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

Desserts that are Healthy as well as Satisfy a Sweet Tooth

The U.S. News and World Report recently published an article on tasty treats designed to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a healthier alternative to more sugar laden desserts. One suggestion from board-certified oncology dietitian, Kailey Proctor, of the Leonard Cancer Institute at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, is to grill pineapple, banana, apple or pear slices. Grilling concentrates flavors by reducing the water content, and further sweetens the fruit as natural sugars are caramelized by the heat.  

Dark chocolate is a known powerful source of antioxidants as research shows it can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and raise HDLs, reducing your risk for heart disease. One healthy, easy-to-make dessert is to melt dark chocolate and spread it over parchment paper. Then sprinkle dried cherries, chopped nuts or sunflower seeds over it; refrigerate for five minutes and cut into small pieces. Another variation is to dip fresh strawberries or other fruit into melted dark chocolate. 

Yogurt parfaits are fun to put-together and can be customized to your taste. Using a parfait dish or small bowl, add granola, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, peanut butter or seeds, layering with yogurt. To cut down on fat, use nonfat or low-fat yogurt as it still provides a good source of protein without the calories. 

How about banana ice cream made from frozen pureed bananas mixed with almond milk? If you like, add in peanut butter and nuts. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top, which is “thought to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help diabetics manage their blood sugar levels.” 

MorningStar of Happy Valley has 61 private suites for assisted living and another 27 secure memory care suites. Part of our many services includes Executive-chef inspired meals served restaurant-style. Meals are made largely from scratched with the freshest of ingredients. We also use “BrainWise Foods” known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Please visit our website to learn more about our community as well as to inquire about availability. 

Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/healthy-dessertsand-theyre-tasty-too?slide=10&src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Sep%2005%2007%3A49%3A00%20EDT%202021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_term=Your%20Health

Assisted Living can Enhance Seniors’ 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 Happy Valley 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 mean immediate help is at hand.     

MorningStar of Happy Valley offers seniors assistance with another all-too common problem of medication mismanagement. The JAMA Internal Medicine journal recently 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-complaint” 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. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar of Happy Valley’s trusted assisted living and memory care.  

Source:  

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

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

When Professionals Debate over Medical Care, We Typically Win

 

Doctors say the public should understand while information on best practices in medical care may change over time and/or in some cases the medical community is not speaking with one voice; it is not necessarily a bad thing. Rather it is often a result of new research and scientific facts surfacing changing the debate and the messaging. 

Nowhere have we seen more changes evolve in medical recommendations and advice than over the last year in regard to COVID-19. Experts explain this is an excellent example of new information coming in over a period of time that updated our knowledge of an unknown virus, which had rapidly spread across the globe before we had learned much about it. In a recent article in the U.S. News & World Report, Dr. Neel Anand, M.D., says, “It isn't new or unique to COVID-19. To be honest, debate among scientists and medical experts is precisely how the targeted and most effective therapies and treatments develop.”

Medical progress evolves much like other scientific progress, and involves formulating a hypothesis and then setting out to prove or disprove it. Healthy debate helps to move us forward and typically the end result is good for our own medical care. However Dr. Anand cautions if scientific debate is going to be useful in advancing medicine, it requires real experts. For example, he says as a doctor specializing in spinal surgery, he would not consider it fruitful to debate the specifics of spinal surgery from someone who isn’t a qualified physician or researcher in the field.  

This is why doctors and scientists have often disagreed or changed guidelines on COVID-19 as well as on other medical conditions and illnesses. Doctors say it is an example of how the scientific process works, which allows them to make better decisions regarding care.

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community, we offer 61 private assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us with any questions you may have as we are happy to talk to you about your or a loved one’s care.   

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/debate-in-medicine-is-good-for-everyone 

Looking for Assisted Living in Rio Rancho, NM?

 

Looking for the best senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers? MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides assisted living residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit.   Our residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out and include courtyards featuring artwork and trellises, strolling paths, bistro, chapel/theatre, and fitness room.  Delicious meals prepared by our Executive Chef are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room.

However, our stylish design does not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including lots of lighting, high ceilings, and large windows as well a kitchenette with refrigerator. One- and two- bedroom suites have washers and dryers.   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.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  

All assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with the Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more). Access to a licensed nurse is available onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock.  We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers.  Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically re-evaluate care plans and make changes as needed.   

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.  

At the heart of our community, and what we are most proud of, is our team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve.  Please visit our website for contact information.  We are happy to answer any questions and look forward to hearing from you.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Rio Rancho, NM has to offer. 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. 

Learn More About MorningStar of Rio Rancho

 

MorningStar’s goal is to provide the best senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. Our Rio Rancho community has 51 bright suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 26 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.   

MorningStar Senior Living has over 30 communities currently open or under construction all across the country, including three in New Mexico.  MorningStar of Rio Rancho, with a loving care team and outstanding architecture and design, provides seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.

MorningStar began in 2003 when founder, Ken Jaeger had a dream to start a senior housing company that was defined by the human touch. He says, “I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  From this came our guiding principles and three mission statements our company is based on:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics
• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence
• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents

To eloquently illustrate our mission, all of our communities have a specially commissioned piece of art hanging in them.  The “Tree of Life embodies and celebrates our Mission and our Name.  Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar Senior Living and our beautiful community.  

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents.  Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.   

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.  

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. 

Are You Separated from Your Grandkids?

 

Even without a worldwide pandemic going on around us, many of us live a distance away from our grandkids and we may only get the chance to see them once or twice a year.  While long-distance relationships can be tough and make it hard to feel connected, you do not have to resign your to being left out of your grandkids’ lives just because of proximity.  

There are several good ideas to help you stay connected even when you are not there in person such as FaceTime or Skype video calls. For little ones who can get restless pretty quickly, be ready to read a picture book, sing songs or tell silly stories.  Along with calls for birthdays and holidays, be sure to do it often enough so you keep up with their quickly changing developmental milestones.  If they are older, play games together, discuss a shared hobby, exchange jokes and riddles, ask questions, and then really listen.  

Another way to stay connected is to start a family facebook page.  This is an easy, inexpensive way for any family member to post current pictures and to share day-to-day news as well as significant events.  It also lets other members add comments.  Also, do not forget about snail mail.  Kids love receiving mail and answering you back is a good way to get them to practice the art of letter writing.  

For grandkids who live close by and were used to seeing you several times a week, they may be wondering when they will see you again in person now that you are social distancing.  Experts suggest you talk honestly to your grandchildren about the separation and keep reminding them it is only temporary.   Tell them you have not forgotten them and that you will keep calling and they can keep calling you.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills is safely accepting assisted living and memory care residents, confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. We are closely following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and regulatory authorities to ensure the health of all beneath our roof.  Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to creating a true home for residents.

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. 

Are You Considering Memory Care for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease?

 

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 aversively 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 Happy Valley offers 27 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 our website for more information about MorningStar and our Happy Valley community.  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.

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.