Steps We can Take to Improve Brain Health

There are many things we can do to improve our overall health and prevent or mitigate our chances of getting certain diseases and scientists say the same is true with our brain health. Doctors report it goes beyond Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions and all of our brains “naturally age with us, leading to effects such as patchy memory and reduced brain mass.”

Over the last several decades, research has discovered a strong connection between heart health and brain health and links damage to the heart and vascular system to damage to the brain. This has led to the American Heart Association to put together a list of seven key factors to look out for when it comes to cardiovascular health. These include blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, level of exercise, diet, body weight and smoking status.

Most of these factors can be addressed by changes in our habits and lifestyle and the earlier a person does it the better the outcome is as we age. Dr. Ronald M. Lazar, Ph.D., the Evelyn F. McKnight Endowed Chair for Learning and Memory in Aging and director of the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, explains, “Many people think of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and other risk factors as affecting only heart health, yet these very same risk factors affect our brain health.” Researchers say other critical factors affecting cognitive ability over time include depression, social isolation, alcohol use, sleep disorders, insufficient education, and hearing loss.

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community, our goal is to help seniors live life to the fullest. We believe the ability to contribute and grow is ageless and we know how to provide residents with a quality of life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. From modern private suites to warm and welcoming common area including scenic outdoor courtyards, residents are sure to feel right at home. Please visit our website for contact information and directions to our community.  

Source: assistedliving.com/helping-elderly-aging-parents-adjust-senior-living-01112013/

Assisted Living can Enhance Seniors’ Quality of Life

A Place for Mom’s website, a free service that helps families in their senior care search, reports the various services offered at assisted living communities can make it a healthier, safer living option for many seniors. As services typically involve 24/7 care, nutritional meals and wellness programs, it means residents receive the kind of care required to enhance their quality of life.  

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley provide the social connections necessary to seniors’ wellbeing as well as intellectual stimulation. The individual and their family get peace of mind knowing help is available when it is needed. Likewise recent research shows assisted living communities may help seniors avoid falls as most are equipped with safety features such as handicap-accessible bathrooms and wheelchair accessible doorways. MorningStar’s emergency call systems in each suite mean immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers seniors assistance with another all-too common problem of medication mismanagement. The JAMA Internal Medicine journal recently published a study showing “80% of older adults regularly take at least two prescription medications, and 36% regularly take at least five prescription drugs.” The Department of Health and Human Services reports up to 55 percent of older adults are “non-complaint” in their medications including skipping doses or failing to take medication as prescribed. Either one can result in hospitalizations or deaths. Our medication management service helps to avoid these problems and includes dispensing as well as ordering prescription drugs.

MorningStar’s comprehensive care starts with residents having an individualized plan created to address their specialized needs. It is frequently reviewed and updated as required. Our day-to-day care is intended to help residents maintain a healthier lifestyle with nutritional meals, exercise classes, and life enrichment programs designed for their needs. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar of Happy Valley’s trusted assisted living and memory care.  

Source:  

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

aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/medication-management

When Professionals Debate over Medical Care, We Typically Win

Doctors say the public should understand while information on best practices in medical care may change over time and/or in some cases the medical community is not speaking with one voice; it is not necessarily a bad thing. Rather it is often a result of new research and scientific facts surfacing changing the debate and the messaging. 

Nowhere have we seen more changes evolve in medical recommendations and advice than over the last year in regard to COVID-19. Experts explain this is an excellent example of new information coming in over a period of time that updated our knowledge of an unknown virus, which had rapidly spread across the globe before we had learned much about it. In a recent article in the U.S. News & World Report, Dr. Neel Anand, M.D., says, “It isn't new or unique to COVID-19. To be honest, debate among scientists and medical experts is precisely how the targeted and most effective therapies and treatments develop.”

Medical progress evolves much like other scientific progress, and involves formulating a hypothesis and then setting out to prove or disprove it. Healthy debate helps to move us forward and typically the end result is good for our own medical care. However Dr. Anand cautions if scientific debate is going to be useful in advancing medicine, it requires real experts. For example, he says as a doctor specializing in spinal surgery, he would not consider it fruitful to debate the specifics of spinal surgery from someone who isn’t a qualified physician or researcher in the field.  

This is why doctors and scientists have often disagreed or changed guidelines on COVID-19 as well as on other medical conditions and illnesses. Doctors say it is an example of how the scientific process works, which allows them to make better decisions regarding care.

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we offer 61 private assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us with any questions you may have as we are happy to talk to you about your or a loved one’s care.   

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/debate-in-medicine-is-good-for-everyone 

Would Assisted Living Improve the Quality of Life for an Elderly Loved One?

Sometimes a senior has a fall or another medical emergency that precipitates the need for a change in their living circumstances such as a move into an assisted living community.  Other times, the situation is not so clear-cut and is more a case of a senior slowly losing the ability to attend to their daily care needs.  We know it is upsetting for families to see their loved one decline, which is why experts offer advice to help determine if an assisted living setting would be an improvement in their lifestyle.  

One way to decide if assisted living is right for your parent or another loved one is to take an inventory of the things they are having trouble doing for themselves and if assistance would improve their quality of life.  For instance, are they having a hard time preparing and cooking meals or need help bathing, toileting, and dressing?  Have they stopped driving and spend a lot of time alone?  Is your normally tidy parent now letting the household tasks go and/or mail is stacking up unopened and bills not getting paid?

Other factors that indicate the need for more help includes recent falls or burns from using water that is too hot or from cooking.  Warning signs also include a history of medication mismanagement or worsening chronic health problems, which could all benefit from the care received in an assisted living community.        

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we offer 63 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a staff who feel called to serve seniors.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities Fountain Hills, AZ offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About MorningStar of Rio Rancho

MorningStar’s goal is to provide the best senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. Our Rio Rancho community has 51 bright suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.   

MorningStar Senior Living has over 30 communities currently open or under construction all across the country, including three in New Mexico.  MorningStar of Rio Rancho, with a loving care team and outstanding architecture and design, provides seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.

MorningStar began in 2003 when founder, Ken Jaeger had a dream to start a senior housing company that was defined by the human touch. He says, “I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  From this came our guiding principles and three mission statements our company is based on:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics

• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence

• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents

To eloquently illustrate our mission, all of our communities have a specially commissioned piece of art hanging in them.  The “Tree of Life embodies and celebrates our Mission and our Name.  Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar Senior Living and our beautiful community.  

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.   

Stretching Exercises for Seniors

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin.  For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did.  And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.     

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin.  In fact studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints.  Another good thing about stretching is there are exercises that are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair.  Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere.  The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  

Some common forms of exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking and dumbbell strength training.  At the MorningStar of Happy Valley, our beautiful assisted living and memory care community offers a whole host of resort-style amenities and care services as well as wellness programs and activities daily that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Located in the southeast suburb of Portland, OR, we proudly offer our residents a true “home.”   Please see our website to learn more.

*This blog is for information purposes only. Before beginning any 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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley.  

Source: 

silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/

Heart Disease in Women

Doctors have known for a while now that men and women experience heart disease differently.  For one thing, before menopause, estrogen plays a role in protecting women from heart disease and thus they do not typically have a heart attack before the age of 72.  For men, the average age is 64.  The bad news is that women do catch up “making heart disease the leading cause of death for both sexes overall during non-pandemic times.”  

Another cause of concern is that while younger women (under the age of 65), have fewer heart attacks, they are much more serious than those of the men under 65.  Researchers at the Mayo Clinic went looking for answers by studying 7 million hospitalized heart attack patients. Their study, published in January’s Mayo Clinic Proceedings, showed that “women who are hospitalized with a heart attack are less likely than men to receive life-saving treatments, such as angioplasty, in which clogged arteries are opened; and mechanical circulatory support, in which devices are used to improve blood flow.

Another significant link they discovered was that while estrogen does provides some heart protection, women who suffer from moderate to severe symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances have a greater risk of a heart attack or stroke.  One reason may be that severe hot flashes “are associated with artery stiffness, inflammation and vascular problems, which are linked to heart disease.”  Lack of sleep in itself can cause problems as well as interfere with a person’s motivation to exercise.  

Brest cancer also puts women at risk for cardiac disease.  The January’s Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network reported that, “survivors were at greater risk of life-threatening blood clots called deep vein thrombosis, arrhythmia, heart failure, heart valve disease and sudden cardiac arrest compared to women who had not had cancer.”   Researchers also said while the risk is far greater in the first year after a breast cancer diagnosis; the risk remained elevated for five years. 

Researchers also found that women are three times more likely than men to suffer from hearts attacks known as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCAs).  This in itself is a problem as the type of equipment used to test for MINOCAs is not always used on women and many times the patient is told she did not have a heart attack.  It is so common that doctors say if you experienced symptoms of a heart attack but are told you did not have one, ask if you are a candidate for advanced imaging testing.  

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 for more information about one of the area’s most trusted assisted living and memory care communities. 

Source:  aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/women-heart-disease.html

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho, NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 51 assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features.  Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, lots of windows, ceiling lights, and mini-blinds. 

In assisted living, we offer various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte.  However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure your safety as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.   

If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef.  All of our delicious meals are served in our beautiful dining room, restaurant-style, and created largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds.  During the coronavirus outbreak, however, changes have been made in dining protocols to protect both residents and team members. We are happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations began at MorningStar communities last month.

We believe our care to be different from that of other senior living communities because of the type of individuals who make up our team.  When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are more important than education or experience.  Moreover, many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness! 

Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.    

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.   

Need a “Little Help” to Maintain Your Independence?

Too often seniors mistakenly believe that moving into assisted living means an end to their independence and their life as they knew it.  We want to reassure you that at today’s assisted living communities like MorningStar of Happy Valley; nothing could be further from the truth.  

Aging.com explains that while changes in a person’s ability to care for themselves can be caused by underlying medical conditions, studies show the importance of seniors receiving the assistance they need with the ADLs (activities of daily living). “Functional status and the ability to care for oneself have a significant impact on a senior's quality of life.  Unmet needs for help with activities of daily living can lead to malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and falls.”  

Another benefit of getting the help you need when you need it, is it actually gives the person a renewed sense of independence and lets them feel like they are once again in control of their life.  Independence promotes a sense of achievement as well as a sense of self-worth and purpose.  It encourages achievement, and reminds seniors that they still have a lot to contribute to their families, their communities and the world as a whole.  

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community, one important part of our mission statement includes “valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  Thus our entire community is focused on physical, intellectual, spiritual and social activities that present creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive each day.  Residents are also encouraged to tap into their own unique talents and experiences by leading special interest clubs. 

Our beautiful home has 61 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations to meet a variety of needs from spacious studios to one- and two-bedroom floorplans as large as 928 sq. ft.  In addition residents have peace of mind knowing that help is readily available when they need it. We also have 27 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please see our website to learn more.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living in Happy Valley.   

Source: 

agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm#:~:text=are%20still%20met.-,Why%20Are%20ADLs%20Important%3F,a%20senior's%20quality%20of%20life.&text=Unmet%20needs%20for%20help%20with,(UTIs)%2C%20and%20falls.

A Gift Basket to Brighten Your Favorite Senior’s Day

If you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community and they are still isolating themselves from the coronavirus, you probably would love to do something to brighten their day but just not sure how.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Are they a chocolate lover or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   A collection of classic movies is also something many seniors would enjoy.  

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large-print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

If you are looking for outstanding senior housing, Rio Rancho, NM’s MorningStar community may be the place for you.  Our beautiful community has 51 stylish assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, 26 secure suites are devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.           

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “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 finest senior housing Rio Rancho, NM has to offer.    

Treatment of Dementia Risk Factors Could be the Cause of Declining Cases

Researchers are studying promising news that indicates a decline in the number of new cases of dementia.  The Aug. 4, 2020, issue of Neurology published a report from the Alzheimer's Research Consortium, which looked at data from people over the age of 65 in both Europe and North America.  Their findings show the percentage of people diagnosed with dementia has dropped 13% every 10 years over the past 30 years.

This does not mean that dementia is not a widespread problem.  As life expectancy has improved along with the number of people on the planet, so has the number of adults with dementia increased.  However, what researchers are pleased to see after looking at seven different studies is that new cases are actually lower than what we had been expecting based on the rate of the increases of several decades ago.  Scientists believe that the decline may be due to “treatment for dementia risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation.”

If you are looking for care for a family member with Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Fountain Hills.  Along with assisted living, we provide compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment.  Our 28 secure, memory care suites are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  

MorningStar’s unique approach to memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  Please visit our website to learn more about unsurpassed senior living in Fountain Hills, AZ.    

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 contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Fountain Hills, AZ.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/dementia-declining-in-the-united-states

Seniors with Dementia Should be Encouraged to Stay Engaged

It is important for family members and caregivers to remember that while a person with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease may be declining cognitively, they still have some abilities. Encouraging them to stay involved in meaningful activities is a good way to give them a sense of self-worth and purpose.  In fact a published report from the National Institute of Health states, “engaging older persons with dementia in appropriate activities has been shown to yield beneficial effects such as increasing positive emotions, improving activities of daily living (ADL) and improving the quality of life.” It goes on to say it is important for those with dementia to stay as active and engaged as possible and that “it may even help to maintain quality of life in the more advanced stages of the disease.”  

As to what kinds of activities are the most effective, studies suggest trying to stimulate all five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell; and the creative arts are a good place to start.  Singing is not only enjoyable but several studies have shown it to be one of the last abilities many of those with Alzheimer’s lose.  People can often remember the words to a song long after many other memories are gone.  Listening to music and dancing are other activities beneficial to those with dementia.  Dancing has even been shown to help stimulate social interaction, enhance mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-awareness and self-expression.  Walking and getting outside can also lift spirits, but as gait can be adversely affected by Alzheimer’s, evaluate the person’s ability to walk safely.   

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community, our holistic memory care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Each day is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents.  

Ours is a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love made possible by a loving team that understands how to provide residents with a quality of life other assisted living and memory care communities simply cannot match.  Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.  

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 unsurpassed assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley.   

Source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684326/#:~:text=Engaging%20older%20persons%20with%20dementia,nursing%20staff%20members%20(10)%20and

Learn More About MorningStar of Rio Rancho

MorningStar’s goal is to provide the best senior living in Rio Rancho, NM; and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  To accomplish this lofty goal, our approach takes into account every aspect of senior living from the design of our gorgeous community to a broad range of care services, amenities, and wellness programs.  In fact, Ken Jaeger, MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder, had specific ideas on how to foster the ultimate environment for the wellbeing of seniors and it is the guiding spirit in which our community operates on.

Add to that, our dedicated team members who are the heartbeat of our community and the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  They understand it is a privilege to serve and many come to know and treat our residents as they do their own moms and dads.  As a true home, we consider our residents, their families and team members to be part of the MorningStar of Rio Rancho family. 

Our community offers 51 private assisted living suites and 26 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.   To ensure our suites fit the needs of all our residents, we offer an array of floor plans that include spacious studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. Each suite has ceiling lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds.  And yes, MorningStar of Rio Rancho welcomes your pet.  

Meals at MorningStar of Rio Rancho are prepared largely from scratch by our Executive Chef and made from the freshest homegrown or locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.  Recognizing that nutrient-rich foods can help stimulate the appetite as well as support brain health, MorningStar meals are prepared using ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. 

While we have had to make many changes to our community due to the coronavirus pandemic, MorningStar is carefully following suit with each state’s phasing and pacing where our communities are located. We are still accepting new residents, confident in our protective protocols.  For more information, please visit our website and contact the MorningStar of Rio Rancho team through our convenient online form.    

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.

Is It Safe for Seniors to Get their Healthcare Checkups?

As more and more people are receiving their COVID-19 vaccines, we all are optimistic about life getting back to normal sometime soon.  Nonetheless doctors want to remind seniors and anyone with chronic health problems that keeping up with medical checkups as well as some preventative screenings is critical to their continued good health.  While much of routine healthcare can be handled by telemedicine, many physicians are deciding on a patient-to-patient basis whether to see the patient in person.   

The postponement of many cancer screenings and other preventative tests over the last year for diseases, which if caught early, give patients the best chance of recovery, is a worry to the medical community.  The Epic Health Research Network notes just how big of a problem it was in a July 2020 reports that showed from March to June of last year, 63% of breast exams, 64% of colon exams, and 67% of cervical exams were not done based on the number of screenings that would normally be expected in an average year.  

Other important healthcare for adults 65 years and older is eye exams.  Ophthalmologists advise seniors to have a full examination at least every year or two to check for diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and other eye conditions.  They also say if you notice any changes with your eyes, to call your doctor.  Additionally the American Dental Association declared in November that they "firmly believe" dental care can continue to be delivered safely.  They state there has been “no documented transmission of COVID-19 in a clinical dental setting.”  Hopefully getting vaccinated should make it safer for seniors to resume important medical care but always consult with your healthcare provider.  Doctors also warn that for now, everyone should still wear a mask.   

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley, all new residents will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.  Our luxury, three-story community offers 61 private assisted living suites and 27 secure memory care devoted to those with Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diseases.   Please visit our website for pricing, availability and for answers to your questions.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living in Happy Valley, OR.  

Source: 

today.com/health/should-i-go-doctor-coronavirus-covid-19-impact-routine-preventive-t180851

How to Answer an Alzheimer’s Patient Who Wants to “Go Home”

As family members of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s, there are many challenges you will face while navigating this difficult journey. One of those defining moments is the decision to place the individual in a home that specializes in caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

While a family may instinctively understand that Alzheimer’s care homes make the best sense for their loved one’s safety and wellbeing, caregivers and families often hear a common refrain of “I want to go home.” In fact due to the confusion that goes on in their brains, some sufferers even frequently complain that they want to go home even when they are already at home.

Dementia care specialists say that a repeated cry to “go home” generally is the person’s way of expressing feelings of anxiety and stress, and the best thing you can do is to respond to the emotions behind their words. To help soothe, approach the person in a calm and relaxing manner and do the things you know work to comfort them such as giving a hug or a gentle stoking, and if they use one, give them their therapy doll or animal.

Experts say it is better to not try to explain that they cannot go home or that they are already home; rather concentrate on making them feel secure and safe. Another technique dementia caregivers frequently use is to “validate, redirect, and distract. This can include saying things like we will go after lunch, and then gently redirecting and distracting them with something like walking them out to the porch and pointing out flowers in the garden.

At the MorningStar at Englefield Green memory care community, we specialize in providing compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our 50 suites include studio and one-and two bedrooms floor plans along with all the amenities and services required for the finest care. We want you to know we are here to help if your loved one is suffering from memory loss. Please visit our website to learn more about our holistic care and our loving staff.

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

Source: dailycaring.com/when-someone-with-alzheimers-says-i-want-to-go-home-3-ways-to-respond/

MorningStar's Team Feels Privileged to Serve Seniors

To provide the utmost comfort, wellness and community to residents, MorningStar not only provides resort-style amenities, life enrichment programs, and a full range of care services but also has a staff that feels it is a privilege to serve seniors.  This has helped us to distinguish ourselves from other senior living communities Fountain Hills, AZ offers and to create a true home for our residents.  

MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 with the intention of providing senior living defined by the human touch. As Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger explains, “I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  MorningStar of Fountain Hills is one of four MorningStar communities in the Greater Phoenix area, and one of more than 30 open or under construction across the country.

Each MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ employee is hired for their character and kindness and is the type of person who will routinely go the extra mile to meet our residents' expressed needs as well as unexpressed ones; and understands that senior living at its best is love in action.  From our care managers to management, concierges, food servers, nurses and others, our team makes a point to get to know our residents and love hearing their fascinating life stories.  

When a team member is hired, regardless of position, they receive training in Radiance, our service excellence initiative that is much more than a customer service program but rather an attitude of the heart.  Radiance guides the way we dispense our service - with sincerity, depth of purpose, and warmth.  

Our beautiful community offers lots of choices for assisted living suites with 80 spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites).  We also provide 30 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are set in a warm, loving environment with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Assisted Living Offers Many Intrinsic Benefits for Seniors

One of the big problems that COVID-19 has caused for seniors is social isolation.  By trying to protect themselves against the dangers of the virus, many have stayed away from loved ones and friends, resulting in loneliness, and even in some cases, depression.  According to a recent report from the AARP Foundation and the United Health Foundation, the impact of COVID is more pronounced on older adults as more than half of those 50 years and older say they have felt socially isolated during the pandemic.  

At assisted living communities like MorningStar of Happy Valley, our remarkable residents and staff have shown great strength and resiliency in dealing with COVID over the last year.  Much of this is due to the fact that we know we are all in this together!  Through many layers of defenses and tireless efforts, we have been very fortunate in keeping COVID from our door, and like to say the only thing “positive” is our attitude.  In fact family members have written to let us know they are so grateful for the care we have provided their loved ones.  One family says that, “MorningStar has been a Godsend.  The people who work here are ‘earth angels.’  They have nothing but patience and compassion.  I didn’t think they could be so incredible 100% of the time, but that truly is the case.”    

Now our MorningStar communities have started a new campaign we call “#Back2hugs” as both our staff and residents are getting vaccinated against the coronavirus.   In addition we want new residents to know that they will have priority access to the COVID-19 vaccine.  

The MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community is proud to be a true home to residents.  With 61 private suites for assisted living, we offer spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans with some as large as 865 sq. ft.  For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, we have 27 secure suites devoted to individualized, specialized care.  MorningStar of Happy Valley has now been open for over a year, and while it has been much different than we had expected, we feel blessed beyond words to be a Family for Life.  

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 for more information about one of the area’s best assisted living and memory care communities. 

Source: 

aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2020/isolation-survey-coronavirus/

Studies Show a Decline in New Dementia Cases

Researchers are studying promising news that indicates a decline in the number of new cases of dementia.  The Aug. 4, 2020, issue of Neurology published a report from the Alzheimer's Research Consortium, which looked at data from people over the age of 65 in both Europe and North America.  Their findings show the percentage of people diagnosed with dementia has dropped 13% every 10 years over the past 30 years.

This does not mean that dementia is not a widespread problem.  As life expectancy has improved along with the number of people on the planet, so has the number of adults with dementia increased.  However, what researchers are pleased to see after looking at seven different studies is that new cases are actually lower than what we had been expecting based on the rate of the increases of several decades ago.  Scientists believe that the decline may be due to “treatment for dementia risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation.”

If you are looking for care for a family member with Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  Along with assisted living, we provide compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment.  Our 26 secure, memory care suites are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  

MorningStar’s unique approach to memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life.  Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  Please visit our website to learn more about unsurpassed senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.    

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.   

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/dementia-declining-in-the-united-states

Are You Caring for a Loved One with Dementia?

Statistics from the Alzheimer's Association indicate that one in ten people 65 years and older in the U.S. have Alzheimer's disease, and as baby boomers age, the total number of cases is expected to grow.  Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association cites a statistic showing that more than 16 million Americans are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.  If you are currently in that position, remember you are not alone and there are many resources designed to help.  

It is a fact that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a big job and it can take a toll on the health and wellbeing of a family caretaker, which is why it is imperative to recognize when the task becomes too difficult.  This is the time to make meaningful lifestyle changes for both you and the person with dementia, and one option is to look into a senior care community that offers specialized memory care.  

At A Place for Mom website, they discuss some of the reasons why memory care should be considered for both the safety of the person suffering with the disease as well as for the benefit of caretakers.  The habit of “wandering” is one of those circumstances and can be a frequent problem of dementia, posing a safety risk including an increase in falls and injuries. Another common trait of Alzheimer’s is a condition known as “Sundowner syndrome,” which causes a person to become agitated and to exhibit aggressive behavior later in the day that can be very disruptive.   

Also, memory care communities like the Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Fountain Hills are specifically designed to safely and securely care for a person with dementia unlike most private homes.   In addition, memory care offers 24/7 care providers that are available to deal with situations even in the dead of night.  Furthermore, as the disease progresses, care needs become even more demanding and can be overwhelming for a family caregiver.  Please visit our website for more information.   

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

Sources:  alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures

aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/signs-its-time-for-assisted-living

Fall Prevention Strategies

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls.  As we age, medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall.  Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.   

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving.  The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving.  To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.    

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor.  Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives.  It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else.  Also talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.   

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you.  Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.  

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention.  Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed.  Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home.  Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance.  Install grab bars and railings where needed.           

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need.  Moreover, our cherished residents and their families know they can trust the compassionate, professional MorningStar team to deliver the finest senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers.  

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “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 finest senior housing Rio Rancho, NM has to offer.     

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358