A Choice of Stylish Suites Designed to Meet Your Every Need

 The MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community has 61 assisted living suites and 27 memory care suites in a variety of configurations including studio and one-and two-bedroom floorplans as large as 928 sq. ft.  Boasting a gorgeous interior that was designed by the award-winning senior living interior design company, Thoma-Holec Design, our lovely home exudes welcoming, comfort throughout our expansive common areas.  

However our stylish designs do not stop at the door of our private suites.  Each one offers a range of features including lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall- carpeting and mini blinds as well as kitchenettes with full-size apartment refrigerators.   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.  

On our website’s home page take the link to our Suite Features & Floor Plans for a printable file of floor plans that showcase several different configurations.  From there we suggest you take a look at our Gallery page to view pictures of our suites as well as some of our common areas, which highlight many of our unique architectural features.     

Situated on 2-acres, our beautiful 3-story community is conveniently located in a southeastern suburb of Portland.   In addition to a whole range of care services and amenities, we are run by a team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve.  Moreover we want you to know that we continue to track the pandemic’s real-time status as closely as possible, and adhere to the changing guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and our State’s health and safety framework to ensure the health of all those beneath our roof.  Please visit our website for contact information.  We are happy to answer any question and would love to talk to you about availability and pricing.      

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 one of the top assisted living & memory care communities in Happy Valley.

Need More Info Regarding Our Assisted Living?

 If you are looking for the best senior housing Rio Rancho offers, we invite you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho.  Newly opened early last year, we have quickly earned a reputation for providing trusted, compassionate assisted living and memory care. 

We know that if you are a family member searching for the right home for a parent, you most likely have quite a few questions.  This is why we put together a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provide some background on our company.  For instance our home page offers a great description of our home, brief backgrounds on our Management Team, and links to a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming comfort and beautiful design.        

Our home page also has a link to Community Amenities that describes many of the resort-style amenities we offer along with some of our care services.  In addition use the link to our Suite Features & Floor Plans that highlights the many comforts within our 51 private assisted living suites and 26 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment.  Our suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and no we do not expect you to leave your furry, four-footed family member behind as we are pet friendly.  

More questions are answered on our FAQ page including a brief description of how each resident’s level of care is determined.  We are sure you will be impressed with MorningStar of Rio Rancho’s modern interiors, which are the creation of the award-winning senior living design specialist, Thoma-Holec Design.  In addition expansive outdoor areas include courtyards decorated with artwork and trellises, strolling paths, raised gardening beds, and an outdoor kitchen, barbecue and fire pit.  Please visit our website for links to availability and pricing and our contact 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.  Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM.

Rethinking Our Attitude toward Alzheimer’s Disease

 

While a 2012 survey found that more Americans fear Alzheimer’s disease than they do cancer, many professionals are starting to rethink our attitude toward the disease. Bill Thomas, a geriatrician who is trying to reframe people’s view on aging, says for many the disease has been “swathed in shame” and stuck in what he call “the tragedy narrative.” Without dismissing the challenges of the disease, he and other experts say that it may be beneficial to both caregivers and patients to take an adaptive approach to dealing with Alzheimer’s that is more flexible, spontaneous, and expansive.

Mary Fridley, co-creator of a workshop called The Joy of Dementia (You’ve Got to Be Kidding!), stresses that in spite of the fact that we know dementia to be extremely painful, she feels too much time is spent on medicalizing the disease. Rather she truly believes “it is an opportunity, if people so choose, to be improvisational, to be silly, to play, to free ourselves from the constraints of truth and knowing and assumptions.”

One study out of Canada supports this premise by reporting that dementia patients’ symptoms declined and their psychologically outlook greatly improved after 12-weeks of visits from “elder clowns” who engage them with empathy, humor, and improvisation. Another recent study from Australia found that “dementia-care staff with positive attitudes and ‘person-centered’ strategies felt more competent about their ability to provide care.”

The MorningStar at Englefield Green is a specialized memory care home in Boise, Idaho that provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach is designed to comfort and heal as we find ways to help residents celebrate life and experience spontaneous moments of joy. If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help, please contact us.

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

Source: mercurynews.com/2019/02/21/a-joyful-existence-with-alzheimers-yes-joyful/

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Will

 A recent 2020 survey from Caring.com reports that the number of American adults (just 32 percent) who have a will or other estate-planning documents has dropped 25% since 2017.  Turns out many people say they do not know how to do it or worry it may be too expensive.  Others say they have not had time to do it, or think they do not have enough assets to make one necessary.  

A trust and estate attorney, Hugh Drake, a partner at Brown, Hay & Stephens in Springfield, Illinois and vice-chair of the Trust and Estate Division of the American Bar Association, says that while estate planning may not be fun, it does offer peace of mind.  He also explains, “It’s not the value of the estate that determines the need for a will;” but adds, “Knowing who will be in charge of resolving administrative issues and who will be the recipients of the assets will avoid a lot of anxiety, consternation and conflict among family members."

While experts say you do not need the services of an attorney, but if you draw one up yourself, you should have one review it.  In addition they offer tips to avoid making preventable mistakes.   The first is to make sure you sign it properly.  This involves two witnesses who were present when you signed it, to sign it, and neither should be a beneficiary.  Other pitfalls that may make your intentions unclear include not properly listing all your assets or not fully describing a particular asset or the name of the person to whom you want it to go to.  Additionally many DIY wills do not provide alternatives for the death of the executor or beneficiaries.  By obtaining the services of an experienced attorney, most of these problems can be avoided.  

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 regarding trusted senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM. 

Source: aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2020/6-common-mistakes-people-make-writing-a-will.html

Dealing with Grief in a Pandemic

 For far too many, the holidays and the months that follow will be spent grieving a loved one.  In normal times, the death of a loved one meant gathering family and friends together to support the bereaved and to honor the deceased; but now families have had to settle for much smaller funerals or put off funerals and memorial services altogether until sometime in the future.  Also being at home alone in a house that was once shared by someone who has passed away makes the grief that much stronger.  

Grief expert Robert Neimeyer, a psychologist and director of the Portland Institute for Loss and Transition in Portland, Oregon, explains that this can result in a “broken web of connection, which creates what we psychologists call unfinished business in bereavement.”  Moreover experts say COVID-19 has caused other types of grieving such as the loss of financial security, the loss of close contact with family and friends, and the loss of our sense of freedom to move about.   

The AARP reports that these types of grief are contributing to what psychologists call “complicated grief, one that's more difficult, intense, prolonged and disruptive than usual.”  This is why professionals stress the importance of people reaching out to make contact with those in the grieving process through phone or video calls.  If a family member seems to be struggling with accepting the death, it may help to have them set up a telehealth visit with a grief counselor or to join an online support group.  Other strategies that may help include anxiety-reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi, meditation or relaxation techniques.  

At the MorningStar of Happy Valley assisted living and memory care community, we provide the support services and physical environment to enable older adults to live as comfortably and as safely as possible.  In addition to 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, and wellness activities, we routinely do Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews.  Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful home.     

 

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 on one of the area’s most trusted senior living communities. 

Source: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/covid19-changes-grieving.html

As the Year Draws to an End, It is a Good Time to Express Our Gratitude

 As 2020 winds down, it is an excellent time to give thanks for our many blessings.  While it has been a tough year for us all, there are still things we can find to be thankful for including our families and friends.  In fact in troubling times, we are not as likely to take them for granted but rather recognize how truly important they are to us.  

Showing gratitude to others does not necessarily mean buying expensive gifts. One of the simplest things we can do is to express kindness through our words.  They do not have to be flowery and poetic but just speak to how good a person makes us feel and how much we cherished their friendship.  Heartfelt words can help a person feel appreciated, loved and valued and are “a healing balm to a troubled soul.”   

While the pandemic means we are not visiting others as we normally would have, it does not prevent us from reaching out by phone, email, snail mail, or video calls.  Especially if you know someone who is alone and away from their family, a phone call or greeting card is sure to cheer them up.  If you can, think about sending flowers or a small gift to express your gratitude for them being in your life and to let them know they are important to you.    

If you are still running your own errands, ask a friend who is sheltering in place if you can pick up something for them.  If you cook, make extra and drop a meal off at their home or do the same with a tray of homemade baked goods.   Whatever way you decide to express gratitude you will not only make someone feel good but you are sure to feel good yourself.   

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho senior living community, we bring to the area the most loving, luxurious senior housing Rio Rancho offers.  We invite you to visit our website for more information regarding availability and pricing on trusted assisted living and memory care.  We look forward to hearing from you.  

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 website to learn more about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.  

Source: psychcentral.com/blog/10-ways-to-express-gratitude/

Can You Afford Assisted Living?

 If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure your comfort and wellbeing.  We are certain MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ well-designed suites and welcoming common areas will impress you from the first but the thing we are most proud of is our dedicated, loving care team. 

We want you to know that we do our best to help make assisted living affordable to potential residents.  In fact, once you reach out to us, our knowledgeable team will be resourceful on your behalf in as many facets of senior life as possible including your ability to pay for the care you need.  

To start with, consider the fact that you most likely have numerous financial resources available to you beyond your retirement savings and investments.  Moreover, as we want to make sure you get advice from experts, we have partnered with Elderlife Financial Services, a company with over 20 years of experience helping thousands of families transition loved ones into senior living.  For a free financial consultation, we have their contact information on our website, or just ask and we will be happy to give it to you.   

Here are a few examples of resources that may be available to help you pay for assisted living.  Depending on the policy, long-term care insurance can help pay for a variety of services in senior communities, and can offer care options often not covered through federal subsidies of Medicare and Medicaid (see below section).  Another source of untapped funding could be from whole life and universal life insurance policies.  However, as there can be tax consequences, it may be in your best interest to consult Elderlife Financial Services for their advice.  Other sources of income could include the sale of your home, a reverse mortgage, or a bridge loan.  

MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are set in a warm, loving environment with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ offers.

Every Aspect of Our Community is Designed to Feel Like Home!

 The moment you step inside the MorningStar of Happy Valley’s gorgeous assisted living and memory care community you are sure to feel right at home.  In fact we have gotten used to hearing the surprise in visitors’ voices as they express their delight with our warm, welcoming atmosphere.  Moreover while you are sure to be impressed with our architectural design, we can guarantee that once you meet our staff, you will be most impressed with their kindness and compassion.   

From the top down, MorningStar of Happy Valley is run by a team of individuals who lead by example.  Starting with Executive Director, Tiana Jackson, who has been with Happy Valley since our opening just a little over a year ago, she has demonstrated true grit, determination and a loving spirit in helping our community get through the pandemic.  Ms. Jackson has worn many hats during the last year as she has stepped in where there was a need in a role as Nail Technician, Hairstylist and Dog Walker during these uncertain times. 

Tiana cites her former colleague Dee as the person who has most influenced her during her long career in senior care.  She explains that Dee’s passion, respect, model of servant-leadership has not only motivated her but shaped her. She adds that she has also met “many spectacular seniors who have taught me many life lessons through their stories.”

Tsering Yandon, who serves as our Wellness Director, explains that she cared for her Popo (“lovely grandfather”) who suffered from dementia for five years.  She states that as tough as that was, it brought her tremendous joy.  Tsering adds, “To have been able to serve him until the end of his life is something I cherish. And it contributes to my call to serve other seniors as well.”   

Director of Community Relations, Shannon Calles explains that seniors have taught her by example with their 50-, 60-, 75-year marriages, that she needs to work at being in the ‘No Matter What’ club with her husband. Shannon says, “The storm always passes and there I want us to be, together in the end. That’s the story I want in my book.” 

Our beautiful community offers 61 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 865 square feet). In our Reflections Neighborhood, we offer 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving home.  

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 Happy Valley, OR.

Seniors May be More at Risk for Poor Nutrition

 The National Council on Aging (NCOA) cautions that elderly adults with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease among others, are more at risk for poor nutrition.  Bad eating habits, loss of appetite, lack of access to healthy foods due to an inability to get out and shop, or a shortage of money, only add to the problem. 

The NCOA also wants seniors to know that poor nutrition not only makes it harder to manage chronic diseases but may actually make you more vulnerable to coming down with them.  Another problem is it can weaken your immune system leaving you susceptible to the flu, colds and other viruses.  Moreover, poor nutrition can hamper one’s ability to recover from surgical procedures, heal wounds, and increases the risk for infection or falls.     

Also, as many elderly people have a decrease in appetite and consume much smaller portions each day, the food they do eat needs to be nutrient-dense.  This is one reason experts recommend the elderly avoid foods high in sugar, salt and trans fats as well as processed foods, which often are short on nutrients and much needed vitamins and minerals.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, an assisted living and memory care community, we know that good nutrition is important to the health of seniors.  This is why we offer our residents delicious daily meals that are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  Our range of nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet.  Our Executive Chef even incorporates “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens to enhance our food service. We encourage you to visit our website for contact information and pricing and availability.  

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. 

Source: ncoa.org/healthy-aging/chronic-disease/nutrition-chronic-conditions/

Learn More About Diabetes

 The American Diabetes Association, along with other organizations helps to raise awareness of a serious disease that affects millions of Americans.  November is the month that has been chosen to sound the alarm for the millions of Americans who are at risk of getting diabetes.  Medical professionals recognize it is important for people to be educated about the disease and to be aware of the risks.  In addition, World Diabetes Day, which was first created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Foundation and the World Health Organization, is observed each year on November 14.

Experts say that knowing the symptoms of type 1 diabetes can be life-saving and lead to getting the care you need.  For individuals with risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes, having an awareness of the disease, may help to prevent or delay the progression. 

While sometimes known as juvenile diabetes, type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition without a cure that occurs when a person’s pancreas produces little or no insulin.  The disease usually appears during childhood or in adolescence but sometimes adults get it.  Treatment for the disease includes insulin as well as diet and lifestyle changes. 

Type 2 diabetes used to mainly affect adults but in the last several years more children are afflicted with the disease due to the rise in childhood obesity according to the Mayo Clinic.  They explain that type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes sugar (glucose) — an important source of fuel for the body.  Moreover, while there is also no cure for the disease, the Mayo Clinic recommends people alter their lifestyle by losing weight, exercising and eating well in order to better manage the disease. 

Symptoms for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have many similarities including the need to urinate frequently along with feeling very thirsty and drinking a lot, very hungry, and fatigued.  The person may additionally complain of blurry vision or have slow-healing sores.  Doctors say if you or a loved one has experienced any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider.  

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 contact us for more information about one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills, AZ offers.