Keep Your Brain Fit!

More and more research supports the importance of seniors staying physical fit as well as keeping their brains’ fit. Harvard Health Publishing reports on research with mice and humans that show “brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells, developing neurological ‘plasticity’ and building up a functional reserve that provides a hedge against future cell loss.” 

Mentally stimulating activity such as trivia and memory games, puzzles, crosswords, board and card games can help maintain brain function. Even if you don’t have a partner to play with, many of these types of games can be found on a computer or tablet. Reading, taking courses, drawing, painting and experimenting with things that require manual dexterity are stimulating mental gymnastics. Other great brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities like playing an instrument or dancing.

Board games, such as chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out. Another added benefit to playing games with other is companionship.

Experts say physical activity is also necessary for good brain health as it increases the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain responsible for thought. It encourages the development of “new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells (synapses).” Another positive side effect of exercise is it also improves your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure, improving blood sugar balance and reducing mental stress. Brain health is also improved with good nutrition. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, unsaturated oils (olive oil) and plant sources of proteins may help to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s assisted living is dedicated to making your retirement years carefree. By providing a range of meaningful programs, tasty, nutritional meals, 24/7 care, residents are able to lead a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best assisted 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. Our community will open in the spring of 2019. In the meantime, visit our Information Center to talk to our team about incomparable senior housing in Rio Rancho NM. 

Source:
health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/12-ways-to-keep-your-brain-young
mindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/

A Fall is Dangerous for an Older Adult

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 muscles strength and keeps joints, tendon, 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. 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community is designed from the ground up to provide a safe, supportive and loving environment. We provide 24/7 Care Managers, access to licensed nurses, and much more. Please visit our website for availability and pricing. 

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. Opening to residents in the spring of 2019, we invite you to visit our Information Center to learn more about the finest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

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

Have Questions Regarding Our Care?

If you are searching for assisted living for yourself or a parent, you probably have some questions regarding what type of care is offered. At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we understand the concerns families have and provide answers to FAQs on our website as a good way to get you started. For example, one question we get asked often is our age requirement and the answer is you must be at least 62 years old. We also get asked if couples can live together. Of course! Couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or suites can be shared by friends of the same sex who simply enjoy one another’s company.

Another question we are frequently asked is, “do we offer short-term stays.” Yes, it is based on availability and we do ask that you commit to at least a week’s stay or a full month. This gives you the chance to sample a life free from cooking and household chores, and to participate in a bustling calendar of activities and enjoy the instant companionship. 

If you are concerned that your parent may not get the care they need, there is no reason to worry. Before your parent joins our community, our Wellness Director (a licensed nurse) will sit down with your family to discuss your parent’s medical history and personal preferences. From here, we create an individualized care plan that meets everyone’s approval. This plan will be routinely evaluated and updated as the need arises. 

You will also find our pet policy on our FAQs page. We are a pet friendly community and recognize the tremendous benefits animals offer to all of us. We do assess an animal’s appropriateness for our community on a case-by-case basis, and we have some restrictions on breeds. There is also a one-time, nonrefundable pet fee.

We encourage you to visit our website to read the answers to other questions you may have regarding our assisted living. However if you do not see the information you need, please give us a call as we are ready to help. We look forward to meeting you and your family. 

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. Opening to residents in the spring of 2019, we invite you to visit our Information Center to learn more about exceptional senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Exercise Can Improve Longevity & Quality of Life

The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that, “even gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming can increase lifespan by around three to five years.” They say it can also help prevent falls by improving muscle strength and balance as well as reduce the risk of chronic diseases, depression and cognitive decline. 

Regular cardiovascular exercise such as walking, cycling or light housework (anything that raises the heart rate) helps to reduce the risk of a stroke or heart attack. They increase blood flow to the heart and improve your overall health. In addition many older adults, especially women, are at risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures. These conditions benefit from weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, climbing stairs, dancing, or step aerobics. The WHO reports that exercise reduces the risk of a hip fracture by as much as 40%. If you have osteoporosis, doctors advise against putting any sudden or excessive strain on your bones. Please check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercises as they can give you safe ones to do. 

The WHO also states that exercise is an effective remedy to improve many chronic health conditions including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. They recommend older adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity each week.” They add that older adults with “poor mobility should perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on 3 or more days per week.”

A new study from the American Geriatrics Society published in the Science Daily, found that exercise training yields the most significant improvements in “functional balance, daily activity, fear of falling, and depression levels.” Seniors who participated in regular exercise programs were also found to have more confidence and independence. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we are committed to providing our residents with an atmosphere of comfort, wellness and community. Our gorgeous new residential home offers assisted living and memory care along with a wide range of resort-style amenities and care services. Please see our website for contact information. 

Before starting any new exercises, please consult with your healthcare provider

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. As one of the top senior living communities in the area, we invite you to contact us or visit our onsite Information Center (opening in early February). 

Source:
who.int/dietphysicalactivity/factsheet_olderadults/en/
go4life.nia.nih.gov/exercising-with-chronic-conditions-heart-disease-diabetes-arthritis-and-osteoporosis/
sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/07/070705123157.htm

Tips to Help You Keep Your New Year’s Resolution for a Healthy You!

We all know the holidays are a good excuse to heartily enjoy the rich, festive foods that make an appearance this time of the year. However with the New Year, it is an excellent time to get back to a healthier lifestyle or to start one. 

As many seniors do not exercise as much as they once did, most do not require as many calories as they use to consume so the foods they do choose need to rich in nutrients. One good way to start eating healthier is by adding more fruits and veggies to your diet and when you do snack, to make sure it is a healthy one. Rather than potato chips and candies, choose fruit smoothies, Greek yogurt with fruit, cheese and crackers, fresh fruit, veggies and low-fat dip, or nuts and trail mixes. 

Experts recommend starting your morning with a hydrating warm drink and to remember to continue to drink half your body weight in water each day. Also stay active, and if you don’t already have a work-out buddy, find one as it can make it more fun to exercise. In addition, studies show that making meals a social affair encourages better eating habits. 

When MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community opens this spring, our residents will be treated to a 5 Star dining experience. Our meals are prepared under the guidance of our own Executive Chef and prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients. We also offer a range of wellness programs and activities, which include fun exercise classes suitable for our residents. Visit our website for pricing and availability and be sure to inquiry about our “Founder’s Club” savings. 

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

Assisted Living May be a Better Bargain than You Think

We know research indicates senior living may be a healthier option for older adults especially after the death of a spouse, but did you know that assisted living may actually be a better bargain than in-home care. Many families are surprised to hear that but according to cost comparisons done by A Place for Mom, once you piece together all of the services needed to ensure the person’s comfort and safety, staying in their own home might be more costly. 

This of course depends on the extend of care your parent requires, but keep in mind that at home, they are still responsible for mortgage payments or monthly rent, property taxes and property insurance. If they live in a condominium, they may also have a maintenance fee. If your parent lives alone and does not have 24/7 care, you should probably get a 24-hour emergency call service. Add to that housekeeping services, landscaping/snow removal and other home maintenance, and your monthly expenses can be considerable.

Now figure in the costs for daily health aide visitations and a personal care assistant to help with activities such as bathing, dressing and preparing meals. Furthermore you may incur costs for transportation to and from things like doctor appointments, grocery shopping and banking. And finally, while there is not a price tag on alleviating loneliness, moving into senior housing provides instant companionship whenever it is desired. 

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Rio Rancho lovingly offer a whole host of wellness programs and activities designed to engage and support residents’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social wellbeing. Opening in the spring of 2019, our community will fill a well-needed niche in senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM; a fast growing suburb of Albuquerque. We have 51 private assisted living suites and 26 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We invite you to stop by our onsite Information Center at the northwest corner of Westside Boulevard and Golf Course Road for more details on exceptional assisted living and memory care. 

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

Source:
aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/assisted-living-in-home-care-compared

Take Extra Care during the Flu Season

Now that the 2018-19 flu season is in full-swing, everyone needs to follow good health habits to lessen the spread of the disease. It is especially important to be careful around the elderly, as the disease can have deadly consequences for them. If you have not already done so, it is not too late to get a flu shot, and if you have the flu or flu like symptoms, please do not visit an elderly parent or loved one until you are symptom free for 72 hours. 

The Oregon Health Authority has some tips to help decrease your chances of getting the flu or infecting someone else with the virus starting by staying home from work or school if you are sick. When you cough or sneeze, be sure to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue and then throw it away when you are done. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water and use an alcohol-base hand sanitizer when water and soap are unavailable. They also suggest you avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as well as clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them. 

The flu causes mild to severe respiratory illnesses that can result in hospitalization. Each year the virus kills thousands of people and those at higher risk include adults 65 years and older, children, and pregnant women. Also anyone with a chronic medical condition or weak immune system is at higher risk for complications.

As one of the newest senior living communities in the greater Portland area, MorningStar of Happy Valley will offer 61 assisted living suites and 27 secure suites for memory care. Residents will have 24/7 care and a wide assortment of resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. We look forward to meeting future residents and their families at our soon-to-open onsite Information Center. Please visit our website for details.

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. Once we open in the fall of this year, we promise to be one of the top senior living communities in the area. 

Source: oregon.gov/oha/ERD/Pages/FluSeasonHasBegunGoodTimeGetVaccinated.aspx

A Unique Senior Living Company that Believes in Philanthropic Work

MorningStar of Happy Valley is currently under construction in Happy Valley and promises to be a unique addition to the area’s other senior living communities. Along with offering older adults compassionate, loving assisted living and memory care, our company also believes in taking part in philanthropic work locally here in Oregon and globally.

When we open in the fall of 2019, our services will include hosting and participating in fun and inspiring activities sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association and other senior-focused not-for-profit organizations. As our other MorningStar Senior Living communities do, we will encourage our staff, residents and families to join us in whatever capacity they can in the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” event. The 5K Walk is the world’s largest event and raises awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. By next year, we hope to have family members and staff as walkers, runners, and sponsors.

Also every year our communities across the Western U.S. host celebrations for the “The Longest Day” event on June 21, which again is intended to raise funds and awareness for treatments and a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Among our many communities, each one hosts their own activities, and we look forward to all of us helping MorningStar of Happy Valley plan our own unique celebrations. 

In addition MorningStar Senior Living also feels a responsibility to serving and investing in charitable projects around the world. One such project is helping to build and support an orphanage for Hurricane Felix’s victims in Nicaragua. 

The more you know about MorningStar of Happy Valley, the more you will understand it is unlike other senior living communities. Our mission includes hiring a team of caregivers with a felt calling to serve to ensure our residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Visit our website or look for our soon-to-open onsite Information Center in early February. We are just southeast of Portland and three miles from Interstate 205.

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 in Happy Valley.

Specialized Dementia Care Under a “Lavender Sky”

MorningStar at Englefield Green is Boise, Idaho’s specialized dementia care experts.  Our community provides 50 secure suites in a variety of floor plans for permanent and short term residents. Unlike many other Alzheimer’s care homes, our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.  

Our holistic approach to dementia 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 at Englefield Green, 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 on one of Boise’s most experienced, compassionate Alzheimer’s care homes. 

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.  Contact us - your loved one deserves the finest dementia care!  

Have Questions about the Care & Pricing of Our Assisted Living?

When our community opens in late 2019, MorningStar of Happy Valley will be one of the most exceptional senior living communities in the area. For many seniors, assisted living is a new experience and we understand that there are lots of questions in regard to how personalized care is managed and how much it will cost. 

The MorningStar of Happy Valley’s leadership team is already in place and welcomes phone call and email inquiries regarding our community or a visit to our onsite Information Center (opening in early Feb). In addition our website offer lots of resources regarding MorningStar Senior Living including our company’s history and philosophy as well as details on how we determine the individualized care each resident will receive. 

Under our website’s FAQ section, we explain that our assisted living care is based on a thorough assessment of the resident’s medical history and personal preferences. We learn this information by sitting down with the person, their family, and our Wellness Director (a licensed nurse) before they move in. From there, a care plan is created that is approved by both the resident and their family. To ensure our residents’ needs continue to be met, we do scheduled plan evaluations as well as update plans as needed. 

Within our assisted living, we have five levels of care along with a wide range of auxiliary medical and non-medical services that are priced a la carte. Care services determine a part of your monthly fee, but it is also based on the type of suite you choose within our choice of 61 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Square footage as well as location and views are additional factors in the overall monthly fee. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley also provides 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The monthly fee in our Reflections Neighborhood memory care is all-inclusive at a one-package price for both the suite and care. Please visit our website to learn more about our compassionate, loving community. 

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

Our Onsite Information Center Opens Soon!

The MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community is pleased to announce the opening of our onsite Information Center in early February. We are located on the south side of SE Sunnyside Road between SE 142nd Ave. and SE 145th Ave, and about three miles from Interstate 205. The popular Happy Valley food-cart park borders us to the east and Clackamas Town Center is just minutes away. 

Scheduled to open in late 2019, we are one of the area’s most luxurious, well-planned senior living communities. We will offer 61 stylish, private suites in a range of configurations designed to meet the most discerning seniors’ needs. Floor plans include spacious studios; one-bedroom, one bath; and two-bedroom, two baths apartments as large as 928 sq. ft. All of our suites are equipped with a kitchenette that includes a full apartment-size fridge and handicap-accessible bathrooms. 

Our modern suites are also designed with lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds. In other words, they are all ready to move into and just require your personal furnishing and treasures. Furthermore we understand that our residents do not want to leave behind a beloved pet, which is why we are pet friendly! 

For your safety, suites are equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system, and have a separate heating & air conditioning system to allow you to control your own comfort. Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services. Trash is picked up daily. 

We look forward to meeting interested Happy Valley families once our Information Center is open. In the meantime we encourage you to give us a call. Please visit our website for contact information and to view a couple of artist’s renditions of what our beautiful community will look like when it is complete. 

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 in Happy Valley.

Preventing Falls in Older Adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that more than one in four adults age 65 years and older falls each year. Many falls do not cause serious injuries. However, one out of five falls cause an injury such as a broken bone or a head injury. Statistics show that 3 million older adults are treated in an emergency department each year for nonfatal falls, and over 800,000 are hospitalized. 

The National Institute of Health (NIH) advises that seniors “fall proof” both the inside and outside of their homes. Every room should have clear pathways that are free of clutter and other obstacles that could cause a fall. All carpets should be securely attached to floors and stairways, and rather than throw rugs, use non-slip rugs or apply non-slip strips. 

Another suggestion from the NIH is to have good lighting throughout your home including well-lit hallways, entrances, and stairwells. Also have a lamp close to your bed that is easy to turn on to avoid stumbling around in the dark when getting in and out of bed. 

In addition, wearing the proper shoes is also an important part of preventing falls. Shoes should fit well and have low heels, non-slip soles and completely surround your foot. Other safety tips include installing handrails and grab bars in the bathroom. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our beautiful community is designed to accommodate our residents’ limitations. All of our spacious private suites come with wall-to-wall carpeting, fully handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. We also provide a 24/7 care staff and a full-time licensed nurse. Please visit our website to learn more.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills, we represent the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to schedule a tour.

Resort-style Amenities at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

If you are looking for senior living in the Fountain Hills, AZ area we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Fountain Hills. Along with offering 63 bright suites for assisted living and 28 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, we provide residents with a wide range of resort-style amenities. 

Opened in November 2016, our community was meticulously designed to provide our residents with all the comforts of home to ensure carefree retirement years. In addition to the warm and welcoming common rooms and private suites that are ready to move into, we have a loving, dedicated staff that is honored to serve seniors. 

As a resident, you will enjoy three daily meals that are expertly prepared by our own Executive Chef. Our meals are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room, and for intimate dinners, we offer a private dining room. Our community also includes a chapel/theatre, bistro, massage room, fitness center and spa bath. MorningStar of Fountain Hills also has an onsite salon that offers hairstyling, manicures and pedicures. 

Around our exterior spaces, we have an atrium with a water feature, fireside patio and porches, and an enclosed patio and courtyard reserved for memory care residents. Inside, our community has a cozy, inviting living room and a beautiful interior patio (assisted living) as well as our life enrichment center where many of our wellness programs and activities take place. Other services include scheduled transportation, a 24-hour care staff, full-time licensed nurse and much more. 

We encourage you to set up a tour to see for yourself our exceptional community. Our suites are available in a variety of configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 870 square feet). Please visit our website to learn more. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we strive to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the best assisted living in Fountain Hills, AZ.

Good Health Habits are Especially Important for Those with Alzheimer’s

Seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia need to maintain their overall health as studies have found that poor health is associated with greater symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  This is why experts stress the importance of being under the care of a qualified doctor and following good health habits such as exercise, eating nutrient-rich meals, and properly caring for any chronic or new health problems. 

Doctors also advise the individual should have routine hearing and vision exams and any problems be treated appropriately.  Along with being seen by their primary care provider, the person should see specialists as needed.  The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation explains that co-existing medical conditions may negatively impact Alzheimer’s behaviors. They state one example where “frequent urinary tract infections may increase wandering, and depression disrupts sleep and deepens social withdrawal.”   

While it is important for all seniors to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, it is especially so for people with dementia as they may experience problems with eating.  Nerve damage associated with the disease may result in extreme eating disorders such as overeating or not eating at all.  The person may also have trouble smelling and tasting or chewing food and digesting it, so what they do eat needs to be healthy.  In later stages of the disease, the person may also have difficulty using a knife or fork. 

As one of Boise’s foremost Alzheimer’s care homes, MorningStar at Englefield Green understands the disease and the different stages it takes.  Our team of dementia care specialists creates an individualized care plan for each resident based on their needs, personality and preferences.  With 50 secure suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations including spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments, we are sure to have one that fits your needs.  Please visit our website for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour to experience our compassionate, loving community.  

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.  To learn more about one of the area’s top Alzheimer’s care homes, please visit our website.

Coping with an Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnoses

If you have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you are not alone. It is estimated that 5.7 million Americans have Alzheimer's, and one in ten people age 65 years and older has the disease. As a way to help families impacted by the disease, the Alzheimer’s Association provides a variety of resources and services. 

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear. Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through. There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated. 

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward. They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.” 

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through. One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy. They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able. Finally they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.” 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills our secure and loving Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. We leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort residents, while taking into consideration the uniqueness of each person. Our team works every day to make a difference in the lives of our memory care residents. 

MorningStar of Fountain Hill’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional assisted living community.

Source: alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz

Frequent Walks May Help Slow Memory Loss

An article from the New York Times reports on a study that achieved modest improvement in the physical decline and memory loss for some people in the early-stages of Alzheimer’s. Conducted by the University of Kansas, it is one of the first studies to use physical activity as an experimental treatment for dementia and their results suggest frequent, brisk walks may help to “bolster physical abilities and slow memory loss” 

While the improvements were not universal in all study participants, researchers are now considering the question of why exercise helps some people with dementia and not others. We know earlier studies support a correlation between regular physical exercise and improved memory and also find that active seniors are less likely to develop mild cognitive decline, which is a frequent precursor to Alzheimer’s. This may be due to the fact that brain scans show physically active older people have more volume in their brain’s hippocampus (the part of the brain linked to memory function) than their sedentary peers.

Until this study, most of the research has involved trying to prove whether or not exercise can help to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s. In this new research, published by PLOSOne, it considers whether or not exercise can help to improve the trajectory of the disease. The participants were all older adults who had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and were still in the early stages. They also had the ability to walk well. 

The research “assessed the effect of 26 weeks (6 months) of a supervised aerobic exercise program on memory, executive function, functional ability and depression in early AD.” The conclusion drawn from the study suggests that the exercise fitness gains produced not only improved memory performance but reduced hippocampal atrophy. It is still unclear why only some of the participants’ fitness endurance and brain activity improved. Researchers speculate that perhaps a specific exercise program may be more beneficial to a wider group of participants. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand the finest assisted living in the area.

Selling the Family Home to Move into Senior Living

The time may be right for you or your parents to move into a senior assisted living community but you are concerned about selling the house. We are all aware that the housing market has recovered from the poor market of several years ago but finding the right buyer can often still be a challenge. 

There are some things you can do to give yourself an edge over the competition. The most important thing is to set the right price as a house priced too high is just not going to sell in any market. Be sure to take condition of your home into account and sale prices of comparable houses in the area. Do not assume the price necessarily reflects the assessed value. 

If your house has been on the market for a while, re-evaluate what is going on and discuss with your agent any feedback he is getting from prospective buyers. It may be some repairs and upgrades are advisable and could make a difference. Remember that an old house can just look old, or with a few well-placed updates, you can transform it into a classic.

Steps to staging your home to get ready to sell:

Clean everything inside and out. Do not forget windows and steam clean the carpets. Make sure to eliminate any pet or cigarette odors. Paint walls that are dirty and replace stained or worn out carpet (consider putting in wood or tile floors). Stick to neutral colors.

Fix anything that is broken or damaged. You could consider having a home inspection done as a buyer will probably do one anyway. It allows you to take care of repairs beforehand.

Get rid of clutter throughout the house and do not forget countertops. Removing as much as possible will help to give the impression of more room. 

Take down anything that could be offensive and put away personal items and mementos. The idea is to let a prospective buyer picture living there. 

Open blinds and windows to give more light and let fresh air in if the weather is cooperative. Set out a vase of cut flowers.

Sometimes seniors think it is better to modify their current home and postpone moving into a senior living community. Studies show that making even small modifications can negatively affect home equity down the road when someone wants to sell. People can feel disconnected to a house that looks like an “old person’s” home. 

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest assisted living and memory care in Fountain Hills, AZ contact us to schedule a tour.

Assisted Living Offers Peace of Mind to Families

For family members, assisted living and memory care can offer peace of mind knowing that your parent or loved one is receiving the care and companionship they need to live safely and as independently as possible. However we recognize that for some adult children or spouses, considering assisted living brings up feelings of guilt as you think you are not doing enough for them. 

As an adult child, you may realize that you have too many responsibilities already on your plate including your own children, a job and other constraints but still feel guilty about not offering your parent a home with you. Even if you are a caregiver that has reached the point where you know the job is taking a toll on your own health and well-being and you are no longer able to provide the level of care your loved needs, you may still be hesitant to make changes. 

This is why assisted living and memory care communities such as MorningStar of Fountain Hills offer the perfect solution. Our purpose is not to replace you in the life of your aging parent or spouse but rather to assist you in your efforts to make their lives easier, safer and more comfortable. 

Our community, recently celebrating its two-year anniversary, was designed and built to accommodate the needs of seniors. Every aspect of our interior common rooms and suites as well as the outdoor grounds is intended to make our residents feel like they are in a true “home.” From beautiful, private suites that are just waiting for your personal furnishings, delicious three meals a day served restaurant-style, activities galore or companionship; we provide a lovely home. Please contact us with any questions you may have or set up a visit to see our beautiful community. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please schedule a tour to experience firsthand our exceptional community.

Amenities & Services Designed to Meet Every Need

If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of memory loss, you may want to contact one of Boise’s premier Alzheimer’s care homes, MorningStar at Englefield Green.  Our 50-suite community is equipped to care for someone in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.   

To ensure our residents feel right at home and that their every need is met, we provide a full range of amenities and services.  From the moment you walk through our door, you will discover a loving home filled with warm and inviting common areas throughout that offer a safe environment for residents to move about freely.  Our spacious community has four fireside living rooms, secure courtyards, a life enrichment room, bistro, library, theater (including Wii), and a full salon.  We also provide scheduled transportation for trips to doctor appointments and other errands. 

All residents are encouraged to participate in a full range of daily wellness programs and activities designed to support and engage their physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connections.  Each day is begun with our Morning Meeting followed by physical exercise suitable for our residents.  We also offer musical entertainment and sing-alongs as well as planned outings such as scenic drives or walks around the neighborhood.  A few examples of our scheduled activities include Sit & Be Fit, Yoga for Wellness, Craft Time, Bingo, trivia and card games, and movie time. 

Furthermore the MorningStar at Englefield Green family has fun celebrating holidays and participating in special events such as our “Longest Day” or our “Sip and Paint” activities in support of the Alzheimer’s Association.  At our inaugural Sock Hop, residents, staff, and families all enjoyed dancing like nobody was watching!

Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand our unique approach to memory care.  As dementia care specialist, we feel privileged to walk alongside our residents and their families on this unexpected journey. 

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Are you looking for the best dementia care in Boise?  Please visit our website to learn about availability.