See MorningStar of Billings Firsthand – Take a Tour!

MorningStar of Billings is extremely proud of our community starting with our unpretentious, loving and homey environment.  Outdoors we are surrounded by beautiful landscaping that encourages residents and their families to get out and take daily strolls around the grounds.  Residents also benefit from a whole host of resort-style amenities as well as wellness programs and activities.  Lastly the best part of MorningStar is our dedicated team who has a felt calling to serve and see seniors as heroes.  

To get the real feel of our lovely community, we encourage you to schedule a tour by visiting our website and follow the “Schedule a Tour” link to our online form.  We will get back to you as soon as possible.  If you let us know your priorities, we will tailor your tour to make sure those are addressed and ask that you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit.  If you care to join us for lunch, please allow 90 minutes for your tour in order to enjoy a leisurely meal.  Let us know if you intend to do lunch when you set up the appointment.  

The A Place for Mom’s website, which is the largest assisted living referral service, offers some tips on what to look for when taking a tour of a senior living community.  One of their suggestions includes “following your nose.”  In other words does the place smell and look clean and fresh?  Also ask about housekeeping and laundry services and what are the costs? 

While you are there, look in at any activities going on in the community.  Do the staff and residents look like they are enjoying themselves (before you visit us, take a look at MorningStar of Billings’ monthly calendars online)?  Additionally, ask about the level of personal care provided as well as about our safety and security procedures.  Do not forget to look at the outdoor spaces.  Finally, A Place for Mom suggests that you think about whether you or your loved one would be happy living there, and in the end, trust your instinct and follow your heart.   

Please visit MorningStar of Billings’ website to learn more about our gorgeous independent living, assisted living and memory care facility.  If you like what you see, go ahead and schedule a tour.  

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care facility.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/tips-for-touring-assisted-living

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s Unique Approach to Memory Care

Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating for the person and their family.  All of one’s carefully laid plans are cast aside as their future takes a much different path.    

MorningStar at Bear Creek is an assisted living dementia care community in Colorado Springs designed by specialists in senior interiors, the award-winning firm of Thoma-Holec Design.  Beyond the gorgeous natural surroundings of the Rocky Mountains, our community is conveniently located near medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants.  On-site amenities include beautiful common areas for gathering, bistro, fitness room, sensory room, and secure courtyards, patios and strolling paths.

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

We also consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey.  Our unique approach to memory care is called Lavender Sky, which is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of memory loss.  Additionally as we believe that many of the adverse behaviors associated with dementia are often side effects of antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have less than 10% of our residents on any of these types of drugs.

Every aspect of our memory care is designed to address the needs of our residents including 24/7 compassionate Care Mangers, wellness programs and activities that will stimulate and calm as needed.  Even our meals are designed with our most tender residents’ need in mind and will be as good to look at as they are to eat.     

Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.  To ensure the comfort of our residents, our 48 suites are offered in a choice of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.  We look forward to meeting future Bear Creek residents and their families. 

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 within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Misconceptions About Alzheimer’s Disease

There are many misconceptions about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  As traumatizing as it is for a family to learn a loved one has Alzheimer’s, it is also important to sort through the various truths and myths regarding the disease.    

One mistake many people make when they or a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is to think their life is over.  In reality, a person can live a productive life for many years.  Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important and should include a nutrient-rich diet and routine exercise.  Experts also note it is important to stay socially connected and engage in activities that challenge the brain.  As medication is more helpful in the earlier stages, getting a proper diagnosis is vital.     

People also fear that if a parent had Alzheimer’s, they will get it.  The facts are that “familial Alzheimer’s disease accounts for less than 5% of all cases of Alzheimer’s disease.”  Furthermore, remember Alzheimer’s is not only a disease of the elderly.  While there are many fewer cases, it does occur in people as young as their 40s and 50s.

Another common myth is the belief that dental amalgam fillings containing a small amount of mercury caused the disease.  Studies have shown no such correlation between the two.  Others believe aluminum pans are responsible, and while a few studies suggest a small possibility, most experts think the link is questionable.  

Some people think memory loss is a natural progression of aging, but the truth is while many of us experience some decline in memory, if the loss is disrupting your day-to-day life, you need to see a healthcare provider.  Another thing to remember is a diagnosis of dementia is not necessary better than being told a person has Alzheimer’s, it is just another form of the disease. 

If you or a loved one is suffering from dementia, please contact one of the area’s top assisted living dementia care communities.  MorningStar at Bear Creek takes a holistic approach that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website for more.   

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 within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Sources: alz.org/news/2018/senate-takes-bold-steps-in-fight-against-alzheimer

alzheimer.ca/en/Home/About-dementia/Alzheimer-s-disease/Myth-and-reality-about-Alzheimer-s-disease

Help Prevent a Fall

Falls are one of the most common reasons why elderly adults seek emergency care.  In fact the National Institute on Aging (NIA) reports. “More than one in three people age 65 years or older falls each year.”  Moreover they add that the risk of falling and fall-related problems rises with age. However, they say this is no reason to avoid being active, and there are a few things you can do to help prevent a fall. 

Seniors need to try and stay physically active and to follow an appropriate exercise plan.  Regular exercise can increase your strength, and improve your muscle tone (be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise).  Even mild weight-bearing exercises such as climbing stairs or walking can help to slow down osteoporosis (bone loss). 

Another way to reduce your risk of a fall is to limit the amount of alcohol you drink as even a small amount can affect your balance and reflexes.  Also use a walker or cane if you are unsteady on your feet.  In addition be sure to wear the proper footwear - non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled or lace-up shoes.   Take extra care when walking on wet or icy surfaces. 

Do keep in mind several health conditions including diabetes and heart disease as well as problems with your thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels can affect your balance and increase your risk of a fall.  The same warning applies to medications that cause you to feel dizzy or to experience periods of sleepiness.

  

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s goal is to be one of the best retirement communities Peoria and Glendale offers, and we consider seniors to be heroes who deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.  Our gorgeous community was built to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety.  We encourage you to visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

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 one of the finest retirement communities Peoria and the surrounding area has to offer.

Source: nia.nih.gov//health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

Hear What Family Members Say About MorningStar at Bear Creek

The staff at MorningStar at Bear Creek feels privileged to serve our very special residents. As our Wellness Director, Amber Chaney explains, “God has called me to serve seniors, as they teach me how to appreciate life and to overcome challenges.”  This respect for our residents is what motivates us to lovingly provide our unique brand of dementia care and is why we feel honored to get positive affirmation from families of our residents regarding the care of their loved one.

We recently heard from someone whose family member suffers from a traumatic brain injury. She writes about the extraordinary care he receives and how everyone takes an interest and tries to develop a relationship with him.   She goes on to say “the staff even tries to share humor with him. They work to engage him.  His quality of life is far better at MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek than at anywhere else since his health issues began.”

As we know, facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s alone can be daunting, which is why we feel Bear Creek is here to also provide support for the families of our residents.  This makes the following review of our community especially gratifying as she says, ““MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek is a phenomenal facility. The staff has been fabulous. They are very kind to my mother, to me and to my family. My Mom acknowledges that they are sweet to her. They give her hugs and they are loving with her. They have been very responsive to me. If I call in, I get a return call quickly.”

Our senior living community is dedicated to providing individualized memory care to residents with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar at Bear Creek offers 48 suites that are designed to provide a secure setting yet allow residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  We end our post with another quote from a family member of a resident who says, “I guess if I had to summarize my thoughts about MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek, it would simply be that I trust them. That is a good feeling to have.”  

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our unique approach to dementia care.  

Independent Living at MorningStar of Billings Offers a Carefree Lifestyle

Independent living can be a refreshing change of lifestyle.  In fact according to A Place for Mom, “Most seniors who have moved to assisted living or independent living communities report that they prefer life at their new home to living alone.”

Today’s senior living communities such as MorningStar of Billings offer the benefit of predictable budgeting, built-in companionship, and great food that they no longer have to cook. Instead, our residents enjoy a fine dining experience every day of the week. Independent living also means you no longer have the worry of maintaining a home, and as we provide scheduled transportation, you can rely on us to do the driving.  Our independent living suites are equipped with a kitchen for when you feel like preparing a meal on your own and we also offer housekeeping services.

Moreover, as a resident of MorningStar you have the peace of mind knowing that people are around if you should need them as each unit has an emergency call system and a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom.  We also offer a laundry and linen service, and we are pet friendly. 

MorningStar of Billings’ 72 independent living suites include a variety of one bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Your suite fee includes basic cable TV and utilities, daily meals and the chance to participate in a whole host of wellness programs and activities. 

In addition, MorningStar of Billings also offers 32 free-standing cottage homes with attached garages for independent living.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community and our hospitality and care team who feel honored to serve seniors.

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/why-seniors-prefer-senior-living-communities/

MorningStar at Arrowhead Offers a “5 Star” Dinning Experience

As one of the best retirement communities Peoria/Glendale area has to offer, MorningStar at Arrowhead understands the important of gathering together as a community to “break bread” each day.  We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.” 

We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why food is prepared largely from scratch and features the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced.  MorningStar’s meals are prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, Isaiah White. 

As a resident, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as the one we recently enjoyed at Easter. Residents were encouraged to reserve the seating of their choice for this special meal and of course family members were welcome.  Also, Chef White modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes.  Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead also believes that nutrient-rich ingredients can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health.  This is why we prepare meals using BrainWise super foods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts and other foods high in Omega 3 fats. 

For our memory care residents, food is as much about Community as it is about Nutrition. To encourage appetites, our team members sit and share meals with residents and many are served “family style” as they are in private homes.  Much of our food is modified out of respect for residents’ somewhat compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.

 

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 one of the finest retirement communities Peoria and the surrounding area offers.

Improve Your Health with Super Foods

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common form of heart disease and causes a narrowing or complete blockage of the arteries.  This can result in angina or a tightness and discomfort in the chest as arteries are not getting enough blood to the heart, which must work harder.  As time goes on, CAD can cause heart failure or an irregular heartbeat. 

Recent studies report turmeric, a seasoning that enhances the flavor of food, may also be beneficial to your heart.  Research suggests turmeric may help to reduce a person’s total cholesterol as well as the levels of bad cholesterol known as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) in the blood.  By reducing the oxidation of LDL, turmeric may help reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Another benefit of turmeric is it is believed to help calm inflammation in the body as its essential oils and curcumin display a wide spectrum of antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and other anti-inflammatory properties.  Turmeric may also offer a natural protection against Alzheimer’s disease as curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and work toward preventing or slowing the progression of nervous-system related diseases. 

Acai berries are another nutrient-dense super food loaded with antioxidants, which may be good for our heart and brain.  High in fat and low in sugar, studies has shown acai may decrease the total and LDL cholesterol in animals, and researchers believe it may do the same for humans.  Other studies show the plant compounds in acai may also boost brain function and protect our brains from damage as we age.  Current research points to improvement in the memory of rats. 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we specialize in providing residents with holistic, loving assisted living dementia care.  Our entire team and wellness programs are focused on finding ways to stimulate and enhance our residents’ quality of life.  This includes providing meals created with BrainWise foods such as such as acai berries, turmeric, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.   Visit our website to learn more. 

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 within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Source: healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-acai-berries

Walking for Exercise has Many Benefits for Seniors

Experts agree that walking is beneficial to seniors’ health as it can stop bone mass loss, strengthen leg and abdominal muscles, and improve circulation by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for heart disease.  Walking can also lead to weight loss or maintain your weight, help you sleep better, increase your mental sharpness, and improve balance and stability.  It can even increase your lifespan.  However if you have not exercised in a while, doctors recommend you start slowly and only gradually increase your distance and pace.

If you let your health care provider know you are going to start walking, they can help you determine a safe starting point.  From the onset you may only be able to walk a short distance, but over time, you will be able to go farer and should start noticing benefits fairly quickly.  Additionally experts say even if you need a cane or a walker to safely move about, don’t let that stop you from walking, just take it with you.  Also wear properly fitted comfortable shoes that provide good arch support.   If you have foot problems, talk to your doctor about orthopedic shoes. 

Remember do not overexert yourself.  Walk at a safe pace and keep in mind that the most important thing is to just get started.  For your safety, tuck your cell phone into a pocket that you can easy get to if the need arises and stay hydrated.  To help keep you motivated, walk with a buddy or join a walking group. 

At MorningStar of Billings, we wholeheartedly agree that walking is great exercise for seniors and we have walking paths for our independent living and assisted living residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful senior living community, activities and programs, and our wide range of amenities. 

Please consult your health care provider before starting any type of exercise.

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About MorningStar

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar at Arrowhead is one of four MorningStar communities in the Phoenix area.

MorningStar Senior Living recently celebrated our 15th anniversary and we attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to a mission of servant-leadership.  Right from the beginning, Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger began MorningStar based on the following three mission statements:

·         Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics

·         Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence

·         Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we recognize our mission is advanced by team members who hold true to our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors and help us create the kind of culture we envision building – a Family for Life.   In addition we are a company committed to investing our time and talents in charitable projects close to home and around the world. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead consists of 60 private assisted living suites and 25 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Visit our website to learn more about the many amenities and services offered by our exceptional community. 

  

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. Located on the north side of Glendale AZ, MorningStar at Arrowhead offers residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with inviting common areas and beautiful contemporary décor.  Call to schedule a visit to the finest senior living in the area.

MorningStar at Bear Creek has Caregivers with a Felt Calling to Serve

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a specialized, individualized dementia care community.  With 48 suites, we offer a selection of four floor plans including two variations of studio apartments as well as one- and two-bedroom options.  Our community has a reputation as one of the top Alzheimer homes in the Colorado Springs area.  We know this would not be possible without a team of extraordinary caregivers.

These remarkable individuals all share a felt calling to serve and are the kind of people who do the right thing even when no one is watching.  We are proud of the fact that our team selection starts with heart; and we seek people who want to perfect the art of anticipating needs and are willing to go the extra mile.  Together we know that serving seniors – at its best – is love in action! 

Everyone at MorningStar at Bear Creek, regardless of their position, goes through our proprietary brand Service Excellence initiative known as “Radiance,” which promotes an attitude of selflessness.  It embodies the way we deliver service (like light a beam of light), and its precepts are reiterated daily during our group Huddle.  Radiance’s loving grace permeates the way we speak to our residents, their families and fellow team members and allows the love beneath our roof to shine through.   

As dementia care specialists, we feel privileged to walk alongside our residents and their families on this unexpected journey, and invite you to visit our website to learn more about our unique approach to dementia care.  Our beautiful community is truly home to our residents and we recommend setting up a tour to experience the loving atmosphere.  We look forward to meeting your family.  

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in Alzheimer homes with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Colorado Springs.

Beautiful Private Suites at MorningStar of Fort Collins

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we are committed to providing residents with a “true home” and offer 55 stylish, private assisted living suites.  Additionally, we have 24 secure suites devoted to individualized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases.  Our graciously-appointed senior care community is in the southeast side of the city, and convenient to hospitals, banks, shopping, restaurants and grocery stores.

One look at our website and you will see that MorningStar of Fort Collins is indeed a beautiful, special place.  Right from the beginning, we worked to ensure our community would be a comfortable place for our residents to enjoy carefree retirement years and have designed our entire community to cater to those needs.

All of our assisted living private suites offer high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, lighting and mini blinds; and includes a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom.  Each suite is also equipped with an emergency call system, private heating and air conditioning, and basic cable TV and utilities. We offer residents weekly housekeeping and laundry service as well as spot cleaning and daily trash removal.  To help residents feel right at home, we are pet friendly, and all you need to do is to bring your furnishings and personal items.

We encourage you to take a look at our various floor plans as they were designed for the utmost comfort.  Starting with a large two-bedroom configuration to our studios, we are certain you will feel right at home, however, please set up a tour to see for yourself why we are so proud of our gorgeous community.      

MorningStar of Fort Collins represents the very best in senior care 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 and memory care in Fort Collins.

Assisted Living May be the Best Answer

Many seniors are pleasantly surprised to discover that assisted living is not such a “terrible place” after all but rather a true home that offers many benefits.  Several studies also back up this assertion and have found that for many, a senior living community is a healthier, safer and more agreeable alternative to living alone. 

Initially it can be difficult for seniors to leave their familiar family home and often mistakenly think moving into an assisted living community will mean the end of their independence.  Actually the opposite ends up being true as when a senior receives the proper care he or she needs, they are able to lead a fuller life. 

Another reason seniors can be reluctant to make the move is they do not realize that assisted living communities of today are not anything like nursing homes.  As a resident of an assisted living community, you not only will have you own private suite but an array of care options and amenities that are designed to provide your utmost comfort and security.    

In many cases assisted living is a much better option than trying to patch together the range of services the senior needs from in-home care providers.  Furthermore, assisted living communities are already set up to accommodate those who may have mobility difficulties, and it can be expensive to retrofit a private home to make it safe enough for a senior with physical limitations.  In addition, communities such as MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arrowhead provide 24/7 care and offer residents as well as their families the peace of mind knowing help is close at hand in an emergency.  

Please see our website for contact information and to learn why assisted living or memory care may be the right decision for you or your loved one. 

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 the finest assisted living in the area.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/   

UTIs Can Go Undetected in the Elderly

If a young woman experiences burning and irritation when urinating, she visits her doctor and is most likely diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI).  However it can be a different story for elderly adults as they rarely have any of the common symptoms or discomforts associated with UTIs and may be unaware they have an infection.  Anna Treinkman, a nurse practitioner at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago and president of the National Conference of Gerontological Nurse Practitioners, explains that as we age, our immune response changes and no longer functions at optimal levels.   

  

UTIs are the body’s second most common infection and are generally easy to treat.  However in the elderly, an undetected UTI can mimic other, much more serious conditions including dementia.  “UTIs, for instance, are a leading cause of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the bloodstream.” 

UTI symptoms in the elderly can also manifest in a range of behaviors such as disorientation, agitation, confusion, dizziness and poor motor skills.  These in turn can increase the risk for falls and even result in depression or sudden urinary incontinence.  Another reason the UTI may go untreated is that the symptoms are attributed to more serious illnesses or simply to old age. 

If you suspect a UTI, a simple urinalysis can be performed to confirm the infection and get treatment started.  Most cases are cured by antibiotics within a few days to a few weeks depending on the severity of the infection and other health problems affecting the person. 

Along with medication, your doctor will recommend drinking four to six 8-ounce glasses of water a day, and may ask that you add cranberry juice or cranberry tablets to your diet.  This will help flush the infection from the system. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers the Colorado Springs area individualized, loving dementia care.  We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

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 embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our unique approach to dementia care.  

Sources: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/elderly-urinary-tract-infections

seniorliving.org/healthcare/uti/