Our Service is Guided by “Radiance”

At MorningStar of Billings, we attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership.  We feel extremely blessed to have a team of individuals working for us who are guided by their hearts and feel privileged to serve seniors.  They are the kind of people that do the right thing even when no one is looking and willingly go the extra mile to help our residents. 

MorningStar’s care is guided through “Radiance,” our proprietary program, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light.  It forms the framework for how our service is delivered – with warmth, sincerity and depth!  Additionally our Radiance program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

Once a team member is hired, they are trained in Radiance. and it is reiterated and strengthened each day during our daily “Huddle.”   We feel Radiance is lived out in a variety of way throughout our community, and helps us to create an atmosphere of love, compassion and care as well as service professionalism.

For assisted living residents, our services include around-the-clock Care Managers, on site and at the ready, to ensure your safety as they meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs. Other services include a full-time licensed nurse (also on call 24/7). Certified Med Care Managers, scheduled health and care reviews, and more.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, which is devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we offer all-inclusive pricing.  Please check with us regarding a limited time offer for a rate freeze on our assisted living and memory care suites. 

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.  

Visiting Someone with Dementia

If you have wondered how to make the most of your time when you visit a relative or friend suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, take some tips from the experts.  They have the experience to help your visit go more smoothly.    

Their first tip is to adjust to your loved one as they are now and do not expect to have the same type of conversations with them as you once did.  As dementia care specialist Vivian Green Korner explains, “Conversations may become less intellect to intellect and more emotion to emotion.”

Another thing, focus on what the person still has rather than focusing on what they have lost.  They may enjoy stories about the past as well as love hearing music that reminds them of when they were young.  Anthony Cirillo, president of The Aging Experience and host of the Virtual Summit for Caregivers, says that, “Music activates something in people no matter how advanced their dementia.”  Also it may be helpful to bring photos, books or even tasty treats to share with your loved one. 

In addition don’t waste time asking a lot of questions that may just confuse the person, instead, just live in the moment.  Talk about things you are seeing such as the color of the leaves on a tree outside the window or a pretty picture in the room.  If the person appears to be getting agitated, suggest getting up and taking a little walk as often a change of scenery can help to change their mood. 

Remember it is important to make eye contact as a lot of your communication with the person will be non-verbal.  Experts also suggest touching a person before you start to speak as touch is a powerful communicator especially as their verbal skills are starting to diminish.   

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a senior living community devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  As dementia specialists, we understand the disease and provide care that treats the individual with the dignity and respect they deserve.  Please see our website for more. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with a mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are committed to creating a true home for residents. Contact us to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: caring.com/articles/tips-visiting-someone-dementia

Answers to FAQs Available on the MorningStar Website

MorningStar at Arrowhead recognizes that moving to assisted living can be a difficult step for families, which is why we strive to provide all the details regarding our community beforehand so seniors and their family can make an informed decision.  On our website, we have a lot of information about our Arrowhead community as well as resources from MorningStar Senior Living regarding particulars on the company and our many services and programs.  

One good source of information is to take a look at the FAQs.  Here you will likely discover answers to your questions (if not, please email or give us a call) and much more.  We start by providing families with a little bit of history on MorningStar such as the fact that we were founded in Denver in 2003 on the principal that it is a “privilege to serve, and our pleasure to love all beneath our roof.”  While we are rooted in in Judeo-Christian beliefs, MorningStar welcomes all faiths among our residents and team members.  

If you were wondering if there is an age requirement to move into MorningStar, the answer is yes.  You must be at least 62 years of age to move into our assisted living or memory care community.

Another answer to a good question is how we will determine the level of care you need to ensure your comfort and safety.  This happens early on and is a part of the move-in process.  You and your family will meet with our Wellness Director who will assess your current health, and review your medical history to ascertain how we can best meet your needs. At this time, we also discuss your preferences and normal routines, and together we will develop an individualized care plan.   Furthermore, your plan will be regularly re-evaluated to coincide with your changing needs.  Please see our website for more information.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to our exceptional community.

The Many Benefits of Walking for Older Adults

There have been a number of studies done that document the benefits of walking for older adults, and it is considered by many experts to be the safest and best exercise for the elderly.  Not only can it be performed at a low or moderate intensity and is easy on the joints, but it is also easy to start as it does not require any special equipment.

  

To get the most benefit out of walking, it is recommended you do it regularly.  The heart-healthy exercise can improve cardiovascular health and has been linked to lower risks of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and strokes.  Furthermore researchers   have found that “even small amounts of walking each week have been shown to reduce these risks around 15% to 20%.”  Daily walking regimens have “shown a 30% to 50% reduction in participants’ risk of cardiac arrest.”   

Other benefits of walking include stopping or decreasing bone mass loss as well as strengthening leg and abdominal muscles, which can improve balance and stability.  Walking can also lead to weight loss or help maintain weight if needed.  Seniors who regularly walk have shown an improvement in their sleep patterns and an increase in mental sharpness.  In addition it assists with joint support by moving the fluid within our joints/cartilage.  It can also help make you feel happier.  

At MorningStar of Billings, we believe in providing seniors with opportunities to stay fit and keep moving.  Our daily calendar includes a variety of physical activities such as Sit and be Fit, and Gentle Yoga Movements in a Chair.  We also have lots of other activities to engage residents including crafts, sing-a-longs, games, movies and much more.  Please visit our website to learn more about Billings’ best independent living, assisted living and memory care.  

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.   

Source: thecaregiverspace.org/8-science-backed-health-benefits-to-walking-for-seniors/   

Help Prevent Falls with the Right Shoes

Surprisingly, preventing falls can be as simple as wearing the right shoes at the right time.  Dr. Carol Frey, director of the Foot and Ankle Center at Orthopedic Hospital in Los Angeles, conducted a year-long study regarding safe footwear for seniors.  Her research showed that in many cases shoes that are generally considered “safer footwear” were often to blame for falls that caused injuries. 

The study involved 185 men and women over the age of 55.  With participants 65 or older, shoes were often to blame for falls.  Dr. Frey found that “bulky rubber soles worn on carpet can be hazardous while athletic shoes that are flat or worn are dangerous on wet surfaces.''  Of the group that fell, 28% said that their footwear caught or dragged on the floor or was too slippery.  Her recommendation is for older adults to consider the walking surface to best determine the type of shoe they should wear. 

When buying footwear, seniors should select low-heeled shoes that fit well and provide support.  A walking shoe with a light rubber sole is a good everyday choice as it provides both traction and support.  Avoid shoes with a heavy sole or rubber over the toes as they can stick to carpet and cause falls.  Other things to keep in mind are to avoid loose-fitting shoes or slippers, shoes with worn outer soles or with smooth leather or plastic soles.  A beveled heel helps to prevent slipping and a broad flared heel maximizes contact with the ground.  Also shoes with laces hold the shoe on the foot while walking and textured soles prevent slipping.

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 at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with a mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are committed to creating a true home for residents. Contact us to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sources: nytimes.com/1998/02/24/science/when-the-elderly-fall-shoes-may-be-to-blame.html  

caring-for-aging-parents.com/shoes-for-elderly-women.html 

The Decision to Move to an Assisted Living Community

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we know families often go through a range of emotions once they realize their loved one needs more daily help in order to ensure their comfort and safety.  Furthermore, moving into an assisted living community is often precipitated by a major life change, which is why we have a commonsense decision guide available on our website to help families navigate through the process.

One thing to consider before making any decision is to think about what you are trying to solve, and not just next year, but with an eye to the next 5 to 10 years.  Also keep in mind that the concept of “assisted living” is only a few decades old and is intended to feel like a home – not an institution such as nursing homes of old.  Today’s assisted living is based on the European model and is a new paradigm in wellness and engagement.

Reading through our decision guide, you will find information on the things families should look for in terms of determining whether their loved one needs more help.  It talks about safety issues such as recent falls and balance problems, forgetfulness that could lead to a dangerous situation like leaving the stove-top on and driving mishaps.  The guide also cautions families to notice things like weight loss, poor hygiene, and failing eyesight. 

Additionally, MorningStar has tips to help you narrow down your choices of assisted living communities.  Along with considering location, price, and amenities, one of our most important tips is to take a tour of the community or communities you are most interested in.  Beyond the website and all the promotional materials, a tour provides an up close and personal look at the place you or your loved one is considering making their new home.  On our home page, we have a convenient link to an online form to set up a tour with us.   

MorningStar of Fort Collins represents the very best in senior living with a mission “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is one built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting team members with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a tour to discover the finest assisted living in Fort Collins.

Sun Protection is Still Important for Seniors

Now that summer is here, it is important to apply sunscreen if you are going to be outside for any length of time regardless of your age.  Sometimes seniors mistakenly think since they have never had skin cancer, they probably are not going to get it now.  However the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) warns that older adults have already sustained decades of damage from the sun, which increases the risk of developing skin cancer.

The SCF explains that, “Suffering just five sunburns over your lifetime more than doubles your chances of developing melanoma, and each successive tan or sunburn raises the risks further.”  While it is not known how much damage results in skin cancer, we do know it is important to continue to protect our skin.  

In addition statistics show skin cancer to be on the rise.  Scientists speculate one reason for this is the earth’s ozone layer has depleted, which is allowing increased levels of UV-B to reach the Earth.  This compounds the negative effects of spending too much time in the sun and can cause the development of wrinkles and premature aging skin.  Wearing sunscreen can also help prevent facial brown spots and skin discolorations as well as reduce the appearance of facial red veins and blotchiness. 

The experts stress that sun precautions for seniors is fairly easy.  To start with, stay out of tanning beds.  Use effective sun protection and avoid spending time outdoors between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are the most intense.  Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sun-safe clothing and UV-filtering sunglasses.  Sunscreen should be SPF 15 or higher, and if you intend to be out for longer periods, use a water resistance 30+ SPF.  Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming. 

There is no need to worry about a lack of Vitamin D if you always wear sunscreen.  Doctors report you get your vitamin D requirement of 600 IU or 15mcg per day with normal daily outdoor activities of five to 30 minutes two times a week.   

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 at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please schedule a visit to experience firsthand our beautiful community.

Caregivers for Loved Ones with Dementia Need Support

The Alzheimer’s Association states that the number of adults suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is increasing and there is now an estimated 5.3 million Americans with the disease.  They add that every 66 seconds someone comes down with the disease.  Among that number includes approximately 200,000 people who are under the age of 65 who have younger-onset Alzheimer's.   Experts also predicts that as we continue to live longer, the number of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s will  grow to 7.1 million adults by 2025.  Right now it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and currently, cannot be prevented or cured.

These sobering statistics mean that more families are finding themselves in the situation of having a family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  For those who are family caregivers, the Alzheimer's Association found it can take an overwhelming toll on them both physically and emotionally.  Their studies show that close to 60 percent of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers “rate their stress level as high or very high.”  Approximately 40 percent of family caregivers suffer from depression and required healthcare services related to the emotional and physical toll of their caregiving.

Experts recommend that if you are family caregiver that you reach out for help from a variety of sources including relatives, friends, and local community organizations.  Caregiver support groups can also be helpful as you can connect with other who are dealing with the same problems.  Respite care and day care centers can also give you some relief from the responsibility and difficulties of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. 

Another solution is to contact MorningStar at Bear Creek and learn about our experienced and compassionate memory care.  Our community is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please see our website for more information about the loving approach we take to memory care.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our 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. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best memory care in Colorado Springs.

Sources: alz.org/facts/overview.asp#prevalence

familydoctor.org/caring-for-a-relative-who-has-dementia/

Fun Activities for Residents as well as Families & Friends

At the MorningStar of Billings senior living community we know how to have fun.  Along with a large range of everyday activities, we also host a variety of special events that are open to our residents’ families and friends. 

One example was our annual “Uplifting Day” in June that raised money to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.  Throughout the day, residents, team members, and families joined together to help wash cars, raffle baskets of goodies and eat delicious purple desserts!   

In July we had a blast proudly wearing our red, white and blues during our 4^th of July Independence Party.  Residents and team members alike enjoyed the day, which included taking selfies in funky USA glasses and stuffing ourselves on a yummy BBQ buffet!

Now that August is here it is time to pull out your Hawaiian shirts as our Luau is returning on Saturday, August 18^th.  We ask all residents to RSVP by Monday, August 13 to let us know whether you plan to attend and if you will bring guests.  Each resident is allowed a maximum of four guests.  As it is MorningStar’s 15^th anniversary, we also plan to have some extra fun activities leading up the Luau.  

Also if you or a loved one is looking for memory care or assisted living options in the area, you will want to know about MorningStar of Billings’ new offer that allows incoming residents to lock in the cost of their rent.  This limited time offer is good on a suite within our memory care or on an assisted living suite and gives residents the security of knowing what their monthly living costs will be.  In memory care, the offer is an all-inclusive Lifetime Rate that includes the rent of the suite as well as individualized care.  In assisted living we are offering a Two-year Rate Freeze on the rent only.  Please call us today for details and availability. 

   

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.      

MorningStar at Arrowhead Offers the Highest Quality Senior Living

With beautiful decor by the award-winning firm of Thoma-Holec Design, MorningStar at Arrowhead has common areas and spacious suites that provide seniors with a lifestyle that is second to none.  Our community offers the highest quality assisted living and respite care as well as compassionate memory care within a warm and loving environment.  We are located on the north side of Glendale AZ near Peoria in the popular residential neighborhood of Arrowhead.

When you visit our website, we encourage you to take a look at our beautiful photo gallery that shows off our beautiful spaces.  Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day.    Looking at the stunning pictures, can you imagine yourself sitting in our attractive dining room eating meals served restaurant-style and expertly prepared by a professional chef or spending a morning getting pampered in our onsite salon?

MorningStar at Arrowhead has created the perfect physical setting as well as put together a team of devoted caregivers that feel honored to serve to provide our residents with a “true home.”  Our assisted living gives residents the freedom to enjoy their retirement years as we see to it that all of their needs are met. 

For families who are struggling with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of memory loss, MorningStar’s specialized care offers you peace of mind knowing your loved one is getting the best available care.  We invite you to set up a tour as nothing beats seeing our home in person. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please schedule a visit to experience firsthand our beautiful community.

Type 2 Diabetes Can be Controlled

A recently published report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than 100 million adults in the U.S. are now living with diabetes or prediabetes.  As of 2015, 30.3 million Americans (9.4 percent of the U.S. population) have diabetes and another 84.1 million have prediabetes.  Rates of diabetes increase as people age, and among those 65 years and older, 25 percent have diabetes.

That means more than one-third of U.S. adults have prediabetes, which is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes.   The CDC warns that if prediabetes is left untreated and steps are not taken to make healthier lifestyle choices as many as 15 to 30 percent of those people will have type 2 diabetes within five years.  Furthermore, one of their biggest concerns is the fact that the majority of people with prediabetes do not know it. 

While diabetes may be a common disease, self-management is a very important aspect of how well someone lives with the disease.  Organizations like the CDC and the American Diabetes Association strongly encourage anyone with the disease to get educated and learn about the latest medical therapies and treatment options.  

Your lifestyle can make a difference in managing or reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes including adopting healthier eating habits, increasing your physical activity, and maintaining or losing a modest amount of weight.   If you already have diabetes, these changes can help control the severity of the disease.

If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, are overweight or lead a sedentary lifestyle, you may be at risk for developing diabetes.  The American Diabetes Association warns that many of the symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed but early detection and treatment of the disease is important and can decrease the risk of developing complications.  They recommend discussing any concerns with your doctor. 

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 at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our 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. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best memory care in Colorado Springs.

Source:

cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p0718-diabetes-report.html

Eye Care Recommendations from the Experts

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that early signs of disease or changes in vision can start years before they become a real problem.  This is why they recommend “adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease should receive a baseline comprehensive eye evaluation at age 40.” 

They also advise that individuals without any risk factors should have an eye exam by an ophthalmologist every 2 to 4 years.  People age 55 to 64 without risk factors should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 1 to 3 years.  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.

Getting regular eye exams and being aware of any changes to your vision is important as many age-related eye problems do not show early symptoms.  Furthermore, common health problems including diabetes and hypertension can cause eye-related issues as well as some medications. 

A thorough eye exam will check your visual acuity and peripheral vision, coordination of eye muscles and the pupils’ response to light and color testing.  The ophthalmologist also examines the interior and back of the eye along with the inside and outside of the eyelid.  In addition, eye fluid pressure is measured with a tonometer, which blows a puff of air onto the eye.  The test is used to check for glaucoma and other diseases.

You will additionally be monitored for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) disease.  This test uses special instruments to examine the back of your eye to detect and monitor conditions affecting the macula.  

Since many eye conditions do not develop symptoms until they are quite advanced, it is important to follow the eye exam recommendations.   Also, the risk of glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration increases as we get older. 

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 Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please schedule a visit to experience firsthand our beautiful community.

Source: aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/eye-exams-101

Learn More About Osteoporosis

While one in four women 65 years and older (one in two women over the age of 80) have osteoporosis, it is not a disease that only affects women.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one in ten men older than 80 also have some level of bone loss. 

 

So what is osteoporosis?  Experts state that the disease is the gradual weakening of the skeletal system and causes bones to become weak and brittle.  This results in an increased risk of fractures from falls or mild stresses as the bones thin (a decrease of bone mass and density) and become depleted of bone calcium and protein.

To diagnose the disease, patients are screened using a dual X-ray absorptiometry, also called a DXA or DEXA.  Doctors use the test to measure the bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine, hip or total body to help evaluate a person’s risk of fracture.  The noninvasive scan is painless and usually takes only 10 or 20 minutes.

While there are risk factors associated with a greater likelihood of developing osteoporosis, some people develop it without any of them.  Gender, family history, age, body size and ethnicity are risk factors you cannot change but there are other things you can change.   Bone loss can be caused by a lifetime diet that is low in calcium and vitamin D as well as the long-term use of several medications such as glucocorticoids. Lack of exercise, cigarette smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol can also lead to osteoporosis.

Many doctors would like to see more adults tested at a younger age so if there are any signs of the disease, it can be identified early and treatment and lifestyle changes made years before bones become brittle.  Right now bone mineral density screening is recommended for all postmenopausal women and for men age 50 years and older based on risk factors and on the advice of their health care provider.   

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 at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our 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. We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best memory care in Colorado Springs.

Sources:

agingcare.com/articles/an-overview-of-osteoporosis-133147.htm

webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20150813/1-in-4-senior-women-in-us-has-osteoporosis-cdc#1