Learn More About Assisted Living Communities

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Fort Collins are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many elderly adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life.

A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar of Fort Collins, our Executive Chef specializes in creating tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents.

Another problem many older adults have is managing medications properly. In fact, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people age 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However, experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.” For this reason, MorningStar offers medication management to our residents.

Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their retirement years and live as comfortably and safely as possible. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury senior living in Fort Collins.

MorningStar of Fort Collins’ foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

The Benefit of a Pet in Senior Living and Retirement Homes

Companion animals, like cats and dogs, bring joy and comfort into our lives. Especially for seniors, having a pet provides many added benefits, especially in a retirement home or senior living community. If you have been considering a retirement community in Glendale, Arizona, and currently have a pet, or are planning to adopt one, rest assured that your furry friend will be treated like part of the family at MorningStar Senior Living at Arrowhead. 

Life is better with pets. For seniors, pets help keep seniors relaxed, happy, and mobile, especially in retirement communities. If a new senior is wary about moving to senior living, bringing their beloved pet along is sure to make them feel more comfortable and calm knowing they have them by their side through this new journey. Before beginning to make friends in the community, seniors will often rely on their pets for a little added help. Pets give us easy opportunities to spark conversations and meet new people. Pet-friendly retirement communities, like MorningStar at Arrowhead, provide residents with an added way to meet neighbors and make new friends. 

Pets keep us moving! It’s true that most senior living communities won’t have backyards attached to your apartment, which means taking Fido out for daily walks. If you're still agile and are looking for ways to improve your health and mobility, taking daily walks and playing ball with your dog in one of MorningStar’s fenced courtyards is sure to keep both you and Fido active and healthy. For cat owners, playing with your cat's favorite toy is another way to keep you both engaged and happy. 

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, take 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 seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

MorningStar of Fort Collins Offers Experienced Memory Care

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Fort Collins offers experienced memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.

The Reflections Neighborhood is designed in full consideration of the dispositions and behaviors of those with memory impairment and encourages independence for residents with clear wayfinding; and safe, inviting common areas. Residents receive daily health monitoring and 24/7 care along with access to a licensed nurse and more supportive third-party service providers. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.” By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.

All our employees, regardless of their position, will receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents. The eight hours of training include the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.

Please contact us for more information about MorningStar’s memory care or assisted living in Fort Collins and all the amenities and services we provide. We look forward to hearing from you.

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 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.

Supporting a Loved One’s Transition to a Retirement Home

If your elderly parent or a senior loved one has lived in your home for many years, their want to transition to a retirement home may come as a surprise. You may feel as if you haven’t done enough to support them, or perhaps have been too busy to meet their needs. However, this is far from the truth. A senior may decide to transition to a retirement home by their own wishes due to their want to grow friendships with like-minded individuals, explore new hobbies, and have a new space all for themselves. At MorningStar Retirement Homes, we offer the finest senior living Glendale, Arizona has to offer seniors looking for life-long friendship, luxury style amenities, and a new adventure. 

Supporting a loved one’s transition to a retirement home is a selfless act of love. This support should be shown through curiosity, not guilt or shame. To show your loved one that you will be alongside them on this new journey, take the time to research communities together. First, ask your loved one what sort of activities or amenities are they looking for in a senior living community. For those that enjoy book clubs, exercise classes, and fine dining, MorningStar at Arrowhead offers the most active community for seniors looking for a retirement community.

After researching a few senior living options, perhaps touring a community will help you feel assured in your loved one’s decision. Upon visiting MorningStar, you’ll notice our sleek and accessible community layout, predictable budgeting options, activities and programming, and tasty meals that you no longer need to cook. We handle all the maintenance, inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping. Our Independent Living suites are equipped with their own washer/dryer and full kitchens for the meals you feel like preparing on your own.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, take 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 seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Is an Elderly Parent Having Difficulty With Daily Activities?

Most seniors wish to maintain their independence as long as possible by living on their own; and that 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 issues.” 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 an assisted living community, 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.

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we provide carefree retirement years. From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and amenities to ensure residents comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted assisted living in Fort Collins.

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 assisted living Fort Collins, Colorado offers.

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

Explore the Local Amenities Near MorningStar Retirement Homes in Arizona

When it comes to deciding on a retirement community, where you choose to live is as important as which senior living community you choose. Considering how close it is to your original home, what the climate the area offers, and if it is close to your family are all important things to consider. You will also want to consider the safety and accessibility of the location to things outside of the community. In order to keep your life as full as possible, MorningStar Retirement Communities at Arrowhead have considered the importance of locale, making this senior living community the perfect spot to explore the local amenities near our retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona.

Dedicated to making your retirement years carefree, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead provides seniors with the finest assisted living Glendale or Peoria has to offer. Taking safety and accessibility into account, our senior living community is nestled in a family-friendly suburb with walkable paths and is close to other amenities and attractions.

While MorningStar Retirement Homes in Glendale offers modern and luxury amenities within its community, there will be times when you want to get out for the day to dine at a restaurant with family or friends, catch a movie, or do some shopping. Our resort-style senior living community is close to Thunderbird Conservation Park, a wide array of shopping options, and popular restaurants.

While your family is sure to love the walking paths, fireside patio, and dining room within MorningStar’s retirement community, you all will want to find time to explore the city as well. For loved ones visiting with children, our community is a quick jump on the Agua Fria Fwy/Arizona State Route 101 to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. For more senior-friendly activities the family can enjoy, consider the Westgate Entertainment district or visit historic downtown Glendale.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, take 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 seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

August is National Eye Exam Month

Optometrists and ophthalmologists explain practicing good eye care includes regular eye exams. The current recommendation for those between 40 to 65 years of age is an exam every 2 to 4 years. For adults over 65, the recommendation is every 1 to 2 years and should include a check for eye diseases and conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

During a dilated eye exam, an ophthalmologist will check pupil reaction, eye pressure, retina, optic nerve, side/peripheral vision, eye movement, muscle balance and coordination. They will also check your focusing ability and eyeglass prescription. The doctor will ask about your medical history including if you or a family member has diabetes, as diabetics have a higher risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma as well as diabetic retinopathy. In addition, they will want to know if you have high blood pressure as over time it can cause damage to the blood vessels around the eyes. Shingles is another disease that can cause inflammation around the eyes, swelling of the eyelids and pain.

August is National Eye Exam month and is a good time for an exam check as Americans are exposed to the greatest amount of UV ray exposure during the summer months, which can increase the risk for cataracts, growths, and cancer. Ophthalmologists say while our eyes need exposure to natural light to maintain our sleep cycles, it is important to wear sunglasses with UV-blockers and hats as protection against the sun.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we specialize in providing individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our 48 suites offer a choice of floor plans along with all the amenities and services required for the finest care. We want you to know we are here to help if your loved one is suffering from memory loss. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s holistic dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, 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 assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is Designed for Residents’ Needs

MorningStar at Bear Creek in Colorado Springs was specifically developed by architects and the MorningStar team to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of residents suffering from memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our community focuses entirely on providing the finest memory care assisted living designed around the special needs of residents.

When people visit MorningStar at Bear Creek for the first time, they are impressed with the comfortable atmosphere of our community.  Although a secure setting, independence is encouraged and residents can explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. MorningStar’s approach to care incorporates Montessori-based therapies and includes wellness programs and activities. In addition, we provide access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers. 

Our 48 suites come in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites ranging in size from 315 to 608 square-feet. Each unit is equipped with an emergency call system and a full, handicap-accessible bathroom. Our floor plans are available on our website to give you an idea of the configuration that would work best for your loved one. Included in your monthly fee are basic cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek is honored to have earned the “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” designation from the Colorado Alzheimer’s Association.   This special recognition of our expertise in serving the memory-impaired was earned by enrolling at least 75% of our staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals. 

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 at Bear Creek recognizes that many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we believe it is important to provide the support they need.  Please visit our website for more information about our individualized, holistic memory care.  

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs.

The Benefits of Senior Living Communities

As it turns out, many seniors are quite happy with their decision to move into an independent or assisted living community.  In part, that may be since many of today’s senior communities are loaded with numerous amenities and activities.   As a resident, you are provided with a lifestyle of comfort and community as well as a sense of safety and security.  Here are some of the many benefits: 

• When seniors move out of their family home into a senior community, they find themselves freed from lots of responsibilities.  Owning a home requires routine care and maintenance such as yard work and other housekeeping chores.  

• Seniors often live alone and experience feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Also, as people age, many are reluctant to drive, which means they end up spending a lot of time at home by themselves.  This is something that is not a problem in senior communities.  While activities are optional, there is generally something of interest for everyone.    

• For seniors who do not drive anymore, senior communities usually offer some form of transportation.  In addition, many routinely schedule day trips to activities such as plays, museums, shopping or other events.  

• We also know that many seniors who live alone do not eat well.  In some cases, grocery shopping and preparing food has become difficult.  Many senior communities make healthy, nutritious food a priority and offer choices such as low sodium, no sugar added etc.  

• As an assisted living resident, you will receive help with activities of daily living (ADLs) to provide a better quality of life. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services senior communities provide to ensure your safety and to meet your needs.

• Finally, we cannot forget the importance of socializing and making new friends at any age.  Even for individuals who value their privacy, there is still the comfort of having other people around.  If the event of a fall or medical emergency, help is always close at hand.

At MorningStar of Billings, we provide all this and more. Our broad range of services and amenities include all-day dining, billiards and game room, theater, fitness room, library, wellness programs and activities to promote a healthy lifestyle for residents. Please visit our website 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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

Pet Therapy for People With Dementia

Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) is used for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia to alleviate feelings of boredom, loneliness and helpless. Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard trained geriatrician and author of “The Eden Alternative,” said bringing in children, plants and animals helps to invigorate long-term care by “incorporating companionship, a sense of purpose, variety and spontaneity into the day-to-day experience of aged care residents.”

While studies show therapy dogs and other animals are useful in stimulating social interaction and easing agitation in dementia patients, experts say it should be done with specially trained pets to get the most benefit. Moreover, the animal should be matched to the setting as well as to the person. Pet therapists say dogs are generally the easiest to train as they are comfortable interacting with a variety of people.    

The benefits of animal therapy to dementia patients include the unconditional love and acceptance animals freely give out as well as the physical touch from the pet contact. Also, these relationships do not require much in the way of communication skills, which are often difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers say other benefits of pet therapy include an increase in physical activity and an unexpected improvement in a person’s appetite after a visit from an animal as well as an overall calming effect. 

 

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides compassionate, loving care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  MorningStar’s approach to memory care is designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss.  Our wellness program includes activities that leverage the power of art, music, dance, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort residents.  For trusted memory care in Colorado Springs, please contact us or visit our website 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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care Colorado Springs offers.

Sources: 

verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677

tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.5172/conu.2011.37.2.222

As You Age, It's Important to Keep Exercising

Not only is physical exercise good for our heart and cognitive health but it can help older adults stay steady on their feet. Studies show regular physical activity can reduce the risk of falls in older adults at a high risk of falling by nearly one third. 

Experts explain certain kinds of exercise helps increase muscle mass and bone strength as well as improve balance and coordination, fight off osteoporosis, and reduce the risk for fractures and broken bones. Some of the best exercises are known as weight-bearing, which require a person to carry their weight and work against gravity. Examples include walking, dancing, hiking, climbing stairs, jogging and playing tennis or basketball. Doctors say if you can manage it, increasing your pace during aerobics, jogging and power walking make the exercises even more effective at strengthening bone density.  

Resistance exercises also work against gravity and help build muscle mass and improve bone strength. Strength training with weights, weight machines or resistance bands are all examples of exercises that rely on muscle contractions that tug on bones to stimulate them to bulk up. Along the same line, impact exercises such as jumping jacks and walking or running uphill have been shown to improve bone density fairly quickly. 

Healthcare providers say to be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you're taking medications that slow your coordination or throw off your balance. According to the Surgeon General, your optimal goal should be at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days, preferably daily.

For those of you looking for luxury independent living or assisted living, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Billings. We make it easy to exercise with a fitness room along with a variety of wellness programs to keep you moving. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy life to the fullest. Visit our website for more information, and if you like what you see, please give us a call to set up a tour.

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 and assisted living in Billings, MT.