4 Activities to Help Seniors Fight the Winter Blues

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

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

1. Throw a Classic Dance Party

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

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

2. Host a Puzzle Party

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

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

3. Turn On Festive Holiday Movies 

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

4. Spa Days Full of Pampering

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

Best Ways to Combat Winter Depression in Seniors

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

Don’t be Rushed Out of the Hospital before You are Ready

A University of Michigan study reports, “About 15% of hospitalized older adults will be readmitted within a month of discharge.” It found a disproportionately high number of seniors returning for preexisting, or linked infection that presumably had been treated during their initial hospital stay. This includes people who leave when they are actually still too sick, or do not understand the next steps in their care such as when to change wound dressings or how to take new medications. 

While hospitals are under pressure to discharge patients as insurances don’t want people in any longer than necessary as well as sick patients are waiting to be admitted, discharging someone too soon just to return to the emergency room or be readmitted is not the answer. Not only is it more costly, but most importantly it can be dangerous to the person’s health.  

Patients and/or their families need to advocate for the person to make sure several criteria are met before they are discharged. Experts say this should include things like knowing you can tolerate the new medication ordered by the doctor, having the proper home care in place, and getting the appropriate referrals for follow-up care. Throughout the hospital stay the patient or family should receive education regarding their condition and treatments. Lastly the patient needs to fully understand the signs to look for at home that things are not going well and when to alert their health care provider or seek emergency treatment.     

The new MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living and memory care community is opening this spring to residents and offers all of the senior care and hospitality services, amenities and wellness programs to give residents the best quality of life. Our stunning new community’s 60 assisted living suites include studio and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers 23 suites. 

If the MorningStar name sounds familiar, we have over 40 retirement communities around the Western US including several in and around Denver and have just celebrated our 20th anniversary. To reserve your select suite today, please visit our website for contact information and to ask for availability and pricing.

Source:news.umich.edu/too-many-older-adults-readmitted-to-hospitals-with-same-infections-they-took-home/

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease

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

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

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

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

MorningStar at Observatory Park is getting ready to open its doors to residents. Our beautiful retirement communities offer 60 assisted living suites in a selection of studio to one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For your comfort and convenience, amenities include a full salon, bistro, club rooms, art studio, fitness center and more. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, our Reflections Neighborhood has 23 suites. Please contact us with any questions and to secure your select suite.   
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Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/medical_tests

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.

Thinking About Buying a Hearing Aid Over-the-Counter?

Did you know the FDA recently made changes to regulations regarding hearing aids, which now makes it possible to buy an FDA approved device over-the-counter? While many of us have heard about the huge cost of buying a hearing aid and that Medicare typically does not cover one, you may want to know whether the experts think it is a good idea. 

The Harvard Medical School went to Dr. James Naples, assistant professor of otolaryngology/head and neck surgery at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to see if it is a viable option and to explain potential pros and cons. He explains despite there being several types of hearing aids, they all amplify sound and use a combination of signaling processing and directional microphones to filter out background noise. However he warns against confusing personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) with hearing aids as they only amplify sound. 

To determine your level of hearing loss, experts recommend starting by getting a hearing test from an audiologist like you would get an exam from an optometrist when buying eyeglasses. This is especially necessary for a severe hearing loss. For a mild to moderate hearing loss, you will probably be okay getting an OTC device without a hearing test by an audiologist. 

The next question routinely asked is if you will save money by purchasing an OTC hearing aid and the answer is most-likely yes as right now the average hearing aid runs anywhere between $2,000 to $4,000 per ear, and age-related hearing loss may be in one or both ears. OTC also helps reduce the price by eliminating the added expense of the hearing test along with the actual device being substantially lower. Doctors say the new regulations should increase competition and some early estimates are prices could drop by as much as $1,600. 

Dr. Naples cautions that just as drugstore readers are a great option for many, some individuals have more complicated issues that require more precise solutions. Hearing aids are the same. The doctor states the safest bet is to get a hearing test first. 

MorningStar at Observatory Park is one of the finest retirement communities in the Denver area and offers assisted living and memory care. We open to residents in spring 2023 and our premium suites are filling up fast. Contact us today to ask about availability and pricing as well as exclusive savings for early depositors. 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/blog/should-you-get-an-over-the-counter-hearing-aid-202211162852?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BF20230116-Hearing&utm_id=4645656&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=4645656

Experts Vote on Best 2023 Diets

The U.S. News & World Report says statistics show that while over half of all Americans followed a diet in the past year, only 20 percent of them were able to keep the weight off for more than 12 months. Moreover according to the International Food Information Council, consumers in the U.S. spend 33 billion dollars annually on their diet plan. 

This prompted the U.S. News & World Report to once again ask a panel of leading medical doctors, registered dietary nutritionists and nutritional epidemiologists specializing in diseases like heart and diabetes as well as weight loss to rate various diets for overall effectiveness. Each diet was rated for healthiness, safety, ease of following and promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle to meet people’s various lifestyles and goals. Also the general consensus is fad diets just don't work and some can even be dangerous.

For the sixth year in a row, the Mediterranean Diet, which follows the eating habits of those surrounding the Mediterranean Sea including Greece and Italy, took first place with high scores for overall health and sustainable as well as weight loss. The diet is based on eating plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables along with whole grains, beans, nuts, seafood, lean poultry and unsaturated fat from extra-virgin olive oil. 

The DASH Diet (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) took second place and is promoted by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. It is intended to stop (or prevent) hypertension, also referred to as high blood pressure. It too endorses a flexible, balanced and heart-healthy eating plan.

Tying the DASH Diet for second place is one you may not be as familiar with. The Flexitarian Diet is the marriage between pure vegetarianism most of the time with occasionally meat, seafood or poultry added on special occasions. Most of the diet’s protein comes from beans, eggs and peas. 

Experts say before you pick a diet, think about what worked or didn’t work for you the last time. Too restrictive diets can be hard to stick to, and the most effective and successful diets typically don’t consider any food off-limit.  

Opening in spring 2023, MorningStar at Observatory Park is located in the desirable South Denver neighborhood just blocks from the iconic Observatory Park. Our senior living community offers assisted living with senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities to enhance quality of life for residents. We also provide 23 memory care suites for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

Morning Star retirement communities are trusted for excellence–and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Visit our website to reserve your select suite today, and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.

Source: health.usnews.com/best-diet/best-diets-overall

Know the Difference between Probiotics and Prebiotics?

The last several years have brought probiotics and prebiotics into the spotlight. However it can be confusing as to what the difference is between the two and the role they play in our bodies. Experts say both are important to our health; probiotics are beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics are food for these bacteria.

In other words, “Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain foods or supplements and can provide numerous health benefits. Prebiotics are substances from types of carbs (mostly fiber) that humans can’t digest. The beneficial bacteria in your gut eat this fiber.”

The Harvard Medical School explains our large intestine has 100 trillion good bacteria essential to our health called microbiome. These good microbes help maintain healthy bowel function. Each person has their own unique microbiome from birth and we add to the good microbes by the food we consume. Although a diet high in sugar and fats can negatively affect gut health by encouraging the growth of bad bacteria, allowing them to grow faster and colonize more easily, without as many helpful bacteria to prevent it from happening. 

Research shows certain foods like yogurt and kefirs with live, active cultures are beneficial to adding to our microbiome. Unpasteurized, fermented foods like kombucha, miso, sauerkraut and sour pickles contain healthy microbes but most packaged fermented foods are pasteurized, which destroys the microbes. The best way to get around that is to look up recipes to ferment foods at home.

Experts say while there are many probiotic supplements on the market, it is not easy to find exactly what you need. Most probiotic supplements contain just a few bacterial strains, compared to the approximately 3,000 or so stains naturally found in the gut. Also some bacteria are better suited to treat certain conditions but a general guideline is to purchase one with both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. 

MorningStar at Observatory Park senior living community is one of the area’s newest retirement communities, and specializes in providing seniors with “a little help” to enable them to live as independently as possible. Our unique location in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area offers both assisted living and memory care.  Visit our website today and ask about savings for early depositors; we open to residents in spring 2023.

Source: healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-and-prebiotics

New Treatments for UTIs

While urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often thought of as a common problem for younger women, experts say UTIs are just as frequent in older women. In fact although statistic show half of all women experience a UTI during their lifetime, Nicole De Nisco, an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Dallas whose lab research focuses on persistent UTIs in postmenopausal women, says recurrent UTIs are actually more common in older women. Recurrent infections are defined as two within six months or three within 12 months, and half of all postmenopausal women will develop recurrent infections. 

Symptoms include pain when urinating and/or pain in the pelvic region, cloudy urine and the need to make frequent trips to the bathroom but can varying from one person to another. Older women may not know they have a UTI as symptoms can range from fatigue to a general malaise, fever, achiness and forgetfulness.  

UTIs are infections in the urinary system and can affect the urethra, bladder, ureters and kidneys. Sixty percent of UTIs in older women occur when bacteria from inside the bowel travel into the urinary tract. Other factors are a decrease in mobility, thinning of the vaginal wall or a vaginal prolapse, and lower levels of estrogen. 

If you had a UTI before the age of 15, you are at risk for frequent UTIs. Doctors encourage patients to try and be infection free for up to six months or more, but if you are symptomatic, see your healthcare provider. New thinking regarding UTIs is to only treat symptomatic infections with antibiotics. In the past, patients were given antibiotics even if they were asymptomatic every time bacteria were found in their urine. Doctors now recognize some bacteria help keep the urinary system healthy. However, consult with your doctor for the best course of treatment.       

Excitement is growing as one of the most desirable retirement communities in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver prepares to open to residents in spring 2023. MorningStar at Observatory Park offers 60 assisted living; and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood, has 23 suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. We look forward to helping you reserve your select suite and to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. 

Source:aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/causes-treatment-uti.html

Easy Ways to Relieve Stress

Most of us experience stress whether it is every once in a while or more consistently. Dr. Shalu Ramchandani, an integrative medicine specialist at the Harvard-affiliated Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains an effective way to handle stress is to follow good health habits. He says this includes getting enough sleep (at least seven hours a night), eating a predominantly plant-based diet, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness and staying socially connected.

When in a stressful situation, take a few minutes to practice a simple breathing exercise, such as taking 10 very slow breaths in and out. Another technique is to imagine yourself in one of your favorite places like sitting on the beach listening to the waves come and go, and feeling a gentle breeze on your face. 

Stretching also relieves stress. Dr. Ramchandani says, "While sitting or standing, inhale and raise your arms overhead, lace your fingers together, stretch, release your fingers, and exhale as you lower your arms to each side. Repeat three times.”

Other ways to cope with stress include taking a brisk walk, and if possible, do it within a nature setting. Experts say watching a movie or a favorite episode of a comedy show that makes you laugh can reduce your stress hormones. Soothing music can have a calming influence but it is important to stay present in the music and not let your mind wander to the reason why you were feeling stressed. Doctors suggest try to avoid negative thinkers and to remember to be kind to yourself. 

The Denver area is home to several of MorningStar Senior Living’s retirement communities and is getting ready to add another. The new MorningStar at Observatory Park is located in the desirable South Denver neighborhood and scheduled to open in spring 2023. Our senior living community offers assisted living, memory care, respite care and trial stays (from one week to a full month). As a resident, you will enjoy comprehensive care and hospitality services, 5-Star dining, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities designed to enhance quality of life. Please visit our website to reserve your select suite today, and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.

Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/top-ways-to-reduce-daily-stress

What Are Your Senior Living Options?

These days, seniors have more options than ever when it comes to retirement communities. Some communities offer minimal support for seniors who simply want to downsize, while others offer around-the-clock care for seniors in need of clinical care. 

Whether you are looking to make plans for the future or need immediate care, there is a community for you, and knowing the differences between them is crucial to making the best decision.

Independent Living

Independent living is a great option for seniors who don’t require personal care services but are seeking a change in lifestyle that includes more activity and less maintenance. In independent living, seniors can access activities and programming, prepared meals, housekeeping, and home maintenance. 

They have more time to enjoy life, explore retirement, and spend time with the ones they love. Best of all, seniors live in a community that allows them to make new friends, have constant companionship, and enjoy amenities that keep them entertained and comfortable. 

More seniors are choosing to transition to independent living sooner rather than later because of the convenience and positive lifestyle change.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is intended for seniors who need a little more support with day-to-day tasks as they age. Staff in assisted living communities are available to help residents with activities of daily living, such as:

• Bathing

• Dressing

• Moving around

• Walking

• Eating

• Medication management

Care in assisted living is available at a variety of levels. For some seniors, assisted living means they need occasional or light support. For others, assisted living care could mean around-the-clock attention for short-term recovery or long-term care. 

Seniors in assisted living receive personalized care and companionship no matter their needs or how they change over time.

Memory Care

Memory care is a specialized type of care for seniors experiencing memory difficulties, including a diagnosis of memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care is provided by staff with specialized training who know how to handle the challenges that come along with memory loss. 

Memory care also includes activities that can aid in slowing further memory loss, as well as nutritious meals that are good for the brain. Seniors in memory care will be made as comfortable as possible, and staff will continually work to ensure that residents still have every opportunity to enjoy their retirement. 

Choose the Right Option for You

Choosing the right type of care in a retirement community is critical. Not enough care can leave seniors overwhelmed and dangerous. On the other hand, paying for assisted living when care is not needed can be wasteful. Take care in making your decision, and seek help from a professional or retirement community staff in weighing your options.

Stem Cell Therapy to Treat Osteoarthritis

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do You Need to be Readmitted to the Hospital? Know the Signs

According to statistics, the percent of patients readmitted to the hospital in the US within 30 days after being discharged was 14 percent in 2015. Common causes of readmission include pneumonia, heart failure/cardiovascular disease, and COPD/pulmonary disease. 

The warning signs it is time to go back to the hospital are difficulty breathing, chest pains, spiking fever, extreme nausea or vomiting, confusion or disorientation, worsening fatigue or weakness, or severe pain that cannot be relieved. For surgical patients, you should be told what constitutes a normal recovery and the complications to watch out for that may require a return to the hospital. Dr. Catherine MacLean, chief value medical officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, says patients should have a pretty low threshold as to when it is time to reach out to healthcare providers regarding problems. 

At discharge, patients are often given new prescriptions to fill, along with other instructions such as hydration, physical therapy and diet recommendations; and patients must be vigilant following these orders. If a person doesn’t respond to these treatments or medications as hoped, they may need to be readmitted to the hospital. 

It should not be surprising that the elderly are among the group more often readmitted to the hospital. Miscommunication regarding discharge orders is another common reason. One example is the person goes into the hospital taking certain medications and goes home with new prescriptions. Problems can occur if the patient takes both the old medications and the new ones when the doctor’s intention was to only take the new meds. This is why it is important to communicate with your team before your discharge and be clear on your care.  

The new MorningStar at Observatory Park assisted living and memory care community is designed to allow residents to live life as independently as possible. We offer 60 assisted living suites and 23 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood. While new to the DU neighborhood, MorningStar has dozens of retirement communities around the Western US including several around Denver. To reserve your select suite today, visit our website for contact information and to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We will open to residents in winter 2022.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/signs-you-should-be-readmitted-to-the-hospital

Safely Tips for the Use of Prescription Drugs

It may surprise you to know that according to the Department of Health and Human Services, each year fifty-five percent of seniors are non-compliant with prescription drug orders and do not take medication as prescribed by their doctors. It is a serious problem as approximately 200,000 older adults are hospitalized annually due to adverse drug reactions. 

Medical professionals say there are steps seniors and those who care for an elderly loved one can do to help lessen the problem. To start with, take medications as prescribed including the correct dosage and time, with or without food, and never crush a pill into a powder. Especially if you see multiple doctors, be sure to always bring a list and dosage of all medications you are taking including over-the-counter and herbal supplements. 

Experts say using the same pharmacy can help reduce drug interactions, and to be sure to read the warnings regarding adverse reactions. Periodically review your prescriptions with your doctors to make sure you are taking the right dosage and still need the medications. To see if any meds you take have a warning for usage in the elderly, check the American Geriatric Society’s “2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults.” It is also recommended you properly dispose of older medications and drugs you no longer take.  

If you are on medications to treat diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to continue to test your glucose level and BP numbers. Other drugs may be prescribed with the understanding you will have your blood tested periodically and it is important to follow through as too high or too little of a dosage can cause problems.   

The Denver area is home to several MorningStar Senior Living retirement communities and this winter will add another one. The new MorningStar at Observatory Park senior living community is in the desirable South Denver neighborhood and offers assisted living and memory care. We are honored to provide residents comprehensive care and hospitality services, 5-Star dining service, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities to enhance quality of life. Visit our website to reserve your select suite today, and ask about our Founders Club Savings.

Source: 

seniorsafetyreviews.com/13-medication-safety-tips/

Be Your Healthiest as We Approach Fall and Winter

As the seasons change and colder weather is just around the corner, it is a good idea to get our healthiest as we enter into the cold and flu season. Think of the new season as a time to make a fresh start on healthy habits that improve your physical and mental well-being. 

Lifestyle changes to boost health should include engaging in physical activity and exercising as well as incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet, getting enough sleep and managing stress. Medical experts add recharging our health should also include getting a flu shot and any other vaccines needed. 

For seniors, walking has many benefits and is a good way to increase your activity level; and fall is a great time to get outside and enjoy milder temperatures and the colorful trees. The Harvard Medical School reports studies show walking can counteract the effects of weight-promoting genes as well as help curb our sweet tooth. An American Cancer Society study found women who walked seven or more hours a week had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week. Other studies show walking can help seniors reduce joint pain from arthritis and boost our immune system, which is especially important in the upcoming cold and flu season. 

Doctors say making good nutritional choices as often as we can and watching the amount of food we eat is an easy way to improve our health. Take advantage of the many healthy food options plentiful in fall such as squashes, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, kale and pears. 

Our overall health is adversely impacted by the lack of sleep and the average person needs six to eight hours a day. Since stress interferes with our happiness and well-being, experts suggest managing it through mindful exercises like yoga, tai chi, and meditation and deep breathing. Another thing seniors can do to improve their health is to get social as isolation can lead to a higher risk for health conditions such as dementia and heart disease. Lastly experts say practicing gratefulness and being kind to ourselves increases happiness.       

MorningStar at Observatory Park is a new assisted living and memory care community in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver. We open to residents in late 2022 and encourage you to reserve your select suite at one of finest retirement communities in Denver. Please ask about our exclusive savings for early depositors.

Take it Easy When Starting an Exercise Routine

Doctors caution everyone, especially seniors, to go slow when starting or getting back into an exercise routine; and before you begin, to consult with your healthcare provider. After all you want to get back into shape, and causing injury or harm to yourself, is certain to delay or prevent this progress. 

Moreover, doctors reiterate that while individuals extremely out-of-shape will benefit the most from regular exercise, they are also more at risk for sudden heart problems resulting from such a workout. Dr. Martha Gulati, editor-in-chief of CardioSmart, the American College of Cardiology's patient education initiative, says it is important to "pace yourself, don't do too much too soon and make sure you give your body time to rest between workouts." 

One way to exercise safely is to pay attention to your heart rate. If you notice it is not coming down as your intensity decreases while resting or is beating irregularly, you need to stop. Dr. Gulati warns chest pains are never normal nor is nausea, vomiting or extreme sweating and if you experience symptoms, call 911. In addition, neither dizziness nor extreme shortness of breath is normal but rather a signal to stop and consult with your doctor. Cramps may be a sign of dehydration or low potassium levels and should not be ignored. Care should also be taken in individuals with atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat, and seek emergency medical attention if such an event occurs. 

For exceptional independent or assisted living, Everett, WA seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place. Designed to meet our residents’ every need, we have a range of wellness programs and activities to engage and support physical, intellectual, social and spiritual connections.  Please visit our website for more information.  While you are there, use our Virtual Assistant to inquire about availability and pricing or to request a tour to see firsthand our beautiful retirement communities.  

MorningStar at Silver Lake’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other independent and assisted living Everett offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding senior housing. 

Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/slideshows/signs-you-should-stop-exercising-immediately

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

Foods to Help Protect Your Brain Health

Studies find several foods can help support our brain health; and lucky for us many of them are not only good for our health but taste good. A good example of this is blueberries. Kristin Kirkpatrick, manager of wellness nutrition services at the Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute, says, "Phytochemicals give fruits and vegetables their color. Foods high in these chemicals have the most effective means of improving your health, and blueberries have one of the strongest concentrations available." 

Lutein is also a very nutritional phytochemical found in dark, leafy vegetables like kale. Consuming foods loaded with lutein appears to have a positive effect on brain functions. The publication, Neurology, reported a 2018 study of 1,000 older adults found eating a single serving of green leafy vegetables daily may help slow cognitive decline linked to aging.     

Other studies suggest people who eat citrus fruits daily are able to prevent cognitive decline by more than two years. Other healthy brain foods are nuts, which contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, vitamin E and other minerals and vitamins. 

Magnesium is also important to our health and comes right after calcium, sodium and potassium in terms of the minerals our bodies require. Candace Pumper, a staff dietitian with the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, says, “Magnesium plays a fundamental role in the regulation of various biological processes that are necessary to function well.” Pivotal to brain health, a lack of the appropriate levels could reduce cognitive performance. Fortunately magnesium is found in lots of foods including nuts, seeds, greens and other vegetables, legumes, whole-grain products, dairy products, soy and cocoa. 

At the new MorningStar at Observatory Park, our assisted living provides the help residents need to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Our contemporary senior living community in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area offers 60 assisted living suites and 23 memory care suites. We open at the end of the year and encourage you to reserve your select suite at one of Denver’s premier retirement communities and ask about our exclusive savings for early depositors. 

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/best-foods-for-brain-health?slide=7

One of Denver’s Finest Retirement Communities Opens this Winter

MorningStar at Observatory Park is preparing to open to residents at the end of the year. Our new community is a prime example of MorningStar’s commitment to building retirement communities in fast-growing regions like Denver to address the expanding need for quality senior living. The South Denver’s historic DU neighborhood was carefully chosen to meet the desire of seniors who wish to stay in their neighborhood, close to family and friends and the many attractions they have come to enjoy.  

While we are still under construction and obviously cannot offer in-person tours, we do offer a beautifully-rendered, 360° virtual tour on our website. The “tour” provides an up-close look at our community’s common rooms and attractive décor throughout. Right from the moment you walk through the front door, you will encounter the welcoming presence of our attractive foyer and bistro. Our virtual tour also includes a good look at the second floor, which is where our Reflections Neighborhood will provide memory care for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

Our website also shares some personal information regarding our Senior Executive Director, Cheryl Davis and Rebecca Gonzales, our Director of Community Relations. Ms. Davis explains how MorningStar is committed to a culture that not only serves, but leads with kindness, honesty, love and humility. She says this culture extends to the team members they are hiring who radiate these qualities, and who look forward to building genuine, loving relationships with our residents, their families and fellow team members. 

Our contemporary 5-story building offers 60 assisted living suites in a variety of smartly-designed configurations and floorplans. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 23 suites along with the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve residents’ dignity and self-worth. Please call to schedule an appointment, and ask about our Move-in Specials at one of Denver’s finest senior living communities.

Safety is Paramount in Morningstar’s Reflections Neighborhood

Family members and friends often find themselves in a tough position when their loved one’s occasional forgetfulness changes to more serious stages of memory loss which is often experienced with Alzheimer’s and dementia. When the time comes, we want our parents or loved ones to continue to feel happy in a safe, secure, and compassionate environment that resembles their own home and environment that they recognize and feel most comfortable within. 

Assisted living and retirement communities are arrangements people are often familiar with. However, these communities may fail to designate specific care and senior living environments to those specifically struggling with memory care that may require specialized attention and service to those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. At MorningStar senior living and retirement communities at Observatory Park, we offer a unique and specialized memory care neighborhood incorporated within our grounds called Reflections. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to meet the needs of our most tender residents. While we incorporate the following attributes in our everyday care for all our residents, Reflections provides compassionate, dedicated memory care specifically for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We train our entire team in MorningStar’s own Lavender Sky philosophy and programming of supported living for the memory impaired.

When considering the overall happiness of our assisted living residents, it is important to incorporate safety measures that do not infringe overly on independence but do remain mindful of specialty needs. The inside atmosphere of our Reflections Neighborhood is secure without being restrictive and still offers modern, luxury amenities that are standard to Morningstar. Our Observatory Park location, set to open in late 2022, offers a secure outdoor terrace to enjoy the beautiful weather and views of Colorado, as well as 24-hour care staff, medication management, and community rooms dedicated to life enrichment that are tailored to the needs of our memory care and assisted living residents.   

Please contact us to learn more about senior living at MorningStar Assisted Living & Alzheimers Care at Observatory Park. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission which discusses our exceptional senior living in South Denver that seniors can rely on. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Observatory Park proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Denver, Co has to offer.