MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care : July 2020

Friday, July 31, 2020

How MorningStar of Happy Valley Cares for Seniors

MorningStar of Happy Valley, a senior living community in the Portland, Oregon metro area, is honored to serve seniors and to help make their lives a little easier. The way we deliver our outstanding service is through our Radiance program, which is taught to all new team members and reiterated every day at our daily Huddle.

Much more than just a customer service program, Radiance embodies the guiding principles for how we dispense our services – with depth of purpose and warmth. The program emanates from an authentic, sincere place and celebrates an attitude of selflessness that resembles a beam of light. We use the program to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

In 2003, MorningStar was founded on the premise that the company will operate with “servants’ hearts” and the Radiance program gives us the framework that enables us to take our service professionalism to the next level. We recognize that the heart of each MorningStar community depends on the quality of our caregivers, which is why we hire individuals who have a calling to serve seniors and understand the importance of their contribution.

Along with our wonderful care team, every aspect of MorningStar of Happy Valley is designed to best serve our residents’ needs. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our comfortable, loving community. When you are there, take a look at our photo gallery, amenities, and our well-designed floor plans. We offer 61 suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care for residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. We are closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American Senior Housing Association and Federal government.

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living community.

Help Reduce Inflammation with a Healthier Diet

Medical experts say that while inflammation helps our bodies to fight illness and can be a necessary part of the healing process, there are some people whose immune systems do not work as they should, and they suffer from chronic inflammation. This condition manifests itself in various diseases including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, asthma and metabolic syndrome (“a collection of conditions that tend to occur together, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease”).

However, the good news is researchers have found evidence that shows our diet may help us manage many of the symptoms of these diseases. They report that, “An anti-inflammatory diet favors fruits and vegetables, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and spices.” Foods to avoid or to limit consumption of include processed foods, red meats, and alcohol.

Doctors recommend approaching an anti-inflammatory diet as less of a specific regimen but more as a new, healthier style of eating. Two examples of diets that incorporate anti-inflammatory foods are the Mediterranean and DASH diets which favor foods rich in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids over those that increase the production of free radicals, which are believed to lead to cell damage.

Research shows that sugary or processed foods can trigger or worsen inflammation, and that some foods such as those fried in very hot cooking oil can trigger the formation of free radicals. Other factors that can increase the body’s free radicals include stress and smoking.

The Arthritis Foundation also notes that research has identified foods that can help control inflammation. These include tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collards, nuts like almonds and walnuts, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, and fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges. Please keep in mind that anyone with a chronic health condition involving inflammation should consult their healthcare provider about the best dietary options for them.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho, NM has to offer.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320233#takeaway

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Organizing Medications for an Elderly Parent

Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking one or more prescription medications on a daily basis. In fact the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.” Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interaction, an area of special concern for the elderly.

Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year after visits to the emergency room because of adverse, or harmful, drug events. Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “is it taken with food,” and the adverse side effects.

Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous taken together. Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork.

Store medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense for your parent’s needs. If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system. However, if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored.

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, a senior living community southeast of Portland, OR, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern. This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents take medications properly, and as we even order medications, there is no danger of them running out. Please visit our website for a virtual tour of our beautiful community and use our email link to inquire about availability and pricing.

Learn More About MorningStar of Rio Rancho

MorningStar of Rio Rancho, located north of Albuquerque, offers residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit. Together MorningStar’s Enrichment team and our Wellness Care team play a large role in why our beautiful community is the best choice for senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

To start with, all assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more). Also they have access to a licensed nurse onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock; and every shift has an employee who is CPR certified. We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically do Care Plan reviews and update residents’ care plan as needed.

Our centralized, mobile Electronic Health Record (EHR) system ensures accurate records of assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). The system maintains accurate, legible and complete demographic and medical information on residents as well as enhances privacy and security of the data.

Other clinical care services provided by MorningStar include mechanical lift assistance, diabetic management, oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care and more. We provide scheduled physician visits, a choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.

This wide scope of care services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health and helps to extend the stay of our residents even when health conditions change. We also pride ourselves on finding creative solutions that can result in higher quality of care at a lower cost for families. For a full list of care services, we encourage you to visit our website and take a look at our Care Services page.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho proudly provides the very best in 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho NM.

Monday, July 27, 2020

Brighten Your Elderly Loved One's Day

If you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community and they are isolating themselves from the coronavirus, you probably would love to do something to brighten their day but just not sure how. One idea is to send them a “thinking of you” basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options. Are they a chocolate lover or prefer salty snacks? Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses. For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest. A collection of classic movies is also something many seniors would enjoy.

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers. If they have low vision, include large-print playing cards and books. If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket. While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight. For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.

MorningStar of Happy Valley is proud to offer residents a lifestyle of comfort and wellness along with resort-style amenities. Our beautiful senior living community has 61 stylish assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living. In our Reflections Neighborhood, 27 secure suites are devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.

Is it Time to Consider Care Options for Your Loved One with Dementia?

Caring for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can be a very stressful job. If you think it is time to consider other care options, rather than feeling disappointed in yourself, remember the job of a caregiver is tough and it may be in yours as well as your spouse, mom, or dad’s best interest to move them into memory care.

If caring for a loved one requires more effort on your part than you are able to give physically or mentally, please reach out and get the help you need as your own health and wellbeing may be adversely impacted. Also, experts stress that while there is no downside to placing someone in memory care in the earlier stages of the disease there could be drawbacks to waiting too long. Remember the more advanced stages bring with it a significant decline in everyday functioning.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Rio Rancho offers 26 secure suites for the care of residents with memory impairment from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a team of individuals who through purposeful training and experience are dementia care specialists. Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness. Additionally, every aspect of our home has been designed to accommodate those needs.

Keep in mind as the disease progresses; it becomes very difficult for a family to keep up with the increasing needs as the person requires more and more assistance with daily care activities such as bathing, toileting, and eating. Other signs of advanced dementia include reduced mobility, wandering, and falling, which may require home modifications. Professional memory care homes such as ours are equipped to deal with these issues and have 24/7 caregivers available. So rather than feel like you let your loved down by not caring for them yourself, placing them in a multi-faceted community designed to attend to their changing needs may be the most loving thing you can do.

Please visit MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s website for more information about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers. While you are there, be sure to read the COVID-19 update from MorningStar’s CEO detailing our defense in the fight against the coronavirus to keep our communities safe.

Saturday, July 25, 2020

Enjoy Healthy Meals at MorningStar of Happy Valley

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult. This is why the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is important, and even today, many seniors have an “inadequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, folic acid, calcium, and niacin.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier. They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road. Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy. It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados.

Along with all of the other amenities and care services we provide, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients. We get much of our produce from home-grown or local high-quality producers.

Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch, and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions. We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage. MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.

During the coronavirus outbreak, MorningStar of Happy Valley’s highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents and team members, and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are still accepting new assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols. Please see our website for more information.

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 the Happy Valley – Clackamas area.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/seniors-nutritional-needs/

Some Good News in the Fight Against Alzheimer's Disease

Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association, we can stay updated on new advancements and treatments for Alzheimer’s by using their informative website. For example, the 2019 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) revealed several pieces of good news in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

One of the most significant news stories was that we will likely have the capacity to test for Alzheimer’s disease easily and more affordable in the very near future. The Alzheimer’s Association says that researchers are currently working on developing a simple blood test to detect the signs of the disease early, accurately, and much more affordable than other methods used. This means individuals can benefit from early interventions such as medications and cognitive activities and change modifiable risk factors like losing weight, getting enough sleep, and quitting smoking. The person also has time to plan for the future.

Researchers also report, “500 new drug targets have been identified, which address everything from reducing inflammation in the brain to protecting nerve cell health.” Another thing that emerged from the AAIC is evidence that a healthier lifestyle may decrease our risk for dementia. This includes eating a low-fat, high vegetable diet, getting regular exercise, and engaging in cognitive stimulation. In addition, the report said intensive high blood pressure treatment can significantly reduce the occurrence of mild cognitive impairment, which can lead to dementia. One other significant finding included discovering specific sex-based differences in women that put them at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s than men.

Much of the research presented at the AAIC is done with monies from federal sources and fundraising efforts directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Their Part the Cloud initiative awards researchers grants to undertake the important work of finding a cure for this devastating disease.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our mission is to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers, which includes compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our holistic care begins with the utmost respect and compassion for our special residents that is borne out of a deep understanding of the disease. Regardless of the extent of the memory loss, we recognize that a person’s essence remains, and we feel it is our calling, as well as our privilege to find ways to connect with and nurture that essence. Please visit our website for more information.

Source: alz.org/blog/alz/december-2019/alzheimer-s-and-dementia-research-five-things-we

Thursday, July 23, 2020

MorningStar's Aggressive Defense Against COVID-19

Right from the start of the coronavirus outbreak, MorningStar Senior Living sprang into unprecedented action to protect both residents and team members. To ensure we reacted quickly to any and all early warning signs, we relied on the guidance of the CDC, the American Housing Association, and the Federal government over the last several months staying tuned to changing information and recommendations. Our strong line of defense was built on evolving evidence-based research and proportional to the threat.

Now as the nation is slowly coming out of quarantine and states and communities are opening back up, MorningStar of Happy Valley is judiciously following Oregon’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing. We are sending out information to our residents and family members, and ask that you direct any questions specifically regarding the Happy Valley community to our Executive Director, Tiana Jackson.

Also, we would be remiss if we did not take the time to thank all of our residents and their families for their overwhelming love and support during this time. In addition, we want to express gratitude to our dedicated team members who have helped us every step of the way to get through this crisis with grace and courage. In other words, it was a team effort!

Newly opened last November, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 assisted living suites and 27 secure suites for memory care. Residents have 24/7 care and a wide assortment of resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. Currently we are accepting new residents and are confident in our protocols for keeping our MorningStar family safe. Please visit our website for more information.

Looking for Exceptional Senior Living in Rio Rancho, NM?

If you have started the search for senior living in Rio Rancho NM, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community. While we only opened to residents late last year, we are proud to say we have already earned a reputation as a beautiful and loving home.

We always suggest that interested families contact us by phone or email, but as a way to get you started; our website contains lots of information about our community as well as more general information. Among our Family Resources, which include a Decision Guide and information on Affordability and Veterans, we also provide a comprehensive FAQs section.

Here you will read about our unique brand of “senior loving homes” as well as learn a little something about our mission. We explain how it is our privilege - our calling, to love all those beneath our roof, which starts by hiring team members with servants’ hearts who are drawn to the idea of working with seniors. In addition, our service is guided by Radiance, and designed to foster a culture where kindness and authenticity are paramount.

Within our FAQs, you will also find answers explaining what assisted living is, the type of services we offer, and how your level of care is determined (it is based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director). This information allows us to set up a customized care plan that is reviewed periodically to keep up with any changing health needs.

Finally, we want you to know we have made many changes in our community to keep both residents and team members safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the nation slowly reopens, we are judiciously following New Mexico’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing. We continue to stay abreast of developments and evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors.

Monday, July 20, 2020

A Compassionate, Holistic Approach to Memory Care

MorningStar at Englefield Green is unique from many other Alzheimer’s care homes as we were built from the ground up to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Starting with our community’s 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.

MorningStar at Englefield Green’s offers 50 secure suites in a variety of floor plans for permanent and short term stays. Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted memory care as well as to inquire about availability and pricing.

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 all those who dwell beneath our roofs, 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! Contact us to learn more.

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; your loved one deserves the finest memory care!

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Falls Do Not Have to Be an Inevitable Result of Aging

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) states that, “falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten seniors’ safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs.” They report one in four adults over the age of 65 fall each year and account for more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency rooms annually, and result in over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.

However, they say falls do not have to be an inevitable result of aging. Rather with some practical lifestyle adjustments as well as public campaigns on how to reduce the problem from the NCOA and other organizations, the number of yearly falls can be reduced. The NCOA’s evidence-based Falls Free® National Action Plan was updated in 2015, and includes “goals, strategies and action steps to increase physical mobility, reduce the impact of medications as a falls risk factor, and improve home and environmental safety.”

The National Institute on Aging explains some of the steps seniors can take to help protect themselves from a fall. The first thing is to stay physically active. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking or climbing stairs improves muscle strength and keeps joints, tendons, and ligaments more flexible. Another fall-prevention tip is to have your eyes and hearing tested. If you need glasses, wear them, and if you have a hearing aid, wear it.

In addition, ask your healthcare provider if your medications have side effects that can make you dizzy or sleepy. It is also important to get enough sleep and to limit the amount of alcohol you drink as even a small amount can affect your balance.

Stand up slowly, and have your blood pressure checked if you feel dizzy. If you feel wobbly when walking, use an assistive device such as a cane or walker. A physical or occupational therapist can help you choose the right device and teach you how to safely use it.

During wet or icy conditions, use extra caution when walking, and always wear non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes. Lace-up shoes give you the ability to adjust the amount of support you need, but do not buy shoes with soles that are too thin or too thick. Around the house, wear shoes or slippers with non-slip bottoms.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our goal is to be one of the area’s best senior living communities, and the safety and comfort of our residents is our highest priority. Please visit our website for more information, availability and pricing.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Fountain Hills, “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 contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Sources: ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/
nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

Alzheimer's Can Cause Periods of Agitation & Anxiety

People with Alzheimer’s may express feelings of agitation and anxiety, which can be caused by the frustration that comes with the inability to get others to understand what they need. However experts say there are some tips to help circumvent or prevent getting into situations that can become emotionally charged.

If you feel the person is starting to feel anxious, it could be the environment they are in. If this is the case, remove them to a quieter place and encourage them to rest or use soothing rituals that have worked in the past. Often a noisy room including having a TV on can act as just such a trigger. If that is not the problem, check to make sure the person is physically okay and that they are not hungry, thirsty or need to use the bathroom. Also make sure they are not too hot or cold. If they are still able to communicate, get down to their eye level and ask them in simple words to tell you what they need. Another approach is to distract them by taking a walk or putting on music and encouraging them to dance.

While trying to calm the person down, make sure you do not raise your voice. Remain speaking in a calm voice and give the person the time to try and express the problem. If you feel the person is experiencing lots of periods of anxiety and agitation, it is a good idea to discuss it with their health care provider. Also make sure you have a good support system to share your experiences with and perhaps learn something from other caregivers.

If you or a loved one is suffering from dementia, please contact one of the area’s most experienced Alzheimer’s care homes. MorningStar at Englefield Green takes a holistic approach to dementia care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website to learn more about what a specialized care plan can do for your loved one.

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. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted memory care.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/anxiety-agitation

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Robotic Pets May Provide Many of the Same Benefits as Live Animals

Have you been searching for something for your elderly mom or dad that would provide some comfort and help ease their feelings of loneliness and isolation? While you may think now is not the best time for them to assume the responsibilities of a new pet, you may want to take a look at one of the many “robotic pets” in the marketplace.

We know there has been a lot of research that supports the idea pet ownership is beneficial to seniors and a loving pet is a great companion. Now researchers have also discovered that robotic pets may provide the elderly with many of the same benefits live animals do. A 2017 study found that the interaction between older adults and animals, whether real or robotic, helped lower blood pressure, eased anxiety, reduced feeling of loneliness and improved the overall quality of life.

The advantage of a low-maintenance robot dog or cat is they are easy for seniors with little to no tech savvy to “care for.” The realistic pets do little tricks such as a robotic dog who wags its tail, raises its eyebrow when you pet it, has a heartbeat, and makes a barking noise. For people with dementia, robotic pets have helped ease agitation and anxiety and seem to have a calming influence.

In fact New York’s Department for the Aging (DFTA) was so impressed with the pets that they implemented a program to distribute mechanical dogs and cats to a number of seniors with the aim of easing loneliness. The DFTA’s Commissioner, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez explains, “For the older person, social isolation really has a devastating effect on their health.”

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Fountain Hills encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our exceptional community. Along with 63 assisted living suites, MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers 28 secure suites dedicated to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We are still accepting new residents during this difficult time of the coronavirus outbreak, confident in our protective protocols.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation 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. Contact us to learn more about our loving assisted living and memory care community.

Sunday, July 12, 2020

Memory Care at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we not only provide some of the best assisted living in the area, but also experienced memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.” By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.

All of our employees receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents. The eight hours of training includes the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they crossover the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.

Please visit our website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate memory care. At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we do not consider serving our memory care residents to be depressing but rather offer hope to families as we strive to find ways to elevate and celebrate each resident’s life. We look forward to meeting you.

Friday, July 10, 2020

Assisted Living Suites at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills was designed to create a true home for our residents and provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. From the moment you walk through the door, you are sure to be impressed by our beautiful architecture and inviting common areas including an atrium with a water feature, fireside patio and porches.

Along with our compassionate care services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities, residents have a choice of smart floor plans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs. Within our 63 assisted living suites, we offer floor plans that include studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations with some over 800 sq. ft. You will find all of our suites have lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items.

Each suite is equipped with a kitchenette, a handicap-accessible bathroom, a 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system. Your monthly fee includes cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services. We do trash removal and spot cleaning daily. Moreover, if you are wondering, we are pet friendly!

Please visit our website to view stunning photos and for more information about one of the finest senior living communities in the area. In addition to assisted living, we have 28 secure suites devoted to the care of those suffering with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Learn More About COVID-19

We are told COVID-19 is more dangerous for seniors but as with most things nothing is absolute and there have been inspiring stories about very elderly Americans beating the disease. One of those people is William “Bill” Lapshies, who at 104 years old contracted the disease in early March and on April 1st was declared virus-free.

Doctors are seeking answers to why some people are asymptomatic or experience a milder form of the disease, while others do not, and want to learn more about what makes some more vulnerable. One answer may be that as we age, our immune system functions decline, a process that the medical field refers to as immunosenescence.

Insoo Kang, M.D., associate professor of medicine and director of allergy, immunology and internal medicine at the Yale School of Medicine, states that, “Immune cells, especially CD8+ T cells [a type of white blood cell], change with aging. We see fewer naive CD8+ T cells, which are needed to recognize newly emerging microorganisms like the COVID-19 virus. It happens to everyone on some level, just not at the same rate."

Doctors hope by better understanding why our immune system declines with age, they may be able to find ways to slow the decline and raise people’s immune reserves for the next illness they may encounter. In addition, research suggests there are steps we can take to strengthen our own immune system and include exercising, eating well, managing our weight, controlling stress levels and getting vaccinations. Atul Butte, M.D., distinguished professor of epidemiology, biostatistics and pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, feels sure that “the COVID-19 pandemic will, in the end, teach us more about our health vulnerabilities — individually and as an aging population.”

Source:
aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/coronavirus-immunity-age-risk.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R2-POS4-REALPOSS-TODAY

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Keep Your Brain Healthy with Mentally Challenging Activities

Several studies indicate life-long learning is good for seniors’ brain health and starting a new hobby or learning a skill late in life can help to boost a person’s memory. In one study from the University of Texas at Dallas, researchers found that older adults “who took on a new mentally challenging hobby saw a lasting increase in their memory skills.” They theorize that when seniors mentally challenge themselves with new skills such as playing an instrument, learning to operate a computer, or being taught to quilt, networks within the brain are being strengthened.

Neurologists in another study from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland discovered that a lifelong pursuit of mentally challenging activities may actually help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Their findings suggest that older adults who frequently read, played mentally challenging games like chess, or engaged in other intellectually stimulating activities are less likely to have Alzheimer’s, which impacts millions of Americans.

Other research out of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School appear to support these findings. Their study relied on interviews as well as brain scans of participants, and findings indicate that seniors who have had a higher level of intellectual stimulation throughout the course of their lives, showed a marked delay in the onset of memory-related problems and other Alzheimer’s type symptoms.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless, and feel it is our privilege to provide seniors an environment where they can be productive and engaged. Our Life Enrichment Team presents creative ways to stay active and enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.

While we have had to temporarily suspend group activities due to the coronavirus, as the nation slowly reopens, MorningStar is carefully following suit with each state’s phasing and pacing where our communities are located. We are closely watching new developments and continue to evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors. Please visit our website to learn more about one of the top senior living communities in the Fountain Hills, AZ area.

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Wandering can be a Dangerous Problem for Someone with Alzheimer's

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander. The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s may not remember their name, their address or how to get home. Furthermore the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.

Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering. Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.

To start with it is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one. Find out if your area has a ”Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times. Also learn to recognize the warning signs of a potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and try to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out. In addition reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out. You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.

Alzheimer’s care homes such as MorningStar at Englefield Green are designed with a secure environment that encourages residents to safely explore their surroundings. Our residents can freely move about our home but we have special security features to prevent them from wandering out of our community. In addition our dedicated staff is trained to keep residents engaged and safe.

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. If you are looking for one of the area’s most trusted Alzheimer’s care homes, please give us a call.

Source:
https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering?gclid=CjwKCAjw57b3BRBlEiwA1ImytmBGP_hmFyQiC87yf4nZ93JrSIhk7rKy4nAvAxmvhccxsXOsRpO_WhoCzcgQAvD_BwE

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm