Wednesday, August 24, 2022

These Dementia Experts Offer Trusted Memory Care in Boise


Under a “Lavender Sky,” this community differs from other senior living communities in that their purpose was built to encourage and support a resident’s right to choice and independence to the fullest extent possible while not discounting safety or health. At MorningStar at Englefield Green, MorningStar feels it is their calling and privilege to serve the most tender memory care seniors in Boise. They provide the type of care that affirms seniors’ dignity and value.

As dementia care experts, our unique philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” in which we compassionately choose to thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore the world of dementia. Through our philosophy of a “Lavender Sky,” our dementia care in Boise, ID leverages holistic healthcare and the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals. We have proudly created a community that feels like a true home.

Once a family makes the decision to entrust Englefield Green with the care of their loved one, we meet with the family and potential resident to learn as much as we can about the individual’s background, talents, interests and personal preferences. To fully know our residents is to love them as if they are our own family. All residents participate in a range of purposeful and meaningful activities and engage in special events and outings.

The diagnosis of dementia is devastating and hard to navigate on your own. MorningStar at Englefield Green is here to walk with you through this difficult journey and help you make the best choices possible for your loved one. If you need loving, professional memory care in Boise, Idaho, trust the experts at MorningStar at Englefield Green.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green in Boise, Idaho and how we became a trusted provider of memory care families rely on. MorningStar at Englefield Green cares for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.
 
The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho

Monday, August 22, 2022

Important Cell Phone Safety Tips for Seniors with Dementia


Being able to communicate with your loved one in memory care is important in the event anything happens or if they need your help while you’re away. Even in the most apt and trusted senior care facilities, such as MorningStar at Englefield Green, knowing your loved one has an extra way to contact you in case of an emergency gives you a much-needed feeling of relief. However, there are also problems that may arise when individuals with dementia have access to fully functioning cell phones.

Cellphones, such as smartphones, have the ability to create communication with individuals across many platforms and apps. While these services are beneficial to most people, the ability to explore the internet in this capacity may pose some threats to a senior dealing with memory loss. If left to full access to a smartphone, an individual with dementia may unknowingly contact strangers or give away private information that could potentially harm them or their family. The unlimited amount of interface on a smartphone may also frustrate and confuse a senior with memory loss, causing an emotional outburst.

Senior care facilities, such as MorningStar’s memory care in Boise, Idaho, advocates for independence and exploration of their dementia care residents. However, senior safety is still of utmost concern. In this way, limiting a cell phone’s ability may be the most beneficial to your loved one living with memory loss. Altering a cell phone to only be able to call and text a few individuals keeps your loved one safe and allows for that added form of communication between a select few.

The simpler a cell phone is, the easier your loved one will be able to navigate it without many issues. A phone with a large screen and clear, plastic buttons helps absolve frustration many seniors may feel about not knowing how to work a cell phone. Uploading games or streaming services onto your senior’s phone can be an easy form of entertainment and comfort for them, just make sure the software is user friendly.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar Memory Care at Englefield Green in Boise, Idaho and how we became a trusted provider of memory care families rely on. MorningStar at Englefield Green cares for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Idaho.
 
The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Englefield Green, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Boise, Idaho

Friday, August 19, 2022

Foods From the Bean Family are Linked to Longevity


When we look at cultures with a reputation for longevity, leading nutritionists and food scientists say there is one food group that stands out. “Blue zones,” areas known for having many of their inhabitants live to an advanced age of hundred years or more, include in their diet, five of the ten most recommended foods. All are from the bean family and include lentils, soybeans, peanuts (a legume in the same family as peas and lentils), chickpeas and black beans.

People living on the Japanese island of Okinawa might enjoy a dinner of stir-fried green beans, soybeans or mung sprouts. Another meal in Nicoya, Costa Rico typically includes black beans. Known for a high level of anthocyanins, a pigment that gives red, purple, and blue plants their rich coloring, beans help fight free radicals and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. In fact, anthocyanins offer 10 times the antioxidants of an equivalent serving of oranges.

Nutritionists say beans also boost the immune system by supplying the fiber our microbiomes need. They suggest the local diet of people in blue zones help them avoid many of the same health risks Americans suffer from such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and cancers.

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we offer residents a lifestyle in which to comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, our all-day dining service includes meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients.

Convenient to medical facilities, shopping and other services, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 61 suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to specialized dementia care for residents with memory impairment. Contact us or visit our website for more information and to request a tour.

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 residents exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Source: cnbc.com/2020/09/15/adding-this-simple-food-to-your-diet-may-help-you-live-to-100-says-longevity-health-researcher.html

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Preventing Dangerous Medical Errors

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude. 

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ offices or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  


Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume. 


Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask. 


Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.  


For exceptional senior housing, Rio Rancho seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar. Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or see our website for more information about MorningStar of Rio Rancho.


MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Rio Rancho has to offer.

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1


Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

Rather than diminish a senior’s life, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways.  Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for.  

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living homes is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat.  Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion.  Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more.  


Moreover, as the CDC reports that each year about 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.   


Along with assisted living, Happy Valley area families trust MorningStar to compassionately care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with kindness and thoughtfulness.


Our beautiful community is in a southeastern suburb of Portland, Oregon 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. Please visit our website for more information. 


MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us or visit our website for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.



Monday, August 15, 2022

Life After a Loved One’s Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease



When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all.  Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold.  Most are left with questions about what to expect next.  

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.”  They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better.  Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors.  Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned.  You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.   

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day.  A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so.  Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away.  

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings.  They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses.  Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our goal is to provide the best senior living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our memory care residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve and spend each day in an atmosphere that celebrates and elevates their lives. Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional assisted living and senior living communities


MorningStar of Happy Valley proudly provides 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 create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley.


Trusted Memory Care at MorningStar of Rio Rancho



Are you the adult child or spouse of someone who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Rio Rancho we understand the anguish and heartache that families go through seeing their beloved mom, dad, or spouse change before their eyes. 

If the diagnosis is recent, you are most likely wrestling with lots of questions including what will the future bring and who will be there to provide the level of care the person will probably need.  We hear you and want you to know our experienced team is here to help with holistic memory care that focuses on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual regardless of the extent of the memory loss. 


MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings.


Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 


As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as solutions to challenging behaviors.  For trusted senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM, contact us or visit our website for more information.


MorningStar of Rio Rancho proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique 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 create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM.