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

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it is extremely difficult not only for the individual but the entire family. As it generally comes after the person as well as their family and friends have noticed a marked change in the individual, it is tough to hear but not always a huge surprise. Now the question becomes “what next?”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers families guidance with a list of helpful informative and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Check if they have local chapters where you can get in-person support, meet others in your same situation, and get involved in fundraising activities. You can additionally reach out to local community centers and hospitals to find out if they have Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

NIA reminds families to keep up with regular medical checkups as they are important for a person with Alzheimer’s and should include their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Also, ask your medical team if there is a memory disorder clinic nearby. 

Another suggestion is to plan ahead both financially and for long-term care while the person can still have some valuable input. Finally, experts say to make sure you get the proper help to ensure the person’s wellbeing and safety. 

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

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional memory care in Albuquerque.

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

What is the Difference between Memory Care & Assisted Living?

If an elderly parent or another loved one is in need of more care than they can get living at home, you may have started thinking about senior living. The US Department of Human Health & Services estimates, “About 70% of adults older than 65 will need long-term care at some point in their lives.” Moreover many who require senior care have some type of cognitive decline or memory loss. The World Health Organization reports 55 million people worldwide have dementia and nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year. 

Before you begin the search for senior care, it is important to know the difference between assisted living and memory care. One of the top differences is the amount of attention given to memory care residents. While assisted living typically offers 24/7 emergency alert systems and help with the ADLs, memory care also offers specialized therapies for those with memory loss. 

Wellness programs at assisted living are entertaining, meaningful programs with opportunities to socialize, grow and contribute. Memory care facilities provide purposeful programs and therapies designed to help calm or stimulate residents as situations warrant. Personalized care plans compassionately address specialized needs including managing aggressive behaviors or wandering.  

The physical environment in memory care includes more precautions to safeguard the individual. These include things like locked entrances equipped with alarms systems and warning signals if someone exists. The layout of the facility typically offers clear wayfinding to help residents navigate their environment and decrease confusion and agitation. 

Memory care facilities have a higher staff to resident ratio to enable them to provide more attentive care throughout the day as well as hands-on assistance with meals and the ADLs. In addition staff are generally trained in dementia care in order to have a better understanding of the disease.    

The new MorningStar at West Valley is designed from the ground up to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our holistic approach to memory care includes a gentle flow of purposeful activities leveraging the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment. We are conveniently located to the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Contact us to reserve a select suite, we will open to residents in winter 2022. Also ask about our starting rate of $8,000/month, all inclusive.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/assisted-living-vs-memory-care

Do You Need to be Readmitted to the Hospital? Know the Signs

According to statistics, the percent of patients readmitted to the hospital in the US within 30 days after being discharged was 14 percent in 2015. Common causes of readmission include pneumonia, heart failure/cardiovascular disease, and COPD/pulmonary disease. 

The warning signs it is time to go back to the hospital are difficulty breathing, chest pains, spiking fever, extreme nausea or vomiting, confusion or disorientation, worsening fatigue or weakness, or severe pain that cannot be relieved. For surgical patients, you should be told what constitutes a normal recovery and the complications to watch out for that may require a return to the hospital. Dr. Catherine MacLean, chief value medical officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, says patients should have a pretty low threshold as to when it is time to reach out to healthcare providers regarding problems. 

At discharge, patients are often given new prescriptions to fill, along with other instructions such as hydration, physical therapy and diet recommendations; and patients must be vigilant following these orders. If a person doesn’t respond to these treatments or medications as hoped, they may need to be readmitted to the hospital. 

It should not be surprising that the elderly are among the group more often readmitted to the hospital. Miscommunication regarding discharge orders is another common reason. One example is the person goes into the hospital taking certain medications and goes home with new prescriptions. Problems can occur if the patient takes both the old medications and the new ones when the doctor’s intention was to only take the new meds. This is why it is important to communicate with your team before your discharge and be clear on your care.  

The new MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living and memory care community is designed to allow residents to live life as independently as possible. We offer 60 assisted living suites and 23 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. While new to the DU neighborhood, MorningStar has dozens of retirement communities around the Western US including several around Denver. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information and to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We will open to residents in winter 2022.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/signs-you-should-be-readmitted-to-the-hospital

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Have trouble remembering to eat or drink

• Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately

• Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual

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

• Leave the stove on after preparing food

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

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

New Technology Helps Seniors Live Fuller Lives

The US Census Bureau shows by 2030 as many as one in five Americans will be 65 years or older, and by the mid-30s, there will be slightly more people over 65 than people 18 years or younger. Our increasingly older population is due to better health care enabling people to live longer. Scientific advancements should also help people maintain better cognitive health.

The large population of seniors has led to tech companies addressing their various needs with new devices designed to make them more independent and live fuller lives. Problems like medication management are being addressed by smart medication management systems that can handle up to as many as ten different medications. Reminders are connected to WI-FI and can even go to family members if the person misses a dose.

COVID-19 taught us the advantages of Telemedicine and is ideal even now for those who may have mobility issues or no longer drive. Video systems like Zoom, Skype or Facebook allow seniors to stay connected to loved ones face-to-face. Really, is nothing better than having a video chat with the grandkids or a friend who lives a distance away? Another technological advancement protecting the safety of an elderly loved one is fall detector systems. Devices are equipped with sensors to detect a fall even without the person pressing the alert button. 

To improve your cognitive health, how about playing a video game? One company out of the University of California-San Francisco called Neuroscape is building a bridge between neuroscience and consumer-friendly technologies. The games require multitasking as well as cognitive functions associated with multitasking. Originally they were designed for young people with ADHD but researchers found benefits for older adults with depression, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Experts explain while these new technologies can help seniors live fuller more independent lives, this is only a start. New innovations are expected in the coming years.   

The MorningStar at West Valley offers memory care San Jose families can count on. Our 31,801 square-foot, 2-story community opens this winter and is devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Located in West San Jose, we offer easy access to I-280 and San Tomas Expressway as well as quality medical facilities like the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. We encourage you to ask about savings for early depositors. 

Source: 

betteraging.com/aging-technology/the-silver-tsunami-leads-to-development-of-tech-tools-to-support-seniors/

What is Sleep Apnea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Separating Fact from Fiction Regarding our Brains

Neuroscientist, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett is schooling people on how our brains actually work, and at the same time, dispels many myths surrounding them. Along with being a distinguished professor of psychology at Northeastern University, with appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, she is the author of several books including Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain.   

One of the things we have heard that is incorrect is that one side of our brain controls creative thinking and the other side controls quantitative and analytical thinking. Dr. Barrett explains almost all of our cognitive actions are controlled by the entire brain. While the cerebral cortex is the central part of the brain and consists of two hemispheres, both sides are intricately connected to other parts of the brain. Language is one of the few cognitive skills stronger in the left hemisphere in most individuals but not in all cases. 

Another myth we hear about our brains is cortisol is a “stress” hormone and serotonin is a “happy” hormone; but research shows hormones do not have a specific purpose but rather the chemicals work together. “Cortisol boosts the amount of glucose in your bloodstream to provide a quick burst of energy for your cells when your brain predicts the need, whether you feel stressed or not.” Serotonin’s function in the brain helps “other neurons pass information back and forth as they create your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and actions.”

While we may think of our brains as filing cabinets that efficiently store memories, the truth is our brains ``reassemble” memories each time we bring them up. They are reconstructed using differ neurons to assemble the memory, which is why eyewitness testimonies so often differ in a later memory of the event.  Another common falsehood is we only use about 10 percent of our brain. However advanced brain imaging shows even during sleep; our entire brain is in use.  

The new MorningStar at West Valley memory care facility offers personalized, holistic care to individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Please visit our website to learn about our background, our mission statement and dedication to dementia care. We open to residents in winter 2022 and encourage you to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.  

Source: sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/7-and-a-half-myths-about-your-brain/

Safely Tips for the Use of Prescription Drugs

It may surprise you to know that according to the Department of Health and Human Services, each year fifty-five percent of seniors are non-compliant with prescription drug orders and do not take medication as prescribed by their doctors. It is a serious problem as approximately 200,000 older adults are hospitalized annually due to adverse drug reactions. 

Medical professionals say there are steps seniors and those who care for an elderly loved one can do to help lessen the problem. To start with, take medications as prescribed including the correct dosage and time, with or without food, and never crush a pill into a powder. Especially if you see multiple doctors, be sure to always bring a list and dosage of all medications you are taking including over-the-counter and herbal supplements. 

Experts say using the same pharmacy can help reduce drug interactions, and to be sure to read the warnings regarding adverse reactions. Periodically review your prescriptions with your doctors to make sure you are taking the right dosage and still need the medications. To see if any meds you take have a warning for usage in the elderly, check the American Geriatric Society’s “2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults.” It is also recommended you properly dispose of older medications and drugs you no longer take.  

If you are on medications to treat diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to continue to test your glucose level and BP numbers. Other drugs may be prescribed with the understanding you will have your blood tested periodically and it is important to follow through as too high or too little of a dosage can cause problems.   

The Denver area is home to several MorningStar Senior Living retirement communities and this winter will add another one. The new MorningStar at Observatory Park senior living community is in the desirable South Denver neighborhood and offers assisted living and memory care. We are honored to provide residents comprehensive care and hospitality services, 5-Star dining service, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities to enhance quality of life. Visit our website to reserve your select suite today, and ask about our Founders Club Savings.

Source: 

seniorsafetyreviews.com/13-medication-safety-tips/

How to Improve Focus & Concentration

Do you find your mind wandering when you try to do something? Are you easily distracted? If you are an older adult, you may find it happening more often than it did when you were young.  Dr. Kirk Daffner, a neurologist and director of the Center for Brain/Mind Medicine at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital, explains, "Older people tend to have more difficulty filtering out stimuli that are not relevant to the task at hand."

A recent study from the University of California discovered the loss of executive function and ability to focus is related to the locus coeruleus, a region of the brain stem connected to other brain regions. One of its purposes is to help focus attention during times of stress or excitement; and is also an area where researchers have found early signs of tau tangles and amyloids, a hallmark of cognitive decline. 

The good news is scientists say there are things seniors can do to improve concentration such as regularly engaging in physical exercise and activities that stimulate cognitive abilities. Another tip is to quit trying to “multitask.” If you are working amidst distractions like a TV, turn it off. When your task includes using a computer, don’t go on the Internet. Take frequent breaks like grabbing a quick snack or walking around the block. 

Learning something new is a good way to stimulate your brain. Choose something you are interested in but that won’t overwhelm you. Learning to play an instrument or taking a cooking class can be both stimulating as well as relaxing.  

Practicing mindfulness or meditation a few minutes a day is yet another way to improve concentration. Additionally although coffee is a stimulant, too much caffeine can cause agitation and the loss of focus. Watch your sugar intake as it causes drops in blood sugar levels. Get more sleep and try to connect with nature.  

MorningStar at West Valley is completing the finishing touches to our contemporary memory care facility. Opening to residents this winter, our community provides all-inclusive, compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Unlike many other dementia care communities, we are designed from the ground up to accommodate residents’ every need. We encourage you to reserve a select suite today. Also ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.  

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/tips-to-improve-concentration

If You Suspect it’s Dementia, Please See Your Doctor

If you or a loved one is experiencing troubling memory problems, it is important to see your healthcare provider. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or several other dementia-related diseases, there are steps you can take to mitigate or delay the onset of the disease. 

The Alzheimer’s Association explains, “Physicians and other medical professionals are a central part of the care team of a person living with dementia. Along with other members — which may include family, friends or others — they work to provide support throughout the course of the disease.” Therefore one of the best ways to ensure optimal care is to honestly communicate with your physician.  

To establish a good relationship with the doctor, a person or family member should take some time to prepare for the visit. Helpful tips from the Alzheimer’s Association include:

• Document any changes in your health, including your mood, memory and behaviors.

• Make a note of any changes you’ve noticed since your last appointment.

• Create a list of current prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.

• Write down any vitamins or supplements you’ve added to your medication regimen.

• Make a list of questions you want to ask.

Write down questions you have beforehand, make sure you don’t forget them, and don’t be reluctant to ask questions if you don’t understand something. The Alzheimer’s Association National Early-Stage Advisory Group, made up of men and women in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, put together a list of questions to help others make the most out of a doctor’s visit. Questions range from asking about the type of tests used to make a diagnosis, what to expect from the disease, and what type of treatments may be used. When seeing a specialist, ask how familiar they are in caring for patients with Alzheimer’s. 

At the new MorningStar at Observatory Park, we offer 60 assisted living suites and 23 suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. If the MorningStar name sounds familiar, we operate several dozen retirement communities across the Western US including several communities around Denver. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information; and ask about our Founders Club Specials. We will open to residents in winter 2022.

Source: alz.org/media/documents/alzheimers-dementia-communicating-doctor-health-care-pro-ts.pdf

Why Choose Senior Living?

If you still think senior living is an “old person’s home,” you could not be more mistaken. Today’s retirement communities are a far cry from old-fashioned facilities like nursing homes, and offer seniors a vibrant lifestyle of wellness, community and well-being. As a resident, you have opportunities to grow, learn and contribute. 

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) had their beginnings decades ago as “nursing homes,” and in a time when there were few other options for senior care. Today SNF typically focuses on short-term rehab including helping patients discharged from the hospital after surgery or illness. SNF staff include RNs and CNAs, and specialize in serving residents in fragile and declining health. 

Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) are designed to assist residents 62 years and older with the activities of daily living (ADLs) within a residential setting. In addition to the ADLs, residents are provided with opportunities for life-long learning with meaningful life-enrichment programs, resort-style amenities, hospitality services and more. Some assisted living communities also provide for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia with a distinct, secure neighborhood designed for their special needs.  

Assisted living communities like the new MorningStar at Observatory Park offer residents security and peace-of-mind with 24/7 care managers, emergency call systems, predictable budgeting and a community designed with their safety and comfort in mind. Daily meals, transportation services and inviting common areas inside and out make for relaxing, enjoyable retirement years.  

MorningStar at Observatory Park is located in the South Denver’s Observatory Park area. Our contemporary 85,000-square-foot, 5-story community is designed for residents every need; and offers 60 assisted living suites in a choice of studio, and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Reflections Neighborhood encompasses the entire second floor and is dedicated to caring for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss. We open to residents in winter 2022 and invite you to visit our website today to reserve your select suite; and be sure to ask us about our Founders Club Savings. For updates regarding our community and special events, connect with us on Facebook.

Tips to Help Manage MCI

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

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

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

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

Personalized Gifts for a Loved One with Dementia

While the holidays are still a couple of months away, it isn’t too early to start thinking about how to get a loved one with dementia, especially if you want to personalize it. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral services, explains, finding the best gift for dementia patients may seem challenging as it is difficult to know what they’re experiencing, picking a gift can actually be extremely fun and rewarding — especially if you know what to look for.

They suggest taking a few minutes to think about the things the person used to enjoy, keeping in mind their past career, hobbies and stage of dementia. It is best to keep gifts simple, useful, and tailored to their personal likes and capabilities.

Ideas include a single gift or a yearly subscription for care packages filled with things your loved one would enjoy. This could include natural care products like scented soaps, shampoos, body lotions and scrubs. If a parent is in a memory care facility, a large basket of specialty foods, fruits or sweets to share with their caregivers is sure to be a hit. Monthly baskets from a local bakery or flower shop can spread the joy over time and remind the person you are thinking of them.  

Smartly-designed dementia board games are not only a fun way to spend time together but can help improve your loved one’s dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and mental strength. Personalized puzzles or memory card games using pictures of the grandkids can be fun for the whole family. PicLink is another game for those with cognitive and memory impairment and is based upon exercises shown to assist with memory.  

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we invite you to take a look at West San Jose’s newest memory care facility, MorningStar at West Valley. Opening to residents this winter, we encourage you to reserve a select suite for your loved one and ask about savings for early depositors.

Be Your Healthiest as We Approach Fall and Winter

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Correlation between Hearing Loss and Alzheimer’s Disease

According to the Medical News Today website, studies find hearing loss may contribute to social isolation, lower quality of life, disability, depression, and dementia. This can be especially problematic for people aged 80 years and older, who tend to have more advanced hearing losses. 

In 2015, researchers reported on a 25-year study, which focused on a link between hearing loss and dementia. At the start of the study, the 3,670 participants were 65 years or older and followed for over 25 years. Using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to measure cognitive decline, researchers say there appeared to be a correlation between self-reported hearing loss and cognitive decline. However, participants who used hearing aids did not show a significant cognitive decline, suggesting the use of hearing aids may offer a protective effect.

Experts say hearing loss may adversely impact a person’s ability to socialize as they miss out on vital verbal and emotional information that may directly impair brain structure and function. Or it could be that the person uses more energy to make sense of what they hear; and reduces the energy they have left for memory, language processing and attention.

It is recommended at age 60, all adults get a baseline hearing test and be rechecked every couple of years, regardless of whether they experience symptoms. John Hopkins Medicine reports one in 3 adults over age 65 has hearing loss, but due to a gradual change in their hearing, they may not be aware of it.  

Symptoms of age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, include the speech of others sounding muffled or slurred; high-pitched sounds, such as "s" or "th" being hard to distinguish; and having difficulty understanding conversation, especially if there is background noise. The person may notice men’s voices are easier to hear than women’s, because it is lower-pitched. 

MorningStar at West Valley is San Jose’s newest memory care facility designed to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. New residents receive personalized service plans to address special needs and provide a gentle flow of purposeful activities. We are open to residents this winter and can help you reserve a select suite for your loved one. Also ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/presbycusis

Pet Ownership can Even Increase a Senior’s Longevity

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, pets can “increase opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities, contribute to better cognitive function in older adults, and provide more opportunities to socialize." They explain the health benefits of pet ownership are linked to lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Studies show pets contribute to healthy aging and even longer life by positively influencing factors that contribute to longevity, such as reducing stress, facilitating resilience against cardiovascular disease, and connecting to a network of social support.

Experts caution against the elderly getting a puppy as they need a lot of care including being housebroken and can be destructive. Adopting an adult cat or dog is generally a better choice. Small dogs like Shih Tzus, pugs, poodles, corgis and French bulldogs are some of the best breeds for seniors.  

Cats are lower maintenance than dogs and typically have less medical issues. They are happy spending time indoors and provide lots of companionship. Less active breeds like Persians and Birmans are happy to curl up on their owners' laps. The American bobcat, American shorthair and the Australian mist are a few examples of some affectionate breeds that love being around people. 

South Denver’s newest senior living community MorningStar at Observatory Park is pet friendly as we recognize the tremendous ministry animals offer to all of us and do not expect residents to leave behind their furry, four-footed family member. However we ask you to contact us so we may assess an animal’s appropriateness for our community as we have some restrictions on breeds. We also require a one-time, non refundable pet fee. 

Our fashionable 5-story community is a few blocks from the iconic Observatory Park and has 60 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans. For those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, our Reflections Neighborhood and Alzheimers Care provides the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve the individual’s dignity and self-worth. We open to residents in late 2022 and look forward to helping you reserve a select suite today. Ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials.

Take it Easy When Starting an Exercise Routine

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the Risk for Developing Alzheimer’s?

The Mayo Clinic reports approximately 5.8 million people in the US age 65 and older live with Alzheimer's disease. Of those, 80% are aged 75 or older. Of the approximately 50 million people worldwide with dementia, it is estimated 60% to 70% of them have Alzheimer's disease.

The risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as we age. One study reports annually there were four new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 65 to 74, 32 new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 75 to 84, and 76 new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 85 and older. The Mayo Clinic states if you have a direct family member such as a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s you are at a higher risk. However, even though research has identified rare changes (mutations) in three genes that virtually guarantee a person who inherits one of them will develop Alzheimer's; these mutations account for less than 1% of people with Alzheimer's disease.

Women are at a higher risk than men but it could be because they live longer. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) puts a person at a higher risk and when the primary deficit is memory, the person is likely to transition to Alzheimer's disease. Other risk factors include those who have experienced head trauma, are routinely exposed to poor air quality and consume alcohol excessively. Lifestyle habits including an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise as well as failing to manage health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. 

West San Jose’s newest community, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley offers a holistic approach to memory care. Residents receive Personalized Service Plans as well as the people, programs, and activities to ensure their comfort and well-being. Our memory care facility offers 42 suites in a choice of studio or companion suites. We are scheduled to open this winter and invite you to visit our website to reserve a select suite; and ask about our Founders Club Savings for early depositors.  

Source: 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447

Need Trusted Memory Care for a Loved One?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: 

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

MorningStar at Silver Lake’s Unique Approach to Senior Living

MorningStar at Silver Lake in Everett, WA is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which takes a unique, holistic approach to retirement communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. 

Our company has thrived and expanded since its conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living. From there our mission statement reads: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. 

Even the name MorningStar has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a name that spoke to the passion I have to bring loving care to seniors.” The name—MorningStar—comes from a verse where Jesus said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star” (Revelation 22:16).

At the MorningStar at Silver Lake community, we offer independent living and assisted living apartments in a range of floor plans and configurations. Recently renovated, our amenities include all-day, restaurant-style dining; massage/therapy room; bistro; libraries; billiards & game room; fitness center; scheduled transportation; and more. For assisted living residents, services include 24-hour care managers, full-time licensed nurses (on call 24/7), electronic health records, medication management, and more. 

As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax and play in beautiful surroundings. Please visit our website for information about the finest senior housing Everett, WA has to offer. Browse through our online pictures and then use our quick links to set up a tour to see our home firsthand. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar’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 offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake.