The Changing Needs of a Person with Alzheimer’s

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 persons in place for an essential quality of life. 

The first step to any decision regarding Alzheimer's 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 intensive 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 mobility issues? Other problems that may demand more professional care includes 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 you live around the San Jose area, we invite you to take a look at the new MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. While new to the community, we have several dozen senior living communities across the Western US including the up and coming MorningStar of San Jose. Our holistic approach to memory care starts with creating an Individualized Service Plan to address personal needs and provide a gentle flow of daily activities to calm or stimulate. We invite you to visit our website for more information and to talk to our team about our memory care facility. 

We will open to residents in the third quarter of 2022 and encourage you to reserve a select suite today. Also be sure to inquire about our Founders Club Specials.

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

Make the Most of Your Walk

Even when engaging in physical activity like a walk, experts offer tips to help avoid injury and to make it more enjoyable. The first thing they say is to make sure you are wearing the right footwear. A walking shoe should have good heel-to-toe flexibility and fit well. Too tight shoes can cause blisters and corns and too loose shoes do not provide the proper support. The shoe should have the space to wiggle your toes but keep your foot supported and stable. Experts recommend shopping for shoes later in the day when your feet are already slightly swollen to ensure you get the right size. 

Maintaining good posture is important to your comfort and well-being, and helps you to not only walk faster but avoid injury. Try to keep your spine upright with shoulders back, down and relaxed; eyes looking forward and arms swinging freely. Walking around staring at your phone’s screen isn’t conducive to good posture and can also lead to an accident. Pedestrian injuries associated with phone use have more than doubled since 2004. 

To help you stay interested in walking, try varying your route. If possible, get out into nature as studies show it can lift your spirits. Owning a dog is also good for people as studies indicate pet owners who regularly walk their dogs typically get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly (the minimum recommended amount of exercise for adults). Lastly, remember to dress for the weather. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from the sun, and bring along raingear if the weather indicates. Dressing in layers is useful as you may heat up while you walk.  

As one of the area’s finest retirement communities, MorningStar at Observatory Park offers assisted living and memory care. We are located in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver, home to mature trees, lovely gardens and local eateries, blocks from Observatory Park and in close proximity to Porter Adventist Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center. To learn more about our new community and our commitment to serving seniors, the local community and to people across the globe, please visit our website. Reserve your select suite today, and ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Source: webmd.com

Planning a Move to Senior Housing?

If you are moving from your own home into an independent or senior living community, most likely you will want to downsize. While it can sound overwhelming to go through a whole household of stuff and whittle it down to fit into a modest sized apartment, a few tips will help. 

Without question it is a lot of work and can be stressful and emotional but the Internet offers lots of useful information from organizing experts. Most say the trick is to prepare in advance by making a plan and allowing plenty of time. Remember, if you are interested, there are companies who offer these services and will do everything from helping with the downsizing process to packing up, and moving your things to your new home. 

Now you are ready for the sorting out process deciding what you will bring and what to give to family, donate, or throw away. This is the hardest task as your house is full of memories but again here is where a system works. Experts say sort by rooms and simplify the task by making a “yes” pile and a “no” pile. They warn not to make a “maybe” pile as it can end up growing in size and complicate your plan. Again, remember the goal is to simplify your life and not overcrowd the new place with useless stuff.   

Things to consider are the size of your new place and its layout (get measurements). You will want furniture scaled to fit as well as room for hobbies or musical instruments that are important to you. Also consider the amenities your new place offers such as a dining service. If most of your meals will be prepared by your new community, you will just need the basics in your kitchen. If the new place has a fitness center, there is no need to bring your own equipment.

Looking for an independent senior living in Everett, WA?  MorningStar at Silver Lake is a 55+ community that offers a vibrant, active lifestyle. Residents will enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, care services and a community of friends. Visit our website for contact information, photos, floor plans and a list of amenities.

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

Supportive, Holistic Care Services

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.”

People with Alzheimer’s Benefit from Purposeful, Meaningful Activities

The Alzheimer’s Association explains a person with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia don’t have to give up the activities they love. Rather they suggest the better option is to modify the activity to better fit their skill set and current ability. 

However even in the early stages of the disease, many withdraw from the activities they used to enjoy but experts say it is important to help them stay engaged. A modification can be as simple as reducing the number of people the person socializes with at a time. Smaller groups are less intimidating and reduce confusion. Also it helps to let the person’s other family members and friends know about the diagnosis.   

As the disease progresses, other changes will likely be in order. If you notice an activity seems to make them restless or irritable, either modify so it brings them happiness or stop it altogether. For instance, while a person’s skills may decline, someone who plays the piano may still enjoy playing the simple pieces they learned years ago.

Dementia care specialists say setting up a daily routine is important and should include the things they like to do on their own such as setting the table or folding laundry, and be done when the person seems to function the best. Remember to be flexible and include a range of creative, physical, social and spiritual activities that bring meaning and enjoyment into their life.   

MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley is the newest community in West San Jose’s and offers families trusted, compassionate memory care. After a thorough evaluation, we create a specialized, individualized service plan to address personal needs and provide a gentle flow of purposeful activities. 

Please visit our website to learn more about our community, and to contact our team with any questions you may have regarding our memory care facility. Opening in the third quarter of 2022, we can help you reserve a select suite for your loved one. Also ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/daily-care-plan

MorningStar at Silver Lake’s Assisted Living

As a vibrant 55+ community, MorningStar at Silver Lake has stylish apartments offering seniors a choice of independent living or assisted living. Our independent living is designed for active seniors who love the idea of someone else handling the maintenance and housekeeping giving them more time to socialize, travel and pursue their hobbies and interests. 

Assisted living is for seniors who require help with the activities of daily living (ADLs) to improve their quality of life. As an assisted living resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your needs.

Many residents report being surprised by how full their lives are after a move into an assisted living community. Moreover, rather than lose their independence as many fear such a move would do, most are pleased to discover once they get the daily care they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives. 

Community life solves the problem of loneliness as well as problems with meal prep many elderly adults experience, often resorting to frozen meals or fast food. MorningStar residents enjoy beautifully prepared meals, served restaurant-style and eaten in a relaxed, community setting. No longer driving? No worries as we offer scheduled transportation to area shopping as well as trips to the doctors and running errands.  

We also know it is important for seniors to continue to learn and contribute, which is why we offer a wide range of meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment. Moreover, if we do not have a program or activities that attract your interest or offer a hobby you would love to explore, we encourage you to start a club.  

Situated in the Puget Sound region surrounded by water, forests, and mountains, we are 25 miles north of Seattle, minutes from the world-renowned Providence Regional Medical Center, and close to shopping, restaurants and other services. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living in Everett and be sure to ask us about our Move-in Specials.

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

Stay Actively 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 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 at Observatory Park is a new assisted living and memory care community in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver. Our contemporary 5-story building offers 60 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. For those with Alzheimer’s and other types of memory loss, Reflections Neighborhood provides the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve the person’s dignity and self-worth. We open to residents in late 2022 and would love to help you reserve a select suite. Please ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Certain Foods May Help Reduce or Slow Memory Loss

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 also increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. 

The 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. 

West San Jose’s newest community, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley offers a holistic approach to memory care for the utmost comfort and security. Each resident receives an Individualized Service Plan to provide the care, people, programs, and activities they need as well as specially prepared, nutritious meals designed to make eating less stressful. 

Our memory care facility offers 42 suites in a choice of studio or companion suites and is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2022. Please visit our website for answers to your questions or to reserve a select suite.

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

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar at Silver Lake

For exceptional independent or assisted living, Everett, WA seniors are encouraged to learn more about MorningStar at Silver Lake.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our well-designed apartments for independent and assisted living.  Our spacious apartments are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and you can view specifics by clicking on the Floor Plans button.  

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our common areas including fitness center, salon, theater, game room, and more.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  

We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, available and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Start Improving Your Health Today

It is never too late to improve our health and making changes in our behaviors and attitudes can mean living a happier, longer life. Doctors say getting your weight under control, quitting smoking, eating more fruits and vegetables, and exercising can all significantly improve your health and longevity at any age. 

Remember taking care of our health also includes our brains. Experts used to believe the brain could not make new neuron connections as we aged but research now shows the “brain remains nimble and capable of physical change and growth throughout life.” In fact, studies find people, who step out of their comfort zone and try new hobbies and interests, can improve their cognitive health. 

Another misconception is thinking it is too late to start exercising or to lose weight. A meta-analysis of 39 studies on aging and resistance-type exercises such as lifting weights or using exercise bands, found it is possible to build muscle mass no matter what age. In the studies,  “1,300 adults over the age of 50 who did some form of this kind of training, muscle mass increased by an average of nearly 2.5 pounds in just five months.”

Being positive is a trait that helps people deal more effectively with stress and worry and is linked to longevity. Researchers also find it is better for us to be in charge of our own medical care. One way to do this is to stay up-to-date on medical research and advice regarding care options as well as asking pertinent questions of our healthcare providers. Other things we can do to protect our health is to get appropriate screenings and tests, use our time productively and stay socially engaged. 

MorningStar at Silver Lake is a 55+ community that offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and as much or as little social engagement as you want. Our range of onsite amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities are designed for stress-free retirement years. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior housing Everett, WA offers.  

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

Source: verywellhealth.com/boost-longevity-in-your-60s-2223714

Researchers See a Future of Hip and Knee Repair Without Surgery

Researchers say a future of hip or knee “replacements” done without surgery may be on the horizon. By employing a combination of drugs and stem-cell therapies, it may be possible to “repair cartilage before osteoarthritis sets in or an operation is needed.”  

Osteoarthritis, commonly afflicting the elderly, is a degenerative disease attributed to "wear and tear" but can also be caused by earlier sports injuries, obesity and other trauma to the cartilage around the knee, hip or shoulder joints. Experts explain the loss of cartilage, which does not have its own blood supply or nerves, limits its ability to mend itself and is the major cause of joint pain and arthritis affecting over 32.5 million people in the U.S. In 2017 alone, there were 754,000 knee replacements done and 448,000 hip replacements.  

Michael Longaker, a professor of surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and co-director of its Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, explains the goal of his research is to not wait for osteoarthritis to develop, but to halt the degenerative process so people never need to have a joint replaced. His team’s focus is on programming stem cells to become cartilage cells. Other researchers are working to develop drugs that stop the progression of “wear and tear” on joints. Researchers are also looking at methods to “effectively deliver new cells and compounds” as well as designing materials to help new cells integrate with existing tissue. Scientists admit they still have a ways to go before they will have alternative therapies in place but remain optimistic. 

MorningStar at Silver Lake is a vibrant 55+ community offering seniors the finest independent and assisted living in Everett, WA. Our beautiful home has apartments in a range of floor plans and configurations, luxury amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship for carefree retirement years. Please visit our website to learn more about our community and use our Virtual Assistant to inquire about availability and pricing.     

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

Source:wsj.com/articles/a-knee-or-hip-replacement-without-surgery-its-on-the-horizon-11631196055

Is My Memory Loss Something I Should Be Concerned About?

Growing older can bring with it a variety of problems including worrying about your ability to remember things or the fact that it now takes you a lot longer to learn something new. While you may be concerned about forgetting where you put your glasses or the date of your next doctor visit, or even forgetting to pay an occasional bill, experts say most likely it is just normal aging.

So what are the differences between normal forgetfulness and signs of a deeper problem? The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says it is about the degree of forgetfulness. While mild forgetfulness may be normal, memory loss that impacts your day-to-day life is a cause for concern and includes things like forgetting how to get home, or problems driving or using your phone. 

The NIA says this is the time to have an honest discussion with your doctor as he/she can help determine whether it is normal aging or something else that is causing the problem. If indicated, they can do a series of cognitive and medical tests to narrow down the problem. It is important to remember not all memory loss is a sign of Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia but may be the result of a medication you are taking, depression, infection or a medical problem. 

Doctors say it is important to get a diagnosis because if it is dementia there are medications and treatments that can help. A diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) means a person is considered to have more memory or other thinking problems than other people their age. If a person does have MCI, typically they can still care for themselves and do their normal activities. While it can be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease, the NIA says not everyone with MCI will develop Alzheimer’s. 

For experienced, trusted memory care, please consider West San Jose’s newest community, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our community, and to contact our team with any questions you may have regarding our memory care facility. We are scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2022 and can help you reserve a select suite for your loved one. Also ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

A Holistic Approach to Trusted Memory Care

For comprehensive, compassionate memory care your family can trust, we invite you to take a look at West San Jose’s newest community, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. 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 a memory care facility, every aspect of our home is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted, safe and secure. 

We know it is devastating when a family receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease and we feel called to help by shouldering some of the burden. Our team is made up of the kind of individuals who recognize it is a privilege to serve and is highly trained in our signature “Lavender Sky” program, which uses Montessori-based therapies to calm and stimulate. Regardless of the level of memory loss, we strive each day to foster a nurturing environment for the highest quality of life. 

Our daily, meaningful wellness programs engage residents in a variety of ways including dancing and listening to music, singing, crafting, painting or participating in physical exercise. We also use therapy animals and aromatherapy as well as take residents on outings and hold special events. 

As a resident, your loved one will receive 24/7 care from compassionate, trained care managers and daily health monitoring. In addition they will have access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers.

MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley is due to open in the third quarter of 2022, and we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our holistic memory care. Our staff looks forward to answering all of your questions and can help you reserve a suite once you have made the decision to entrust MorningStar with the care of your loved one.

New Memory Care in West San Jose – Trusted & Experienced

Every aspect of the new MorningStar at West Valley is designed to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Conveniently located in West San Jose just south of the city of Santa Clara, it offers easy access to I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway and close to both the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Developed by a celebrated architectural and design team, our contemporary 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 sq ft.  

Our suites are complete and just need your loved one’s personal furnishing and mementos to make it feel like home. Safety features include emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Also to promote residents’ independence our community is designed with clear wayfinding and open, inviting common areas.  

Once a family decides on MorningStar at West Valley, we set out to get to know as much as we can about the person. To aid us in this effort, we use a supportive tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me” to aid us in creating the most effective and compassionate personalized care. As dementia care specialists, our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

While we may be new to the area (we expect to open in the third quarter of 2022), we operate several dozen other senior living communities throughout the Western U.S. In addition MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of San Jose is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2023. We take tremendous pride in the fact that we have earned the trust of our residents, their families and the communities in which we reside. 

Please see our website to learn more about our memory care facility, our approach to Alzheimer’s care, and our comprehensive services and amenities. We look forward to answering all of your questions and can help you reserve a select suite.

What Sets MorningStar Communities Apart from Other Senior Housing

If you live in or around the Denver area, chances are you will have heard of one of our MorningStar senior living communities. We are proud of the reputation our homes have earned with residents and their families alike and are currently in the process of building the new MorningStar at Observatory Park in South Denver, due to open to residents in late 2022. 

MorningStar communities are trusted for their excellence–and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Our dedicated team understands the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing our time and talents in service to others; and recognize the professional and personal satisfaction this calling brings.  

Our company was started in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO, who wished to “cast a new light” on senior living by creating senior housing that felt like his grandmother’s house –true homes filled with light, love and compassion. To accomplish this, we are inspired and empowered by our mission to: 

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships 

• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals

• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well  

MorningStar at Observatory Park offers 60 assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs and activities. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our 2nd floor Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents. 

We are conveniently located in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver, home to mature trees, lovely gardens, eclectic eateries, local coffee shops and a brewery. Observatory Park is just a few blocks down the street and we are in close proximity to two major hospitals, Porter Adventist Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center. Visit our website to learn more about our new community as well as our commitment to serving seniors, the local community, and to others across the globe. Reserve your select suite today, and ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Is it Time to Start Thinking about Assisted Living?

For many seniors, there comes a time when they feel they are not living life on their own terms, and routine, day-to-day activities start becoming more, and more difficult. To determine if assisted living is the right choice for a parent or spouse, experts say you need to consider the amount of care they require on a daily basis. If it is more personal care than he/she can get (or afford) with in-home services or in an Independent Living community, yet doesn’t need 24-hour medical care and supervision, assisted living is the ideal option.  

People often confuse assisted living with nursing homes; however, they are not the same thing. Nursing homes provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care while assisted living provides help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enhance residents’ quality of life within a residential setting.

While some families may experience sticker shock when first looking into the cost of assisted living, you need to consider everything it includes. For example the MorningStar at Observatory Park Assisted Living & Memory Care community’s monthly fee includes property taxes, utilities, security system, and the cost of maintenance inside and out. Daily meals are included in the fee as is housekeeping, scheduled transportation and an array of activities, entertainment and outings. 

At MorningStar, we like to think of assisted living as providing seniors “a little help from friends” to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Our new, contemporary community is in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area and offers 60 assisted living suites from studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Onsite amenities include a full salon, bistro, club rooms, art studio, fitness center and more. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood has 23 suites. 

To learn more about our beautiful community, please visit our website. While you are there be sure to ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

New Senior Living in the Iconic Observatory Park Area

MorningStar Senior Living is proud to announce a contemporary new senior living community in South Denver’s Observatory Park area. MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Observatory Park is a 85,000-square-foot community designed from the ground up to promote residents’ independence with a range of care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and wellness programs. 

Our 5-story building will offer 60 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Each is equipped with high-end finishes, kitchenettes, lightening and wall-to-wall carpeting. With our residents’ safety in mind, rooms have emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. 

MorningStar’s luxury amenities include a full salon, bistro, club rooms, art studio, fitness center and more. A five-star, all-day dining service in our main dining room or private dining area for intimate dinners, allows residents to dine at their leisure. Also our team of care managers competently and compassionately assist residents with the ADLs (activities of daily living) to promote their best quality of life.  

Our Signature Wellness activities are designed to keep residents as busy as they like with something for everyone (if we don’t have a class or club you are interested in, we encourage you to start one). Movie nights, trivia and board games, craft projects, physical fitness classes and a Bocce Ball court keep the fun and laughter coming.  

For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss, our second floor Reflections Neighborhood provides the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve our most tender residents’ dignity and self-worth. Our 23 suites are available in studio and one-bedroom floor plans, and are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Residents’ independence is encouraged through clear wayfinding and safe, inviting common areas.

We expect to open to residents in late 2022 and invite you to reserve your select suite. Also please ask us about our Founders Club Specials.

Is Dementia Always Alzheimer’s?

While most of us have heard of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and senility, we may still be confused wondering if they are all the same thing or different diseases. Doctors explain the terms are often used interchangeably but do have different meanings. Dementia describes a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms that impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities independently. While not an actual disease, the symptoms include memory loss, and difficulty with thinking clearly, making decisions and in some cases, controlling emotions. Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases or conditions.

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease and one form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. The disease was formally recognized in 1906 and named after the German physician, Aloïs Alzheimer, who first described it. Recent advances in medicine have found the brain can show signs of the disease years before the person experiences any symptoms. 

Dementia is typically irreversible but there are some conditions that can cause symptoms of the disease. These include a vitamin deficiency, underactive thyroid gland, depression or stress; and when treated, can reverse the condition. Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease, may also cause symptoms of dementia as can AIDS, Lyme disease and stroke. 

Senility is another term used to describe the type of memory deterioration associated with the elderly. Experts explain there are two major types of senile dementia: “those due to generalized “atrophy” (Alzheimer’s-type dementia) and those due to vascular problems (mainly, strokes).” Symptoms of senility include a decline in cognitive abilities such as problems recalling information and thinking clearly; and Alzheimer’s is the most common form. 

MorningStar of North Ridge provides comprehensive memory care in Albuquerque, NM. Our services, wellness programs and activities support residents’ to provide the best quality of life possible. Our approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Please visit our website for contact information, pricing and availability on trusted Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque. 

Source: alzinfo.org/understand-alzheimers/dementia-vs-alzheimers/

Is it a “Senior Moment” or a Sign of Something More Serious?

Experts report “at least half of those over age 65 say they are more forgetful than they were when they were younger, experiencing ‘senior moments’ about things like where they put things or recalling somebody’s name.” While several studies show as many as 40 percent of seniors suffer from some level of memory loss, this doesn’t necessarily mean Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. 

Doctors say we need to remember Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and there are some characteristics which separate age-related memory loss from dementia. One example is forgetting how to program your remote control or operate a piece of machinery after not doing it for a while. They stress this is common and typically not a cause for concern but forgetting how to get home or perform routine tasks may be a sign of a bigger problem.

Another symptom of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases is forgetting what an object is used for or what it is. Someone with Alzheimer’s can forget they wear glasses or not recognize the glasses as their own. The same goes for forgetting names. A common problem is to forget a person’s name but a more serious problem is to use the wrong word to describe something or to forget the name completely.

Falls in the elderly can have deadly consequences so it is important to know another symptom of Alzheimer’s is balance problems. Even in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, falls can be common and as the disease progresses generally get worse.

However Dr. Barry Reisberg, director of the Fisher Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Resources Program at New York University Langone Medical Center, explains research indicates feeling you are forgetful may be cause for concern. In one study, findings show “seniors with subjective memory complaints are, over many years, 4.5 times more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia than those who do not have such memory complaints.” This is why it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.

At the MorningStar of North Ridge, we are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our holistic memory care includes meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more as well as a physical environment designed to allow residents the freedom to safely move around. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging path. Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy regarding Alzheimer’s care. 

Source: 

alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/just-forgetful-or-is-it-dementia/?gclid=Cj0KCQiApL2QBhC8ARIsAGMm-KEk1I99B9bphbuYe_W8LqLHK6lECmCCc7GF1Sm33W-6HABic8bpQQkaAkGkEALw_wcB