When to Consider Memory Care for a Loved One

Dementia care specialists say they are often asked when is the best time to place a loved one in memory care. The simple answer is it is different for each person as well as for each family. They add that while there is no definitive answer, there may be a downside to waiting too long and typically there is not a problem moving a person into memory care in the early stages. 

Experts recommend families start the search for senior living communities offering specialized memory care once the level of daily care needed has surpassed that of what a family can effectively and safely provide. Caring for a loved one with dementia is both physically and emotionally challenging for family caregivers, and caregiver burnout is a real problem that can impact the caregiver’s health and wellbeing. Placing a person in a community specializing in dementia care allows family members to ease their role as caregiver and instead spend quality time with their loved one. 

It is important to keep in mind people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s lose a lot of their mobility. A petite woman trying to help her husband with the activities of daily living such as bathing, toileting, and dressing is difficult and can result in injuries to both of them. A designated memory care community can handle all of these tasks as they have the training, staff, and equipment to safely assist residents and prevent accidents.  

 

Another common problem Alzheimer’s patients have is a tendency to wander. This is again an example of how memory care communities are equipped to handle the problem. They have areas designed for residents to safely move about in but are secure in terms of wandering away from the community and getting lost or hurt.   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Fort Collins provides specialized, compassionate memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to meet the needs of residents from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they deserve the best care. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar of Fort Collins’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Sometimes a senior has a fall or another medical emergency that precipitates the need for a change in their living circumstances such as a move into an assisted living community. Other times, the situation is not so clear-cut and is more a case of a senior slowly losing the ability to attend to their daily care needs. We know it is upsetting for families to see their loved one decline, which is why experts offer advice to help determine if an assisted living setting would be an improvement in their lifestyle.

One way to decide if assisted living is right for your parent or another loved one is to take an inventory of what they are having trouble doing for themselves and if assistance would improve their quality of life. For instance, are they having a hard time preparing and cooking meals or need help bathing, toileting, and dressing? Have they stopped driving and spent a lot of time alone? Is your normally tidy parent now letting the household tasks go and/or mail is stacking up unopened and bills not getting paid?

Other factors that indicate the need for more help includes recent falls or burns from using water that is too hot or from cooking. Warning signs also include a history of medication mismanagement or worsening chronic health problems, which could all benefit from the care received in an assisted living community.

For trusted assisted living Fort Collins seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Fort Collins offers stylish assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. We make it easy for retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Fort Collins offers.

Regular Massage Therapy Proves Beneficial for Seniors

As we age, our bodies experience varying amounts of changes that bring about aches, soreness, and tight muscles. To help ease joint and muscle pain, and even reduce increased levels of stress, massage therapy is a way for seniors to relax their bodies and minds. Seniors can experience an improved quality of life, increased energy levels, and feel younger and more refreshed with regular massage therapies. Geriatric massage is a therapy designed to address the unique needs of seniors.

Geriatric massage uses the gentle application of hand pressure and includes light stretching of the muscles and oil or lotion to help your muscles to be worked on without inflicting too much friction on the skin. Geriatric massages that use these techniques enhance blood circulation, improve flexibility, reduce the pain caused by arthritis, increase mobility in the joints, improve posture, and help lower symptoms of depression and anxiety.

A specialty-trained senior massage therapist that is knowledgeable in the techniques of geriatric massages is mindful of safe positioning for the comfort and pleasure of their client. Usually, when receiving a massage, the client will rest in the massage chair on their stomach. However, if you are experiencing mobility challenges, the therapist may work both sides of the body as you sit up straight, or may only work hands and feet if you prefer.

MorningStar’s senior living actively looks for holistic techniques and creative activities to promote the well-being of seniors in their community. MorningStar at Arrowhead offers modern retirement homes in Glendale AZ with resort-style amenities such as an onsite salon and a massage room cared for by licensed cosmetologists and massage therapists who are passionately dedicated to our residents.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes and senior living options in Glendale, Arizona. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Arizona.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arrowhead, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

How is Mild Cognitive Impairment Diagnosed?

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems, or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they are often not aware of their memory loss. So, how is MCI diagnosed?

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s, normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.”

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies.

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. Experts say quickly progressing memory problems are most likely another issue as true dementia progresses pretty slowly.

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain the signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Fort Collins offers individualized, loving care to those with memory impairment. Every aspect of our community is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about one of the finest senior living communities in the area.

MorningStar of Fort Collins’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.


Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/related_conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment

Coffee Has These Benefits for Seniors

 

Everyone loves the smell of coffee in the morning. Enjoying a fresh cup of joe to start our day isn’t just great for maintaining a routine, but coffee has also been found extremely beneficial for seniors. Even if you are drinking decaf coffee, the benefits that come with these dark roasted beans are very impactful for our health. When consumed moderately, about a cup a day, this delicious and cozy drink can boost our body’s overall performance.

Coffee has an abundance of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our bodies in fascinating ways. Such as aiding against inflammation, protecting from damage to our cells, and can even reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and cell degeneration. During the roasting process, coffee beans become a potent source of antioxidants. As we age, the need for antioxidants becomes more crucial and beneficial.

Improving brain function is a worry we see often with seniors. The antioxidants of coffee block inflammation in the brain. If inflammation of the brain is present, this can often lead to dementia or other forms of memory loss. Coffee can also help to enhance memory and brain activity through the stimulant known as caffeine. It is important to consider how your body responds to caffeine, as sometimes overconsumption can lead to jittery hands, dizziness, or dehydration. In moderation, however, caffeine increases energy levels, gives you a concentration boost, and has been found to improve memory in seniors.

Senior Living Communities, such as MorningStar at Arrowhead, offer an elevated dining experience for our senior living community in Glendale, AZ. BrainWise Foods are featured in our dining services in which our executive chefs use ingredients in their menus that are known to support brain health by their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Coffee, both decaffeinated and regular, can be found at our onsite bistro and all-day restaurant-style dining.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes and senior living options in Glendale, Arizona. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Arizona.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arrowhead, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Ensuring the Safety and Wellbeing of a Loved One with Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. Therefore, experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep your loved one safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. 

Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, install automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, investigate food delivery services. Additionally, lower the temperature of the water coming from your taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies in a locked area. 

To reduce the risk for falls, install grab bars in the bathroom and put non-skid mats in the tub or shower. Stairways should be well-lit and uncluttered as well as hallways and pathways from room to room. Doctors who work with Alzheimer’s patients caution it is important to remember it is a progressive disease, and there may be a time when more restrictive protocols are necessary such as closing off a staircase altogether.       

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers 48 suites for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our community is designed with the special needs of our residents in mind and includes secure courtyards, patios and strolling paths, suites equipped with emergency call systems, and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding within our secure building.  Each resident receives an individualized alzheimers care plan and participants in daily activities such as arts and crafts, listening or dancing to music, physical exercise, special celebrations and other events. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek represents 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 for more information about our exceptional community.

Learn More About MorningStar of Billings

Since our company was founded in 2003, we have believed it is a privilege to “cast a new light” on senior living guided by the following precepts: to honor God in our business practices and relationships; value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. In addition, we firmly believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. 

MorningStar of Billings provides all the services, resort-style amenities, and programs to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.   Starting with a five-star dining service that includes meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients, restaurant-style dining and a private dining room, we have an onsite bistro, theatre, spa bath, and more.  Other amenities include a billiards & game room, library and fitness room as well as scheduled transportation. 

To serve the various needs of seniors, we offer both free-standing cottages as well as stylish suites for independent living.  MorningStar’s independent living promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle with maintenance-free living, built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and activities. Weekly housekeeping helps keep life simple and frees up time for other interests. Maybe it is time to improve your golf game, start or renew a hobby, get closer to the grandkids or volunteer in your community. 

 

If you are a senior who requires help with the activities of daily living, MorningStar of Billings provides various levels of assisted living. As a resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Billings offers compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also fully encourages and supports choice and independence as much as possible.  Memory care residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills, and art, and as well as outings and special events. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living, or memory care in Billings, MT. 

These Acts Will Brighten Your Loved One’s Day

A Senior Living Community is a great way for seniors to make new friends, be social, and experience new outlets of creativity. Your loved one may be overjoyed and content within their new environment, but that doesn’t mean they don’t miss their loved ones that aren’t within arm’s reach any longer. Here are a few simple and sincere ways to show your love and remind your loved ones that you are thinking of them while they are living in a retirement home.

Sending fresh flowers to a senior in a retirement community is an easy way to show your loved one that you are thinking of them. Not only is this gesture sure to brighten your loved one's mood, but it is a great way to beautify your special senior's space in their retirement home. The flowers will remind them of you whenever they pass by them and are sure to keep them feeling loved throughout the weeks. Local floral delivery services make it easy to have fresh-cut flowers dropped off right at the front desk of any senior living community.

Creating a special care package full of items your loved one enjoys is another way to remind a senior living in a retirement community of how much they are cherished even when you cannot be with them. Hand-picking items that your senior enjoys, or items that you both like, is an active way to show love towards your beloved family member or friend. Favorites are usually snacks they enjoy, books, hygiene products like lotions and soaps, and small trinkets. Remembering the things they enjoy, or the bonding of certain items you two may have shared, truly does make a senior feel loved when they are separated from their loved ones.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes and senior living options in Glendale, Arizona. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Arizona.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arrowhead, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Healthy Habits to Start in the Fall

For large parts of the country, 2022 turned out to be a very hot summer. Now that fall is around the corner, most of us can look forward to more moderate temperatures, making it easier to enjoy the outdoors. Medical experts say spending time outside has a beneficial impact on our mental health as well as boost our immune system; and a nice sunny fall day can increase our vitamin D. In addition, engaging in many types of exercise is not only more enjoyable but safer in temperate weather.   

Another healthy habit to incorporate into our fall routine is getting a flu shot. While we all know the dangers of COVID-19, influenza can also be deadly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises “The single best way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like flu.”

Fall is also time for healthy, immune boosting vegetables and fruits. Pumpkins are a good example of a tasty, nutritional vegetable. They are high in beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, as well as vitamins C, E, potassium and fiber. The versatile pumpkin can be used in everything from chili to soups, pastas, breads, drinks and yummy desserts. Moreover, don’t forget to save the seeds as they are high in plant-based protein, fiber and magnesium. 

For many, one of their favorite things about fall is the start of football season and enjoying the games with family and friends. Dieticians recommend considering healthier alternatives to traditional snacks on game day such as fresh vegetables and dip, homemade trail mix, hummus with veggies and fresh fruit. Not only are they more heart healthy but may help take off a few inches from your waistline.  

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, our primary goal is to provide seniors with carefree retirement years.  Our beautiful community offers residents a safe and comfortable home to age in place while taking advantage of resort-style amenities and a broad range of meaningful activities. Residents also enjoy healthy, nutritious meals inspired by our own Executive Chef and served in our full-service dining room. If you are looking for exceptional independent senior living, assisted living or memory care, please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

A Poor Diet May Increase a Person’s Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease. 

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite early studies showing MIND lowered the “risk of Alzheimer's by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely.” In 2018, the MIND diet recommendation was expanded to include older adults who have suffered a stroke. 

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy. 

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides specialized memory care assisted living for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 48 suites include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans; and our home is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Meals are designed around the special needs of residents and include nutritional and delicious, easy-to-eat foods. In addition, each resident receives an individualized service plan to provide the care they need as well as participates in meaningful activities and special events.  Please contact us or 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 visit our website for more information about exceptional memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs.

Luxury Assisted Living in Billings, MT

When you move to MorningStar of Billings as an assisted living resident, we do our utmost to make you feel right at home. This starts with a selection of suites including a choice of well-designed studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.  Each apartment has 9-ft ceilings, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, handicapped-accessible bathroom, and emergency call system. All that’s missing are your personal furnishings, and yes, we’re pet friendly.

MorningStar of Billings’ amenities include a fitness room, theatre, billiards and game room, bistro, library, enrichment activities, and more. Residents also enjoy beautiful courtyards, strolling paths, and raised garden beds. To make sure you have the time to do what you want to do, we provide weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

Residents are provided beautifully prepared meals designed by our Executive Chef, offered all day and served restaurant-style. Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest, healthiest ingredients.  In addition, our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage.

As an assisted living resident, you will have an Individualized Service Plan created for you to make sure you get the care you need when you need it. Your plan includes assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living) such as dressing, bathing, eating, and transferring services. We also provide medication management, which ensures medications are dispensed and refilled per your doctor’s instructions. Other care services include Periodic Health Assessments, and access to third-party providers, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  

MorningStar of Billings also offers independent living, memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) as well as trial stays from one week to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us to learn more and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

MorningStar of Billings represents the very best in independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Dementia and Depression May be Confused with One Another

Experts report as people age, dementia and depression are both common conditions and may be confused with one another. Additionally, one may lead to the other as depression is linked to a higher risk for dementia, and dementia can cause depression. 

The Harvard Medical School explains depression in the elderly can lead to a “phenomenon called pseudodementia—an apparent intellectual decline that stems from a lack of energy or effort.” They say individuals with this problem are often forgetful, move slowly, exhibit low motivation and signs of slowing mental prowess. If a loved one experiences these types of symptoms, their doctor may treat it with the same medications used to treat depression. As the person’s mood improves, they typically begin to function at their previous level. 

Professionals share a few ways depression and dementia differs to help families and healthcare providers determine what is going on. One important difference is the time span of the decline.  A person with depression typically shows a faster decline in mental functioning than those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Also, Alzheimer’s disease causes confusion and disorientation as well as problems with short-term memory. Depression causes problems with concentration. 

People suffering from depression do not have more than the usual difficulties with writing, speaking and motor skills, and are more aware of any memory problems they are experiencing. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease seem indifferent to those types of changes. However, to determine the cause of the problem, it is important to make an appointment with the person’s healthcare provider.  

If it does turn out to be Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar at Bear Creek is ready to help. Our community provides compassionate, comprehensive dementia care to those with memory impairment.  Along with 24-hour care, residents receive daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs.  For trusted memory care Colorado Springs families can count on, please contact us 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 visit our website for more information about the finest memory care Colorado Springs offers.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/understanding-depression