Sunday, August 27, 2017

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Affects the Whole Family


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 our MorningStar at Jordan’s Reflections Neighborhood, 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.   

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, we represent 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 contact us to schedule a tour.     

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

Saturday, August 19, 2017

Study Show Seniors Believe Technology is a Positive Thing


Despite often stereo-typing seniors as not knowing how to use or even liking today’s technology, a recent study from the Pew Research Center shows that may not be actually true.  Monica Anderson, the lead author of the study, explains that, "Even though they might be less likely to use these forms of technology, they do believe that technology is a quite positive thing for our society."  Moreover there are several new technologies that seniors have happily embraced.   

According to the research that involved surveying 3,015 adults, one of the most popular tech items older adults have adopted are smartphones.  The Pew study reports that the number of people 65 years and older who now own a smartphone is more than double from what is was just three years ago.  The rate of ownership went from 18 percent in 2013 to 42 percent of seniors not only owning a smartphone but willing to learn new ways to use them.  In fact Sanette Chao, a spokesperson for Verizon, states that the majority of the people who attend their Intro to Smartphone sessions are seniors. 

Another tool that seniors are using is the Internet.  Compared to the 12 percent of seniors who used the Internet in 2000, two-thirds of them are now using it.   However the numbers do change when you start looking at older seniors as the majority of those over 80 do not use the Internet.   Tablets are owned by approximated a third of seniors 65 years and older and 19 percent of older adults read their books on an e-reader.  E-readers offer the advantage of downloading a book whenever you want as well as the ability to change font size, which is great for seniors who are visually impaired.  

Other new technologies being adopted by older adults include direct deposit and online banking.  More seniors are also using social media and the Pew study found that one-third of all seniors’ survey used facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.   

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.       

Source:money.usnews.com/money/retirement/aging/articles/2017-07-24/5-technologies-older-americans-have-embraced 

 

Tuesday, August 15, 2017

For Families, Assisted Living Offers Peace of Mind


For family members, assisted living and memory care can offer peace of mind knowing that your parent or loved one is receiving the care and companionship they need to live safely and as independently as possible.  However we recognize that for some adult children or spouses, considering assisted living brings up feelings of guilt as you think you are not doing enough for them.   

As an adult child, you may realize that you have too many responsibilities already on your plate including your own children, a job and other constraints but still feel guilty about not offering your parent a home with you.  Even if you are a caregiver that has reached the point where you know the job is taking a toll on your own health and well-being and you are no longer able to provide the level of care your loved needs, you may still be hesitant to make changes.  

This is why assisted living and memory care communities such as MorningStar at Jordan offer the perfect solution.  Our purpose is not to replace you in the life of your aging parent or spouse but rather to assist you in your efforts to make their lives easier, safer and more comfortable. 

Our community, now celebrating its three-year anniversary, was designed and built to accommodate the needs of seniors.  Every aspect of our interior common rooms and suites as well as the outdoor grounds is intended to make our residents feel like they are in a true “home.”  From beautiful, private suites that are just waiting for your personal furnishings, delicious three meals a day served restaurant-style, activities galore or companionship; we provide a lovely home.  Please contact us with any questions you may have or set up a visit to see firsthand our beautiful community.  

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.      

Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Know the Facts about Heart Disease


According to the American Heart Association, heart attack warning signs involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes (or that goes away and comes back). They describe it like an “uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.”  Signs can also include discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.  Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or lightheadedness.  As heart disease is the number one killer for both men and women in the U.S. as well as globally, it is important to know the facts and a great resource for up-to-date information is the American Heart Association’s website.   

The site has lots of current information on the causes and treatment for atherosclerosis, which is the disease that develops when plaque builds up inside the arteries.  Once plaque has built up and narrowed the arteries, it is more difficult for the blood to flow through and increases the chance of a blood clot forming that can stop blood from flowing altogether.   Atherosclerosis is one of the leading causes of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral vascular disease. 

Ischemic strokes are the most common type of strokes and occur when a blood vessel that feeds the brain is blocked (typically from a blood clot).  Hemorrhagic strokes are caused when weakened blood vessels rupture.  There are two types of weakened blood vessels that are typically responsible: aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).   

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is not pumping blood as effectively as it should, and thus, not meeting the body’s blood and oxygen needs.  It is one of the most common causes of hospitalization in adults 65 years and older.  Treatment includes medications, surgery and lifestyle changes.  If left untreated, the problem can worsen.     

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

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. 

Source:heart.org/HEARTORG/Caregiver/Resources/WhatisCardiovascularDisease/What-is-Cardiovascular-Disease_UCM_301852_Article.jsp#

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Answers to FAQ Regarding Our Assisted Living Community


At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, we offer 55 beautiful, all-inclusive private suites for assisted living in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Our monthly rental fee is based on square footage as well as the location within the building and view, and is designed for seniors 62 years and older.  

If you are worrying about getting the level of care that you need in our community, don’t.  Before you even move in, you will sit down with our Wellness Director, who is also a licensed nurse, to discuss your current health and review your medical history to determine the type of care you need.  We offer five levels of care that provide assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) as well as various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical that are priced a la carte.    

During our assessment, we will discuss your personal preferences and normal routines so we can put together a care plan that is customized for you.  And again, don’t worry about things changing after you are a resident, as we regularly re-evaluate what you need to accommodate the changes. 

Also if you are wondering, couples are welcome at MorningStar at Jordan and can share a private suite surrounded by their own, familiar possessions.   Or if you would like, you are welcome to share a suite with a close friend or relative (must be of the same sex).  We also offer respite care for up to 30 days, or a “trial stay” for as short as a week or up to a full month. 

It is our privilege to serve seniors and we foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.  Furthermore, while rooted in Judeo-Christian beliefs, we welcome all faiths among our residents and team members. 

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.