MorningStar Senior Living: 2017

Sunday, December 31, 2017

It’s Important to Get Regular Eye Exams as You Age

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that “adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease should receive a baseline comprehensive eye evaluation at age 40. Individuals without risk factors aged 40 to 54 should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 2 to 4 years. Individuals without risk factors aged 55 to 64 should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 1 to 3 years.” They add that seniors 65 years and older without risk factors should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 1 to 2 years as the incidence of unrecognized ocular disease increases with age.

Since many age-related eye problems do not exhibit early symptoms, getting regular eye exams and being aware of any changes to your vision is critical. In addition it is important to remember that other health problems such as diabetes and hypertension as well as some medication can cause eye-related issues.

Your exam should include a check of your vision, coordination of eye muscles, peripheral vision, pupil response to light and color testing. Also the doctor will examine your eyelid inside and out along with the interior and back of the eye. A measurement of your eye fluid pressure will also be done that consists of a puff of air onto the eye with an instrument called a tonometer. This is used to check for glaucoma and other diseases.

Furthermore, you may be monitored for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) disease. This test includes trying to detect and monitor conditions affecting the macula by examining the back of your eye using special instruments. If you do not already have an eye doctor, see your health care provider for a referral.

This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult with your health care provider if you notice any changes in your vision.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community.

Source: http://www.aao.org/clinical-statement/frequency-of-ocular-examinations

Use our Comprehensive Website to Schedule a Visit

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, we are extremely proud of our community and want to encourage area families to schedule a visit to experience firsthand what we are all about. While our website is extremely comprehensive with lots of useful information and pictures, it is impossible to really experience MorningStar of Jordan’s total ambience without paying us a visit.

We understand that everyone is busy, which is why we will tailor your tour to address your priorities but we do ask that you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit to get a fair idea of our services and amenities. In addition we would love to have you join us for lunch (just let us know when you schedule your tour) to not only get a taste of our delicious, nutritional meals but to have a chance to enjoy the company. If you do want lunch, please plan to be here for about 90 minutes.

There are two easy ways to schedule a tour. You can go to our website and open the link to our convenient online form that takes just a few moments to fill out or pick up your phone and give us a call. Also if you would like, go ahead and initiate a live online chat with our operators and let us know how we can be of service. You will have the opportunity to ask a few questions and to leave your contact information so we can get back to you promptly.

MorningStar at Jordan offers both assisted living and memory care with 55 private assisted living suites and 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the care of those with memory impairments. You or your loved one deserves the best senior living community in the Denver area!

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our comfortable, home-like atmosphere.

Saturday, December 30, 2017

MorningStar is Pet Friendly

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 retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar at Jordan, allow residents to bring their pets with them.

There has been a lot of research that validates the benefits of pets in seniors’ lives. In fact, A Place for Mom website reports on a study that shows, “just 15 minutes 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.” They go on to say that interactions between pets and humans can “lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke.”

Another reason pets can be good for the elderly is that animals live in the here and now and do not think about tomorrow, which for some seniors, can be worrisome. In addition animals offer unconditional love, emotional support and affection. This is one reason why pet therapy programs are used in convalescent homes, hospitals, mental health centers and children centers. Many people participating in such programs experience an improvement in appetite as well as “more social interaction and tactile and cognitive stimulation after interactions with pets.”

There is even research that indicates pet therapy is beneficial for those suffering from dementia diseases such as Sundowners Syndrome and Alzheimer’s. The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication has proven to be soothing for patients.

Please contact us to learn more about the MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan community. With spacious suites and beautiful common areas, we are confident you will be impressed.

Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living

agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Different Levels of Care Offered at MorningStar

If you or your loved one needs assisted living, we encourage you to take a look at the best - MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan. A quick look through our photo gallery will show you pictures of our comfortable and stylish common areas and beautiful private suites as well as our lovely outdoor areas. Although we provide a range of resort style amenities and services , our most outstanding feature is a care staff that is genuinely committed to working with seniors.

Before you even move in, we will sit down with you and your family to discuss a care plan that addresses your various needs. For our assisted living residents, we offer as many as five Care Levels. Furthermore, as your care is managed and evaluated throughout your stay at our community, we adjust the level of care as needed. In addition to the cost of the suite, your monthly fee is determined by a simple point system that takes into account the cost and time of providing each service whether it is help with daily personal activities or medical assistance. This individualized care plan ensures you get the right amount of assistance as you need it.

For our Reflections Neighborhood memory care residents, our pricing is all-inclusive, regardless of the level of care needed. Also you should know that our community has the ability to care for residents from the onset of the disease all the way through to the advanced stages.

MorningStar at Jordan is comprised of 55 private assisted living suites and 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. While our website photos may show-off our beautiful home, you need to schedule a tour to see firsthand MorningStar at Jordan’s loving community.

Finding the Best Memory Care Community

If your parent or spouse is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, at some point, you may need to find a community that specializes in caring for them. Given the progression of the disease, your loved one may eventually require 24-hour supervised care that is specifically designed to provide the level of safety and care they need.

What important questions should you ask when looking for specialized care for a family member with a dementia related disease? One of their first recommendations is to make sure that the memory care community you are considering is fully equipped to care for the needs of your loved one.

In order to determine the level of care your parent or spouse requires, they suggest making a list of their medical and physical needs starting with their level of mobility and do they use a walker or wheelchair? Also besides dementia, what other illnesses or health concerns do they suffer from? It is important to explain any issues your loved one may have regarding aggression or other behaviors.

Next you need to ask the community some questions beginning with the staff to resident ratio during the day as well as at night and what type training does the staff go through. Be sure to ask whether there is a nurse on staff and if the place has a visiting physician. Also are residents given an individualized plan? Furthermore, what are the living arrangements and security measures in place to ensure the safety of residents? Do residents have a separate dining area and a safe outdoor space?

Now ask questions about the community’s treatment plans and the type of care they provide to residents. Do they engage in programs such as pet, music and/or reminiscence therapy? Are residents grouped according to cognitive level and is there a place for those in the early stages? Finally, after thorough consideration, you may just need to trust your instincts and choose the place you feel will provide the best care for your loved one.

This post is for informational purposes and should not be used in place of the advice of your health care provider.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community.

Source:aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/memory-care-checklist

Monday, December 25, 2017

Senior Living Answers a Variety of Needs

MorningStar of Billings offers a range of living options that meet the varying needs of seniors. Our community’s Independent Living includes 32 patio homes and 72 bright suites. We also have 70 assisted living suites and 36 secure suites dedicated to the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar of Billings’ Independent Living is the perfect answer for seniors who wish for a carefree, active lifestyle that provides built-in companionship and predictable budgeting. As a resident, you will not need to cook but rather can take advantage of daily, tasty meals prepared by our Executive Chef as well as our vast assortment of activities and wellness programs.

Also as a part of our community, you give up having to worry about maintaining a home both inside and out. Our Independent Living suites are equipped with everything you need including a washer/dryer along with full kitchens for when you rather prepare your own meal. Our community also has spacious common areas to enjoy the outdoors as well as a pool.

MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for seniors who want to retain their independence but require a little assistance on a daily basis. We offer various levels of support with activities of daily living along with 24/7 Care Managers, a full-time licensed nurse and more to ensure the comfort, well-being and safety of our residents.

In terms of our memory care, we feel privileged to help those suffering from memory loss and our goal is to find ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual every day. By learning about a person’s life, history and preferences, we are able to personalize their care and treat each resident with the respect and dignity they deserve. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Billings’ senior living options.

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our comfortable, home-like atmosphere.

Monday, December 18, 2017

At the Holidays, Don’t Expect Too Much from a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you may need to lower your expectations of what to expect from them during the holidays. When you include them in family gatherings, you must take precautions to not let them get over stimulated as boisterous, noisy activities can agitate and confuse people with dementia. Experts say it is better to have a small get-together or to set aside a quiet part of the house where relatives can take turns visiting the person in a more intimate setting.

The goal is to make the holiday season as easy on you as it is on the person with Alzheimer's so everyone can focus on enjoying their time together. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that you keep plans simple and maintain your loved one’s daily routines as much as possible to avoid upsetting them. They also advise celebrating early in the day and to have a noon meal rather than a late dinner.

If you are visiting your loved one at a memory care facility, bring along some pictures of the family and take the time to quietly sit and talk about them. If you are bringing your loved one to your home, play familiar music and serve foods you know they like. Set time aside to do some activities with the family such as making a memory book or telling stories. Other suggestions include taking a short walk or decorating cookies together.

Be sure to warn family members and friends about any changes in their behavior and condition so they do not expect more than the person has the ability to offer. Remind them that Alzheimer’s can diminish a person’s ability to communicate and that it is helpful to speak slowly and in a relaxed tone. The Alzheimer’s Association says to avoid saying things like, “Don’t you remember?” Also address the person by name and to be patient, stay calm and supportive.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a loving memory care community that provides expert care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more about our community.

Source: alz.org/flgulfcoast/alzheimers_disease_62487.asp

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Dealing with a Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is devastating for everyone in the family and an uncomfortable, difficult topic for people to talk about. In some cases, even physicians do not discuss the disease with their patients, and sometimes a person is unaware of the diagnosis. Others may try to hide their memory problems, and as a result, end up with little time to put their affairs in order and plan for the future.

However experts say it is important to discuss the diagnosis and its ramifications with your family in order to make your wishes known regarding your care. One of the things you will want to do is to designate a family member to make decisions on your behalf once you are unable to do so. With the help of your family, you will also need to make financial decisions such as setting aside assets to pay for long-term care in an assisted living facility or for home care. Keep in mind that planning ahead also gives your family peace of mind as they will know they are following your wishes.

Another one of the recommendations from experts who work with Alzheimer’s patients is to have the person tell their life story. This can be in a journal form or recorded and provides a meaningful way for the family to bond together. Furthermore, it helps to make the person feel that they are a valued member of the family.

At MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek, we provide individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. We treat each of our residents with dignity and respect and find ways to connect with and nurture their very essence. Our memory care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages. Please visit our website to learn more.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2017-06-26/5-steps-to-ending-the-stigma-surrounding-dementia

Friday, December 8, 2017

Something for Everyone at MorningStar

The MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan community is specifically designed for seniors who value their independence but need a little assistance. We provide a “true home” for our residents and strive to create a family-like atmosphere that is supportive and loving. In addition to our wide range of wellness and fun activities and outings, we host special events throughout the year.

Looking at our website, you will see an assortment of pictures from some of our special events at MorningStar Jordan. These activities range from a trip to a chocolate and ice-cream factory to a visit from an Elvis impersonator which had at least one resident singing and dancing during the entire performance.

Along with regular activities like Penny Blackjack and Nickel Bingo, our community also participates in important causes such as the The Longest Day event, held each year on the summer solstice, to show love and fundraise for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The Food Committee, made up of residents, gets together each month to discuss their food likes and dislikes. Favorite recipes can be submitted and our Executive Chef does his best to create these dishes. During these meetings Chef Alan also does a food tasting with a demonstration. Last June, in keeping with our “purple theme” for The Longest Day, we enjoyed Acai & Blueberry smoothies made with honey, nonfat yogurt and coconut water. Delicious!

Our community has a total of 55 private assisted living suites and 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Please visit our website to learn more and be sure to set up a tour to experience firsthand the loving atmosphere at MorningStar at Jordan.

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

“Sundowner’s Syndrome”

Now that Daylight Saving Time has ended, it can be especially tough on individuals who suffer from the condition known as sundowner’s syndrome says author Rick Phelps who is afflicted with the condition. He explains that when we lose so much daylight and are faced with the typically dreary, dark cloudy days of winter, those with sundowner’s can get further confused.

The Mayo Clinic describes sundowner’s syndrome as “a state of confusion at the end of the day and into the night.” They explain that it is not an actual disease but rather a symptom of Alzheimer's and typically peaks in the middle stage of the disease.

In fact the Alzheimer’s Association says that, “As many as 20 percent of persons with Alzheimer's will experience increased confusion, anxiety and agitation beginning late in the day. Others may experience changes in their sleep schedule and restlessness during the night.” Researchers do not understand the exact cause of sundowning but it appears to be triggered by a number of factors including fatigue or an overreaction to the day’s sensory stimulation. The inability to see well in the dark or hormonal imbalances that occur at night could be the cause of some of the anxiety people experience.

Furthermore, since many people with the syndrome do not get a good night’s sleep that can trigger behavioral problems. In addition to anxiety and confusion, the condition can also result in aggression, anger, depression, pacing, fear, restlessness, hallucinations, paranoia, wandering and violence.

Experts offer some tips to better cope with sundowner’s syndrome such as keeping your home well-lit during the evening hours and following a strict schedule for meals and bedtimes. They recommend that activities be scheduled in the morning or early afternoon to give the person plenty of time to unwind before evening. Sleep disturbances should be discussed with the person’s health care provider. We encourage you to read Rick Phelps full article on sundowning that is published in the MorningStar at Bear Creek’s November In Touch newsletter.

This post is for information purposes only and not a substitute for seeking medical advice from your health care provider.

Sources: agingcare.com/Articles/sundowners-syndrome-133187.htm

agingcare.com/articles/autumn-and-sundowning-210080.htm

Thursday, November 16, 2017

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

In 1983, Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, now known as National Alzheimer's Disease and Awareness Month (NADAM) and Family Caregivers Month®. The Alzheimer’s Association states that back then, fewer than 2 million Americans had Alzheimer’s. Now in 2017, it is estimated there are around 5.5 million people in the United States afflicted with the disease. Of that number, one in 10 people over age 65 have Alzheimer’s and nearly half of people over age 85.

The Alzheimer’s Association Awareness events include honoring a caregiver by sharing a personal tribute message on their website. We encourage you to take a look as it is heartwarming to read the tributes posted by people who are so grateful for the care given to a loved one from another family member, friend or professional caregiver.

Another way to honor Alzheimer’s Awareness month is to learn all you can about the disease and then help to educate others. For instance, did you know that Alzheimer’s is typically diagnosed in the middle to later stages ofthe disease so many people go untreated during the years that treatments are most effective? Also everyone needs to know that memory loss is not a normal part of aging, and that some of the risk factors for “Alzheimer’s can be actively managed to reduce the likelihood of cognitive decline.” Finally, we should not lose hope as most certainly breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of the disease are on the horizon.

If your parent or spouse has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we encourage you to contact MorningStar at Bear Creek. Our community has 48 suites all devoted to the individualized care of those suffering from dementia, and in addition, we are a resource for families in the Colorado Springs area dealing with Alzheimer’s. At Bear Creek, we lovingly care for seniors from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

Source:.caring.com/articles/alzheimers-awareness-month

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Resident–Directed Memory Care at MorningStar

If you are looking for a Colorado Springs community devoted to care of those with dementia-related diseases, you will definitely want to take a look at MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek.

At Bear Creek, we take a gentle, resident-directed approach to calm and awaken memories as well as to support capabilities. Along with using multi-sensory cues, including aromatherapy, our residents are provided with recreational and meaningful activities including music, life skills, art, entertainers and exercises.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), “being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself,” and that “even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging.” At MorningStar we could not agree more, which is why we offer scheduled exercise every morning with programs such as: Chair Exercises, Morning Stretches, and Circle Ball Exercises. In addition to presenting creative ways to help our residents remain active, each day at Bear Creek is filled with activities that simulate all five senses to feed the whole body and brain. The result is often a noticeable difference in mood and physical well-being.

One of our unique approaches to memory care includes life skill stations where we incorporate a variety of props that may have played a role in a person’s background to help awaken dormant memories. When individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia diseases are reminded of their past, they have the opportunity to take joy in the present and feel calm and connected.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, and we are devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community.

Source:nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseforolderadults/healthbenefits/01.html

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Does Your Parent Need More Care?

Often families are caught unaware when an aging parent has a fall or another event that immediately signals they need more assistance in their daily life. You many feel like a neglectful son or daughter for not noticing the changes happening before your eyes, but many seniors routinely deny they need help as they fear losing their independence. However getting the proper care can actually help make them feel more independent as they know they can live their life without worry and help is available when they need it.

Experts cite several common signs that may indicate your parent needs more assistance including changes in the way they live. For incidence if your mom was always a good housekeeper, and now her home is looking un-kept, or your dad who always took pride in his appearance, now looks as if he is not bathing regularly. Significant weight loss may also mean a senior is not eating well and/or having trouble preparing meals.

Watch for signs your parent is having trouble walking or appears unsteady and is having difficulty getting up from a seated position. Other changes are signs of confusion or uncertainty performing familiar tasks. A dangerous side effect of poor memory can be seniors forgetting to take medications or not following their doctor’s care plan. Errands can also be difficult to do as many seniors are uncomfortable driving and many stop driving altogether.

While assisted living was a relatively new concept when it first began around 25 years ago, today it is the fastest growing care option for seniors who are able to live independently but require a little assistance. At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, we provide assistance with “activities of daily living” (ADLs) such as: bathing, dressing, eating, toileting and more. Our community, located in the Denver suburb of Centennial, offers a total of 55 private assisted living suites and 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our comfortable, home-like atmosphere.