May is Mental Health Month

Mental Health Awareness Month (also referred to as "Mental Health Month") was first observed in the United States in May 1949 and raises awareness of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.  In mid-March the organization releases a toolkit of materials that serves as a guide to prepare for the year’s various outreach activities. This May will mark the organization’s 70th year celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month.   

Last year’s theme was Fitness #4Mind4Body and focused on helping individuals determine what they could do to increase their fitness for the future regardless of where they were on their own personal journey to health and wellness.  The 2019 theme continues along those lines and takes it to the next level. It explores the “topics of animal companionship (including pets and support animals), spirituality, humor, work-life balance, and recreation and social connections as ways to boost mental health and general wellness.”  

The National Mental Health Association says that each year more than one in five Americans experience a mental illness or substance abuse disorder.  Thus their goal is to make people aware of the signs and symptoms of these problems so they can help affected family members or friends get the care and treatment they need.    

The University of Michigan suggests several things we can do to protect our mental health.  The first is to value ourselves. They say be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Each day make time for hobbies or enjoyable projects and try to broaden your horizons.  Then care for your body, which includes avoiding cigarettes, drinking plenty of water, eating nutritional food, and exercising. Also get plenty of sleep. Maintain strong family and/or social connections and try to do something to help someone else.  They also it is important to learn how to deal with stress, and remember to smile.

As one of the most exceptional assisted living facilities in the area, MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community will offer wellness programs and activities, resort-style amenities and fine dining.  Visit our website for pricing and availability.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting.  Please visit our Information Center to learn more about the most luxurious and loving senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Source:

mentalhealthamerica.net/may?gclid=CjwKCAjwv6blBRBzEiwAihbM-aJ26fekuOY7UWmuIvN30xSrigALt1YrKIgxKpmsGRrvo293M7QPsRoCF5QQAvD_BwE

uhs.umich.edu/tenthings

*Adapted from the National Mental Health Association/National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare

Holistic Memory Care Designed to Comfort and Elevate

As one of the newest senior living communities in the Greater Portland area, MorningStar of Happy Valley is scheduled to open in late 2019. We will bring to the area not only exceptional assisted living but our specialized, loving approach to memory care.  

Along with the recently opened MorningStar of Beaverton, MorningStar Senior Living operates senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar of Happy Valley benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained over their 15 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling - our privilege – to provide care to our most tender residents.  By devoting an entire wing to memory care called Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Thus each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  All of our team members regardless of their position will receive training in Lavender Sky, which will give them an expanded set of tools to provide residents with extraordinary care.

Our community will offer 61 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with a choice of floorplans from spacious studios to one- and two bedroom apartments.  We will have another 27 secure suites for memory care within our Reflections Neighborhood.  MorningStar of Happy Valley invites you to visit our website for directions to our onsite Information Center or give us a call to learn more.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us to learn more about luxurious and loving assisted living in Happy Valley.

Why Older Skin is So Delicate

If you are an older adult, you may have been surprised to find bruises on your body and not remember how you got them, or discovered other types of skin irritations that just seemed to appear out of nowhere.  There may be no cause for concern, (best to check with you healthcare provider) because as we age, our skin becomes much more sensitive than when we were younger.

Doctors say as we grow older, our skin begins to lose its elasticity causing it to hang more loosely and creating wrinkles.  The epidermis (the surface layer of the skin) starts to thin making it more transparent. The flattening of the area where the epidermis and dermis (the layer of skin under the epidermis) comes together also contributes to the skin fragility.  And frequent bruising is typically a result of the thinning of the blood vessel walls.

Megan L. Mulvane writes in HomeCareMag.com, “As the largest organ in the body, the skin performs regulatory functions including temperature maintenance, the expulsion of toxins through sweat and prevention of dehydration, and skin is part of the body’s defense system against infection.”  In fact she explains how the fragile nature of the skin in many who face bathing disabilities is complicated by the need to actively clean and take care of our skin as we strive to protect and enhance its integrity.

Good skin care habits for seniors include avoiding overusing soap or taking hot baths.  Apply lotion daily to keep skin soft, which should help to reduce skin tears. As ultraviolet (UV) light damages the elastin in our skin, it is important to wear sunblock when outdoors as well as hats and light clothing to cover the skin, and try to stay in the shade.  Moreover along with the other damage smoking does to our bodies, it is also damaging to the skin and one more reason to quit. Also remember to drink plenty of water each day as it is vital to every part of our body including our skin.

Please visit MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s website for more information on compassionate assisted living and memory care or just stop by our Information Center at the northwest corner of Westside Boulevard and Golf Course Road.  We are due to open soon so ask about availability for what is sure to be one of the area’s premier assisted living facilities.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting.  Opening in spring of 2019, we invite to talk to our team regarding the finest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Source: webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-aging-skin#1

Common Myths Surrounding Alzheimer’s

There are many misconceptions about the causes of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  As traumatizing as it is for a family to learn a loved one has Alzheimer’s, it is also important to sort through the various truths and myths regarding the disease.      

One mistake many people make when they or a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is to think their life is over.  In reality, a person can live a productive life for many years.  Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important and should include a nutrient-rich diet and routine exercise.  Experts also note it is important to stay socially connected and engage in activities that challenge the brain.  As medication is more helpful in the earlier stages, getting a proper diagnosis is vital.      

People also fear that if a parent had Alzheimer’s, they will get it.  The facts are that “familiar Alzheimer’s disease accounts for less than 5% of all cases of Alzheimer’s disease.”  Furthermore remember Alzheimer’s is not only a disease of the elderly.  While there are many fewer cases, it does occur in people as young as in their 40s and 50s.  

Another common myth is the belief that dental amalgam fillings containing a small amount of mercury caused the disease.  Studies have shown no such correlation between the two.  Others believe aluminum pans are responsible, and while a few studies suggest a small possibility, most experts think the link is questionable.    

Some people think memory loss is a natural progression of aging, but the truth is while many of us experience some decline in memory, if the loss is disrupting your day-to-day life, you need to see a healthcare provider.  Another thing to remember is a diagnosis of dementia is not necessary better than being told a person has Alzheimer’s, it is just another form of the disease.   

If you or a loved one is suffering from dementia, please contact one of the area’s most loving, professional Alzheimer’s care homes.  MorningStar at Englefield Green takes a holistic approach to dementia care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website for more.    

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Visit our website to set up a tour to one of Boise’s finest Alzheimer’s care homes.

Source: alz.org/news/2018/senate-takes-bold-steps-in-fight-against-alzheimer

alzheimer.ca/en/Home/About-dementia/Alzheimer-s-disease/Myth-and-reality-about-Alzheimer-s-disease

Pet Therapy for Those with Dementia

Research has shown that people with dementia benefit physically, emotionally, socially and mentally from a connection between humans and animals.  Whether they are a furry, feathery or scaly friend, it appears that animals have the ability to help those with dementia in a number of ways. In numerous studies, therapeutic animals have drastically improved dementia symptoms and helped to elevate mood, decrease behavioral problems, improve nutrition, increase social interaction, and provide a calming effect.  

Many people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia lose the ability to initiate and maintain social relationships as the disease progresses.  Dr. Mara Baun has extensively studied the psychological benefits pets provide to those with Alzheimer's disease. Her research found therapy animals “help decrease the symptoms of aggression and help increase socialization. The presence of a therapy pet helped decreased symptoms of "sundowning" in Alzheimer's patients.”

Dr Baun's sundowning study found that a therapy dog can provide “missed physical contact to a patient with Alzheimer's disease. It matters little to the pet if the person's body has deteriorated or if the stories are repeated over and over.”  The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication can be soothing for patients. In addition, animals offer unconditional love and endless forgiveness. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we strongly believe in the power of animals’ unconditional love and periodically bring in therapy animals to visit with our memory care residents.  In addition to our loving, compassionate memory care, we also offer assisted living, and in case you wondered, MorningStar is a pet friendly community!   If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

Sources: verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677
chron.com/homes/senior_living-/article/Pets-increase-quality-of-life-for-Alzheimer-s-5759679.php

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, We Take Dining to the Next Level

As one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, MorningStar of Fountain Hills proudly takes dining to a new level with beautifully prepared meals served restaurant-style.  We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why we put so much emphasis on ensuring our food service is A+.

Furthermore, we believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed within a community setting.  When we break bread together, it is much more than just physical nutrients as it helps to bond us as a family and as friends.

To ensure our food service is both delicious and nutritional, we have our own highly-trained professional chef who is in charge of all meal prep.  Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients of which come from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced.  Meals are also modified to include an array of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat choices so that residents can self-manage any dietary restrictions. 

Recognizing that nutrient-rich foods can help stimulate the appetite as well as support brain health, MorningStar meals are also prepared using ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.   These “super foods” include leafy, dark greens; dark chocolate; acai; berries, and Omega 3 fats. Most importantly mealtime at Fountain Hills is a time for residents to relax and enjoy the company of fellow residents or family and friends.  

Located in a scenic desert community east of Scottsdale, MorningStar of Fountain Hills residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community within a loving, family atmosphere.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s best assisted living and memory care community, and while you are there, set up a tour to see for yourself why residents are proud to call us home.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Smartly Designed Floorplans at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

MorningStar Senior Living has some of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Peoria and Glendale AZ has to offer. With four communities in Metro Phoenix, MorningStar has a location which is convenient to all seniors in the area.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our community was meticulously designed to accommodate every need of our assisted living and memory care residents.  For assisted living, we offer 63 graciously appointed suites in configurations that range from spacious studio to one- and two-bedroom floor plans as large as 870 sq. ft.   Our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases and has 28 secure suites.

Each of our stylish units offers high ceilings, large windows, lighting, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and is equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  Moreover basic cable TV and utilities is included in your monthly rent and every suite has its own heating and air conditioning system. We also offer weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  Also, in case you wondered, MorningStar of Fountain Hills is pet friendly.

We encourage you to visit our website and take a look at the gallery photos, suite features and variety of floor plans.  Keep in mind what you see on our site are representative floorplans and a full inventory of our many suite shapes and sizes can be obtained by contacting our Director of Community Relations, Traci Gregory.

While at our website, you can also set up a tour or email us for pricing and availability. We love showing off our community and we think you will see why our residents are proud to call MorningStar of Fountain Hills “home.”

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

It is Healthier for People with Dementia to Stay Active & Involved

It is important that a person with dementia stay as active and engaged as possible and may even help to maintain quality of life in the more advanced stages of the disease.  Directing and encouraging the individual to be involved in meaningful activities can help preserve a sense of self-worth and purpose.   

Studies suggest activities should stimulate all five senses – sight, touch, sound, taste and smell.  The creative arts are a good example as they often touch on more than one of our senses.  Singing is one of the last abilities many people with Alzheimer’s lose, and often someone can sing along to a song even after they have lost other memories.  Most also enjoy listening to music.  Another good activity is to show the person a picture of someone or something and encourage them to tell a story about it.  Allowing them use their imagination releases them from the pressure of having to remember something that actually happened.    

Physical activities are also important and getting outside and taking a walk is not only good exercise but gives the person a new outlook.  Studies show that the ability to walk in the early stages of Alzheimer’s is well preserved in many people and some can walk for miles.  However others may develop a change in their gait even early-on so it is important to take care and evaluate the person’s ability to walk safely.  Dancing is another activity enjoyed by many with Alzheimer’s and has been shown to stimulate social interaction, enhance mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-awareness and self-expression. 

At MorningStar at Englefield Green, we could not agree more.  As dementia care specialists, we design an individualized routine for each resident that can stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Our daily calendar is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort residents.  Get the care your loved one deserves from one of the area’s top Alzheimer’s care homes. 

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Are you looking for the best dementia care in Boise?  Please visit our website to learn about availability.

Source: cie.org.uk/dementia/living-with-dementia/keeping-active/

Socializing Reduces Cognitive Decline in Seniors

In order to thrive and lead fulfilling lives, people need to socialize with one another, and seniors are no different.  In fact studies show loneliness can have a detrimental effect on the elderly while socializing can help to enhance and enrich seniors’ lives.

An article in the US News & World Report discusses a study on seniors’ social interactions conducted by the Rush Memory and Aging Project and funded by the National Institute on Aging.  The study found that the most socially active seniors experienced one-fourth the rate of cognitive decline as seniors with the lowest levels of social activity.  The results were independent of other factors that may influence cognitive decline including physical activity, general health, and age.

During a five year period, the Rush University project followed 1,138 adults with an average age of 80.  Their research discovered that “elderly people with the highest levels of social activity -- doing things such as visiting friends, going to parties or attending church -- showed much lower levels of cognitive decline than those who were the least socially active.”

As one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers, MorningStar of Fountain Hills strongly believes in addressing our residents’ overall wellbeing through physical, intellectual and spiritual activities as well as to help them engage socially.  Our life enrichment programs present creative ways for residents to stay active and productive for both companionship and pure fun. Our programs tap into residents’ unique talents and experiences as well as allow them to find new avenues of interest.  In addition to our in-house activities, we take group trips to cultural destinations, parks, area malls, museums, and restaurants.

Please visit our website to see what is happening at our exceptional community.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

Sources: usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/05/04/socializing-may-keep-elderly-minds-sharp

livestrong.com/article/543831-the-importance-of-elderly-exercise-socialization-programs/

Take a Look at Beautiful MorningStar of Fountain Hills

Once you visit our website and have the chance to look at our Gallery photos, you will see why MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills is one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.  In fact, our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ every need and is beautifully decorated throughout to provide an atmosphere of comfort, relaxation and serenity.

As our pictures show, from the moment you walk through the door you will feel like you have walked into a gracious home.  From beautifully-appointed common areas that provide a comfortable, relaxing place to sit and enjoy a visit with friends, an atrium with a water feature, bistro, a full salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures and much more.  Other Gallery photos features onsite amenities such as our chapel/theatre, outdoor areas, and fitness center.

However, while we offer many amenities and beautiful surroundings, we are most proud of our staff. The MorningStar team consists of a group of people who have perfected the art of anticipating the needs of our residents and going the extra mile to serve them.   Filled with compassion and care, each of our staff members has a smile for the residents and is as quick to listen to a story as they are to lend a helping hand when needed.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers 63 private assisted living suites on two levels with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans as large as 870 sq. ft.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We encourage you to visit our website and use our online form to schedule a tour of our very special community.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Research Shows Music May Help Calm Those with Alzheimer’s

The Mayo Clinic reports on research that suggests listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. They explain the reason may be that “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” Listening to music can help relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and reduce agitation. 

Music can bring back memories to those even in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Associations quotes neurologist Oliver Sacks, who says, “Music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory… it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.” When music is incorporated into the everyday activities of someone with dementia, it can help them to recall memories of that activity and improve cognitive ability over time. 

Research has shown that some of the last two abilities in Alzheimer’s patients are musical abilities and the appreciation of it, which is why it is such an effective way to try and reach the essence of the person. It has also been found to help those in the more advanced stages of the disease to express and share emotions with their caregivers through dancing or moving along with the rhythm. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America says, “When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.” 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s is one of the top assisted living facilities in the area offering dedicated memory care. As dementia care specialists, our training and experience has given us a deep understanding of the disease. Our holistic approach includes leveraging the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort. Please contact us to learn about the newest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best assisted living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. Our community will open in the spring of 2019. In the meantime, visit our Information Center to talk to our team about unparalleled senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/music-and-alzheimers/faq-20058173
alzheimers.net/why-music-boosts-brain-activity-in-dementia-patients/
medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321677.php

A Company Founded on Creating a “True Home” for Seniors

Do you think all senior living communities are pretty much the same? If so, it may surprise you to learn that MorningStar of Happy Valley is committed to a distinct mission statement that guides the way we do business and how we deliver our care services. 

It reads as follows: 

Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics 
Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence 
Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents 

MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, who after fifteen years of working in the industry was determined to start his own brand of senior living. It would be one that was defined by human touch and lovingly meet the residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. MorningStar communities were thus created as true home for seniors – one in which the sense of family prevails and residents are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Most importantly communities are staffed by individuals who have a felt calling to serve and view seniors as heroes. 

Those values have served our company well for over the past 15 years, and we now fast forward to today where MorningStar of Happy Valley is currently under construction. Our warm and welcoming community has been designed from the ground up to be a place where residents are proud to call it “home.” The three-story building will have 61 assisted living suites in a variety of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans from 324 sq. ft. to as large as 928 sq. ft. In addition we will offer 27 secure suites dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for contact information. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Promising to one of the best senior living communities in the area, we invite you to visit our website to learn more.

Our Private Suites are Available in a Range of Stylish Floorplans

As one of the newest assisted living communities in Happy Valley, MorningStar of Happy Valley has been designed to create a true home for our residents and provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Along with our compassionate care services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities, residents will have a choice of smart floorplans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs. 

Within our 61 assisted living suites, we offer floorplans that include one-bedroom, one bath and two-bedroom, two bath configurations with some as large as 928 sq. ft. as well as spacious studios. You will find all of our suites have lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items. 

Each suite is equipped with a kitchenette and full apartment-size refrigerator, handicap-accessible bathrooms, a 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system. Your monthly fee includes cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services. We do trash removal and spot cleaning daily. Moreover if you are wondering, we are pet friendly! 

From the moment you walk through the door, you are sure to be impressed by how much MorningStar of Happy Valley feels just like a true home. Our beautifully-appointed common areas were designed by the award-winning senior interior design company, Thoma-Holec Design. However the thing we are most proud of is our dedicated team of caregivers. Please visit our website to view stunning photos and to learn more about our loving assisted living community. In addition to assisted living, we also have 27 secure suites devoted to the care of those suffering with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advance stages. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Doesn’t your parent deserve the care of one of the area’s best senior living communities? Please contact us.

We Believe Seniors Have a Lot to Contribute

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we strongly believe that older adults still have a lot to contribute and are eager and open to learning new ideas and pursuing new interests. This is why in addition to our exceptional care services; our community will offer an inspirational and engaging life enrichment program. WellStar, our signature wellness program, is designed to stimulate your brain, enhance health and wellness, and encourage social connections.

Headed by our talented Life Enrichment team, our assisted living calendar will be filled with optional activities that use creative ways to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory. We tap into our residents’ unique talents and experiences, and if we do not already have one, encourage residents to take the lead in establishing special interest clubs. 

From art classes, to physical activities such as walking and chair yoga, baking clubs or wine tasting, and live music, MorningStar of Rio Rancho is committed to engaging the mind, body and spirit each day. We will also take outings to cultural destinations, scenic drives, picnic lunches to local parks and more. We suggest you take a look at some of our other communities’ Life Around Our House or Upcoming Events to get a better idea of the fun and entertainment enjoyed by MorningStar residents and their families as well as our staff. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s construction is progressing rapidly and we all look forward to welcoming our first residents. We invite you to visit website or our onsite Information Center to learn more about one of the most smartly designed assisted living facilities in the area. Along with our 51 private assisted living suites, we will also offer 26 secure memory care suites dedicated to individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. While we plan to open in late spring of 2019, in the meantime, please visit our Information Center to learn more about the finest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Things to Consider When Taking a Loved One with Alzheimer’s to the Doctor

It is important to schedule routine doctor appointments for an individual with Alzheimer’s. The Mayo Clinic explains that checkups ensure health and behavioral issues are regularly addressed and provide tips for caregivers accompanying the person to help them get the most out of the limited time spent with the doctor. Also they suggest that while your loved one is still able, to have them sign a privacy release form at the doctor’s so their medical condition can be freely shared with you. 

You should try to schedule appointments during the person’s best time of day, and if you can, coordinate it with the doctor’s least busy time. You should bring along snacks and water as well as an activity you can do together. If they have been uncooperative about going to the doctor’s in the past, wait and let them know about the appointment that day.

The Mayo Clinic say the caregiver should prepare a list of things they wish to discuss with the doctor including medication side effects or issues with aggressive behaviors. Also have a list of medications the person is taking and include over-the-counter medications and other supplements. If your loved one is in an assisted living facility, ask the staff about any concerns they would like you to relay to the doctor. 

If a new medication is prescribed, ask questions about the side effects. Also be ready to answer questions regarding any changes in their memory and mood as well as their diet and sleep habits. Write down signification information including recommended follow-up appointments with specialists. Most importantly, if you feel you need help, your doctor is a good source for referrals to various community resources and care providers. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley is an assisted living and memory care community that will open to residents late this year. As dementia care specialists, we consider it our calling, and privilege to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Contact us to learn more about one of the best senior living communities in Happy Valley.

An Assisted Living Community Designed to Help You Live Life to the Fullest!

If a loved one has started to slow down a bit and needs a little help with day-to-day activities or could benefit from more companionship and socialization, assisted living may be the answer. Sometimes older adults resist the idea of assisted living as they think they will lose their independence and freedom but this could not be further from the truth. Making the move to an assisted living community like MorningStar of Rio Rancho actually improves the quality of life for many seniors. 

If you are picturing dark and dreary assisted living facilities like your grandparent’s nursing home years ago, you need to update yourself to today’s modern senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. We suggest visiting MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s website and follow the link to our Gallery where you will find stunning interior and exterior photos. Also follow our links to a list of amenities and floor plans. 

While we will not have a monthly calendar posted until we open, we suggest you take a look at neighboring MorningStar of Albuquerque’s monthly calendar of wellness activities and special events to get an idea of the daily goings-on. For example, on a Wednesday in March, residents could join the mid-week shopping trip, catch up on current events, attend a Let’s Get Moving class, join a discussion on the Art Work of God, play poker or Bingo, and do some wine tasting all before dinner! Activities are optional but participating can sure be fun and most likely you will be missed if you do not join in. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho plans to open in late spring or early summer and will offer 51 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans. In addition we have 26 secure suites devoted to the care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Visit our website or stop by our onsite Information center at the northwest corner of Westside Boulevard and Golf Course Road. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. Please call for more information on one of the top assisted living facilities in Rio Rancho.

Limiting TV Time Shows Health Benefits for Seniors

For years research has suggested children should have limits placed upon their daily screen time, and now a large study suggests the same may be true for older adults. A recently published report from the University College London in the United Kingdom indicates that older adults who spent at least 3.5 hours a day watching television experienced a greater decline in verbal memory. The study’s data was taken from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), which included 3,662 participants age 50 years and older. 

Participants answered researchers’ questions in 2008-2009 and then again in 2014-2015 regarding the time they spent watching TV. Afterward they were given a series of tests that measured verbal memory and fluency. Results showed adults who watch 3.5 or more hours of TV daily had an “average decline of 8–10 percent in word- and language-related memory over the 6 years the study covered. This is compared with a lower 4–5 percent average decline in those who watched fewer hours of TV per day over the same period.” For the verbal memory tests, participants were asked to memorize and then recall lists of words within a given time. The verbal fluency tests required them to list as many examples, such as animals, they could in a given amount of time. The semantic fluency of the study’s participants did not seem to be affected. 

It was noted that most of the studies involving the effects of TV watching have been done on children and little to no studies on older adults. One of the study’s co-authors, Dr. Daisy Fancourt, who works in the Department of Behavioral Science and Health says, "Much less attention has been paid to the effects of television viewing at the other end of the lifespan, despite it being hypothesized for over 25 years that watching excessive television could contribute to the development of dementia."

As one of the newest senior living communities in the greater Portland area, MorningStar of Happy Valley residents will have a whole lot more to do than just watching TV. Our assisted living and memory care residential home will provide the care services residents’ need as well as a range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection. Please call or visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living in Happy Valley. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324598.php

Is it Time to Move a Loved One into Memory Care?

Caring for a parent or a spouse with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is a difficult task. As the disease progresses, families become concerned about their ability to keep the person well cared for and safe. For some families, trying to hang on and care for a loved one at home may be creating a situation that is not optimal for the individual or the caregiver. 

Experts say there are signals that more care is needed such as is the person eating regularly and have they lost or gained an unusual amount of weight lately. Do you suspect the person is missing medication doses or may be taking too much medication? Have they fallen recently? Have you found the burners on the stove left on? Other warning signs may include aggressive behaviors, wondering, or forgetting where they are when they are out of the home. Neurologist Douglas Scharre, MD, director of the Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that “The main reason to move out of a home to assisted living is when there are not enough resources to safely care for the person with dementia at home.”

Another reason for more professional care, and just as important, is caregiver burnout. Experts explain that you should not feel guilty if caring for your loved one is taking a toll on your own health and wellbeing. They also suggest the person may be bored at home. Assisted living facilities with dedicated memory care have activities geared toward those with dementia, and the person may find comfort in being around those in a similar situation. 

If it is time to look into assisted living facilities with specialized memory care, we suggest MorningStar of Rio Rancho. When we open in late spring, we will offer 26 secure memory care suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide individualized memory care. Please visit our website to learn more. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. Pease visit our website or our onsite Information Center to learn more about compassionate and loving senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: caring.com/articles/move-parent-with-dementia-to-assisted-living

Extraordinary Caregivers with a Felt Calling to Serve

MorningStar of Happy Valley is currently under construction and plans to open in late 2019. We offer assisted living as well as dedicated memory care and promise to be one of the area’s finest senior living communities. While new to Happy Valley, MorningStar Senior Living has communities scattered throughout the Western U.S. including the newly opened MorningStar of Beaverton. 

One of the cornerstones to MorningStar’s success and excellent reputation lie in our commitment to assemble a team of individuals with a felt calling to serve, and who recognize seniors as heroes, for each of our communities. At Happy Valley, we plan to do the same and have an exceptional leadership team already in place to lead the way. We know that compassionate caregivers (as well as other team members) are the very heartbeat of our community and make it possible for us to provide the loving, genuine care MorningStar was founded on. 

We encourage interested families to come visit our onsite Information Center so you can get to know us and let us learn a little something about you. We also suggest you visit our website to get an idea of the types of services and amenities we will be offering as well as information regarding our suite configurations and floorplans. 

While you are there, you may want to take a look at some of MorningStar’s more established senior living communities for a sampling of the activities and special events enjoyed by the residents, their families and staff. Also take the time to read some of the reviews from residents themselves and family members. Our beautiful community will provide 61 private assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Contact us to learn more about compassionate, comfortable assisted living in Happy Valley.

Is a Parent Moving to Assisted Living? Tips to Help Downsize!

Along with the emotional transition to assisted living, your loved one may require help downsizing their belongings especially if they are still living in their own home. While many assisted living suites such MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s are quite roomy, obviously they are not as big as a whole house. Nor will your parent need the same amount of housewares and equipment in their new suite as they will no longer be preparing meals or cleaning and maintaining a home. 

The Family Caregiver Alliance has some tips as well as a check sheet for families to help make the process go more smoothly and ultimately save time and energy. They suggest strategies to use if you have the time (such as it is not an emergency to move now) and plan the steps you will take as far out as six months to a year. In fact decluttering should be done on a fairly regular basis including updating paperwork and shredding old documents. Also periodically get rid of unused or worn out clothing, furniture and extraneous household items. 

One of the first steps they recommend is to write lists and add to them whenever you think of something new. Lists should include things your parent wants to take with them to their new home, and a timeline of when things need to be done by. Get a floorplan of the suite as it will make it easier to realistically plan what to take, to sell, donate or to give away. The Family Caregiver Alliance also reminds families to go slow with the sorting process and try not to overwhelm their parent by doing too much each day. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho is one of the newest assisted living facilities in the area and will also provide memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We plan to open our doors to residents in late spring or early summer and encourage you to visit our onsite Information Center to talk to us about availability and pricing. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. We will open to residents in the spring of 2019, but in the meantime, visit our Information Center for more information on the finest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: caregiver.org/downsizing-home-checklist-caregivers