A Choice of Stylish Suites Designed to Meet Your Every Need

 The MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community has 61 assisted living suites and 27 memory care suites in a variety of configurations including studio and one-and two-bedroom floorplans as large as 928 sq. ft.  Boasting a gorgeous interior that was designed by the award-winning senior living interior design company, Thoma-Holec Design, our lovely home exudes welcoming, comfort throughout our expansive common areas.  

However our stylish designs do not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall- carpeting and mini blinds as well as kitchenettes with full-size apartment refrigerators.   For residents’ peace of mind and safety, our suites are also equipped with an emergency call system to ensure help is there if the need arises as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms.  

On our website’s home page take the link to our Suite Features & Floor Plans for a printable file of floor plans that showcase several different configurations.  From there we suggest you take a look at our Gallery page to view pictures of our suites as well as some of our common areas, which highlight many of our unique architectural features.     

Situated on 2-acres, our beautiful 3-story community is conveniently located in a southeastern suburb of Portland.   In addition to a whole range of care services and amenities, we are run by a team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve.  Moreover we want you to know that we continue to track the pandemic’s real-time status as closely as possible, and adhere to the changing guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and our State’s health and safety framework to ensure the health of all those beneath our roof.  Please visit our website for contact information.  We are happy to answer any question and would love to talk to you about availability and pricing.      

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us to learn more about one of the top assisted living & memory care communities in Happy Valley.

Need More Info Regarding Our Assisted Living?

 If you are looking for the best senior housing Rio Rancho offers, we invite you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  Newly opened early last year, we have quickly earned a reputation for providing trusted, compassionate assisted living and memory care. 

We know that if you are a family member searching for the right home for a parent, you most likely have quite a few questions.  This is why we put together a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provide some background on our company.  For instance our home page offers a great description of our home, brief backgrounds on our Management Team, and links to a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming comfort and beautiful design.        

Our home page also has a link to Community Amenities that describes many of the resort-style amenities we offer along with some of our care services.  In addition use the link to our Suite Features & Floor Plans that highlights the many comforts within our 51 private assisted living suites and 26 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and no we do not expect you to leave your furry, four-footed family member behind as we are pet friendly.  

More questions are answered on our FAQ page including a brief description of how each resident’s level of care is determined.  We are sure you will be impressed with MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s modern interiors, which are the creation of the award-winning senior living design specialist, Thoma-Holec Design.  In addition expansive outdoor areas include courtyards decorated with artwork and trellises, strolling paths, raised gardening beds, and an outdoor kitchen, barbecue and fire pit.  Please visit our website for links to availability and pricing and our contact information.   

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Rethinking Our Attitude toward Alzheimer’s Disease

 

While a 2012 survey found that more Americans fear Alzheimer’s disease than they do cancer, many professionals are starting to rethink our attitude toward the disease. Bill Thomas, a geriatrician who is trying to reframe people’s view on aging, says for many the disease has been “swathed in shame” and stuck in what he call “the tragedy narrative.” Without dismissing the challenges of the disease, he and other experts say that it may be beneficial to both caregivers and patients to take an adaptive approach to dealing with Alzheimer’s that is more flexible, spontaneous, and expansive.

Mary Fridley, co-creator of a workshop called The Joy of Dementia (You’ve Got to Be Kidding!), stresses that in spite of the fact that we know dementia to be extremely painful, she feels too much time is spent on medicalizing the disease. Rather she truly believes “it is an opportunity, if people so choose, to be improvisational, to be silly, to play, to free ourselves from the constraints of truth and knowing and assumptions.”

One study out of Canada supports this premise by reporting that dementia patients’ symptoms declined and their psychologically outlook greatly improved after 12-weeks of visits from “elder clowns” who engage them with empathy, humor, and improvisation. Another recent study from Australia found that “dementia-care staff with positive attitudes and ‘person-centered’ strategies felt more competent about their ability to provide care.”

The MorningStar at Englefield Green is a specialized memory care home in Boise, Idaho that provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach is designed to comfort and heal as we find ways to help residents celebrate life and experience spontaneous moments of joy. If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help, please contact us.

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 one of the area’s most compassionate Alzheimer’s care homes.

Source: mercurynews.com/2019/02/21/a-joyful-existence-with-alzheimers-yes-joyful/

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Will

 A recent 2020 survey from Caring.com reports that the number of American adults (just 32 percent) who have a will or other estate-planning documents has dropped 25% since 2017.  Turns out many people say they do not know how to do it or worry it may be too expensive.  Others say they have not had time to do it, or think they do not have enough assets to make one necessary.  

A trust and estate attorney, Hugh Drake, a partner at Brown, Hay & Stephens in Springfield, Illinois and vice-chair of the Trust and Estate Division of the American Bar Association, says that while estate planning may not be fun, it does offer peace of mind.  He also explains, “It’s not the value of the estate that determines the need for a will;” but adds, “Knowing who will be in charge of resolving administrative issues and who will be the recipients of the assets will avoid a lot of anxiety, consternation and conflict among family members."

While experts say you do not need the services of an attorney, but if you draw one up yourself, you should have one review it.  In addition they offer tips to avoid making preventable mistakes.   The first is to make sure you sign it properly.  This involves two witnesses who were present when you signed it, to sign it, and neither should be a beneficiary.  Other pitfalls that may make your intentions unclear include not properly listing all your assets or not fully describing a particular asset or the name of the person to whom you want it to go to.  Additionally many DIY wills do not provide alternatives for the death of the executor or beneficiaries.  By obtaining the services of an experienced attorney, most of these problems can be avoided.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Visit our website for more regarding trusted senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2020/6-common-mistakes-people-make-writing-a-will.html

Dealing with Grief in a Pandemic

 For far too many, the holidays and the months that follow will be spent grieving a loved one.  In normal times, the death of a loved one meant gathering family and friends together to support the bereaved and to honor the deceased; but now families have had to settle for much smaller funerals or put off funerals and memorial services altogether until sometime in the future.  Also being at home alone in a house that was once shared by someone who has passed away makes the grief that much stronger.  

Grief expert Robert Neimeyer, a psychologist and director of the Portland Institute for Loss and Transition in Portland, Oregon, explains that this can result in a “broken web of connection, which creates what we psychologists call unfinished business in bereavement.”  Moreover experts say COVID-19 has caused other types of grieving such as the loss of financial security, the loss of close contact with family and friends, and the loss of our sense of freedom to move about.   

The AARP reports that these types of grief are contributing to what psychologists call “complicated grief, one that's more difficult, intense, prolonged and disruptive than usual.”  This is why professionals stress the importance of people reaching out to make contact with those in the grieving process through phone or video calls.  If a family member seems to be struggling with accepting the death, it may help to have them set up a telehealth visit with a grief counselor or to join an online support group.  Other strategies that may help include anxiety-reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi, meditation or relaxation techniques.  

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community, we provide the support services and physical environment to enable older adults to live as comfortably and as safely as possible.  In addition to 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, and wellness activities, we routinely do Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews.  Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful home.     

 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us for more information on one of the area’s most trusted senior living communities. 

Source: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/covid19-changes-grieving.html

As the Year Draws to an End, It is a Good Time to Express Our Gratitude

 As 2020 winds down, it is an excellent time to give thanks for our many blessings.  While it has been a tough year for us all, there are still things we can find to be thankful for including our families and friends.  In fact in troubling times, we are not as likely to take them for granted but rather recognize how truly important they are to us.  

Showing gratitude to others does not necessarily mean buying expensive gifts. One of the simplest things we can do is to express kindness through our words.  They do not have to be flowery and poetic but just speak to how good a person makes us feel and how much we cherished their friendship.  Heartfelt words can help a person feel appreciated, loved and valued and are “a healing balm to a troubled soul.”   

While the pandemic means we are not visiting others as we normally would have, it does not prevent us from reaching out by phone, email, snail mail, or video calls.  Especially if you know someone who is alone and away from their family, a phone call or greeting card is sure to cheer them up.  If you can, think about sending flowers or a small gift to express your gratitude for them being in your life and to let them know they are important to you.    

If you are still running your own errands, ask a friend who is sheltering in place if you can pick up something for them.  If you cook, make extra and drop a meal off at their home or do the same with a tray of homemade baked goods.   Whatever way you decide to express gratitude you will not only make someone feel good but you are sure to feel good yourself.   

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho senior living community, we bring to the area the most loving, luxurious senior housing Rio Rancho offers.  We invite you to visit our website for more information regarding availability and pricing on trusted assisted living and memory care.  We look forward to hearing from you.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Please visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.  

Source: psychcentral.com/blog/10-ways-to-express-gratitude/

Can You Afford Assisted Living?

 If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure your comfort and wellbeing.  We are certain MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ well-designed suites and welcoming common areas will impress you from the first but the thing we are most proud of is our dedicated, loving care team. 

We want you to know that we do our best to help make assisted living affordable to potential residents.  In fact, once you reach out to us, our knowledgeable team will be resourceful on your behalf in as many facets of senior life as possible including your ability to pay for the care you need.  

To start with, consider the fact that you most likely have numerous financial resources available to you beyond your retirement savings and investments.  Moreover, as we want to make sure you get advice from experts, we have partnered with Elderlife Financial Services, a company with over 20 years of experience helping thousands of families transition loved ones into senior living.  For a free financial consultation, we have their contact information on our website, or just ask and we will be happy to give it to you.   

Here are a few examples of resources that may be available to help you pay for assisted living.  Depending on the policy, long-term care insurance can help pay for a variety of services in senior communities, and can offer care options often not covered through federal subsidies of Medicare and Medicaid (see below section).  Another source of untapped funding could be from whole life and universal life insurance policies.  However, as there can be tax consequences, it may be in your best interest to consult Elderlife Financial Services for their advice.  Other sources of income could include the sale of your home, a reverse mortgage, or a bridge loan.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are set in a warm, loving environment with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Every Aspect of Our Community is Designed to Feel Like Home!

 The moment you step inside the MorningStar of Happy Valley’s gorgeous assisted living and memory care community you are sure to feel right at home.  In fact we have gotten used to hearing the surprise in visitors’ voices as they express their delight with our warm, welcoming atmosphere.  Moreover while you are sure to be impressed with our architectural design, we can guarantee that once you meet our staff, you will be most impressed with their kindness and compassion.   

From the top down, MorningStar of Happy Valley is run by a team of individuals who lead by example.  Starting with Executive Director, Tiana Jackson, who has been with Happy Valley since our opening just a little over a year ago, she has demonstrated true grit, determination and a loving spirit in helping our community get through the pandemic.  Ms. Jackson has worn many hats during the last year as she has stepped in where there was a need in a role as Nail Technician, Hairstylist and Dog Walker during these uncertain times. 

Tiana cites her former colleague Dee as the person who has most influenced her during her long career in senior care.  She explains that Dee’s passion, respect, model of servant-leadership has not only motivated her but shaped her. She adds that she has also met “many spectacular seniors who have taught me many life lessons through their stories.”

Tsering Yandon, who serves as our Wellness Director, explains that she cared for her Popo (“lovely grandfather”) who suffered from dementia for five years.  She states that as tough as that was, it brought her tremendous joy.  Tsering adds, “To have been able to serve him until the end of his life is something I cherish. And it contributes to my call to serve other seniors as well.”   

Director of Community Relations, Shannon Calles explains that seniors have taught her by example with their 50-, 60-, 75-year marriages, that she needs to work at being in the ‘No Matter What’ club with her husband. Shannon says, “The storm always passes and there I want us to be, together in the end. That’s the story I want in my book.” 

Our beautiful community offers 61 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 865 square feet). In our Reflections Neighborhood, we offer 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving home.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents.  Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.

Seniors May be More at Risk for Poor Nutrition

 The National Council on Aging (NCOA) cautions that elderly adults with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease among others, are more at risk for poor nutrition.  Bad eating habits, loss of appetite, lack of access to healthy foods due to an inability to get out and shop, or a shortage of money, only add to the problem. 

The NCOA also wants seniors to know that poor nutrition not only makes it harder to manage chronic diseases but may actually make you more vulnerable to coming down with them.  Another problem is it can weaken your immune system leaving you susceptible to the flu, colds and other viruses.  Moreover, poor nutrition can hamper one’s ability to recover from surgical procedures, heal wounds, and increases the risk for infection or falls.     

Also, as many elderly people have a decrease in appetite and consume much smaller portions each day, the food they do eat needs to be nutrient-dense.  This is one reason experts recommend the elderly avoid foods high in sugar, salt and trans fats as well as processed foods, which often are short on nutrients and much needed vitamins and minerals.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, an assisted living and memory care community, we know that good nutrition is important to the health of seniors.  This is why we offer our residents delicious daily meals that are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  Our range of nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  Our Executive Chef even incorporates “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens to enhance our food service. We encourage you to visit our website for contact information and pricing and availability.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: ncoa.org/healthy-aging/chronic-disease/nutrition-chronic-conditions/

Learn More About Diabetes

 The American Diabetes Association, along with other organizations helps to raise awareness of a serious disease that affects millions of Americans.  November is the month that has been chosen to sound the alarm for the millions of Americans who are at risk of getting diabetes.  Medical professionals recognize it is important for people to be educated about the disease and to be aware of the risks.  In addition, World Diabetes Day, which was first created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Foundation and the World Health Organization, is observed each year on November 14.

Experts say that knowing the symptoms of type 1 diabetes can be life-saving and lead to getting the care you need.  For individuals with risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes, having an awareness of the disease, may help to prevent or delay the progression. 

While sometimes known as juvenile diabetes, type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition without a cure that occurs when a person’s pancreas produces little or no insulin.  The disease usually appears during childhood or in adolescence but sometimes adults get it.  Treatment for the disease includes insulin as well as diet and lifestyle changes. 

Type 2 diabetes used to mainly affect adults but in the last several years more children are afflicted with the disease due to the rise in childhood obesity according to the Mayo Clinic.  They explain that type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes sugar (glucose) — an important source of fuel for the body.  Moreover, while there is also no cure for the disease, the Mayo Clinic recommends people alter their lifestyle by losing weight, exercising and eating well in order to better manage the disease. 

Symptoms for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have many similarities including the need to urinate frequently along with feeling very thirsty and drinking a lot, very hungry, and fatigued.  The person may additionally complain of blurry vision or have slow-healing sores.  Doctors say if you or a loved one has experienced any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 contact us for more information about one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills, AZ offers.

Dealing with a Parent’s Memory Problems

 

If your mom or dad is having serious memory problems, we have some suggestions to help you navigate through this trying time.  Medical experts recommend to do some research on Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, in order to educate yourself on how the disease is diagnosed, stages of the disease, and some of what your family can expect if it is.  You may want to visit websites such as the Alzheimer’s Association as well as online support groups for family members dealing with the disease for suggestions on how to best prepare and support your parent.  

Also, remember it may not be dementia as there are medical conditions, reactions to medications, and nutritional and hormonal issues that can cause dementia-like symptoms.  This is why you need to sit down and have a talk with you parent about the problems they are having and the need to make an appointment with their healthcare provider for a full medical exam.   

Experts say when you are ready to have the “conversation,” be honest and try to keep your voice calm.  Pick a time and place where you will not be interrupted and be sure to include in your homework different care options in case they ask.  Also, be ready to talk less and listen more as they may have also been worried about some of the changes they have been experiencing.  However, keep in mind it is common for a person to be confused, in denial, and/or withdraw.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley, we know something about the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provides a safe, loving home for seniors suffering from dementia.  If you are looking for trusted senior living in Happy Valley, OR, please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms

A Positive Outlook May Help You to Live Longer

 

According the World Health Organization, “ageism is most rampant in high-income countries, like the United States.  Americans, as a whole, place great value on youth, beauty, vitality and the ability to earn a large income.  Aging is, sadly, often seen as a debilitating process that robs people of these high-prized attributes.”  

However findings from a Yale School of Public Health study suggests that positive thinking and not stressing out as much about aging may help actually help keep our brains’ young.  In fact study participants who held more negative views on growing older were more likely to have changes in the brain typically associated with Alzheimer’s disease.  

Another study from the Boston University's School of Medicine that was recently published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that men and women with the highest levels of optimism had an 11% to 15% longer life span on average than those who practiced little positive thinking. Those with the highest scores of positive thinking were found to have the best chance of living to age 85 or beyond.  The lead author, Lewina Lee, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the school, said "This was the first study to look at the impact of optimism on exceptional longevity, which is defined as living to age 85 or more."

Researchers hypothesize that individuals with a more positive way of thinking tend to not only have goals but the confidence to achieve them.  Moreover “the results held true, the study found, even when socioeconomic status, health conditions, depression, smoking, social engagement, poor diet and alcohol use were considered.”   

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho senior living community, we approach life with a loving spirit that permeates throughout our home.  Even during a pandemic, our MorningStar family continues to relish our commitment to one another as well as enjoy the fun we have.  This year’s Oktoberfest was no exception as it included a door-to-door beer trolley, nine holes of golf, and a slice of German chocolate cake to finish the day off.  Please contact us to learn more about the most trusted senior housing Rio Rancho offers.    

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Visit our website for more information regarding unsurpassed senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.  

Common Questions to Ask when Looking for Memory Care

 

 

 

Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about a memory care community is whether or not they are up to the task of caring for your loved one. Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road? A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need.

Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one. Do they have a tendency to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors? Do they require help with eating and drinking? Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker? Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes?

Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one, now ask your questions including how experienced is the staff; and do they have any special training. If so, is it on-going? Will your loved one have an individualized care plan? Also what is the staff-ratio during the day and at night?

Inquire about safety protocols starting with secured doors, courtyards, and grounds as well as an emergency call system. Are hallways color-coded as this makes it easier for residents to navigate about more independently? Is there a nurse on duty, and how extensive are medical services? Also ask about the type of memory care activities and treatments available. After you have learned what you can, experts say the final decision will most likely come down to your peace of mind.

As one of the top-rated Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise, MorningStar at Englefield Green’s entire facility is geared toward caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Beginning with compassionate caregivers to activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. New residents are assessed by our Wellness Director in order to create comprehensive individualized plans. We welcome all of your questions and look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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. Are you looking for the best memory care in Boise? Please visit our website to learn about availability.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/memory-care-facility-checklist

Bonding Virtually for the Upcoming Holidays

 

While we know the holidays are fast approaching, we also understand we are in the middle of a pandemic.  This has left many of us asking how we make the holidays feel special while practicing safe social distancing with family members not part of our quarantine group.    

Currently health experts stress large family gatherings are not advisable.  This is because COVID-19 cases are often traced back to younger people spreading it to older relatives who are more at risk for serious complications.  However, despite the sadness we feel by not having our usual huge Thanksgiving gathering or Christmas parties, there are still ways we can bond with family and friends and have fun doing it.  

To successfully do a group Zoom or FaceTime call with several branches of the family, assign one person to set the call up, coordinating time, etc. with all parties.  For Thanksgiving, you could organize a call during dinner and encourage everyone to share a special family story or give a reason why they are grateful.   If you are a family of singers, organize a virtual group sing.  If your family loves to cook, prepare a virtual meal together.  

To make sure the kids feel part of the celebrations, have them dress-up or use puppets to perform the first Thanksgiving or Christmas story virtually.  This also has the advantage of keeping them busy several days before the holiday preparing.  Another idea is to watch the grandkids making holiday cookies or to send them a care package with a craft that you can make with them together.  In other words, use your imagination and remember someday soon we will again be celebrating together.  

The CDC suggests before you plan any in-person events to check with the positivity rate in your community.  In addition, remember to follow your state’s health and safety laws, rules, and regulations regarding group gatherings.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley we offer area seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We have 61 private assisted living suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 27 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.   Please see our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Making Family Memories More Relevant for the Younger Generation

 

Let’s face it; while our grandchildren may love to hear funny stories of when we were kids, most are not interested in looking at piles of pictures of people they have never met, or going through old scrapbooks or diaries of people long past.  However historians and biographers alike say we should try and keep our family’s history from getting lost as it often contains important life lesson about getting through good times as well as bad.  

As one of the researchers behind the study “The Power of Family History in Adolescent Identity and Well-Being,” Robyn Fivush, Ph.D., explains, “our families are among the most important social groups we belong to and identify with, stories about our family tell us who we are in the world, and who we should be."  One way to make our ancestors seem more relevant to our grandchildren is to point out common interests and goals they had.  

You might want to start by having old 8 mm and 16 mm movie films and videotapes of the family converted to new formats to make them easier to share.  There are many companies that will convert them well as do some editing to make them more enjoyable.  In addition take advantage of apps that allow you to organize pictures and arrange them into timelines that can be viewed over your smart device, or print a book of the most memorable photos of great-grandparents and others.  And remember even if the younger generation doesn’t seem interested in their family history today, they may change their mind as they grow older.   

As the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides a safe, loving home for seniors who require a little assistance with daily living activities.  In addition to the area’s best assisted living, we also provide compassionate memory care.  Please contact us to learn more about our philosophy of care, our broad range of services, and pricing and availability.     

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Pease visit our website for more about the most compassionate senior housing Rio Rancho offers. 

Source:  

aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2020/sharing-memories-younger-generation.html

goodhousekeeping.com/life/a29610101/preserve-family-history-storytelling/

Reduce the Risk of Stroke with Lifestyle Changes

 

The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that every 40 seconds a person has a stroke and every four minutes someone dies from one.  While that is alarming, the AHA says that almost 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.  

Did you know that one of the leading causes of strokes is high blood pressure, also called hypertension, and is the most prevalent health condition facing Americans? Statistics show one in four US adults have hypertension, and as people age, their blood pressure goes up.  Experts now believe as many as 80% of people 65 years and older have hypertension and should take steps to reduce it.  If you fall into that age group or at risk for HBP, start by regularly monitoring your blood pressure.  If high, work with your doctor to find ways to lower it including getting more exercise and eating a healthy diet.  

Another way to help prevent strokes is to quit smoking.  Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream and forces the heart to work harder, which in turn, increases the likelihood of blood clots.  Also, if you are diabetic, you need to manage the disease.  The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than someone without the disease. 

Exercise is another way to lower your risk.  Doctors say 30 minutes of moderate exercise fives a week, like a brisk walk, yoga or dancing are beneficial.  Moreover, if you are overweight, try to lose weight as obesity put you at risk for any number of health issues including stroke.  And don’t forget to get your cholesterol checked.  The AHA recommends everyone 20 years of age and over should have it done at least every 5 years.   Check with your healthcare provider regarding other risks for stroke.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we have 61 stylish suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. We define health and well-being holistically, and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit, which we believe makes MorningStar a destination for successful aging.   If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities in the area, we encourage you to visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Happy Valley.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Tips to Help You Manage Stress Better

 

While we all have experienced varying levels of stress and anxiety throughout our lives, experts have some advice on how we can better navigate through those times.  They also are quick to remind us that some stress in our lives can be a good thing as it motivates us to do things like meet deadlines and accomplish things.  

However stress becomes a problem when there is too much of it or low levels of stress that continue for long periods without a break says Dr. Michael Brodsky, medical director for behavioral health for L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest publicly-operated health plan in the U.S.  He explains that, “Low levels of stress release the same types of stress hormones that are produced by the fight-or-flight response,” and that “chronic exposure to such reactions are related to a number of health problems.”  These include conditions such as obesity, heart disease, anxiety and depression, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, diabetes, hypertension, headaches and others.  

Dr. Brodsky and other experts offers a number of healthy habits to help us manage stress more effectively starting with creating a routine around your personal habits including sleep.  Adults should strive for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night and stick to a scheduled bedtime. 

Another way to decrease your level of stress is to reduce your daily consumption of digital media.  Scientists have found that the blue light emitting from our personal devices can disrupt our ability to release enough melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate our sleep/wake cycles and keep us from getting a good night’s sleep.    

Experts say it can help to create a plan to deal with the things you want to accomplish each day starting with writing down daily goals and priorities so they feel more manageable.   Exercise, yoga or breathing exercises and mindful mediation can also be helpful.  Doctors recommend seeking support from family and friends, or if you need, medical experts.  

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Please contact us to learn more about unparalleled senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.  

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/tips-for-relieving-daily-stress-and-calming-down

MorningStar’s Memory Care in Fountain Hills, AZ

 

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Fountain Hills is unique from many other senior communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Starting with our physical design, which enhances residents’ freedom to explore our expansive surroundings safely and easily, we look for creative ways to connect with and nurture each individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.  

To aid us in this endeavor, we are staffed by a dedicated team that feels it is their calling, their privilege, to serve our tender residents and to provide a level of care that affirms their dignity and value.  Each team member is trained in Radiance, our Service Excellence program, which is an attitude of the heart and is the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose.   

Our team also goes out of their way to get to know our residents, to really listen to their stories, and in many cases, treat them like they would their own moms and dads.  We encourage you to take a look at our touching Twice the Story video series that showcases these special relationships that develop between residents and our team members.  At MorningStar, we believe these friendships testify to the fact that we need to support one another, and through these special connections, we come away changed for the better. 

While major disruptions like COVID-19 cause many hardships and sorrows, often they give rise to innovation. While the MorningStar senior living communities have always been purpose-built to protect our residents and team members, we have stepped up our rigorous protocols with Electrostatic Disinfecting Technology.  This emergent weapon in our fight to protect is harmless but it is deadly against infectious disease.   

In addition to memory care, MorningStar of Fountain Hills has 63 private suites for assisted living that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Please visit our website for more information about our loving community as well as to inquire about availability and pricing.   

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Talking to Your Parent About Assisted Living

 

Many adult children of elderly parents complain that their parents do not listen to their advice. While that may be true, and if you feel like you are one of those, it may have something to do with your methods and delivery.

To start with no matter how old our parents are, many of them still think of us as kids. After all, to them it wasn’t that long ago they were telling us what to do. That being said, there are a few tips from the experts to help us talk to our parents more effectively regarding sensitive subjects.

While generally it is best to not give unsolicited advice to a parent, there are times when it may be necessary. This includes a fear that they are putting themselves in harm’s way by not getting the care they need to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

To start the “conversation” the first thing you want to do is to pick your time and place. Don’t try to broach big problems at a family gathering or when you know your parent is tired or stressed. Once you do calmly tell them your concerns, give them the time to respond, and make sure you really listen. Ask thoughtful questions and see if they have a better solution.

Refrain from sounding condescending or argumentative, and remember you want to be supportive not controlling. In fact, you may find your parent had already come to the same conclusion you had regarding their care but are struggling with the idea of giving up some of their independence.

At MorningStar, we understand some of the angst that goes into making these types of lifestyle changes, which is why our website provides useful resources to help families through the process. We also encourage you to contact us to request a copy of “Senior Life: How to have the Best Conversation Ever with Your Elder Parent,” which offers an explanation of the relational and psychological constructs of aging and legacy.

If you are looking for an assisted living facility in Beaverton, OR we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Beaverton … far from a “facility,” MorningStar is a true home.  Our community is designed to give residents the opportunity to maintain their independence while providing access to the assistance they need. In addition, they get the benefit of built-in companionship as well as a range of meaningful wellness programs and activities.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides 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. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.