When Is It Time to Move a Parent to Memory Care?

Dementia is a complicated disease that requires specialized care from trained, experienced, and dedicated staff. Despite the best intentions of family members, sometimes they are simply not equipped to provide the extensive care needed. 

Memory care communities are designed to meet the needs of seniors with dementia and Alzheimers. But how do you know when it is time to transfer your loved one to memory care? These signs are strong signals that it is time to make the transition.

Safety Becomes a Concern

When seniors with dementia begin to experience symptoms daily, their safety can be in jeopardy. They may forget things like locking doors, turning off the stove, or taking medication. 

If you notice your loved one forgets these important things, it is time to consider moving to a senior living community that can ensure their safety. Senior communities have dedicated staff that looks after residents to ensure they are out of harm's way. 

Neglecting Personal Care

A telltale sign that your loved one with dementia requires more care is neglecting personal care. Unwashed clothes, body odor, or other personal hygiene issues can mean that your loved one forgets to care for themselves daily or has simply forgotten how to perform these tasks. 

In a memory care community, your loved one will receive the daily assistance needed to ensure their personal care needs are met.

Neglecting Finances

We all may forget to pay a bill here and there at some point. But if your loved one is regularly late on bills or is receiving collection notices, it can put their financial stability at risk. In addition to issues with creditors, neglecting finances can mean that they are more susceptible to financial scams and fraud. 

You Can No Longer Provide Adequate Care

It is common for family members to take on the role of caregiver for parents or loved ones with dementia. While this is a noble effort that can work in the short term, it is difficult for most people to provide adequate caregiving for the long term. 

If you find yourself exhausted, neglecting yourself, or dropping the ball on caregiving duties, it is time to transition your loved one to a senior living community that can cater to their needs.

Your Loved One Is Lonely or Isolated

Seniors with dementia are more likely to develop feelings of loneliness or isolation which can make their symptoms worse and lead to feelings of depression. Loneliness and depression can also translate to negative physical symptoms.

Transitioning a loved one to a senior community will ensure that they have daily social interactions and access to activities that cater to seniors with dementia.

MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green

MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green embodies the highest standards of senior living. Our mission statement is “to honor, to serve, to invest.” This sets us apart from other senior living communities. 

We’ve built a foundation on valuing seniors and investing in our staff. We offer unique and loving care in a home-like setting. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services.

5 Simple and Engaging Activities for Dementia Patients

Dementia patients and their families may go through tough times as they navigate the symptoms of the disease. However, that does not mean that seniors with dementia cannot live fulfilling lives. Activities are a good way to keep them engaged and stimulated while in senior living. 

Appropriate activities are a fun way to spend time with loved ones, stay active, and even help mitigate some Dementia symptoms. Here are five simple and engaging activities for dementia patients:

1. Crafts

Crafts are a simple activity that can cater to all dementia patients, no matter how advanced the disease is. Simple crafts like molding clay or paper mache do not require any new skill-building or require seniors to draw on their memory. 

Through crafts, seniors in memory care can benefit from the tactile stimulation and unleash the creative side of their brain. Crafts are also affordable and don’t require a lot of setup or takedown.

2. Create Collages

Collages are a fun way to produce something unique and keep seniors with dementia active and interested. Cutting out images from magazines, newspapers, or even old books and making them into something new is a stimulating activity that doesn’t take a lot of effort or commitment.

For seniors with advanced dementia, selecting the photos without cutting or gluing can give them a sense of independence and autonomy. Collage creation can be done independently or with the help of a caregiver or family member.

3. Looking Through Old Photos

Not all activities with dementia patients need to involve creating. Looking through old photos in photo albums, yearbooks, or even old magazines is an easy way to reminisce about old times while making new memories. Sometimes old photos can trigger a memory or lead to stories that are fun for everyone involved.

4. Explore the World Through Technology

Seniors with dementia often lose the ability to travel like they used to. But that doesn’t mean they can’t explore new places. Landmarks and unique facilities around the world offer live streaming options that allow anyone with an internet connection to explore. 

Zoos, nature preserves, aquariums, and even art museums offer live streaming as well as live tours. Watching this content can be a fun way to spend time with others in senior living communities. 

5. Puzzles

Puzzles are a common and recommended activity for seniors in memory care. Simple puzzles like matching shapes and colors are intuitive and don’t require seniors to draw on their memory. Completing puzzles can build a senior’s confidence and keep them motivated and engaged.

MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green

MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green represents the very best in assisted living and high-quality memory care. Our compassionate communities have a caring atmosphere with resort-style amenities and a team of dedicated staff. 

We provide seniors with Alzheimers and dementia a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community that includes access to activities of all types. Get in touch with us today for more information about the exceptional memory care, boise idaho at MorningStar.

Dining at MorningStar of Happy Valley

A move to senior living can mean a lot of changes for a person. Our job at MorningStar of Happy Valley is to make sure that experience is full of positive changes. One of the things we feel showcases our home is an outstanding food service, which is under the direction of our own Executive Chef.  

As an assisted living resident, you will be treated to a variety of seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible, or even from our own resident-gardens. You will also enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining in our beautifully designed, relaxing dining room. For those times you wish to have an intimate dinner with friends or family, go ahead and reserve our private dining room. 

Our Chef is specifically trained in culinary skills and menu creations that appeal to seniors and knows how to modify recipes to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies as well as changing needs. A variety of nutritional choices allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options.  We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.”  These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens. 

Along with five-star dining, other amenities include a general store, massage room, library, fitness room, and a full-service salon.  We also offer a 24-hour bistro, as well as a theatre/chapel, outdoor courtyards with barbecue and fire pit, strolling paths, and more. And when you need to see your doctor or run an errand, we offer scheduled transportation.  

While under our roof, residents have the opportunity to meet new friends and join a variety of wellness programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social connections.  You will also have a team of dedicated, compassionate caregivers with a felt calling to serve who will go out of their way to meet your needs, even your unexpressed ones.  Please visit our website to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the very best in assisted living and memory care.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Learn More About Shingles

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone the chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a wash cloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

MorningStar of Happy Valley is a true home where residents can comfortably and safely age in place. We have 61 suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website to learn more about our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, and care services.     

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.

Looking for Assisted Living in Rio Rancho, NM?

MorningStar of Rio Rancho wants to reassure families considering assisted living that if they put their loved ones into our home, we will see to it they receive the care they need.  Before the resident even moves in, our Wellness Director will meet with the family to thoroughly discuss the person’s medical history, current health condition, medications, and personal preferences.  In addition, we regularly review, evaluate, and update care plans to ensure changing needs are addressed.  

As a family member, some of your concerns may be focused on your parent or loved one’s medications especially if they have had problems taking them on time, all the time, or incorrectly.  If you want to know if we offer medication management, the answer is yes, and we also offer pharmacy services.  We consider medication management to be an important service to our residents as we know many seniors with chronic health conditions take several prescription medications daily, which can result in missed or improper dosages.  

Your initial meeting with our Wellness Director is also a good time to discuss concerns such as a parent who has been losing weight recently and who may not be eating properly.  Or you may worry they are not drinking enough fluids each day.  We have an answer to both problems as our 5-star meal service is designed to be both nutritional as well as to temp the appetite of our most discerning residents.  To help keep our residents hydrated, we make sure they have plenty of opportunities to drink throughout the day. 

Along with our compassionate care services and resort-style amenities, residents have a choice of well-designed floor plans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs.  Within our 51 assisted living suites, we offer floor plans that include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations that provide residents privacy, comfort, and security.  You will find our suites have high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds. All that is missing to make it feel like home are your own furnishings and personal items.  Also, you will not need to leave behind a beloved family member as we are pet friendly!   

For more information about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers, we encourage you to visit our website for contact information as well to inquire about pricing and availability.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho, NM 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. 

Those with Dementia Benefit from a Daily Routine and Meaningful Activities

The Alzheimer’s Association explains a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia don’t have to give up the activities they love. Rather they suggest the better option is to modify the activity to better fit their skill set and current ability. 

However, even in the early stages of the disease, many withdraw from the activities they used to enjoy but experts say it is important to help them stay engaged. A modification can be as simple as reducing the number of people the person socializes with at a time. Smaller groups are less intimidating and reduce confusion. Also, it helps to let the person’s other family members and friends know about the diagnosis.   

As the disease progresses, other changes will likely be in order. If you notice an activity seems to make them restless or irritable, either modify so it brings them happiness or stop it altogether. For instance, while a person’s skills may decline, someone who plays the piano may still enjoy playing the simple pieces they learned years ago.

Dementia care specialists say setting up a daily routine is important and should include the things they like to do on their own such as setting the table or folding laundry, and be done when the person seems to function the best. Remember to be flexible and include a range of creative, physical, social and spiritual activities that bring meaning and enjoyment into their life.   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers specialized care to individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Our secure and loving Reflections Neighborhood can provide the care your family member needs at the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages where the highest level of care is required.  

MorningStar’s compassionate caregivers use gentle, resident-directed methods to calm and awaken memories and to support each resident’s capabilities.  Common techniques include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy as well as a range of meaningful and purposeful activities that incorporate art, dance, music, exercise and life skills. Please see our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, OR.     

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

Not All Memory Problems are Caused by Alzheimer’s Disease

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. 

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. 

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve. 

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable.  

At MorningStar, our goal is to provide the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM, which includes specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Visit our website for more information about our loving home, our team and our company’s approach to care. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM. 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. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

Memory Care at MorningStar of Happy Valley

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the greater Portland, OR area unsurpassed assisted living and memory care.  Along with 61 private assisted living suites, our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help.  Our memory care area is in a separate wing specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to explore their expansive surroundings safely and easily.  Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. 

Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents.  Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

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.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar Senior Living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s 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. 

Making Your Assisted Living Suite Feel Like Home

We all know that life changes can be fraught with anxiety and fear and moving into assisted living is certainly a major change for many seniors.  However, experts say there are several things families can do to help ease the transition period.   

One of those things is to help your loved one make a comfortable home in their new suite.  Julia Bailey, a senior associate and interior design project manager with Denver-based OZ Architecture, explains that, "Moving into assisted living often can feel like a loss of independence and privacy for your loved one, but thoughtful interior design can go a long way toward improving happiness and well-being for the resident, as well as improving overall functionality of the new living space."  

Ms. Bailey cautions that you need to remember to let your loved one have a say in how their new home will be decorated including the personal mementos and photos they want to bring with them and which ones they want to display.  Triggering happy memories with sentimental items is a big step toward making their new place a real home.  Also, accent pillows and pictures are an easy way to add a lot of color and attractiveness to their place.  

Please keep in mind safety concerns when placing furniture and avoid using area rugs that can become trip hazards or overcrowding a room and not leaving enough space to easily navigate.  Install hand rails where needed and make sure there is easily accessible lighting in the bathrooms and hallways if the person is getting up at night.    

Helping your loved one stay organized can improve the home’s safety as well as the aesthetic.  Consider any mobility issues the person may have and make sure frequently used items are within easy reach on a shelf.  Chairs and sofas should be firm and stable.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are committed to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers and invite you to set up a tour to see our beautiful community.  We have 51 private suites for assisted living and another 26 secure suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  The stylish floor plans of our spacious suites are well-appointed and all that is missing are your own furnishings and personal items.  Also, you will not need to leave behind your furry friend – yes, we are pet friendly!   

MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/health-care/best-assisted-living/slideshows/decorating-tips-for-assisted-living

Age-Related Hearing Loss

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

At MorningStar of Happy Valley we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing comfort and security. Our beautiful home has 61 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 27 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Are You Overwhelmed with Caregiving Duties?

If you have become responsible for more and more of the caregiving duties for an elderly parent or another loved one, it may be time to consider a change.  Today’s senior living options include assisted living that provides daily help with personal care, and actually helps residents regain their sense of independence.  Also once your loved one is getting the proper care they need, it allows you to get back to just enjoying the time you spend together.  Moreover, assisted living communities like MorningStar of Rio Rancho provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  

Our first priority is to ensure your loved one gets the care they need.  This starts with a thorough evaluation of their medical and personal history, followed by a care plan approved by you and your parents.  MorningStar’s services also help our families by providing transportation to doctor appointments as well as offer scheduled physician visits and supportive services from third-party providers including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs.  While this is not a substitute for the time your loved one spends with family, you may find your parents are not always available to take your call as they are busy having fun with other residents and staff.  

Our services also include providing housekeeping to help ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we see to it your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need.  Moreover, meals are served restaurant-style in our charming dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.  We also offer assistance with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications.  We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Please contact us for more information regarding the area’s finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.  Our community offers 51 stylish suites for assisted living and 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We look forward to hearing from you.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.

Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, MorningStar of Happy Valley may be your answer. Located southeast of Portland, OR in a residential neighborhood, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping and other services.  Our home is distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other senior living communities simply cannot match.

Founded in 2003, MorningStar Senior Living considers it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our mission: to honor God in our business practices and relationships; to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and to invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. To achieve our mission, we start by hiring individuals with big hearts and virtues such as kindness, character and compassion. Every person on our staff, regardless of position, receives training in “Radiance,” our brand standard of Service Excellence, which guides the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. While MorningStar was founded on Judeo-Christian traditions, we honor all faith systems and worldviews at our homes among our residents as well as team members. 

For assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 stylish, private suites in a variety of configurations.  From spacious studios to one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans, our suites are meticulously designed so all you need is to bring your furnishings and personal items.  For memory care residents, our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites that are devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  

For more information, please contact us or visit our website.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our community as well as our company’s history, vision, and mission.
MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the very best in assisted living and memory care.Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Help Prevent Serious Health Hazards with Medication Management

Experts say medication management is an important preventive measure to avoid potential serious health hazards for seniors. As many older adults take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to treat different symptoms and health conditions, they are at a greater risk for medication mix-ups. Researchers estimate that 25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.  

Polypharmacy is the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse, or harmful, drug events. While these episodes are usually preventable, doctors acknowledge it can be confusing keeping track of daily dosages and special instructions such as to take with or without food or the time of day, etc.

If an elderly parent or grandparent is taking several medications, healthcare providers say it is a good idea to inquire about their medication management. One sign they may not be organized is if they have medications stored in different locations throughout the house, and old, outdated prescriptions are mixed in with current ones. You can start by gathering all medications in one place, remember it is best to store them in a cool, dry location, and set aside any outdated medications for proper disposal. Write down the names of the drugs, dosages, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Also, include herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. Bring the list to the next visit to their primary care physician and ask why mom or dad is taking it, how long they will be on it, and do any medications present a dangerous interaction with another drug they are on. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley is a beautiful senior living community offering assisted living and memory care.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure residents’ comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers.  Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s 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. 

Source: cdc.gov/medicationsafety/adult_adversedrugevents.html

After a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it is extremely difficult not only for the individual but the entire family. As it generally comes after the person as well as their family and friends have noticed a marked change in the individual, it is tough to hear but not always a huge surprise. Now the question becomes “what next?”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers families guidance with a list of helpful informative and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Check if they have local chapters where you can get in-person support, meet others in your same situation, and get involved in fundraising activities. You can additionally reach out to local community centers and hospitals to find out if they have Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

NIA reminds families to keep up with regular medical checkups as they are important for a person with Alzheimer’s and should include their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Also ask your medical team if there is a memory disorder clinic nearby. 

Another suggestion is to plan ahead both financially and for long-term care while the person can still have some valuable input. Finally, experts say to make sure you get the proper help to ensure the person’s wellbeing and safety. 

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley, we know something about the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provides a safe, loving home for seniors suffering from dementia.  If you are looking for trusted seniors living in Happy Valley, OR, please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s 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. 

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis

Memory Care at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our goal is to be the best senior housing Rio Rancho, NM has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of dementia brings with it and wish to share the burden. 

MorningStar's comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed from the ground up to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities connect with and nurture the individual, whatever the level of memory loss may be. 

Another thing that makes MorningStar of Rio Rancho a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more our beautiful home and our company’s philosophy to caring for seniors. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique 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 create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.

You May Be Surprised How Full Your Life Becomes at MorningStar

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into a senior community, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives.   

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems and is well-designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents.  Assisted living also includes housekeeping and laundry services, trash removal and full access to all onsite amenities.

Our holistic approach to senior living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassion.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.

In addition, many elderly adults who live alone find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living in our beautiful community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover, if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that with scheduled transportation.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley provides 27 memory care suites, respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) that are ideal to see if we are a good fit.  We are located on 2-acres within a residential setting, bordered to the east by the popular food-cart park, Happy Valley Station and convenient to a variety of stores, restaurants, and other services.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Are You Looking for Senior Living in Rio Rancho, NM?

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, you know there are a number of options.  This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?   

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care.  If you are a senior who needs a little help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living your life to the fullest.  In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more.  They also provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of programming, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care.  The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we offer all of that and more.  We define health and well-being holistically and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Our beautiful community has 51 private assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 26 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.

Each Year, One Out of Five Seniors has a Fall That Results in an Injury

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one out of every five Americans aged 65 years and older has a fall that results in an injury such as broken bones or a head injury.  However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving.  Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”

They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall.  Their first advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention.  Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects include dizziness or sleepiness that could contribute to falls.  

While falls are common in seniors 65 years of age and older, individuals with dementia are at an even greater risk.  Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and with staying focused on the task at hand.  Other issues that may increase the risk of falls include poor eyesight and chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, and arthritis or numbness in the feet.  If you often feel dizzy or lightheaded upon standing or suddenly sitting up, ask your doctor if you might have postural hypotension, and find out how you can alleviate the symptoms.    

Further tips to reduce your risk include having your eyes checked annually and updating your glasses when needed.  In addition, talk to your doctor about the best footwear for inside the house as well as outside.  Check your home for trip hazards (the CDC has a list of tips) and install grab bars in the bathroom.  Finally, ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen your leg muscles as well as balance-training exercises to improve balance.   

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our community was built to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety.  Contact us or visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other seniors living in Happy Valley, OR.

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Sources:  cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/

agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm

alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/

Are You at Increased Risk of Heart Disease?

The CDC says February is American Heart Month, making it the time to focus on cardiovascular disease. Focusing on heart disease is important as it is the leading cause of death in the US for both men and women; and the awareness campaign helps people to realize it is largely preventable. Experts stress that every adult should be aware of their risk and know the healthy choices to make to reduce their chance of heart disease including coronary heart disease, which is the primary cause of heart attacks. 

The NIH explains your risk of heart disease is higher if you:

• Have high blood pressure

• Have high blood cholesterol

• Are overweight or obese

• Have prediabetes or diabetes

• Smoke

• Do not get regular physical activity

• Have a family history of early heart disease (your father or brother was diagnosed before age 55, or your mother or sister was diagnosed before age 65)

• Have a history of preeclampsia (a sudden rise in blood pressure and too much protein in the urine during pregnancy)

• Have unhealthy eating behaviors

• Are older (age 55 or older for women or age 45 or older for men)

Experts say for each risk you have, the higher your overall risk is for heart disease. While some risks cannot be helped such as your gender, age and family history, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk. Also the NIH says it can be helpful to join #OurHearts in Action, a group designed to encourage and motivate heart-healthy behaviors together.

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we offer 61 private assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with memory impairment. Our mission is to enhance quality of life for residents and we do this through a full component of wellness programs and activities, hospitality and care services, and luxury amenities. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar provides the very best assisted living in Happy valley, Oregon 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Could Mom or Dad Benefit from Assisted Living?

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that senior living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you take a look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, take a look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.