How Pumpkin Supports Eye Health in Seniors

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Pumpkin shows up every fall in pies, soups, and front porch displays, but it is also a quiet helper for your eyes. Behind that bright orange color are nutrients that support vision in ways that matter more as we get older.

Why pumpkin is so good for your eyes

Pumpkin is rich in beta carotene, a form of vitamin A. Your body turns beta carotene into vitamin A, which plays an important role in keeping eyes healthy in independent living Phoenix.

Here is how it helps:

  • Night vision support: Vitamin A helps the retina work well in low light. When levels are adequate, it is easier for your eyes to adjust when you move from a bright room to a dim one.

  • Protection for the retina: Beta carotene acts as an antioxidant. Along with other plant pigments in pumpkin, it helps limit damage from everyday exposure to light and oxygen, both of which can play a role in age related changes such as macular degeneration.

Pumpkin also contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and other carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, all known for supporting eye tissue and helping protect against wear over time.

Simple ways to add pumpkin to your meals

You do not have to wait for a holiday to enjoy these benefits in retirement communities. Pumpkin fits easily into everyday dishes.

Ideas to try:

  • Creamy soups: Stir pumpkin puree into vegetable or tomato soup. It adds a smooth texture and gentle sweetness while increasing the vitamin content.

  • Morning muffins: Bake pumpkin muffins using whole grain flour and modest sugar. They can be frozen and reheated for a quick snack or breakfast.

  • Smoothies: Blend pumpkin puree with yogurt, banana, cinnamon, and a little milk. This makes a soft, easy to drink snack that is kind to both digestion and eyes.

  • Oatmeal upgrade: Add a spoonful of pumpkin to cooked oats with nutmeg or ginger. This turns a basic bowl into a warming, nutrient dense breakfast.

Extra reasons pumpkin earns a spot on the plate

While eye health is a big reason to choose pumpkin, there are other advantages:

  • Fiber: Supports regular digestion and helps you feel satisfied longer.

  • Potassium: Aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure, which also benefits the tiny vessels in the eyes.

  • Low calorie, high nutrition: Offers a lot of vitamins for relatively few calories, making it a smart choice for those watching weight or appetite.

Adding pumpkin a few times a week in senior apartments Phoenix can be an easy, pleasant way to care for your eyes and overall health at the same time. Whether it shows up in a soup bowl, a muffin, or a simple smoothie, this familiar fall food brings more than flavor to the table. It offers steady support for vision in a form that feels comforting, familiar, and easy to enjoy.

What is Dementia?

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Many of us, especially seniors, have heard or known someone with Alzheimer’s disease and have an idea of the devastation it causes. While there are other types of diseases categorized as dementia, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. You should know dementia is not actually a specific disease but refers to a decline in a person’s mental ability to such a degree it interferes with their daily life.    

It is also important to understand dementia is not a normal condition of aging but rather caused by damage to brain cells that affect a person’s memory, reasoning and other cognitive skills including an ability to communicate. There are several types of clinical dementia including: Alzheimer’s disease; vascular dementia; dementia with Lewy Body; and frontotemporal dementia. Mixed dementia is the term used when a person has both Alzheimer’s and another form of dementia, which is causing their mental decline.

The Alzheimer’s Association says the “most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.” As the disease progresses, the person is robbed of many other abilities such as speaking, swallowing and walking.

To help get the proper diagnosis and rule out other causes that may be treatable such as side effects from a medication, it is important to see your doctor. If warranted, they may have you see a specialist that can do further testing.      

At MorningStar at Jordan, we provide memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related conditions. We are a team of compassionate professionals who feel honored to give our special residents the best quality of life possible. We also consider supporting family members as part of our job and recognize that a diagnosis of dementia is difficult for all involved. Contact us or visit our website to inquire about availability, pricing and to schedule a tour about assisted living communities. 

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. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s

How Your Gut Affects Your Mood: Feeling Better from the Inside Out

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You have probably noticed how your stomach reacts when life feels stressful. Maybe your appetite disappears, or your digestion feels off. That is not your imagination. Your gut and your brain are in constant conversation, and what happens in one often shows up in the other. For older adults in assisted living, caring for digestion is not just about comfort after meals. It can also support calmer moods and steadier energy.

How the gut and brain “talk” to each other

Your digestive system and your brain are connected through a network often called the gut brain axis. Nerves, hormones, and chemical messengers travel between the two all day long. That is why:

  • Worry can cause butterflies or an upset stomach

  • Long term digestive trouble can sometimes leave you feeling more tense or low

One important messenger is serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Most of the body’s serotonin is made in the gut. If the gut environment is out of balance, it can affect how much of this “feel better” chemical is produced and how well signals travel. Supporting gut health is one way to support that communication line.

Everyday habits that nourish gut health

You do not need a complicated plan to begin helping your digestion and mood work together more smoothly. A few steady habits in retirement communities Phoenix can make a meaningful difference.

Bring more fiber to your plate

Fiber feeds the helpful bacteria that live in the intestines and keeps digestion moving in a comfortable rhythm. Good sources include:

  • Fruits such as berries, apples, pears, and oranges

  • Vegetables like carrots, broccoli, greens, and squash

  • Whole grains, including oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread

Start by adding one or two fiber rich foods a day so your system has time to adjust. Over time, many people notice less bloating, more regularity, and a bit more overall ease.

Add probiotic rich foods

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can support a healthy gut community. You can find them in:

  • Yogurt with live cultures

  • Kefir

  • Fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi

  • Some aged cheeses

In senior living Phoenix and similar communities, residents often find that a daily yogurt or small side of fermented vegetables fits easily into meals and helps digestion feel more settled. 

Keep fluids flowing

Water helps the digestive tract do its job. Without enough fluid, things can slow down, which may lead to discomfort and sluggishness that affects mood too. Keeping a glass or bottle nearby and sipping throughout the day is often more effective than trying to drink a lot all at once. Herbal teas and broths also count, as long as they are not loaded with sugar.

Listening to how your body responds

Everyone’s gut is a little different. Paying attention to which foods leave you feeling comfortable and which tend to bother you gives you useful clues. A short note in a notebook or on a calendar about what you ate and how you felt afterward can help you and your doctor spot patterns over time.

If digestive changes are new, intense, or come with weight loss, bleeding, or strong pain, it is important to mention them to a clinician rather than just adjusting food on your own.

Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods to Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk

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While there is a lot of data on how lifestyle habits impact our health, a study published last year reinforces a link between ultra-processed foods and the increase in a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes. The study from University College London analyzed the intake of ultra-processed foods and health outcomes in more than 310,000 Europeans over a period of ten years.

This deserves attention as our country’s research shows “about 60% of daily caloric intake for Americans comes from consuming ultra-processed foods.” Moreover, according to the CDC, the number of Americans with diabetes or prediabetes continues to rise. They state over 38 million people or 11.6 percent of the population have diabetes, and about 98 million people aged 18 years or older have prediabetes.

Researchers say the problem with ultra-processed foods is they include additives and/or industrial processed and novel types of fats, proteins and carbs a home cook wouldn’t use. Samuel Dicken, BA Hons (Cantab.), MSc, clinical scientist and doctoral researcher at the Centre for Obesity Research in the Division of Medicine at University College London, and lead author of the study explained to Medical News Today, “Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, they’re highly accessible, cheap, convenient, and heavily marketed.” He says just look at grocery shelves filled with ultra-processed foods like breakfast cereals, snacks, plant-based alternatives and sugary drinks.

Despite the study showing the more ultra-processed food a person consumed, the higher the risk for developing type 2 diabetes; the study also had good news. It reported participants who altered their diet by replacing 10 percent of ultra-processed foods with 10 percent of minimally processed foods reduced their diabetes risk by 8%.

Experts say to improve our diet; we should eat more fruit and vegetables, limit drive-through meals and cook healthy meals at home. Also, when grocery shopping, read labels; the longer the list, the more likely it is ultra-processed regardless of claims of low fat or high fiber.

At MorningStar at Jordan, we pride ourselves on offering residents daily meals that are full of fresh ingredients from high quality producers.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and feature foods known to support brain health by their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Our beautiful community offers 55 suites for assisted living and another 29 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory loss diseases.  If you are looking for a home with an exceptional dementia care team along with amenities and services unmatched by other senior living communities, please visit our website to learn more. 

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

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cutting-ultra-processed-food-consumption-could-lower-type-2-diabetes-risk

Making New Friends After Retirement

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Friendship after retirement in assisted living is less about big gestures and more about small, genuine moments that add up over time.

Let shared interests lead the way

It is much easier to talk with people in senior living Phoenix when you already have something in common. Think about what lights you up or what you have always wanted to try.

You might explore:

  • A gardening, cooking, or book group

  • A walking club or gentle exercise class

  • A craft, art, or music circle

When you join a group built around something you enjoy, conversation tends to unfold naturally. You already know at least one thing about the person sitting next to you: they chose to be there for the same reason you did.

Turn kindness into connection through volunteering

Helping others is a powerful way to meet people who care about similar things. Volunteering also brings structure to the week and a sense of purpose.

Possible places to start include:

  • Libraries or community centers

  • Food pantries and meal programs

  • Animal shelters or pet therapy groups

  • Schools, reading programs, or tutoring

You decide how often and in what way you show up. Over time, familiar faces turn into friendly ones, and friendly ones into something deeper.

Look backward as well as forward

New connections are wonderful, but old ones can be revived too. 

Think about:

  • A neighbor you enjoyed talking with

  • A former coworker you lost touch with

  • Someone from a club, faith community, or class

A short note, phone call, or message saying, “I was thinking about you and wondered how you are doing,” is enough. Many people are relieved and delighted when someone else makes the first move.

Say yes to small local gatherings

Community events often offer low pressure chances to meet people without a big commitment. 

Look for:

  • Potlucks or coffee socials

  • Art or craft workshops

  • Lectures, book readings, or game nights

  • Seasonal fairs or concerts

You do not need to stay the whole time or talk to everyone. Sitting next to someone, trading a comment about the music or the food, and introducing yourself gently is a good start.

Stay open, but protect your energy

You do not have to transform your social life overnight. Respect the pace that feels right for you.

Helpful reminders:

  • A smile and a “hello” go further than you think

  • One or two steady friendships matter more than many shallow ones

  • It is fine to leave an event when you feel ready, not when the schedule says it ends

New connections in retirement communities Phoenix often begin with simple curiosity about the person in front of you and a willingness to show a bit of yourself in return. Little by little, that is how a new circle forms.

Medical Errors Are Third Leading Cause of Death in the United States

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The US News & World Report writes that medical errors are more common than we think; and some of them are life-alternating or deadly. Facts show medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States. These include mistakes made in health care settings such as incorrect diagnoses, problems in surgery, operating on the wrong part of the body and incorrectly dispensing medications. Another devastating mistake can result in patients acquiring infections during their hospital stay from things like inadequate hand hygiene and improper wound care.

Dr. Kanwar Kelley, a board-certified otolaryngologist and cofounder and CEO of Side Health, explains, “Most medical errors – regardless if they are diagnostic errors, medication errors or surgical errors – can be linked to issues in medical processes or workflows.”

While most mistakes happen within the healthcare system and it is neither our responsibility or within our reach to prevent many of these errors, there are things we can do to try and protect ourselves. The first thing experts say is to get as informed as possible about your medical problem. This includes asking questions about treatment options, and how long you will be on any new medication you are prescribed. Ask about potential side effects and make sure you know exactly how to take the medication. If you are not happy with what you hear or with the doctor, you are entitled to seek a second opinion.

Your responsibility includes communicating with your healthcare team about all medications you are taking including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. In addition, provide a comprehensive medical history of diseases, cancers, surgeries and other problems you have had over the years.   

At MorningStar at Jordan, our beautiful community offers a host of amenities, care services and wellness programs as well as activities to live life to the fullest.  Located in historic Centennial, Colorado, MorningStar offers 55 assisted living suites in a choice floor plans that just need your furnishings and personal treasures to make it feel like home.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information on dementia 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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/how-to-prevent-medical-errors?

Making the Most of a Smaller Home: Cozy, Practical Décor for Seniors

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A small home or apartment can feel warm and welcoming when it is set up with comfort and ease in mind. You do not need a lot of square footage to create a space that works well for your daily life and still feels like “you.” With a few thoughtful choices, even a compact apartment in a community like assisted living Phoenix can feel open, organized, and inviting.

Choose furniture that works harder for you

When space is limited, every piece of furniture earns its place. Look for items that can do more than one job:

  • Ottomans or benches with hidden storage

  • Coffee tables with shelves or drawers

  • Nightstands that include both a drawer and open space

These pieces give blankets, books, and extra odds and ends a home, which keeps surfaces clear and makes the room feel calmer. A small drop leaf or foldable table can stay tucked away most of the time and open up when company comes over.

Lighten up the room with color and brightness

Soft, light colors can help a room feel larger and more open. Cream, pale blue, warm white, and light gray are all gentle choices for walls or larger furniture pieces. You can bring in richer tones through pillows, throws, and artwork so the space still has personality.

Letting in as much natural light as possible makes a big difference too. In senior living Phoenix we use sheer curtains or blinds that can be pulled fully open during the day. In the evening, rely on several smaller lamps with warm bulbs rather than one harsh overhead light. This creates a softer, more flattering glow and reduces shadows that can make a room feel crowded.

Keep pathways clear and décor simple

In a smaller home, clutter shows up quickly. Prioritizing clear walkways is not only visually appealing but safer as well. Aim to:

  • Keep floors free of loose cords, stacks, and extra rugs

  • Limit décor to a few favorite pieces instead of many small items

  • Use shelves or wall hooks to lift storage off the floor

A single framed quilt, one special painting, or a few family photos grouped together can add warmth without crowding surfaces.

Bring in a bit of nature

Even one small plant can soften a room. Succulents, pothos, or herbs in a sunny window require little care and add a touch of green that makes the space feel fresh. If watering is a concern, high quality faux plants can provide the same visual lift without maintenance.

Some seniors in retirement communities Phoenix enjoy keeping a tiny herb pot by the kitchen sink, which not only brightens the area but also adds flavor to simple meals.

MorningStar at Jordan Offers Luxury Assisted Living

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As a vibrant 55+ community, MorningStar Assisted Living at Jordan offers stylish suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Suites are equipped with kitchenettes, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems and private heating & air conditioning. Basic cable TV and utilities are included as is weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen service and daily spot cleaning. 

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

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

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

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

We are located south of Denver in historic Centennial, Colorado, near medical facilities, restaurants, shopping and other services. Please contact us for more information and to schedule a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Jordan’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care in Centennial, CO.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Balance Begins to Decline Around Age Fifty

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Falls among senior citizens are all too common, and in many cases, threaten a person’s independence and way of life. Injuries from falls include to the head, hip fractures, and in extreme cases lead to death; and poor balance is one of the reasons people fall.

Experts explain a person’s balance declines with age due to loss of sensory elements, the ability to integrate information and issue motor commands; and loss of musculoskeletal function as well as poor vision and inner ear problems. Certain medications and common medical conditions in older adults can also cause problems. Balance begins to decline in midlife, starting at about age 50. In one study, adults in their 30s and 40s could stand on one foot for a minute or more. By age 50, the time decreased to 45 seconds.

The National Institute on Aging (NIH) explains maintaining good balance as you age and learning about fall prevention can help you get around, stay independent, and carry out daily activities. Targeted exercises like walking, strength training and workouts designed to improve stability are some of the best ways to improve balance. Consult with your doctor as to whether a physical therapist or other professional could help design suitable exercises to improve your balance.

Also talk to your doctor about any dietary changes you should make if your balance problems are due to high or low blood pressure. Something as simple as eating less salt, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising may help with high blood pressure.

If you have low blood pressure and experience dizziness, do not stand up too quickly, drink plenty of fluids such as water and avoid alcohol. Your doctor may need to evaluate if it is safe to for you to drive. To reduce your risk of falling, avoid walking in the dark, wear low-heeled, rubber-soled shoes; and if you need a mobility aid such as a cane or walker, use it.

MorningStar Assisted Living at Jordan is designed to meet the needs of residents with 24/7 senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Our suites come in a variety of floors plans and feature a kitchenette, private temperature control and an emergency call system.  Amenities include a bistro, fitness center, salon, game room, theatre, all-season porches, fireside patio and more. If you are considering memory care in Centennial, Colorado, 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. Contact us for more information about one of the finest assisted living communities in Centennial, CO.

Early Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Increases Treatment Options

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The Medical News Today says too many people do not get diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and related neurodegenerative diseases until they are in the advanced stages; thereby limiting their prevention and treatment options. Medical professionals say although the disease has typically been categorized as primarily a movement disorder, new research finds executive function may be a major factor in determining its progression. Executive function is defined as a broad group of mental skills enabling people to complete tasks and interact with others. Disordered executive function impairs a person’s ability to organize and manage behavior.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation the top 10 signs of the disease are:

  • Tremors

  • Small handwriting

  • Loss of smell

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Trouble moving or walking

  • Constipation

  • A soft or low voice

  • Masked face (looking depressed or mad)

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Stooping or hunching over

If you have any of these signs, you should see your healthcare provider. He or she may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in the brain as well as other specialists. Experts say there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but rather your treatment will be tailored to address your own special needs and is usually a team effort. Based on your symptoms, treatment may include seeing a physical, speech or occupational therapist; medications and exercises.

Research also suggests a strong link between those who experience what is known as “minor hallucinations” early on in the disease to a more rapid loss of executive function as well as cognitive decline in the later stages. Minor hallucinations involve the senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste. These include seeing someone who is not there or seeing a face or object in something like a cloud or a carpet. It is important to let your doctor know if you are experiencing any hallucinations.    

At MorningStar at Jordan, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social well-being. Our beautiful assisted living community provides everything residents need to age in place safely and comfortably. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to see what sets us apart from other memory care and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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 assisted living communities in Centennial, CO.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/minor-hallucinations-may-be-an-early-sign-of-parkinsons-related-cognitive-decline

Just Three Nights of Poor Sleep Can Negatively Impact Your Heart Health

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In recent years researchers have focused on the many benefits of a good night’s sleep. Now a study appearing on the Medical News Today websitereports that even three consecutive nights of poor sleep can adversely affect our health. The study from Uppsala University examined how lack of sleep affects the body, with a focus on heart health. Their finding concluded that biomarkers associated with inflammation and heart health increased after just three nights of little sleep.

Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, said the results are not surprising as poor sleep can negatively impact numerous health factors. In addition to cardiovascular health, he explains it can negatively impact endocrine and immune functioning.

With an abundance of research regarding the importance of sleep, what can people who have problems getting to sleep or sleeping through the night do to improve sleep patterns? Suggestions include adopting better sleep habits like reducing nicotine and caffeine along with limiting blue light devices several hours before bedtime, adopting routine bedtimes, and keeping the room dark.

Using a sleep tracker may also help you to understand your sleeping behavior and detect trends in your sleep cycle; and if appropriate, the data can be shared with your doctor. Sleep trackers generally use an instrument called an accelerometer to track movement and an algorithm interprets the data to provide an overview of a person’s sleep patterns. Some devices also include a heart rate monitor. A 2018 study suggests that sleep trackers can accurately track total sleep time and time spent in bed. However, while not as effective as sleep studies in detecting when people wake up, researchers say “sleep trackers are a valid way for people to track their sleeping habits and note that these devices may become more accurate as technology advances.”

The devices can also help identify possible health issues such as sleep apnea, lung disease, heart disease and diabetes. It is important to note sleep disturbances can also play a role in the onset or exacerbation of various mental health conditions like anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. Talk to your healthcare provider about ongoing sleep problems.

MorningStar at North Ridge offers families trusted, compassionate memory care in Albuquerque. We create an individualized care plan for each resident to address personal needs and provide a gentle flow of purposeful activities.  We elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve.  Please visit our website for more information about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our dementia 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 memory care in Albuquerque, NM.

Holiday Celebrations When a Loved One has Alzheimer’s Disease

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The Alzheimer’s Association warns families not to expect too much from a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease during the holiday season.  They explain that “The holidays are often filled with sharing, laughter and memories, but they can also bring stress, disappointment or sadness.” Their website offers tips and ideas to adjust and adapt for a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Start by going over holiday celebrations with other relatives and close friends and make sure everyone is aware of the situation. The National Institute on Aging cautions that big, crowded celebrations can cause confusion and anxiety for a person with dementia so you may want to limit the number of people gathered at any one time.  

Involve the person with Alzheimer’s in safe, simple activities such as asking them to help prepare food, hang ornaments, or to wrap packages.  This can be a nice time for them to open up and reminisce about the old days.  It is best to avoid using candies or other edibles as decorations and keep in mind that blinking lights may confuse a person with dementia.   

Also, maintain the person’s routine so the holidays do not become too disruptive or confusing, and remember to stay flexible.  Experts say it may be better to have your celebratory meal at noon rather than in the evening as some people with Alzheimer’s experience evening confusion or “sundowning.” Keep a room available where the person can go and rest if they are feeling too stimulated or confused.  Here you can have a quiet activity laid out for them such as a photo album they will enjoy looking through or play calming music. 

MorningStar at North Ridge lovingly provides memory care for seniors with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. We are a team of compassionate professionals who feel privileged to serve our special residents.  We also consider supporting family members as part of our job as we understand that dementia can be a challenging journey. Visit our website for more information about our exceptional Alzheimers care community. 

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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest Alzheimers care in Albuquerque.

Blood Test Approved to Aid in the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

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It is estimated that Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common form of dementia, will significantly rise in the coming years. While there is no cure, there have been strides made in both diagnostic tools and medications. 

One of those advancements is an Alzheimer’s blood test that was approved in May by the FDA to help aid in diagnosis. The test, from Fujirebio Diagnostics, looks for abnormal levels of amyloid and tau proteins in the blood. These accumulations that occur in the brain are referred to as plaque, and are hallmark signs of Alzheimer’s.  Experts say the blood test’s prediction of the disease has an approximately 90 percent accuracy rate.  

The other good news is the new test is less invasive as well as less costly than previous tests used to diagnose patients with Alzheimer’s such as PET scans and spinal taps. It also helps to rule out other reasons for a person’s cognitive decline. With FDA approval, experts say the new test will be commonly used in symptomatic patients. 

The test is currently approved for people with symptoms of cognitive impairment aged 55 years and older. As we know the medications used to treat Alzheimer’s work best in the early stages of the disease but do have significant side effects, a patient would not want to take them before ruling out other causes of memory impairment. Moreover, although Alzheimer’s starts in a person’s brain years earlier than symptoms appear, the new test is not currently approved for healthy people who would like to rule out a later diagnosis or those that are simply curious.

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we offer compassionate memory care to those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our community not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also encourages and supports choice and independence whenever possible.  Residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills, and art, as well as outings and special events. Above all, MorningStar residents are treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted dementia care in Albuquerque.

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 satisfaction that is second to none. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care facility in Albuquerque, NM.

Meeting Care Needs as Alzheimer’s Disease Progresses

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Luckily the progression of some cases of Alzheimer’s disease can be modestly slowed down with medication. These medicines tend to be most effective for people in the early to moderate stages of the disease. The Mayo Clinic explains while medications do not cure or stop the damage being done by the disease, they can help healthy brain cells work as well as they can. 

They explain it is critical that the person and their caregivers work with a healthcare team to review symptoms and change treatments when needed. At some point medications stop working and families may need to have plans in place to care for the person especially if their safety is at risk, they are falling or have unattended access to appliances. Other indications include realizing your loved one is having trouble with daily personal tasks such as eating, bathing and properly taking their medications.   

Losing weight can be a sign the person is forgetting to eat or needs supervision to eat. Also, a family caregiver may feel overwhelmed by the level of care the person now needs, particularly if they are becoming agitated and/or aggressive; or if they need care 24 hours a day. 

For many families the solution is a dedicated Alzheimer’s care community where the person can receive the services and care they need in a loving environment. At MorningStar at North Ridge in Albuquerque, we compassionately provide all-inclusive, holistic memory care with the goal to enhance quality of life for our residents.  

Every aspect of our alzheimers 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. In addition, we provide access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers. Please visit our website for more information and to set up a tour.

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. Contact us to learn more about the finest Alzheimers care in Albuquerque, NM.