alive Inside” documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. He adds music-brain connection research is just getting started. 

Albuquerque’s MorningStar Memory Care at North Ridge is designed from the ground up to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach to Alzheimer’s care includes a gentle flow of purposeful activities that leverages the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort. We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.    Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.  

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 Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Sources: 

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2018/humor-alzheimers-dementia-caregiving

aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2018/music-therapy-alzheimers-symptoms

It is Important to Stay Involved in Your Medical Care

We have all heard horror stories of someone getting the wrong treatment or a botched surgical procedure, or other examples of outright poor medical care. Doctors say one way to help reduce medical errors is to be an active partner in your care, be it at the doctor’s office, the hospital or pharmacy. If you think your chances of a misdiagnosis, unnecessary surgery, or being given the wrong medication are slim, read the following. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” A 2021 StatPearls reports, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  

The danger of a misdiagnosis is it results in delayed treatment for the real problem and perhaps a round of the wrong medications. However, before you lay all the blame on the medical profession, experts say many misdiagnoses can be the fault of the patient. Too often a person fails to disclose important facts regarding their medical history, symptoms or honestly report lifestyle habits including alcohol consumption, smoking and diet. 

Before you go to your next doctor visit, doctors say taking the time to prepare for the visit helps you use your time most effectively. Remember the actual time you see the doctor is short so you may want to write down the points you wish to discuss. For help, the Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore offers a QuestionBuilder app. It is available from AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple App store and can be used to help you prepare.  

Tips to make the most of your visit include bringing a list of your current medications and the dosage as well as how long you have been on it and why you take it. If you worry you may forget something the doctor said, bring a family member or trusted friend. Experts say don’t feel awkward about seeking a second opinion; and if your problem is not getting any better, be persistent. 

MorningStar of San Jose is a new assisted living and memory care community offering all the luxury amenities, care services, and wellness programs residents need to comfortably and safely age in place. Our 5-story building offers 69 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans with kitchenettes, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. For those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, our Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care designed to enhance quality of life for our most tender residents. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in San Jose.

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, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Habits That are Bad for Brain Health

Our modern-day lifestyle encourages behaviors that are bad for the health of our brain as well as other parts of our body. Research finds the following four habits are especially dangerous for cognitive health. They are sitting, lack of socializing, inadequate sleep, and chronic stress. The good news is they are habits we can easily change. 

Many of our workplaces and entertainment pursuits include sitting for long periods of time. In fact, a 2018 study published in the PLOS One reports people aged 45 to 75 sit for an average of 6½ hours a day. Researchers found “sitting too much is linked to changes in a section of the brain essential to memory.” Using MRI scan, they looked at the region of the brain known to make new memories called the medial temporal lobe (MTL). Comparing the number of hours a day the person spent sitting, those who sat the most had the thinnest MTL regions, a precursor to cognitive decline and dementia. To help improve the functioning of your MTL, the study’s authors recommend getting up and moving at least every 30 minutes. Your activity could be a quick round of squats or pushups or a walk around your front yard, or somethings similar for a few minutes. 

Lack of socialization can also lead to a thinning of the MTL as a number of studies link loneliness to a higher risk of dementia. Experts say you don’t have to completely change your lifestyle but rather try to routinely connect with three or four family members or friends. The number of social connections is less important than the degree of meaningful interactions.  

Other healthy cognitive behaviors include getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night and reducing your level of stress. Research shows chronic stress “can kill brain cells and shrink the prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for memory and learning.” To manage stress, experts suggest breathing techniques and practicing mindfulness.  

MorningStar of San Jose assisted living and memory care community provides a full range of care and hospitality services and luxury amenities. We also offer a complement of wellness programs and activities to help residents stay engaged physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially. Contact us to learn more about the newest assisted living in San Jose and to reserve your select suite. We open to residents in the second quarter of 2023. 

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, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/the-worst-habits-for-your-brain

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is Difficult for Everyone

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is not only difficult for the person but affects their spouse, children, other family members and anyone who cares for them. However, experts say it is important to remember the person who is most affected, and if they ask you what is wrong, you should be honest and simply tell them. It may even give the person a sense of relief to know they are not insane and there is an explanation as to what is happening to them. 

That being said, medical professionals recommend if you can, have the person’s physician tell them but remember, a person afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease is forgetful, especially regarding new information. This means they will probably ask again (and again) what is wrong with them and it will be up to you to tell them. Doctors advise you to give a brief explanation.

Additionally, the rest of the family needs to be told as well as the person’s friends. Doctors say often he or she will appear to be healthy especially in the early stages so it is only fair to let others know so they do not mistake “odd” behaviors for craziness or meanness. 

Another reason it is helpful for people to know about the person’s condition is they can do some research on how to best respond and communicate with their loved one or friend. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says to:

Give simple, step-by-step instructions.

Repeat instructions and allow more time for a response. Try not to interrupt.

Not talk about the person as if he or she isn't there.

Not talk to the person using “baby talk” or a “baby voice.”    

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

Sources: 

health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-should-you-tell-someone-who-has-alzheimers-disease

nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving-changes-communication-skills

Memory Care Facility Built Exclusively for Residents’ Needs

The new MorningStar at West Valley was developed by award-winning architects and designers to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of residents suffering from memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our newly built community focuses entirely on providing the finest dementia care designed around the special needs of residents.

We start with 42 smartly-designed suites in a choice of studio or companion configurations within our 31,801 square-foot, two-story community. Studio suites are around 325 square-foot in size and companion units are almost 500 square-feet. Each unit is equipped with an emergency call system and a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom. Our floor plans are available on our website to give you an idea of the configuration that would work best for your loved one. Included in your monthly fee are basic cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

Each level has its own all-day, dinner room; Life Enrichment room and community living room. The 2nd floor offers a terrace. Onsite amenities include a salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures, massage/therapy room and fitness center. MorningStar’s signature wellness programs and activities leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment. 

Residents receive personalized service plans, daily health monitoring and 24/7 care from our compassionate, well-trained staff. Additionally we provide access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers.

MorningStar at West Valley’s convenient location offers easy access to the I-280 and San Tomas Expressway. The Westgate Center shopping center is nearby as are the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. For a peaceful walk, Starbird Park is a few blocks away along with expansive Open Space Preserves and State Parks surrounding San Jose. 

MorningStar at West Valley memory care community will open to residents in the fourth quarter of 2022. Please visit our website today to reserve a select suite for your loved one.

Ensuring the Safety of a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

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

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

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

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we provide memory care homes for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community is specifically designed to enhance our residents’ freedom and fully accommodate the disposition and behavior of those with memory impairment. To ensure the safety and well-being of residents, our community is completely secure, including courtyards and strolling paths. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participants in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please contact us 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 contact or visit our website for more information about Albuquerque’s finest memory care.