Hearing Loss is Common in the Elderly

One of the most common conditions affecting elderly adults is hearing loss, known as presbycusis, and gradually occurs to nearly everyone.  Statistics indicate that one-third of all Americans between the ages of 65 to 74 have some hearing loss, and almost half of seniors older than 75 have difficulty hearing.   

Presbycusis typically affects both ears equally and many seniors are unaware of the fact that they have experienced hearing loss as it happens so gradually.  One primary reason for elderly hearing loss is the cumulative effect that results from the deterioration of the cochlea or other parts of the inner ear or auditory nerves.   

In some cases, health conditions more common among the elderly such as high blood pressure and diabetes can adversely affect hearing.  Furthermore, certain medications including some kinds of chemotherapy drugs also cause hearing loss.   

Another cause of hearing loss affecting individuals of any age is long-term exposure to loud noise.  In this situation, the sensory hair cells in the ear that allow us to hear are damaged, and do no grow back.  It is one of the most common occupational hazards and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports that 10 million Americans suffer from irreversible hearing damage due to noise.     

NIDCD also states that hearing problems are serious and it is important to have your hearing tested by a doctor if you are experiencing problems.  Start with your primary care physician as he/she can refer you to a specialist.  Your care may include seeing an otolaryngologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, throat, and neck.  After consultation and testing by an otolaryngologist, you may be referred to an audiologist.  They specialize in identifying and measuring the type and degree of hearing loss.  Finally they, or a hearing aid specialist, may fit you for a hearing aid if it is determined you need one.  

This post is for informational purposes and should not be used in place of the advice of your health care provider.  For any health issues, please consult your doctor. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing 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. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living in Centennial CO.

Source: nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss

An Array of Wellness Programs and Meaningful Activities

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Our holistic care is designed to affirm the dignity and value of the person within a supportive, loving atmosphere. 

MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Under a Lavender Sky, our ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore. To aid us in this quest, our Life Enrichment team provides a whole host of wellness programs and activities that help to connect with and nurture the essence of the person regardless of the level of memory loss. 

Our monthly calendar includes a variety of exercise classes appropriate for our residents’ level of fitness.  The classes start with a Sunday Stretch, to a Monday Movement, a Workout with Marcus on Tuesday, Wednesday Groove, Aerobic Thursday, Friday Fitness, and another Saturday Stretch class.  Residents are encouraged to participate in whatever capacity they are most comfortable with. 

We also offer lots of crafts throughout the month including holiday projects such as Marshmallow Shamrock Stamping, Fingerprint Four Leaf Clover Craft, and a Pot of Gold Craft in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.  Residents also had fun with in March with a variety of crafts that helped us get ready for Easter such as Egg Decorating, Stamped Easter Egg, Paper Plate Bunny, Tin Foil Easter Egg and a Bunny Banner Craft.

Additionally Bear Creek residents enjoy a range of games that not only use cognitive skills but are fun for staff and residents alike.  Examples include Alphabet Game, Sensory & Board Games, Bingo, IN2L Trivia, and more.  Furthermore, each month we have special events and programs such as performances from the School of Irish Dance Team, Paul Whitens on guitar, and Dan Garipy on piano.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website to learn more about our specialized memory care and to set up a tour.   From the moment you walk through the door, you will see why our community is a true home.    

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.

Should You Have a “Medical Power of Attorney?”

A power of attorney is simply a directive that names someone you trust to act as your agent in the event that you are unable to speak for yourself.  A medical power of attorney, also called an “advance directive,” names someone to specifically act on your behalf in regards to any medical matters.   

If you or a family member is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it is important to have a medical power of attorney.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the kinds of medical decisions covered by a power of attorney for health care includes: doctors and health care providers, types of treatment, and care facilities.  The designated medical power of attorney may also need to make some end-of-life decisions such as issuing a “do not resuscitate” (DNR) order or not consenting to a feeding tube when a person reaches the later stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.   

The website, WebMD suggests that a person entrusted to be your medical power of attorney should be someone “who is not intimidated by medical professionals and is willing to ask challenging questions,”   They also add that the person needs to be able to put aside their own feeling about a medical option and be ready to carry out your wishes.   

Drawing up a legal power of attorney for health care does not require an attorney, and if it is appropriate, the same person can be named as your financial and medical power of attorney.  As forms are state-specific, be sure to use the right form for your state.   Once you have filled it out, it will probably need to be witnessed, and in some cases may also need to be notarized.  When you have completed the process, let your family and anyone else involved in your care, including your doctor and hospital, have a copy of the form.    

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing 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. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living in Centennial CO.

Sources: 

alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-legal-documents.asp

webmd.com/palliative-care/advance-directives-medical-power-attorney 

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar

Research continues to show a strong correlation between pet ownership and a number of benefits to seniors.  Everything from helping the elderly to stay physically active, to lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, providing companionship and making depression less likely are attributed to having a pet.  In fact there are several studies that indicate that patients with heart problems do better when they are responsible for a pet.  

Not only do pets offer lots of affection and unconditional love but they can also help seniors cope with the loss of a loved one.  In an article from AgingCare.com, a New Jersey psychotherapist, Dr. Jay P. Granat, discusses some of the other intangibles that pets offer to the elderly.  He states that, "Dogs—and other pets—live very much in the here and now. They don't worry about tomorrow. And tomorrow can be very scary for an older person. By having an animal with that sense of now, it tends to rub off on people."  

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, we wholeheartedly agree that pets provide many benefits to seniors, which is why we are proud that our community is pet friendly.  Along with our residents’ pets, we also have a special “house dog” that provides companionship and warmth throughout our entire community.   

Grace, an adorable Golden Doodle, is a gentle, loving dog who is a big hit with all of our residents and staff.  Grace joined our MorningStar family in 2015 and we all agree she is the cutest, most cuddly dog in the world!  Feel free to stop by and meet our girl. 

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with a mission “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents, we encourage you to visit to see for yourself our exceptional community for independent and assisted living.

 

Sources:petsfortheelderly.org/articles.html

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

Interactive Software Designed for Seniors

MorningStar at Jordan is pleased to be able to offer our residents the revolutionary, user-friendly interactive software called “It’s Never Too Late” ® (iN2L).  This unique, person-centered technology makes it easy for anyone to use a computer, regardless of prior experience or abilities, and is designed specifically for the continuing entertainment and education of seniors.  

Simply to use, iN2L provides customized activities that are based on a person’s interest and background, which are used to enhance cognitive function, socialization and quality of life.  Also a Wii-like functionality offers interactive physical as well as cognitive activities. The personalized program allows each resident to have his or hers own “page” on the system, and is setup to display their photos, videos, stories, music, games and even websites.  The resident’s page can even be customized remotely through a family portal to give family members an opportunity to add personal updates, information and current pictures.    

With over 3,000 application and content items, the highly adaptable nature of the system makes it easy to adjust activities and content to a resident’s unique abilities and interests. 

Along with an array of brain exercises, educational and travel videos, interactive games, puzzles, word games, history, news topics and trivia, the iN2L software also offers safe and easy Internet access, email, and Skype.   

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 Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Contact us to learn more about our beautiful community and why residents are proud to call MorningStar at Jordan “home”. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing 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. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living in Centennial CO.

Source: in2l.com/ 

 

Controlling Diabetes May Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

The connection between Diabetes and Alzheimer's disease is currently being studied but is not yet completely understood.  Many, but not all, studies suggest people with diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, are at higher risk of eventually developing Alzheimer's Disease or other forms of dementia.  Controlling diabetes may help reduce your risk of cognitive decline as well as other complications of the disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states that living with diabetes can be difficult but with the right care and treatment, it can be effectively managed.  

Along with your health care provider, organizations such as the ADA and the National Institute of Health offer tips and information for coping with the disease and ways to avoid or delay complications.  Also even if you do not have the disease, it is still a good idea to education yourself to try and prevent the onset.   

The ADA recommends the following suggestions for living as healthy as possible with type 2 diabetes.  Their first recommendation is to keep your blood glucose levels under control.  Know your target range and check your levels daily or as recommended by your doctor.  In addition make the appropriate changes to your diet to not only lower your blood glucose, but to lower your risk for heart disease.  

Another important part of living with diabetes is to work to keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the normal ranges.  Many of the same lifestyle changes we do to control blood glucose can help control blood pressure.  The ADA advises that “people with diabetes keep their blood pressure below 140/80, but check with your health care professional about what target is best for you.”  Along with medications, you can lower your cholesterol by eating a healthy diet, losing weight and exercising.   

You can also manage your diabetes better if you stop smoking.  We recognize that smoking is bad for everyone but it is far worse for those with diabetes.  Finally, if you increase your physical activity, you will gain more strength and energy and be better able to manage your blood glucose as well as help to lower your blood pressure.    

This post is for informational purposes only.  Please consult your medical provider regarding any health concerns.

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.

Sources:diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/seniors/?referrer=https://www.google.com/

diabetesstopshere.org/2013/09/06/seniors-with-diabetes-take-control-of-your-health/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/diabetes-and-alzheimers/art-20046987 

Questions to Ask When Looking for Memory Care

It is typically with mixed emotions that a family comes to the realization that their loved one needs more care than they can get at home.  When this happens, there are several things to consider as you search for the best memory care.   

One of the first things you need to know is that “memory care” is committed to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Assisted living is intended for those that require some extra care with their daily living activities in order to retain their independence and live their lives safely and comfortably.     

Many assisted living communities have a separate wing devoted to memory care residents and some like MorningStar at Bear Creek is entirely memory care.  Memory care staff members should have gone through specialized training in order to understand the disease as well as to effectively care for those with dementia. 

At Bear Creek all of our team members are extensively trained to care for our tender residents and our community is uniquely designed to allow residents to freely move about to explore their surroundings.  You also will want to know the level of care the community is equipped to handle.  At Bear Creek, we care for those from the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages. 

Other questions should include how secure is the community and what is the staff/resident ratio during the day as well as at night.   In addition do residents receive regular health monitoring, is there a nurse on staff, and will there be a thorough intake process before your loved one joins the community?  Ask how meals are handled, and when will you be contacted if there is a problem.   

We encourage you to visit MorningStar at Bear Creek’s website to learn more about our loving, unique memory care community.  Also, we recommend you set up a tour to see firsthand the home-like atmosphere of Bear Creek.   

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

Health Concerns as You Age

The good news is that today’s seniors are living longer than ever before.  New data suggests that if you reach the age of 65 years old, you can expect to live on average another 20 years.  Another encouraging survey reports that as many as 41 percent of people over age 65 say that they are in very good or excellent health.   

However, experts want to remind seniors that by making some lifestyle changes, they can make their senior years even better.  Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Reynolds Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock, notes that, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet." She further adds that individuals must “make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.”  Furthermore, doctors recommend that if you are a senior coping with a chronic medical condition that a geriatrician may help you to better manage your disease and improve your quality of life.   

Arthritis, heart disease, and cancer are the three most common diseases facing seniors.  Dr. Marie Bernard, deputy director of the National Institute on Aging in Bethesda, Maryland, reports that arthritis affects almost 50 percent of those 65 and over.  Also while the severity of the disease varies, for some seniors the condition and associated pain lowers their quality of life.  If you have arthritis, experts suggest that you work closely with your doctor to develop an activity and treatment plan.     

The CDC reports that heart disease is the leading killer of adults over age 65, and that 37 percent of men and 26 percent of women 65 and older are afflicted with chronic heart disease.  Dr. Bernard advises those with heart disease to “exercise, eat well, and get a good night’s rest.”  In addition, she recommends maintaining a healthy weight.  

The third most common disease among seniors is cancer, which is the second leading cause of death in individuals over 65.  The CDC reports that 28 percent of men and 21 percent of woman over 65 are living with cancer.  They recommend that seniors get routine screenings including mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks, as many cancers detected early are treatable.   

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing 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. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living in Centennial CO.

Source: everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/    

Read the Rave Reviews from Family Members!

We think that Morningstar of Fort Collins offers the finest assisted living and memory care but you do not have to just take our word for it.  With a mission to ensure the every comfort and wellbeing of our residents, we feel honored to have so many families as well as residents express their appreciation and high regard for our community. We would like to take a moment to share a few.

One example comes from a family member of a current resident.  She wrote that each time they visit, they have been reassured their loved one is in a “top-of-the-line community” and find the staff to be professional, warm, and friendly. In addition she says, “The facility itself is beautiful with a comfortable and welcoming feel: soft with a touch of nature” and  “MorningStar senior living facility is really a home where older family members​ are well cared for.” 

We were especially gratified when a resident wrote a glowing review where she explains how happy she is living in our community.  She says, “The location is beautiful and so peaceful! The staff here is absolutely amazing and so helpful. They really take the time to connect with the residents and make this a true living community.”  She ends her review by stating that, “I absolutely recommend it every chance I get. It's not just a place - its home!” 

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we have 55 private assisted living suites.  Our gorgeous suites are available in a variety of configurations including spacious studio and one and two-bedroom floorplans with some over 800 square feet.  We have another 23 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please visit our website for more information and to set up a tour to view the area’s most trusted senior living community.   

MorningStar of Fort Collins 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 in a beautiful setting.  We invite you to schedule a tour to discover one of the area’s top senior living communities.  

Animal Therapy is Found to be Beneficial for Those with Alzheimer’s

At MorningStar at Bear Creek our unique approach to memory care is designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss.  Our team leverages the power of art, music, dance, and aromatherapy as well as uses animals to heal and comfort residents while we take into account each person’s uniqueness.    

Studies have shown that “therapy dogs and other animals can stimulate social interaction and ease agitation in dementia patients.”  However experts caution that it “takes specially trained pets to bring the full benefit of animal therapy into elder care settings.”  Animals must be matched to the right situation and to the right human, and typically dogs have been the easiest to train as they remain comfortable interacting with a variety of people.     

Therapists say that animal therapy may be beneficial to dementia patients because the person sees the animal as someone they can interact with without worry.  Animal/people relationships do not require good communication skills that can be difficult for many persons with dementia. 

In addition to encouraging social interactions and reducing agitation, animal therapy has also been shown to increase physical activity.  Many patients get pleasure from playing with a dog, taking it for a short walk or helping to groom it.  Another unexpected benefit of bringing animals and Alzheimer’s patients together is it seems to improve the person’s appetite after the animal’s visit.    

From the moment you step through MorningStar at Bear Creek’s door, you will discover a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels like a true home.  Please contact us to learn more about what sets MorningStar at Bear Creek apart from other memory care communities.    

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: everydayhealth.com/alzheimers/how-animal-therapy-helps-dementia-patients.aspx

MorningStar at Jordan offers Respite Care

At MorningStar at Jordan, we provide high-quality assisted living and memory care as well as respite care.  Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are recovering from surgery or an illness and require some day-to-day support services.  In addition communities such as ours allow recovering seniors the opportunity for socialization and meaningful activities.    

As a respite resident of MorningStar, you will receive a quiet suite and personalized care to comfortably recover your health, as well as companionship and community, which can just as important in the healing process.  Respite stays are typically 30 days or less and your spouse is welcome to join you.  Of course since our suites are subject to availability, it is important to contact us when you know you will require respite care in the foreseeable future.   

Respite or temporary care also offers a solution for seniors whose regular caregiver is taking a much needed vacation or is busy with other priorities.  However regardless of why you have come to temporarily join our community; we will make you feel right at home.   

Along with providing a fully furnished suite, our respite residents are treated to three healthy and delicious daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, 24-hour care and medication management.  In addition, you are invited to take advantage of MorningStar at Jordan’s on-going activities, entertainment and scheduled outings.   

We have our own onsite library, theatre, fitness center, general store and all-season porches as well as provide housekeeping and laundry services and group transportation.  For an additional charge, you can enjoy a private massage or visit our salon.  Contact us to learn more about our respite care services and how they can help you or your loved one to make a speedy recovery.  

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing 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. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest assisted living in Centennial CO.

Eating Heathy is Important to Individuals with Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that many people suffering from Alzheimer’s may be “overwhelmed with too many food choices, forget to eat or have difficulty with eating utensils.”   This can be a problem as we know healthy eating is especially important for those with dementia and that poor nutrition can result in weight loss and increase behavioral symptoms.   

This is why in addition to the many aspects of MorningStar at Bear Creek’s memory care; we take our residents’ nutritional concerns very seriously.  One of the things we do to encourage our tender memory care residents to eat is to make dining as much about Community as it is about nutrition.  At mealtime, team members sit with residents to help make meal time an enjoyable, shared experience.  We also regularly serve meals family-style on platters and serving bowls to prompt residents to connect with memories of meals they have eaten or prepared during their lives.  Family members are invited to join us at any time.     

We also present food on long appetizer-style plates with separate cups and bowls for individual items.  The plates are often in a variety of colors to increase the visual and mental appeal of the meal.   

As our MorningStar at Bear Creek team is extremely experienced in caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we know it is important to serve foods that taste as good as they look.  Furthermore, we understand some residents’ abilities at the table may be compromised, which is why we also serve finger foods; mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids; and easy-to-recognize balanced meals.  If the best option for your loved one is to eat pureed meat and vegetables, we offer elegant dishes that are both beautifully plated and purely delicious.   

Please visit our website to learn more about our loving memory care community.  To ensure the comfort of our residents, our 48 suites are offered in a choice of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. 

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: foodservicedirector.com/ideas-innovation/health-wellness/articles/4-ways-memory-care-dining-has-gone-beyond-finger-foods#page=3