The Many Benefits of Stretching Exercises

If you are a senior who is having difficulty turning your neck to look behind you when driving, having problems getting up from a low chair or difficulty picking something up from the floor, you may find adding stretches to your routine can really improve these types of motions. Stretching exercises also help seniors improve flexibility and balance, both of which lower a person’s risk of falls and injuries. Experts explain stretching gives seniors a better range of movement in their joints, helps improve posture, increases circulation and releases muscle tension and soreness. 

The Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults. It found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.” Along with the favorable benefits stretching provides, it can be done anywhere and does not require any special equipment. However, before beginning any new exercise routine, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level and the type of stretches most appropriate for you. 

Another thing to remember is it is important to warm up before stretching. Experts say it can be doing something as simple as a walk around the block. Additionally, they warn not to stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension. A stretch can typically be held for 30 seconds, but do not bounce when you stretch. 

If you are considering retirement communities in Glendale, we encourage you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about MorningStar at Arrowhead.  Our beautiful community has 60 private assisted living suites and another 25 suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement communities Glendale 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, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

The Importance of Getting a Loved One the Care They Need

Most seniors wish to maintain their independence as long as possible by living on their own; and this is why many who encounter problems in their day-to-day lives are reluctant to tell their families. The problem with this is as a senior starts to have more difficulty caring for themselves, their quality of life can be greatly diminished. 

Even if mom or dad seem to be doing well on their own, experts say a rapid decline in their health from an accident or illness can catch families by surprise and make living on their own dangerous. In addition, many health conditions affect musculoskeletal, neurological, circulatory or sensory systems and impact a senior’s ability to perform the activities of daily living (ADLs). Experts say other factors indicating a need for more help include social isolation, medication side effects and the physical characteristics of the person’s home such as a second floor bedroom. If after implementing a series of home modifications is not adequate, more measures need to be taken to keep your loved one safe. 

Experts explain unmet ADLs can lead to serious health problems including “malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and falls. In fact, studies show ADL disabilities are associated with an increased risk for mortality; and taking care of daily needs can help prevent new and worsening health problems.” They also report if family members notice a decline in a loved one’s overall health, taking steps now can improve their safety and forestall further problems. One solution is to make a move to retirement communities, where a person can live as safely and as independently as possible. To ensure needs are met, homes use the ADLs as a measure of a person’s functional performance.

MorningStar at Arrowhead is a beautiful community with 60 assisted living suites offering residents’ peace of mind knowing compassionate help is readily available whenever they need it. We also have 25 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  To learn more about one of the finest retirement homes in Glendale, please visit our website. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale 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, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

What is a Memory Care?

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, families must face the question of what the future will hold. For many a specifically designed memory care community will be the answer as it offers an environment focused on improving quality of life and keeping the resident safe.

A Place for Mom, a senior living referral website and information service, explains dementia care, also called memory care, is different from other senior care communities. Features include services such as 24-hour care, trained staff, memory-enhancing therapies, physical layouts that reduce confusion, and a secure environment. Moreover, as Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, a memory care home is equipped to care for a person from the onset to the most advanced stages.

Many of the behaviors and symptoms that develop as the disease progresses such as disorientation, confusion and aggression can be difficult for families to handle on their own. At memory care communities, the staff is experienced in managing these types of behaviors and uses specialized techniques to calm or stimulate as situations call for. In addition, a move to a memory community can reduce stress for family caregivers as caring for a loved one with dementia is often a full-time job and family members generally have other responsibilities.

Another benefit of memory care homes is the controlled environment which helps reduce confusion and disorientation for residents with proper lighting, clearly marked hallways, and a décor to encourage calmness and familiarity. Also, outside doors are locked to prevent wandering, allowing the inside atmosphere to safely encourage independence.

MorningStar at Arrowhead is honored to offer this type of comprehensive memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood. We provide support to our residents and their families with the kind of services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Glendale, AZ offers.

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in assisted living and memory care 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 senior living Glendale, AZ has to offer.


Source: aplaceformom.com/alzheimers-care

Learn More About Memory Loss

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. 

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. 

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve. 

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable.  

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our goal is to provide the finest memory care Colorado Springs offers, which includes helping families transition their loved ones into our welcoming home. Every aspect of our community caters to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Visit our website for more information about our loving home, our team and our company’s approach to 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 Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

Alzheimer’s Patients May Benefit from Therapy Dolls

Along with many non-drug interventions such as art, music, animals and gardening, doll therapy is another way to soothe and calm people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory loss. While some people find it controversial and believe giving toys to adults is demeaning, Dr. Gary Mitchell, PhD, a lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland and the author of the 2016 book Doll Therapy in Dementia Care: Evidence and Practice, respectively disagrees. 

He explains living with Alzheimer’s is like being lost in a sea of confusion and uncertainty. “You don’t really know people anymore. You don’t really know the days of the week; but when you have that doll with you, over a period of time it can almost be your anchor. That’s the thing you’re responsible for, the thing you remember. And it brings a sense of comfort and attachment.”

Additionally, a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry suggests doll therapy significantly reduced the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia as well as caregiver distress. Experts offer a few tips for families or caregivers who are considering getting a therapy doll. They say to casually introduce the doll and to let the person decide if they like it. If they appear disinterested, don’t force the issue but rather try again in a few weeks. While you will want to buy a life-like doll, don’t get one that cries.  

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we specialize in providing individualized memory care assisted living for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. Our community has 48 suites with studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans and is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. As dementia care specialists, we consider it our calling to walk alongside your family on this challenging path. Please visit our website for more information about our compassionate home, our company’s philosophy and our dedicated team. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in memory care assisted living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: everydayhealth.com/alzheimers-disease/complete-guide-to-doll-therapy-for-people-living-with alzheimers/

After a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

It is devastating news for families to get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia for a loved one. While probably not a total surprise as family and friends had noticed worrisome changes such as memory loss, confusion and an inability to perform many routine tasks, the question remains “now what?” 

This is where advice from the person’s doctor as well as other experts can be helpful. One trusted source is the National Institute on Aging (NIA) that offers lots of helpful information and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. The Alzheimer’s Association has many local chapters where you can get support, meet others in a similar situation, and get involved in various fundraising activities. In addition, the NIA encourages family members to reach out to local community centers and hospitals to see if they offer Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

Experts say it is important that the person continues to get regular medical checkups including with their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Your medical team should be able to tell you if there is a memory disorder clinic in the area. 

Now is also the time to take care of financial, long-term care planning. It is recommended you include your loved one in the discussion regarding their care as soon as possible. An advanced care plan ensures the person can receive treatment and care according to their preferences, even when they can no longer express them.

 

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, our entire community is dedicated to providing compassionate, professional assisted living dementia care and we are here if or when you need us. Our home is a safe, peaceful place for residents where they are encouraged to engage in meaningful programs and activities to stimulate or calm as the occasion requires. We are proud of our team who feels privileged to serve and have big hearts. Please visit our website for details on our home, care services and holistic approach to trusted dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in assisted living dementia care with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest”.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a home-like setting.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis

Looking for Assisted Living in Billings, MT?

Once mom or dad has made the decision to move to an assisted living community, you will want it to go as smoothly as possible and this includes helping them choose the right place to meet today’s needs as well as the next 5 to 10 years. In some cases, a move to an assisted living community is precipitated by a worsening medical condition or an injury due to a fall and the time to mentally prepare oneself is short. This is why MorningStar of Billings has a guide to help families navigate through such a momentous change in a senior’s life.  

Googling senior living in Billings, MT will bring up quite a few hits so experts recommend narrowing down the candidates to 3 or 4 communities that offer assisted living. Start with reading reviews from families and residents’ themselves to see what they say about the place, and then consider location, price and amenities. 

Touring a community is a real eye-opener and the Internet offers many tips on what to look for during your visit. At MorningStar, our online virtual assistant allows you to inquire about pricing and availability as well as set up a tour. We recommend setting aside a couple of hours for a tour and to get ready for a lot of details. Take notes and bring any questions you would like to ask. Focus on the overall ambiance, and take a look at our Monthly Expense Comparison and Senior Communities Comparison Chart beforehand to weigh value against cost. We also advise revisiting your top one or two choices, and remember many seniors find a trial stay; we offer them for up to a full month, is a good way to find out if it is the right community.

MorningStar of Billings offers comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our assisted living suites are available in a selection of floor plans and offer a broad range of amenities and services to meet your every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service. Visit our website to learn what sets our community apart from other senior living communities and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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.

Fun and Healthy Activities for Seniors

If you are retired, you probably have more time on your hands so why not try something new or something you have always wanted to do. This should include adding a physical activity to your daily routine as studies find many adults 65 years and older spend up to 10 hours a day sitting or lying down. Some of the best exercises for seniors are Nordic walking, swimming, golf, tai chi, and yoga. Experts say focus on improving your strength, balance and flexibility and check with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise routine.  

In addition, you may want to include activities or hobbies that bring you into social contact with others. This can be done by taking a class online or in person. Suggestions include joining a book club, learning to play an instrument or taking an art or photography class. 

Retirement means more time to learn how to cook or to be more adventurous in the types of food you prepare. It can be lots of fun and help you eat healthier and save money. Take the challenge by learning to cook foods from around the world, and then share the fruits of your labor by inviting family or friends over.  

Birdwatching is a hobby that ties in several objectives. You get out into nature, which has been shown to lower anxiety; learn something new, and get physically active. Moreover, if you join a birdwatching club, you get to meet people who enjoy the same things you do. For anyone wanting to improve their photography skills, shooting pictures of birds is a good way to do it; and the hobby offers a great activity to do while traveling.  

Other enjoyable hobbies, which can help seniors cognitively, include putting together challenging traditional jigsaw puzzles or 3-D ones. Crossword and Sudoku puzzles, trivia games, chess and other brain games are also mentally challenging. Another hobby becoming more popular with seniors is online gaming that can improve memory and enhance cognitive skills. 

If you are looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, MorningStar of Billings may be your answer. Our beautiful home is designed to provide seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Along with inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information.

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.

Do You Have Trouble Getting to Sleep or Sleeping Through the Night?

As more and more research shows, getting enough sleep each night is important for everything from better mental health to better physical health. Some studies have even reported findings of an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease in people who routinely have sleep problems.

If you are someone who has trouble getting to sleep or sleeping through the night, the US News & World Report published several tips from sleep experts to help reset your sleep clock and improve your sleep habits. They recommend beginning with reestablishing waking and bedtime rituals by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time. It may even be a good idea to eat meals at the same time. Your bedroom should be dark and use a light-blocking sleep mask if needed. Also keep your bedroom a work free zone. Other recommendations include avoiding caffeine after noon, spending time outdoors during daylight hours, and exercising each day. 

Dr. Kannan Ramar, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a pulmonologist, critical care specialist and sleep medicine specialist at Mayo Clinic, and professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, says, “Pervasive worry is a major factor in sleep disruption.” He advises his patients to turn off the TV and your tablet one or two hours before bedtime. Stop drinking alcohol at least one or two hours before sleep and consider moderating your consumption. 

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, our goal is to provide residents with the services and amenities that allow them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. Our community offers 32 free-standing cottages, along with 72 bright suites for independent living, 70 for assisted living and 36 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our campus is conveniently located on the west end of Billings in a beautiful park-like neighborhood and offers spectacular mountain views.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

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: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/sleep-reset-getting-your-sleep-back-to-normal