Chance of High Blood Pressure Increases with Age

The older you become the more likely it is that you will be diagnosed with high blood pressure (HBP).  Hypertension is a blood pressure reading of over 140 (upper number or systolic pressure), and higher than 90 (lower number or diastolic pressure).  Systolic pressure is the number measured when your heart beats and diastolic is the number when your heart is at rest between beats.   You can have HBP for years and not experience any symptom which is why it is known as the silent killer.  HBP is the blood pushing against artery walls more forcefully (higher pressure) which is how damage is caused over a period of time.   People with HPB are at an added risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious complications.

Blood pressure should be checked on several different occasions over a period of a couple of weeks.  Blood pressure can be checked at home with a home blood pressure measurement device or monitor. It is important that you know how to use the monitor correctly and that the cuff fits you properly. For example, a cuff that is too small may give you a reading that is higher than it actually is.

Once it is established that you have suffer from hypertension, there are a number of things you can do to improve the situation.  It is recommended that you:

• Limit your intake of sodium (some studies suggest no more than a teaspoon a day)
• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
• Control your weight, and if you have a high BMI, try and reduce your weight
• Follow the DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension which is a low-fat diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and grains

There are several different categories of drugs that are used to treat hypertension.  Sometimes a doctor may prescribe a combination of drugs.  Even with taking the medications, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle. 

For informational purposes only, please consult your health care provider if you have any questions regarding your health. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/high-blood-pressure/

nihseniorhealth.gov/highbloodpressure/symptomsanddiagnosis/01.html

Our Caregivers are the Heart of MorningStar

At MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Boulder, we recognize that our wonderful assortment of amenities and our beautiful surroundings are fantastic; however, we know that the real heart of our community rest in our caregivers.  We have made it a point to hire individuals who have a real calling to serve seniors and understand the magnitude of their contribution when they work at our assisted living community.     

The MorningStar team consists of a group of people who have perfected the art of anticipating the needs of our residents and going the extra mile to serve them.   Filled with compassion and care, each of our staff members has a smile for the residents and is as quick to listen to a story as they are to lend a helping hand when needed.   

In fact as part of MorningStar’s on-going commitment to the well-being and care of our residents, we train all of our new hires as well as reiterate every day with our full staff the principles of our mission.  Our Radiance program teaches and celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place like a beam of light and reinforces our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.  MorningStar was founded on the premise that we operate with “servants’ hearts” and our Radiance program gives us the framework that enables us to take service professionalism to the next level.     

We are sure that once you learn more about our community you will agree with us that MorningStar is a great place to call home.  Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself our loving, home-like community.

 MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.      

 

Reduce the Risk of Shingles

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that almost 1 out 3 people in the U.S. will develop shingles, also known as zoster or herpes, at some point in their lives and that 50% of those cases occur in women and men 60 years and older. With approximately 1 million cases reported each year, you can get shingles if you have ever had chickenpox as the varicella-zoster virus remains inactive in nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain. 

The Mayo Clinic says symptoms can occur anywhere on the body but “most often appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or the right side of your torso.”   While not life-threatening, the rash is very painful and complications from shingles include a long-lasting pain known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) that can last for months or even years.  

Generally the first symptom is pain, and given the common location around the trunk, it can be confused with problems of the heart, lungs or kidneys.  The course of the disease can be improved and shortened with early treatment and a vaccine can lessen the risk of getting shingles.  While some people will never develop a rash, you need to see a doctor immediately if you suspect shingles.    

According to the Mayo Clinic common symptoms include:  

• pain, burning, numbness or tingling
• sensitivity to touch
• a red rash that begins a few days after the pain
• fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over
• itching 

Other symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue and sensitivity to light. The CDC recommends that anyone 60 years or older should get a shingles vaccine even if they have already had the disease as it can prevent future occurrences.  

The CDC states that, “Zostavax® is the only shingles vaccine currently approved for use in the United States.”  They add that, “This vaccine reduces the risk of developing shingles by 51% and PHN by 67%.”  A shingles vaccine requires just one dose and can be done by your doctor or at a pharmacy.   

For informational purposes only, please consult your health care provider if you have any questions regarding your health.  

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/shingles/basics/definition/con-20019574

Make the Best of Your Senior Years

The website, Everyday Health Media reports that you can expect to live on average another 19.2 years if you reach the age of 65.  However they explain in order to be one of those lucky enough to live to be 85 years or older, you need to carefully manage your chronic health conditions and follow good health habits.   

Aging experts such as Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School, explains, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet and also make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.”  She adds that it is helpful to include a geriatrician on your health care team. 

Furthermore, it is never too late to begin improving your health.  Whether you are suffering from diabetes, heart disease, or many other chronic health problems, doctors say you can benefit from even a moderate amount of physical activity.  Engaging in physical activity helps to make your bones and muscles stronger and can lessen your risk for falls.  Also if you do have a fall, your bones will be stronger and less likely to break.  Additionally research shows that physical activity is as good for your brain as it is for your body, but before you embark on any new physical activity, please talk to your physician.   

The FamilyDoctor.org website suggests that walking may be the easiest exercise for seniors as you can start at your own pace and you do not need any special equipment.  They also recommend gardening, dancing, swimming, Tai chi or yoga as good exercises for seniors.  

One of the many benefits of living at MorningStar of Boulder is that we make it easy for seniors to live a healthy lifestyle.  Our meals are both tasty as well as healthy and we offer lots of fun physical activities to keep our residents moving.  Please see our website to learn more about the best senior living community in Boulder! 

Our post is for information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for seeking the advice of your health care provider.

 MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.     

everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/ 

//familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html   

 

Addressing Risk Factors to Prevent Falls in the Elderly

We know that falls can be dangerous, and in fact, they are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) statistics state that one-quarter of Americans age 65 years and older fall each year.  They report that, “every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.” 

However, there are several risk factors that can be addressed that may help prevent falls.  The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that it is not only chronic health conditions that lead to falls but also safety hazards within or around a senior’s home.  

The NIH cites muscle weakness, especially in the legs, along with a lack of flexibility and endurance as a significant risk factor that puts seniors at risk for a fall.  Another factor increasing risk is an unsteady gait when walking as well as poor balance, which can be contributed to chronic health problems and lack of exercise.  In addition, older adults need to be sure to wear safe footwear and should avoid backless shoes or slippers, high-heeled shoes or shoes with smooth soles.    

Furthermore, a condition known as postural hypotension (when blood pressure drops too quickly when getting up from a lying down or sitting position) can increase the risk of falling.  There are several chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s or diabetes as well as certain medications that can cause this to happen.  Also, vision problems, sensory difficulties, confusion and medications can lead to dizziness and unsteadiness, and result in a fall.   

The NIH advises seniors to report any fall to their doctor as is may be a sign of a “new medical problem that needs attention, such as an infection or a cardiovascular disorder.”  It could also be a signal that your medication needs to be adjusted or changed.   

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living in the Scottsdale/Fountain Hills area.

Sources:

ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/

nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/causesandriskfactors/01.html

Our Residents Live Each Day to the Fullest

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we know our residents bring a wide range of backgrounds and diverse interests and hobbies to our community. This is why we offer lots of great activities that are designed to enrich the lives of our residents and allow them to enjoy each day to the fullest. 

As we know it is beneficial for older adults to keep as physically fit as possible, our community has a fitness center as well as a monthly calendar filled with a variety of physical activities.  We start most mornings with an exercise class and our other offerings include Aerobic Boogie, MorningStar Steppers, and Gentle Yoga. 

If you are a trivia wiz and enjoy playing games, we have you covered.  Each month residents have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities including 50 cent bingo, trivia and card games, crossword puzzles, Mexican Train Dominos and more.  In addition, our monthly calendar is filled with other activities such as crafty creations, arm chair travels, happy hours, movie nights and much more.  In fact, if we do not offer something you are interested in, we can probably help to get it organized.   

We also have fun marking each holiday with celebrations as well as special entertainment and events within our community.  Our residents take advantage of scheduled transportation to get out and about town as well as participate in special outings. Contact us to schedule a tour and discover for yourself why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home”. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Want to Experience the Top Senior Living Community in Boulder?

While our website has a whole gallery of photos of our beautiful, welcoming home, we still don’t think that all the pictures in the world can express the the real essence of MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder.  This is why we encourage anyone interested in our community to set up a tour to see why residents are proud to call MorningStar home and to experience firsthand the “love and sincerity in the air.”    

We make it easy to schedule a visit and even provide advice on how to get the most out your time with us.  Use the link on our home page to provide us with your contact info and someone from our team will be in touch with you to schedule a day and time that is convenient for you.  

While we are excited to know you are interested in finding out more about our community and will tailor the tour to your priorities, we ask that you set aside at least 45 minutes to get a full idea of what we are about.  In addition you are more than welcome to join us for lunch and experience our daily culinary delights (please let us know when you set up the tour) and if so, plan to be here for around 90 minutes total.      

Before you come in, we encourage you to browse through our website to learn more about MorningStar of Boulder’s community as well as to take a look at some of the resources we offer families.  Our FAQ’s provide answers to many questions but if you do not find the information you need, be sure to write it down so you remember to ask us when you take your tour. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.        

How to Avoid Dangerous Medication Interactions

Often seniors take multiple medications daily that in some cases have been prescribed by a couple of different doctors for different conditions.  In addition they may also be taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications.  All of this can lead to problems with drug interactions and side effects that range from mild to severe including death. 

In a recent report by the US News & World Report, it cites statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that suggest each year there are four visits to the ER per 1,000 adults attributed to adverse drug effects.  First published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, statistics find that almost 60 percent of Americans take at “least one prescription drug, and nearly 20 percent are taking more than five prescriptions medicines.”  The study also looked at OTC medications and warns that there is a huge potential for “side effects, drug-drug interactions and negative outcomes.”  It also states that for the elderly, the possibility of dangerous drug interactions is even greater.   

One of the most important things that a patient or family member can do to reduce the likelihood of this happening is to communicate with all of your health care providers about the prescription and OTC medications that you take.   It is a good idea, especially if you take more than one medications, to write down the names of the drugs and the amount you take each day and carry it in your wallet.  You can also take a picture of the list of medications with your cell phone so you always have it handy.  Another tip is to fill your prescriptions at the same drug store and to build a relationship with the pharmacist as he or she can help to spot potential problems involving drug interactions.   

Annually review the need for each medication with your health care provider and discuss how long you will need to take the drug.  Lastly be sure to check each new prescription container for accuracy as pharmacies sometimes do make mistakes.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Source:health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/the-dangers-of-medication-mix-ups-at-home

 

Caring for an Alzheimer’s Patient Can be Overwhelming

The Alzheimer’s Association states that the number of adults suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is increasing and there is now an estimated 5.3 million Americans with the disease.  They add that every 66 seconds someone comes down with the disease.  Among that number includes approximately 200,000 people who are under the age of 65 who have younger-onset Alzheimer's.   Experts also predicts that as we continue to live longer, the number of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s will  grow to 7.1 million adults by 2025.  Right now it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and currently, cannot be prevented or cured.

These sobering statistics mean that more families are finding themselves in the situation of having a family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  For those who are family caregivers, the Alzheimer's Association found it can take an overwhelming toll on them both physically and emotionally.  Their studies show that close to 60 percent of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers “rate their stress level as high or very high.”  Approximately 40 percent of family caregivers suffer from depression and required healthcare services related to the emotional and physical toll of their caregiving. 

Experts recommend that if you are family caregiver that you reach out for help from a variety of sources including relatives, friends, and local community organizations.  Caregiver support groups can also be helpful as you can connect with other who are dealing with the same problems.  Respite care and day care centers can also give you some relief from the responsibility and difficulties of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.   

Another solution is to contact MorningStar of Boulder and learn about our experienced and compassionate memory care.  Along with 48 bright suites for assisted living, we also have 46 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please see our website for more information about the loving approach we take to memory care. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.   

Sources: alz.org/facts/overview.asp#prevalence

familydoctor.org/caring-for-a-relative-who-has-dementia/

Growing Numbers Moving to Senior Living Communities

The US News & World Report recently published an article on the growing demand for senior living communities as the number of elderly adults in the U.S increases.  The Census Bureau predicts that the number of people age 85 and older will grow to 6.6 million and make up almost 2 percent of the population by 2020, which is an increase of 800,000 from 2010.  Moreover, the figure is expected to go up to more than 19 million by 2050, and by 2060, nearly 100 million Americans will be 65 years or older.   

While the increasing number of seniors in the U.S. is most likely due to older adults living longer as well as the baby boom that occurred after World War II, more and more seniors are recognizing the advantages of aging in place among their peers.  Senior living communities offer the benefit of a less demanding, more carefree lifestyle and virtually eliminate the problem of social isolation and loneliness.   

Furthermore, today’s senior living communities are worlds apart from the old days when nursing homes were the only option for the elderly.  In addition assisted living and memory care communities provide the daily care personal services that many elderly adults require as well as a whole host of amenities and services.   According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care, “There are about 22,000 senior housing and care properties in the U.S.”  

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead is one of the area’s finest senior living communities.  Located on the north side of Glendale AZ in the popular residential neighborhood of Arrowhead, we offer 60 private suites for assisted living in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Also, our Reflections Neighborhood has 25 secure suites devoted to the specialized care for those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Source:money.usnews.com/investing/articles/2017-01-06/how-to-invest-in-an-aging-population

 

Type 2 Diabetes is One Disease that can be Controlled

A recently published report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than 100 million adults in the U.S. are now living with diabetes or prediabetes.  As of 2015, 30.3 million Americans (9.4 percent of the U.S. population) have diabetes and another 84.1 million have prediabetes.  Rates of diabetes increase as people age, and among those 65 years and older, 25 percent have diabetes.

That means more than one-third of U.S. adults have prediabetes, which is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes.   The CDC warns that if prediabetes is left untreated and steps are not taken to make healthier lifestyle choices as many as 15 to 30 percent of those people will have type 2 diabetes within five years.  Furthermore, one of their biggest concerns is the fact that the majority of people with prediabetes do not know it.   

While diabetes may be a common disease, self-management is a very important aspect of how well someone lives with the disease.  Organizations like the CDC and the American Diabetes Association strongly encourage anyone with the disease to get educated and learn about the latest medical therapies and treatment options.  

Your lifestyle can make a difference in managing or reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes including adopting healthier eating habits, increasing your physical activity, and maintaining or losing a modest amount of weight.   If you already have diabetes, these changes can help control the severity of the disease.

If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, are overweight or lead a sedentary lifestyle, you may be at risk for developing diabetes.  The American Diabetes Association warns that many of the symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed but early detection and treatment of the disease is important and can decrease the risk of developing complications.  They recommend discussing any concerns with your doctor. 

Our post is for information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for seeking the advice of your health care provider.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.   

Source:

cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p0718-diabetes-report.html

Care Specifically Designed for Those with Dementia

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you may be coming to the realization that their needs are more than you can manage on your own and are ready for help.  If that sounds like you, it is now time to start researching the various care options in your area. 

One choice is to place your family member in a facility specifically designed to serve the needs of those with dementia.  Memory care provides long-term, intensive care that is more specialized and comprehensive than assisted living.  Most are equipped to care for residents at all stages of the disease and include 24-hour supervision.  The facilities are secure to   reduce the risks of wandering and many have features such as color-coding to help residents safely navigate through the hallways. 

You will also find the best memory care communities provide programs that address the needs of residents such as helping to calm or provide stimulation as needed and can actually offer your loved one a better quality of life.  Communities that provide memory care report they are able to reduce medications and medication side effects as well as increase nutrition and wellness.  They also say residents have fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; along with more independence and social interactions. Most importantly, memory care facilities cite that as many as three-fourths of their residents experience improvement or maintain their level of mental functioning.

If you are in the Boulder area, we encourage you to visit our website.  MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Boulder has 46 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood that are devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s or other types of memory loss.  

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct 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 are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.  

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-11-4-memory-care/