MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care

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MorningStar at Englefield Green Offers Exceptional Memory Care

April 27, 2020 by Rena Phillips

MorningStar at Englefield Green is proud to offer exceptional specialized, loving memory care in Boise.  Our parent company, MorningStar Senior Living, operates senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar at Englefield Green 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 - our privilege – to provide care to our tender residents.  Our community was built in full consideration of the dispositions and behaviors of those with dementia-related memory impairment and residents have the independence to safely move about their spacious surroundings.

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

MorningStar wants you to know that during the COVID-19 outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof.

Please visit our website for more information about our dedicated and compassionate memory care.  We consider it an honor to walk alongside the memory-impaired (and their families) on this unexpected journey.

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

April 27, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimer's
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MorningStar’s Approach to COVID-19

April 27, 2020 by Rena Phillips

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we are staying vigilant in our approach to the outbreak of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) disease.   Our highest priority is to the health and safety of our residents, their families and our staff members.   

We are doing all we can to achieve this including instituting a policy that temporarily suspends non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our home.  MorningStar is also keeping up-to-date and following closely, and in many cases exceeding, guidelines set by the CDC to ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone in our home.   

Some of these actions include having all assisted living residents dine in their suites with the exception of those with an Individualized Service Plan that requires assistance with eating.  They will be served in the dining room, widely spaced from one another.  Our memory care residents will dine as usual but they too will be spread out as far apart as possible.  Other steps include suspending all non-essential visits (medical personal and end-of-life situations are the exception), eliminating all resident outings, and cancelling all events and outside entertainment.  

All of our team members have received training on infection control with an emphasis on hand sanitation including information from the CDC on COVID-19 and the uniqueness of this viral strain.  We have ordered extra disinfectants and other cleaning supplies as we as modified and increased the frequency of our cleaning practices throughout our home.    

However most importantly of all, our team knows our residents well and is on high alert for any signs of respiratory illness, and has plans in place to address this including protocols for quarantine and relocation, as needed.  We invite you to visit our website to read our full coronavirus COVID-19 update.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 compassionate, comfortable assisted living suites with options that include spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans, some as large as 865 square feet.  We also have 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about availability and pricing.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

April 27, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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Visit Our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

April 27, 2020 by Rena Phillips

If you have started the search for senior living in the Happy Valley-Clackamas area we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community.  While we only opened to residents late last year, we are proud to say we have already earned a reputation as a beautiful and loving home.

We always suggest that families schedule a tour of MorningStar to get a firsthand look, but as a way to get you started; our website contains lots of information about our community as well as more general information.  Among our Family Resources, which include a Decision Guide and information on Affordability and Veterans, we also provide a comprehensive FAQs section.        

Here you will read about our unique brand of “senior loving homes” as well as learn a little something about our mission.  We explain how it is our privilege - our calling, to love all those beneath our roof, which starts by hiring team members with servants’ hearts who are drawn to the idea of working with seniors.  In addition, our service is guided by Radiance, and designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.  

Within our FAQs, you will also find answers explaining what assisted living is, the type of services we offer, and how your level of care is determined (it is based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director).  This information allows us to set up a customized care plan that is reviewed periodically to keep up with any changing health needs.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless.  Each day we strive to provide seniors an environment where they can be productive and engaged.  Please visit our website to set up a tour or to request information on pricing and availability on compassionate senior living in Happy Valley, OR.           

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

April 27, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s Extensive Care Services

April 26, 2020 by Rena Phillips

For the area’s finest senior housing, Rio Rancho area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging.  By defining health and well-being holistically, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit.   Together our Life Enrichment programs and our Wellness Care services complement one other to ensure each resident get the best care.  

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health.  These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.     

We are also proud that our assisted living residents benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.  This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).  In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand.  It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.   

Our broad care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director.  Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7.  MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management.  Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as pharmacy services, onsite dental and podiatry services and more.    

Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour. Our community includes 51 bright suites for assisted living and another 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.     

April 26, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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MorningStar of Happy Valley’s Holistic View of Healthcare

April 25, 2020 by Rena Phillips

MorningStar of Happy Valley, located southeast of Portland, OR, offers residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Together MorningStar’s Enrichment team and our Wellness Care team play a large role in why our beautiful community is the best choice for senior living in the area.  

To start with, all assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more).  Also they have access to a licensed nurse onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock; and every shift has an employee who is CPR certified.  We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically do Care Plan reviews and update residents’ care plan as needed.   

Our centralized, mobile Electronic Health Record (EHR) system ensures accurate records of assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records).   The system maintains accurate, legible and complete demographic and medical information on residents as well as enhances privacy and security of the data.  

Other clinical care services provided by MorningStar include mechanical lift assistance, diabetic management, oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care and more.  We provide scheduled physician visits, a choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.  

This wide scope of care services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health and helps to extend the stay of our residents even when health conditions change.  We also pride ourselves on finding creative solutions that can result in higher quality of care at a lower cost for families.  For a full list of care services, we encourage you to visit our website and take a look at our Care Services page.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

April 25, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia

Looking for a Community Offering Comfort, Wellness & Love?

April 22, 2020 by Rena Phillips

How does a senior living community with a picturesque setting offering resort-style amenities and a choice of stylish, private apartments sound?  How would you like to live in a home with its own 24-hour bistro or salon offering haircuts, manicures or pedicures?  Our recently opened MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community is just that as it is filled with warm and welcoming common areas both inside and out.  Want to sit and chat with family or friends?  Spend some quiet time in our library, or take advantage of the beautiful weather in one of our courtyards?  Or do you want to enjoy a little exercise and take a walk along our strolling paths?

To ensure we satisfy the need of the most discerning seniors, our 61 assisted living, bright suites are available in configurations that include spacious studios and one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 865 square feet).   Each suite is ready to move into and just requires your furnishings and personal items (we are also pet friendly).    

How does a wide range of meaningful wellness programs and activities along with all of the care services you need right at hand sound?   Again, MorningStar of Happy Valley has that completely covered.  Our enrichment programs include everything to enhance health and wellness, stimulate your brain and encourage connection.  MorningStar’s care services are broad and include a licensed nurse both onsite and on call 24/7; 24-hour care managers; a CPR-trained staff member on every shift; medication management by certified med care managers; care planning reviews, scheduled health & wellness evaluations and more.  

But wait; have we mentioned our delicious, nutritional meals?  MorningStar of Happy Valley is extremely proud of our daily food service, which is prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and graciously served restaurant-style in our elegant dining room.  If you would love to learn more, please see our website for to set up a tour of our beautiful home! 

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability or to set up a tour of the finest assisted living and memory care in the Happy Valley–Clackamas area.

April 22, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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April 20, 2020 by Rena Phillips

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), one out of every four Americans aged 65 and older falls every year and the majority of these falls occur at home.  In fact, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. There are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to a fall and there are steps you can take to help decrease the likelihood of it happening.  

Many elderly adults experience a general overall decline in their physical fitness resulting in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility that make them more susceptible to a fall.  Another common problem shared by many seniors is impaired vision.  This can make it more difficult to detect fall hazards such as steps, thresholds, and obstacles and changes in the ground. 

Certain types of medications, especially the side effects, can cause drowsiness, dizziness or low blood pressure, which can all increase the risk of a fall.  Also keep in mind it is not just prescription drugs but over-the-counter medications can contribute to balance problems as well.  Other factors that make seniors more susceptible to falls are chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis as well as surgical procedures including hip or knee replacement.   

The NIA recommends installing night lights in the hallways and bathrooms and to have a light switch and phone within reach of the bed.  Keep walkways free of clutter and avoid using throw rugs and area carpets.  Use hand rails when going up and down the stairs, and if you have a pet, make sure they are not underfoot.  In the bathroom, install grab bars in the tub and near the toilet, and use non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our loving assisted living and memory care community makes residents’ safety and wellbeing a priority.  We provide 24-hour care, a licensed nurse on call 24/7, and provide suites equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, an emergency call system and more. Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.     


April 20, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, assisted living, Aging
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Have Questions about MorningStar of Rio Rancho?

April 17, 2020 by Rena Phillips

If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho. We understand for many seniors, assisted living is a new experience and that there are lots of questions in regard to how personalized care is managed and how much it will cost.  

The MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, our website offers lots of resources regarding MorningStar Senior Living including our company’s history and philosophy as well as details on how we determine the individualized care each resident will receive. 

Under our website’s FAQ section, we explain that our assisted living care is based on a thorough assessment of the resident’s medical history and personal preferences.  We learn this information by sitting down with the person, their family, and our Wellness Director before they move in.   From there, a care plan is created that is approved by both the resident and their family.  To ensure our residents’ needs continue to be met, we do schedule plan evaluations as well as update plans as needed.     

Within our assisted living, we have five levels of care along with a wide range of auxiliary medical and non-medical services that are priced a la carte.  Care services determine a part of your monthly fee, but it is also based on the type of suite you choose within our choice of 51 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.  Square footage as well as location and views are additional factors in the overall monthly fee.   

MorningStar of Rio Rancho also provides 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  The monthly fee in our memory care Reflections Neighborhood is all-inclusive at a one-package price for both the suite and care.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.     

April 17, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, assisted living, Aging
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MorningStar of Fountain Hills Offers a Holistic Approach to Wellness

April 15, 2020 by Rena Phillips

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our mission is to provide seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  To ensure residents the finest assisted living and memory care, we define health and well-being holistically and back it up with an array of services and programming that support the whole person in mind, body and spirit. 

Wellness is enhanced through our Life Enrichment wellness programs and activities as well as through our Wellness Care Team.  At MorningStar, we have the expertise and authority to provide the level of resident care that can extend the stay of residents in spite of changing health conditions.  To this end, we pride ourselves on working hard to create solutions for residents and their families that result in higher quality of care at lower costs.  

Assisted living residents are thoroughly evaluated by our Wellness Director when they join our community in order to create a care plan that is appropriate to their needs.  In addition, we do routine Care Planning Reviews and scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations to make sure residents continue to get the right amount of assistance as they need it.

Our care services include 24-hour Care Managers and a CPR trained staff member on every shift, Licensed Nurses on call 24/7, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, and palliative/hospice care.  We also offer oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care, diabetic management and more. Our residents are provided transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.  Please visit our website to read the full list of all of our services, and if you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to give us a call.  

Located in the beautiful Valley of the Sun, MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers 63 private suites for assisted living in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Also, 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. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care community in the area.

April 15, 2020 /Rena Phillips
assisted living, seniors, dementia
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MorningStar at Englefield Green’s Approach to Memory Care

April 15, 2020 by Rena Phillips

MorningStar at Englefield Green provides 50 secure suites devoted to the care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community is specially designed to encourage residents’ independence as much as possible, while providing individualized care that stimulates or calms as the situation requires. 

At MorningStar our approach to memory care is designed around our comprehensive program we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our philosophy encourages us to walk alongside a resident as we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the world of dementia.  With insight and intentionality, we enter into our memory-impaired residents’ “purple world” to cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. We also educate the families of those afflicted with dementia on how to follow our lead and enter too.

Another important aspect of our unique methodology is to accept the diagnosis of dementia and embrace the fact (we know it is difficult) that this is the path we must take together.  By embracing a deep understanding of the disease, it allows us to embrace the necessary changes in our own communication style as well as physically embrace residents with the power of touch. And most importantly we embrace hope. 

Finally, Lavender Sky explores a boundless variety of resourceful and individualized solutions for we recognize that what works today may not work tomorrow.  When residents come to MorningStar at Englefield Green, we explore the person’s life including their background, interests and preferences to create a specialized care plan.  We also explore ways to engage and involve their family members.

As you can see, memory care at our community springs from a deep understanding of the disease and is offered with the utmost love and compassion.   Please visit our website to learn more.

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 our exceptional memory care.

 

April 15, 2020 /Rena Phillips
memory care
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Planning Your Next Visit to an Assisted Living Resident

April 14, 2020 by Rena Phillips

If an elderly parent is in assisted living and has limited mobility, you may feel it is difficult to think of things to talk about or to do when you visit.  By organizing an activity such as scrapbooking, it can help to keep everyone engaged as well as inspire your loved one to start sharing stories about the “good old days.”  As you start documenting their life story, it will likely bring back memories they may have forgotten and/or ones the rest of the family knows anything about.  

To get started, visit your local craft store or shop on the Internet for scrapbooking supplies that will help you create a book that is uniquely your parent’s.  Your next step is to help gather and organize the photos and materials in chronological order that will go into the scrapbook.  

If the project seems too overwhelming for your parent, have them pick a theme such as family vacations or weddings through the years, or do one that focuses on their childhood and early years.  Before you start to glue things in, take the time to layout the photos and mementos for each page; and most importantly, encourage and enjoy the stories and memories shared by your loved one.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills is committed to providing seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Along with our resort-style amenities and beautiful private suites, we offer a whole range of wellness programs and activities including many arts and crafts projects.  Visit our website to learn more about availability and pricing.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care community in the area.

April 14, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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Have You Noticed Signs of Memory Loss in a Loved One?

April 14, 2020 by Rena Phillips

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 Rio Rancho is committed to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho offers, 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.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Rio Rancho, “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.     

April 14, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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Isolated Seniors are at Risk for a Range of Health Problems

April 13, 2020 by Rena Phillips

Studies show that socialization is a key component to a senior’s overall health and can help to reduce stress and anxiety and maintain cognitive health as well as improve longevity.  Conversely older adults who are isolated have been found to be more at risk for a range of health problems including cardiovascular disease and depression.  

Researchers also found that the more social a person is the more likely they are to exercise on a regular basis.  This is important as older adults are susceptible to a number of health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart trouble, cancer and chronic illnesses that can benefit from exercise. In addition, daily exercise can prevent muscles and bones from deteriorating in old age.  A good way for older adults to exercise is at a community class designed for seniors as you have the opportunity to socialize and to stay motivated.  

Offering the best in senior living communities, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills provides a healthy lifestyle designed around comfort, wellness and community.  Our mission is to care for residents’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs within a loving, secure setting. MorningStar’s monthly calendar consists of a range of exercise classes, arts and crafts projects, and enjoyable, challenging games.  We also have fun celebrating holidays and hosting special events and outings.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers 63 assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans as large as 870 square feet.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Please visit our website to learn more.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

Source: 

actsretirement.org/latest-retirement-news/blog/2017/12/12/the-importance-of-socializing-for-seniors/

April 13, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
memory care 4.jpg

Keeping Your Mind Sharp

April 12, 2020 by Rena Phillips

As we age, engaging in memory exercises is just important as physically excising our bodies. The Alzheimer’s Association offers recommendations on some easy ways to daily exercise our brain with activities that include reading, writing and doing crossword or other puzzles, playing games and attending events such as lectures or plays.  

They state that there are four areas we can work on to help reduce our risk of cognitive decline: physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, cognitive activity, and social engagement.  In fact, research has found that simply by keeping our brains active, we can actually increase its vitality and may even help to generate new brain cells.   

An article on the “6 simple steps to keep your mind sharp at any age” from the Harvard Health Publication outlines ways to help prevent cognitive decline and reduce your risk of dementia.  The article stresses the importance of continuing to learn as challenging our brains with mental exercises is “believed to activate processes that help maintain individual brain cells and stimulate communication among them.”

MorningStar of Fountain Hills could not agree more.  Our assisted living community is loaded with activities that are not only fun but also help to stimulate our brains.  Just a quick look at our monthly calendar shows an abundance of activities such as word, board, and trivia games that help to challenge our brains.  Residents at MorningStar enjoy games such as Rummikub, Bingo, Blackjack, and Yahtzee.    

Regardless of personal interest, our seniors find plenty to do to keep them interested in life.   With a range of activities such as poetry readings, writing club, arts and crafts, and fun-filled card games, residents stay social and keep their brains active.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the very best in senior living with a mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care community in the area.

April 12, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, seniors
Copy of MorningStar Assisted Living - Love Lives Here.jpg

Compassionate Memory Care at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

April 11, 2020 by Rena Phillips

While there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s and many other dementia-related diseases, it is important to provide the person with the proper level of care.  At MorningStar of Fountain Hills our goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, and we have the amenities and services to ensure the comfort, safety and wellbeing of our memory care residents.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 suites that are completely devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  We are proud of our staff that is trained in progressive therapeutic approaches to palliate symptoms for our special residents.  

The creative side of our care begins with learning about each resident.  We interview the family to get a thorough understanding of a person’s history, and use that knowledge to aid in their care and to develop a trust between the resident and our care team. As a way to calm and awaken memories as well as support and encourage residents’ capabilities, our professional methods include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy.

Another important aspect of our program is to provide plenty of recreational and purposeful activities such as music, life skills, art, entertainers and exercise.  To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure patio and courtyard reserved just for memory care residents.  

Also bear in mind that we accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual. In fact, one of our mission statements is to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals, and from this precept, comes our attentiveness to the unique voice, the rights and preferences of each resident.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

April 11, 2020 /Rena Phillips
assisted living, seniors, dementia
morningstar general 11.jpg

Having a Pet Makes Life Better for Seniors

April 10, 2020 by Rena Phillips

It turns out that being a pet owner can provide a range of benefits to seniors including helping them to live longer, healthier and more enjoyable lives.  One clinical study done several years ago tracked heart disease survivors after they were discharged from the hospital.  Studying survivors’ medical histories, lifestyles, families, and relationships, it found that, "The presence of a pet was the strongest social predictor of survival...not just for lonely or depressed people, but everyone - independent of marital status and access to social support from human beings."  

Another study done by the American Psychological Association found pets provide an important source of social support to their elderly owners.  Researchers explain that senior pet owners “fared better on several well-being (e.g., greater self-esteem, more exercise) and individual-difference (e.g., greater conscientiousness, less fearful attachment) measures.”  

It may be the benefits come from the fact that pets offer unconditional affection and companionship.  Also a pet requires seniors to stay engaged in the day-to-day process of caring for the animal as they need to feed, groom, walk and clean up after their pet.        

If you are thinking of getting a pet for an elderly family member, it is recommended that you consider the person’s physical health and personality.  AgingCare.com says you should also take into account the following: has the person owned a pet before; does the animal have a good temperament; and will owning a pet cause a financial hardship?    

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, which is why we are happy to welcome our resident’s furry friends.  Please contact us to learn more about our pet guidelines as well as our amenities, activities and wellness programs.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

Sources: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21728449, petsfortheelderly.org, agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

April 10, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia
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Senior’s Legal Issues May Require a Specialized Attorney

April 05, 2020 by Rena Phillips

There are some legal problems unique to older adults that many attorneys are not equipped to provide accurate advice about such as Medicaid, Social Security or disability claims, trusts or estate planning, or issues regarding long term care.  When an elderly person requires the services of an attorney to protect their financial interests or to solve legal issues, experts recommend hiring an elder law attorney who specializes in advocating for the elderly and their loved ones.

The FindLaw website explains, “Most elder law attorneys handle a wide range of legal matters affecting an older or disabled person, including issues related to health care, long term care planning, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and other important matters.”  However, remember that as with all attorneys, elder law attorneys also specialize in specific areas of the law so look for one that has the expertise you need.

Many families find it makes good sense to hire an elder attorney to protect and preserve their loved one’s assets when they sell their home to move into an assisted living or memory care community.  This is a case where you would want to find one that specializes in financial and estate planning.  The elder attorney also can assist with legal issues that arise with the actual care of the senior including helping to sort out supplemental and long-term health insurance problems. 

An elder attorney can draw up a durable power of attorney as well as draft a living will, living trust or other advance directives, or set up conservatorships and guardianships.  They can help answer questions regarding nursing home resident rights and other patient rights'.

To find an elder law attorney, experts recommend asking friends, family members or other business connections for referrals.  Findlaw.com says you can check online and read through websites or use their online attorney directory. 

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 our exceptional memory care. 

Source: elder.findlaw.com/what-is-elder-law/what-does-an-elder-law-attorney-do-.html

April 05, 2020 /Rena Phillips
senior care
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MorningStar of Happy Valley Offers Assisted Living at Its Finest!

March 29, 2020 by Rena Phillips

If you are looking for assisted living in the Portland, Oregon area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Happy Valley.  Starting from our spacious, private suites to our beautiful common areas, both inside and out, we have meticulously seen to it that every detail has been paid to ensure our assisted living residents the most carefree retirement possible. 

For those unfamiliar with the concept of assisted living, it is built on a European social model, and offers a new paradigm in wellness and engagement for those seniors who need a little support with personal daily care activities.  At MorningStar of Happy Valley, new residents and their family sit down with our Wellness Director to create a care plan designed around their special needs and safety.  The resident will have around-the-clock Care Managers as well the services of our full-time licensed nurses on call 24/7 and onsite 5–7 days/week.   

Among our many services, we have a CPR-trained staff member on every shift, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, care planning reviews, and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  All residents receive three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef that are both tasty and nutritional and served restaurant style in our dining room. In addition, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers scheduled transportation along with a whole host of enrichment programs to support and entertain residents. If you are wondering, we are also pet friendly.   

Along with our 61 assisted living suites, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 27 secure suites dedicated to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us for more information regarding unsurpassed assisted living and memory care.

March 29, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, senior living, dementia

MorningStar of Rio Rancho Offers Short-term Stays

March 28, 2020 by Rena Phillips

MorningStar of Rio Rancho understands that for many seniors making the decision to move to assisted living can be difficult.  While change for any one can be hard, for seniors contemplating assisted living, it can feel like they are losing their independence.  This is why MorningStar offers both respite stays and short-term stays that give you the opportunity to experience our community and see what you think.

A respite stay offers the perfect place to recover from surgery or to convalesce in quiet quarters while getting the personal attention you need.  At the same time, you will have the companionship and community that can be just as important in the healing process. A short-term stay gives you chance to see firsthand how carefree and easy your life could be.  

During your stay, you will be afforded all of the amenities offered to our regular residents including 24-hour care, medication management, three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, and a whole range of activities, entertainment and outings.  We also offer group transportation along with a fireside patio and porches that allow you to take advantage of our beautiful grounds. Additionally, we have an onsite chapel/theatre, fitness room and more. 

While under our roof you will have the opportunity to enjoy wonderful meals, meet new friends and join in our many intellectual, physical, social and spiritual activities offered to all residents. Our caregivers are a team of truly special individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are the type of people who go out of their way to see to it that our residents have all of their needs met, even their unexpressed ones.

If you are interested in a community that feels like home, please visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Rio Rancho NM. 

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.

March 28, 2020 /Rena Phillips
Alzheimers, assisted living community, senior living communities
MorningStar Assisted Living - Friends Gather Here.jpg

Learn More About MorningStar at Englefield Green

March 27, 2020 by Rena Phillips

MorningStar at Englefield Green offers the Boise area individualized, compassionate memory care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  We attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership.  We feel extremely blessed to have a team of individuals working for us who are guided by their hearts and feel privileged to serve seniors.  They are the kind of people that do the right thing even when no one is looking and willingly go the extra mile to help our residents. 

MorningStar’s care is guided through “Radiance,” our proprietary program, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light.  It forms the framework for how our service is delivered – with warmth, sincerity and depth!  Additionally our Radiance program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

Once a team member is hired, they are trained in Radiance. and it is reiterated and strengthened each day during our daily “Huddle.”   We feel Radiance is lived out in a variety of ways throughout our community, and helps us to create an atmosphere of love, compassion and care as well as service professionalism.

MorningStar of Englefield Green’s goal is to be one of the best Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise, and our focus is on addressing the unique needs of our tender residents to ensure their wellbeing while affirming their dignity and value.  Our community was designed from the ground up to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life.

Our community offers 50 secure suites, and includes studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans.  We are also equipped to provide care from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar and all of the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

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 one of the best Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise.

    

March 27, 2020 /Rena Phillips
assisted living
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