Aging and Cognition

It is no secret that aging brings with it changes many of us experience including not being as sharp as we were when younger. Many seniors say they find it more difficult to multitask, have trouble recalling names and finding the right word. Some complain about a decline in their ability to concentrate, absorb, process, and remember new information. 

On the positive side, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says studies have found various strengths of seniors such as having a wider vocabulary and a greater depth of understanding of the meaning of words than younger adults. Moreover, most are capable of learning new skills (it may take longer), and forming new memories. Another advantage older adults have over their younger counterparts is a wealth of life experience and accumulated knowledge. 

However, researchers are trying to figure out why some seniors stay cognitively healthy longer than others, and if our lifestyle habits protect our brains as we age. For now evidence shows certain parts of our brains do shrink as we age, especially those areas associated with learning; and parts of our brain may not communicate with one another as well as when we were younger. In addition, blood flow may decrease, while inflammation increases, and causes problems. 

We do know some people live well into their 80s, 90s and beyond with sharp cognitive skills, and defy the widely held view of seniors’ declining abilities. NIA-supported researchers call these lucky few “super agers,” and define them as “people age 80 years and older who have performance on memory tests comparable to people two to three decades younger.” While we are not sure why super agers retain such strong cognitive skills, scientists say it could be they started out with a larger, more robust brain. 

If you are considering senior living communities in the Denver area, MorningStar at Jordan may be your answer. MorningStar’s assisted living allows older adults to comfortably age in a beautiful and vibrant environment while getting help with the activities of daily living. Residents enjoy stylish suites, luxury amenities, wellness programs and a community of friends.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic care to those with memory impairment.To experience MorningStar up close, contact us to schedule a visit to memory care Centennial.  

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 assisted living facility in Centennial, CO.

Traditional Medicare Doesn’t Cover Everything

Many seniors new to Medicare have questions about the scope of coverage under the program. Experts explain traditional Medicare covers most health care needs including hospital care, doctor visits and lab tests. However, some services and medical devices are not covered.

While Medicare covers treatment and doctor visits regarding medical problems in the ears; many seniors are surprised to learn it does not cover hearing aids. In 2017 a bill was passed that allows hearing aids to be sold over the counter without a prescription for people with mild to moderate hearing loss; greatly reducing the cost.

Eye exams, glasses and contact lenses are also not covered under traditional Medicare. Medicare does cover things like cataract surgery and other medical conditions of the eye. If you are concerned about the cost of glasses and exams, vision insurance is available. The same goes for most dental care, and there are additional plans out there to help cover the cost of dental work. 

If you travel out of the country, you need to know that Medicare will not cover any of your medical care. Travelers may purchase a Medigap policy that covers certain overseas medical costs; or check into travel insurance policies offering basic health care. Some seniors opt to pay upfront for emergency medical evacuation insurance. 

Other types of services not covered by Medicare are podiatry, massage therapy and chiropractic care. While short-term rehabilitation services are covered, Medicare does not cover long-term care in a nursing home. 

MorningStar at Jordan is one of MorningStar’s nine senior living communities in the Denver area.  Assisted living residents enjoy carefree retirement years in beautiful surroundings with amenities including five-star dining, fitness center, theater, chapel, life enrichment area, wellness programs and activities.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides all the services required to meet the diverse needs of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Contact us to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour in memory care Centennial.

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

The Importance of Quality Sleep for Older Adults

Experts say it is a myth that older adults do not need as much sleep as they did when they were younger. Studies show at least seven hours a night of sleep is critical to brain health and cognitive health. If you consistently wake up several times during the night and still wake up early every day, it may be time to make changes to your nightly routine. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports due to sleep disturbances that frequently come with age, many seniors get less REM sleep. REM is an important cycle in our sleep and includes the period in which we dream. It is also believed to help consolidate memory. In addition, during our deep sleep cycle, the brain purges toxins and waste products including amyloid beta, which can gradually clump together to form amyloid plaques, found in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. 

A chronic lack of sleep can affect a person’s mood. The magazine, Frontiers in Physiology, published a report citing 6 studies showing less than 7 hours of sleep a night in older adults was linked to a higher risk for depression. Psychological Medicine reports on another study of adults who were on average age 72 who frequently said they woke during the night. It found participants were more likely to report a depressed mood. 

The Mayo Clinic has a few tips to help you sleep through the night such as going to bed and getting up around the same time each day. They caution about going to sleep hungry or very full and to eat at least a few hours before bedtime. Also, watch your consummation of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine products a couple of hours before bedtime. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet, and refrain from viewing light-emitting screens right before sleep. They say it is important to manage your stress levels and to try and get some exercise each day.  

MorningStar Jordan is an assisted living and memory care community with a range of onsite amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement yExperts say it is a myth that older adults do not need as much sleep as they did when they were younger. Studies show at least seven hours a night of sleep is critical to brain health and cognitive health. If you consistently wake up several times during the night and still wake up early every day, it may be time to make changes to your nightly routine. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports due to sleep disturbances that frequently come with age, many seniors get less REM sleep. REM is an important cycle in our sleep and includes the period in which we dream. It is also believed to help consolidate memory. In addition, during our deep sleep cycle, the brain purges toxins and waste products including amyloid beta, which can gradually clump together to form amyloid plaques, found in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. 

A chronic lack of sleep can affect a person’s mood. The magazine, Frontiers in Physiology, published a report citing 6 studies showing less than 7 hours of sleep a night in older adults was linked to a higher risk for depression. Psychological Medicine reports on another study of adults who were on average age 72 who frequently said they woke during the night. It found participants were more likely to report a depressed mood. 

The Mayo Clinic has a few tips to help you sleep through the night such as going to bed and getting up around the same time each day. They caution about going to sleep hungry or very full and to eat at least a few hours before bedtime. Also, watch your consummation of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine products a couple of hours before bedtime. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet, and refrain from viewing light-emitting screens right before sleep. They say it is important to manage your stress levels and to try and get some exercise each day.  

MorningStar Jordan is an assisted living and memory care community with a range of onsite amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour.  Not only is our team happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from the other assisted living facility in Centennial, Colorado.

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 assisted livingand memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379ears. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour.  Not only is our team happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from the other assisted living facility in Centennial, Colorado.

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 assisted livingand memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379

What is Sundowner’s Syndrome?

The Alzheimer’s Association explains, “sundowner’s syndrome” or “sundowning” is a set of symptoms or behaviors that are found in some people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The syndrome’s symptoms include agitation and anxiety, and it occurs in the later part of the day and evening with marked behavior changes in the person.

Fred Kobylarz, MD, co-director of the Center for Healthy Aging at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School says it is not a disease, but rather a symptom of dementia. While doctors do not know the cause of sundowning, they believe it may be a “combination of hormonal changes, brain deterioration or damage that has occurred, environmental factors, disruption to a person’s circadian rhythm, and more.”

The syndrome may start as early as 1 p.m. in some people but usually it is later in the day. Along with agitation and anxiety; symptoms can include things like pacing, disorientation, hallucinations and problems sleeping. Other behavior changes may include angry outbursts and aggressive, sometimes even physical altercations. Others just want to be closer to a person they trust as needed reassurance. Some people do not remember what happened earlier in the day and even forget they just ate dinner and want to eat again. 

Experts say in some cases sundowning starts before a person has had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. However, it is not only found in people with dementia as some older adults exhibit symptoms during an illness or period of delirium.    

Doctors recommend families who see symptoms of sundowning to consult with their healthcare provider to rule out other causes. Guidelines for managing the syndrome include setting up a schedule that adheres to their needs and maintaining a consistent daily routine to reduce confusion and fatigue. During morning hours encourage the person to do activities that increase their exposure to natural light to help support better sleep-wake cycles. Avoid over stimulating the person in the evenings and don’t subject them to crowds, bright screens or loud noises. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan offers 29 suites for residents with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to enhance our residents’ freedom and fully accommodate the disposition and behaviors of those with dementia. Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in meaningful wellness programs and purposeful activities.  Our programs include a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar at Jordan and our holistic approach to 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 satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living facility and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Source: womenshealthmag.com/health/a63084354/sundowning-dementia-sign/

Chronic Knee Pain

As we age, our knees take a beating. We use them to walk, stand and climb stairs, and they are used when we get up from a sitting or lying position. When our knees hurt, everyday tasks are harder to do. Chronic knee pain is often a form of arthritis that occurs when the cushioning cartilage protecting the knee joints starts to wear down. As more cartilage wears away, the space between the bones narrows resulting in bone rubbing against bone.   

Knee arthritis is a deteriorating condition, and in addition to pain, can cause deformities such as knock knees or bowlegs. Experts explain there are three forms of arthritis that affect the knee. The first is a degenerative joint disease called osteoarthritis; another is the autoimmune disease known as rheumatoid arthritis; and finally post-traumatic knee arthritis that happens with a history of injury or trauma.

Factors increasing your risk for knee arthritis include the wear and tear that comes from age, being overweight, heredity, gender, and health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, hemochromatosis (high levels of iron in the blood) and vitamin D deficiency. Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis, severity of pain, a person’s age and other factors. Non-surgical treatments include injections, walking aids and bracing. Surgical treatments include total and partial knee replacements along with other solutions. If you experience chronic knee pain, talk to your doctor about a personalized plan to address your needs. 

MorningStar at Jordan offers stylish options for assisted living with 55 bright suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care and our property in Centennial, Colorado.

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

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-arthritis

Supporting a Friend During Their Grief

Many of us have watched a good friend go through the grieving process after losing a loved one and have been frustrated by not being able to do more to comfort them. Experts explain this is a common feeling and provide some suggestions to help.

One of the first things to remember is everyone experiences grief in their own way. Heather L. McGinty, assistant professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, explains grief triggers a range of emotions, sensations and behaviors and can be complex. 

A person’s emotions may swing from tearfulness to anger or denial, and as a friend, it can be hard to know what to say. Loneliness, betrayal, fear and acceptance are some of the other emotions grief brings up. Some people even experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches. 

If you want to help, grief counselors say to first make sure the person wants it; and recommend asking if they want the type of support you hope to offer, such as spending time with them. Some people are very private and prefer to grieve in their own way. The most important thing is to be supportive of their wishes and be prepared to listen rather than hand out advice. Also, be specific like letting them know you want to take them to lunch when they are ready, or bring over a meal, run errands or do some yardwork. 

Experts say avoid telling the person you know how they feel. Again, everyone experiences grief differently. Even if you don’t understand the way the person is acting out their grief, be supportive not judgmental. Lastly, don’t say things like “everything happens for a reason” or “they are in a better place.” If you think they would benefit from professional support, be sure to encourage it.  

If you are considering an assisted living facility in the Denver area, we invite you to schedule a tour of MorningStar at Jordan. Our beautiful home offers stylish assisted living suites in a range of floor plans and configurations.  Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite amenities, all-day dining, and built-in companionship. Visit our website for more information about MorningStar memory care and our community in Centennial.

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 senior living communities in Centennial, CO.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/ways-to-help-a-loved-one-grieve?

Stroke: Common Yet Frequently Misunderstood

Stroke is a common medical event. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports each year over 795,000 people in the United States suffer from a stroke, and of that number, around 610,000 are first strokes. Statistics show stroke to be the second leading cause of death worldwide; and experts say while common, stroke is often misunderstood. 

One of the first misconceptions is that stroke is caused by a problem of the heart. Doctors explain strokes occur when there is a blockage or rupture of arteries or veins in the brain, not in the heart. 

The second most important thing to know about stroke is in many cases it is preventable. The most common risk factors include hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, trauma to the head or neck, and cardiac arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, avoiding smoking and exercising can help lessen your risk for a stroke. Managing stress and watching your consummation of alcohol can additionally reduce the risk. 

Another thing many people do not know about stroke is it is treatable and the faster you get treatment the better the outcome. This is why it is important to pay attention to symptoms such as trouble speaking, double vision, paralysis or numbness. If you do experience symptoms, call an ambulance. Remember stroke does not only occur in the elderly. While your risk for stroke does increase with age, the CDC reports 38% of stroke hospitalizations in 2014 were under the age of 65. 

Not all strokes have symptoms and some are only found through MRIs and other diagnostic tests. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” can be a warning and requires an emergency work-up and management to prevent a possible larger stroke.

MorningStar at Jordan is one of MorningStar’s nine senior living communities in the Denver area.  Located in historic Centennial, we are close to quality medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and outdoor areas. Our beautiful community offers 55 smartly designed assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans. For individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we provide 29 suites devoted to their care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information on memory care.

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 facility in Centennial, CO.

Sources: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-stroke

cdc.gov/stroke/data-research/facts-stats/index.html

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is an Emotional Experience

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear.  Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through.  There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated.  

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward.  They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.”   

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through.  One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy.  They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able.  Finally, they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.”  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan in Centennial, Colorado offers compassionate and loving care to those with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also encourages and supports choice and independence to the fullest extent possible.  Memory care 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.

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 the finest assisted livingand memory care in Centennial, CO.

Meaningful Gift Ideas for Someone With a Memory Loss Disease

We all like to bring our elderly parents or loved ones a gift to show them just how much we care about them. It is often hard to know what to give to a senior, and especially difficult if a loved one is living with dementia.  Experts suggest you help them find ways to reminisce about their lives and accomplishments, and give them things that will bring a smile to their face and some joy into their life.    

Many ideas for someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease include personalized gifts.  One such gift is a talking photo book that allows you to record your own personal commentary to go along with each photograph.  This can be a fun book to sit and enjoy with your family member as it helps to trigger memories and conversation.  Many companies offer such books, and prices typically vary with the number of photos and recording time available.  

Buying an interactive book featuring vivid photographs and large print on a subject your mom or dad loves such as animals or flowers can also promote conversation and provide a way to spend relaxing time together.  To ease stress or agitation, you may want to consider getting them a fiddle muff.  A fiddle muff can provide comfort and warmth as well as activity to promote increased hand flexibility and brain stimulation. 

Another meaningful gift is a cozy, customized blanket filled with photos of the grandkids or a beloved family pet.  On the Internet you can find companies that will do a collage of family photos or a singular one in a variety of materials.  Many of the blankets have surprisingly sharp images and can be machine washed and dried.  

If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help.  Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan offers specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of residents, allowing them as much independence as possible.  Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on our assisted living facility.

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.

THE BEST WARM-UP EXERCISES FOR SENIORS

Staying physically active is a critically important element of living a healthy lifestyle. However, remaining physically active is especially important for older adults. A physically active lifestyle can strengthen bones, improve cardiovascular health, and prevent the decline of cognitive skills. At our senior living center in Denver, Colorado, we offer residents dozens of activities that stimulate the brain and improve the condition of the body.

How you prepare for a physical activity such as yoga, cycling, and pickleball is just as important as participating in the physical activity itself. Warm-up exercises for seniors make a huge difference between getting hurt and remaining injury-free. Getting involved with warm-up exercises not only elevates body temperature, but also prepares the heart, bones, joints, and muscles for an increase in physical exertion.

The key to maximizing the benefits of participating in warm-up exercises is to start slow and gradually increase speed and exertion. Let’s take a look at the best warm-up exercises for seniors at our assisted living facility in Denver.

Calisthenics

Getting the heart to pump faster helps the other areas of the body, as well as increases your stamina for more physically demanding activities. Calisthenics represents the best warm-up exercise for achieving higher heart pumping capacity. The classic stance for calisthenics involves spreading your legs at a standing position, keeping the legs semi-loose, and raising both arms to touch the hands over your head. Then start moving both the arms and legs in sync, while eventually increasing the movement speed of both limbs.

Arm Swings

Arm swings also help encourage a faster, stronger pumping of the heart, with one additional health benefit. This warm-up exercise for seniors also loosens the muscles and tendons located in both arms, which enhances your flexibility. Assume a standing position and then spread the legs a couple of feet apart. Turn your torso to the left and make sure the arms stay loose. Turn the torso from side to side and let the arms swing across the body. This warm-up exercise also produces a gentle twist to activate the spine.

High Knees

Now, the time has arrived to warm up the knees. High-knee warm-up exercises vary in both length and intensity, but the most effective high-knee exercise for seniors involves holding both arms out at waist length and beginning to march slowly while raising each knee to the palms of your hands. You should slowly raise the knees in short increments until they touch both palms, and then increase the speed that you raise the knees. Do between 20 and 30 knee movements, take a minute-long break, and then repeat the knee-raising movements.

Shoulder Rolls

The shoulders are the next part of the body to stretch. Start shoulder rolls by extending your arms at the sides with your feet positioned at shoulder width. Move your shoulders up and down like you shrug when having a conversation. The key is to move the shoulder blades toward each other between eight and 10 times to loosen the muscles and tendons.

Squats

The muscles in the legs need to stretch as well. And you accomplish this by performing the warm-up exercise called squats. Stand tall with the feet moved to shoulder width. Bend your knees slowly like you are about to sit on a stool. Keep the chest upright and repeat the movement between eight and 10 times. You can hold a free weight in each hand to increase resistance.Schedule a tour today to learn how residents stay active at our senior living center in Denver, CO.

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.

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.

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.