Tips for Hosting a Monthly Potluck With Friends or Neighbors

There’s something heartwarming about sharing a table with people you enjoy. And a potluck? It’s the perfect excuse to gather without putting the pressure all on one person. Whether it’s a handful of friends from down the hall or a group that fills the entire community room in senior living Glendale AZ, hosting a monthly potluck brings people together in a simple, joyful way.

Here’s how to make it feel easy, fun, and something everyone wants to come back to each month.

Pick a theme that feels fun, not fussy

A little inspiration makes it easier for everyone to decide what to bring. Themes like “comfort food,” “family recipes,” “finger foods,” or “breakfast for dinner” can add excitement without being restrictive. Seasonal ideas work great too. Think soups in January or fresh salads in July.

Use a sign-up sheet

This keeps things balanced. You don’t want five people in assisted living, showing up with pasta and no desserts in sight. A simple list for main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks gives guests a chance to choose what works best for them. Hang it in a common area or post it digitally if your group is tech-savvy.

Create a welcoming setup

Fold-out tables with a tablecloth, a few labeled cards for each dish, and simple decorations go a long way. Name tags help neighbors who may have seen each other in passing but never officially met. Little touches make people feel included.

Make room for dietary needs

Encourage folks to write down ingredients or mark if something is gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-sodium. It’s thoughtful and helps everyone feel comfortable trying new things.

Keep cleanup easy

Have paper plates, napkins, and to-go containers on hand. Many people love sharing leftovers or bringing a bit of everything home. Fewer dishes also mean more time chatting and less time scrubbing.

Add an activity or conversation starter

Some groups enjoy a short game after eating. Others like themed questions placed on the table like, “What was your first job?” or “What’s your favorite holiday tradition?” It breaks the ice and leads to real conversations.

Rotate the host or co-host

Even if the potluck always happens in the same common space, switching up who helps organize it gives everyone a chance to contribute in different ways. Some love decorating. Others enjoy music playlists or welcoming new guests.

Potlucks are less about perfection and more about togetherness. At many retirement homes Glendale, these monthly meals are where laughter grows, friendships deepen, and stories are shared over second helpings. It’s a tradition that reminds us how comforting it is to be part of a community, especially one that eats well.

Gut Health and Aging: What Every Senior Should Know

It’s not exactly dinner table talk at retirement homes Glendale, but gut health matters a lot more than most people realize. As we age, digestion doesn’t always work the way it used to. What once felt like “a little heartburn” or “just being bloated after lunch” can become daily discomfort that affects energy, mood, sleep, and even immune function.

Here’s the good news: in assisted living supporting your gut doesn’t have to involve a complete lifestyle overhaul. Just a few mindful changes can make a big difference.

Let’s start with the basics: What is gut health, really?

Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, both helpful and harmful. When they’re in balance, digestion runs smoothly, and your body absorbs nutrients more efficiently. But when things get out of sync, it can lead to inflammation, constipation, diarrhea, and even mental fog or low mood.

Why does aging impact gut health?

As we get older, the body produces fewer digestive enzymes and stomach acid. That makes it harder to break down food. Medications, especially antibiotics or long-term antacids, can also throw off the balance of gut bacteria. Add in a more sedentary lifestyle, and it’s easy to see how things can go a little off track.

Simple changes that support better gut health:

• Eat more fiber. Fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains help keep things moving. Fiber is like a broom for your digestive system, it sweeps waste through and supports healthy bacteria.

• Stay hydrated. Water helps fiber do its job. Without it, digestion slows down, and you’re more likely to feel sluggish or uncomfortable.

• Include fermented foods. Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can introduce helpful bacteria into your gut. If those don’t appeal, talk to your doctor about a probiotic supplement.

• Don’t rush your meals. Chewing thoroughly gives your body a head start on digestion. Eating slowly also helps you notice when you’re full, which can prevent overeating and bloating.

• Move your body. Gentle movement, even a walk around the building, can stimulate digestion and reduce constipation. You don’t need a gym to get your gut moving.

• Pay attention to patterns. If you notice discomfort after certain foods or times of day, make a note. Sharing that with your provider can help pinpoint problems early.

In places like senior living Glendale AZ, these conversations happen more often than you might think. Supporting digestion is part of supporting whole-body wellness. A comfortable gut can make your days feel lighter, your energy steadier, and your meals more enjoyable, which is exactly how it should be.

Daily Habits That Help Prevent Skin Cancer After 60

The Arizona sun in senior living Glendale isn’t shy, and we know it better than most. Around here, the warm rays feel like a part of daily life. But with all that sunshine comes the need to be extra mindful about skin health, especially after 60. Our skin changes as we age, becoming thinner and more sensitive, which means protection matters more than ever.

Let’s start with sunscreen. Yes, every day. Not just when you’re headed to the pool or out for a long walk, make it as routine as brushing your teeth. Look for one labeled broad spectrum with an SPF of 30 or higher. And don’t forget spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet if you're wearing sandals. A lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen can actually make your skin feel better, too.

Covering up helps more than most people think. A wide-brimmed hat, lightweight long sleeves, and sunglasses with UV protection go a long way toward blocking harmful rays. Think of it like dressing for comfort and care at the same time.

Stay out of peak sun hours when you can. Midday sun, roughly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., tends to be strongest. If you like being outside, aim for the early morning or later afternoon when the sun is lower. Even a shady bench or umbrella makes a big difference.

Check your skin regularly. If something looks new, darker, itchy, or doesn’t heal, make a note of it and bring it up with your doctor. It’s not about being alarmed, it’s about staying aware. Skin cancer caught early is often highly treatable.

Hydration and nutrition play a role, too. Skin needs moisture from the inside out. Water helps in assisted living but so do foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, and even sweet potatoes. These nutrients support skin repair and resilience.

Moisturize after bathing to keep your skin from drying out, especially in the drier Arizona months. Fragrance-free lotions are usually the gentlest option, and applying them right after a shower helps lock in hydration.

We always remind seniors that staying proactive doesn’t mean missing out on the sunshine we love. It just means enjoying it smarter.

That’s something we talk about often here in retirement homes Glendale where wellness and daily habits go hand in hand. A little extra care each day adds up to years of better skin health, and more time soaking in the beautiful Arizona light without worry.

Activities to Keep the Brain Active and Healthy

Stimulating your brain through certain activities is critical to having overall well-being as you age in Alzheimers care Fort Collins.

Activities that keep the brain active and healthy include:

• Arts and Crafts: Painting, coloring, and sculpting are a great way for residents to express themselves creatively while activating different parts of the brain.
• Music and Movement: Listening to music, singing, and even playing an instrument can help trigger memories and encourage brain activity.
• Meditation and Mindfulness: Guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, and other mindfulness techniques can help improve focus, reduce stress, and increase mental clarity.
• Puzzles and Brain Teasers: Crossword puzzles, trivia games, and classic board games are all great ways to challenge the mind and improve cognitive function.
• Cooking and Baking: Taking a cooking class or baking cookies can be a fun way to stimulate the senses, memory, and decision-making skills, while also providing an opportunity for social interaction.
• Dance and Movement: Dance classes, tai chi, and other forms of movement-based exercise can help improve balance, coordination, and cognitive function.
• Gardening and Horticulture: Planting flowers or vegetables can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, as well as opportunities for problem-solving and routine.
• Book Clubs and Literature Discussions: Reading books and discussing them with others is a great way to keep memory and language skills sharp.
• Language Learning: Learning a new language can be a fun and challenging way to create new neural pathways in the brain.
• Virtual Reality Experiences: Virtual tours of museums or travel destinations can provide mental stimulation and a sense of adventure and discovery.

Occupational Therapies to Keep the Brain Healthy and Active

Memory Care: Sharing stories and reminiscing about past experiences can help maintain long-term memory and keep residents engaged and connected.

Animal Assisted Therapy: Spending time with therapy animals can provide comfort and reduce anxiety, leading to a sense of calm and happiness.

Nature Therapy: Horticultural therapy, which involves working with plants and gardens, can provide a sense of calm and mindfulness, while also improving cognitive function.

The activities that keep your brain sharp are just as important as the therapies that support brain function.

An assisted living Fort Collins community that offers a variety of brain-boosting activities is critical in the overall care experience, so make sure to ask about these during your next tour.

Be sure to choose a community with a lot to offer in the form of social and stimulating experiences.

Geocaching for Seniors

Are you in search of a hobby that will have you exploring, walking, and problem-solving all at the same time? Geocaching might be just the thing you’re looking for. You can think of geocaching as a real-life treasure hunt, one that's an ideal pastime for active seniors who like being outdoors in assisted living Fort Collins.

Basics of Geocaching

Geocaching is an international game of sorts that invites participants to hide small, weather-proof containers called “caches” in locations like parks or wooded trails and have other people search for them. These containers can also be hidden in cities or neighborhoods, in a backyard, or wherever you can think of in between. Caches can be as simple as a plastic box that contains a logbook for people to sign to show they’ve visited. Some may also contain small items, like inexpensive toys or trinkets, that finders can take as long as they leave a different item of equal or greater value in return.

Getting started with Geocaching

You can become a geocacher by following these steps:

Signing up

Open an account with a geocaching website, like the popular Geocaching.com , to access information about other people’s caches, like where they’re located.

Downloading a geocaching app

Use your smartphone or GPS to download a geocaching app that will direct you to hidden caches.

Select a cache

Find a cache you think you can get to easily and which is appropriate for a beginner. Most geocache websites have tips that will give you an idea of what you’ll face.

Find and log

Once you’ve found the hidden cache, record your name in the logbook and take an item, if there is one and you’d like to.

Appeal of Geocaching for Seniors

Geocaching as a pastime in memory care has several qualities that make it attractive as a hobby for older adults:

Mild exercise

It’s a low-intensity physical activity that you can do while hiking or wandering around a city.

Brain game

It challenges your mind to figure out puzzles and use GPS technology to find hidden treasures.

Quality time

It’s a way to spend enjoyable time with your grandkids, friends or family or to meet other people.

Eye-Opening Scenery

It can help you explore nooks and crannies near your home or in a vacation spot.

Geocaching Tips for Beginners

A few other things to consider when first getting into geocaching:

• Look for easy caches at first. You don’t want to get frustrated and give up on a hobby you could really enjoy.
• Bring a friend or walking companion for safety and camaraderie.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for the weather and for walking on paths.
• Bring water and ensure someone knows your plans.

The World as a Treasure Map

Geocaching adds a little adventure to a walk in the park or a hike on a trail. It can help you find a new walking path you never knew existed, an historical marker that tells a story or a place to sit and relax that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

It’s a great way to add a little spice to those mundane outings that are otherwise so routine you might not even notice. Whether you’re looking to mix up your daily routine or get your grandkids interested in a new hobby, geocaching is an excellent way to add a little intrigue to your life at any age in Alzheimers care Fort Collins.

Beat the Heat with Senior Friendly Summer Activities

Summer is the season for heading outdoors in assisted living Fort Collins. However, some older adults may not take full advantage of the season due to fear of heat exhaustion, falling, or becoming overly fatigued. It is possible for seniors to safely enjoy the outdoors with a little preparation and appropriate pacing. Here are five outdoor activities to help older adults to incorporate movement into summer while maintaining health and safety.

Start the day with a nature walk.

Find a local park, botanical garden, or arboretum with a flat and shaded trail system. Head out early in the day, before the heat and humidity of the day builds. Wear a lightweight daypack with water, a snack, and a charged cell phone. If there is a risk of uneven ground, consider using walking poles for additional support. Walk with a friend or join a community walking group.

Try picnic bingo.

Create a bingo card with summer images such as butterflies, red umbrellas, or children flying kites. Find a picnic pavilion with lots of shade and a nearby park. As you walk to and from park benches, complete your bingo card by seeing items on the card. This activity works on cognitive and visual recognition skills and allows for short bouts of walking.

Practice chair yoga on the patio.

Many memory care, have free online chair yoga videos for their members. Set up folding chairs under a patio canopy or umbrella. Have a glass of cool cucumber water on hand and enjoy a 20 minute video that helps keep your joints loose without overworking your heart. Place the chair on a flat surface to prevent it from tipping over.

Grow a container garden.

Container gardening is a great way to enjoy herbs and flowers without the bending and kneeling required by a garden in the ground. Set up pots at waist level and use long handled tools to minimize bending. Select herbs and flowers that are drought tolerant such as rosemary and marigolds. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and mist yourself at the same time.

Fly model airplanes or kites.

Flying a kite or model airplane is a fun way to relive childhood and to work on shoulder mobility. Head to a large, open field with soft grass to provide cushioning in case of a fall. Wear comfortable athletic shoes that provide support and bring a lightweight folding stool for sitting. Limit sessions to 30 minutes and take breaks in the shade if you start to feel overheated.

Summer volunteering.

This is a great way to have purpose while getting safe activity. Local historical societies often need tour guides for outdoor exhibits in the shade and local animal shelters always need gentle dog walkers early in the morning. These volunteer opportunities are meaningful, can expand social networks, and provide movement at an appropriate pace in Alzheimers care Fort Collins.

Walking Gait Changes May Indicate Alzheimer's Disease

Several studies, including one from the journal Current Biology, report the way a senior walks may be messaging something about their future cognitive health. Researchers say walking relies on a person’s navigational skills, which demands mental engagement.

The slowing of a person’s walking pace is one of the things studies are looking at as an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. People may start to take smaller steps and drift from side to side as well as exhibit poor balance and a history of frequent falls. Ryan Glatt, a certified personal trainer, senior brain health coach, and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in California, told Medical News Today, “In clinical settings, gait-based tests can be helpful for determining fall risk, especially with distractions, and perhaps can be part of a more comprehensive cognitive evaluation in the near future.”

Other studies report that people with early Alzheimer’s disease have difficulty turning when walking. Researchers say the problem was not detected in older, healthy participants who suffered from mild cognitive impairment, suggesting the problem is specific to Alzheimer’s. Glatt explained the reason might be connected to changes in the hippocampus, a region of the brain partially responsible for spatial memory that helps to control visuospatial navigation.

Another early warning sign of Alzheimer’s is an altered sense of a person’s environmental perceptions. For example, a person may struggle to understand objects, and become confused by thinking something is 2D when it is really 3D; or vice versa.

Dr. Jonathan Fellows, who leads the Michigan Institute for Neurological Disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorder Center, adds, “Observation of gait is an important assessment in the diagnosis of various dementias, including Alzheimer disease, as patients with this disorder can have what is called dyspraxia, or difficulty doing a previously learned task – in this case walking or turning.” Researchers explained that some of the problems that appear to be specific to Alzheimer’s might allow doctors to diagnose patients earlier; and without the need for blood, spinal fluid or speech tests.

MorningStar at Bear Creek offers memory care in Colorado Springs for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourage and support their independence while keeping them safe. Daily, purposeful activities use music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment. Contact us or visit our website for more information on alzheimer care.

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 facility Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/walking-difficulties-could-be-an-early-sign-of-alzheimers-disease#Why-walking-may-be-difficult-for-people-with-Alzheimers

Older Adults are Frequently Targeted by Scammers

The Federal Trade Commission reported in 2023, adults in the U.S. lost a record $10 billion to fraud. They want us to remember scammers are skilled and persuasive, and use tactics designed to catch us off guard.

A common scam is to phone older adults and pretend to be from organizations like the IRS, Social Security Administration or Medicare. During the call, they ask for personal information, and if the person is reluctant to give it, they threaten to cut off benefits. Once they have your information, they use it to commit identity theft.

Be wary of calls from someone who claims you have won a lottery or prize and the only hitch is you need to send money or gift cards to cover taxes and processing fees. Also, don’t be taken in by a popular scam claiming your computer is compromised and you need to pay them to fix it. Especially targeted at seniors is a caller pretending to be a grandchild or relative (or their friend) pleading for money to be wired to get out of jail or other types of trouble.

To protect yourself, change your passwords often and make sure they are complicated. Use two-step verifications when you have the option. Be careful of giving out any information over the phone, in emails or through texts. Avoid transferring money or purchasing gift cards over the phone. Experts say once you complete such a transaction, the money is typically unrecoverable. Finally, if you are targeted by a scam, notify your local police department or reach out to the National Elder Fraud Hotline.

At MorningStar at Bear Creek,memory care we provide compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other memory loss diseases. As dementia care specialists, we provide support to our residents and their families with an array of services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted 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 contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Pueblo Co.

Living with Alzheimer’s Disease

While a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease for yourself or a loved one is hard to hear, it is important to become informed because what we do early on can help guide future decisions. The Alzheimer’s Association is a great resource to become familiar with and offers topics ranging from Alzheimer’s symptoms to caregiving and medical breakthroughs. It is also one of the biggest fundraising organizations and supports the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” and the “Longest Day” activities.

Experts say it is important to remember you are not alone. Over six million people in the US are living with Alzheimer’s and millions more know someone with the disease. Although everyone experiences the disease in their own unique way, understanding the major stages of the disease helps families navigate this unexpected journey.

Alzheimer’s five distinct stages include: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI); Mild; Moderate; Severe; and Very Severe. Symptoms can vary from person to person but the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease have some common characteristics and it helps to be prepared.

To help negate the feeling of being a complete victim of your circumstances, studies show there are lifestyle changes you can make in the early stages to help improve brain health. These include exercising and eating a healthy diet as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. This is also the time to think about future financial, medical and legal decisions.

The early stages are additionally the time to build a support network and to stay engaged with friends and family. Get in the habit of using memory aids such as sticky notes or digital aids for your appointments and activities. If you find you are getting confused paying bills, keeping track of medications or having a hard time making appointments, ask for help.

Be sure to keep up with all your medical appointments including adding an Alzheimer’s specialist to your healthcare team. Ask your doctors about local organizations and services that may be helpful to you and your family now and later.

MorningStar dementia care at Bear Creek in Colorado Springs offers 48 suites for the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation. Residents receive daily health monitoring, 24/7 care from well-trained staff, with access to licensed nurses and more supportive third-party service providers. Visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving 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 satisfaction that is second to none. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Colorado Springs.

Senior Living Communities Help Keep You Socially Active

People are often surprised to learn how beneficial an active social life can be to older adults. However, it is not always easy to maintain as aging can leave many seniors feeling socially isolated and/or lonely. Hearing, vision or memory loss; chronic diseases and mobility issues can make it difficult for seniors to get out and about. Many lose social connections with the loss of a spouse, family members or friends.

The National Institute on Aging states, “Being alone may leave older adults more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can affect their health and well-being. Studies show that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.” Other associated problems include obesity, high blood pressure, weakened immune function and dementia.

One important benefit of senior living communities is the ease in which they offer built-in companionship. At MorningStar of Billings, we consider it our privilege to provide amenities and activities that engage and enhance quality of life for residents. Our fitness center, swimming pool, strolling paths and exercise classes tailored to older adults allow you to stay as active as you like. Other amenities add to the vibrant environment and offer convenience such as beautiful gathering spaces, bistro, game room, theater, salon and life enrichment room.

A look at our monthly calendar gives you an idea how many opportunities there are to stay engaged and have fun. Games, crafts, live entertainment, movie nights, coffee groups and special interest activities ensure there is something for everyone. In addition, forming new friendships is generally not a problem as you are amongst a group of like-minded adults.

Along with assisted living, we provide memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes 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.

Adopting a Pet as an Older Adult

When a senior makes the commitment to adopt a pet, it is a sign that they made a promise to invest their love and care into the upkeep of another being. Experts say this is one of the most positive things you can do as an older person. The benefit of a pet is a two-way deal as the pet gets a loving home and the person gets the satisfaction of taking care of another living thing. Also, if you do live alone, a dog can provide a good sense of security. After all, a thief doesn’t know your dog is only a pussycat in disguise.

Pets provide unconditional love and companionship and are there to support a person when needed. In fact, many pets mold their personality to their owners and seem able to read the mood of their person. Pet ownership additionally forces a person to stick to a routine as the pet is relying on them for their well-being. In other words, even if you don’t feel like getting up in the morning, your pet is counting on you. Moreover, the companionship a pet provides can help relieve the loneliness many seniors feel.

If you opt for a dog, you may need to get out and take it for a walk. Surveys show seniors who own dogs report getting more exercise than their non-dog-owner counterparts. Walking your dog may become a permanent part of your daily exercise, and your walk may include being greeted by others and engaging in conversation. Even if you have a hard time meeting new people a dog can be a wonderful icebreaker. Other duties such as taking your dog to the groomer or the vet help keep you connected to an active social life.

Before you commit to a pet, experts say to consider your physical limitations along with the animal’s need for exercise and attention as well as the cost of pet ownership. Another suggestion is to have a backup plan for pet care if you should become unable to care for it.

At MorningStar of Billings, we could not agree more about the benefits of pets. Pet friendly, our community offers assisted living suites in a range of floor plans as well as suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. For those looking for independent living, we have free-standing cottages featuring fireplaces and attached garages along with well-designed suites in our main building. All our apartments are move-in ready and all that’s missing are your personal furnishings and treasures, even the furry kind!

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 earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.