Assisted Living Supports & Encourages Good Health Habits

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into assisted living facilities, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives.   

Along with supplying built-in companionship, assisted living facilities such as MorningStar of Rio Rancho strive to enrich the lives of our residents with a range of activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.  In addition it solves the problem of many elderly adults who live alone that find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living at our gorgeous community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that also with scheduled transportation to area shopping malls as well as trips to the doctors and to run errands. 

Our holistic approach to assisted living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassionate.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment.  And if we do not have a program or activities that peaks your interest or offer a hobby you would love to explore, we invite you to start a club. 


Our assisted living and memory care Rio Rancho, NM community is set to open any day now.  We are conveniently located within a residential setting and just blocks away from the Presbyterian Rust Medical Center, stores, restaurants, and banks.  Contact us via email, give us a call, or visit our onsite Information Center. 

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.  Our community will open in the spring of 2019. In the meantime, visit our Information Center to talk to our team about unparalleled senior housing in Rio Rancho NM. 

Delicious, Nutritional Meals You Will No Longer Need to Make Yourself

MorningStar of Rio Rancho is slated to become one of the premier assisted living facilities in the area.  We are MorningStar Senior Living’s third assisted living and memory care community in New Mexico, which includes MorningStar of Albuquerque and our newly opened MorningStar of Santa Fe.  

As a resident, you will be treated to a whole host of resort-style amenities and care services including a 5 star dining experience.  All residents are treated to three daily meals prepared under the supervision of our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our charming dining room.  We understand that food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living. We also know food always taste better and is enjoyed more when shared in community and breaking bread together helps to bonds us a family and as friends. 

Our meals are prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients from the highest quality local producers.  MorningStar’s Chef looks forward to feedback from residents and is open to suggestions. At each meal, residents will have choices to self-manage their dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat dishes.  

We also believe in BrainWise foods and use ingredients known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Thus as the MorningStar’s culinary team strives to create meals that delight the eye and palate, they also leverage the phenomenal benefits of superfoods such as Omega 3 fats, acai berries, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Our community will offer 51 private assisted living suites as well as 26 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  While residents’ apartments are their own private nest, our community also has lots of common areas both inside and out that are designed to encourage residents to sit and relax with friends.  To learn more about pricing and availability, please email or give us a call.

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.  Soon to open, we invite you to contact us to learn more about unsurpassed senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Loss of Smell May be a Sign of Alzheimer’s

A recent study has revealed a link between a declining sense of smell and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease.  Researchers found that neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s has a notable effect on the brain circuits that process our sense of smell.

The 2016 study was conducted by the Massachusetts General Hospital and involved a group of 183 participants of which 70 were cognitively normal and 74 tested normal on cognitive tests but were concerned about their cognitive abilities.  Another 29 had MCI and 10 had been diagnosed with possible Alzheimer’s.  Those who performed more poorly on the olfactory tests were found more likely to have the variant of the APOE gene, related to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.  One of the study’s authors, Mark Albers, MD, PhD, assistant professor of neurology at Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, states, “There is increasing evidence that the neurodegeneration behind Alzheimer’s disease starts at least 10 years before the onset of memory symptoms.”  Furthermore he stresses the benefit of an early diagnosis as the individuals can begin appropriate therapeutic treatments. 

Dr. Albers continues, “If these results hold up, this sort of inexpensive, noninvasive screening could help us identify the best candidates for novel therapies.”  In addition identifying the disease early may also be instrumental in helping to develop effective treatments that will delay and slow the progress of the disease.    

MorningStar at Englefield Green is a specialized dementia care community that provides the Boise, Idaho area with compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 50 suites include studio and one-and two bedrooms floor plans and all of the amenities and services required to provide the best care.  To get a first-hand look at our loving home, we suggest you schedule a tour.  If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help. 

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself one of the area’s most compassionate Alzheimer’s care homes.    

Source: universityhealthnews.com/daily/memory/losing-sense-of-smell-is-early-sign-dementia/ 

Assisted Living that Caters to All of Your Needs

MorningStar of Rio Rancho is getting ready to open its doors to our residents.  As the area’s newest assisted living and memory care community, we will fill a well-needed niche for senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM; a fast growing suburb of Albuquerque.  Our community has 51 private assisted living suites, and another 26 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. 
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If you or a loved one is considering a move to assisted living and are wondering how your costs are determined, we can provide you with a general guideline.  Assisted living offers seniors 62 years and older compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting and each resident’s care is personalized to address their needs.  Even before you even move in, MorningStar’s Wellness Director will sit down with you and your family and do a thorough assessment in order to create an individualized care plan. Once you have moved in, your trained Care Managers will see to it your needs are met, and as we do routine Care Plan reviews, any changes to your health will be addressed.  

You monthly fee is based on a couple of things including your choice of apartment (we offer spacious studios and one-and two bedrooms suites) and its location within the building and views.  In addition we offer five levels of care for assisted living, and your level will be determined by your care plan. MorningStar also offer a range of auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, which are priced a la carte.     

Seniors who do not currently required assistance with ADLs but love the idea of living in a compassionate community with predictable budgeting, built-in socializing, lots of activities, and tasty meals are also welcome.  MorningStar of Rio Rancho is designed to meet residents’ every need and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please visit our website for more information.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Opening over the next few months, we invite you to visit our Information Center to learn more about one of the area’s top assisted living facilities.

May is Mental Health Month

Mental Health Awareness Month (also referred to as "Mental Health Month") was first observed in the United States in May 1949 and raises awareness of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.  In mid-March the organization releases a toolkit of materials that serves as a guide to prepare for the year’s various outreach activities. This May will mark the organization’s 70th year celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month.   

Last year’s theme was Fitness #4Mind4Body and focused on helping individuals determine what they could do to increase their fitness for the future regardless of where they were on their own personal journey to health and wellness.  The 2019 theme continues along those lines and takes it to the next level. It explores the “topics of animal companionship (including pets and support animals), spirituality, humor, work-life balance, and recreation and social connections as ways to boost mental health and general wellness.”  

The National Mental Health Association says that each year more than one in five Americans experience a mental illness or substance abuse disorder.  Thus their goal is to make people aware of the signs and symptoms of these problems so they can help affected family members or friends get the care and treatment they need.   
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The University of Michigan suggests several things we can do to protect our mental health.  The first is to value ourselves. They say be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Each day make time for hobbies or enjoyable projects and try to broaden your horizons.  Then care for your body, which includes avoiding cigarettes, drinking plenty of water, eating nutritional food, and exercising. Also get plenty of sleep. Maintain strong family and/or social connections and try to do something to help someone else.  They also it is important to learn how to deal with stress, and remember to smile.

As one of the most exceptional assisted living facilities in the area, MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living and memory care community will offer wellness programs and activities, resort-style amenities and fine dining.  Visit our website for pricing and availability.

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

Source:

mentalhealthamerica.net/may?gclid=CjwKCAjwv6blBRBzEiwAihbM-aJ26fekuOY7UWmuIvN30xSrigALt1YrKIgxKpmsGRrvo293M7QPsRoCF5QQAvD_BwE

uhs.umich.edu/tenthings

*Adapted from the National Mental Health Association/National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare

Holistic Memory Care Designed to Comfort and Elevate

As one of the newest senior living communities in the Greater Portland area, MorningStar of Happy Valley is scheduled to open in late 2019. We will bring to the area not only exceptional assisted living but our specialized, loving approach to memory care.  

Along with the recently opened MorningStar of Beaverton, MorningStar Senior Living operates senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar of Happy Valley benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained over their 15 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling - our privilege – to provide care to our most tender residents.  By devoting an entire wing to memory care called Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Thus each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  All of our team members regardless of their position will receive training in Lavender Sky, which will give them an expanded set of tools to provide residents with extraordinary care.

Our community will offer 61 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with a choice of floorplans from spacious studios to one- and two bedroom apartments.  We will have another 27 secure suites for memory care within our Reflections Neighborhood.  MorningStar of Happy Valley invites you to visit our website for directions to our onsite Information Center or give us a call to learn more. 
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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 luxurious and loving assisted living in Happy Valley.

Why Older Skin is So Delicate

If you are an older adult, you may have been surprised to find bruises on your body and not remember how you got them, or discovered other types of skin irritations that just seemed to appear out of nowhere.  There may be no cause for concern, (best to check with you healthcare provider) because as we age, our skin becomes much more sensitive than when we were younger.

Doctors say as we grow older, our skin begins to lose its elasticity causing it to hang more loosely and creating wrinkles.  The epidermis (the surface layer of the skin) starts to thin making it more transparent. The flattening of the area where the epidermis and dermis (the layer of skin under the epidermis) comes together also contributes to the skin fragility.  And frequent bruising is typically a result of the thinning of the blood vessel walls.

Megan L. Mulvane writes in HomeCareMag.com, “As the largest organ in the body, the skin performs regulatory functions including temperature maintenance, the expulsion of toxins through sweat and prevention of dehydration, and skin is part of the body’s defense system against infection.”  In fact she explains how the fragile nature of the skin in many who face bathing disabilities is complicated by the need to actively clean and take care of our skin as we strive to protect and enhance its integrity.

Good skin care habits for seniors include avoiding overusing soap or taking hot baths.  Apply lotion daily to keep skin soft, which should help to reduce skin tears. As ultraviolet (UV) light damages the elastin in our skin, it is important to wear sunblock when outdoors as well as hats and light clothing to cover the skin, and try to stay in the shade.  Moreover along with the other damage smoking does to our bodies, it is also damaging to the skin and one more reason to quit. Also remember to drink plenty of water each day as it is vital to every part of our body including our skin.

Please visit MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s website for more information on compassionate assisted living and memory care or just stop by our Information Center at the northwest corner of Westside Boulevard and Golf Course Road.  We are due to open soon so ask about availability for what is sure to be one of the area’s premier assisted living facilities.  

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 in spring of 2019, we invite to talk to our team regarding the finest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Source: webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-aging-skin#1

Common Myths Surrounding Alzheimer’s

There are many misconceptions about the causes of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  As traumatizing as it is for a family to learn a loved one has Alzheimer’s, it is also important to sort through the various truths and myths regarding the disease.    

One mistake many people make when they or a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is to think their life is over.  In reality, a person can live a productive life for many years.  Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important and should include a nutrient-rich diet and routine exercise.  Experts also note it is important to stay socially connected and engage in activities that challenge the brain.  As medication is more helpful in the earlier stages, getting a proper diagnosis is vital.     

People also fear that if a parent had Alzheimer’s, they will get it.  The facts are that “familiar Alzheimer’s disease accounts for less than 5% of all cases of Alzheimer’s disease.”  Furthermore remember Alzheimer’s is not only a disease of the elderly.  While there are many fewer cases, it does occur in people as young as in their 40s and 50s.

Another common myth is the belief that dental amalgam fillings containing a small amount of mercury caused the disease.  Studies have shown no such correlation between the two.  Others believe aluminum pans are responsible, and while a few studies suggest a small possibility, most experts think the link is questionable.   

Some people think memory loss is a natural progression of aging, but the truth is while many of us experience some decline in memory, if the loss is disrupting your day-to-day life, you need to see a healthcare provider.  Another thing to remember is a diagnosis of dementia is not necessary better than being told a person has Alzheimer’s, it is just another form of the disease. 

If you or a loved one is suffering from dementia, please contact one of the area’s most loving, professional Alzheimer’s care homes.  MorningStar at Englefield Green takes a holistic approach to dementia care that is individualized and encompasses the whole person. Please visit our website for more.   

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Visit our website to set up a tour to one of Boise’s finest Alzheimer’s care homes.

Source: alz.org/news/2018/senate-takes-bold-steps-in-fight-against-alzheimer

alzheimer.ca/en/Home/About-dementia/Alzheimer-s-disease/Myth-and-reality-about-Alzheimer-s-disease

Pet Therapy for Those with Dementia

Research has shown that people with dementia benefit physically, emotionally, socially and mentally from a connection between humans and animals.  Whether they are a furry, feathery or scaly friend, it appears that animals have the ability to help those with dementia in a number of ways. In numerous studies, therapeutic animals have drastically improved dementia symptoms and helped to elevate mood, decrease behavioral problems, improve nutrition, increase social interaction, and provide a calming effect.

Many people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia lose the ability to initiate and maintain social relationships as the disease progresses.  Dr. Mara Baun has extensively studied the psychological benefits pets provide to those with Alzheimer's disease. Her research found therapy animals “help decrease the symptoms of aggression and help increase socialization. The presence of a therapy pet helped decreased symptoms of "sundowning" in Alzheimer's patients.”

Dr Baun's sundowning study found that a therapy dog can provide “missed physical contact to a patient with Alzheimer's disease. It matters little to the pet if the person's body has deteriorated or if the stories are repeated over and over.”  The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication can be soothing for patients. In addition, animals offer unconditional love and endless forgiveness.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we strongly believe in the power of animals’ unconditional love and periodically bring in therapy animals to visit with our memory care residents.  In addition to our loving, compassionate memory care, we also offer assisted living, and in case you wondered, MorningStar is a pet friendly community!   If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

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 one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

Sources: verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677

chron.com/homes/senior_living-/article/Pets-increase-quality-of-life-for-Alzheimer-s-5759679.php

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, We Take Dining to the Next Level

As one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, MorningStar of Fountain Hills proudly takes dining to a new level with beautifully prepared meals served restaurant-style.  We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why we put so much emphasis on ensuring our food service is A+.

Furthermore, we believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed within a community setting.  When we break bread together, it is much more than just physical nutrients as it helps to bond us as a family and as friends.

To ensure our food service is both delicious and nutritional, we have our own highly-trained professional chef who is in charge of all meal prep.  Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients of which come from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced.  Meals are also modified to include an array of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat choices so that residents can self-manage any dietary restrictions.

Recognizing that nutrient-rich foods can help stimulate the appetite as well as support brain health, MorningStar meals are also prepared using ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.   These “super foods” include leafy, dark greens; dark chocolate; acai; berries, and Omega 3 fats. Most importantly mealtime at Fountain Hills is a time for residents to relax and enjoy the company of fellow residents or family and friends.

Located in a scenic desert community east of Scottsdale, MorningStar of Fountain Hills residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community within a loving, family atmosphere.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s best assisted living and memory care community, and while you are there, set up a tour to see for yourself why residents are proud to call us home.

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 one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Smartly Designed Floorplans at MorningStar of Fountain Hills

MorningStar Senior Living has some of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Peoria and Glendale AZ has to offer. With four communities in Metro Phoenix, MorningStar has a location which is convenient to all seniors in the area.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, our community was meticulously designed to accommodate every need of our assisted living and memory care residents.  For assisted living, we offer 63 graciously appointed suites in configurations that range from spacious studio to one- and two-bedroom floor plans as large as 870 sq. ft.   Our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases and has 28 secure suites.

Each of our stylish units offers high ceilings, large windows, lighting, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and is equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  Moreover basic cable TV and utilities is included in your monthly rent and every suite has its own heating and air conditioning system. We also offer weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  Also, in case you wondered, MorningStar of Fountain Hills is pet friendly.

We encourage you to visit our website and take a look at the gallery photos, suite features and variety of floor plans.  Keep in mind what you see on our site are representative floorplans and a full inventory of our many suite shapes and sizes can be obtained by contacting our Director of Community Relations, Traci Gregory.

While at our website, you can also set up a tour or email us for pricing and availability. We love showing off our community and we think you will see why our residents are proud to call MorningStar of Fountain Hills “home.”

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 one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

It is Healthier for People with Dementia to Stay Active & Involved

It is important that a person with dementia stay as active and engaged as possible and may even help to maintain quality of life in the more advanced stages of the disease.  Directing and encouraging the individual to be involved in meaningful activities can help preserve a sense of self-worth and purpose.   

Studies suggest activities should stimulate all five senses – sight, touch, sound, taste and smell.  The creative arts are a good example as they often touch on more than one of our senses.  Singing is one of the last abilities many people with Alzheimer’s lose, and often someone can sing along to a song even after they have lost other memories.  Most also enjoy listening to music.  Another good activity is to show the person a picture of someone or something and encourage them to tell a story about it.  Allowing them use their imagination releases them from the pressure of having to remember something that actually happened.    

Physical activities are also important and getting outside and taking a walk is not only good exercise but gives the person a new outlook.  Studies show that the ability to walk in the early stages of Alzheimer’s is well preserved in many people and some can walk for miles.  However others may develop a change in their gait even early-on so it is important to take care and evaluate the person’s ability to walk safely.  Dancing is another activity enjoyed by many with Alzheimer’s and has been shown to stimulate social interaction, enhance mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-awareness and self-expression. 

At MorningStar at Englefield Green, we could not agree more.  As dementia care specialists, we design an individualized routine for each resident that can stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Our daily calendar is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort residents.  Get the care your loved one deserves from one of the area’s top 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.  Are you looking for the best dementia care in Boise?  Please visit our website to learn about availability.

Source: cie.org.uk/dementia/living-with-dementia/keeping-active/

Socializing Reduces Cognitive Decline in Seniors

In order to thrive and lead fulfilling lives, people need to socialize with one another, and seniors are no different.  In fact studies show loneliness can have a detrimental effect on the elderly while socializing can help to enhance and enrich seniors’ lives.

An article in the US News & World Report discusses a study on seniors’ social interactions conducted by the Rush Memory and Aging Project and funded by the National Institute on Aging.  The study found that the most socially active seniors experienced one-fourth the rate of cognitive decline as seniors with the lowest levels of social activity.  The results were independent of other factors that may influence cognitive decline including physical activity, general health, and age.

During a five year period, the Rush University project followed 1,138 adults with an average age of 80.  Their research discovered that “elderly people with the highest levels of social activity -- doing things such as visiting friends, going to parties or attending church -- showed much lower levels of cognitive decline than those who were the least socially active.”

As one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers, MorningStar of Fountain Hills strongly believes in addressing our residents’ overall wellbeing through physical, intellectual and spiritual activities as well as to help them engage socially.  Our life enrichment programs present creative ways for residents to stay active and productive for both companionship and pure fun. Our programs tap into residents’ unique talents and experiences as well as allow them to find new avenues of interest.  In addition to our in-house activities, we take group trips to cultural destinations, parks, area malls, museums, and restaurants.

Please visit our website to see what is happening at our exceptional community.

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 one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

Sources: usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/05/04/socializing-may-keep-elderly-minds-sharp

livestrong.com/article/543831-the-importance-of-elderly-exercise-socialization-programs/

Take a Look at Beautiful MorningStar of Fountain Hills

Once you visit our website and have the chance to look at our Gallery photos, you will see why MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills is one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.  In fact, our community was designed from the ground up to accommodate our residents’ every need and is beautifully decorated throughout to provide an atmosphere of comfort, relaxation and serenity.

As our pictures show, from the moment you walk through the door you will feel like you have walked into a gracious home.  From beautifully-appointed common areas that provide a comfortable, relaxing place to sit and enjoy a visit with friends, an atrium with a water feature, bistro, a full salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures and much more.  Other Gallery photos features onsite amenities such as our chapel/theatre, outdoor areas, and fitness center.

However, while we offer many amenities and beautiful surroundings, we are most proud of our staff. The MorningStar team consists of a group of people who have perfected the art of anticipating the needs of our residents and going the extra mile to serve them.   Filled with compassion and care, each of our staff members has a smile for the residents and is as quick to listen to a story as they are to lend a helping hand when needed.

MorningStar of Fountain Hills offers 63 private assisted living suites on two levels with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans as large as 870 sq. ft.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  We encourage you to visit our website and use our online form to schedule a tour of our very special community.

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 one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

A Company Founded on Creating a “True Home” for Seniors

Do you think all senior living communities are pretty much the same? If so, it may surprise you to learn that MorningStar of Happy Valley is committed to a distinct mission statement that guides the way we do business and how we deliver our care services. 

It reads as follows: 

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 

MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, who after fifteen years of working in the industry was determined to start his own brand of senior living. It would be one that was defined by human touch and lovingly meet the residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. MorningStar communities were thus created as true home for seniors – one in which the sense of family prevails and residents are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Most importantly communities are staffed by individuals who have a felt calling to serve and view seniors as heroes. 

Those values have served our company well for over the past 15 years, and we now fast forward to today where MorningStar of Happy Valley is currently under construction. Our warm and welcoming community has been designed from the ground up to be a place where residents are proud to call it “home.” The three-story building will have 61 assisted living suites in a variety of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans from 324 sq. ft. to as large as 928 sq. ft. In addition we will offer 27 secure suites dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for contact information. 

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

Research Shows Music May Help Calm Those with Alzheimer’s

The Mayo Clinic reports on research that suggests listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. They explain the reason may be that “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” Listening to music can help relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and reduce agitation. 

Music can bring back memories to those even in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Associations quotes neurologist Oliver Sacks, who says, “Music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory… it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.” When music is incorporated into the everyday activities of someone with dementia, it can help them to recall memories of that activity and improve cognitive ability over time. 

Research has shown that some of the last two abilities in Alzheimer’s patients are musical abilities and the appreciation of it, which is why it is such an effective way to try and reach the essence of the person. It has also been found to help those in the more advanced stages of the disease to express and share emotions with their caregivers through dancing or moving along with the rhythm. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America says, “When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.” 

MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s is one of the top assisted living facilities in the area offering dedicated memory care. As dementia care specialists, our training and experience has given us a deep understanding of the disease. Our holistic approach includes leveraging the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort. Please contact us to learn about the newest senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

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 unparalleled senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/music-and-alzheimers/faq-20058173
alzheimers.net/why-music-boosts-brain-activity-in-dementia-patients/
medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321677.php