A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Also Affects Family and Friends

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

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

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

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

Give simple, step-by-step instructions.

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

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

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

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

MorningStar at West Valley brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please visit our website for more information about exceptional memory care in San Jose.

Sources: 

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

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

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of San Jose

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

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

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

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

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

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in San Jose.

Stem Cell Therapy to Treat Osteoarthritis

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

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

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

If you are looking at retirement communities in Denver, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Observatory Park.  Opening soon, we will have 60 private stylish suites for assisted living and another 23 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our residents will enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all-day in our full-service dining room, luxury amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

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

Stretching Exercises Can Increase Flexibility, Improve Balance and Relieve Pain

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”  

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do for their independence. If you are unable to get up from a chair or out of bed each morning, you will need assistance. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. 

For luxury senior living, MorningStar of San Jose is sure to please.  Our new community provides residents with tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to help stay fit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. To learn more about our wide range of resort-style alzheimers care amenities and services, 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 exceptional senior living in San Jose.

A Holistic View of Health at MorningStar’s Community in South Denver

For outstanding assisted living, seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Observatory Park, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place.  By defining health and well-being holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit.   Together our Life Enrichment programs and Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care.  

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health.  These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.  

We are also proud that our assisted living residents’ benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).  In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand.  It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.   

Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director.  Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR trained staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7.  MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management. Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as other onsite therapeutic services.    

Please contact us or visit our website for more information. Our new senior living community includes 60 stylish suites for assisted living and another 23 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

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 living in Denver.

Finding the Best Care for a Loved One with Memory Impairment

Searching for a memory care facility for a loved one that suits the person’s needs as well as the family’s is challenging at best. Knowing the person is dependent on getting the level of care they need for both their wellbeing and safety makes choosing the right home essential. Experts say start by taking your time to think about your loved one’s needs including daily personal care required such as dressing, toileting, bathing, etc. as well as any on-going medical needs. 

Additionally, do they have mobility issues and use a wheelchair or a walker; or do they need assistance eating? If the person is known to wander, you will want a secure home to keep him or her safe including alarms on the doors. Another thing experts say is to let a home know if the person is prone to angry outbursts or other aggressive behaviors. 

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s needs, now consider if the homes you are looking at are equipped to handle those needs. Ask about living arrangements, dining service, and the level of daily help the person will receive. Moreover, does the home offer exercise programs and other meaningful activities? 

Now inquire about the homes’ experience with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, and the training the staff has in dementia care. What is the home’s philosophy of care and how do they approach difficult situations such as aggressive behaviors? Most of all does the staff seem caring and do residents appear to be content and well-looked after? 

MorningStar at West Valley is devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our residential home is geared toward residents’ needs from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care facility in San Jose. 
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about our new memory care facility in San Jose.

MorningStar at Observatory Park Provides Compassionate Memory Care

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

MorningStar's comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed from the ground up to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities connect with and nurture the individual, whatever the level of memory loss may be. 

Another thing that makes MorningStar at Observatory Park a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more our beautiful new assisted living and memory care community in Denver.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Denver

Discover Luxury Assisted Living in San Jose

If you have started the search for assisted living in San Jose, you will want to include MorningStar of San Jose. Our all-inclusive community offers an array of luxury amenities found at high-end resorts, while at the same time, all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Our beautiful community is now under construction and expected to open to residents in spring 2023.

MorningStar of San Jose will provide residents carefree retirement years by providing the care to help them maintain their independence, and the amenities and wellness programs to keep them engaged and looking forward to each new day. In addition, private suites are smartly-designed to maximize space and include a choice of floor plans and configurations to meet a variety of preferences and needs. All have high-end finishes and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.

Our all-day dining service means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule. A full salon makes it easy to get a new hairstyle, treat yourself to a pedicure or a manicure. Our fitness center along with specialized exercise classes will help you stay in shape; and MorningStar’s Life Enrichment room will be a busy place with something new always going on. The rooftop terrace (10,000+ square feet) will be a great place to relax with friends and enjoy the vibrant cityscapes and scenic mountain views.

MorningStar of San Jose’s goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other senior living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community will also provide memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

While we will not be open until the spring, we are staffed and ready to answer questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. Our website is loaded with information, and when you contact us, be sure to ask about our “Founders Club Specials.” 

MorningStar Senior Living takes pride in the reputation our communities have earned since 2003 for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in San Jose.

Learn More About Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people aged 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems, or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they are often not aware of their memory loss. 

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s disease, normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.” 

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies. 

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. 

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain the signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  

At MorningStar at West Valley, we specialize in providing compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 42 suites offer a choice of studio and companion configurations along with all the amenities and services required for the finest care.  We want you to know we are here to help if your loved one is suffering from memory loss.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s holistic dementia care in San Jose.    

MorningStar at West Valley brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please visit our website for more information about exceptional dementia care in San Jose.

Sources:  health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/evaluating-mci-mild-cognitive-impairment

alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/related_conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment

What to Look for During a Tour of a Senior Living Community

Whether you plan to tour a senior living community virtually or in-person, getting a good feel of the place is important. A Place for Mom has a list of questions that should help you get started.

On the top of their list are questions regarding the size of the place? How large is the community, how many residents do they have, and does it only offer independent living or do they have assisted living and memory care? Can the community accommodate your mobility issues? If you are doing an in-person tour, does it appear clean and do you notice any unpleasant odors? 

Safety should be your next priority. How secure is the building and is there safe, onsite parking? Are suites equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms? 

If you are searching for assisted living, you will want to ask about the various services available. Also look to see if the staff seems friendly and willing to interact and help residents. Ask about the ratio between residents and staff and what type of training do they receive? Is a licensed nurse on staff? Also does the community offer transportation services to and from doctor appointments? 

Also don’t forget to take a look at the residents as they will be your companions. Do they appear to be socially engaged, active and happy? Ask about the community’s amenities and the types of wellness activities provided for residents.  

At the MorningStar at Silver Lake senior living community, we encourage interested seniors and their families to schedule a tour to get to know us. We customized the process to meet your needs and show you what you want to see, not what we think you should see. A virtual tour on our website offers you a preliminary look; and if you like, we can do a video chat for a more personal look-about. However we think if we are a serious contender for your new home we recommend an in-person visit. This gives you the opportunity to see the things you are most interested in and allow you to get a real feel of our community life. 

Visit our website and browse through our extensive information regarding the area’s finest independent living and assisted living Everett, WA offers. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/tips-for-community-tours

Have Questions Regarding our New Senior Living Community?

At MorningStar of San Jose, we know making a move to senior living is a big step whether it is for assisted living or memory care. This is why we are more than happy to answer all your questions regarding our community, our services, amenities and programs. To help you get to know us better and get answers to some of your questions, our website is a great resource. Under the toolbar of “First Steps,” you will find topics including FAQs, Decision Guide, Affordability and important information for Veterans. 

Our FAQs start with background on our company, MorningStar Senior Living, and what sets us apart from other senior living communities. We offer tips on how to introduce the idea of assisted living to parents. Why assisted living may be the answer to seniors who do not require assistance yet for daily care but could benefit from built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook.

You will find out who regulates our licensing, the protection our Resident Rights policy offers and how prices are structured in our community. For example, as an assisted living resident, we offer five levels of care, established through a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director (Licensed Nurse). Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. Our memory care offers all-inclusive services (suite and care) at one packaged price. While this is just a sampling of the basics covered by our FAQs page, we are also happy to personally answer any questions you may have.

At the new MorningStar of San Jose, we provide 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 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. 

Age-related Macular Degeneration

Just as the rest of our body ages, so do our eyes. Older adults often complain of dry, teary or tired eyes and may have problems driving at night, experience flashes and floaters or need glasses to read. As we grow older we are also at a higher risk for serious eye diseases that can impact our vision. 

One of the most common and serious eye diseases is age-related macular degeneration and is a leading cause of vision loss among people aged 50 and older. The American Macular Degeneration Foundation reports age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is more common than cataracts and glaucoma combined. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention projects by 2050 the number of older Americans with the disease will nearly double from 48 million to 88 million.  

Age-related macular degeneration causes the macula, a part of the back of the eye near the retina, to deteriorate. Experts say while it doesn’t impact peripheral vision, macular degeneration can affect how well a person sees what’s right in front of them.

You are at a higher risk of getting AMD if a relative has had it or you are Caucasians, and white females tend to come down with AMD earlier than white males. Lifestyle choices also increase your risk for AMD including smoking along with elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Sun exposure is another risk factor and doctors recommend wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Maintaining a healthy diet by eating foods high in antioxidants like lutein found in green, leafy vegetables such as spinach are beneficial for our eye health.

Symptoms of AMD include visual distortions and can make straight lines appear bent, reduce central vision in one or both eyes, increase blurriness of printed words, and the need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work. The first signs of AMD are typically discovered by an eye doctor during an annual dilated eye exam. 

The MorningStar at Silver Lake senior living community offers trusted independent living and assisted living in Everett, WA. Our spacious suites include a choice of studio, and one- and two-bedroom configurations. Please contact us to set up a tour to see our newly renovated community and learn more about our many amenities, services and wellness programs. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Signs of Dementia may be Detectable Years before Most Diagnoses

An interesting study from the University of Cambridge raises the possibility of signs that may lead to dementia up to nine years before a diagnosis. Researchers say the reason this is important is it provides time to suggest intervention treatments as well as recommend suitable candidates for clinical trials. Currently by the time most individuals are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it is generally too late to alter the course of the disease and to determine if clinical trials of new treatment are effective. 

The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association published the results of the study, which was funded by the Medical Research Council with support from the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre. One of the study authors, Nol Swaddiwudhipong, explained, “When we looked back at patients’ histories, it became clear that they were showing some cognitive impairment several years before their symptoms became obvious enough to prompt a diagnosis. The impairments were often subtle, but across a number of aspects of cognition.”

Data for the study was obtained from the UK Biobank where researchers looked for signs of early symptoms in participants such as a history of falls, health and disease diagnoses, and weight gain and losses. They also looked at memory loss, problem solving, reaction time, the ability to remember a list of numbers and grip strength. Researchers say while none of these problems alone are a sign of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, if you notice concerning signs of decline in these types of abilities, it is important to see your healthcare provider. 

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

Source: theguardian.com/society/2022/oct/13/signs-of-dementia-may-be-detectable-nine-years-before-diagnosis-study?CMP=oth_b-aplnews_d-1

What is the Difference between Assisted Living & Independent Living?

Many seniors and their families are confused as to what exactly assisted living offers and how it differs from independent living. At MorningStar at Silver Lake, we explain our senior living supports residents as they age with freedom and choices, resort-style amenities and best-in-class dining and hospitality. Spacious floor plans include a choice of studio, and one- and two-bedroom configurations. Wellness programs and activities help keep residents socially engaged and offer opportunities for personal growth. 

If you move into our community as an independent living resident, you will enjoy the fact that all of the maintenance inside and out is taken care of by us. Most of our suites include a washer/dryer and full kitchen with microwave to prepare the meals you want to eat on your own. All-day dining means there is no reason to rush down to meet a strict eating schedule but rather allows you to set your own clock. Weekly housekeeping gives you the time to pursue your interests. 

For our assisted living residents, we work hard to ensure you get the personalized services needed to help maintain your independence. Our entire community is designed to facilitate safe mobility with wide doorways and halls as well as suites equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and grab bars, and 24/7 emergency call systems. 

Additionally as part of our intake service, each assisted living resident meets with our Wellness Director to assess their current health, review medical history and learn about their preferences. From there we create a Personalized Service Plan based on five levels of care. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. If you enter our community as an independent living resident and your medical needs change, you can always switch to assisted living.  

Our trusted independent living and assisted living in Everett, WA provides seniors a refreshing, maintenance-free lifestyle. Please visit our website to browse through MorningStar at Silver Lake’s extensive information, and give us a call to set up a tour or ask about availability. Don’t forget to ask about our great Move-in Specials.

Exercises for Optimal Bone Health

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

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

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

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

MorningStar of San Jose is a new community located in San Jose. Known as the capital of Silicon Valley, the vibrant city of San Jose also offers great weather, quality medical care, local eateries and safe suburban neighborhoods. Visit our website for contact information and availability at the area’s finest assisted living and memory care and be sure to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023 and look forward to meeting you and your family.

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

Tips to Help Prevent Food Poisoning

Unfortunately most of us will suffer from an attack of food poisoning at least once in our life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately one in six Americans will come down with food poisoning this year alone. While uncomfortable, most cases are mild but experts say there are some strains or infections that can be deadly. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain and cramps, nausea, vomiting, frequent diarrhea and fever. 

Food poisoning is caused by bacterial or viral contamination of food and experts say the majority of food poisoning cases could have been prevented. Prevention includes following a few key safety rules in how we buy, store and eat food.      

When grocery shopping, it is recommended you bag items such as meat, poultry and fish together. Produce should be bagged separately. If you are out running errands, make the grocery store your last stop, and if it is hot outside, bring along a cooler bag to keep refrigerated and frozen foods as cold as possible.  

Storage tips include not washing produce until you are ready to use it as it will stay fresher. Before you wash produce, wash your hands with soap and water. Clean produce by running cool water over it for up to 10 seconds. Some food like cucumbers and potatoes should be scrubbed with a brush and then rinsed in cool water. Other foods with hard peels should be scrubbed before the cut opens. 

Meat should not be washed but cooked to the proper temperature.Check with your cookbook or the Internet and use a thermometer to ensure it is cooked through. You should store meats away from vegetables and fruits even in the refrigerator. 

Other tips to help prevent food poisoning is to wash your hands before preparing food, clean your prep surfaces, and use a separate cutting board for meats that can be sanitized in the dishwasher. Also the general rule is to refrigerate leftovers two hours after you take them out of the refrigerator. Throw away food left out for more than four hours.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake offers the area’s finest independent living and assisted living in Everett, WA. Our community is minutes from the world-renowned Providence Regional Medical Center, close to shopping, banks, and restaurants. Over the last few years we have done a community-wide renovation, which is now complete, and invite you to set up a tour to take a look to see what you think. Visit our website for contact information, and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/food-safety-101?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&h_eid=33ff19753588e9ff88a335241c3b8e21caedc878c09582df7ea2d1c7cb6a7d5b&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Oct%2009%2007:47:45%20EDT%202022&utm_term=Your%20Health

Our History Guides the Way We Serve

The new MorningStar of San Jose is designed to “cast a new light” on senior living. Unlike other senior living communities, we are empowered and inspired by our unique mission statement to:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships 

• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals

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

We are proud to be part of MorningStar Senior Living, which has been a highly-respected provider of senior living for over 19 years and now includes several dozen communities across the Western US. It all began when Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger wished to establish a brand of senior living rooted in Judeo-Christian principles after serving for many years in executive leadership positions and thoughtfully observing the senior housing industry.

Mr. Jaeger’s intentions were to create a place like his grandmother’s house, where one can go and feel a sense of family, a sense of belonging. MorningStar’s founding principles include seeing residents as heroes and recognizing the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon these truths daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof.

MorningStar also understands team members are the heartbeat of our communities, and we hire those with big ones. Our team is made up of individuals who recognize it is a privilege to serve and exhibit virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness, as we know these attributes contribute as much as education and experience do in building a team that serves with distinction. 

MorningStar of San Jose provides 69 assisted living suites in various floorplans and 34 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. We are conveniently located to Saratoga, Los Gatos and Cupertino; and a short drive to the ocean, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and nearby vineyards. Contact us to learn more about availability and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors with our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the spring of 2023.

Should You Get an Enhanced Flu Shot?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone age 6 months and older. In June 2022 at the recommendation of an independent panel of experts, the CDC updated their guidance regarding flu vaccines for adults 65 years and older to now get immunized with what’s known as a high-dose or adjuvanted vaccine. The enhanced high-dose flu vaccine helps this age group to have a stronger immune system response against influenza, commonly called the flu.  

The recommendation for the stronger dose of protection is based on research collected by the CDC, which shows standard-dose flu vaccines simply don’t work as well in older adults as they do in younger populations. Moreover people 65 years and older are at a higher risk of complications from the flu, resulting in hospitalizations and even death. Statistics show approximately 70 to 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths and 50 to 70 percent of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people 65 and older. High dose flu vaccines are updated every year to address the seasonal strain of the virus. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Some high-dose flu vaccines include 3 to 4 times as much flu virus antigen — the part of the vaccine that stimulates the immune system — as standard flu vaccines. One flu vaccine recommended for older adults has the same amount of antigen as the standard dose vaccine; but boosts the immune response by including an ingredient called an adjuvant.” Talk to your medical care provider about which flu vaccine they recommend you get. 

MorningStar at Silver Lake’s senior housing in Everett, WA offers adults 55+ a vibrant and carefree lifestyle in which they can comfortably and safely age in place. Our community provides independent living and assisted living with private apartments in a choice of studio and one- and two bedroom configurations. With all of our renovations complete, we encourage you to set up a tour to come in and see our beautiful “new” community. Please ask about Move-in Specials.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/expert-answers/fluzone/faq-20058032

Help Maintain and Enhance Your Memory

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

What sets MorningStar at North Ridge apart from other Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque?  Our community is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.   

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting. Visit our website to learn more about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Staying Well Hydrated Offers Many Benefits Including Heart Health

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

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

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

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