Why Does Our Hair Turn Gray?

 

 

While some people seem to not turn gray until an advanced age, most of us see our first gray hair sometime in our thirties. Experts say in time, everyone’s hair will turn gray, and with each decade after age 30, your chance of going gray increases by 10 to 20 percent. For those blessed with a very long lifespan, their hair will most-likely go completely white.

The process is gradual as each strand of hair a follicle produces remains the same color it starts out as. For instance a strand of blond hair stays blonde regardless of how long it grows (we typically keep a strand for up to 3 ½ years). Gray hair and eventually white hair is caused as our follicles produce less and less color as we age.

However, not all gray hair is a result of “age-related graying.” In some cases, experts say stress may play a role in how quickly someone grays. They point out that most likely it is not the stress itself that makes hair go gray but rather it triggers “a common condition called telogen effluvium, which causes hair to shed about three times faster than normal.” So if you are the right age, many of the new hairs that grow in may be gray.

When very young people start to turn gray, it can be a cause for concern. Premature hair graying (PHG) can be from a vitamin B12deficiency, thyroid disease, or smoking as well as vitiligo, which causes melanocytes (cells at the base of hair follicles that produce the hair’s color) to be lost or destroyed. Still researchers say turning gray is mostly influenced by the genes we inherit from our parents and we can get a better idea of when we will turn gray by looking at past generations.

MorningStar at Arrowhead is dedicated to providing one of the finest retirement communities Glendale, AZ offers, and we know the best care starts from the heart. Our loving home promotes a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community and offers an array of comprehensive care services and amenities. From scheduled transportation, 5-Star dining to routine care planning reviews, activities and wellness programs, we are building a MorningStar family. Visit our website to learn more.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arrowhead provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/causes-gray-hair

Fall Prevention for Seniors

 

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls. As we age, medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall. Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving. The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving. To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor. Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives. It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else. Also talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you. Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention. Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed. Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home. Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance. Install grab bars and railings where needed.

At the MorningStar at Bear Creek memory care assisted living community, our beautiful home is devoted to residents with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our extensive experience and training have given us a deep understanding of the disease, and we are proud to be designated as one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” Please 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.” 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 for more information about Colorado Springs’ finest memory care assisted living.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

Compassionate Service Delivered with Warmth & Sincerity

 

 

MorningStar of Billings is proud to be one of the top senior living facilities in Montana. We attribute our success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership. To help us accomplish these lofty goals, we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts and a true love for seniors.

Our founding principles are based on “casting a new light” on senior living and treating each resident with the utmost respect and dignity. We belief the human capacity to grow, to learn and contribute is ageless; and we act upon the truth daily as we care for, inspire and love the residents under our roof. At MorningStar we want seniors to recognize they are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream.

We take great pride in a reputation for excellence and authenticity in both how we serve and why we serve throughout our MorningStar senior living facilities across the Western U.S. Specializing in compassionate care delivered by our distinguished team and guided by our proprietary program “Radiance,” we know the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing with others our gifts and talents, time and energy.

As more and more people are living longer and healthier lives than any other time in history (by 2055 90 million Americans will be 55+ and the number of people 75 to 85 is set to triple), Senior Living is quickly becoming a popular option for older adults. Residents appreciate predictable budgeting, resort-style amenities and services, companionship and a home where they can safely age in place.

Seniors’ wellbeing, comfort and safety are something MorningStar of Billings takes very seriously. Please contact us today to see how we can help support the seniors in your life. Use our online Virtual Assistant to inquire about pricing, set up a tour, or to ask a question. We are committed to excellence and helping seniors have better lives.

MCI is the Fine Line Between Normal Memory and Dementia

 

 

If you or a loved one is experiencing some mild memory problems or were recently diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), you may find yourself wondering what that means for the future. MCI is defined as the fine line between what we think of as normal memory or thinking and dementia. Dr. Scott M. McGinnis, an associate neurologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, clarifies it by explaining, “We diagnose dementia when a person has changes in memory and thinking that significantly interfere with functioning in usual activities.” He cites examples such as getting lost driving to familiar places or having difficulty writing a check.

MCI is diagnosed when a person has changes in their memory and thinking that goes beyond normal aging but does not qualify as full-blown dementia. Medical experts explain that MCI may be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease but are also quick to add that not all cases of MCI result in Alzheimer’s but rather may increase the person’s risk. In fact, MCI is caused by other things including medications and infections.

Doctors suggest one way to cope with MCI is to get into the habit of writing out a list of “to do’s” each day and checking it throughout the day. Some people want to know more and thus pursue medical tests that can identify if they will develop Alzheimer’s eventually, while others wish to take a more wait and see approach. Whatever your decision, medical professionals say it may be helpful to learn as much as you can about MCI as a way to help you cope.

MorningStar at Bear Creek’s goal is to provide the best memory care Colorado Springs offers, and our community was designed from the ground up to provide a safe, supportive and loving environment. As dementia care specialists, we consider it our calling, and privilege to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey. Please visit our website for more information.

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. Visit our website to learn more about the finest memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/5-ways-to-cope-with-mild-cognitive-impairment

The Gift of Time for Mom on Mother’s Day

 

The last year was challenging in many areas including not spending time with senior parents and grandparents, which is why Mother’s Day 2021 is a good time to celebrate the return to something more normal. Rather than sending a bouquet of flowers this year, show grandma, mom and other moms in your life your appreciation and love by giving your time.

Do something special like planting a new rose bush or a tree, putting in a tray of annuals, or cleaning up the garden in readiness for summer. Commit to helping mom with a DIY house project like painting a room or helping clean up the attic or basement. Give mom and grandma the “day off” by taking over the cooking and cleaning up. For a simple dessert, set up a sundae bar with all the trimmings and let everyone make their own treat.

If mom lives in an apartment, decorate her front door with a wreath or a huge homemade card signed by the whole family telling her how special she is. For a movie-loving mom, make a date to watch one of her favorite romantic comedies together in person or virtually. Other fun ideas include hosting a garden tea party or barbeque, and if you can’t get together, send mom all of the goodies you want her to enjoy at a virtual party.

Spend time together baking a fancy dessert or cooking a family favorite recipe for dinner. If mom lives close by, put together a basket of homemade goodies and deliver them to her door. The grandkids can help grandma feel loved by making cards or putting on a talent show or play. You or an older grandchild can “interview” grandma about her childhood and early adult years, wedding day, her years as a parent of small children, jobs etc. Whatever you decide on, just make sure mom feels special.

At MorningStar of Billings, we strive to honor our remarkable residents each and every day. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about one of the area’s finest senior living facilities. Our community offers independent living, assisted living and memory care.

A Simple Habit that May Help “Reverse Aging”

 

It turns out some unexpected habits and lifestyle choices can affect the way we age. Andrew Steele, scientist and author of the new book, “Ageless: The New Science of Getting Older Without Getting Old,” says the younger the better it is when it comes to preparing for our senior years. He points to the vast amount of research being done in aging biology, which shows that in theory, we can slow the aging process.

One way is to take care of our teeth as studies indicate a correlation between good oral health and heart disease, perhaps even dementia. Steele explains poor oral hygiene creates bacteria in the mouth leading to gum and tooth decay as well as inflammation. “Chronic low-level inflammation causes your immune system to become less effective at dealing with actual threats, such as age-related disease.”

A recent study out of Scotland reports people who brushed their teeth twice a day had a lower risk for heart attacks. The current recommendations from the American Dental Association are to brush your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes and to use toothpaste with fluoride and floss daily.

Another step Steele says we can take to reverse aging and essential to overall good health is to get enough sleep. He explains that while we sleep; the brain flushes out toxins of which some are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Research shows too little sleep is linked to an increased risk of death but too much sleep (11 hours or more) is linked to an even higher risk. Experts say seven to eight hours is optimal for most adults.

Please visit MorningStar of Billings’ website for more information regarding one of the area’s finest senior living facilities offering independent living, assisted living and memory care. For pricing and availability or to set up a tour, please contact us.

Source: cnbc.com/2021/03/28/andrew-steele-how-to-fight-aging-and-live-healthier.html

What Can You Do to Maintain Your Memory?

 

 

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health. Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain. An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.” Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming. However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health. This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night. Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

What sets MorningStar at Bear Creek apart from other memory care Colorado Springs offers? Our community is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website for more information about our experienced, compassionate 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. Visit our website to learn more about the finest memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Learn the Facts about Diabetes

 

 

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is what 90% of Americans with the disease have. In Feb, 2020, the CDC reported 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes; and 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. With such a prevalence of the disease, the Medical News Today website explores some common myths surrounding the cause and treatment of the disease.

One common misconception about type 2 diabetes is that it is caused by eating too much sugar. While not strictly true, diabetes can be a result of a poor diet that includes too much sugar and leads to obesity, which is a risk factor for the disease. However, to complicate the case, doctors do say there is evidence that suggests a high consumption of soda pop is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, although they are not sure why.

There is also concern that too many people think diabetes is not a serious disease. This thinking can lead to someone not managing the disease as they should, and result in dangerous complications. Another myth is that obesity always causes diabetes. Again medical professionals say while being overweight and obese are risk factor, the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistic Report, 2020, says “11% of people with type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are neither overweight nor obese.”

Managing the disease well plays a huge role in outcomes. For those who follow a good diet, maintain a healthy weight, control their blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and stay physically active, they can usually can avoid dangerous complications. Doctors also say by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, it is not inevitable that those with prediabetes have to develop type 2 diabetes.

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, an assisted living and memory care community, we are committed to creating a home that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our residents enjoy healthy meals that are prepared largely from scratch and are modified to accommodate low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat diets. We recognize that staying physically active is one of the healthiest things we can all do for ourselves, so our community has a variety of exercise opportunities. Please visit our website to see what sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ has to offer.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arrowhead provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-diabetes