Robotic Pets Can Improve Quality of Life

Have you been searching for something for your elderly mom or dad that would provide some comfort and help ease their feelings of loneliness?  While you may think that they are not capable of assuming the responsibilities of a new pet, you could consider one of the many “robotic pets” in the marketplace. 

We know there has been a lot of research that supports the idea that pet ownership is beneficial to seniors and a loving pet is a great companion.  Now researchers have also discovered that robotic pets may provide the elderly with many of the same benefits live animals do.   In fact, a study found that the interaction between older adults and animals, whether real or robotic, helped lower blood pressure, eased anxiety, reduced feelings of loneliness and improved the overall quality of life. 

The advantage of a low-maintenance robot dog or cat is they are easy for seniors with little to no tech savvy to “care for.”  The realistic pets do little tricks such as a robotic dog who wags its tail, raises its eyebrow when you pet it, has a heartbeat, and makes a barking noise.  For people with dementia, robotic pets have helped ease agitation and anxiety and seem to have a calming influence. 

New York’s Department for the Aging (DFTA) was so impressed with the pets that they implemented a program to distribute mechanical dogs and cats to seniors with the aim of easing loneliness. When phase 3 of the program was announced in late 2021, assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) said, “Studies have shown time and again that isolation has a severe detrimental impact on the physical and mental health of older adults. Robotic pets have become a proven success to not only help seniors overcome social isolation and improve public health but cut down on health care costs.”

MorningStar at North Ridge provides compassionate care to residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, and we could not agree more about the benefits of pets, live or robotic. Our beautiful community has 38 suites and was designed from the ground up to provide a safe, supportive and loving environment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted memory care in Albuquerque.  

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Albuquerque.

WHAT IS OSTEOARTHRITIS?

As the most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis negatively impacts the health of millions throughout the world. The disease develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the impact of constant pounding on the joints starts to deteriorate over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint in the body, it most often damages the joints located in the hands, hips, knees, and spine. At our senior living center in Everett, Washington, our caregivers educate residents on how to prevent the development of the disease, as well as on what steps to take to mitigate the symptoms.

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

The caregivers at our assisted living facility in Arlington help residents recognize the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Pain in the impacted joints after moving them is one of the most common signs of the disease. For example, if you experience constant pain in one or both knees after taking a long walk, you might suffer from the development of osteoarthritis. 

Another common symptom of the disease is experiencing joint stiffness that does not dissipate. In fact, joint stiffness that worsens is a clear sign that you should undergo diagnostic tests to determine the health status of the joints. An impacted joint might feel tender to the touch, as well as lose flexibility when you put the impacted joint through a wide variety of motions. Tender joints might start to swell, which is another common symptom of osteoarthritis.

What Are the Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. The licensed caregivers at our assisted living facility in Lynnwood help residents learn how to minimize the many risks. However, there are two risks of developing the disease that are out of your control. First, the risk of developing osteoarthritis increases as we grow older. Years of constant pounding on one or more joints can weaken the joints. Women are more likely to develop the disease, although researchers have yet to discover why.

The most common risk factor that you control is your weight. Carrying around extra weight adds pressure to weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Fat tissue produces the types of proteins that trigger painful inflammation around the joints. Another risk factor you control concerns injuries, which typically occur for people who play contact sports. At our senior living center in Everett, WA, we encourage residents to participate in physical activities that emphasize aerobic exercises over exercises that feature high-contact movements.

What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Osteoarthritis?

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, you have several ways to diminish the symptoms of the disease. Pain relievers that contain acetaminophen decrease pain in the joints, as do nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Taking the right medication is a short-term solution to minimizing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Longer-term solutions for decreasing the impact of the symptoms include physical therapy treatments like stretching and cardio exercises. Balance exercises can strengthen the small muscles around the knees and ankles to help prevent falls. Assistive devices such as braces and shoe inserts can relieve pressure placed on the impacted joints.

At MorningStar at Silver Lake, the health of our residents is the paramount concern. Our caregivers strive to ensure our residents enjoy vibrant lifestyles that include activities that help prevent the development of osteoarthritis. We make a compassionate commitment to our senior residents whether they opt for an independent, assisted living, or memory care lifestyle. Schedule a tour today to learn more about our healthcare amenities.

Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

While there is not one single test used to definitively diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, doctors typically use a variety of tools to make a diagnosis. Along with the person’s primary care provider, specialists like neurologists, neuropsychologists, geriatricians and geriatric psychiatrists may all be involved in determining if the patient’s problems are Alzheimer’s or caused by other reasons.

The process starts with a medical workup done by a health care provider that includes the person’s history of medical problems as well as any history of psychiatric, cognitive or behavioral problems. It is important to tell the doctor about all current medications including over-the-counter-drugs and supplements the person is taking. Your doctor will also want to know if there is a family history of Alzheimer’s or other cognitive problems. 

A physical exam should include a check of reflexes, blood pressure levels and questions regarding sleep patterns, diet, exercise and other lifestyle habits. A structural brain imaging scan such an MRI or computed tomography is used to rule out damage to the brain from stroke, tumors, head trauma or a build-up of fluid. Blood and urine tests can rule out other reasons for symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association says common causes of dementia-like symptoms include depression, untreated sleep apnea, delirium, side effects of medications, thyroid problems, certain vitamin deficiencies and excessive alcohol consumption.

The doctor may also use one of several cognitive, functional tests to evaluate the person’s memory, thinking and simple problem-solving skills. Professionals state, “There is an urgent need for a simple, inexpensive, non-invasive and easily available diagnostic tool such as blood tests to diagnose the disease.” Currently researchers are experimenting with a variety of tests to enable them to track changes more easily in the brain to identify the disease. Currently, health professionals do not recommend routine genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease. 

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we offer individualized, specialized care for those at the onset of Alzheimer’s disease through to the most advanced stages.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with compassionate caregivers to activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please see our website for more information about MorningStar’s Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/medical_tests

Alzheimer’s Disease and Wandering

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander.  The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home.  Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.  

Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering.  Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.  

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parents or another loved one.  Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times.  Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.  

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and trying to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out.  In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out.  You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.   

At MorningStar Memory Care at North Ridge, we offer 38 suites in a choice of studio and one-bedroom configurations along with all the amenities and services required for the finest care.  Our beautiful building is a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including a courtyard and strolling paths. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s trusted memory care in Albuquerque.    

MorningStar at North Ridge represents the very best in memory care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sources:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering

agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm

4 Activities to Help Seniors Fight the Winter Blues

As the colder months arrive, it’s time to start planning wintertime activities for those in senior living in Denver. Shorter and darker days can make seniors vulnerable to (seasonal) depression, but with these stimulating indoor activities, older adults can stay happy and healthy throughout the wintertime. 

From brain games to social activities, there are plenty of winter activity options in senior living in Denver. Here are the best ideas to give a try once it gets cold outside:

1. Throw a Classic Dance Party

Music is one of the best ways to keep seniors’ brains stimulated, active, and engaged. Even when memory problems start to affect seniors, music can trigger feelings of nostalgia and bring positive memories back to the surface, which is precisely what you want to help them combat the winter blues. 

Put on some classic tunes and encourage them to get up and groove (in safe ways, of course). Fun movement and nostalgic music paired together are sure to chase away any negative emotions in seniors during the winter months.

2. Host a Puzzle Party

Puzzles are fun for all ages, and studies have shown that completing puzzles and similar “brain games” work at keeping senior cognition sharp. They encourage problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as stimulate geospatial activity in the brain. 

You can make a puzzle party fun and enticing for everyone, even those struggling with memory problems, and include festive and winter-themed puzzles to lift everyone’s spirits. 

3. Turn On Festive Holiday Movies 

Almost everyone has a favorite holiday film that they turn on each winter, so gather everyone together for a fun and festive indoor movie night! You can even set up a makeshift concession stand to make the occasion a bit more eventful and fun — just make sure that you serve snacks and drinks that are accessible and safe for everyone in the room. 

4. Spa Days Full of Pampering

Anyone senior living in Denver deserves to enjoy a thorough pampering session during these winter days. Bring your own spa materials to the community and offer luxurious services that they wouldn’t otherwise normally access. These can include things like manicures, pedicures, facials, and simple grooming tasks. For seniors with memory problems, focus on low-stimulation tasks like hair brushing and nail clipping. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make residents feel special. Seniors are bound to feel more like themselves when they look their best!

Best Ways to Combat Winter Depression in Seniors

The holiday season should be joyful and light, but that isn’t always the reality for many seniors. Thankfully, you can use the above guide to create a memorable and fun winter for residents of senior living in Denver!

Creating a Medical Treatment Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease

If you or a loved one is having memory problems, experts say it is important to work closely with your healthcare providers to determine what is going on. If the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s disease, a treatment plan will need to be created. However, as Alzheimer’s is a disease, it is important to understand the plan will most likely need to be updated and amended.

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that the individual and their family members should be told of all available options along with the benefits and risks as the treatment plan evolves. The plan should consider the person’s age and overall health, current medical conditions, treatment goals and the severity of symptoms and how they are impacting the person’s life. Another important consideration is the living situation of the person and the availability of the support they need.

To get started on a personalized treatment plan, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a list of questions you can ask of your medical team. These include determining if medications will interfere with drugs already being taken for other medical conditions. Also, ask about possible side effects and what to look for; and if the person experiences any, does it mean they will not be able to continue taking the drug? In addition, are there any problems with stopping one drug and beginning another?

Another question to ask the doctor is how much time is needed before it can be determined if the medication is working. Moreover, is there a stage in the disease when it should be stopped?

If you are looking for memory care in Albuquerque, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at North Ridge. Our entire community is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Our care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages. Please contact us for more information about our compassionate, loving community.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Albuquerque, NM.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/questions-for-your-doctor

An App to Help Those with Dementia Reinforce Memories

An interesting study from the University of Toronto, and reported by The Medical News Today, introduces a smartphone app for people with memory impairments that may help reinforce their memories of life events. Researchers explain the HippoCamera app imitates the function of the hippocampus by consolidating a person’s memories. The hippocampus is believed to repeatedly replay memories to the rest of the brain at a high speed to help stabilize them for long-term recall.
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Researchers explain the app works by recording everyday events in the person’s life and repeatedly playing them back to the person. They say the broader point of helping those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia diseases remember the events the HippoCamera recorded may be that remembering those things might result in a renewed ability to recall and share experiences. The lead study author, Dr. Chris Martin, says, “If you can better recall a specific moment from your recent past, you will have a stronger mental bridge between your present and past self.”

The study found people who used the app for two weeks experienced a 56% increase in their ability to recall the details of events recorded with the HippoCamera. People who used it for 70 consecutive days saw an 84% increase. Prof. Morgan D. Barense, senior investigator of the study and a cognitive neuropsychologist, says people also reported back the emotions they felt at the time and the people who were there. She adds their findings could encourage people to get into the habit of focusing on their memories and realizing there are simple things we can do to preserve them.

MorningStar at North Ridge offers trusted Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque, NM. Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals. Our 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. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-a-smartphone-app-may-help-boost-memory-recall#Why-strong-memories-are-important

Pet Therapy for People With Alzheimer’s and Other Dementia-Related Diseases

Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) is used for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia to alleviate feelings of boredom, loneliness and helplessness. Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard trained geriatrician and author of “The Eden Alternative,” said bringing in children, plants and animals helps to invigorate long-term care by “incorporating companionship, a sense of purpose, variety and spontaneity into the day-to-day experience of aged care residents.”
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While studies show therapy dogs and other animals are useful in stimulating social interaction and easing agitation in dementia patients, experts say it should be done with specially trained pets to get the most benefit. Moreover, the animal should be matched to the setting as well as to the person. Pet therapists say dogs are generally the easiest to train as they are comfortable interacting with a variety of people.

The benefits of animal therapy to dementia patients include the unconditional love and acceptance animals freely give out as well as the physical touch from the pet contact. Also, these relationships do not require much in the way of communication skills, which are often difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers say other benefits of pet therapy include an increase in physical activity and an unexpected improvement in a person’s appetite after a visit from an animal as well as an overall calming effect.

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we provide compassionate, loving care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s approach to care is designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss. Our wellness program includes activities that leverage the power of art, music, dance, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort residents. For trusted Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque, 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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Sources:
verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677
brightfocus.org/alzheimers/article/alzheimers-disease-magic-pets

MorningStar at North Ridge is Devoted to Residents With Memory Loss

MorningStar at North Ridge in Albuquerque is specifically designed to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of residents suffering from memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our community focuses entirely on providing the finest memory care to meet the special needs of residents.
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Care in the Reflections Neighborhood begins with a high staff to resident ratio. All team members are trained in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach. This training gives employees a better understanding of the disease and more tools for effective, compassionate treatments. In addition, residents receive daily health monitoring with access to licensed nurses and other third-party service providers.

When people visit MorningStar at North Ridge for the first time, they are impressed with the comfortable atmosphere of our community. Although a secure setting, independence is encouraged and residents can explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. MorningStar’s approach to care incorporates Montessori-based therapies and includes wellness programs and activities. Activities that leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals are used to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory loss.

Our 38 suites come in a choice of studio and one-bedroom floor plans for either private or companion living. Each unit is equipped with an emergency call system and a full, handicap-accessible bathroom. Included in the monthly fee are basic cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal.

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences. MorningStar at North Ridge recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we believe it is important to provide the support they need. Please visit our website for more information about our individualized, holistic memory care.
 
MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Albuquerque.

Healthy Habits May Delay or Minimize the Effects of Mild Cognitive Impairment

MCI (mild cognitive impairment) can be a precursor to dementia but does not always progress to dementia. The National Institute on Aging reports “an estimated 10 to 20% of people aged 65 or older with MCI develop dementia over a one-year period. However, not everyone who has MCI develops dementia. In many cases, the symptoms of MCI may stay the same or even improve.”  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 take 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 include engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles, games or learning a new language.  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.   

MorningStar at North Ridge in Albuquerque provides compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our community is tailored to serve the needs of our special residents from purposeful activities to nutritional, easy-to-eat foods.  Our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve.  Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.  

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care in Albuquerque, NM.

Does a Loved One With Memory Impairment Need More Care?

A Place for Mom’s website explains how many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease 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 community. Experts say signs include: has their appearance 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

• Had a fall or been to the emergency room recently

• Leave the stove on after preparing food

MorningStar at North Ridge offers compassionate Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque, NM.  Our unique approach to memory care is all-encompassing and provides an environment in which your loved one is given the support they need to make the most of each day. As our community is devoted to memory care only, every aspect of our home is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted, safe and secure. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

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

MorningStar Offers Trusted Memory Care in Albuquerque

If you are looking for comprehensive, compassionate memory care for a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at North Ridge. Our unique approach to memory care is all-encompassing and provides an environment in which your loved one is given the support they need to make the most of each day.
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As our community is devoted to memory care only, every aspect of our home is designed to make individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases feel comforted, safe and secure. To ensure the safety and well-being of residents, our community is completely secure, including courtyards and strolling paths. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

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

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 an individualized care plan to address their needs.

As a resident, your loved one will receive 24/7 care from trained care managers and daily health monitoring. In addition, they will have access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers. Residents participate in a variety of wellness programs and activities including exercise, music, dance, art and special events. Please contact us for more information about MorningStar’s memory care in Albuquerque.

MorningStar at North Ridge represents the very best in memory care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest”. With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Memory Loss That Impacts Your Day-to-Day Life is Cause for Concern

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

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

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

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

For experienced, trusted Alzheimer’s care, please consider MorningStar at North Ridge in Albuquerque. Every aspect of our memory care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals. Visit our website to learn more about our compassionate, loving community.  While you are there, use the links to contact us or set up a tour.
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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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

You Can Still Date if You’re a Senior in an Assisted Living Facility

Transitioning to an assisted living facility is not the end of enjoying an active lifestyle. In fact, for many seniors, an assisted living facility keeps them more active than they have been for years. This is especially true for the residents of the MorningStar senior housing facility in Everett, Washington. Not only is our activities calendar full every month, but our assisted living facility is the best option for seniors that want to live an independent lifestyle that includes dating.

Let’s review a few tips that help you date if you’re a senior in an assisted living facility.

Set Realistic Expectations

The first tip for dating while living in an assisted living facility is perhaps the most important: set realistic expectations. Are you ready to fall in love again or are you looking for a conversation partner to interact with during meals? There are several ways to date, regardless if you are a senior or a teenager going out on the first date. Be honest with yourself when deciding what you want out of a dating relationship.

Expand Your Social Circle

You do not have to jump in right away by participating in activities at the MorningStar senior housing facility in Everett. However, you should eventually start expanding your social circle by meeting new people at special events, as well as during daily activities. Go on an outing to a Seattle cultural attraction and sign up for activities such as yoga classes and weekly cooking demonstrations.

Look Ahead, Not Behind

Widows and widowers looking to start new relationships often have to deal with mixed emotions. On the one hand, many widows and widowers feel guilty for moving on from the loss of a lifelong soulmate. On the other hand, they also can experience loneliness, which can trigger unhealthy mental and emotional side effects. Resist the temptation to search for someone who reminds you of your lifelong partner. Instead, treat dating as wiping away an old slate to begin a new slate with no strings attached.

Make Compatibility the Priority

Remember two pieces of advice: Age is just a number and looks are not everything when it comes to dating as a senior living in an assisted living facility. Most seniors that enter into dating relationships discover that finding someone with similar lifestyle preferences strengthens a dating relationship. Older adults living in a senior housing facility typically are more flexible when it comes to age and appearance. What matters most is finding someone who shares many common interests.

The Bottom Line: Enjoy the Journey

Do not take dating too seriously. Instead, look at dating in an assisted living facility as an adventure. You get the opportunity to enjoy stimulating conversations, as well as taking trips to visit some of Seattle’s most popular social, cultural, and dining destinations. If you find someone that you grow close to while staying active at our assisted living facility, then you have struck gold in the dating game.

Explore What MorningStar Has to Offer

Moving into an assisted living facility can be the right decision for you, but only if you conduct proper research to find the best facility. MorningStar has assisted living facilities located across the United States. We have earned a reputation for offering the most comprehensive set of personalized care services, as well as highly appealing amenities. Submit the contact form to learn more about our assisted living facility in Everett, Washington.

Low Vitamin D Levels May Increase Risk of Dementia

Researchers are working hard to find the cause of Alzheimer’s disease as well as more effective treatments. The Medical News Today reports statistics show an estimated 6 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the US; and it is the sixth leading cause of death in America. Moreover, the number is set to grow to 13 million by 2050 due to the country’s aging population.
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For the first time, an observational study has investigated the presence of vitamin D in the brain and its potential effect on cognitive outcomes. Before this study, scientists had been unsure if vitamin D was present in the brain at all, despite other research which suggested a link between high blood levels of vitamin D and less cognitive decline or dementia. The Tufts University in Massachusetts’s lead author, Kyla Shea, Ph.D. explains their observational study “found better cognitive function is associated with people who have higher concentrations of vitamin D in their brains.”

The study reports finding “vitamin D in the mid-temporal cortex, mid-frontal cortex, the cerebellum and anterior watershed white of the brain, all of which have been implicated in different types and stages of dementia, including AD and dementia with Lewy bodies.” However, the study researchers say there needs to be a larger study to further investigate the matter.

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we offer individualized, specialized Alzheimer’s care for those at the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages. Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes. Beginning with compassionate caregivers to activities, programs and meals designed to meet residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about exceptional memory care in Albuquerque.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Source:
medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-risk-low-levels-vitamin-d-linked-to-poor-cognitive-function

The Impact Alzheimer’s Disease Has on Family Members

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all. Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold. Most are left with questions about what to expect next.

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.” They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better. Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors. Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned. You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day. A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so. Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away.

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings. They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses. Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings.

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we offer compassionate care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community offers a setting specifically designed to enhance our residents’ freedom and fully accommodate the disposition and behavior of those with memory impairment. Along with 24-hour care, residents receive daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs. Please visit our website for more information about specialized memory care in Albuquerque.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Albuquerque.

Many People With Alzheimer’s Disease Experience Sleep Problems

While we know many people with Alzheimer’s disease experience sleep problems, experts are not sure why. They only know the changes in the person’s brain somehow seem to affect sleep patterns. Studies suggest the most severe changes happen in the later stages of the disease but some people can develop problems early-on.

Types of changes include waking up at night more often and staying awake for longer periods. Brain wave studies show a decrease in both dreaming and non-dreaming sleep stages in Alzheimer’s patients. The person may feel restless and unable to lie still, resulting in behaviors like wandering or yelling and calling out. 

In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, many “individuals spend about 40 percent of their time in bed at night awake and a significant part of their daytime sleeping.” In some cases, a person may reverse their sleep pattern completely by sleeping during the day and being unable to sleep at night.  

The condition known as “sundowning” can cause a person to begin to feel agitated as dusk approaches and can go on throughout the night. Symptoms include an increase in confusion, anxiety, pacing and disorientation. Other problems triggering sleep disruptions may be from depression, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea. Most medical professionals including the NIH agree non-drug treatments are the safest solution as sleep medications can result in falls and other risk factors such as faster cognitive decline and outweigh their benefits.  

Measures to encourage a good night sleep include keeping routine hours for meals and bedtimes. Use the bed only as a place to sleep, and try to expose the person to morning sunlight. Daily exercise should help the person feel tired at night but do it at least four hours before bed as well as avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. Ensure the person is warm or cool enough and provide security items and nightlights.   

At MorningStar at North Ridge, a memory care community in Albuquerque, we have 38 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Each day is filled with activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents.  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 value, 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 the finest memory care in Albuquerque, NM.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes

MorningStar’s Holistic Approach to Alzheimer’s Care

MorningStar at North Ridge provides 38 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our community in Albuquerque is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.
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Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia. Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be. Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care. This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch. However, most importantly, we embrace hope.

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions. Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan.

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families. Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones. Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.
 
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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Risk Factors of Alzheimer’s Disease

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 age 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. 

MorningStar at North Ridge provides compassionate, individualized dementia care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  For trusted memory care in Albuquerque, please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, 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 dementia care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care in Albuquerque, NM.
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Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447

The Difference between Memory Care and Assisted Living

If an elderly parent or another loved one needs 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 activities of daily living (ADLs), memory care also offers specialized therapies for those with memory loss.

Wellness programs for assisted living residents are entertaining, meaningful programs with opportunities to socialize, grow and contribute. Memory care communities 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 exits. The layout of the community typically offers clear wayfinding to help residents navigate their environment and decrease confusion and agitation.

Memory care communities 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 to have a better understanding of the disease.

MorningStar at North Ridge is designed from the ground up to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 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. We strive to make each day as special as possible for our residents and we have a wonderful team of caregivers to help us achieve that goal. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s quality Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

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