We are Honored to Serve Seniors

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community, our team recognizes the highest expression of living is sharing our gifts and talents, time and energy with others. We truly understand serving seniors is a privilege, but nonetheless are pleased to hear residents and their families tell us how much they appreciate the job we are doing. 

One such correspondence we received from a family member moved us with the following: “MorningStar is a wonderful facility with a great, caring staff and top notch amenities.” They went on to say the family was very happy with the transitioning process of their loved one to our community (something we take a great effort with); and were happy with the top notch service they have received since her arrival. The note ended with, “We could not ask for more from the team at MorningStar and look forward to the years to come working with them.”

Another appreciative family member writes, “From the moment I walked into Morningstar for our tour, I felt at home. The residents were enjoying themselves and everyone was friendly.” Most importantly they added, “A week and a half later my mom moved in and is very happy there! 

It is stories like these that humble as well as motivate our dedicated team members. However we additionally welcome comments letting us know what we could do better so we can remedy the situation not only for their family but for future residents and their families. 

Please visit MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s website for contact information regarding the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. Our community offers 51 assisted living suites and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has another 26 suites devoted to the personalized care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. To get a chance to see us up close and personal, we encourage you to schedule a tour. You will find a link to our home to get you started. Also be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Are You a Procrastinator?

The Medical News Today (MTN) recently published an article exploring the various reasons we procrastinate. They say we all do it, such as putting off making a doctor appointment or paying a bill but for some people it can be a problem. The article looks at the downside of the habit as well as to see if there is an upside. It explains the changes in our brains, in our minds and what we can do to change the habit. 

Procrastinating occasionally is normal and typically doesn’t cause much disruption in our lives. However the problem becomes detrimental when it is habitual. Studies show approximately 20% of adults in the United States are chronic procrastinators, and also found high levels of procrastination in the workplace can have negative effects on employment duration and income. Habitual procrastinators also report higher levels of stress, anxiety and even sleeping problems. 

Sharon Greene, an LCSW specializing in treating anxiety and depression at Providence Saint John’s Child & Family Development Center in Santa Monica, CA, explains procrastination results from a struggle between a person’s limbic system and prefrontal cortex of the brain. She says the limbic system is an older part of the brain that is automatic and seeks out pleasure and/ or avoids things that cause distress, while the prefrontal cortex helps with planning, decision-making, and long-term goals. Other studies have found “people who often procrastinate have a larger amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for emotions, particularly negative ones.”

Certain conditions such as anxiety disorders, ADHD and depression can make it harder for people to determine the course they should take, resulting in habitual procrastination. Others with addictive tendencies may always wait until the last minute to finish a project or task seeking a “saving the day,” high. Experts say treating the symptoms of these various conditions, may help lessen the tendency toward procrastination. 

Experts say procrastination can be a good thing like when we put off a task to do something we enjoy. If it is a beautiful day, it may be more beneficial to get out and play a round of golf or picnic in the park with your loved ones, than sitting home finishing something that can be done tomorrow. 

If you are searching for senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM, we invite you to take a look at the MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community. Conveniently located in the northern suburb of Albuquerque, we offer seniors a stylish, comfortable community in which to safely age in place. Visit our website for contact information and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.  

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-do-we-procrastinate-experts-explain-the-science?utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=MNT%20Daily%20News&utm_content=2022-10-22&apid=32549197&rvid=e3b0c44298fc1c149afbf4c8996fb92427ae41e4649b934ca495991b7852b855#What-happens-in-the-brain?

Making the Most of a Visit to a Loved One in an Assisted Living Community

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living community by letting them know they are very special to us.  To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit.  

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit.  Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game.  You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or to start a new one.  If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together.  If they love listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together.  If they love sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help them get them ready to mail.   If they love to be pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.   

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink.  Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home.   However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big.  Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community.  Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.   

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents, but we know they always look forward to seeing their family.  Our community has beautiful and inviting common areas to enjoy with visiting family and friends.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Choosing Healthy Snacks

While most of us love to snack, nutritionists say making poor choices can impact our overall diet and negate the effort we make with healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Lauri Wright, chair of the Department of Nutrition & Dietetics at the University of North Florida, explains snacks should not only satisfy hunger but add to our nutritional intake. Moreover, keep in mind data suggests up to a quarter of our daily calories come from snacking. 

Add to that while our metabolism decreases around 2 percent as we age and we require 150 fewer calories per day each decade after age 20, our nutritional needs do not. Snacking on foods high in sugars and sodium can contribute to a steady weight gain over the years. 

Nutritionists recommend consuming foods low in calories but filling, and to limit yourself to around 100 to 150 calories. Afternoon snacks high in protein such as yogurt or low-fat cottage cheese allow you to feel fuller longer. Studies found those who ate high-protein snacks rather than crackers or chocolate ate up to 100 fewer calories at dinner. 

Fiber is another component to smart snacking. Wright explains, “Fiber aids digestive health and can assist us with blood sugar control and lowering cholesterol.” Good snacks high in fiber include almonds, unsalted soy nuts, berries, carrots with hummus, and whole grain crackers. 

Sugary cookies and candies are loaded with calories and neither fill you up nor add to your daily nutritional intake. Dietary recommendations include avoiding sugar, fried foods and processed foods, which have been shown to trigger fat tissue inflammation, an indicator of heart disease, and worsen arthritis inflammation. 

For trusted assisted living or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Happy Valley.  Along with beautiful private suites, we offer residents resort-style amenities and services as well as a range of activities, wellness programs and nutritional, tasty meals.  We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed within a community setting.  

The dining service at MorningStar is under the direction of our own Executive Chef.  Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and are modified to accommodate low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat choices so that residents can self-manage any dietary restrictions.  MorningStar also makes it a priority to use foods that have been recognized by the medical community to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, Oregon.

Source:aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2019/5-ways-to-snack-smarter.html

Are You Looking for Assisted Living in the Happy Valley, Oregon area?

If you are looking for assisted living in the Happy Valley, Oregon area, MorningStar of Happy Valley is one of the best places to start.  Offering 61 suites for assisted living with a choice of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans, we also offer all the amenities and services to ensure your every comfort.  You may recognize the MorningStar name.  In addition to senior living communities throughout the Western U.S., nearby locations include MorningStar of Hillsboro, MorningStar of Beaverton and MorningStar at Laurelhurst, now under construction in Portland.

We encourage you to visit our website as we have lots of information available along with photos that capture the full beauty and inviting warmth of our community.  There you will find a great description of our home, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to our welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  The page also has a button to Amenities and Suite Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities and highlights the comforts of our private suites. 

Our private suites have been designed with all the conveniences and safety precautions needed to ensure both your comfort and safety.  Each bathroom is handicapped accessible, and all apartments have an emergency call system.   Throughout our large common areas just some of the amenities include a bistro, general store, chapel/theater, massage room, salon, and fitness room.  To enjoy the outdoors, we offer raised garden beds, strolling paths and courtyard with a barbecue and fire pit.

As a resident in assisted living, your care plan will be based on a thorough assessment of your medical history and personal preferences, and routinely evaluated to ensure it is relevant to your care needs.  Range of services include assisting residents with the activities of daily living (ADLs) as well as life enrichment activities and wellness programs.  Also, families get peace of mind knowing trained care managers are there to help navigate any changes in the health and wellbeing of their loved one.   

Please visit our website for contact information and give us a call to inquire about availability and pricing or connect with us online.  We look forward to meeting you and your family.   

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We provide a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

There are Trusted Treatment Options for Dementia

Receiving news of a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis does not signal the end of an individual’s full life. The way they once understood the world will change and communication with them will become different, but the conscious choices we make to treat dementia and other forms of memory loss make all the difference to the individual struggling. There is currently no cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, but we still have the choice to make thriving treatment plans that respect and honor seniors with dementia. Holistic memory care for dementia patients is offered at MorningStar Senior Living in Boise which encourages specialized treatment for those struggling with memory loss. 

The ambition of holistic dementia care is to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore the diagnosis of dementia and Alzheimer’s– not to avoid it. This means treating an individual’s illness on a case-by-case situation. It is important to not assume that every dementia care plan will work the same for every senior struggling with memory loss. Like a fine coat, care should be tailored and specialized to whom it belongs. MorningStar’s memory care focuses on relationship-based care. Compassionate, selflessly trained professionals get to know and understand each resident on a personal level and meet unique needs with a custom approach. 

At MorningStar at Englefield Green, we provide all the amenities and services to ensure a resident’s utmost comfort and safety in memory care. There are extensive onsite amenities and services adjacent to their daily activities. Residents in memory care can conveniently and safely visit our salon to have their hair styled or be pampered with a manicure or pedicure, participate in meaningful wellness programs and activities, or enjoy a movie in our theatre. We also provide scheduled transportation for doctor appointments and other errands, as well as engage in activities such as scenic drives in the Boise area or walks around the neighborhood. Weekly, talented entertainers from the area come in to offer live music, dance, or other forms of entertainment for our residents enjoyment.

The diagnosis of dementia is devastating, but we are here to walk with you through this difficult journey. If you need loving, professional memory care in Boise, Idaho, trust the experts at MorningStar at Englefield Green. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living options in Boise ID. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Memory Care of Englefield Green “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho. 

Overlooked Benefits of Assisted Living

Many times, a move to assisted living facilities is not only good for the senior but for the family as well. Mom or dad living alone, perhaps already experiencing a fall or another type of health emergency, is stressful for everybody involved. 

Senior living experts point out the benefits of receiving attentive senior care along with services like nutritional meals, access to meaningful programs and transportation to and from appointments. At communities like MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we sit down with in-coming residents to create a Personalized Service Plan designed to help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), which include things like bathing, grooming, transferring (such as from bed to a wheelchair), feeding and toileting. 

Dee Pekruhn, director of life plan communities’ services and policy for LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services, says, “Whether they stand alone or are part of a larger continuing care campus, assisted living communities offer a wide variety of community and social activities.” These typically include arts and crafts, physical exercise classes such as chair yoga, live concerts and other entertainment, and educational and technology classes. At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we tell our residents if we don’t already have a class addressing one of your interests, to start one. 

Special outings and trips are another component of many senior living communities including MorningStar of Rio Rancho. Bus trips to local, scenic spots, or trips to the mall or cultural events are just some of the activities residents enjoy.  

Another important service is medication management as statistics show the average older adult takes four or more prescription drugs each day, and as high as 39 percent of seniors take five or more. Medical management ensures seniors take the proper medication they need, when they need it. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho is proud to offer the finest senior housing Rio Rancho offers with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our community offers 51 private assisted living suites and 26 suites in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Contact us to inquiry about availability, and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.   

Source: 

health.usnews.com/best-assisted-living/slideshows/how-assisted-living-improves-quality-of-life?

Memory Care is Individualized in Boise

Many of us joke of “senior moments” when things slip our mind as we age. However, a true diagnosis of brain disease, where memory loss and other cognitive functions begin to deteriorate, is a crushing reality. The news of a dementia diagnosis ushers seniors and their families onto a winding and mysterious road that often feels misguided. Dementia care for seniors that is individualized to their specific needs is inclusive memory care that focuses on the individual, not the illness. MorningStar is a senior living facility that offers specialized care for individuals with dementia aged 55 and up in Boise, Idaho. MorningStar is honored to offer supported and senior living for those with memory impairment.

Newly opened in the fall of 2017, MorningStar takes a unique, holistic approach to memory care, striving to find ways to connect with and nurture the individual, no matter the level of memory loss. As dementia care experts, our unique philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” in which we compassionately choose to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore. By leveraging the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals, we comfort and heal, and have proudly created a community that feels like a true home. 

When a family makes the decision to entrust Englefield Green with the memory care of their loved one, we meet with them to learn as much as we can about the individual’s background, talents, interests, and personal preferences as possible. To know our residents is to love our residents. Once becoming part of the community, all memory care residents participate in a range of purposeful and meaningful activities that engage their passion, interest, and creativity collectively to encourage collaboration and socialization. 

The diagnosis of dementia is devastating, but we are here to walk with you through this difficult journey. If you need loving, professional memory care in Boise, Idaho, trust the experts at MorningStar at Englefield Green. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living options in Boise ID. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Memory Care of Englefield Green “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho.

Helping a Loved One Adjust to an Assisted Living Community

Many times, a move to assisted living for an elderly loved one is due to an event such as a recent hospitalization for a fall or a worsening medical condition. This means the person does not have the time to process the move from a beloved home, and the sudden change may be very upsetting. Even for seniors who have had the time to plan a move into assisted living, it may be challenging. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we know the many benefits assisted living communities such as ours afford to residents; but at the same time, we recognize any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly one of those events. In addition to our own experience, experts also offer suggestions to families on how best to support their loved one during the transition. 

It may ease the transition for the person to get as familiar as possible with the new community and staff before the move.  Also, after a decision is made, let your loved one decide what furniture and keepsakes they want to move with them and help them decorate.   If possible, arrange furniture and decorations in a similar way and display photos and other keepsakes to make the new place feel like “home.”  

Keep in mind the person may feel abandoned, or frustrated with their perceived loss of independence and decision making, and have a hard time adjusting to a change in their routine. Give the person plenty of support during the first days and weeks at the community, but don’t overdo it. This could actually be counterproductive and prevent a loved one from making an adjustment. Instead, emphasizing the move is an opportunity to start a new chapter in their life.  

In some cases, seniors make a quick adjustment and recognize the advantage of no longer worrying about their homes’ maintenance or preparing meals. They like the ease of a more robust social life and feel a peace of mind knowing help is around whenever they need it. For others it may take a little more time.

In addition to assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers individualized memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (from a week to a full month) to see if we are a good fit.  Please visit our website for information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other senior living communities.

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

How to Help a Parent Transition to Assisted Living

No matter how old we are, change can be challenging. For seniors who have had just that much more time to get used to the way things are, a change in the status quo can be difficult. When faced with a change in lifestyle and residence, a person may mourn what they perceive as a loss of their independence and younger self, and the loss of a home filled with a lifetime of memories. However, regardless of how we long to keep things the same, change is a fact of life; and for many seniors, life could be better with a little daily help. 

When mom or dad would benefit from the many services offered by assisted living, there are a few things families can do to help ease the transition. To start with, senior care specialists recommend making the effort to set up mom or dad’s new suite with familiar, well-loved furnishings and mementos rather than buying all new things.

Another important step toward a smooth transition is to give it time. Experts say it generally takes anywhere from three to six months to adjust to community life, but in some cases, residents settle into it quickly. If your parent is one to make a slow adjustment, remember why the move was necessary in the first place including a real concern for their safety and well-being as well as your need for peace of mind. 

Some experts say it may be helpful to limit your visits and phone calls to allow your parents some time to find their own way. Also if they want to vent about how unhappy they are, give them some space to do so. Validating their feelings can help them work through their fears and uncertainty about the changes they are experiencing. 

At MorningStar of San Jose, our team is experienced in helping new residents feel at home and work with both them and their family to help with the transition. We offer assisted living and memory care along with senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities designed to enhance quality of life. 

MorningStar’s distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Please visit our website for more information on senior living in Rio Rancho, NM and ask about our Move-in Specials.    

Research has Shown Pets are Beneficial to Seniors

Research has shown pets are beneficial to seniors. A Place for Mom’s website reports on one study, which found “15 minutes spent bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.” Researchers explain interactions between humans and pets can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke. 

Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection. In fact, animals lift the spirits of those in hospitals, convalescent homes, mental health centers, nursing homes, and assisted living communities through pet therapy programs. Moreover, pet therapy has proven beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Experts point to the animal’s full acceptance and non-verbal communication as being soothing for patients.      

It was not that long ago that seniors moving into an assisted living community had to leave behind an important companion, their pet. Today however, more and more senior communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar of Happy Valley, allow residents to bring their pets with them. We do ask that you check with us regarding our pet policy.  

Please contact us with your questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. Our beautiful community offers 61 stylish suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, 27 secure memory care suites are devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar of Happy Valley provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Compassionate, Individualized Memory Care in Happy Valley, OR

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 27 secure suites in a range of floor plans for the comprehensive care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our home is honored to provide compassionate, individualized care for residents from the earliest stages of the disease to the most advanced. 

The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents.  As such, it means we can encourage and support independence as much as possible and let residents move freely about their environment including an enclosed courtyard.  In fact, every aspect of our community from the physical design to a range of purposeful activities, food service, security and more offers residents a comfortable, stress-free lifestyle.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care involves treating each of our residents with the respect and dignity they deserve.  Even before a resident joins our community, we meet with them and their family to find out as much as we can about their background and interests as well as personal preferences.  From there, we create an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration.

Most importantly we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts who recognize it is a privilege to serve seniors. They enjoy listening to life stories, view family photos and make sure each one feels loved, safe, and respected. All team members, regardless of position, receive training in Radiance, which is much more than a customer service program. It is how we build a culture of consistency, authenticity and genuine concern for the needs of others and guides the way we dispense service – with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.   

If a parent, spouse or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the MorningStar of Happy Valley team is here to help. Our loving care is designed to provide the highest quality of life possible. Please visit our website or contact us for further 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. 

These Dementia Experts Offer Trusted Memory Care in Boise

Under a “Lavender Sky,” this community differs from other senior living communities in that their purpose was built to encourage and support a resident’s right to choice and independence to the fullest extent possible while not discounting safety or health. At MorningStar at Englefield Green, MorningStar feels it is their calling and privilege to serve the most tender memory care seniors in Boise. They provide the type of care that affirms seniors’ dignity and value. 

As dementia care experts, our unique philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” in which we compassionately choose to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore the world of dementia. Through our philosophy of a “Lavender Sky,” our dementia care in Boise, ID leverages holistic healthcare and the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals. We have proudly created a community that feels like a true home.

Once a family makes the decision to entrust Englefield Green with the care of their loved one, we meet with the family and potential resident to learn as much as we can about the individual’s background, talents, interests and personal preferences. To fully know our residents is to love them as if they are our own family. All residents participate in a range of purposeful and meaningful activities and engage in special events and outings.

The diagnosis of dementia is devastating and hard to navigate on your own. MorningStar at Englefield Green is here to walk with you through this difficult journey and help you make the best choices possible for your loved one. If you need loving, professional memory care in Boise, Idaho, trust the experts at MorningStar at Englefield Green.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green in Boise, Idaho and how we became a trusted provider of memory care families rely on. MorningStar at Englefield Green cares for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho

Important Cell Phone Safety Tips for Seniors with Dementia

Being able to communicate with your loved one in memory care is important in the event anything happens or if they need your help while you’re away. Even in the most apt and trusted senior care facilities, such as MorningStar at Englefield Green, knowing your loved one has an extra way to contact you in case of an emergency gives you a much-needed feeling of relief. However, there are also problems that may arise when individuals with dementia have access to fully functioning cell phones. 

Cellphones, such as smartphones, have the ability to create communication with individuals across many platforms and apps. While these services are beneficial to most people, the ability to explore the internet in this capacity may pose some threats to a senior dealing with memory loss. If left to full access to a smartphone, an individual with dementia may unknowingly contact strangers or give away private information that could potentially harm them or their family. The unlimited amount of interface on a smartphone may also frustrate and confuse a senior with memory loss, causing an emotional outburst. 

Senior care facilities, such as MorningStar’s memory care in Boise, Idaho, advocates for independence and exploration of their dementia care residents. However, senior safety is still of utmost concern. In this way, limiting a cell phone’s ability may be the most beneficial to your loved one living with memory loss. Altering a cell phone to only be able to call and text a few individuals keeps your loved one safe and allows for that added form of communication between a select few. 

The simpler a cell phone is, the easier your loved one will be able to navigate it without many issues. A phone with a large screen and clear, plastic buttons helps absolve frustration many seniors may feel about not knowing how to work a cell phone. Uploading games or streaming services onto your senior’s phone can be an easy form of entertainment and comfort for them, just make sure the software is user friendly. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green in Boise, Idaho and how we became a trusted provider of memory care families rely on. MorningStar at Englefield Green cares for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho

Foods From the Bean Family are Linked to Longevity

When we look at cultures with a reputation for longevity, leading nutritionists and food scientists say there is one food group that stands out. “Blue zones,” areas known for having many of their inhabitants live to an advanced age of hundred years or more, include in their diet, five of the ten most recommended foods. All are from the bean family and include lentils, soybeans, peanuts (a legume in the same family as peas and lentils), chickpeas and black beans.

People living on the Japanese island of Okinawa might enjoy a dinner of stir-fried green beans, soybeans or mung sprouts. Another meal in Nicoya, Costa Rico typically includes black beans. Known for a high level of anthocyanins, a pigment that gives red, purple, and blue plants their rich coloring, beans help fight free radicals and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. In fact, anthocyanins offer 10 times the antioxidants of an equivalent serving of oranges. 

Nutritionists say beans also boost the immune system by supplying the fiber our microbiomes need. They suggest the local diet of people in blue zones help them avoid many of the same health risks Americans suffer from such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and cancers. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we offer residents a lifestyle in which to comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our all-day dining service includes meals prepared under the direction ot to medical facilities, shopping and other services, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to specialized dementia care for residents with memory impairment. Contact us or visit our website for more information and to request a tour.

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.

Source: cnbc.com/2020/09/15/adding-this-simple-food-to-your-diet-may-help-you-live-to-100-says-longevity-health-researcher.html

Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

Rather than diminish a senior’s life, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways.  Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for.  

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living homes is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat.  Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion.  Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more.  

Moreover, at the CDC reports that each year about 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.   

Along with assisted living, Happy Valley area families trust MorningStar to compassionately care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with kindness and thoughtfulness.

Our beautiful community is in a southeastern suburb of Portland, Oregon on the south side of SE Sunnyside Road between SE 142nd Ave. and SE 145th Ave, and about three miles from Interstate 205.  The popular Happy Valley food-cart park borders us to the east and Clackamas Town Center is just minutes away. Please visit our website for more information. 

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 or visit our website for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.

Preventing Dangerous Medical Errors

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude. 

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ offices or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume. 

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask. 

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.  

For exceptional senior housing, Rio Rancho seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar. Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or see our website for more information about MorningStar of Rio Rancho.

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 housing Rio Rancho has to offer.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

Life After a Loved One’s Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all.  Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold.  Most are left with questions about what to expect next.  

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.”  They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better.  Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors.  Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned.  You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.   

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day.  A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so.  Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away.  

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings.  They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses.  Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our goal is to provide the best senior living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our memory care residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve and spend each day in an atmosphere that celebrates and elevates their lives. Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional assisted living and senior living communities. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “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 assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley.

Trusted Memory Care at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

Are you the adult child or spouse of someone who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Rio Rancho we understand the anguish and heartache that families go through seeing their beloved mom, dad, or spouse change before their eyes. 

If the diagnosis is recent, you are most likely wrestling with lots of questions including what will the future bring and who will be there to provide the level of care the person will probably need.  We hear you and want you to know our experienced team is here to help with holistic memory care that focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss. 

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. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings.

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as solutions to challenging behaviors.  For trusted senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM, contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 living in Rio Rancho, NM.

A Strong Community Benefits Memory Loss

A Dementia diagnosis is heartbreaking for families and our loved ones. When navigating Alzheimer’s or another Dementia related disease, it is important to not be consumed by the diagnosis and lose sight of the individual themselves who is struggling. Your loved one is still counting on help to maintain their autonomy, independence, and encouragement of their passions and hobbies that they were once so fond of. A holistic approach to memory care builds a relationship with the person in front of you and works to treat them, not just their disease. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. This means that it is most important to care for individuals in a way that grants them comfort, enrichment, and fulfillment through connection and self-exploration. 

Alyssa Merrill, the Wellness Director at MorningStar at Englefield Green, revels in their connection to MorningStar’s seniors in memory care. Merrill states that, “since childhood I’ve been drawn to seniors. My grandparents had a huge impact on me, helping to instill compassion and love. Because of them, I am who I am today. I take pride in helping families in their tenderest time of need and offering comfort and knowledge to ease difficult situations. Listening to their stories of endurance gives me a different outlook and the strength to know that even when times feel impossible, this too shall pass.”

Merrill’s statement encompasses our holistic approach to memory care that we call “Lavender Sky.” “Lavender Sky” is an exploration within a memory loss diagnosis, such as Alzheimer’s, that encourages an embrace of the diagnosis, not a suppression of the disease. Our holistic memory care allows caretakers to expand their knowledge and understanding of what it means to have Alzheimer’s. Through a “Lavender Sky,” we can attempt to better understand the individual struggling with Dementia and fully “enter, embrace, and explore” the world of memory loss and Alzheimer’s together. In doing so, we can connect more with our residents and provide better, personalized care in an extraordinary way.

MorningStar at Englefield Green specifically cares for seniors with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia aged 55 and older. Our facility at MorningStar at Englefield Green is specialized and more acclimated to the care of individuals in need of memory care. MorningStar personalizes our care to everyone’s unique needs. To better be able to do so, we offer 24-hour care staff available for our alzheimers care homes residents. Our community, while on the smaller side, is made of 50 suites including spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments as well as amenities and services to ensure the comfort, safety, and wellbeing of our memory care residents in Boise, Idaho.  

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, and offers loving, compassionate care in a beautiful setting. Please set up a tour to learn more about the finest individualized memory care in Boise.