Why Sunlight is Beneficial

One of the most frequent reasons for choosing to live in the greater Phoenix metro area cited by the residents of our senior living facility in Scottsdale is the copious amounts of sunshine. The residents of our assisted living facility at Fountain Hills enjoy on average more than 330 sunny days each year. The daily dose of sunlight allows our residents to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities that include golf, cycling, and hiking.

Sunlight delivers several benefits, but like anything in life, you have to take it in reasonable amounts.

Great Source of Vitamin D

Sunlight allows your body to produce vitamin D from the cholesterol that collects in your skin. With more than 330 sunny days a year at our senior living center in Scottsdale, Arizona, residents receive enough vitamin D-rich sunlight to support bone and muscle health, as well as control blood pressure. Vitamin D also plays an important role in regulating your immune system and maintaining the strong circulation of your blood vessels. Sunlight’s ability to generate vitamin D also helps the brain function at a high level, as well as keeps blood sugar at acceptable levels.

Destroys Bacteria

Sunlight is much more than an outdoor phenomenon. It also provides an important benefit indoors. Indoor environments are ideal places for bacteria-laden dust to collect. Some of the bacteria can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, which for older adults, can lead to serious respiratory consequences. Several studies have discovered that sunlight kills harmful bacteria that cling to indoor dust. One study found just six percent of dust bacteria survived while exposed to sunlight, compared to 12 percent of dust bacteria that survived in a darkroom.

Enhanced Sleep Quality

It seems counterintuitive to claim sunlight improves the quality of your sleep. After all, who sleeps soundly while the sun beams its rays over you? However, sun exposure helps maintain your body’s internal clock, which is otherwise known as your circadian rhythm. Our circadian rhythm responds to the light and dark cycles by helping you fall asleep at night when it is dark, as well as wake up in the morning at the first sign of sunlight. Many sleep experts recommend exposure to bright sunlight in the morning to increase your chances of falling asleep quickly later in the day after the sun sets.

Boosts Mood

One of the negatives of living in an area that receives insufficient sunlight is the development of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD represents a type of mild depression that typically develops during the fall and winter months when cloudy days prevent the sun from working its magic. With more than 330 sunny days per year at the Fountain Hills assisted living facility, SAD does not become an issue, as our residents do not experience SAD symptoms such as fatigue and lethargy. SAD also contributes to lower serotonin levels, which is a direct cause of depression.

Get Your Daily Dose of Sunlight

Living at our assisted living facility in Scottsdale ensures you receive enough sunlight to maintain robust mental and physical health. However, too much of a good thing can become a bad thing. To minimize the damage sunlight can do to the skin, wear sunscreen, spend plenty of time in the shade, and cover your skin if you plan to be outdoors for several hours.

Find out more about the sunny days spent at MorningStar of Fountain Hills by scheduling a tour of our senior living facility in Scottsdale, AZ.

HOW DO THERAPY DOGS HELP SENIORS?

You see them in several environments, from the local shopping mall to a nearby municipal park. They often wear a colored vest while walking next to their human companion. Some of them visit schools, daycare centers, and assisted living facilities to spread joy to everyone who encounters them. At the MorningStar of Fountain Hills memory care facility, we have become acquainted with the therapy dogs that are companions for some of our residents.

Therapy dogs come from a handful of breeds, such as golden retrievers, German shepherds, and labrador retrievers. They spend considerable time, which often runs two years, learning how to interact with humans. For residents at our senior living center in Scottsdale, Arizona, one question is asked more often than other questions.

How do therapy dogs help seniors?

More Active

With a dog to take care of each day, seniors who live a mostly sedentary lifestyle immediately transform into active older adults. Like all dogs, therapy dogs require walks, as well as playtime at a dog or municipal park. Getting off the couch and walking a therapy dog improves your physical health by working out the cardiovascular system. Seniors also become more active by playing games with their therapy dogs such as fetch and tug of war.

Less Lonely

Research studies indicate that around 40 percent of seniors experience regular bouts of loneliness. This is especially true for seniors who have lost a spouse. Seniors who experience loneliness are more likely to develop the symptoms that are associated with depression and anxiety. The results of a study released in 2016 demonstrate pets provide the emotional support seniors need to fend off bouts of loneliness. A visit from a therapy dog can wash those lonely blues away.

Lower Blood Pressure

According to one research study, sitting down and petting a dog for a few minutes can lower your blood pressure by as much as 10 percent. The body reduces stress because the brain releases oxytocin, prolactin, and serotonin. It also reduces the level of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. Seniors who live with high blood pressure are at a much greater risk of developing health ailments such as strokes, as well as heart and kidney disease. Lowering blood pressure is the most effective strategy for preventing the development of those diseases.

Helps Fend Off Dementia

At our assisted living facility, we emphasize the importance of our residents remaining mentally active to prevent developing the signs of dementia. Playing interactive card games and working solo on crossword puzzles represent two ways to stay mentally fit. Another way to keep your brain sharp is to interact with a therapy dog. The company of a loving dog can improve cognitive functioning, as well as help seniors stay balanced and well-coordinated.

Learn More About Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs have somewhat different roles than the roles covered by service dogs. Therapy dogs do more visits, such as visiting residents at our senior living center in Scottsdale, AZ. They are trained to provide emotional support for victims of violent crimes, as well as older adults who live alone. On the other hand, service dogs provide constant companionship by helping their human companions deal with disabilities like blindness and epilepsy.

You can find therapy dogs roaming the halls of our assisted living facility at Fountain Hills as part of our monthly activities calendar. Learn more about therapy dogs and how they help seniors by scheduling a tour of our senior living center in Scottsdale, AZ.

Aging Parents and Driving

From time to time, we hear news stories about elderly people causing serious car accidents due to negligence.  This typically reignites the on-going debate about “when is it time for a senior to stop driving?”  Also, it is important to keep in mind that seniors are more likely to be injured in an accident as well as more likely to die from their injuries.  

Obviously being told you should no longer drive is a very sensitive topic for an elderly person still driving.  To them, it represents more than just getting from one place to another but their independence and a way of life.  So before you take away your elderly parent’s driving privileges, you should check that their driving is up to today’s road conditions.  

The first thing you can do is to get in the car and take a ride with them.  Experts say some driving issues signal serious problems while others less so.  For instance if your loved one is confusing the gas pedal with the brake, this is serious and requires immediate action.  Other things to look for are problems with left-hand turns, changing lanes, or driving either too fast or too slow.  Once you are out of the car, check for signs of new scrapes and dents.  

Many older adults realize their driving abilities are not what they used to be and make the decision on their own to stop driving at night or on freeways.  They also will not drive on icy and snowy roads or in the rain.  Some even make other adjustments such as not making left hand turns or avoiding busy roads with lots of lanes and traffic.   

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Happy Valley, we are happy to offer residents scheduled transportation along with many other amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our transportation services ensure residents get to doctor appointments and other errands safely.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living in Happy Valley, Oregon and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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 for more information about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, Oregon.

The Emotional Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease on the Family

The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only affects the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next. 

Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. 

Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize when you need more support and ask for it.  

Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages.  

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar is unique from many other assisted living communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from memory impairment. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs, community meals and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted memory care in Happy Valley, Oregon.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.

5 MUST-HAVE SECURITY MEASURES AT AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Recent research data showed more than 810,000 Americans live in an assisted living facility. If you asked the more than 810,000 Americans who call a retirement community home and their loved ones what is the most important factor in choosing a facility, you would receive a wide variety of answers.

However, one answer is considered one of the most important, if not the most important factors. That factor is called security.

Let’s find out what are the five must-have security measures at a senior housing center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

Advanced Security Camera System

Taking a page out of the healthcare industry playbook, a growing number of assisted living facilities have invested in advanced security camera systems to deter criminals from committing crimes such as burglary. In addition to deterring criminals, the most advanced security camera systems with 100 percent property coverage represent an effective way to collect convincing physical evidence. Different types of cameras placed at a wide variety of entrances and exits can prevent the unfolding of undesirable events.

Video Analytics Software

Installing an advanced security camera system is made much more powerful when it is accompanied by the integration of video analytics software. This type of software has revolutionized the security camera industry by using machine learning and highly developed algorithms to analyze large amounts of raw data and video footage. Video analytics software dramatically speeds up the physical evidence collection process, as well as communicates with security staff in real time.

In-Room Resident Monitoring

As another helpful security measure pioneered by the healthcare industry, in-room resident monitoring serves three helpful purposes. First, it alerts our security staff when a memory care resident tries to wander through the memory care wing. Second, it is an effective tool to alert our security team to the presence of an intruder. Third, it ensures residents receive their medications at the right time and with the correct dosage. 

Infection Control

When you think of security for a senior housing center, you probably think about the measures taken to protect residents against harm. One form of harm that does not receive enough attention concerns the development of infections. At our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho, our caregivers implement a comprehensive infection control plan that targets residents at the highest risk of contracting an infection. Our program includes properly training each caregiver, as well as ensuring the regular washing of clothes and bedding.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Government code requires the installation of fire and carbon monoxide detectors. However, they must be in top-performing condition to protect residents against the ravages of fire and carbon monoxide. At our senior living center in Rio Rancho, conducting regular inspections of our fire and carbon monoxide detectors ensures each detector operates at 100 percent efficiency. Every room at our assisted living facility has one fire and one carbon monoxide detector.

Learn More About the Security Measures at MorningStar of Rio Rancho

We understand the importance that you place on the safety and security of a loved one who is about to transition to an assisted living facility in Rio Rancho, NM. By scheduling a tour of our assisted living facility, you can see firsthand every security measure put in place to protect our residents. You also learn more about the cybersecurity measures we have taken to protect sensitive resident data, such as the type of payment method. Cyberattacks have emerged as one of the most serious types of security breaches faced by senior living centers across the United States.

Connect with us today by submitting the short online form.

Assisted Living is for Seniors Who Require Help With Daily Activities

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home.  The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care.  Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.    

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities.  In some cases, people move into a community which offers assisted living knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.  

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone.  As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away.   Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.  

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary in size and number of bedrooms, all our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, lots of natural light, and kitchenettes with full-size apartment refrigerators.  In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required.  Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping and delicious meals they no longer need to cook.

MorningStar offers the kind of senior living Happy Valley area families have come to count on.  Along with assisted living, we provide memory care, respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us or 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 to learn more about the finest assisted living in Happy Valley, Oregon.

5 EXERCISES FOR SENIORS

Exercise is one of the key components of a game plan to live a healthy lifestyle, but it is even more important for seniors who experience a rapid health decline as they enter their retirement years. As we age, our health requirements constantly change, as do the type of exercises that help us stay healthy. Healthcare specialists emphasize the importance of exercise for seniors because of several reasons.

Exercise represents an effective strategy to help maintain healthy bones, as well as enhance blood circulation. It also helps improve balance and coordination, as well as generates much more energy. Seniors who follow a regular exercise routine tend to be more independent because a healthier body is more willing to complete daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning. Several studies have shown exercise helps prevent and mitigate the symptoms of many diseases. Perhaps most importantly, exercise improves the functioning of the brain.

At the MorningStar of Rio Rancho senior housing center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, we encourage residents to stay fit by participating in five popular exercises for seniors.

Resistance Band Workouts

You can keep your muscles healthy without having to lift weights. As strips of rubber that stretch, these bands add resistance to your workouts without placing too much stress on the body. Resistance band exercises are perfect for strengthening the core of your body, which helps enhance balance, posture, and mobility.

Water Aerobics

Water aerobics has emerged as one of the most popular exercises for seniors because it does not involve cycling or jogging, but it delivers the same heart-healthy benefits. This activity is ideal for seniors suffering from arthritis or other types of joint pain. Water aerobic exercises also enhance your strength and flexibility. At our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho, NM, we offer a large swimming pool where residents participate in water aerobics exercises.

Pilates

As a low-impact exercise, Pilates is the perfect exercise for seniors. Structured breathing, along with alignment, concentration, and building core strength are the benefits of participating in this exercise for seniors. Pilates typically involves the use of mats, balls, and other inflated accessories to absorb strong impacts. Movements like step-ups, side circles, and food slides help improve balance and coordination.

Walking

There is not an exercise for seniors that is less stressful on the body than walking. It also is one of the most accessible types of exercises for seniors because it does not involve the purchase of expensive equipment and you can complete the exercise just about anywhere. Walking 10,000 steps a day can lower the risk of developing heart disease, as well as prevent the development of diabetes and colon cancer.

Chair Yoga

Yoga can be intimidating for seniors because of the different contorted body positions. However, you can participate in yoga classes by sitting in a chair when completing a wide variety of movements. Chair yoga also places less stress on the bones, joints, and muscles than its more typical standing counterpart. Seniors who participate in chair yoga report improved mental health and better sleep quality.

At our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho, we offer residents the recreational amenities they need to maintain vibrant mental and physical health. With three lifestyle options, a senior loved one can transition into a different living arrangement without having to move to another property. Learn more about how MorningStar  of Rio Rancho promotes the health of every resident through exercise.