Should You Have a Power of Attorney for Health Care?

A power of attorney is simply a directive that names someone you trust to act as your agent in the event that you are unable to speak for yourself.  A medical power of attorney, also called an “advance directive,” names someone to specifically act on your behalf in regards to any medical matters.  

If you or a family member is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it is especially important to have a medical power of attorney.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the kinds of medical decisions covered by a power of attorney for health care includes: doctors and health care providers, types of treatment, and care facilities.  The designated medical power of attorney may also need to make some end-of-life decisions such as issuing a “do not resuscitate” (DNR) order or not consenting to a feeding tube when a person reaches the later stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.  

The website, WebMD suggests that a person entrusted to be your medical power of attorney should be someone “who is not intimidated by medical professionals and is willing to ask challenging questions,”   They also add that the person needs to be able to put aside their own feeling about a medical option and be ready to carry out your wishes.  

Drawing up a legal power of attorney for health care does not require an attorney, and if it is appropriate, the same person can be named as your financial and medical power of attorney.  As forms are state-specific, be sure to use the right form for your state. Once you have filled it out, it will probably need to be witnessed, and in some cases may also need to be notarized.  When you have completed the process, let your family and anyone else involved in your care, including your assisted living community, doctor and hospital, have a copy of the form.   

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 our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.   

Sources:  alz.org/help-support/caregiving/financial-legal-planning/legal-documents

webmd.com/palliative-care/advance-directives-medical-power-attorney  

Assisted Living Communities Offer Seniors Comfort and Security

Assisted Living is a fairly new paradigm in wellness and engagement, and is built on a European social model.  It is designed for seniors who do not require 24-hour nursing care but rather just need a little assistance with daily living.  An assisted living community provides a secure and comfortable environment that lets you or your loved one age in place. Furthermore, it gives family members peace of mind knowing that their elderly parent or relative is receiving the care they need.  

Many communities offer a range of amenities that include private suites, libraries, theater, fitness centers as well as creative and wellness programs.  Some of the services typically provided by assisted living communities are daily meals, medication management, help with bathing and dressing and transportation.  With a home-like atmosphere, seniors have the opportunity for companionship and to develop new friendships and interests. 

Assisted living can also provide a safer option for many seniors than living alone as help is much closer at hand.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “More than one out of four older people falls each year” and “Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.”   In fact, three million U.S. seniors go to emergency rooms for fall-related injuries every year.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Rio Rancho, we think seniors are a national treasure and they deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.  Our beautiful community offers a choice of 51 well-appointed, private assisted living suites. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 26 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  If you are looking for the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM, please give us a call so we can help you find your new home.    

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.

Source: cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

Communicating with a Loved One Suffering from Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.   

Typically in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back. 

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions.  Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.      

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity. 

MorningStar at Englefield Green offers the Boise area compassionate, personalized dementia care for those at the onset of the disease or well into the advanced stages.  Our memory care unit consists of 50 suites, including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Englefield Green brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “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. We are dedicated to creating a true home within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best memory care unit in Boise.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

Does Assisted Living Offer a Better Lifestyle?

Many seniors are pleasantly surprised to discover that moving to an assisted living community is not the worst thing to happen to them.  In fact, statistics show that for many seniors it is a healthier, more agreeable alternative to living alone. The reason some seniors are initially reluctant to make the move is that they are unaware of the significant changes that have occurred in senior living over the last several years especially in terms of care options and amenities.  

Today’s communities like MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley offer assisted living and memory care that is geared toward meeting aging adult’s physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  Also for many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For seniors living alone, assisted living provides the opportunity for socializing whether it is with planned activities or in common areas designed to encourage relaxed interactions.  Even if you are someone who values your privacy, community living offers the benefit of private suites with the comfort of having others around.   

Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.  

At MorningStar we also provide scheduled transportation and planned outings to a variety of places such as the local mall, a park or to see a play.  Furthermore, for many seniors cooking and preparing meals is difficult and we solve that problem by providing tasty, nutritional daily meals. Please see our website or contact us for more information on how assisted living may be the right decision for you or your loved one.   

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a tour to discover one of the area’s top assisted living and memory care communities.   

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/

Isolation and Loneliness May Increase Physical and Mental Decline

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), “18 percent of seniors live alone, while 43 percent report feeling lonely on a regular basis.”   They also found that people 60 years or older who reported being lonely had a 45% increase in a risk of death.  Furthermore, seniors who felt isolated had almost a 60% increase in the risk of mental and physical decline than those seniors who had more social contact.  

Conversely, studies cited by the National Institute on Aging show “people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose. These activities seem to help maintain their well-being and may improve their cognitive function.”

There are many reasons that seniors attribute to their feelings of loneliness: retirement, death of a spouse and other family members, and a lack of mobility.  Another factor leading to isolation for some seniors is that more people are choosing to not have children, which reduces the number of family members with a stake in their well-being. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our mission is to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho offers, and we provide seniors companionship along with a wide assortment of creative, thoughtful activities.   A quick look at our community’s monthly calendar shows a steady stream of activities such as exercise classes, cards, word and puzzle games, movie nights, church services, book club, bingo, restaurant-style dining and much more.  Contact us to learn more about our beautiful home-like atmosphere and the comfort, wellness and community we offer to our residents.     

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.

Sources:  agingcare.com/Articles/loneliness-in-the-elderly-151549.htm

nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks

The Benefits of Exercise

Research shows that one of the best benefits of exercise is a longer life.  The World Health Organization (WHO) states that even gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming can increase a seniors’ lifespan by approximately three to five years.  

Regular exercise is also attributed to preventing falls, which is a big problem for elderly adults and can have serious consequences.  WHO explains that regular exercise improves muscle strength and bone density as well as improves balance.  Statistics indicate regular exercise reduces the risk of hip fractures by up to 40%.  

Seniors who participate in regular exercise can help to reduce their risk for osteoporosis and fractures.  Bone density is improved by doing weight-bearing exercises such as walking or jogging. The risk for other common health conditions such as stroke or heart attack are reduced by doing exercises that raises the heart rate and increases blood flow.  

Research also suggests exercise may help to delay or reduce the risk of developing dementia.  According to a recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, staying physically active appears to be as good for your brain as it is for your heart.   Another unexpected benefit is elderly adults appear to feel more confidence and independent.  

So how much do older adults need to exercise to receive the most benefit?  WHO recommends that seniors do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intense aerobic physical activity a week.  Aerobic activity should be done in at least 10 minute intervals. WHO also states older adults with poor mobility should “perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on 3 or more days per week.”  

Examples of Morningstar of Fountain Hills’ exercise opportunities include our Total Body Workout, Parkinson's Exercise Class, and a walking group as well as a fitness center and other special activities. We offer 63 assisted living suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans with some over 850 square feet.  Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 28 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.

Before starting any physical exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we represent the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for our residents.  Please schedule a visit to our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

Less Hospitalization for Those in Senior Living Communities

A Place for Mom posted the results of a study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, which was published in the journal, The Gerontologist.  The study focused on “vulnerable” seniors, who were defined as older adults with moderate or low incomes who lived alone. The purpose of the study was to “understand how the senior living environment can mitigate the effects of multiple chronic conditions on hospitalizations.”

Hospitalization information from participants in the Health Retirement Study was compared with the results of the question, ““Is your home part of a retirement community, senior citizens’ housing or another type of housing that offers services for older adults or someone with a disability?”  Results showed that older adults with multiple chronic conditions in senior living communities were less likely to experience high levels of hospitalization than those who lived alone. Researchers believe there are positive effects accrued from the various support services available in senior housing environments, which help vulnerable elders to better manage their health conditions.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills we provide all the services needed to support and enhance our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing.  Our residents are provided with 24/7 Care Managers, access to licensed nurses, Medication Managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations, scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and much more.  In addition, we offer a wide range of wellness programs and activities that are sure to keep you as busy as you like.  

Please visit our website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.”  While you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour.  

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.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/better-health-lower-levels-of-hospitalization-in-senior-living/   

Medications to Lower Blood Pressure May Reduce Risk of Dementia

A large study out of Europe found a link between older adults who take blood pressure-lowering drugs and a lower risk of developing dementia.  Medical News Today explains that while researchers are still unclear as to what causes dementia, much work is being done to improve prevention strategies.  By studying “potential risk factors that may contribute to the development of this condition,” scientists say they hope to learn more about connections between certain health conditions and higher rates of dementia.   

Another study published last year in the journal, Neurology, found that patients with hypertension had a higher risk of experiencing brain lesions related to dementia.  In this newest study from the University of Leipzig in Germany, the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines in France, and the Frankfurt, Germany branch of IQVIA, researchers had access to a large database that collects and stores health information on millions of people.   

Using the Disease Analyzer database, researchers looked at 12,405 people, aged 60 and older, with or without dementia.  They compared those who took antihypertensive drugs with those who had for periods of time or had never taken the drugs.  Results showed that those who took “certain antihypertensive drugs — including beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers — seemed to have a lower risk of dementia.”   

The study authors warn that antihypertensive drugs do not guarantee a person will not develop dementia.  They say rather it highlights the benefits of such drugs.   

MorningStar at Englefield Green’s goal is to be one of the best Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise, Idaho.  Every aspect of our memory care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

The mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other Alzheimer’s care homes.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, and offers loving, compassionate care in a beautiful residential setting.  We encourage you to schedule a tour to see for yourself the finest memory care in Boise.   

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325393.php

Seniors Benefit from Being Social

Just because someone is older, it doesn’t mean the need for company, support and love lessens any.  Studies have found a consistent social life is particularly important to seniors’ emotional, physical and mental wellbeing.  However due to lifestyle changes many seniors experience such as retiring from the workplace, the death of a spouse and/or other close family and friends, and no longer driving, older adults can find themselves socially isolated.  

Having a healthy social life alleviates feelings of loneliness as well as helps to reduce the likelihood of depression, which is common among seniors.  It also helps to stave off cognitive decline and lessen anxiety.   

Seniors with a more robust social life have been found to exercise more, which in itself can lead to better mental as well as physical health by strengthening the heart and immune system.  Researchers have found longevity to be another benefit of socialization, and maintaining a healthy social life is believed to improve seniors’ self-esteem and sense of worth.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills provides a true home for our residents with a mission of building a “Family for Life.”  Our team consists of compassionate, loving individuals who have a felt calling to serve. In addition, we offer a wide range of onsite amenities and services to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of our residents.  Our monthly calendar is loaded with meaningful wellness programs along with fun, entertaining activities.  Moreover, both assisted living and memory care residents can participate in scheduled outings and special events.  

Please visit our website to learn more about our loving community.  Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community along with beautifully appointed common spaces and well-designed suites, we are confident you will be impressed. 

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.

Source: healthfully.com/543831-the-importance-of-elderly-exercise-socialization-programs.html

It is Important for Those with Dementia to Maintain Their Overall Health

Seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia need to maintain their overall health as studies have found that poor health is associated with greater symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  This is why experts stress the importance of being under the care of a qualified doctor and following good health habits such as exercise, eating nutrient-rich meals, and properly caring for any chronic or new health problems.  

Doctors also advise the individual should have routine hearing and vision exams and any problems be treated appropriately.  Along with being seen by their primary care provider, the person should see specialists as needed. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation explains that co-existing medical conditions may negatively impact Alzheimer’s behaviors. They state one example where “frequent urinary tract infections may increase wandering, and depression disrupts sleep and deepens social withdrawal.”   

While it is important for all seniors to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, it is especially so for people with dementia as they may experience problems with eating.  Nerve damage associated with the disease may result in extreme eating disorders such as overeating or not eating at all. The person may also have trouble smelling and tasting or chewing food and digesting it, so what they do eat needs to be healthy.  In later stages of the disease, the person may also have difficulty using a knife or fork.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we understand the disease and the different stages it takes.  Our team of memory care specialists creates an individualized care plan for each resident based on their needs, personality and preferences.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations including spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments.  Please contact us for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour to experience our compassionate, loving 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.

When Your Parent Makes the Move to Assisted Living

While many older adults wish to live out their senior years at home, for some, it is not a manageable option. Moreover, no matter our age, change can be challenging, and it is no different for seniors when the time comes for them move into an assisted living community.  

To ease the transition, experts offer several tips that can help make the move less stressful.  One suggestion is to start planning way ahead of the time you anticipate you will need to make the move.  So if you can, do not wait until your parent needs to go from a hospital stay into assisted living. The advantage to starting your search way in advance of the move is it allows you the time to find a place ideally suited to your loved ones’ needs and personality.  Always remember it is a huge life transition and should be treated as such. 

If possible, it is recommended to try and pick from one of the assisted living communities in the area they reside in as it allows them to retain some continuity in their lives including keeping their doctors.  They can also continue to visit area friends and companions. If you will be moving the person to another town or state to be closer to family, keep in mind this can be especially difficult and your parent may need even more support.  Experts advise in this situation to have more services in place rather than less. If later you find you do not need some of them, you can cancel them.  

Another tip is to visit the new community as often as possible before the move.  Along with a formal tour of the community, make arrangements for them to have lunch there several times before they move in or participate in an activity or special event.  The more familiar they are with their new home the easier the transition will be.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s goal is to be the best assisted living and memory care in the area, and we work hard to create a true “home” for residents. Our community has 61 private assisted living suites available in a variety of configurations including spacious studio and one and two-bedroom floorplans.  We have another 27 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for pricing and availability.      

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.   

The Effects of Watching TV on Older Adults

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 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."

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, residents have a whole lot more to do than just watching TV.  Our senior living in Rio Rancho NM provides 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.  With such a broad range of activities, we are sure you will find something of interest, such as exercise classes, reading groups, painting classes, trivia and card games, arts and crafts, entertainment and much more.  Please call or 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.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324598.php

MorningStar of Happy Valley Delivers Care with Love and Respect

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission is to provide the best assisted living and memory care possible.  To ensure we meet our standard of service excellence, each of MorningStar’s team members from caregivers to dining servers or housekeepers go through our proprietary service excellence “Radiance” training.  In addition, its precepts are reiterated during our daily “Huddle.” Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness, which issues from a deep and sincere place as does a beam of light, and is the framework that guides the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth.         

As one team member from a MorningStar community writes, “Radiance training is absolutely phenomenal!”  She says she appreciates the fact that it helps team members to be their best at work as well as in their personal lives and creates an environment where residents are treated with the utmost care.  Another team member shares: “People always ask me why I love my job so much. For me it’s not always about money, but the difference you can make in someone’s life. MorningStar has done so much for me in the short time I have been here. Not only am I changing residents’ lives but they are changing mine.”

We believe Radiance is the evidence of our resolve to be a place that is not only distinguished by compassion and care, but by service professionalism as its presence and influence is felt throughout our community.  Under its teachings, residents are treated as family members, and as such, our priority is to respond to their expressed and unexpressed needs and wishes.

Please contact us for more information about our assisted living and memory care as well as all of the services, amenities and programs we offer residents.  

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.   

Learn More about the New MorningStar Community in Rio Rancho, NM

Have you heard that the MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community opened to residents a few months ago?  If not the MorningStar name may still be new to you, and as such, you are unaware of the extensive amenities, wellness programs and care services we offer.  You also may not know that MorningStar already has a highly respected community in Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

There are several ways to keep up with the goings-on at MorningStar of Rio Rancho including visiting our website periodically.  Right on our home page, we have links to our monthly calendars along with a map and directions to our community.  We also have direct links to our amenities page as well as one to our suite features and various floor plans and a gallery of pictures.   If you wish to set up a tour or learn more about pricing and availability, you can do it through our online forms.  

Another convenient way to learn more about our community or to keep in touch with us is to sign-up for our EVENTful Blog to hear about upcoming events and our newest offers.  All you need to do is to fill out your email address and let us know if you are a senior or the family of one; or a health or business professional, and we will send you updates.  

What sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers?  MorningStar of Rio Rancho is staffed by a team of compassionate caregivers who consider seniors to be heroes and feel privileged to serve them.  While luxurious and beautiful, our mission is to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals. MorningStar is committed to creating a home for our residents that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while at the same time, providing security and independence.   

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.

Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Have you recently noticed some signs of memory loss or confusion in a parent or another loved one?  Are you worried it may be the beginning of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  We understand this may be a touchy subject to broach with your loved one, which is why experts recommend you do your homework first and learn about the common signs of the disease.   

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in cognitive abilities, executive function and behavior.  Those afflicted may start having memory problems along with difficulty completing familiar tasks. They may also become confused as to time and place.  Other problems involve a marked change in their judgement and trouble with language skills and abstract thinking. Mood swings or changes in personality can also signal Alzheimer’s.  All of these are common signs that can point to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia but only a specialist can make a diagnosis. You should ask your loved one’s healthcare provider for a recommendation to a neurologist who will perform test to eliminate other causes for the behavior.     

MorningStar of Fountain Hills is committed to provide the best assisted living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. Please contact us for more information about our compassionate, loving community. We look forward to meeting you and your family.  

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

Source:  alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

MorningStar at Englefield Green Offers Compassionate Memory Care

At MorningStar at Englefield Green, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar at Englefield Green offers experienced, compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages. 

Our memory care consists of 50 secure suites including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  The community is specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to move safely about their spacious surroundings.  Also given the nature of dementia, residents pay one price for their suite and their care regardless of the level of memory loss. 

As dementia care experts, our unique approach and philosophy to caring for those afflicted with the disease is called “Lavender Sky.”  We know the essence of the person remains despite the level of memory loss, and our job is to nurture and support the individual by finding ways to calm or stimulate as the situation demands.  Lavender Sky provides the path for us to enter, embrace, and explore the “purple world” of memory loss, and to cross over the physical, emotional, and relational boundaries that would otherwise separate us.    

Every aspect of our home is designed to provide the comfort, wellness and safety our special residents require including mealtime.  We know those suffering from memory loss can sometimes have compromised abilities at the table.  We address this by providing a selection of finger foods, texture-modified diets (mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids), and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.   

We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about one of Boise’s best Alzheimer’s care homes 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 mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other Alzheimer’s care homes.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, and offers loving, compassionate care in a beautiful residential setting.  We encourage you to schedule a tour to see for yourself the finest memory care in Boise.   

Regular Exercise Can Increase Lifespan

Research shows that one of the best benefits of exercise is a longer life.  The World Health Organization (WHO) states that even gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming can increase a seniors’ lifespan by approximately three to five years.  

Regular exercise is also attributed to preventing falls, which is a big problem for elderly adults and can have serious consequences.  WHO explains that regular exercise improves muscle strength and bone density as well as improves balance. Statistics indicate regular exercise reduces the risk of hip fractures by up to 40%.  

Seniors who participate in regular exercise can help to reduce their risk for osteoporosis and fractures.  Bone density is improved by doing weight-bearing exercises such as walking or jogging. The risk for other common health conditions such as stroke or heart attack are reduced by doing exercises that raises the heart rate and increases blood flow.  

Research also suggests exercise may help to delay or reduce the risk of developing dementia.  According to a recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, staying physically active appears to be as good for your brain as it is for your heart.   Another unexpected benefit is elderly adults appear to feel more confidence and independent.  

So how much do older adults need to exercise to receive the most benefit?  WHO recommends that seniors do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intense aerobic physical activity a week.  Aerobic activity should be done in at least 10 minute intervals. WHO also states older adults with poor mobility should “perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on 3 or more days per week.”  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, a new senior living community, we offer area seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Examples of Morningstar’s exercise opportunities may include walking clubs, WellStar fitness, and Sit & Be Fit classes as well as a fitness room and other special activities. We offer 61 assisted living suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans with some over 850 square feet.  Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 27 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.

Before starting any physical exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

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 our exceptional senior living community.   

Specialized, Loving Memory Care at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our mission is to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers, which includes specialized, loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

MorningStar Senior Living operates over 25 senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar of Rio Rancho benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained over their 16 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 to provide care to our most special residents.  By devoting a separate area to memory care called our Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.  

Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. We also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.

In addition to our Reflections Neighborhood for memory care, MorningStar of Rio Rancho offers 51 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with a choice of spacious one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  Please visit our website to learn more about our approach to memory care and our exceptional community.

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.

As We Age, So Do Our Eyes

Starting in our late thirties or forties, it is common for people to develop Presbyopia, a normal condition that causes our eyes to gradually lose their ability to see things clearly up close.  Even the word "presbyopia" means "old eye" in Greek. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are several conditions and diseases that occur more commonly in older eyes, which is why they recommend eye exam guidelines specifically for older adults. 

To start, they advise all adults to have a comprehensive baseline eye evaluation by an ophthalmologist at age 40.  For people age 40 to mid-fifties without risk factors, the recommendation is to have one every 2 to 4 years. At 55 to 64, eye exams should be done every 1 to 3 years.  From age 65 and older, adults without risk factors should be examined every 1 to 2 years.    

Routine eye exams for seniors are important as many age-related eye diseases do not exhibit symptoms early.  Also, any one with health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and even certain medications as well as environmental factors like sun exposure and smoking can cause eye-related problems.   

Senior eye diseases include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and other eye conditions.  Women are more likely than men to have glaucoma and somewhat more likely to have cataracts. In addition, the American Academy of Ophthalmology wants seniors to know that vision problems are not a normal part of aging and may indicate a problem.  Also remember to keep your ophthalmologist apprised of any new health conditions.     

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides residents with unsurpassed assisted living and memory care.  Residents are offered a wide range of care services including transportation to medical appointments, scheduled physician visits, onsite diagnostics, pharmaceutical, and much more.  

For informational purposes only, please consult your eye care or health care professional if you notice any problems with your vision.  

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 our new assisted living and memory care community.

Source: aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/seniors-vision-develop

Life-long Learning is Good for Brain Health

Several studies indicate life-long learning is good for seniors’ brain health and starting a new hobby or learning a skill late in life can help to boost a person’s memory.  In one study from the University of Texas at Dallas, researchers found that older adults “who took on a new mentally challenging hobby saw a lasting increase in their memory skills.”  They theorize that when seniors mentally challenge themselves with new skills such as playing an instrument, learning to operate a computer, or being taught to quilt, networks within the brain are being strengthened.  

Neurologists in another study from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland discovered that a lifelong pursuit of mentally challenging activities may actually help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.  Their findings suggest that older adults “who frequently read, played mentally challenging games like chess, or engaged in other intellectually stimulating activities are 2.5 times less likely to have Alzheimer’s, which impacts approximately 4 million Americans.”

Other research out of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School appear to support these findings.  Their study relied on interviews as well as brain scans of participants, and findings indicate that seniors who have had a higher level of intellectual stimulation throughout the course of their lives, showed a marked delay in the onset of memory-related problems and other Alzheimer’s type symptoms.    

At MorningStar, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless, and feel it is our privilege to provide seniors an environment where they can be productive and engaged each day.  Our Life Enrichment Team presents creative ways to stay active and enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection. If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.

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.