What to Expect from the Moving-in Experience

Excitement is growing as MorningStar at West Valley puts on the finishing touches to our new memory care facility. Opening to residents this winter, our community is committed to providing all-inclusive, compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Moreover, unlike many memory care communities, we are designed from the ground up to accommodate our most tender residents’ every need.   

As one of several dozen MorningStar communities across the Western US, we understand moving a loved one with dementia to memory care is a major lifestyle transition, and are ready to help in whatever way we can. We recognize, just as each individual is unique, so is their moving process.     

Our MorningStar team approaches the move-in to our alzheimers home with great sensitivity as we nurture a relationship with each new resident along with their family. Once a family decides on MorningStar, our moving-in process starts in earnest as we secure vital information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move including a medical assessment and physician’s plan of care. 

To make your loved one feel more comfortable in their new surroundings; we suggest furnishing their suite with familiar objects such as a favorite easy chair, pictures of family and friends, and decorations and mementoes. If you like; we can recommend moving companies experienced in senior transitions, and have furniture carts and dollies to borrow, if needed.

Experts caution families to allow at least 30 days for the person to adapt to their new surroundings. The Mayo Clinic says to visit often and encourage friends and family to do the same as the extra attention can make the new place feel like home.    

As MorningStar at West Valley prepares to open, we encourage you to ask about our Founders Club Specials for early depositors (deadline 11/15/22). This includes $1,500 toward moving expenses, $1,000 off our community fee, first choice of preferred suites and more. Our location offers easy access to I-280 and San Tomas Expressway as well as the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital.

Personality Changes and Other Behaviors Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease can exhibit a variety of behaviors and personality changes, of which some can be quite challenging to deal with and even affect the person’s safety. Changes in your parents or spouse can include irritability, anger, anxiety and other distressing behaviors like wandering or forgetting to turn off the stove.  

Dementia care experts say there are techniques to help deal with these feelings, and it may include adjusting your own attitude toward the changes a person is experiencing. Examples include caregivers over estimating the person’s abilities and expecting more from them then they feel capable of doing. This can cause angry outbursts often motivated by frustration. Experts remind caregivers to remember the person’s abilities are changing and suggest shifting your expectations to fit the new norm. 

Another common problem many suffer from Alzheimer’s is depression. Cindy Steele, RN, nurse scholar for Copper Ridge, a residential care community in Utah, says 40 percent of people with AD develop depression due to a neurochemical imbalance in the brain. Anxiety disorders and delusions are also common. In many cases, the person’s doctor can help identify the imbalances and prescribe medications to help relieve these troubling symptoms.  

Negative behaviors can additionally be caused by physical problems such as a headache, illness or fatigue, which the person is unable to communicate. Over-stimulating environments, being too cold or too hot are other reasons for distress or irritability. Experts say caregivers need to try and stay calm and speak directly to the person using short, easily understood sentences. Avoid sounding condescending.      

At Morningstar at North Ridge, a memory care community in Albuquerque, we offer individualized care of those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our unique approach to memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at North Ridge represents the very best in memory 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 our exceptional community in Albuquerque.

Foods to Help Protect Your Brain Health

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Causes of Fall Allergies

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

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

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

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

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

Source: 

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

Are You Experiencing Caregiver Burnout?

Being a caregiver for an elderly parent or another loved one can be stressful and over time your duties can increase to a point where it is more than you can handle. For your wellbeing and that of your parent’s, it is probably time to make a change. Today’s senior living communities offer a range of options including assisted living, designed to provide help with the ADLs (activities of daily living). This level of care allows the senior to regain their sense of independence; and for you, your time with mom or dad goes back to just enjoying being together.   

Senior living communities like MorningStar at Silver Lake in Everett, WA offer assisted living residents much more than just comprehensive physical care. Residents enjoy a whole range of amenities and services as well as the opportunity to make new friends.

At MorningStar, once the family decides to entrust us with the care of their loved one, we do a thorough evaluation of the person's medical history, background and personal preferences. Then we create a care plan approved by you and your parents, which is also routinely updated to address any changes in care. Mom or dad will receive access to a full-time licensed nurse and a caring, responsive 24-hour staff. We also offer medication management services.

MorningStar’s stylish senior housing comes in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Amenities include a fitness center, bistro, billiards & game room, libraries, raised garden beds, theatre/chapel, concierge services and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. 

Other services include scheduled transportation and onsite therapeutic services such as physical therapy and occupational therapy.  Weekly housekeeping and daily trash removal keeps mom or dad’s suite spotless, and linen and laundry services keep life simple. A five-star meal service ensures your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need. For more information on the finest assisted living in Everett please visit our website. 

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

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.

One of Denver’s Finest Retirement Communities Opens this Winter

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

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

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

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

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.

Maintain and Enhance Your Memory with Healthy Habits

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Garden is a Gratifying Pastime for Many Seniors

A garden full of beautiful flowers and/or home-grown vegetables is a gratifying pastime for many seniors. Not only does it offer beauty and wholesome, nutritional food for you and those you share your bounty with, but a healthier lifestyle. 

Experts say getting outside to work in the garden is a wonderful way to get exercise and enjoy nature as well as to get a dose of vitamin D. They warn to protect your exposed skin with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, wear light, loose clothing, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and don’t overdo it, and avoid working outside during the heat of the day. Gardening is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress and to forget about your problems, at least for a while. Overall, even a few hours a week doing something as enjoyable as gardening can strengthen muscles, improve mobility and increase flexibility.  

Growing tomatoes and lettuce or starting an herb garden is a great place for beginners to start and are appropriate plants for container gardening. For flowers, stick to those suitable for your region. Planning your garden is a big part of the fun and involves critical thinking in deciding what to plant and how to care for it.  In fact, studies show that with the physical aspect of gardening and the critical thinking skills involved in planning it, you may lessen your chance of getting Alzheimer's disease. 

Another often overlooked benefit of gardening is the social aspect. While working in your garden may be a solitary activity, gardeners enjoy getting together in the forms of clubs, visiting their local farmers market, nursery trips, or joining a community garden project.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake offers stylish independent living and assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans. To ensure the comfort and wellbeing of residents, we offer resort-style amenities and services with beautiful common areas including a fitness center, bistro, theater, restaurant-style dining, large patio garden and raised garden beds. Please visit our website for more information about outstanding senior housing in Everett, WA.

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

The Many Ways Socializing Improves Seniors’ Health

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the Area’s Newest Senior Living Community

Do you worry about your parent’s ability to live independently and are concerned a change in their health could necessitate a move to assisted living sometime in the near future? If so, now is the time to start making plans and what could be better than looking at a brand new community that already has a reputation for excellence. 

While new to the area, MorningStar of San Jose is part of MorningStar Senior Living, a company with several dozen retirement communities across the Western US. Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger, began the company on a basic, but profound truth: to honor God in all aspects of our business practices and relationships, which transcends to a superior quality of life for MorningStar’s residents. Our basic principles include recognizing the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon these truths daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. 

MorningStar of San Jose’s 69 assisted living suites provide a supportive environment in which residents can maintain their independence and get back to living life to the fullest. Senior care includes help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication management and other third-party service providers.  

For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers 34 memory care suites. Our holistic approach includes Montessori-based therapies, which leverage the power of music, dance, and arts and crafts to connect with and nurture the individual. 

MorningStar of San Jose’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our prime location in San Jose puts us close to Saratoga, Los Gatos and Cupertino; and we are a short drive to the ocean, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and nearby vineyards. Contact us to learn more about availability at the finest assisted living and memory care San Jose offers and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023

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. 

Your Loved One with Alzheimer’s Won’t Battle This Alone

Seniors with Alzheimer's or other dementia-related illnesses often live alone during the early stages of the disease. As the condition progresses, however, changes in thinking may reduce your loved one’s ability to make appropriate decisions about self-care and safety. Unsupervised wandering and inadequate diet are at a higher risk when your loved one is living alone with dementia. They may struggle to manage personal hygiene and household tasks. If your parent or loved one is dealing with progressive dementia and forgetfulness, you are probably considering alternative living arrangements to keep them safe.

Memory care facilities that specialize in alzheimers care are quite modernized now. Offering an emphasis on comfort, safety, and community, MorningStar at West Valley deviates from one’s preconceived notions of ‘nursing homes.’ MorningStar’s approach to Memory Care incorporates Montessori-based therapies. We focus on creating individualized care plans with the help of thorough interviews and assessments of each prospective senior 

to address our residents' unique and varying needs. 

Anxiety over their loved one experiencing improper health care and medical supervision is one of the biggest fears of family members. Memory care residents at MorningStar at West Valley receive daily health monitoring by our 24/7 care staff, licensed nurses, and more supportive third-party service providers. MorningStar functions under a “directed level of care." This is a type of Assisted Living license that permits us to care for residents who, due to compromised cognitive ability, cannot recognize danger and, therefore, cannot respond appropriately and/or cannot express their needs. MorningStar carries this license, enabling our trained staff to care for the memory-impaired within a secure environment.

If you worry about your loved one’s transition to dementia care leading to loneliness or seclusion, consider a memory care facility that emphasizes community involvement through architectural design and companion living. MorningStar at West Valley offers memory care suites that are available in studio and or companion configurations from 318 to 492 sq ft on two levels. Suites include emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. While a secure building, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding; safe and inviting common areas include a 2nd-floor sky terrace. 

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 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 at 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.

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 Magic of Animals for Seniors with Dementia

Spending time with pets and animals is shown to improve the quality of life for people, including seniors dealing with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Animals have a special way of lowering high feelings of stress and alleviating depression and anxiety. By playing with our pets and bonding with them, the human brain has been found to produce more hormones that calm and soothe us– like serotonin and oxytocin. Memory care facilities, like MorningStar at West Valley, have incorporated pet therapy as a unique therapeutic technique into one of their many regular care activities. For individuals living with dementia, animals have been shown to provide even more amazing benefits.

Animals always seem to be aware when someone needs special care or attention. According to research by BCM Psychiatry, “Animal Assisted Therapy improves a person's mental and physical health. In the area of mental health, it releases an automatic relaxation response, reduces the feeling of anxiety, contributes to the lowering of loneliness, and helps in the recall of memories.” Knowing this, MorningStar’s programmatic approach to dementia Care incorporates Montessori-based therapies and creates individualized service plans to address the needs of residents. Our gentle flow of purposeful activities such as animal therapy is incorporated to heal and comfort our memory care residents.

When our seniors interact with animals, they experience relief from agitation, restlessness, and disorientation. Animal therapy in memory care facilities can also be found to improve short-term memory, contribute to slightly higher physical activity, enhance eating habits, and reduce loneliness. Not only is this form of therapy included in our memory care routine, but we are pet-friendly in our assisted living facilities as we recognize the tremendous ministry animals are to all of us. 

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 the quality of life. 

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 alzheimers homes West San Jose, California has to offer.

Safety is Paramount in Morningstar’s Reflections Neighborhood

Family members and friends often find themselves in a tough position when their loved one’s occasional forgetfulness changes to more serious stages of memory loss which is often experienced with Alzheimer’s and dementia. When the time comes, we want our parents or loved ones to continue to feel happy in a safe, secure, and compassionate environment that resembles their own home and environment that they recognize and feel most comfortable within. 

Assisted living and retirement communities are arrangements people are often familiar with. However, these communities may fail to designate specific care and senior living environments to those specifically struggling with memory care that may require specialized attention and service to those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. At MorningStar senior living and retirement communities at Observatory Park, we offer a unique and specialized memory care neighborhood incorporated within our grounds called Reflections. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to meet the needs of our most tender residents. While we incorporate the following attributes in our everyday care for all our residents, Reflections provides compassionate, dedicated memory care specifically for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We train our entire team in MorningStar’s own Lavender Sky philosophy and programming of supported living for the memory impaired.

When considering the overall happiness of our assisted living residents, it is important to incorporate safety measures that do not infringe overly on independence but do remain mindful of specialty needs. The inside atmosphere of our Reflections Neighborhood is secure without being restrictive and still offers modern, luxury amenities that are standard to Morningstar. Our Observatory Park location, set to open in late 2022, offers a secure outdoor terrace to enjoy the beautiful weather and views of Colorado, as well as 24-hour care staff, medication management, and community rooms dedicated to life enrichment that are tailored to the needs of our memory care and assisted living residents.   

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar Assisted Living & Alzheimers 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.

MorningStar Memory Care Facility is Designed to Feel like Home

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

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

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

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

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar’s memory care facility. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission which discusses our exceptional senior living in West San Jose that seniors can rely on. 

MorningStar West Valley proudly provides the very best in dementia care and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes West San Jose, California has to offer.

MorningStar Stands Out from Other Retirement Communities in Life Changing Ways

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care is a senior living community that practices and encourages holistic living and treatment. This lifestyle and care method can be defined as care that targets all aspects of a person’s life beyond the physical. Regardless of the effects of age or illness, we know the essence of a person remains, and our job at MorningStar is to connect with and nurture that essence as we put energy toward finding more ways to celebrate life. In this way, holistic methods of self-exploration, such as art therapies, spirituality, and moral training are highly utilized at MorningStar. 

We take tremendous pride in creating an environment at MorningStar where excellence flourishes. Our days are busy serving others. But the way in which we conduct our work defines who we are as a brand. We are about taking the time to be radically relational—building warm, genuine connections, team member to team member, and team member to resident. We focus on building a community that bonds through art therapy techniques that are designed to promote memory cognition, fulfillment, and self-achievement. 

MorningStar has resolved to stay true to foundational truths, or Hallmarks that are rooted in Judeo-Christian ethics. In everything we do at MorningStar, we are grounded and guided by our mission. It’s our moral compass: honor God, value all seniors, invest generously. To deliver on our brand promises, it’s not enough to follow a mission rooted in heart. Radiance, which describes the culture of MorningStar, gives us a framework through which we nurture and empower our team to be People of Excellence with Servant’s Hearts.

Our team members are the heartbeat of MorningStar. Everyone on the team, regardless of role, takes a full day of culture training, a class we call Radiance. Dailey, we remind each other of our 12 Service Values, and how we are as much about hospitality as about healthcare.

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Observatory Park that is set to open in late 2022. 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.