Learn More about Prediabetes

The Mayo Clinic defines prediabetes as the condition where a person’s “blood sugar level is higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes.”  They go on to say that without intervention, a person is in danger of becoming diabetic in 10 years or less; however, there are steps you can take to help prevent this from happening.   

While it is not known exactly what causes prediabetes, we do know that family history and genetics play a significant role.  The Mayo Clinic explains that the genetic link has been confirmed by research with the discovery of some insulin resistant genes.  In addition studies show that excess fat; especially abdominal fat as well as inactivity are “important factors in the development of prediabetes.” 

The job of glucose (sugar) in our bodies is to fuel the cells that make up our muscles and other tissues.  We get glucose from any food we eat that has carbohydrates and not just from sweets.  As our food is digested, glucose enters the bloodstream, and “with the help of insulin, it enters the body's cells where it is utilized as a source of energy.”   For someone who has prediabetes, it means they have stopped processing glucose properly, and it is building up in their bloodstream, no longer providing fuel for their cells.  

To help prevent prediabetes from becoming type 2 diabetes, you need to make changes in your lifestyle.  A good way to start trying to normalize your blood sugar levels is to get plenty of physical exercise, make healthier food choices, and lose weight if you carry a lot of excess body fat.    

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

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the best assisted living in Boulder Colorado.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prediabetes/basics/symptoms/con-20024420 

Looking for an Assisted Living Community?

Searching for an assisted living community for yourself or a parent can feel like an overwhelming task.  We know you want to make the best choice and there are a couple of things you may want to consider before you take such an important step.   

First, you will want to research the various options in your preferred area.  The Internet is an efficient and easy way to discover what is out there, and you will find several websites that offer a search directory of facilities.  Also you can check with your health care provider for any recommendations they may have. 

Once you have narrowed down your list to several communities in your target location, give them a call to set up a tour.  While on the phone, have a list of questions handy such as are there immediate openings available, and if not, how long is the wait, the price range and what will you see on the tour as well as how much time it will take.   

A community tour is your best opportunity to get a real feel for the place.  You want your future home to have a caring and warm staff and residents that are friendly.  If you are looking for assisted living for a family member that is not very mobile, you can tour a few and narrow down the selections so they only tour the top choices.  The Caring.com website has a checklist available for researching and touring a community that you may find helpful.   

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills, the thing we brag the most about is our atmosphere of love and community that is built on one relationship at a time.  We are MorningStar’s newest community in the Valley of the Sun, convenient to Scottsdale and Phoenix, and offer a choice of 63 private assisted living suites on two levels.  Our Reflection Neighborhood has 28 suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Please call us for more details.   

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.

Source: caring.com/articles/assisted-living-facilities-choosing-the-right-one 

Just What is Assisted Living?

The American Healthcare Association defines assisted living as “part of a continuum of long term care services that provides a combination of housing, personal care services, and health care designed to respond to individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes maximum independence.”  So rather than taking away the independence of seniors assisted living actually helps residents to maintain their independence while giving them the care they need to live comfortably and safely.   

Also please remember assisted living is not a nursing home.  It is a community designed to meets the needs and preferences of the residents and to give them their dignity, autonomy, privacy, independence, choice and safety.  While each community has its own personality, assisted living typically addresses the needs of its residents with 24-hour care services, daily meals and wellness activities.   In fact it is often more cost effective not to mention more convenient than employing a group of home health care providers. 

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we feel honored to serve seniors, and as such, our entire staff strives to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Once you decide to join our Arrowhead family, our Wellness Director will sit down with you and your family to set up a care plan that addresses your every need.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing our around-the-clock Care Managers are available to ensure the comfort and safety of their loved one.   

Our community opened in September of 2015 and is conveniently located on the north-side of Glendale.  We offer 60 private assisted living suites on two levels, which are available in an array of configurations including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Please visit our website and use our online form to schedule a tour or for pricing and availability information.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for our residents.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand the area’s best senior living in the Glendale AZ area.

Sources:

ahcancal.org/ncal/about/assistedliving/Pages/What-is-Assisted-Living.aspx

www.aplaceformom.com/blog/things-you-didnt-know-about-assisted-living-2-19-2012/

 

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease

In spite of all of the research done on Alzheimer’s and dementia, there is still no single test used to diagnose the disease.  Rather the Alzheimer’s Association explains that a diagnosis is made based on “a careful medical history, a physical examination, laboratory tests, and the characteristic changes in thinking, day-to-day function and behavior associated with each type.” 

In some cases a person with signs of the disease may be referred to a neurologist or geri-psychologist to ensure an accurate diagnosis.  Laboratory testing includes blood tests and brain imaging, which are used to rule out other causes that may be contributing to dementia-like symptoms.  Other conditions doctors are looking for are signs of depression, drug interactions, thyroid problems, excessive use of alcohol and vitamin deficiencies.  If memory loss does stem from any of these other causes, it can be dealt with and generally reversed.   

Although Alzheimer’s cannot be cured, the Alzheimer’s Association emphasizes the importance of getting an early diagnosis as it gives someone a better chance of benefiting from available treatments.  If you need the name of a physician who is experienced in Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, contact your local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association for a referral.  In addition the organization offers a worksheet that you can fill out beforehand to help prepare for your visit with your physician.  

Another reason why it is beneficial to understand what is happening to you or your loved one is that it not only can lessen anxieties, but also provides your family more time to prepare for the future.  Knowing what lies ahead also offers the individual an opportunity to be involved in future plans such as living options, care, transportation and financial matters.   

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.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers_disease_diagnosis.asp

MorningStar of Boulder’s Memory Care

At MorningStar of Boulder, memory care takes place within our Reflections Neighborhood.  We offer 46 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and can accommodate those in the onset of the disease right through to the more advanced stages. The philosophy motivating our care is based on one of MorningStar’s mission statements that says, “To value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.” From this principle comes our attentiveness to the unique voice, the rights and preferences, of each resident. 

We have a deep understanding of the different forms of dementia including Alzheimer’s that helps us to compassionately care for our memory impaired residents and to find the best ways to interact and communicate with them.  MorningStar’s specially trained staff uses an array of multi-sensory activities including art, dance, music, aromatherapy, life skills, exercise and animals to heal and comfort.    

Furthermore, we take the time to get to know a resident through interviews with their family members in order to learn about their history, vocation, talents and preferences.  We then use this knowledge to help us design an individualized care plan for the person.   

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, scheduled outings and special events, and an enclosed, secure patio and courtyard.  Our memory care suites accommodate a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they are sure to feel right at home.  Contact us to learn more about our beautiful assisted living and memory care community on the southeast side of the beautiful mountain town of Boulder.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the best assisted living in Boulder Colorado.

Does Your Parent Require Help with the Activities of Daily Living?

We know that seniors value their independence and that many are reluctant to let families and friends know they may need more help.  Often older adults fear they may become a burden or worry their family.  However experts advise that even if your parent is not expressing a need for more help, there are signs to look for that indicate they need it.   

Michael Perskin, a geriatrician at NYU Langone Health explains that, “Sometimes you’re shocked when you visit.”  He adds it is troubling if “you walk into a parent’s house and the bathrooms are dirty or there’s no food in the refrigerator.”   Other signs include weight loss and a generally decline in their appearance.  Often older adults in need of more care can no longer safely bath themselves and their health problems can make dressing difficult.  

Driving can also become a problem for seniors and evidence of scrapes and dents on their car may indicate they should not be driving anymore.  For other seniors, failing eyesight can make driving at night or in rainy or snowy weather difficult and can result in missed doctor appointments or not able to buy groceries and run errands.    

At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our expertise is to fill in the gaps and provide the level of care you or your loved needs.  We offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community that includes three daily nutritional meals, the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs, and to enjoy ready-made companionship.   

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents, we have 24/7 care managers, a full-time nurse, suites equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  We encourage you to visit our website and use our online form to set up a tour of our gorgeous, loving community.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for our residents.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand the area’s best senior living in the Glendale AZ area.

Source: health.usnews.com/senior-care/caregiving/articles/2018-02-09/what-are-the-signs-your-aging-parents-need-help

Questions to Ask at Your Doctor Visit

Too often right after a visit to our doctor’s, we think of a question that we wished we had asked.  This is the reason why the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has put together a list of questions you should take a look at before your next visit. 

The purpose of the questionnaire is to facilitate better communication between a patient and their doctor, and the AHRQ stresses the fact that by asking questions and getting answers will help to improve the quality of your care.  They state that, “Talking with your doctor builds trust and leads to better results, quality, safety, and satisfaction.”  Furthermore, by preparing questions beforehand to ask your doctor, it allows you to more efficiently use your time and not feel as rushed.    

Questions from the AHRQ include: what is the test for; how many times have you done this procedure; when will I get the results; and why do I need this treatment.  They also suggest that you ask if there are any alternative treatments, what are the possible complications, and which hospital is best for my needs.  Other questions include asking how to spell the name of the drug and are there are any side effects.  The last question, and an important one, is how will this new medication interact with the other medicines I am currently taking.  

Experts explain that rather than being reluctant to be asked these questions that doctors and nurses actually welcome them.  It assures them that you understand the information and are actively partnering with them in your care. 

The AHRQ website further adds that it may be helpful to take a family member or trusted friend with you to an appointment to assist you in understanding and remembering all of the answers to your questions.  The site also offers a list of questions to think about after your appointment.   

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.

Source:  ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/ask-your-doctor/index.html

Choosing a Memory Care Community

If your parent or spouse is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, at some point, you may need to find a community that specializes in caring for them.  Given the progression of the disease, your loved one may eventually require 24-hour supervised care that is specifically designed to provide the level of safety and care they need.  

What important questions should you ask when looking for specialized care for a family member with a dementia related disease?  One of their first recommendations is to make sure that the memory care community you are considering is fully equipped to care for the needs of your loved one.    

In order to determine the level of care your parent or spouse requires, they suggest making a list of their medical and physical needs starting with their level of mobility and do they use a walker or wheelchair?  Also besides dementia, what other illnesses or health concerns do they suffer from?  It is important to explain any issues your loved one may have regarding aggression or other behaviors.   

Next you need to ask the community some questions beginning with the staff to resident ratio during the day as well as at night and what type training does the staff go through.  Be sure to ask whether there is a nurse on staff and if the place has a visiting physician.  Also are residents given an individualized plan?  Furthermore, what are the living arrangements and security measures in place to ensure the safety of residents?  Do residents have a separate dining area and a safe outdoor space?  

Now ask questions about the community’s treatment plans and the type of care they provide to residents.  Do they engage in programs such as pet, music and/or reminiscence therapy?  Are residents grouped according to cognitive level and is there a place for those in the early stages?  Finally, after thorough consideration, you may just need to trust your instincts and choose the place you feel will provide the best care for your loved one.    

This post is for information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical advice. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other assisted living communities.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to creating a true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best memory care in Boise.

Source:aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/memory-care-checklist 

MorningStar’s Special Events and Activities

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills, our goal is to provide seniors a true home where they can enjoy their retirement years as carefree as possible.  As such, our community offers all kinds of activities and entertainment in an atmosphere that fosters companionship, socialization, and just pure fun. 

For example, by taking a quick look at our February newsletter, you can see our residents had an opportunity to thoroughly enjoy themselves on Valentine’s Day.  On February 14th our Certified Executive Chef, Mike DeGiovanni, took our residents on a world tour of chocolate.  Each rich and creamy bite was paired with the perfect wine. What a taste sensation!

And the “Life Around Our House” section on our website shows photos of our lovely holiday season.  From trimming the tree and decorating door wreathes for each resident, to making gingerbread houses, fun was had by all. In addition, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church came to perform carols for us, bringing joy to residents and families with every note.

Another special day for our MorningStar residents was Veteran Day, November 11th. We proudly honored our resident veterans with a formal military ceremony, welcoming the help of our local Marine Corp League and American Legion. Our program included the posting of the colors, prayers, Pledge of Allegiance and a Veterans Day message from Marine Corps League’s Chris Brant.

This is just a sampling of some of the special events that are in addition to our regularly scheduled activities that take place every month at MorningStar of Fountain Hills.  We invite you and your family to schedule a tour to come and experience firsthand our gorgeous community and discover why so many seniors are glad to call it home. 

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.

Get Answers to FAQs

If you are looking for assisted living for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Arrowhead, which is conveniently located in Glendale, AZ.  We are proud to report that while we opened only three years ago, we have already earned a reputation as one of the best communities for senior living in the area. 

Although we strongly recommend that families schedule a tour to experience our community firsthand, we give you lots of information in advance on our website under a section entitled “FAQ.”  This section is intended to provide answers to many questions families have when deciding if MorningStar at Arrowhead is the best option for them.   

We start by answering some questions regarding our company.  You will learn that MorningStar is not just a family of senior living communities, but what we refer to as “senior loving homes.” We feel it is not only our privilege to serve but our pleasure to love all those beneath our roof.  In addition our staff is made up of individuals that have servants’ hearts and are prepared to meet the needs of others.  Our unique Radiance program guides the way we provide our service and is designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.   

Our FAQs further explains MorningStar’s various senior living options.  Our assisted living suites are available to individuals 62 years and older and offer compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting.  Trained care managers are onsite 24/7 to monitor our residents’ health and make adjustments in care as needed.  At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we offer both assisted living and memory care.    

You will also find answers to how we determine the level of care we provide to residents.  Once you commit to MorningStar, our Wellness Director will assess your current health, and review your medical history to ascertain how we can best meet your needs.  At this time, we discuss your personal preferences and routines to help us create a customized care plan. Please visit our website for more information, and while you are there, set up a tour of our beautiful community.   

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Built on a foundation of honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for our residents.  Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand the area’s best senior living in the Glendale AZ area.

Meaningful Activities and Special Events at MorningStar

At MorningStar of Boulder, our residents and staff work hand-in-hand to create a loving, warm community.  Part of our family-like atmosphere comes from making memories and sharing special moments together.  Each month our calendar is filled with daily activities as well as an array of special outings and programs.   

Our community is very lucky to receive visits once a month from the students of Summit Middle School. In February, the students helped residents prepare a Valentine’s poster using finger prints, which was displayed in the dining room. They also prepared adorable handmade Valentines to hang over the fireplace. 

Other examples of activities and special events at MorningStar in the month of February involved a Gentlemen’s Breakfast at the Walnut Cafe, a Ladies’ Breakfast at Doug’s Day Diner, several scenic drives, and lunch at BJ’s Brewhouse.  Some of our daily activities included Zumba, Baking Group, Movie Nights and much more.

MorningStar of Boulder is located on the southeast side of the celebrated mountain town of Boulder.  In total we have 48 private assisted living suites as well as 46 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Our beautiful suites are available in a variety of configurations and smartly-designed to meet the needs of our residents.   

If carefree retirement years amid beautiful surroundings, resort-style amenities, and fun-filled and meaningful activities sound good, MorningStar of Boulder is the place for you.  We encourage you to schedule a visit to our community to find out for yourself why our residents are proud to call it home.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the best assisted living in Boulder Colorado.

Eye Exam Recommendations as You Age

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that “adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease should receive a baseline comprehensive eye evaluation at age 40. Individuals without risk factors aged 40 to 54 should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 2 to 4 years.  Individuals without risk factors aged 55 to 64 should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 1 to 3 years.”  They add that seniors 65 years and older without risk factors should be examined by an ophthalmologist every 1 to 2 years as the incidence of unrecognized ocular disease increases with age.

Since many age-related eye problems do not exhibit early symptoms, getting regular eye exams and being aware of any changes to your vision is critical.  In addition it is important to remember that other health problems such as diabetes and hypertension as well as some medication can cause eye-related issues.

Your exam should include a check of your vision, coordination of eye muscles, peripheral vision, pupil response to light and color testing.  Also the doctor will examine your eyelid inside and out along with the interior and back of the eye.  A measurement of your eye fluid pressure will also be done that consists of a puff of air onto the eye with an instrument called a tonometer.   This is used to check for glaucoma and other diseases.

Furthermore, you may be monitored for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) disease.  This test includes trying to detect and monitor conditions affecting the macula by examining the back of your eye using special instruments.  If you do not already have an eye doctor, see your health care provider for a referral.  

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please consult with your health care provider if you notice any changes in your vision.

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.

Source:  http://www.aao.org/clinical-statement/frequency-of-ocular-examinations--november-2009