Moderate Exercise is Important for Learning and Memory

Decreases in brain metabolism have been shown to be a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease and predictive of cognitive decline and the conversion to Alzheimer’s in older adults. Scientists believe that physical activity can modulate brain glucose metabolism but until now it was unclear what level of intensity and duration of exercise was most beneficial.   

Recently the National Institute on Aging published an article that found “even moderate physical activity may increase metabolism in brain regions important for learning and memory.”   The NIA-supported study was led by Dr. Ozioma Okonkwo of the University of Wisconsin.   

Researchers had cognitively normal, late-middle age (average age 64 years old) participants wear an accelerometer for 7 consecutive days to measure their daily physical activity.  Afterward, they looked at the amount of time each participant engaged in “light (e.g., a slow walk), moderate (e.g., a fast walk), and vigorous activities (e.g., run).”  The data was analyzed to determine how they “corresponded with glucose metabolism within brain areas that have been demonstrated to be impacted in people with Alzheimer’s.” 

Increasing the levels of moderate physical activity showed an increase in cerebral glucose metabolism across all brain regions examined.  Participants that engaged in light physical activity had no changes to the metabolism in any of the brain regions examined.  Another thing that impacted the amount of brain glucose metabolism was the duration of time spent in moderate physical activity.  Researchers found that the more time a person spent doing moderate levels of physical activity (average 43.3 min/day to average 68.1 min/day), the greater the increase in brain glucose metabolism. 

The NIA says it is encouraging evidence that physical activity may be beneficial for neurometabolic function.  Moreover, they say it is a “critical contribution to the efforts to identify the intensity and duration of physical activity that confer the most advantage for combating Alzheimer’s-related changes in mid-life.” 

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.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, and offers loving, compassionate Alzheimer’s care in a beautiful residential setting.  We encourage you to schedule a tour to see our exceptional community.

Source:nia.nih.gov/news/moderate-physical-activity-linked-increases-metabolism-across-brain-regions

MorningStar of Fountain Hills is Designed for a Carefree Retirement

If you would like the freedom to enjoy your retirement years without many worries, we invite you to consider MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills.  Located in Fountain Hills, AZ, our community has views of the celebrated lake fountain, whose geyser shoots water to a height of over 500 feet every hour. We are also conveniently located to hospitals, banks, shopping malls, restaurants, and grocery stores.

For assisted living, we offer 63 stylish, private suites in a variety of configurations.  From spacious studios to one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans on two levels, our suites are meticulously designed so all you need is to bring your furnishings and personal items.  Each unit offers high-end finishes and includes lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds.  

For memory care residents, our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure suites that are devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  

Furthermore, MorningStar of Fountain Hills provides a whole host of wellness programs and activities to engage residents intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially.   If you take a look at our monthly calendar posted on our website, you will see a variety of daily activities that are inspirational and motivating as well as just plain fun. If all this sounds like something you or a loved one would be interested in, we invite you schedule a visit to see our beautiful community in person.     

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 the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ Unique Approach to Memory Care

Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating for the person and their family.  All of one’s carefully laid plans are cast aside as their future takes a much different path.    

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills understands that families feel traumatized by the sobering diagnosis, and we want you to know we are here to support you as well as your loved one. Along with 63 private suites for assisted living, our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure suites devoted to the specialized care for those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Unlike other memory care communities, MorningStar’s extensive experience has allowed us to gain a deep understanding of the disease, and we consider it our privilege to serve those with memory loss.  We recognize that the person’s essence remains and we are committed to finding ways to connect with and nurture that essence.   

We also consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey.  Our unique approach to memory care is called Lavender Sky, which is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of memory loss.  Additionally, as we believe that many of the adverse behaviors associated with dementia are often side effects of antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have less than 10% of our residents on any of these types of drugs.

Every aspect of our memory care is designed to address the needs of our residents including 24/7 compassionate Care Mangers, wellness programs and activities that will stimulate and calm as needed.  Even our meals are designed with our most tender residents’ need in mind and are as good to look at as they are to eat.     

Please contact us or visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our loving, compassionate memory care.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills Proudly Welcomes Vets

MorningStar of Fountain Hills is pleased to provide families with ideas for additional financial solutions beyond traditional retirement savings and investment income to help pay for assisted living or memory care.  On our website, you will find extensive information on several under-utilized financial benefits and resources including a full explanation of the generous “Aid & Attendance” pension from the US Department of Veteran Affairs.   

Aid & Attendance is a monthly benefit payment available to certain wartime veterans and their survivors who qualify for financial need and have a doctor’s order for regular assistance with daily living activities.  To be eligible, the vet must have served for at least 90 days of active duty with at least one of those days spent serving during a period of a foreign war. Furthermore, the vet cannot have been dishonorably discharged.  The benefit does not require the vet to have served overseas, seen combat or retired from the military. Surviving spouses of the vet are also eligible for the Aid & Attendance pension if they were married to the vet at the time of their death and have not remarried.      

When we find out that a vet or the family of a vet is interested in our community, we are pleased to direct them to local resources that can help to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance.  In every state including Arizona, there is a Department of Military/Veteran Affairs staffed with Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) who will help you complete the 41-page Aid & Attendance application free of charge. The approval process typically takes 3 to 4 months.  

Throughout our many MorningStar’s communities, we are privileged to have veterans from all five branches of military service call us home.  Please visit our website and take a look at our Family Resources information regarding ways to finance assisted living including “Aid & Attendance” pension benefits for Veterans.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

It is Important that Seniors Stay Hydrated

Now that we are in mid-summer and outside temperatures are soaring, it is important for seniors to stay hydrated.  Dehydration can cause serious problems, and since older adults can become dehydrated even when it is not hot outside, they need to remember to make a conscious effort to increase their fluid intake.  

There are several reasons why the elderly are more at risk for dehydration including the fact that the body’s mechanisms meant to protect us from dehydration do not work as well as we age.  This means older adults often experience diminished thirst sensations that may lead to reduced fluid consumption or suffer from conditions such as incontinence that can increase water loss. Certain medications commonly prescribed to seniors to treat high blood pressure or heart failure can also cause dehydration.  Other things that can lead to dehydration include memory problems that result in someone forgetting to drink or mobility problems that make it hard for a person to get something to drink.  

Experts suggest that one way to help prevent dehydration is to set up a schedule to drink  something several times a day and that it is better to offer fluids more frequently than expecting a senior to drink a large amount at one time.  The general recommendation is for older adults to consume at least 57.5 fluid ounces or 7.1 cups during a 24 hour period. Just keep in mind that alcohol can be dehydrating and have a definite diuretic effect on people.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our assisted living and memory care community is designed to see to the needs of our residents.   Included in the many services and amenities we provide, our residents are served daily nutritional meals restaurant-style in our attractive dining room.  We feel that food (and drink) is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed in community. Please visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Memory Care Designed to Feel Like Home

As one of the area’s top assisted living communities, we feel it is our calling, and our privilege, to provide loving, compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  With 28 memory care suites, we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Also, our Reflections Neighborhood is a secure environment, designed to allow residents the independence to move freely and safely about in their expansive surroundings.  

In fact every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar community, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities and scheduled outings and events.

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program is another reflection of our Radiance culture and provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security and holistic solutions to challenging behaviors.  

Along with memory care, MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers exceptional assisted living.   Please visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our loving, compassionate memory care.

Stylish, Well-designed Floors Plans at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

After visiting our website or once you take a tour of our community, you most certainly will understand why MorningStar of Fountain Hills is the type of assisted living and memory care you want for you or your loved one.  Along with a whole array of amenities and services and a compassionate, loving team that is honored to serve seniors, we also offer well-designed suites to please a variety of tastes and preferences.  We have 63 assisted living suites on two levels that offer a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 28 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease and  other types of dementia.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ stylish suites are designed for our residents’ utmost comfort and safety and include ceiling llighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds.  Each unit is equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems and separate heating and air conditioning controls. In addition your monthly fee will include basic cable TV and utilities as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal.   We also offer weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services, and additionally have onsite laundry facilities available to residents.  

So all you need to do is bring your furnishings and personal items to your new home and we will provide the rest including three daily tasty and nutritional meals, a 24/7 care staff, full-time licensed nurse, scheduled transportation and much more.  And in case you wondered, MorningStar of Fountain Hills is pet friendly. When you visit our website, please use our convenient form to learn more about pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour of our gorgeous 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 the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Dementia Care Offering Wellness Programs and Meaningful Activities

MorningStar at Englefield Green provides individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Our holistic care is designed to affirm the dignity and value of the person within a supportive, loving atmosphere. 

MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Under a Lavender Sky, our ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore. To aid us in this quest, our Life Enrichment team provides a whole host of wellness programs and activities that help to connect with and nurture the essence of the person regardless of the level of memory loss. 

Our monthly calendar includes a variety of exercise classes appropriate for our residents’ level of fitness.  The classes start with Sunday Strong, to Monday Movements, Tuesday Workout, Wednesday Workout, Aerobic Thursday, Friday Fitness, and Saturday Strong.  Residents are encouraged to participate in whatever capacity they are most comfortable with. 

Additionally, Englefield Green residents enjoy a range of activities and games that not only use cognitive skills but are fun for staff and residents alike.  Examples include Brain Games, Craft Corner, Bingo, Trivia Time, Baking Buddies and much more.  Furthermore, each month we have special events and programs such as the sounds of Cowboy Andres, Dan Costello on guitar, and an Apple Pie Social while enjoying Rachel play the harp.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website to learn more about our specialized memory care and to set up a tour.   From the moment you walk through the door, you will see why our community is a true home.     

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other assisted living communities.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best dementia care in Boise.

Dining Together Helps to Bond Us as Family and Friends

MorningStar of Happy Valley is slated to become one of the premier senior living communities in the area when we open later this year.  We are MorningStar Senior Living’s second assisted living and memory care community in the Portland area, the other being MorningStar of Beaverton which opened late last year.

As a resident, you will be treated to a whole host of resort-style amenities and care services including a 5 star dining experience.  All residents are treated to three daily meals prepared under the supervision of our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our bright, airy dining room.  We understand that food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living. We also know food always taste better and is enjoyed more when shared in community and breaking bread together helps to bond us as a family and as friends.  

Our meals are prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients from the highest quality local producers.  MorningStar’s Chef looks forward to feedback from residents and is open to suggestions. At each meal, residents will have choices to self-manage their dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat dishes.  

We also believe in BrainWise foods and use ingredients known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Thus as the MorningStar’s culinary team strives to create meals that delight the eye and palate, they also leverage the phenomenal benefits of superfoods such as Omega 3 fats, acai berries, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Our community will offer 61 private assisted living suites as well as 27 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  While residents’ apartments are their own private nest, our community also has lots of common areas both inside and out that are designed to encourage residents to sit and relax with friends.  To learn more about pricing and availability, please email or give us a call.      

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Happy Valley, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Our New Happy Valley Community is Designed as a “True Home”

Great News! MorningStar of Happy Valley’s Information Center is now open seven days a week.  We invite you to stop by and learn more about our new assisted living and memory care community opening later this year.  We are located in a residential neighborhood southeast of Portland, at the intersection of SE Sunnyside Rd. and SE 145th Ave.

As one of the newest senior living communities in the greater Portland area, MorningStar of Happy Valley will offer 61 assisted living suites and 27 secure suites for memory care.  Residents will have 24/7 care and a wide assortment of resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing.  Our wellness programs and activities will be designed to engage and support residents’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs.

Starting with our attractive exterior, MorningStar of Happy Valley will be a place anyone would be proud to call home.  Situated on an expansive 2-acre parcel, it will provide residents and their families the opportunity to get out and enjoy Oregon’s beautiful weather.  The exterior areas feature comfortable courtyards with unique artwork and trellises, strolling paths, resident gardening areas, and a barbecue and fire pit.

In addition, our spacious 3-story building will offer lots of common areas that include a general store, salon, game room, fitness and wellness center, and a 24-hour bistro with full bar.  As a resident, you will be treated to delicious, healthy meals prepared by our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our charming dining room.  And for special occasions, we offer a private dining room for intimate diners.  

Beautifully-appointed throughout, our interior is designed by the award-winning senior interior specialist, Thoma-Holec Design, known for their passion and expertise in designing comfortable, functional, innovative and dignified environments for seniors.  Please visit our website or stop by the Information Center for more information. We look forward to meeting you and your family.

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 the Happy Valley – Clackamas area.   

Join the “MorningStar Family” at Our New Happy Valley Community

When our beautiful MorningStar of Happy Valley opens its doors later this year, we will be excited to finally get the chance to start serving our special residents.  Our whole team is committed to being one of the finest senior living communities in the area and to live up to our unique mission statements 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’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, began the company out of his desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He said his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Fifteen years later, MorningStar has continued to grow and prosper including MorningStar of Happy Valley as well as another Oregon community, MorningStar of Beaverton, which opened last year.

Our team is made up of a group of individuals who do the right thing even when no one is watching and feel privileged to serve seniors.  Our compassionate community is filled with love and laughter as we aspire to and nurture our core value of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community as well as for information on pricing and availability.           

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Happy Valley, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s Assisted Living Caters to All of Your Needs

MorningStar of Happy Valley is getting ready to open its doors later this year.  As the area’s newest assisted living and memory care community, we will fill a well-needed niche for senior housing in Happy Valley Oregon, a fast-growing suburb of Portland.  Our community has 61 private assisted living suites, and another 27 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases.  

If you or a loved one is considering a move to assisted living and are wondering how your costs are determined, we can provide you with a general guideline.  Assisted living offers seniors 62 years and older compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting and each resident’s care is personalized to address their needs.  Even before you move in, MorningStar’s Wellness Director will sit down with you and your family and do a thorough assessment in order to create an individualized care plan.  Once you have moved in, your trained Care Managers will see to it your needs are met, and as we do routine Care Plan reviews, any changes to your health will be addressed.  

You monthly fee is based on a couple of things including your choice of apartment (we offer spacious studios and one-and two bedrooms suites) and its location within the building and views.  In addition we offer five levels of care for assisted living, and your level will be determined by your care plan. MorningStar also offers a range of auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, which are priced a la carte.     

MorningStar of Happy Valley is designed to meet residents’ every need and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Amenities include a bistro, life enrichment room, fitness and wellness center, library and much more. Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day. Our equally enjoyable outdoor areas include courtyards featuring artwork and a trellis, barbecue, fire pit and strolling paths.   Please visit our website for more 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.  Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living in the Happy Valley – Clackamas area.   

Help Prevent Falls with Balance Exercises

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest statistics show that one in four Americans aged 65 years and older falls each year.  Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, and number of falls will continue to increase as America’s baby boomers grow older.

While these are worrisome facts, experts say there are some simple exercises seniors can do to help prevent falls and maintain their independence. Remember a common injury caused by an elderly person falling is a hip fracture that can seriously impact their life.  

Most balance exercises are easy to learn and do, do not require special equipment or a trip to the gym, and can be done anywhere.  The Mayo Clinic explains that while many exercises including walking can help maintain good balance, there are specific exercises targeted at improving a senior’s balance and stability.  They do caution however that if you have severe balance problems or an orthopedic condition, to get your doctor's okay before starting balance exercises.

Examples of balance exercises include: standing on one foot, walking heel to toe, back leg raises, and side leg raises.  To do the standing on one foot exercise, stand behind a sturdy chair; gripping for balance, lift one foot off the floor. Hold for 10 seconds and then repeat with the opposite leg.  Repeat the exercise several times and increase the repetition as your strength increases.   

Walking heel to toe is done by positioning the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot.  Your heel and toes should be touching. Now select a spot ahead of you and focus on it to help keep you steady as you walk.  Try to step forward for as many as 20 steps. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for other balance exercises.

As one of the area’s top senior living communities, MorningStar of Happy Valley will offer exercise classes to improve balance, strengthen muscles, and increase joint flexibility.  Our various enrichment activities and wellness programs are designed to enhance and support our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social connections.  Please visit our website for more information about our beautiful new community opening later this year.

This post is for informational purposes only.  Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercises.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Happy Valley, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/multimedia/balance-exercises/sls-20076853

Short-term Respite Care at Englefield Green

Caring for a loved one can be very rewarding, but it can also be stressful especially when it is a long-term arrangement and there is no cure for what ails your loved one.   If you are a regular caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you need to take a break from time to time for your own wellbeing.  One of the tips experts suggest to get the caregiving help you need is to look into respite care.

At MorningStar at Englefield Green, we offer caregivers the chance to feel comfortable about taking a well-deserved break by providing your loved one with a warm and loving temporary home.  Our entire community is devoted to providing holistic dementia care that is designed to nurture the essence of the individual and reaffirm their dignity and value.  In addition, we are set up to care for those in the early onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

As a short-term respite care resident, your loved one will get all of the amenities and services we provide for our permanent residents.  This includes three daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef that are geared toward encouraging the appetite of those with dementia.  In addition, all of our respite care residents participate in our wellness programs and activities, special events and scheduled outings. 

To ensure the comfort and safety of your loved one, we provide 24-hour care, medication management and group transportation.  Furthermore, our respite care suite (subject to availability) is fully furnished so all you need to do is bring your loved one’s personal items.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community and for contact information on respite care.  You deserve a break from your 24/7 caregiving responsibilities.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other assisted living communities.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best dementia care in Boise.

Seniors and Heat-related Illness

While beautiful, summers in Rio Rancho are hot and sunny with temperatures typically in the upper-80s or higher so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated.   As statistics unfortunately show, during 1999-2009 “approximately 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.”  

Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature.  When people over the age of 65 heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features.  Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun.   

Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.  Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out. Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems.  Furthermore, it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease.   

Diet can also play a role in becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided.  If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s mission is to provide the best senior living in Rio Rancho NM, and our residents enjoy a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  Our deliciously prepared meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage.  Please visit our website for more details and contact information.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

Managing Medications can be Difficult for the Elderly

It is no wonder that some elderly adults get confused with their medications and often miss doses or take too much of a medication. According to 2010 statistics, “medication usage among elderly patients in the US is eye-opening: more than one-third of prescription drugs used in the US are taken by elderly patients; the ambulatory elderly fill between 9-13 prescriptions a year (including new prescriptions and refills).”  In addition the average elderly patient takes more than five prescription medications; and the average nursing home patient takes seven medications.

If your elderly parent is on several medications, do you know if they are managing dosages appropriately?  A quick look in their medicine cabinet or wherever they keep their medications should give you a good idea.  If they have outdated bottles of pills mixed in with current prescriptions or un-opened bags from the pharmacy, chances are they are not doing a good job.  

Experts warn it can be a sensitive topic to broach with your loved one, but if you start slowly, you should be able to help them get things sorted out and organized.  Begin by listing all of the current medications they take including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements and vitamins. Your list should include medicine they take every day and things they use occasionally. 

Now take the list to their pharmacist to see if the combination of what they are taking is safe to do so.  Many drugs can poorly interact with one another or be redundant. Check with their doctor to see if they still need to take a particular drug or is it just getting refilled over and over again.  If it helps, get a new pillbox that better fits their need. There are many choices including color coded and multiple holders. If medication management continues to be a problem, you may need to get more help for your parent.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our assisted living community is designed to provide the utmost care for our residents.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers. If you are you looking for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, please visit our website for more information.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

Want to Tour Rio Rancho’s New Senior Living Community?

MorningStar’s senior living in Rio Rancho NM offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. We have 51 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our memory care residents are cared for in their own Reflections Neighborhood. The expansive area includes 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages. 

While our team is more than willing to brag about how beautiful our home is and to tell interested families all about our resort-style amenities, wide range of care services and wonderful staff, we think you should see it for yourself.  The best way to really experience the loving atmosphere beneath our roof is to take a tour of our senior living community.  

We make setting up a tour easy-to-do as we have a link right on our website.  The online form takes just a few minutes to fill out, and we even give you the chance to let us know your particular areas of interest, and will tailor your visit using those priorities.  

We recommend you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit in order to see what we are all about.  Also if you can, we encourage you to join us for a leisurely lunch; it is a great opportunity to sample our extraordinary food!   If you would like to do so, please count on being with us an additional 45 minutes. Simply let us know when you set up your tour.   Once you submit your online form, someone from our team will get back to you to schedule a day and time that is convenient for you. We look forward to meeting you!

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

The Best Senior Living in Rio Rancho Starts with a Compassionate Team

If you have started the search for the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM has to offer, you may have already discovered that senior living communities are not all the same.  At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we feel that while we offer all of the luxury amenities, care services and wellness programs our residents need, the thing that sets us apart is our loving, professional team.

In order for us to deliver the Service Excellence our MorningStar brand demands, it requires a staff that has one thing in common – a big heart.  Our hiring process starts by looking for individuals with virtues that include kindness, character and selflessness. We look for people who have a felt calling to serve, and feel like we do, that seniors are heroes and deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. 

Upon hiring, each team member takes our Radiance training, which is much more than a customer service program but rather an attitude.  We use it to guide the way we deliver service - with depth of purpose and sincerity, and its percepts are reiterated each day during our daily Huddle.      

Each team member also receives training in our Lavender Sky program that is designed to aid all of our employees, regardless of their positions, to better understand our memory care residents.  It explains the disease and outlines our holistic approach to memory care that includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of a person despite the extent of their memory loss.    

Our MorningStar or Rio Rancho team feels privileged to serve seniors, and we all work together to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Our assisted living offers various levels of support, which is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director. As dementia care experts, we feel it is our calling to care for our most tender residents as well as offer support to their families.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers.

Our “Extraordinary Brand” of Senior Living is Now in Rio Rancho, NM

If you are looking for the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM has to offer, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  Not only are we the city’s newest community but the most unique one with a mission statement of: honoring God in all business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted, contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team’s ability to serve.  We proudly bring to the area our special brand of compassionate assisted living and memory care, and while only open for a short time, we are well on our way to creating a loving “MorningStar family.”   

Although we have all been busy, it has been enjoyable getting to know our new residents as we help them settle into their new home.  We attribute much of our smooth opening to MorningStar’s hardworking team members who embody qualities such as kindness and character.  We also feel blessed to have a group of wonderful residents and their families who have entrusted MorningStar’s team with their care. Another thing that has helped us to get it “right” is the fact that we are part of a company of highly-respected senior living communities spread out across the Western U.S., and thereby have lots of good examples to follow.   Our communities include MorningStar of Albuquerque and MorningStar of Santa Fe.

The MorningStar of Rio Rancho team would love to hear from area families who are interested in our community.  We invite you to give us a call or email us (visit our website for contact information). Our website also has several online links for pricing and availability or to set up a tour. In addition we have lots of resources and information regarding assisted living in general such as how to start a conversation on the subject with an elderly parent.  Moreover, you will find out a lot more about our special brand of assisted living.  Please keep in mind that today’s senior housing is much different than it was even a couple of decades ago and our beautiful new community is a great example.     

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers.

What Sets Englefield Green Apart from Other Communities?

For everyone involved, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease is heart wrenching.  As a family, you are faced with many difficult decisions and that includes deciding what type of living arrangements will best suit your loved one.   

At MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green, we are committed to providing the best dementia care in the Boise area.  So, what is it that sets us apart from other memory care communities?  To start with Englefield Green was specifically designed to serve the needs of those suffering from memory impairment diseases.  Our community, newly opened in the fall of 2017, was built to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings as independently as possible while at the same time ensuring their safety. 

When people visit MorningStar at Englefield Green for the first time, they discover a loving home filled with warm and inviting common areas. Our spacious community has four fireside living rooms, secure courtyards, a life enrichment room, bistro, library, theater (including Wii), and a full salon.  In addition, all residents are encouraged to participate in a full range of daily wellness programs and activities designed to support and engage their physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connections.  We also offer musical entertainment and sing-alongs as well as planned outings such as scenic drives or walks around the neighborhood.   

However, beyond all of our beautiful well-designed surroundings, activities and programs, we are most proud of our caring and loving staff.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.  As dementia care specialists, we feel privileged to walk alongside our residents and their families on this unexpected journey.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other assisted living communities.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best dementia care in Boise.