Monday, December 29, 2025

MorningStar Offers Trusted Memory Care in Albuquerque


While a senior with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia may be fine staying at home during the early stages of the disease, there may come a time when they would benefit from a move to retirement communities offering dedicated memory care. This is when senior living communities like MorningStar of Albuquerque can be a support to families struggling with the decision of what is best for mom or dad.

In our distinct Reflections Neighborhood we are honored to elevate life for those living with a diagnosis of dementia. Our dedicated team is ready to shoulder some of the burden for residents and their families throughout this unexpected journey. MorningStar’s care comes from a position of respect for residents, and is filled with compassion, dignity and love.

We begin our relationship by getting to know the person’s history, interests, abilities and preferences, and use this information to create a daily care plan to address their needs. Our signature philosophy and approach to dementia care is described by the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky where our ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore. The entire MorningStar team completes Lavender Sky training and Reflections Coordinators complete advanced coursework from the National Council of Certified Dementia Specialists.

Along with support for residents’ families and personalized senior care plans we provide:
  • Aromatherapy and holistic modalities
  • Culinary excellence; BrainWise foods
  • Signature hydration program
  • Purposeful life skill opportunities
The Reflections Neighborhood has 21 suites and is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need. While a secure area, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding, and safe and inviting common areas, both inside and out. Having a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia is difficult, and we want you to know we are here to help. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care or assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

 


Friday, December 26, 2025

Why Should I Want Personalized Care in Assisted Living?


Senior care should never always take a personalized approach. This is why modern senior living communities like MorningStar take pride in providing the best personalized care for seniors by creating personalized care plans. Keep reading to see what benefits personalized assisted living can bring to you or a loved one in retirement.

Experience Specialized Support

Personalized senior living is tailored to the needs of each individual. Many factors are taken into account before developing the perfect care plan. At MorningStar, we like to get to know the individual and their family as we all work together to create a uniquely individualized routine and management structure. Personalized care plans take personality, interests, health concerns, medical history, hobbies, social preferences, mental health and more into consideration. This helps us to get a full picture over the needs and wants of each senior so that we can meet them where they are at and provide the level of care that will benefit them most.

Regular Evaluation

Personalized care plans are always flexible. Needs change over time. With regular check-ins and evaluation, it is easy to determine if a senior is experiencing any changes in social routines, daily habits, or health concerns. By catching these issues quickly, our care team can remedy the situation and keep your loved one social and active.

Families also have a say in the type of care their loved ones receive. We all want what is best for the people we care about, which is why we like to collaborate with families, medical providers, and residents when designing and evaluating care plans. This helps to ensure that residents are receiving the proper care they need, while maintaining their independence and autonomy.

Find Your Home at the Best Assisted Living in Nevada

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior apartments with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you.

MorningStar Sparks' unique mission statement, “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.

Staying Active With Limited Mobility


While growing older can bring a new appreciation of life, it can also bring a series of challenges including a decline in health that impacts a person’s mobility. This can be due to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity. Other causes are diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as profound vision or hearing loss that interferes with abilities and requires people to rethink some of their lifelong activities.

The good news is many of the things’ people enjoy doing can still be done – they just may need some modifications. During this phase of life, you may discover new activities you enjoy just as much as the things you had to let go. Most importantly, experts say do not define yourself by your limitations.

Rather, they remind seniors that staying active and engaged has many benefits including boosting physical and mental health; and provides people with a sense of purpose and meaning to their lives. It has also been shown to improve memory and slow cognitive decline. Studies find seniors who stay socially active can even lower blood pressure, elevate mood and reduce anxiety and stress.

Some activities enjoyed by seniors with limited mobility include things like gardening in raised-beds, chair yoga, Tai-chi, water aerobics and low-impact resistance training. Creative pursuits such as painting or drawing, playing a musical instrument and learning a new cuisine; as well as games such as trivia or bridge bring meaning and joy to someone regardless of their physical limitations.

Senior living communities are great places to help seniors find purpose and companionship, along with the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed. For assisted living in Albuquerque, NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Albuquerque. Our 48 assisted living suites are well-designed to maximize space, and residents enjoy a whole host of resort-style amenities, senior care services, wellness programs and activities.

In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides care for those with memory impairment with compassionate, personalized support and services. Contact us for more information and to schedule a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on retirement communities.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Learn More About Dementia


Many of us, especially seniors, have heard or known someone with Alzheimer’s disease and have an idea of the devastation it causes. While there are other types of diseases categorized as dementia, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. You should know dementia is not actually a specific disease but refers to a decline in a person’s mental ability to such a degree it interferes with their daily life.

It is also important to understand dementia is not a normal condition of aging but rather caused by damage to brain cells that affect a person’s memory, reasoning and other cognitive skills including an ability to communicate. There are several types of clinical dementia including: Alzheimer’s disease; vascular dementia; dementia with Lewy Body; and frontotemporal dementia. Mixed dementia is the term used when a person has both Alzheimer’s and another form of dementia, which is causing their mental decline.

The Alzheimer’s Association says the “most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.” As the disease progresses, the person is robbed of many other abilities such as speaking, swallowing and walking.

To help get the proper diagnosis and rule out other causes that may be treatable such as side effects from a medication, it is important to see your doctor. If warranted, they may have you see a specialist that can do further testing.

At MorningStar, our goal is to provide exceptional assisted living in Albuquerque, which includes care in our Reflections Neighborhood for residents with memory loss diseases. Our holistic approach is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love and compassion. Contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Albuquerque, retirement homes.

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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior apartments Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Finding Joy in Assisted Living this Season


Socialization is a foundational part of retirement. With weather changes in the winter months, this can impact a senior's feelings about being active within their community. Assisted living can help seniors feel more excited about exploring their community, making new friends, and participating in holiday joy this season.

Senior Living Communities Build Connection Over the Holidays

The best communities encourage social events and experiences wherever and whenever possible. The holidays are a great time to do this. With excitement in the air, the community loves to get everyone involved in social events, parties, crafts, and more. Seniors should feel supported in forming new friendships and engaging with social activities within their community. This is why MorningStar Senior Living has many shared spaces and scheduled group activities like fitness classes, movie nights, craft time, book clubs, and music therapy, always offered within the community. These are just some of the examples of amenities and opportunities that seniors can explore regularly that keep them active, engaged, and fulfilled.

MorningStar Senior Living has a whole team dedicated to creating unique events and coordinating celebrations. There are many unique gatherings, especially during the holidays, that everyone loves to attend!

Continue Exploring Your Hobbies in Assisted Living

Assisted living communities give seniors the space to explore their hobbies and passions while receiving the utmost care and attention. Like independent living communities, residents explore their community, socialize, and nurture their passions. Assisted living hosts an array of art, music, and cooking classes for seniors to develop their skills or begin a new journey. With the help of 24/7 care providers, seniors still live a full and active life while maintaining independence and curiosity.

Find Your Home at the Best Assisted Living in Nevada

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior apartments in Sparks, Nevada, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you.

MorningStar Sparks' unique mission statement, “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.

Monday, December 22, 2025

Foods That Are Best Avoided if You Have Arthritis


Studies show there are steps people can take to help control the inflammation associated with the pain, stiffness and other health complications of arthritis. Along with medications, experts say modifying our diet and avoiding certain foods known to increase inflammation can help.

Red meat is high on the list to avoid if you have arthritis. As it is higher in saturated fat than white meat or plant-based proteins, studies find red meat increases a person’s levels of inflammation and worsens joint swelling and arthritis symptoms. To get enough protein in your diet, substitute red meat with chicken, fish, legumes and things like nuts and seeds.

Full-fat dairy products may also increase inflammation and lead to worsening of arthritis symptoms. Experts say opt for skim milk or plant-based milk, and substitute full-fat yogurt with low, or no-fat yogurt or kefir. The probiotics in foods such as yogurt and kefir may help reduce inflammation according to some studies.

Processed foods are associated with obesity and insulin resistance, and may also increase arthritis symptoms. These include frozen meals, lunchmeat, baked goods, fast food, and packaged snacks, which typically contain refined grains, added sugar, high salt content, and fats to help them last on store shelves and maintain flavor. Keep in mind sugar is not only in candy, soda and desserts but can be added to many foods such as cereals, barbeque sauce, coffee drinks, sweet teas and fruit juices. In terms of sugar, the recommended daily amount is 9 teaspoons. Moreover, be aware of hidden sugars with words like sucrose and fructose.

Experts say if you drink alcohol to moderate your intake. Other foods to avoid or eat in moderation include refined carbohydrates found in white bread, white rice, pasta and cereals made with white flour. Rather eat food made from corn, whole wheat or brown rice flour. The Arthritis Foundation says, “While there’s no miracle diet for arthritis, many foods can help fight inflammation and improve joint pain and other symptoms. For starters, a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans, but low processed foods and saturated fat, is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity.”

MorningStar of Albuquerque provides seniors with a vibrant and carefree lifestyle to help live life to the fullest. Our community offers assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans equipped with kitchenettes, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, and emergency call systems. Residents enjoy gourmet dining, fitness center, theater, salon and fireside patio along with wellness programs and activities. For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood offers memory care designed to enhance quality of life for our most tender residents. Please contact us for more information about luxury retirement homes in Albuquerque, NM.

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 apartments Albuquerque has to offer.

How To Talk to Your Parents About Assisted Living


Many families feel uneasy about discussing alternative senior living options with their parents. Sometimes, our parents can surprise us and be more understanding than we suspect. It may just take some time for them to see your best interest at heart and to understand the benefits of an assisted living. Finding the best communities for seniors doesn’t have to be hard. Below, we outline the best approaches for how to talk to your parents about these options.

Understand Their Perspective

Assisted living Reno might be the best option for your parents and your family. However, your parents may not see it that way at first. Initial discussion around relocation can cause unwanted emotions, but approach them with a sense of curiosity. Lean in to understand why they feel uncertain. Change isn’t easy. Remain neutral and allow them to think about how great these options can improve their overall health and well-being for the better. You aren’t “leaving them,” you’re giving them an opportunity to be more independent and fulfilled in a safe environment.

Assisted Living Benefits

Take some time to research local senior living communities that offer senior care. Depending on the types of needs your parents require, certain communities may be better suited for their support. The best assisted living communities for seniors provide medication management, personalized care plans, and 24/7 available staff. Senior apartments provide attentive staff, nutritious meals, and an active community full of amenities to explore.

Find Your Home at the Best Assisted Living in Nevada

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada, takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you.

MorningStar Sparks' unique mission statement, “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.