Certain Spices Could Lower Your Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Research from the UK reports there are things we can do that may influence our risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Research UK states some of the things that shape our risk like our age and our genes can’t be changed. “But others, like our diet and the things we do to challenge our brains, can be.” They go on to say the latest evidence suggests up to 40% of all cases of dementia are linked to factors we may be able to influence.

A tasty way which could decrease our risk is to enhance our daily meals with the addition of several spices. The first of these spices is turmeric, which research shows has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric contains an active, natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin and is part of what gives turmeric its yellow hue. Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, says some research shows a decrease in pain for patients with osteoarthritis when eating turmeric in recipes. Doctors suggest getting turmeric naturally in your diet is healthier than taking supplements.

The world’s most expensive spice, saffron, is also associated with health benefits including reducing depression symptoms and improving cognitive function; and gives food seasoned with it a golden hue color. The commonly used pepper is another spice on the list of beneficial foods as it may improve brain function and lower depression symptoms. Its value increases when used with turmeric as it “improves the bioavailability of nutrients in other foods, meaning your body absorbs more of the good stuff from what you eat.” Studies find another common spice, sage, may improve memory in low amounts.

At Morningstar at Bear Creek, a dementia care community in Colorado Springs, we offer individualized care of those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our care is tailored to serve the needs of our residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services. Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to dementia care 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. Contact us for more information about the finest dementia care in Colorado Springs.

Sources:

huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/these-spices-could-lower-your-risk-of-developing-dementia_uk_661d1ca4e4b0f8e522db5d3d
hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/turmeric-benefits

MorningStar at Bear Creek Offers Specialized Memory Care

MorningStar at Bear Creek provides trusted memory care Colorado Springs families depend on. Our community offers 48 secure suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s compassionate team will expertly provide the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.

Our community 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. 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, receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our residents. The eight hours of training includes 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 in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs has to offer.

Music Can Have a Positive Impact on Quality of Life

The Harvard Health Publishing journal recently reported on a study focused on the effectiveness of music therapy. The study found listening to music, singing and other forms of music therapy “can create significant improvements in mental health and smaller improvements in physical health–related quality of life.” Researchers sum it up by saying music offers a positive impact on the psychological quality of life; and is an easy way to raise spirits and help us feel better.

So if we feel music makes us happier and more relaxed, it is not our imagination. AARP quotes Laurie Keough, a clinical associate professor of music therapy at Nazareth College in Rochester, New York, who explains, “Music is processed all throughout the brain;” which is why it is applicable in so many different situations.

Music therapy is an established form of therapy with a lot of evidence of the benefits. These include improving health care goals like decreasing anxiety, improving mood and decreasing pain perception among others. Since listening to music is one of the best ways to get the benefits; it is easy for all of us to do.

Researchers say as we listen to music, it triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that's part of the brain's reward system, making us feel happier. It can also distract from negative thoughts and help us focus on more pleasurable emotions. A soothing playlist can be used to quiet the mind to help transition to sleep. Moreover, as music is known to bridge social connections, many senior living communities hold group sing-a-longs, which are not only fun but support studies showing singing improves language, memory and processing of information.

Other studies show the power of music to trigger memories in people suffering from dementia. It can help them feel connected to others, even when verbal communication is difficult as music memories remain in the brain long after other memories fade. Some dementia patients are able to sing or dance to songs from their childhood even after normal forms of communication no longer exist.

MorningStar at Bear Creek is devoted to the care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach to dementia 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 memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it. Please contact us for more information about compassionate memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to dementia care 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 contact us to learn more about the finest memory care assisted living in Colorado Springs.

Support Groups for Families of Memory Care Residents

When a loved one moves into a memory care Fort Collins, the transition can feel challenging—not just for them, but also for family members adjusting to a new dynamic. Support groups have become a lifeline for families, providing a space to share, learn, and lean on each other. These gatherings offer comfort, practical advice, and a sense of community, helping families feel understood and less alone on this journey.

What to Expect from a Support Group

Imagine walking into a room filled with people who truly “get it.” Support groups bring together family members who are all navigating similar challenges. Discussions often cover practical tips, personal stories, and emotional support. Some groups are led by a trained facilitator, while others operate more informally, allowing participants to guide the conversation.

In our experience, many participants find that just knowing they’re not alone is hugely comforting. Listening to others’ experiences, or even sharing a small triumph, can provide a much-needed boost. Whether it’s sharing a story about visiting their loved one or discussing how they’ve adapted family traditions, families find support groups to be a safe space to express and explore.

Key Benefits of Joining a Support Group

Support groups provide more than just advice. They’re about connection and understanding. 

Here are some key benefits families gain from these gatherings:

• Emotional Relief: It’s normal to feel a range of emotions—grief, guilt, even relief. Talking through these emotions in a supportive group can be incredibly freeing.

• Practical Advice: Members often share strategies that have worked for them, from managing difficult behaviors to creating meaningful visits with their loved ones.

• A Sense of Community: Building connections with others who understand the experience can reduce feelings of isolation. Many family members end up forming close friendships in these groups.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Support Group

If you’re considering joining a support group in assisted living Fort Collins, here are some tips to help you make the most of it:

• Be Open to Listening: Some people find it hard to talk at first. That’s okay! Sometimes, just listening to others can be valuable, especially in the beginning.

• Share When You’re Ready: There’s no pressure to speak up, but sharing your story can help others and provide relief for you. Small experiences, thoughts, or emotions can spark meaningful discussions.

• Take Notes: You might hear helpful suggestions or insights that you’ll want to remember. Jot down any advice or tips that resonate with you.

• Follow Up with Members: If you connect with someone, consider exchanging contact information. A quick text or call between meetings can be a comforting reminder that you’re not alone.

A Safe Space for Healing and Understanding

One of our resident’s daughters, Emma, shared that her support group has been a “lifeline.” She felt overwhelmed when her mom first moved into memory care Fort Collins and found it hard to accept the changes. Meeting others who felt the same way helped her process those feelings and gave her practical advice that she now uses to make her visits more meaningful.

Being in a support group offers families a place to process the complex emotions that come with memory care. It’s a space for learning, connecting, and even laughing together. Families who join support groups find strength in one another and leave with a better sense of peace, knowing they’re all in it together.

Adjusting to Shorter Days: Fall Energy Tips for Seniors

As autumn rolls in, the days grow shorter, and the lack of daylight can leave many of us feeling a little more tired than usual. For seniors, adjusting to the shorter days of fall can be challenging, with reduced sunlight sometimes leading to low energy or even seasonal blues. Thankfully, there are simple ways to boost energy and make the most of the cozy fall season.

Embrace Natural Light When Possible

Natural light plays an important role in regulating mood and energy, so make the most of sunlight whenever it’s available. Try to spend time outdoors each day, whether it’s taking a short walk, sitting on a patio, or simply enjoying the view from a window. Morning light, in particular, is beneficial for setting the body’s internal clock, helping you feel more alert and energetic throughout the day.

In memory care Fort Collins communities, many residents gather for morning coffee near windows or in outdoor areas to soak up the sunlight. Just 10-15 minutes of natural light in the morning can make a big difference in how you feel as the day goes on.

Keep Moving with Gentle Exercise

Physical activity is one of the best ways to boost energy and improve mood. Gentle exercises like walking, chair yoga, or stretching can increase circulation, reduce fatigue, and support overall well-being. Regular movement also helps counteract any stiffness that might come from cooler weather and encourages better sleep at night.

Many assisted living Fort Collins communities offer exercise classes or walking groups that make it easy for residents to stay active. These activities are a great way to maintain energy levels, enjoy a little social time, and feel a positive lift in mood.

Try a Vitamin D Supplement

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for mood and energy, but it’s harder to get enough of it when there’s less sunlight. Speak with a healthcare provider about whether a Vitamin D supplement could be beneficial for you during fall and winter. Many seniors find that a small daily dose of Vitamin D helps keep energy levels up and supports bone health as well.

If a supplement isn’t your preference, try incorporating Vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, fortified milk, or eggs into your diet to naturally boost your intake.

Stay Social and Engaged

When the days feel shorter and evenings get darker, it’s easy to feel isolated. Staying socially connected can lift spirits and energize your days. Plan regular visits with family and friends, or participate in community activities that bring people together.

Our resident Carol enjoys cozy movie nights with her neighbors, as well as joining community game afternoons. For seniors, socializing doesn’t just help pass the time—it’s a great way to stay motivated and enjoy a sense of togetherness as the seasons change.

With a few small adjustments, seniors can stay energized and positive as autumn brings shorter days. In memory care Fort Collins, embracing sunlight, staying active, and enjoying social time with friends all help make fall cozy, enjoyable, and full of good energy. These small changes bring warmth and comfort, helping everyone enjoy the beauty and calm of the season.

The Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Butternut Squash: A Fall Favorite for Seniors

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy butternut squash, a bright orange vegetable packed with nutrients that offer incredible health benefits. Butternut squash isn’t just delicious—it also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can be especially helpful for seniors. Whether roasted, pureed, or added to soups, this fall favorite brings flavor and wellness to the table.

Why Butternut Squash Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or irritation, and while it’s a natural defense mechanism, chronic inflammation can lead to joint discomfort, fatigue, and other health issues.

Butternut squash has several nutrients that help combat this:

Beta-Carotene: This antioxidant, which gives butternut squash its orange hue, helps fight off free radicals that can cause inflammation.

Vitamin C: Known for supporting the immune system, vitamin C also plays a role in reducing inflammation, making butternut squash a double win for wellness.

In assisted living Fort Collins, residents enjoy this veggie as a delicious way to keep inflammation at bay while savoring a true taste of fall.

Simple Ways to Add Butternut Squash to Your Diet

The beauty of butternut squash is its versatility—you can incorporate it into almost any meal!

Here are a few easy ways seniors can enjoy this anti-inflammatory vegetable:

• Roasted Butternut Squash: Cut into cubes, toss with olive oil and a dash of cinnamon, and roast until tender. It’s a simple side dish that pairs with almost anything.

• Butternut Squash Soup: Puree roasted squash with a bit of vegetable broth, garlic, and nutmeg for a creamy, soothing soup. Add a swirl of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

• Butternut Squash in Salads: Try adding roasted squash cubes to your favorite salad. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with greens, nuts, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

Resident Alice, a fan of seasonal cooking in memory care Fort Collins, loves to make a creamy butternut squash soup that she shares with friends. It’s become a cozy staple in her fall meals, bringing warmth and wellness with every spoonful.

Other Benefits Beyond Inflammation

The benefits of butternut squash go beyond just inflammation. It’s also:

• High in Fiber. Supporting digestive health and helping seniors feel full longer.

• Rich in Potassium. A nutrient that’s key for heart health and managing blood pressure.

• Low in Calories. Making it a satisfying addition for those who are watching their weight.

Embracing Butternut Squash This Season

For seniors looking to reduce inflammation while enjoying a nutritious, delicious vegetable, butternut squash is a perfect pick. Its rich nutrients, including beta-carotene and vitamin C, support overall health and provide a natural way to combat inflammation.

In assisted living Fort Collins, enjoying butternut squash brings the essence of fall to the table, making meals both flavorful and health-supportive. With simple, tasty recipes, it’s easy to bring the anti-inflammatory benefits of this versatile squash into your diet this season.

The Best Fall Foliage Destinations for Seniors in Arizona

Autumn in Arizona offers a stunning display of fall colors that many people don't expect from a desert state. For seniors looking to take in the vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges of the season, there are plenty of beautiful spots to explore. At retirement communities Glendale, we often encourage our residents to plan fall excursions to enjoy this seasonal beauty, and there are many options close by or within a short drive.

Here are some of the best fall foliage destinations perfect for seniors living in Arizona:

Flagstaff and the San Francisco Peaks

One of Arizona's best-known spots for fall foliage, Flagstaff offers cool mountain air and a rich tapestry of autumn colors. Just outside the city, the San Francisco Peaks come alive with golden aspens and deep red maples from late September through mid-October. For a relaxing experience, you can take a scenic drive along Snowbowl Road or even enjoy a leisurely hike on the Veit Springs Trail. This easy-to-moderate trail allows you to be fully immersed in the stunning fall colors of the region.

Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon

Just two hours from retirement homes Glendale, Sedona is a breathtaking spot where the red rock formations contrast beautifully with the changing leaves. The vibrant oaks, maples, and cottonwoods along Oak Creek Canyon create an unforgettable experience, especially if you take the West Fork Trail, one of the most popular fall hikes in the area. The mix of fall foliage with the backdrop of Sedona's iconic red rocks makes it a must-visit destination in late October.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Located near Payson, this state park is famous for its massive travertine bridge, but in the fall, it also becomes a wonderland of changing leaves. The park's variety of oak, cottonwood, and sycamore trees put on a vibrant display of golds and oranges from mid-October to November. It's a peaceful spot perfect for a picnic or a gentle walk through nature trails, offering an accessible way for seniors to enjoy the season's beauty.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

If you prefer to stay closer to senior living Glendale AZ, this botanical garden near Phoenix is a perfect option. In November, the arboretum transforms with bursts of red, orange, and yellow as the pomegranate, sycamore, and soapberry trees reach their peak colors. You can stroll through the garden's many pathways, taking in the peaceful ambiance and enjoying Arizona's unique mix of desert flora and fall foliage.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk or a scenic drive, these destinations offer incredible opportunities to experience fall's natural beauty in Arizona. Seniors in retirement homes Glendale can enjoy these spots, knowing that the state has much to offer beyond the desert heat.

4 Ways Senior Living Communities Encourage Active Lifestyles

Staying physically active is essential for maintaining health and well-being, especially for seniors. Senior living communities have embraced the importance of exercise and movement, creating environments that promote active lifestyles. These communities offer various opportunities for physical activity tailored to meet the needs and preferences of older adults.

1 - Access to Fitness Programs

Many retirement communities Glendale provide on-site fitness centers equipped with senior-friendly exercise equipment. These facilities offer a variety of fitness classes, from low-impact aerobics to chair yoga, designed to accommodate all levels of mobility.

The inclusivity of these programs ensures that every resident, regardless of their physical abilities, can participate and benefit from regular physical activity, improving cardiovascular health, maintaining muscle strength, and enhancing balance, thereby reducing the risk of falls.

In addition, many communities offer personalized fitness plans tailored to each resident's health goals and physical abilities.

2 - Outdoor Spaces for Walking and Recreation

Walking is one of the best exercises for seniors, and many senior living Glendale AZ communities feature beautiful outdoor spaces that encourage residents to stay active. Landscaped gardens, walking trails, and outdoor seating areas invite seniors to enjoy fresh air and gentle exercise. Group walking clubs or nature walks provide physical activity and social interaction, essential for mental and emotional well-being.

These green spaces also offer opportunities for gardening, which combines light exercise with cognitive stimulation, benefiting both body and mind.

3 - Group Activities and Social Engagement

Senior living communities encourage active lifestyles not just through physical exercise but also by promoting mental and social engagement. Group activities like dance classes, water aerobics, or even Tai Chi offer both physical benefits and social interaction.

Participating in these group exercises not only helps seniors stay motivated but also fosters a sense of community and connection, which can contribute to better adherence to fitness routines.

In retirement homes Glendale, these group classes are tailored to meet the needs of seniors at various fitness levels, ensuring everyone can participate and stay engaged.

4 - Focus on Overall Wellness

Many senior living communities adopt a holistic approach to wellness, offering fitness classes, nutritional support, and mental health activities. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a resident's health is considered and cared for. Nutritionally balanced meals and educational workshops on healthy eating support physical health, while activities like meditation or mindfulness practices help reduce stress.

By addressing the full spectrum of wellness—physical, mental, and emotional—senior living communities create an environment where residents can thrive.

This focus on overall well-being ensures that seniors in senior living Glendale AZ, can maintain an active, balanced lifestyle that supports longevity and enhances quality of life.

The Role of Genetics in Breast Cancer Risk for Seniors

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and the risk increases with age. While many factors contribute to breast cancer development, genetics play a significant role, particularly for seniors. Understanding genetic risk factors can help guide screening, prevention, and treatment strategies for older adults.

Inherited Gene Mutations

One of the primary ways genetics influence breast cancer risk is through inherited mutations. The most well-known mutations are found in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are responsible for suppressing tumors. When these genes are mutated, the body's ability to repair damaged DNA is impaired, leading to an increased risk of breast cancer. Seniors with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer may carry these mutations, and genetic testing can help determine their risk.

For seniors in retirement homes Glendale, genetic counseling is a valuable resource. It helps them understand their personal risk and plan appropriate breast cancer screenings, making it an essential part of their healthcare journey.

Family History and Risk

Having a first-degree relative (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer significantly increases a senior's risk of developing the disease. This familial connection is often linked to shared genetic factors. However, it is important to note that not all women with a family history of breast cancer will develop the disease. Genetic predisposition interacts with lifestyle and environmental factors to shape overall risk.

In retirement communities Glendale, discussing family medical history during regular check-ups is a crucial step. It ensures that personalized screening plans are developed based on genetic risk factors, enhancing the effectiveness of the screenings.

Genetic Testing and Prevention

Genetic testing can provide valuable insights for seniors concerned about their genetic risk for breast cancer. Tests can identify mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and other less common gene mutations linked to breast cancer. Based on the results, healthcare providers can recommend preventive measures such as increased surveillance, lifestyle changes, or even preventive surgeries in high-risk individuals.

In senior living Glendale AZ, healthcare professionals work closely with residents to interpret genetic testing results and create individualized prevention plans to reduce the likelihood of cancer development.

Implications for Treatment

Genetics not only play a role in breast cancer risk but also influence treatment decisions. Seniors who test positive for BRCA mutations may respond differently to specific treatments, such as targeted therapies that address the underlying genetic cause of the cancer. Understanding the genetic profile of the cancer can lead to more effective and personalized treatment plans.

For older adults in retirement homes Glendale, genetic information is crucial. It helps in determining the most appropriate and effective breast cancer treatment, ensuring that each individual's unique needs are understood and valued, leading to the best possible outcomes.

Those Most Satisfied With Their Healthcare Engage in Self-Advocacy

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude.

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ office or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider in memory care. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume.

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask.

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.

For outstanding independent living, assisted living or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Billings. Our beautiful home provides a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living 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, Montana.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

Senior Living Communities Meet the Needs of Older Adults in Many Ways

Senior living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of support. For older adults who are still homeowners, senior living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to a senior living community provides an extra layer of security as well as easy interactions with people in a similar time of life. Moreover, communities such as MorningStar of Billings offer the kind of independent and assisted living seniors depend on with a broad range of services including delicious, nutritional daily meals.

Senior living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones. In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute. In fact, part of our mission statement is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.” We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.

Remember even if you are the type of person who values their privacy, senior living gives you peace of mind knowing that people are around when you need them. Moreover, if you start out in independent living, and later, you require help with the activities of daily living (ADLs) as offered in assisted living, you will have priority to available suites. The same goes for our memory care area. This is an example of the benefits of living in a community with more than one neighborhood under its roof. Please visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living at MorningStar.

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, Montana.

Healthy Habits to Maintain and Enhance Your Memory

Studies suggest that while some memory decline is inevitable with aging, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain and enhance memory function as well as our overall brain health. The US News & World Report says one of the things we can do is to routinely be physically active as studies show it provides a lower risk of mental decline and Alzheimer's disease.

They explain physical activity optimizes blood flow to the entire body including the brain and helps keep our memories sharp. However, the type of physical exercise is important and should include a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio such as power walking, running, biking or swimming. (Before beginning any new exercise, experts say check with your healthcare provider).

If you worry about forgetting things, Dr. Vernon Williams, a sports neurologist and founding director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, says for most of us it is normal. He states all of us forget things like where we put our keys or when our doctor’s appointment is, which is typically not a reason for concern. Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are different and cause more consistent memory problems that have a debilitating effect on a person's quality of life.

Along with physical exercise, other strategies to improve and protect memory include challenging our brain by learning new things, sleeping well and eating a healthy diet. Dr. Williams says adults need at least seven to nine hours of sleep a night as it “allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of dementia.”

MorningStar Senior Living of Billings has cottages and suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations to meet different preferences and needs. Our community’s amenities offer plenty of ways to exercise both the body and the brain. Amenities include a fitness room, library, life enrichment room, resident garden beds, wellness programs and activities. We are committed to providing the best independent living, assisted living and memory care in the area, and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community.

MorningStar of Billings’ 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 the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/memory-decline-isnt-inevitable