Senior Living Can Help Maintain Your Independence

If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar of Happy Valley provide residents with all of the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them safely age in place. Moreover as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it. 

Right from the ground up, our home is set apart from other senior living communities as we were designed by the award-winning senior interior specialist, Thoma-Holec Design. We offer gorgeously-appointed common areas including all-day, restaurant-style dining, a 24-hour bistro, fitness and wellness center, life enrichment room, spa, massage/therapy room, salon, theatre/chapel and more. Situated on a 2-acre campus, we also showcase expansive outdoor amenities such as courtyards featuring artwork and trellises, barbecue and fire pit and strolling paths. 

Too often seniors assume assisted living means an end to their independence but studies actually show the opposite is true. When older adults get the daily personal care they need, it helps to restore their confidence and frees them up to move forward with living life to the fullest. In addition to extensive support services, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of amenities, our contemporary suites are ready to move-in to and just require your furnishings and personal items. For your safety and wellbeing, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. 

The MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community offers 61 assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We invite you to visit our website for more information about the area’s most trusted assisted living and memory care and to learn more about what sets MorningStar apart from other senior living communities.   

Tis the Season to be Happy

 

If you haven’t found anything to feel joyful about this holiday season, you are probably not alone. The Mayo Clinic says the holidays can affect people by bringing up unhappy memories of loved ones no longer here or making you feel you are not doing enough. They offer some coping mechanisms on how to relieve your stress and depression; take stock of the situation; and perhaps even figure out how to enjoy the holidays. 

The first tip they offer is to acknowledge your feelings. For instance, it is normal to feel sorrow if you are dealing with a recent death of a loved one or unable to be with someone who means a lot to you. Give yourself the time to mourn and accept the fact that you cannot force yourself to feel happy right now. 

It is also more difficult to go through the holidays if you are feeling alone and isolated. Try to reach out to your church, community or other social organizations; or go online to find virtual gathering, religious services or set up zoom calls with those you cannot be with this year. Another way to feel better is to do something special for someone like cooking a meal and dropping it off or volunteering at a local soup kitchen. 

Experts say another problem that interferes with holiday joy is setting unrealistic expectations. The holidays are not going to solve all your problems and your family is still your family. Moreover, don't get upset over changes in family traditions as kids grow up and things change. Rather suggest new traditions that everyone can agree on. Other tips to smooth the holidays are to plan ahead, stick to your budget, make time for yourself, and set aside your differences and grievances. If depression and anxiety continue to plague you, seek professional help. 

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, our goal is to provide residents with a comfortable, inviting home where they can safely age in place. Our services, amenities and wellness programs are all geared toward accomplishing this. Residents enjoy the benefits of community living and get peace of mind knowing loving support is available whenever they need it. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s top assisted living and memory care.  

Source:  mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544

Are You Getting Enough Protein in Your Diet?

Information on what constitutes a healthy diet continues to evolve as researchers discover more and more about the human body and how it reacts to the food we consume and the way it affects the aging process. Not too long ago, medical professionals touted diets low in fat and high in carbohydrates. Now newer studies emphasize the role protein plays in our overall health and the importance of eating healthy proteins.   

Experts say the best proteins should contain vitamins and minerals. Cesar Sauza, clinical nutrition manager of health education and wellness at AltaMed Health Services in Los Angeles, explains his "top go-to protein foods sources are fatty fish like salmon, tuna and sardines.” A 3 oz. A serving of tuna steak contains 24 grams of protein and salmon 17 grams of protein. Fatty, cold water fish also contain omega-3s; fatty acids that help maintain eye and brain health as well as heart and circulatory health. Omega-3s DHA and EPA are linked to brain and cardiovascular health. 

Another item back on the menu is eggs. Cage-free eggs are a good source of protein (one egg has 6 grams), fairly inexpensive, easy to prepare and provide several essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamins B2, B5, B6 and B12, folate, phosphorus and selenium.

Bean and legumes are other easy ways to get your daily dose of protein and are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants. They can help you lose weight as they contain a carbohydrate known as “resistant starch," that like fiber, is hard to digest and makes us feel fuller longer.

Other healthy suggestions for protein include low-fat dairy products. Along with the probiotic benefit, Greek yogurt has almost twice the protein as regular yogurt along with calcium and is typically fortified with vitamin D. Nuts and seeds are also loaded with protein, vitamins and minerals. Dieticians say if you eat meat, concentrate on lean meat and avoid processed ones like bacon, ham, deli meats, and hot dogs. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with a 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.  Please visit our website to learn more about exceptional assisted living in Happy Valley.  

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/top-healthy-protein-rich-foods?slide=3&src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Dec%2005%2007%3A49%3A18%20EST%202021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_term=Your%20Health 

Even Good for You Foods Should be Eaten in Moderation

 

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach our goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not over consume.  

This is where portion control plays a part.  Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that whole foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However, to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and Rheumatoid arthritis.”

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we provide residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Contact us or visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “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.  Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

Looking for Gift Ideas for Your Elderly Mom or Dad?

While you want to show mom or dad your love through a thoughtful gift this holiday season, it can be tough to figure out one. If they live in a senior living community that provides for many of their needs or in an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up major space or already has it. 

This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy.

If they haven’t gotten an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice-operated. Alexa can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use.  

Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain, a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep, or a light-therapy lamp for the dark days of winter. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids. 

If you are looking for the finest senior housing Rio Rancho offers, consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho. Our all-inclusive senior living community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all of the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every private suite is smartly-designed to maximize space and include floor plans in studio, one bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations. All have wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, lighting, and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. In addition, one- and two-bedroom suites in assisted living have a stacking washing machine and dryer.  Please visit our website to learn more and be sure to ask us about our Move-in Specials.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

 

Help Maintain Memory Function and Overall Brain Health

 

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

What sets MorningStar apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM?  We strive to provide a true “home” for our residents and have a team committed to serving seniors who treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.  Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents. Please visit our website for more information. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Assisted Living Provides the Care Required to Enhance Quality of Life

 

A Place for Mom’s website, a free service that helps families in their senior care search, reports the various services offered at assisted living communities can make it a healthier, safer living option for many seniors. As services typically involve 24/7 care, nutritional meals and wellness programs, it means residents receive the kind of care required to enhance their quality of life.  

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Rio Rancho provide the social connections necessary to seniors’ wellbeing as well as intellectual stimulation. The individual and their family get peace of mind knowing help is available when it is needed. Likewise, recent research shows assisted living communities may help seniors avoid falls as most are equipped with safety features such as handicap-accessible bathrooms and wheelchair accessible doorways. MorningStar’s emergency call systems in each suite also means immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar of Rio Rancho offers seniors assistance with another all-too common problem of medication mismanagement. The JAMA Internal Medicine journal published a study showing “80% of older adults regularly take at least two prescription medications, and 36% regularly take at least five prescription drugs.” The Department of Health and Human Services reports up to 55 percent of older adults are “non-compliant” in their medications including skipping doses or failing to take medication as prescribed. Either one can result in hospitalizations or deaths. Our medication management service helps to avoid these problems and includes dispensing as well as ordering prescription drugs.

MorningStar’s comprehensive care starts with residents having an individualized plan created to address their specialized needs. It is frequently reviewed and updated as required. Our day-to-day care is intended to help residents maintain a healthier lifestyle with nutritional meals, exercise classes, and life enrichment programs designed for their needs. For exceptional senior housing, Rio Rancho, NM seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Sources:  

aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/

aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/medication-management

An Assessment of the ADLs can Help Seniors Get the Care they Need

Most seniors wish to maintain their independence as long as possible by living on their own; and this is why many who encounter problems in their day-to-day lives are reluctant to tell their families. The problem with this is as a senior starts to have more difficulty caring for themselves, their quality of life can be greatly diminished. 
Even if mom or dad seem to be doing well on their own, experts say a rapid decline in their health from an accident or illness can catch families by surprise and make living on their own dangerous. In addition many health conditions affect musculoskeletal, neurological, circulatory or sensory systems and impact a senior’s ability to perform the activities of daily living (ADLs). Experts say other factors indicating a need for more help include social isolation, medication side effects and the physical characteristics of the person’s home such as a second floor bedroom. If after implementing a series of home modifications is not adequate, more measures need to be taken to keep your loved one safe. 

Experts explain unmet ADLs can lead to serious health problems including “malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and falls. In fact, studies show ADL disabilities are associated with an increased risk for mortality; and taking care of daily needs can help prevent new and worsening health problems.” They also report if family members notice a decline in a loved one’s overall health, taking steps now can improve their safety and forestall further problems. One solution is to make a move to a senior living community, where a person can live as safely and as independently as possible. To ensure needs are met, homes use the ADLs as a measure of a person’s functional performance.

MorningStar of Happy Valley is a beautiful senior living community with 61 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans offering residents’ peace of mind knowing compassionate help is readily available whenever they need it. We also have 27 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Visit our website to learn about our home and our Move-in Specials.  

Source:

agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm#:~:text=are%20still%20met.-,Why%20Are%20ADLs%20Important%3F,a%20senior's%20quality%20of%20life.&text=Unmet%20needs%20for%20help%20with,(UTIs)%2C%20and%20falls.

Preparing for Your Next Doctor Visit Pays Off

Have you had the experience of walking to your car after a doctor’s visit and a question pops into your mind you wished you had asked the doctor? You are not alone. In fact the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), a division of the U.S. Dept. of Human Health & Services, reminds all of us about the benefit of preparing questions and accurate information ahead of time to provide to your physician. They say it not only improves your care, but builds trust between you and your healthcare provider, which can lead to better results.  

For help on questions to ask to facilitate a more fruitful visit to your doctor and efficiently use your precious time (studies show doctors spend between 13 to 24 minutes with each patient), the AHRQ offers a series of questionnaires related to your visit. Remember typically you have a reason for the visit such as: a well visit, looking for answers for a specific medical problem, returning to discuss treatment, or getting test results. Prepare for your appointment by bringing your prescription medications as well as over-the-counter drugs you use including vitamins and dietary or herbal supplements. 

When discussing a possible medical procedure, AHRQ says questions should include: why do I need this procedure; how do I prepare; when will I get the results; and how will I feel afterward? If surgery is recommended, ask if there are alternative treatments available that are just as effective; possible complications; and recovery period. AHRQ says if you are given a new medication, ask how the new drug will interact with other drugs you are taking, how long you will be on it, and common side effects. Before you leave your appointment, make sure you understand your instructions.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Our community is honored to create a true “home” for residents with 61 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Happy Valley and ask about our Move-in Specials.    

Source:

ahrq.gov/questions/be-engaged/index.html

Why Eating Breakfast is Good for Us

 

Growing up most of our mothers told us it wasn’t healthy to skip breakfast. While we listened, many of us still went off to school without eating anything. Based on current research, it turns out our mother’s advice was right again, and eating breakfast is good for us for several reasons.

Registered Dietician Erin Palinski-Wade explains when we eat a healthy breakfast upon rising in the morning; it helps regulate our appetite for the rest of the day. If we break our nightly fast with a good meal, we are less likely to indulge in sugary or fat-laden food later on in the morning. A healthy breakfast also helps to prevent blood sugar highs and lows and Palinski-Wade says this is important for diabetics as well as the rest of us. 

While many breakfast foods such as cereal, baked goods, and granola bars are high in sugar and refined grains, experts say we should refuel our body each morning with protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. Protein makes us feel fuller and keeps us from snacking later on unhealthy foods. Eggs, yogurt, sausage, and peanut butter spread on whole wheat toast are good sources of protein. Fiber helps our digestive system work well and is found in oatmeal and whole grain cereals. Many meals can be partly prepared the night before to make your morning routine easier.   

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we provide a lifestyle that focuses on wellness, comfort and community. Assisted living residents receive a whole range of services and amenities including beautifully prepared, nutritional daily meals served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room. Other services include 24/7 care managers, certified medication care managers, scheduled health & wellness evaluations, CPR-trained team members on every shift, access to a licensed nurse and more. We also provide memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more about the most trusted assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.  

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/does-eating-breakfast-help-you-lose-weight?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Nov%2007%2007:49:00%20EST%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

Some are Calling it a “Breakthrough” in Alzheimer’s Research

With estimates of up to 5.8 million people in the U.S. living with Alzheimer’s, any news about a possible breakthrough regarding the cause of the disease is exciting. The Medical News Today reports on an interesting study out of Australia, which suggests it has identified a likely cause of Alzheimer’s disease, that some are calling a “breakthrough.” 

Dr. John Mamo, Ph.D., the lead author of the study, and distinguished professor and director of the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute at Curtin University in Perth, Australia, explains the research’s conclusion. He starts by citing the fact that up to now, one of the problems in the fight against Alzheimer’s, is we have not known the cause of the disease. Dr. Mamo says, “This study shows that exaggerated abundance in blood of potentially toxic fat-protein complexes can damage microscopic brain blood vessels called capillaries and, thereafter, leak into the brain, causing inflammation and brain cell death.”

The research was done with test mice whose livers were genetically modified to produce human amyloid-beta, which some believe may be a cause of Alzheimer’s. The control group had no genetic modifications. During the blind study, scientists “found when the amyloid-beta proteins made in the liver of the test mice combined with fats and traveled to the brain, they interfered with the proper functioning of the brain’s microscopic blood vessels, or capillaries.” 

Dr. Mamo says they found the inflammation was also associated with marked degeneration in the brain cells of the mice in the test group when examined under a microscope. Also when putting the mice through a series of cognitive function tests, researchers found the test mice performed approximately half as well as the control group at retention of learning.

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley, our beautiful assisted living and memory care community offers a whole host of resort-style amenities and care services as well as wellness programs and activities daily geared toward our residents. Located in the southeast suburb of Portland, OR, we are a true “home,” with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, and ask about our Move-in Specials.  

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/likely-cause-of-alzheimers-identified-in-new-study?utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=dedicated&utm_content=2021-10-03&apid=32549197&rvid=e3b0c44298fc1c149afbf4c8996fb92427ae41e4649b934ca495991b7852b855

Memory Care at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch.  However most importantly, we embrace hope.  

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.  

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Concerned About an Elderly Parent Living on Their Own?

Has your elderly parent spent a lot more time alone during COVID-19 and now appears to be having difficulty taking care of themselves or managing their home as they were once able to? For many families, the last year and a half has underscored the fact that their elderly loved one is not getting on as well as they did before the pandemic; and may need additional help with the activities of daily living.   

We know the decision to move a family member into a senior living community is a big one. Seniors can be resistant to moving, and many hate the idea of leaving their home and everything familiar to them. However it is important thing to consider whether your parent’s current living situation is meeting their overall physical and safety needs; and if it doesn’t, it is time to start the conversation about the need for change.  

One important thing to look for is if your loved one has had one or more falls over the last several months. The CDC reports every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S.—making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group. Every 11 seconds a senior is treated at an emergency room for injuries suffered in a fall. In addition does their home have stairs they must use, or do they have a problem get up from a chair or out of bed. Also take a good look at mom or dad’s appearance. Are they looking disheveled or is the house looking neglected.    

If mom or dad does need help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) and would benefit from more socialization, MorningStar of Happy Valley is a trusted senior living community in Happy Valley. Our home offers 61 private suites available in a range of configurations and floorplans; and residents receive 24-hour Care Managers, access to full-time licensed nurses, medication management, care plan reviews and other services. Amenities include a 24-hour bistro with full bar; life enrichment room; spa; fitness and wellness center; massage/therapy room; salon; game room; theatre/chapel; and more. Our Reflections Neighborhood offer seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia individualized memory care. Visit our website to learn more.

Help Control Blood Pressure with Lifestyle Changes

The Mayo Clinic has several tips to help people with high blood pressure (HBP) bring their numbers down. They say making simply lifestyle changes could help you avoid, delay or reduce the need for medication. 

The first thing they recommend is maintaining a healthy weight. If you are overweight, check with your healthcare provider regarding diet suggestions. Experts explain being overweight can raise your blood pressure as well as interfere with your breathing during the night (sleep apnea). Just having too much weight around your waistline can also increase your blood pressure. While measurements vary among body types and ethnicities, the Mayo Clinic says, “Men are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 40 inches (102 centimeters). Women are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 35 inches (89 centimeters).”  Check with your doctor regarding what would be best for you. 

Exercise is another way to help reduce your blood pressure numbers. Experts say 150 minutes a week or 30 minutes daily can help bring your numbers done by about 5 to 8 mm Hg if you have high blood pressure. Best exercises include walking, jogging, dancing, cycling or swimming. 

Diet is also important and the Mayo Clinic says the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is a good one for HBP. Other suggestions include reducing your daily sodium intake as well as alcohol consumption, cut back on caffeine and reduce stress.   

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our goal is to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers, which includes chef-inspired meals that are both delicious and healthy. Our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage. Ingredients include using super foods such as berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and leafy greens. 

Our community offers 51 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we have 26 secure suites providing individualized, specialized care. Please call or visit our website to learn more.  

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

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source:

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-2004697