MorningStar at Bear Creek Offers Experienced Memory Care

Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia is difficult for the person and their family. All of one’s carefully laid plans are cast aside as their future takes a much different path. MorningStar at Bear Creek wants families to know we are here to help.

We are a memory care in Colorado Springs, close to medical facilities, shopping, and other services. MorningStar has senior living communities across eleven states, where we have worked hard to become dementia

MorningStar’s extensive experience in alzheimer care has allowed us to gain a deep understanding of the disease, and we consider it our privilege to serve those with memory loss. We recognize that the person’s essence remains and we are committed to finding ways to connect with and nurture that essence.

We also consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired on this unexpected journey. Our unique approach to care is called Lavender Sky, which is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of memory loss.

Before the resident joins our community, we take the time to get to know them through interviews with their family members to learn about their history, vocation, talents and preferences. We then use this knowledge to help us design an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration.

Every aspect of our care is designed to address the needs of our residents including 24/7 compassionate Care Managers, wellness programs and activities that will stimulate and calm as needed. In addition, our services include daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, scheduled outings and special events.

Our suites accommodate a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they are sure to feel right at home. For residents’ safety, suites are equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. We also offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for residents with Artificial Intelligence (AI). Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care facility in Colorado Springs.

Recognizing Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease Can Be Difficult

Experts explain it is not always easy to recognize Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages. Some of the first signs of the disease include things that can be passed off as “old age” such as forgetfulness. Many otherwise healthy older adults find their brains are not as sharp as they were when they were younger. Other symptoms may come on so slowly, families are not aware of the changes. In some cases the individual hides the problems or compensates for them so they don’t stand out.

Doctors say it is important to try and recognize the early signs of Alzheimer’s as many of the available treatments work better if they are started in the early stages. Talk to your healthcare provider about scheduling the necessary tests to help you get a diagnosis.

Although the outset of symptoms can differ from person to person, it is generally believed one of the early signs is short-term memory. As the disease progresses, individuals forget conversations, repeat themselves and start to ask the same questions over and over. Eventually long-term memories start to erode.

Disorientation often follows with a person having a hard time figuring out time and space. They may think it is time to go even though they just got somewhere, or think they are hungry after they have just eaten. The person may not have a firm grasp of spatial surroundings and not be sure where they are. Lapses in judgement and a hard time making decisions increase their confusion.

As Alzheimer’s advances, the person experiences increased difficulty functioning within their daily life. Communication is harder and the person can become moody, withdrawn or depressed.

Risk factors for Alzheimer’s include family history, age and gender. Most cases occur after age 65 and it affects more women than men. Having a parent or sibling with the disease doubles the person’s risk. A gene identified as apolipoprotein E (ApoE) has three variants: E2, E3, and E4. It is the E4 variant that scientists believe plays a role in the faulty clearing of beta-amyloid deposits from the brain.

Studies also suggest many of the same factors that harm the heart such as high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes as well as smoking, being depressed or hearing loss can increase your risk. Talk to your doctor about any warning signs you may have or the impact of your risk factors.

As Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases progress, a loved one may need more care than they can get living at home. When the time comes for memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Bear Creek, a senior community offering specialized care for individuals with memory impairment diseases. Our comprehensive care supports residents with services, wellness programs and activities designed to enhance quality of life. Contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted dementia care in Colorado Springs. 

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care Pueblo has to offer.

Choosing an Assisted Living Community

A US News & World Report article discusses how to determine which assisted living community would be the best fit for you or a loved one. They explain that while there may be similarities between communities, upon closer scrutiny, each one will most likely have its own strengths and weaknesses.

To begin narrowing down the various communities, visit their websites to get answers to commonly asked questions. From there you can call to inquire about availability and pricing, and if the place sounds good, go ahead and book an in-person tour. While at the community, make the effort to speak to as many people as possible. Try to be there during an activity to see how engaged residents are, and join the group for lunch if you have the opportunity.

Furthermore, this is a good time to discuss the range of senior care options to determine if they can provide the level of care you need. Ask about policies regarding joining the community and what happens if it doesn’t work out. If there is a daily calendar of activities and events, ask for a copy. You will also want to know if they provide transportation for doctor’s appointments and other errands. If you do eat a meal, what did you think of the quality? Another thing to pay attention to is the cleanliness and smell of the community.

As mentioned earlier, location is important. Is the community convenient for your family and friends and close to your doctors and other personal services? When visitors do come, is there adequate parking? Is there a relaxing spot to sit outside when the weather is nice?

Now consider personal preferences. Does the size of the community matter to you? How does the list of amenities stack up to things you are interested in doing? For example, is an onsite salon important or do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Would you like to attend services at an onsite chapel?

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, we offer assisted living suites in a variety of stylish floor plans featuring a kitchenette, private heating & cooling and housekeeping services. For your safety, every suite has a handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. We also provide comprehensive care services along with luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities which allow you to live life to the fullest. Please contact us for more information and to schedule a tour in senior living Billings. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Billings, Montana.

Source: health.usnews.com/best-assisted-living/articles/assisted-living-checklist?

Staying Healthy and Active as You Age

Studies show more people are living over a decade or more in poor physical and mental health, often making it difficult to care for themselves. Since we are living much longer than our ancestors, scientists are looking at ways to help us live a healthier, more active life. An article in National Geographic writes about current research focused on trying to boost a person’s active, disease-free years. The concept, known as “healthspan,” has researchers looking at ways to “understand the underlying mechanisms of aging, working to identify health-promoting genes, and zeroing in on steps in our daily lives to improve our healthspan.”

While over the last few years we have seen articles promoting drugs as a way to increase longevity, Sharon Inouye, a Harvard Medical School physician-scientist who looks at aging issues, says prevention may be the clue to a longer healthspan. Another scientist, Nir Barzilai, associated with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York, says, rather than promoting the use of longevity drugs; we need to prioritize exercise, nutrition, sleep and social connectivity to enhance overall health.

If prevention is the answer, then health experts say it would be beneficial for people to start being monitored in their 30s or 40s for baseline health data such as vitamins, hormones, and blood sugar levels. Knowing our future health risk could help us make better decisions about how we live our lives now.

Another important component to a longer healthspan is connecting with other people, which can become difficult as we age. This is why for many older adults senior living communities can be the answer. Within the community, you can connect with a group of peers that share many of your life experiences. Residents additionally enjoy exploring new activities while expanding their group of friends.

At MorningStar of Billings, we offer a choice of stylish cottages and suites for independent living along with suites in a variety of floor plans for assisted living. Our beautiful community promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle with luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs and activities to comfortably and safely age in place. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic care for residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases designed to enhance quality of life. Please visit our website to learn more, and to set up an in-person tour of our welcoming community.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care in Billings, Montana.

The Cognitive Advantages of Using Digital Technologies

For the last couple of decades, scientists have been concerned about the harm of using too much technology and that it could have a negative impact on brain function. Dr Manfred Spitzer, a German neuroscientist and psychiatrist, coined the term “digital dementia” in a 2012 book written to address what he saw as a problem. Since then, as social media became more popular, studies show people of all ages spend an average of 2 hours and 24 minutes a day scrolling on the Internet.

Last year, a study published in the journal, Nature Human Behaviour, reports older adults who routinely use electronic devices like a cell phone, tablet or computer may be protecting themselves from cognitive decline as well as reducing their risk of dementia. Researchers looked at data from over 136 studies involving cognitive or dementia diagnosis information pertaining to more than 400,000 participants with an average age of 69 years old.

The study found a correlation of a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment in seniors using digital technology. The lead author of the study, Michael K. Scullin, PhD, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor University, explains, “It’s important to note that the data didn’t go in the opposite direction.” He adds, “The great fear was that using computers, the Internet, and smartphones could lead to worse rates of cognitive impairment. There wasn’t compelling evidence for that in any of the studies we meta-analyzed.”

Even when controlling factors such as education, socioeconomic status, general health, lifestyle factors, or baseline cognition, ninety percent of the studies showed digital technology was linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Researchers say using our devices challenges our brains and helps us continue to learn new things. They also make it easy to stay in touch with family and friends, and socializing is another way to reduce the risk of dementia.

MorningStar at RidgeGate offers outstanding assisted living with a choice of floor plans, resort-style amenitiesf and activities designed to keep residents engaged and entertained. For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our devoted Reflections Neighborhood provides care services and activities geared toward residents’ individual needs. Contact us to set up a personalized tour to see firsthand our beautiful retirement communities.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Lone Tree, CO.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-using-digital-technology-lower-raise-dementia-risk?

Finding Assisted Living for Mom or Dad

If you have started searching for assisted living for a parent, you know it can be overwhelming. You are probably looking for a place that fits their budget, care needs, and lifestyle preferences. Moreover, you know it is not a decision to make lightly as you will not want to move mom or dad again after just a few months. That is why the experts suggest that if the circumstances allow you should take your time.

The Internet has several checklists and suggestions on what to look for when searching for communities offering assisted living including questions to ask when talking to the staff. One thing everyone agrees on is that it is a good idea to take a tour of the community.

Questions you will want to ask include suite sizes and configurations, pricing information and availability. If you plan to have both of your parents move in, ask if they can share a suite. Also, if applicable, find out if the community supports Companion Living (where two people of the same sex share a suite).

You will also want to learn more about the care services your loved one will receive. How is the level of care determined? Will they have access to care 24/7? How close is the community to medical care facilities and how are medical emergencies handled? Are nurses available and if so, how often? What is the staff-to-resident ratio and do the staff receive special training? Do any of the caregivers have CPR training?

In addition, ask about programs and activities available to residents. If possible, get a calendar of events to review later. Also, ask about the dining experience. Are meals offered all day? Is the dining room full service? Can a resident have meals delivered to their suite? If your parents have diet restrictions find out if they can be accommodated.

Location is another thing to consider as you will want a community that is convenient for family and friends to visit. Be sure to ask if you will be allowed to visit at any time or if there is a set schedule when residents can receive visitors.

At MorningStar, we look forward to answering all your questions. Our dedicated team works hard to give our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community second to none. Our beautiful home offers memory care in Highlands Ranch, CO area with a wide range of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care to those with memory impairment.

MorningStar takes 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 retirement communities Highlands Ranch, CO has to offer.

Finding Your Purpose and Passion After Retirement

Retirement can feel like stepping into a wide open space. Without the structure of work or raising a family, days may feel quieter and less defined. At the same time, this season offers a rare gift: the chance to choose how to spend time in ways that feel meaningful. Purpose in later life does not have to be grand or dramatic. It often grows from small, consistent choices that reflect values, interests, and relationships.

Looking Back to Move Forward

A helpful place to start is with gentle reflection. Asking a few simple questions can reveal clues about what matters most now:

• Which parts of earlier life brought the most satisfaction?

• What activities still bring a sense of calm or excitement?

• When do days feel most worthwhile?

Answers might point toward helping others, creating things, learning, or simply being present for loved ones. Recognizing these patterns can guide new decisions.

Exploring Old Interests and New Curiosities

Many people set aside hobbies or dreams during their working years. Retirement in memory care Fort Collins is an opportunity to revisit them or try something entirely new. Possibilities include:

• Returning to music, art, or writing

• Joining a walking group or fitness class

• Taking a course at a community college or library

• Volunteering for a cause that aligns with personal values

The goal is not perfection but engagement. Even modest involvement, such as a weekly class or a few hours of volunteering, can bring structure and a sense of accomplishment.

Finding Meaning in Relationships

Purpose often lives in the ways people connect with one another. Spending time with family, neighbors, or friends can feel just as significant as any project or role. Simple acts, such as:

• Reading with grandchildren

• Checking in on a neighbor

• Offering a listening ear to someone going through a hard time

can help build a sense of being needed and appreciated. In assisted living Fort Collins, shared meals, group activities, and informal chats in common areas often become important sources of daily meaning.

Adapting Purpose When Health Changes

Health challenges, including memory issues, can make old roles difficult to maintain. Yet purpose can evolve rather than disappear. For someone living with cognitive changes, small, achievable activities may feel more realistic: folding towels, watering plants, participating in music or art sessions, or simply enjoying time with a companion. In settings such as Alzheimers Care Fort Collins, staff and families often work together to identify activities that match current abilities while still honoring the person’s history and preferences.

Letting Purpose Grow Gradually

Finding passion in retirement does not always happen overnight. It can emerge through trying different activities, noticing what feels good, and letting go of what no longer fits. Some seasons may feel quieter, others more active. What matters most is staying open to experiences that bring connection, creativity, kindness, or learning. Over time, these choices weave together into a sense of purpose that fits this chapter of life, helping each day feel a little more grounded, engaged, and fulfilling.