Preventative Health Screenings Every Senior Should Consider

As we age, staying on top of our health through preventative screenings becomes increasingly important. These screenings can catch potential health issues early, when they're most treatable, contributing significantly to seniors' longevity and quality of life. For residents in assisted living Fort Collins and those receiving Alzheimer's care Fort Collins, staying informed about which health screenings are necessary is a crucial part of their healthcare routine. Here's a guide to essential preventative health screenings for seniors.

1. Blood Pressure Screenings

High blood pressure is a common condition among seniors, often leading to more serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke. Regular blood pressure checks are easy, quick, and can save lives. Facilities offering Alzheimer's care Fort Collins and assisted living Fort Collins ensure that residents receive routine blood pressure screenings as part of their comprehensive care plans.

2. Cholesterol Checks

Like blood pressure screenings, cholesterol checks are vital in assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. High levels of bad cholesterol can clog arteries, leading to heart attacks or strokes. Seniors should have their cholesterol levels checked regularly to manage any risks proactively.

3. Diabetes Screenings

Diabetes screenings are essential, especially since the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age. Early detection through blood sugar tests can prevent complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems. Assisted living Fort Collins communities often provide dietary management and regular monitoring for residents at risk or with diabetes.

4. Cancer Screenings

Several types of cancer screenings are recommended for seniors, including those for breast, colorectal, prostate, and lung cancers. The specific screenings recommended can depend on individual risk factors, including family history and lifestyle. Discussing which cancer screenings are appropriate with a healthcare provider is crucial for early detection and treatment.

5. Bone Density Scan

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fracture, is more common in seniors. A bone density scan can assess bone health and the risk of osteoporosis, allowing for early intervention to strengthen bones and prevent fractures.

6. Vision and Hearing Tests

Regular vision and hearing tests help seniors maintain their quality of life and independence. Early detection of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and hearing loss means that treatments can be more effective, preserving these vital senses longer.

Preventative health screenings are a cornerstone of maintaining wellness in senior years. For those in assisted living Fort Collins and receiving Alzheimer's care Fort Collins, these screenings are integrated into their care, ensuring they remain as healthy as possible. By staying proactive with health screenings, seniors can enjoy their golden years with peace of mind, knowing they are taking the best possible steps to maintain their health and well-being.

We are a Pet Friendly Retirement Community in Glendale

If you are looking for all inclusive, luxury senior living that welcomes pets, look no further. Not only are our pets companions that bring us tons of joy, but they greatly benefit the lives of seniors in numerous ways. This is why MorningStar is a pet-friendly senior living community in Glendale, AZ. Our retirement community enjoys seeing seniors out and about with their beloved pets and we hope to see you and your furry friend here, too!

Caring for your pet provides a sense of purpose and something to look forward to. Family members of residents in senior living often worry about their loved ones becoming lonely or depressed during their transition from their home. Being pet-friendly allows our senior living residents to create a routine and something to look forward to when caring for their pets. Simple tasks such as daily grooming, feeding, and playtime with a pet add meaning to our lives. Having pets by their side gives our senior living residents in Glendale an enriched life.

Our retirement community loves showing attention to your pets. Our LifeEnrichment teams enjoy planning activities and events that allow residents to show off their beloved pets. By joining our senior living community, you’re joining a group that values every aspect of life.

At MorningStar Retirement Homes Glendale our care services provide a lifestyle of comfort and wellness. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar or our pet requirements. Some communities have a weight limit on pets, and we need to assess an animal’s appropriateness for our community on a case-by-case basis. There are also some restrictions on breeds.

 
Find All-Inclusive Senior Living Glendale

Want to know more about the 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, 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.

The Impact of Loneliness on Senior Health and How to Combat It

Loneliness is a significant issue that affects many seniors, with profound implications for both mental and physical health. Recognizing the signs of loneliness and taking steps to address it is crucial, especially for those in assisted living Fort Collins and receiving Alzheimer's care in Fort Collins. This article explores the impact of loneliness on senior health and offers strategies to combat this growing concern.

Understanding the Impact

Loneliness can lead to a range of health problems, including depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and heart disease. For seniors, the feeling of being isolated can be particularly detrimental, exacerbating the symptoms of existing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Facilities providing Alzheimer's care Fort Collins understand this connection and strive to create engaging and supportive communities for their residents.

Staying Socially Connected

One of the most effective ways to combat loneliness is through maintaining social connections. Participating in group activities, whether social events, exercise classes, or hobby groups, can provide a sense of belonging and community. Assisted living Fort Collins communities offer a variety of programs designed to encourage interaction and foster friendships among residents.

Embracing Technology

Technology can play a pivotal role in staying connected with loved ones. Video calls, social media, and messaging apps allow seniors to keep in touch with family and friends, even if they're far away. Training sessions on how to use these technologies are often available in assisted living Fort Collins and Alzheimer's care Fort Collins settings, empowering residents to communicate with ease.

Volunteering and Mentoring

Engaging in volunteer work or mentoring can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, significantly reducing feelings of loneliness. Many seniors possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can benefit others in the community. Opportunities for volunteering and mentoring are available in and around Fort Collins, enhancing seniors' sense of worth and connection to the community.

Seeking Professional Support

Sometimes, professional help may be necessary to address feelings of loneliness and its associated health risks. Mental health professionals can offer counseling and therapy sessions to help seniors cope with loneliness. Assisted living Fort Collins and Alzheimer's care Fort Collins facilities can provide access to these services, ensuring residents receive the support they need.

Combating loneliness is essential for improving the quality of life for seniors. Through social engagement, technology use, volunteering, and professional support, seniors in Fort Collins can find meaningful ways to connect with others and mitigate the negative impacts of loneliness on their health. Communities specializing in assisted living and Alzheimer's care play a crucial role in providing the resources and environment conducive to overcoming loneliness, fostering a supportive and connected senior community.

Why You Should Consider an All-Inclusive Retirement Community for Senior Living in Glendale

There are a myriad of reasons as to why a senior might enjoy independent senior living communities. Retirement homes often deal with the misconception that seniors who live there no longer experience freedom or friendship. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Luxury senior living communities in Glendale host a wide array of amenities to keep seniors’ lives active and enriching.

Even if you don’t require everyday assistance, a senior living community can still change your life. Here are some reasons to consider retirement homes and senior living even if you do not need medical assistance:

Be Part of a Social Senior Living Community

While retirement offers a lot of rest, this can also be isolating at times. Regularly seeing the people that we enjoy makes our days brighter and more exciting. Social senior living communities focus on creating a home that encourages social interaction, engagement and a sense of community for seniors. This type of senior living is designed to combat feelings of isolation and promote overall well-being and excitement. Regular community activities, planned social events, and holiday parties help you to feel connected with your community and give you plenty of things to look forward to!

Maintain Your Independence

Get excited for life again by being part of a walkable community where everything you need is in arms reach. Seniors enjoy a stress-free environment and a change of lifestyle and routine by moving to MorningStar Retirement Communities Glendale. We offer built-in companionship and the growth of new friendships. Hobbies can be explored while the usual mundane worries of house management are taken off your shoulders. Our retirement homes in Glendale offer easily accessible amenities like an on-site salon, fitness rooms, theatre, courtyard, and library.

Find All-Inclusive Senior Living Glendale

Want to know more about the 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, 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.

Nutrition and Heart Health: Best Foods for a Senior Diet

For seniors, maintaining a heart-healthy diet is essential for promoting overall well-being and longevity. Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in heart health, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Residents in assisted living Fort Collins and those receiving Alzheimer's care Fort Collins can benefit greatly from incorporating specific heart-healthy foods into their daily meals. Here's a guide to the best foods for a senior diet focused on nutrition and heart health.

1. Leafy Green Vegetables

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're particularly high in vitamin K, which helps protect arteries and promote proper blood clotting. Including these vegetables in your diet can support heart health, a practice encouraged in communities offering Alzheimer's care Fort Collins.

2. Whole Grains

Whole grains are a fundamental part of a heart-healthy diet. Foods such as oats, quinoa, barley, and whole wheat contain fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Assisted living Fort Collins often includes a variety of whole-grain options in their meal plans to support residents' cardiovascular health.

3. Berries

Berries are a powerful source of antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which protect against oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to heart disease. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries can easily be incorporated into the diet, offering a delicious and nutritious snack or dessert option for seniors.

4. Fatty Fish and Omega-3s

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their benefits in reducing blood pressure, decreasing triglyceride levels, and lowering the risk of arrhythmias. Facilities specializing in assisted living Fort Collins and Alzheimer's care Fort Collins recognize the importance of omega-3s and strive to include these types of fish in their menus.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats. They also contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can help reduce heart disease risk. Adding a small portion of nuts or seeds to your daily diet can have significant health benefits.

6. Avocados

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to reduced levels of cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease. They're also a good source of potassium, which is an essential nutrient for heart health.

Incorporating these foods into the diet can have a profound impact on heart health for seniors. Both assisted living Fort Collins and Alzheimer's care Fort Collins settings prioritize nutrition in their care plans, understanding that a heart-healthy diet is key to improving the quality of life for their residents. By focusing on these nutrient-rich foods, seniors can take a proactive step towards maintaining their heart health and overall well-being.

3 Important Things to Bring When Moving to a Retirement Community a Breeze

Moving to a retirement community can be overwhelming enough as it is for a lot of seniors, but it doesn’t have to be! The most important thing is to create an environment that is comfortable and nurturing. Dedicated to making your retirement years carefree, MorningStar Retirement Homes Glendale makes moving to a senior living community easy by reminding you to bring these 3 important things:

Priceless Memories

Photos, childhood memorabilia, and family heirlooms are important to pack when furnishing your new retirement home. As a bonding activity, work with a family member or friend to compile photos into a photo album or shadow box so you can always have these memories within arm's reach in your new home. Creating shadow boxes is a fun way to display keepsakes you have collected throughout your life.

The Essentials (Of Course!)

It’s easy to forget the things we use every day when we pack, such as personal care items. Packing your favorite bath products will help to make your new home feel more familiar and is a nice way to relax after moving in. Be sure to pack glasses, toothbrushes, and hair care as well. While MorningStar retirement homes in Glendale, AZ do have an onsite convenience store that can supply most necessities, special body care items should be heavily considered in your packing process so you do not have to miss out on your favorite product or wait for a replacement.

Favorite Activities

Favorite hobbies, activities, and entertainment are also important to have within your retirement home. Whether you pack cards, board games, movies, or books, these familiar things will not only help you decompress but can help you to make new friends. Hosting a game night with other residents is a creative way to break the ice with your neighbors and new friends.

Find All-Inclusive Senior Living Glendale

Want to know more about the 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, 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.

Sleep Problems Increase Your Risk for Stroke

A study published in the journal Neurology reports analyzed data from more than 4,500 people participating in INTERSTROKE, a large international case-control study of patients who have experienced a stroke. One of the findings from the study is “people who slept less than five hours a night on average were three times more likely to have a stroke than those who got seven hours of sleep — the recommended minimum for adults.” They also found sleeping more than nine hours a day accounted for a two-fold increase in risk for stroke.

Doctors say the study is in line with other research linking poor quality of sleep to high blood pressure as well as impairments to blood vessels, both risk factors for stroke. A director of the Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine at Northwestern Medical School, Dr. Phyllis Zee, explains things like fragmented sleep and sleep apnea impact a person’s ability to regulate metabolism, blood pressure and inflammation as well as increases the risk for diabetes, heart disease and dementia. Again all risk factors for stroke.

Experts say there are steps we can take to improve our quality of sleep. One of the first things is to make your bedroom a room of rest and not the place where you watch TV or read books. Make sure the room is dark at night, and maintain a regular bedtime. Get in the habit of waking at the same time each day. Avoid drinking alcohol at least three hours before bedtime, and expose yourself to morning light. Studies show it may be more beneficial to exercise early in the day.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is devoted to individualized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment. Our community is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We create a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest memory care Colorado Springs offers.

Source: cnn.com/2023/04/05/health/sleep-problems-stroke-study-wellness/index.html

Learn More About MorningStar’s Memory Care in Colorado Springs

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs. Our exceptional community has 48 secure suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Our team feels privileged to provide highly specialized, individualized care for seniors in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

MorningStar’s resident-directed approach to memory care respects the dignity and value of each person and supports choice and independence as much as possible. Residents can move freely about in a safe and secure environment that includes courtyards, patios and strolling paths. We also provide three daily meals served in our lovely dining room where residents and staff eat together. In addition, residents are provided 24-hour care with daily health monitoring, and access to a full-time nurse and other supportive third-party therapy services.

MorningStar’s memory care comes from a deep understanding of the disease, and we create an individualized care plan for each resident based on their background, preferences and abilities. Our compassionate, professional staff uses multi-sensory cues to calm and awaken memories and to support capabilities. All residents are encouraged to participate in a variety of purposeful activities that include music, life skills, art, entertainment and exercise as well as our special events and outings.

In addition, you can feel comfortable trusting your family member into our care as we are one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” For a senior living community to receive this honor, at least 75% of its staff must complete eight hours of training that include brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals.

Please visit our website for more information about our loving community. If you like what you see, contact us or use our Community Assistant (in the lower right corner) to set up a tour. We understand families feel traumatized by the sobering diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, and we want you to know we are here to support you as well as your loved one.

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 for more information about the finest memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs.

Interested in Independent Senior Living but Worried About the Cost?

While a retirement community may sound appealing, many seniors worry the cost is too high. The truth is, there is a wide range in the cost of independent senior living communities based on things like geographic location, services and amenities that all impact your monthly fee.

Luxury communities in metropolitan areas tend to be priced higher as do those in more desirable neighborhoods. Also, the apartment’s square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, location within the community such as sought-after views or end-units, balconies or private patios can all up the price.

Experts say it is important to consider the value of the services and amenities you receive. In your own home, you may have paid for things like lawn care and landscaping services as well as encountered unexpected home repairs and maintenance upkeep. Utilities and property taxes for a home that may have more space than you need at this stage in your life can be costly. Additionally, safely aging in place can often require expensive home modifications.

The social aspect of community living is something many seniors say they were surprised by the amount of value it offers. At MorningStar of Billings, we make it easier to connect formally as well as informally with restaurant-style dining, billiards and game room, bistro, life enrichment room, theater and a complement of wellness programs and activities. For your convenience, we offer surface parking spaces as well as attached garages on the cottages.

MorningStar of Billings represents the finest in senior housing. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years with opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting and activities amid beautiful surroundings. Our contemporary-style cottages and suites are maintenance free and allow you to spend more time doing what you love best, including being able to travel without worry. In addition, independent living residents have priority access to our assisted living and memory care suites, which gives you the security of knowing extra supportive care is available—if you ever need it. Please contact us for more information about pricing, available and to schedule 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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

Medications That Increase Fall Risk

The Harvard Medical School reports it is estimated 1 in 3 people over age 65 will fall each year, and every 19 minutes a senior dies from a fall-related injury. Statistics show women are at higher risk for a fall but men are more likely to die from their injuries than women.

Seniors should be aware of several things that can affect balance and lead to a fall. These include certain medications, inner ear problems, foot pain, weight changes and vitamin D deficiency. Anti-hypertensive medications prescribed to keep blood pressure under control or decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure are all known to affect balance. A common side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a condition that happens if blood pressure gets too low; and results in lightheadedness, faintness and dizziness especially when the person attempts to stand from a sitting or lying down position.

Medications that suppress the central nervous system may also result in a fall as they reduce alertness, and slow reactions and movements. Some of these types of drugs include anti-anxiety medications like diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). Additionally, antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are used in over-the-counter sleep aids like Nyquil and Sominex, or combined with acetaminophen in products like Tylenol PM.

If you or a loved one takes medication to treat an overactive bladder or tricyclic antidepressants to help lessen chronic pain, they too can affect a person’s balance. Other drugs that increase the risk of a fall are opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek, we proudly offer the Colorado Springs area individualized assisted living dementia care. If you are a family member searching for quality care for a loved one with memory impairment, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. Set within a gentle, loving environment, our care takes a resident-directed approach that utilizes multi-sensory cues to calm and to awaken memories, to support capabilities and, above all, to affirm dignity and value. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We create a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our loving assisted living dementia care in Colorado Springs, CO.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/preventing-falls

Downsizing Offers a New Adventure for Older Adults

Instead of feeling sad about moving from a home that perhaps is too large or costly for you to care for, think about moving into a smaller apartment or condo as the start of a new adventure. However, to do it right, you should be organized. Experts suggest you only take with you the things that bring joy and find ways to get rid of the rest. If that piece of advice still finds you with way too much stuff, then take a moment to picture how you want your new life to look. Is it a sleek, minimalist décor or more like a smaller, compact version of your present home?

Some simple solutions to help you decorate your new apartment include bringing with you or buying multi-purpose furniture. This could include upholstered storage benches or cubes, nesting coffee tables, extension desks, and sized-down sofa and chairs more suited to a compact footprint. Attractive baskets and storage carts also help to make a small place feel more organized.

If you want to use some of your current furniture, measure it, and then draw up a floor plan of the new place and lay it all out to see how it will fit. In addition, since your new place is smaller, it will most likely not have as many closets as your old home so go through your clothing and only take the items you truly enjoy wearing. Give the rest to charity. Lastly, consider the amenities at your new place. For example if they have an onsite fitness center, you probably do not need to bring along your own in-home treadmill or stationary bike.

At MorningStar of Billings, our beautiful senior community offers stylish cottages and suites that are ready to move into and just require your furnishings and personal items. Our broad range of services and amenities include wellness programs and activities, restaurant-style dining, fitness room, billiards and game room, life enrichment room, raised garden beds and more to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. If you are looking for independent or assisted living in Billings, MT, we encourage you to 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 independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Billings, MT.