Medication Management is an Important Preventive Measure

Experts say medication management is an important preventive measure to avoid potential serious health hazards for seniors. As many older adults take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to treat different symptoms and health conditions, they are at a greater risk for medication mix-ups. Researchers estimate that 25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.  

Polypharmacy is the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse, or harmful, drug events. While these episodes are usually preventable, doctors acknowledge it can be confusing keeping track of daily dosages and special instructions such as to take with or without food or the time of day, etc.

If an elderly parent or grandparent is taking several medications, healthcare providers say it is a good idea to inquire about their medication management. One sign they may not be organized is if they have medications stored in different locations throughout the house, and old, outdated prescriptions are mixed in with current ones. You can start by gathering all medications in one place, remember it is best to store them in a cool, dry location, and set aside any outdated medications for proper disposal. Write down the names of the drugs, dosages, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Also, include herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. Bring the list to the next visit to their primary care physician and ask why mom or dad is taking it, how long they will be on it, and do any medications present a dangerous interaction with another drug they are on. 

MorningStar of Fort Collins’ goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, and we work hard to provide a true “home” for our residents.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure residents’ comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar.

MorningStar’s senior living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none.  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. Please contact us for more information about MorningStar of Fort Collins.

Source: cdc.gov/medicationsafety/adult_adversedrugevents.html

Senior Living Communities with Specialized Memory Care

If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, you may be looking for the best care for your loved one. A specialized memory care community such as MorningStar of Fort Collins may be your answer.  

Memory care communities such as MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood care for individuals with dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Services include 24-hour supervision and typically offer a secure environment specifically designed to keep residents safe and secure. This means residents are encouraged to be as independent as possible and are free to explore their surroundings.     

Another thing to know about memory care is that it has evolved through the years.  Today’s communities now offer wellness programs that help deal with memory impairment and wandering issues as well as other common dementia behaviors.  At MorningStar, we provide residents a number of specialized programs and highly personalized care that address their unique needs.   

Studies also show residents in memory care communities have a higher quality of life.  A Place for Mom, the largest senior living referral website, reports that residents in memory care have “reduced medication and medication side effects; fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; increased nutrition and wellness; and greater independence and social interaction.”  They also add that close to 75 percent of residents experience an improvement or maintenance of mental functioning.   

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences.  MorningStar of Fort Collins recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we are grateful we can provide the support they need.  Please visit our website to learn more about our individualized, holistic memory care.  

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, our 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 outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Stretching Exercises are Important as You Age

Health professionals say it is important to incorporate stretching exercises into your routine, especially the older we get as our flexibility naturally decreases. As joints become stiff, and tendons and ligaments tighten up, we become more susceptible to injuries as well as chronic pain and poor posture. In fact, studies show men’s flexibility drops sharply at around 70 years of age. 

Stretching exercises are easy to learn, relatively easy to do, and should not take more than five to ten minutes. Urvashi Chogle, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, says the shoulders, hips, knees, and spine lose the most flexibility.  He explains, "This makes many everyday movements more difficult, such as reaching overhead, squatting, twisting, and bending over." 

Of course, before you begin any new stretching exercises, you need to consult with your healthcare provider. He or she may have suggestions on how to safely get started or direct you to your local community senior center or other organizations for classes. Additionally, the Internet has a lot of information on how seniors can improve their flexibility with stretching exercises done in a chair, standing up, or if you can, on the floor. Regardless of your level of fitness, these exercises should help improve your range of motion, flexibility and joint stiffness.   

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we offer seniors a carefree lifestyle to safely age in place with a range of care services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our programs include a range of exercise classes such as chair yoga, gentle stretching and others to help keep you moving. Our community has 55 stylish assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 24 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  For the area’s finest memory care or assisted living, Fort Collins seniors are encouraged to contact us for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Fort Collins offers.

Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/a-plan-for-easy-stretching

Visiting Your Loved One in a Senior Living Community

If you have a loved one staying in a senior living community like MorningStar Senior Living Glendale Az, then you know that visiting your family member or friend regularly is key to keeping your connection strong and helping them stay social. Spending undivided time together gives your loved one something to look forward to and keeps them motivated and excited. If you find yourself visiting often, you may feel like you’ve run out of things to do together. While visiting retirement community in Glendale, these fun and exciting activities may be a new way to freshen up your visitation routine with your loved one.

With the weather changing, it may be a bit more enjoyable to get outside for some fresh air. Get your loved one out of their apartment and enjoy the fall breeze on MorningStar’s beautiful outdoor Fireside Patio and Porches. You and your loved one get to enjoy the fresh air and some physical activity, too. There’s a long list of benefits of fresh air and spending time outdoors for seniors—including improved brain health and decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Plan a private dinner for your loved one. MorningStar offers a Private Dining Room for intimate dinners that is one the most modern and luxurious places to spend time with your loved one in a senior living community Glendale AZ has seen. Food is a healing medicine unlike any other. It is also one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed with someone you love. Your loved one residing in MorningStar’s retirement home will sure to feel special and considered when you plan an intimate dinner for them. Whether it be for a special occasion, or just because. MorningStar also has trained executive chefs that love to incorporate the freshest ingredients from high quality, local producers and would love to cook for you and your loved one.

Love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Glendale AZ. 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 retirement facilities in Arizona. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Long Distance Grandparenting in a Senior Living Community

Being a grandparent is such a rewarding and fulfilling title to claim as a senior. It’s a great feeling to watch your children raise a family of their own. It can be especially troubling when you have to watch all of life’s adventures from afar. Missing your grandchildren’s birthdays and special events due to distance can be heartbreaking for seniors living in assisted living and senior living. Lucky for us, our day and age in technology allow seniors incredible new ways to communicate with their family, no matter the distance.

Internet communication has become easier to use and more streamlined in recent years. Video chatting allows you to see your long-distance family and friends through a few clicks on your phone or computer. The quality of these chats is surprisingly crystal clear, and the apps are very user-friendly! Planning weekly video chats is a great way to stay involved with your family and grandchildren. Watching young children grow up is so bittersweet. The more regularly you see them, the less stark their changes seem. Assisted Living Communities in Glendale, such as MorningStar Senior Living of Arrowhead, has up to date technology in their retirement communities and actively encourages their residents’ family members to communicate as much as possible with their loved ones in senior living in Glendale, Az.

Make sure your grandchildren’s parents send you the big moments that you, unfortunately, won’t be able to attend. Dance recitals, school plays, and other big events are hard to have to miss. Asking your children to video record special moments to send you is another quick and easy way to feel involved in your grandchildren’s lives. Later, you can discuss these events with them on the phone or through a letter or package. Even though technology is improving, that doesn’t mean old forms of communication are out of style yet!

Love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Glendale AZ. 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 retirement facilities in Arizona. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Celebrate with Your Family this Thanksgiving in a Senior Living Facility

If you're a resident who has just moved into senior living, you may still be getting comfortable in the community and worrying about the upcoming holidays. Thanksgiving might not look quite the same as it did in years past, but the tradition doesn't have to end just because you've moved. MorningStar Assisted Living Retirement Homes Glendale, AZ, has a foundation built on community and loves to welcome family and friends to the community to celebrate special events and holidays. Dedicated to making your retirement years carefree through luxury amenities, specialized activities, and healthy meals, MorningStar Retirement Community at Arrowhead provides seniors with the finest Senior Living AZ has to offer.

Most senior living communities plan special events around the holidays to ensure that residents don't feel isolated or excluded from the festivities. Thanksgiving activities at MorningStar of Glendale, Arizona, usually include a traditional thanksgiving feast. Invite your family to Thanksgiving dinner, then sit back and enjoy. Celebrating with your family at a senior living facility means less mess, less worry, and more undivided attention toward your family and loved ones.

Not only do you not have to worry about preparing a meal for Thanksgiving, but at MorningStar retirement communities Glendale, our senior living dining experience is inspired by the belief that diet is the centerpiece of personal wellness. Our trained Executive Chefs design seasonal menus that feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Sometimes even from our garden! Our executive chefs love to bring fresh fall foods to your table whenever possible.

Love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it's fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar's social activities and retirement communities in Glendale AZ. 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 retirement facilities in Arizona. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Understanding How Cognitive Reserve Protects Brain Health

The Harvard Medical School says to understand cognitive health it is important to recognize the concept of cognitive reserve, “your brain’s ability to improvise and find alternate ways of getting a job done.” Experts say a good way to think of it is like a powerful car with another gear that suddenly accelerates to avoid an obstacle. Thus our reserve can help the brain change the way it operates and make added resources to cope with the challenge.  

So how do we build cognitive reserves? Research shows it is developed through a lifetime of education and curiosity, which aids the brain in coping with the failures or declines it may face. The National Institute on Aging says cognitive reserve could account for the individual differences in susceptibility to age-related brain changes or Alzheimer's disease-related pathology. Evidence shows some people can tolerate more of these changes than others and still maintain function.  This is proven by studies in which people with higher education and higher occupational attainment appear to have a reduced risk for Alzheimer’s.  

While much of our cognitive reserve is developed over a lifetime, Harvard Medical School doctors say it is important to continue to engage our brain as we age. Examples of good brain activities to increase our reserve include learning to play a musical instrument or to speak a new language, doing crossword puzzles and engaging in high levels of social interaction. Regular exercise can also improve cognitive reserve.  

Other ways to protect our cognitive health and its reserve is to take care of our physical health especially when it comes to managing high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. A healthy diet and managing stress is also important.  

MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care assisted living community in Colorado Springs. We understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia-related disease is a heavy blow and want to reassure families we are here to help shoulder some of the burden. 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: nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

Community Living Provides a Higher Quality of Life for Many Seniors

Unlike years ago, when elderly people wanted to live in their own homes for as long as possible, many of today’s seniors see a real advantage to senior housing and love the idea of a more active community life. In fact, studies indicate community living provides a higher quality of life for many seniors and may contribute to a longer life and better physical and emotional health than those who remain in their own homes. 

Experts say this may be due to the fact senior living offers a less stressful, carefree environment in which seniors no longer have the responsibilities and unexpected expenses of home repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a 55+ community is built around the needs of its residents as it is designed to be safely navigable for older folks as well as offers the benefit of others being around in case the need arises such as in the event of a fall. 

Another reason a senior living community such as MorningStar of Billings enhances quality of life for residents is the five-star dining experience for better nutritional health. Additionally, wellness programs, social activities and special events mean there is something to look forward to each day. Whether taking a yoga class, playing a challenging game of trivia, relaxing with friends on the patio or sharing a bistro, you will be engaged, stimulated and have a sense of purpose.   

MorningStar of Billings strives to be the best independent and assisted living in the area, and we take the well-being of our residents very seriously.  Our all-inclusive community offers all the amenities, services and enrichment programs to give you the best retirement years possible. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, we have secure suites devoted to highly individualized, specialized care. Please see 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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

Using Humor and Music to Connect with Dementia Patients

People with Alzheimer’s disease often appear to lose the ability to laugh or smile but researchers say most individuals still retain some sense of humor. It is a good thing as a study from Australia reports humor may enable Alzheimer’s patients to better cope. The University of New South Wales study shows humor therapy can be as effective as some drugs in managing agitation in dementia patients. 

Researchers studied the effectiveness of professional humor therapists, known as Elder Clowns, who work with trained nursing home staff called Laughter Bosses. The group performed weekly humor sessions to nursing home patients or individuals using techniques similar to Clown Doctors, who work in children’s hospitals. An additional study from Osaka University in Japan reinforced the Australian research finding the positive effects of humor can last for weeks after a therapy session. 

Other areas of research have discovered positive behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s patients when listening to a personalized playlist. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease reports on a study showing music with a particular meaning to a person “can activate regions of the brain typically untouched by early Alzheimer’s disease and may offer a new way to approach anxiety, depression and agitation in patients.”

Jeff Anderson, M.D., a contributing author of the study and an associate professor of radiology at the University of Utah Health, explains the study was inspired by the “Alive Inside” documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. He adds music-brain connection research is just getting started. 

MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek is designed from the ground up to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach to memory care includes a gentle flow of purposeful activities that leverages the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort. We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  For trusted memory care Colorado Springs seniors and their families can count on, please contact us or 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 and encourage you to see firsthand the best memory care Colorado Springs has to offer.

Sources: 

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2018/humor-alzheimers-dementia-caregiving

aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2018/music-therapy-alzheimers-symptoms

Pets are Beneficial to Seniors

Research has shown pets are beneficial to seniors. A Place for Mom’s website reports on one study, which found “15 minutes spent bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.” Researchers explain interactions between human and pets can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke. 

Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection. In fact, animals uplift the spirits of those in hospitals, convalescent homes, mental health centers, nursing homes, and assisted living communities through pet therapy programs. Moreover, pet therapy has proven beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Experts point to the animal’s full acceptance and non-verbal communication as being soothing for patients.      

It was not that long ago that seniors moving into a 55+ community had to leave behind an important companion, their pet. Today however, more and more senior living communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar of Billings, allow residents to bring their pets with them. We do ask that you check with us regarding our pet policy.  

Please contact us with your questions regarding availability, choice of cottages or suites, pricing, care services and more. Our beautiful community offers 32 cottages and 72 suites for independent living and 70 suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, 36 secure memory care suites are devoted to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. We look forward to hearing from you.

At MorningStar of Billings our 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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. 

Age Related Hearing Loss

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

For trusted independent living, assisted living, or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Billings. Located on the west side of town in a beautiful park-like neighborhood with mountain views, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and other services.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

At MorningStar of Billings our 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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. 

Gum Disease May Increase the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at Tuft University recently reported a link between gum disease, also known as periodontitis and periodontal disease, to an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection within the soft tissue of the mouth, and “about 47.2% of U.S. adults over 30 and 70% over 65 have gum disease,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The study, which was done with mice, discovered the correlation, but researchers hope the findings can be used to someday help reduce cases of Alzheimer’s disease. The authors cite Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a bacterium that causes gum disease and is already linked to kidney disease, diabetes and coronary problems to be the problem. 

The lead author, Dr. Jake Jinkun Chen, professor of periodontology and director of the Division of Oral Biology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine explains the purpose of the study is to identify and characterize the association of induced periodontal disease with Alzheimer’s disease. He says as F. nucleatum generates “inflammation both locally and systemically, it affects the Alzheimer’s disease phenotype, as Alzheimer’s itself is an inflammatory disease.” Additionally since the bacteria migrate and penetrate the brain, it can worsen the symptoms and signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Researchers plan further studies in humans and say although there is not a proven link yet; good oral health benefits our overall health. They also say to decrease our risk for Alzheimer’s, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise.  

As Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases progress, a loved one may need more care than they can get living at home. When the time comes for memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Bear Creek, a community committed to caring for individuals with memory impairment diseases. Our holistic care is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love. Contact us for more information about MorningStar’s 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 or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bacteria-that-cause-gum-disease-may-increase-risk-of-alzheimers#Inflammation-and-Alzheimers-disease