What to Expect Before, During, and After a Move to Assisted Living

If you or a loved one plans to move to an assisted living community, congratulations! This move will be a wonderful event in your life. 

It can be intimidating to navigate the moving process to senior living communities. Moving into assisted living is slightly different from moving to a regular house or apartment. 

Here’s what you can expect throughout the moving process — before, during, and after. 

Before the Move

Before you move into assisted living, you and your loved ones should start planning accordingly. 

Store, Give Away, or Sell Extra Belongings

You should expect to downsize your possessions. Most people cannot take everything they own into senior living with them. 

This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of them. If you don’t feel comfortable hosting a sale, you can always get a storage unit. All of your belongings will remain safe and secure there while you decide what to do with them. 

Maybe your children or grandchildren want some of your items. Don’t be afraid to pass on your belongings to those you love the most!

Make a Packing List

Making a packing list is one of the most important steps in moving to an assisted living community. There are many items you might easily overlook if you don’t have a list handy as you pack. 

Make Plans for Loved Ones to Visit 

In-person visits are the best option for connecting with your loved ones after you move. You might feel better if you know the exact days and times they plan to visit for the first few weeks after you move. If in-person visits are not possible, schedule a time to video chat or talk on the phone. 

During the Move

Ask for some extra hands during the moving process. This will be especially helpful if you have limited mobility or other health complications that make moving more difficult. 

The assisted living community you are moving to likely has support in place for new residents. Ask about their moving assistance options and take advantage of any extra help you can get. 

Try not to stress about the moving process too much. You have a supportive community right at your fingertips, and most of them are happy to help you with anything you need. 

After the Move

Now that you’ve settled into your senior living community, it’s time to relax and enjoy it! Get to know the amenities, residents, and helpful staff members who are now a part of your daily life. 
Make sure you keep in touch with your loved ones as much as possible. This will prevent you from feeling lonely or forgotten. 

If you have any questions or concerns, talk to the appropriate staff members to get them resolved. You are not alone. 

Make the Most of Your Move

Moving into assisted living can be exciting and rejuvenating. Make the most of this new season of your life as you explore the people and places around you!

Would Mom or Dad be Better Off in Assisted Living?

When asked, many seniors say they would prefer to age in place in their own homes, but at some point, a family may have to consider if there isn’t a better, safer option for them. Assisted living communities are designed for people who are largely independent but require some daily care. They offer residents many benefits such as peace of mind knowing help is there whenever they need it, access to licensed nurses, medication management and transportation to doctor’s appointments. 

The range of activities is typically broad with something to appeal to everyone. Whether you are a movie buff who loves classic films, a trivia expert or a budding artist who would love the chance to explore their creative side, assisted living makes it easy to stay involved. Many communities also have fitness centers and exercise classes tailored to seniors as well as large outdoor areas perfect for taking a stroll or sitting out on the patio with friends. 

Safety and security is a big deal to seniors and living in an assisted community give you both. Communities are designed to meet the needs of residents dealing with mobility issues, and offer ramps, flat thresholds, wide corridors and hallway hand railings. Handicap accessible bathrooms are another bonus of assisted living. 

Studies show seniors who are isolated and lack socialization are at risk for dementia, and community living offers a vibrant lifestyle without much effort. Other perks include healthy, balanced meals seniors no longer need to cook. 

Remember your parents have worked hard all their lives to provide for others and it is time to think about their happiness and well-being. At MorningStar at Observatory Park, we offer seniors the finest assisted living to allow them to live life to the fullest. Along with 60 private, assisted living suites, we offer an array of luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs and activities. Located in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver, the area is home to mature trees, lovely gardens, eclectic eateries, local coffee shops and a brewery. Additionally we are close to two major hospitals, Porter Adventist Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center.

For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our 2nd floor Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents. Please visit our website to learn more about our new community, and contact us to ask about availability and pricing.

6 Benefits of Keeping an Active Lifestyle While in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities are essential for many older adults who require ongoing care, but living in one of these retirement communities does not mean you have to forego an active lifestyle. Staying active and getting regular exercise are important for residents of senior living communities, and such activity provides various benefits. 

Below, discover just five of the advantages of leading an active life while in assisted living:

1. Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Concerns

Cardiovascular issues, such as strokes and heart attacks, are a serious health concern for older adults, but getting regular exercise is one of the best ways to lower your risk of these crises, as physical activity can address high cholesterol and high blood pressure, two of the major causes of cardiovascular events.

2. Maintains Healthy Weight

Sustaining a healthy weight can be hard for seniors, especially those in assisted living or retirement communities. As such, it is important that you stay active, regardless of where you live, to stay at an optimal weight. Taking a daily walk with others around your senior living community can help you stay on track with your weight and remain healthy.

3. Improves Mental Health

Leading an active lifestyle offers benefits that go beyond physical feelings. Getting regular exercise has been shown to improve overall mental health, especially among older adults in retirement communities. By exercising with friends and family members, you’ll experience a significant boost in endorphins, which keep you in a happy mood.

4. Enhances Bone Strength

As you age, you may struggle with weak bones or an increased risk of bone damage, but staying active and getting regular exercise can help enhance your bone strength and make them less susceptible to fractures.

5. Provides Recreational Activities

A common concern surrounding assisted living is the feeling of boredom derived from having a lack of activities to do. Leading an active lifestyle and getting regular exercise provides an easy way to participate in recreational activities. In fact, many retirement communities offer fitness classes and exercise programs for seniors to join.

6. Reduces Certain Cognitive Concerns

Cognitive concerns, such as the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease, are prevalent among residents of assisted living communities. One way to slow the progression of these conditions is by staying active and getting frequent exercise.

Staying Healthy in Assisted Living

When you or a loved one enter assisted living, it is important to stay healthy by means of regular exercise. Some people may feel that it is impossible to stay active in retirement communities, but that is simply not the case. There are many ways to lead an active lifestyle in senior living communities, such as fitness programs and recreational activities. 
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Leading an active lifestyle provides a variety of benefits to senior adults, including improved mental health, enhanced bone strength, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Why More and More Adults Are Making the Move to Retirement Communities

Retirement is the time to explore new hobbies, meet new people, and do the things you didn’t have time to do while you were working. But many older adults find it difficult to take full advantage of their retirement years while living at home.

More adults than ever before are moving to retirement communities to experience the benefits of senior living.

Benefits of Moving to Senior Living Communities

Every person has their own reasons for moving to an assisted living community, but some are almost universal.

Improved Safety and Security

Accidents can happen to anyone, and as people age, they become more prone to mishaps. Seniors who live alone may not receive the help they need if a household injury occurs. Retirement communities offer the opportunity to live among others and receive nursing care and supervision if needed.

Activity Opportunities

Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle isn’t always easy for seniors who live by themselves. A retirement community provides exercise and socialization opportunities, including physical fitness centers, yoga classes, golf outings, walking, and water aerobics. 

In addition, these opportunities are also often tailored to the needs of seniors who have limited mobility or other health concerns.

Access to Transportation For many older adults, transportation is a big concern. Even if they are still able to drive themselves, many don’t feel safe doing so. Assisted living communities provide transportation for residents not just for medical appointments but also for shopping outings and other activities.

Personal Care Options

Activities of daily living can become more difficult to carry out as people age, but senior living communities have staff members who are ready to help. They can assist residents with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and other daily needs. This assistance helps residents maintain their hygiene, independence, and self-esteem.

Low-Maintenance Lifestyle

Many daily maintenance tasks are a part of life when a person is living on their own, from mowing the lawn to vacuuming carpets and everything in between. Living in a retirement community eliminates these tasks. Instead, staff members will take care of maintenance and chores, leaving time for residents to enjoy their life more. 

Access to Community Amenities

Most people don’t have access to hot tubs, hair salons, walking paths, or tennis courts at their homes, but when they live in a retirement community, they do! These communities have an immense assortment of amenities for residents to take advantage of, from exercise equipment and business centers with computers to swimming pools and nail salons.

Why Are More Adults Moving to Senior Living Facilities?

There are so many benefits to living in assisted living communities that it can be hard to find reasons not to! From safety and security to assistance with cooking and hygiene to superior amenities, the perks these communities provide are amazing.

What To Expect When Moving Your Loved One Into an Assisted Living Facility - Part 2

There are a number of things to consider when making the decision to move a loved one into an assisted living facility. The most important thing is to ensure that the facility you choose is the right fit for your loved one’s needs.

A New Routine

After your loved one moves in, it is important to establish a daily routine. This will help your loved one to develop a sense of normality and comfort in their new environment. It is important to set and maintain regular visiting hours. This will help to keep your relationship with your loved one strong and will be beneficial for both parties. Encourage positive activities such as taking part in the activities offered by the facility or going for walks in the garden. Spend quality time with your loved one and try to make them feel at home.

The Staff and Care Team

Most assisted living facilities will have an on-site staff and care team to assist residents in their day-to-day activities. The team is there to make sure that your loved one is comfortable and getting the best possible care. They can also provide information and support with any medical or care needs that may arise. It is important to have a good rapport with the staff and care team, as they will be the ones taking care of your loved one.

Building a Community

Most assisted living facilities have regular activities and events that help create a sense of community. Making friends and building relationships can help to make the transition easier. Encourage your loved one to take part in the activities that are being offered and introduce them to the other residents. This can help create a stronger bond and will help them feel more at ease in their new home.

Staying Connected

Moving a loved one into an assisted living facility does not mean that you will no longer be involved in their life. In fact, it can provide an opportunity for you to have more quality time together. There are many ways to stay connected with your loved one: Make regular visits, call them on the phone, or send them cards or letters. This will help to keep the communication open and will show your loved one that you still care. Overall, transitioning your loved one into an assisted living facility can be a difficult but rewarding experience. It is important to take the time to research the facilities in your area, visit a few, and get to know the staff and care team. It is also important to set up a daily routine, create a sense of community, and stay connected with your loved one. With the right preparation and support, your loved one can have a safe and comfortable transition.

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

What To Expect When Moving Your Loved One Into an Assisted Living Facility - Part 1

Making the decision to move a loved one into an assisted living facility is never easy. It can be a difficult and emotional time for both you and your loved one, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone – there are many people who have gone through this experience and can offer support and advice.

In this article, we will provide an overview of what you can expect when making the transition to an assisted living facility. We will also offer some tips on how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

The Decision to Move

Moving a loved one into an assisted living facility is a difficult one. It is important to take the time to discuss the move with your loved one, giving them the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. It is also important to consider their overall health and care needs. Do they require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, eating, and dressing? Do they need help managing their medications or chronic health conditions? Are they a danger to themselves or others around them? It is also important to include them in the decision-making process to some extent. Give them the freedom to choose their own room or find activities to keep them busy. You may even want to go and visit a facility together before making any final decisions.

Picking the Right Facility

Selecting the right facility is key to ensuring a successful transition. It is important to research facilities in your area and visit a few to get a better sense of their services and offerings. When visiting the facilities, ask questions about the staff, the services offered, and the facility itself. It is also important to consider the cost and what type of financial assistance is available. In addition, take some time to meet with some of the other residents to get a better sense of the community and overall atmosphere of the facility. This will help you to make an informed decision about the best fit for your loved one.

The Move-In Day

Once you have found the right facility, it will be time to start packing. Depending on the size of the facility and the climate of the area, you may want to bring extra clothes, blankets, and necessities such as shampoo, toothpaste, and soap. Move-in day can be a difficult but exciting time. Be sure to give yourself and your loved one plenty of time to get settled. Don’t rush the process and take your time to get familiar with the surroundings. Be sure to bring meaningful items, such as photographs or items from home to create a sense of familiarity and comfort. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff and other residents questions, as they will be able to help make the transition smoother.

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

Why Choose Senior Living?

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

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

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

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

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

Need Trusted Memory Care for a Loved One?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: 

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

Have Questions About the New MorningStar of San Jose?

At MorningStar of San Jose we understand that looking at assisted living communities and deciding which one is right for you is a big step for a senior.  This is why we encourage interested families to give us a call to discuss any questions you may have.  In addition, our website is filled with lots of pertinent information regarding amenities, services, enrichment programs and more.  We are scheduled to open in June 2023 and are currently offering exclusive savings to early depositors.

Our website even has a dedicated page for FAQs under our “First Steps” tab.  Here you will find answers to commonly asked questions such as age requirements (in our assisted living and memory care suites, you must be at least 55 years old).  You will also discover important information on how a resident’s level of care is determined and our pricing structure.  

FAQs include practical queries such as, yes, we will help you find a physician if you need one whether it is a primary care doctor or a specialty healthcare provider like an occupational therapist or physical therapist. And yes, we do provide transportation to doctor appointments as needed, and our transportation vehicles can accommodate a walker or wheelchair. 

You and your family may also want to know about the type of training our staff receives, and we go over that too.   Care Managers complete an orientation program (including a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, 8-hour dementia training, and ongoing training in specific care needs.  Each of our Medication Managers (QMAPs) is additionally trained in medication administration.   

FAQs go over senior housing options such as Companion Living that allows two unrelated adults of the same sex to share a suite, and of course, married couples are welcome!  MorningStar of San Jose will also offer short-term stays based on availability that allows someone to get an idea of whether senior living is right for them. 

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