Monday, December 31, 2018

Looking for Assisted Living? We Offer All the Services You Need!

If your mom or dad need more care than they are getting at home, you may have already started to search for an assisted living community. We want to introduce you to MorningStar of Santa Fe, which opens in the next couple of weeks and will offer area seniors incomparable assisted living and memory care. Moreover by offering 56 stylish assisted living suites in a variety of configurations, you are certain to find the perfect apartment. 

To ensure you receive the appropriate care to address your needs, our move-in process includes sitting down with the Wellness Director and your family to discuss your medical history and current health conditions as well as personal preferences and routines. From there we create an individualized care plan designed for your comfort and safety and approved by you and your family. If or when something does change with your health, your family can rest easy knowing we conduct periodic health care reviews in order to reevaluate your needs. 

Your monthly fee is based on several things including the level of care you will receive (we have five levels), which was established after your evaluation with our Wellness Director. Additionally as we offer a variety of apartments including studio, one-bedroom and two bedroom suites, your monthly rental fee is also determined on the square footage and the location and views of your suite. Other various auxiliary medical and non-medical services are priced a la carte. 

Every resident will have an around-the-clock Care Manager and access to a full-time licensed nurse. We also offer pharmacy services and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. Please see our website for the full list of our Care Services. We are pleased to make senior living in Santa Fe better than ever with the opening of our new gorgeous community. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Please give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center on the west side of town for more details on unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe.

Learn More About Alzheimer’s Disease

We know it is devastating to have your loved one receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. While it’s a lot to process, please take comfort in the fact that there are a lot of resources to help you understand the disease as well as high-quality care options.

One good resource for information and support is the Alzheimer’s Association website. Not only do they discuss the disease and publish results of the latest research, but they also link you to the numerous ways you can take action in the fight against Alzheimer’s. 

To get educated on the disease, you may want to read about the stages of Alzheimer’s so you know what to expect. The Alzheimer’s Association says the disease “typically progresses slowly in three general stages — mild (early-stage), moderate (middle-stage), and severe (late-stage).” However each person is different and so is the progression of the disease. 

In the early-stage of the disease, a person is typically still independent and engaged in normal life activities but is starting to have memory lapses including forgetting familiar words and the location of everyday objects. In addition, family members are starting to be aware there are problems.

The middle-stage of Alzheimer’s is generally the longest and can last for years. During this stage, a person requires much more care to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Anger, frustration and a greater depth of forgetfulness are indicative of this phase. In the late-stage, a person loses all sense of their environment and the ability to communicate, walk, sit and, eventually, swallow. Extensive round-the-clock care is required.

For families in our area, MorningStar at Arcadia is ready to help. Our Phoenix senior living community includes 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with memory impairment. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to care for those in the early-stage of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages. Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional Phoenix senior living community. 

Source: alz.org/alzheimers_disease_stages_of_alzheimers.asp

Thursday, December 27, 2018

Discover the Reno Area’s Finest Senior Living Community


If you are looking for the best senior living Reno - Sparks offers, MorningStar of Sparks is your answer.  Our community offers 128 suites for independent living as well as 80 assisted living suites in a range of configurations and floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 shared and one-bedroom suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

At MorningStar of Sparks residents are treated to a whole host of resort-style amenities and enjoy a loving, home-like atmosphere.  Each resident is treated to three daily meals that are served restaurant-style and prepared largely from scratch by our own Executive Chef.  In addition we have a monthly calendar that is loaded with wellness programs and activities as well as lots of special events and outings.  For assisted living residents, we offer a customized care plan that ensures your comfort and safety.   

A few examples of Morningstar of Sparks’ activities include our swimming and Sit & Be Fit classes as well as a fitness room, strolling paths, billiards table, and raised garden beds to make gardening easier along with other special activities. Our community is located in a quiet neighborhood on the edge of the city but still conveniently situated near shopping centers, banks, restaurants and medical facilities.

Please see our website to learn more about all of the senior living options available at MorningStar of Sparks.  While you are there, use our online forms to check on pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “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 the finest senior living Reno and the surrounding area offers.


Luxury Senior Living Santa Fe Style!

The MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community is looking good as we put on the finishing touches before we open to residents in early 2019. We are sure you will agree that from the moment you walk through the front door, you will be met with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

Our adobe-style residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out and include features such as a courtyard with majestic mountain views and a cozy kiva fireplace, an inviting dining room with an open kitchen and a fireside living room. Residents will also enjoy relaxing at our onsite bistro or using the fitness room. 

On our home page, we have a video up (compliments of our drone videographer) that shows how our beauty community is taking shape. In addition once you browse through our gorgeous interior and exterior pictures on our Gallery page, you will see why senior living communities are not all created equal. MorningStar of Santa Fe was built on the premise that senior living should accommodate the needs of the residents, while at the same time; offer a serene and loving environment.

As you can see from the pictures of our assisted living suites, each one has high-end finishes, handicap-accessible bathrooms, spacious closets, lighting, high ceilings, and large windows. Suites also include a kitchenette with fridge, 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system. Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

With 56 bright suites for assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe’s floor plans include spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations (some as large as 820 square feet). Our Reflections Neighborhood’s 29 memory care suites are also offered in a variety of floor plans and configurations. Please contact us to learn more about availability and pricing. We are proud to bring Santa Fe unsurpassed senior living

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Looking for “assisted living near me?” We are located on the west side of town at S Pacheco Street and Plaza Del Sur Drive and convenient to medical facilities, restaurants and stores.

Resources for Families on MorningStar’s Website

While MorningStar at Arcadia’s first priority is to our residents, we also recognize that helping our families accept the transition to senior living is important. This is why we have a website filled with useful information and resources regarding all aspects of our Phoenix senior living community

We encourage everyone to read the history of MorningStar and about our Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger’s mission to start a senior housing company defined by the human touch. He explains that he “wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” Guided by our Radiance program, you will also learn how we deliver service - with warmth, sincerity and depth.

Furthermore, we understand that senior living decisions are often precipitated by major changes, which is why we provide a guide that details various retirement options. One recommendation we offer is to clearly identify what you are trying to solve, and to think about not just next year, but rather the next 5 to 10 years. We encourage you to read our points to consider for help in determining if assisted living is the best solution for you, your parent or spouse. In addition you will find some of the troubling signs that could signal the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, however please keep in mind that only a neurologist can make a diagnosis. 

Once you have reached the decision to move to an assisted living or memory care community, we advise you to set up a tour. Typically the healthier spouse or child of the senior does the initial tour to rule out unsuitable options and narrow down the search. We recommend not trying to do more than two tours a day as you will get a lot of information to take in and process. Please contact MorningStar at Arcadia if we can be of any help, if you have questions or would like to set up a tour of our wonderful community. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional Phoenix senior living community.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

Set Up a Tour to See the Best Senior Living in Reno/Sparks

Looking for the best senior living Reno/Sparks has to offer? Take a look at MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks.

At MorningStar of Sparks, we are very proud of our senior living community and each one of our team feels honored to have the opportunity to serve seniors.  While our website has extensive information and lots of pictures of our gorgeous community, we still encourage interested families to set up a tour to see firsthand what we are all about. 

Right on our website’s home page, we have a link to help you request a tour.  Once you have filled out the form, one of our staff will get back to you and set up a day and time that is convenient. 

We ask that you allow at least 45 minutes for a tour as we are excited to show you around.  If you have certain priorities, we will gladly accommodate those interests.  Also we encourage you to schedule your tour around lunchtime so you can join us for a meal, just let us know when you fill out your tour request form.  If you do intend to join us for lunch, please allow at least 90 minutes so you can enjoy a leisurely meal.

Our community offers 128 suites for independent living and 80 suites for assisted living that are ready for you to move into.  All you need to do is to bring your furnishings and personal items, and if you wondered, we are pet friendly.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and has 32 secure suites.  For information regarding pricing and availability at our community, please use our online form to request an email or give us a call.  We look forward to meeting you and your family. 


The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “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 the finest senior living Reno and the surrounding area offers.

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Companion Living at MorningStar Makes Senior Living More Affordable


Searching for affordable Reno assisted living, independent living or memory care?  Look no further than MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, located east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs.

MorningStar of Sparks recognizes that for some, senior living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable.  One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.”  This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in independent living, assisted living or memory care.

Obviously it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them.  However we know that option is not always available so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests which provides a good basis for building a friendship.  With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. 

Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community.  The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident socialization with the broader community, and having someone around who knows the ropes is always helpful.  Also you can look out for one another’s interests and most likely be the first one to notice a change in the other’s health or abilities.  Also we all know, when a friend is present, everything else suddenly feels that much better.

We encourage you to visit MorningStar of Sparks’ website to learn more about companion living and our exceptional community. 

MorningStar of Sparks 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 amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of our Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care community.


It’s Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published a study from multiple flu seasons that proves getting a flu shot can decrease the risk of severe influenza in adults. As reported, a flu vaccine reduced the risk of hospitalization admission to a general ward bed by 37 percent and being admitted to an ICU with flu by 82 percent. Of the adults admitted to a hospital, those vaccinated were 59 percent less likely to have severe illnesses. The results also showed that vaccinated patients on average who were admitted to the ICU spent 4 days fewer in the hospital than those who were not vaccinated previously.

The CDC says that even though flu shots were available starting in early October, it is not too late to protect yourself for the rest of the flu season. In fact they recommend that “vaccination should continue to be offered throughout flu season, even into January or later.” Just keep in mind that the vaccine takes about two weeks for the antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body. The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older and states that flu viruses are most common in the fall and winter months.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide area seniors with compassionate assisted living and memory care within a true home setting. Our loving approach incorporates the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents and includes around-the-clock Care Managers who are ready to meet every expressed (and even unexpressed) need. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar Senior Living and the wide variety of amenities and services as well as support we offer to our residents and their families. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Please give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more details about the highest quality of memory care and assisted living in Santa Fe.

Sources:

cdc.gov/flu/spotlights/vaccine-reduces-risk-severe-illness.htm
cdc.gov/flu/about/season/flu-season-2018-2019.htm

Tips for Downsizing Before Moving into Senior Living

Once you decide to move into a senior living community like MorningStar at Arcadia, you may be faced with downsizing decades’ worth of personal items and a houseful of furnishings. It is no wonder it feels like an overwhelming task. 

Organizing experts have several tips to help you get started such as beginning with an inventory of your possessions. After that, create a list of the things you do not want to part with and another list of items you would like to give away to family and friends. 

Now measure the size of your new suite and create a floor plan that gives you a realistic idea of how your furnishings will fit in your new place. If the unit is a studio or a smaller, one bedroom, you do not want to be so crowded you cannot safely move around. It may even turn out that you need to buy some things like a smaller couch or coffee table. 

Your next step should be to evaluate the things you want to keep to determine if you will have the room. The process will require some give and take but keep in mind you do not want to bring a lot of useless clutter to your new home. Also remember at communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia, we do the cooking and serve the food restaurant-style. 

Any possessions that are left can be sold, donated or recycled and some charities will even come and pick up pieces of furniture and items you do not want. When you get into your new suite, use bins and shelving to help organize everything so you can easily get to it. 

Please visit MorningStar at Arcadia to learn more about our beautiful Phoenix senior living community. There you will find an online form to set up a tour or to inquiry about pricing and availability. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Phoenix senior living communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar of Albuquerque has a Busy Calendar

Are you asking yourself “Is there quality senior living near me?” If so, you will definitely want to take a look at MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Albuquerque. We offer seniors a choice of configurations in 48 private assisted living suites, and devote 21 suites in our Reflection Neighborhood to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

As a resident of our senior living community, you will have a wide selection of meaningful wellness programs as well as creative and social activities to participate in. Our programs include exercise options, morning worship, Catholic communion, current events, table games, flower arranging, art classes, movie night and much, much more. 

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), “being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself,” and that “even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging.” At MorningStar we could not agree more, which is why we offer our exercise class Let’s Get Moving nearly every day. 

Another popular activity with our residents is our card and table games. Each monthly calendar is filled with various games such as poker, Dominoes, and Bingo. Our wide scope of activities means that regardless of your interest, you are sure to find something of interest. Whether it is joining the baking club, learning to knit, wine tasting or having the opportunity to attend morning church services, MorningStar is a great place to call home. Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself all that we offer. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Albuquerque, “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 contact us to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Source: nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseforolderadults/healthbenefits/01.html

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Balance Exercises Can Help Prevent Falls

If you are a senior, having good balance can help to prevent falls and maintain your independence. Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 years and older, and the risk of falls increases proportionately with age. By age 80, over half of seniors fall annually. 

Some of the reason for this is a decline in seniors’ overall physical fitness as well as chronic diseases, certain medications, and surgeries. One example is diabetes, a common disease in the elderly that can lead to peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage and cause numbness in the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. Medications that lower blood pressure may cause faintness or dizziness, and hip replacements and knee surgeries can result in the elderly being unsteady on their feet. 

While many exercises help with balance including something as simple as walking, experts recommend that older adults incorporate exercises into their daily routine that are specifically designed to improve balance. Most balance exercises can be done at home without any special equipment and only take a few minutes to do. 

The National Institute on Aging offers several balance exercises on their website. One example is to put the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot. Your heel and toes should touch or almost touch. Focus on a spot ahead of you as this will help to keep you steady as you walk. Now take a step and put your heel just in front of the toes of your other foot. They suggest trying to do 20 steps. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe knows it is important for our residents to stay as active as possible, which is why our monthly calendar will include a whole hosts of exercises designed to help residents improve their flexibility, balance and muscle and joint strength. We also have other classes and activities designed to enhance residents’ mental, social and spiritual connections. Please visit our website or our onsite Information Center to learn more. 

Please check with your doctor before starting any new form of exercise. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. We invite you to give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more details on compassionate memory care and assisted living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: 
go4life.nia.nih.gov/exercise-type/balance

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

UTIs Can Present a Danger to the Elderly

The Senior Living website says that, “One of the many unseen, hard-to-detect dangers that senior citizens face today is urinary tract infections, more often known as UTIs.” They explain that while the infection is usually easy to treat, the symptoms of UTIs in the elderly can often mimic much more serious conditions including dementia. 

The reason why UTIs often are undiagnosed in the elderly is that many of them do not experience the common symptoms associated with the infections such as frequent urination, burning pain, cloudy urine and lower back pain. As seniors’ immune systems typically do not function at optimal levels, UTIs symptoms can manifest in a range of behaviors including confusion, disorientations, agitation, poor motor skills, dizziness, falling and even depression. They can even cause a sudden onset of urinary incontinence. 

Many of these symptoms may be attributed to more serious illnesses or old age; however, once the infection is finally diagnosed, the treatment is relatively straightforward. A simple urinalysis can confirm the infection and most cases will be cured by antibiotics in a few days to a few weeks depending on the severity of the infection and the health of the person. Doctors recommend drinking four to six 8-ounce glasses of water a day to flush the bacteria from the system and to add cranberry juice or cranberry tablets to your diet. 

The new MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community is designed to care for our residents’ every needs. Along with a whole host of resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities, we also provide residents with three wholesome, delicious meals each day with beverages as well as have an onsite 24-hour bistro. Please visit our website or drop by our Information Center. We expect to open sometime around Christmas. 

This blog is for informational purposes only, please see your healthcare provider 
if you have a medical problem.

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Located on the west side of town, we invite you to call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more information about unsurpassed assisted living and memory care in Santa Fe.

Source: seniorliving.org/healthcare/uti/

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Listen to the Debut Podcast of Our “Aging Gracefully” Radio Program

If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, we encourage you to visit our website to listen to a Podcast of the debut of MorningStar of Santa Fe’s radio program, Aging Gracefully. The program is hosted by MorningStar’s Executive Director, Bill Bouvier and Director of Community Relations, Leslie Castaneda, and is scheduled to air Saturdays at 1:00–2:00PM on KTRC AM/FM. 

On our first program, we discuss “Alzheimer’s Dos and Don’ts” with guest speaker, Dr. Jytte Lokvig. Dr. Lokvig is a nationally recognized Alzheimer's and dementia care specialist, and author of several books including Alzheimer's A to Z, A Quick Reference Guide. 

During the Podcast, Dr. Lokvig recommends ways to help your parent or spouse transition to memory care. One of her suggestions is to take the time to introduce the person to the community and help them feel comfortable in the new surroundings. Another tip is to take advantage of respite care if offered by the community as this can be a good way to get your parent into the home if they think it is only for a short time. As they get comfortable there, they should be more open to the idea of staying put. 

During the Podcast, Dr. Lokvig goes over the most common signs of Alzheimer’s such as repeating the same thing over and over again as well as getting lost in familiar places. In addition she says to listen to the person’s concerns about changes they may be noticing. She also cautions families to not ask a person with memory loss a direct question as it can cause more stress and confusion. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe invites you to give us a call to set up an appointment to tour one of our model suites or to drop by our Information Center, located on the city’s west side on S. Pacheco St. Our team is committed to providing assisted living and memory care that affirms the dignity and comfort of each resident, and from the moment you step through our doors, you will discover a community that feels like a true home.

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more details about the finest assisted living in Santa Fe, NM.

Monday, December 10, 2018

New Treatment Options for Neurological Diseases


Over the next fifteen years, the elderly population in the U.S. is expected to grow by 40 percent.  With that growth, experts expect the rate of neurological diseases such as dementia, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, and strokes to grow at an unprecedented rate.   In fact Alzheimer’s disease is expected to increase threefold and affect up to 16 million people. 

To meet these challenges, researchers such those at the Cleveland Clinic, a world leader in the treatment of neurological diseases, have approached the fight with a combination of cutting-edge technology, multidisciplinary teamwork, and clinical research.  For example, they are one of only a few centers in the world conducting the first-ever study of an immunotherapy that targets Parkinson’s disease.  Dr. Hubert Fernandez, directory of the Center for Neurological Restoration at Cleveland Clinic, says, “It’s a treatment that works by stimulating the body’s natural defenses to help break down the abnormal clumps of protein found in the brains of Parkinson patients.”

In terms of Alzheimer’s, research is focused on improved treatments for symptoms as well as ways to treat the disease itself.  Dr. Leverenz, a director of the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Cleveland, explains that medications include “an antibody that attacks amyloid deposits, the sticky, neuron-destroying protein plaques found in the brains of people with disease.” 

Other advances include a FDA approved stent retriever for stroke victims.  The device removes large clots from the blood vessels leading to the brain.  Also there has been promising results using surgically implanted electrodes in the cerebellum of stroke survivors who suffer from long-term paralysis.  Using a combination of the electrodes and therapy, patients have had restored movement.  

At MorningStar of Sparks, we proudly serve the needs of our residents by providing the finest independent living and assisted living Reno and the surrounding area has to offer.  Our community offers 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 suites in assisted living for those needing help with the activities of daily living.  In addition, 32 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “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 the finest independent and assisted living Reno/Sparks has to offer.



Source:washingtonpost.com/brand-studio/cleveland-clinic/keeping-your-mind/?noredirect=on

Looking for Gift Ideas for an Elderly Parent?

Now that the holiday season is almost here, many of us are having a hard time coming up with fresh gift ideas for elderly parents and other seniors in our lives. Not only do many older adults live in smaller, paired down apartments with not much room for a more “stuff,” but most likely do not need much. This is why the most appreciated gifts are often practical ones that improve their quality of life or are meaningful. 

Memory-making presents are usually a hit and the marketplace has lots of options to choose from. One example is a Memory Journal, which provides a series of questions to get people thinking about the things they would like to share about their life. Other books are designed to make it easy to put together a scrapbook full of memories.

If your loved one has a hard time getting to sleep at night, you may want to consider a sound machine. Most of them have timers that can be set for as little as 15 minutes or up to an hour. Another useful gift is a humidifier. Kathrin Nicolacakis, MD of the Cleveland Clinic say “dry air can wreak havoc on your nose and lungs and make existing conditions worse.” A humidifier helps to relieve a variety of respiratory symptoms such as sinus congestion, asthma and allergies, and nose bleeds. 

Something a hearing-impaired adult as well as everyone else around them may appreciate is a wireless headphone set designed to clarify dialogue from a TV. The device allows the TV to be set at mute or the volume at a level comfort for other listeners. 

Other practical gifts include things like a lighted magnifying glass, a big-button phone, or a “reacher” for someone with mobility or dexterity problems. Entertaining gifts include jigsaw puzzles, oversized playing cards, or adult coloring books and markers. 

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we consider the care, comfort and wellbeing of our residents to be of the utmost importance. Our compassionate caregivers are the type of people who consider seniors to be heroes and feel privileged to serve them. Our luxury senior living community is scheduled to open sometime around Christmas so be sure to check our website for details regard our “Grand Opening Celebration.” 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more details on exceptional assisted living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: health.clevelandclinic.org/how-you-can-tell-if-you-need-a-humidifier/
seniors.lovetoknow.com/Gift_Ideas_for_the_Elderly

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers Smartly Designed Floorplans

Looking for the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer? Conveniently located in the heart of the Valley of the Sun, MorningStar at Arcadia is convenient to banks, hospitals, shopping malls, and restaurants. In addition, the firm who designed our beautiful, contemporary décor, Thoma-Holec Design, swept the Senior Living Category at the National 2014 ASID Design for Excellence Awards, winning First Place for their work on our remarkable community.

Unlike many retirement communities, Arcadia was built as a senior living community and meticulously designed to accommodate every need of our assisted living and memory care residents. For assisted living, we offer 80 graciously appointed suites in configurations that range from spacious studio to one- and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). Our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases and has 30 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 are included in your monthly rent and every suite has its own heating and air conditioning system. Arcadia also offers weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. In case you were wondering, we are pet friendly. 

We encourage you to visit our website and take a look at the variety of floor plans as we feel sure you will find the perfect configuration for your needs. For example, we offer studio suites from 347 to 400 sq. ft. One-bedroom units range from 437 to 493 sq. ft. and two-bedrooms in assisted living go from 587 to 1280 sq. ft. Memory care two-bedrooms range from 587 to 839 sq. ft.

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 us “home.” 

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we represent the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to schedule a tour or to give us a call to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Sunday, December 9, 2018

Join Us at a United Way of Santa Fe Early Childhood Programs Fundraiser

MorningStar of Santa Fe is proud to be a sponsor of the United Way of Santa Fe’s “Coats & Cocktails” fundraiser for their Early Childhood Programs. The event will be held on Wednesday, December 12 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Casa Espana. Guest speaker will be Abby Bordner of the United Way. Appetizers and cocktails will be served as well as a raffle that offers multiple staycations from local hotels and resorts. 

The United Way is seeking cash donations along with children’s coats and other articles of clothing suitable for winter weather. They are requesting new clothing only and in sizes 0-7. If you would just like to make a donation, there is a convenient drop off bin at MorningStar of Santa Fe. 

Anyone interested in being a part of this great cause, please RSVP 505-919-7989 by December 10th. The United Way of Santa Fe County provides free, high-quality early learning programs for area families, including home visits, Pre-K, caregiver support and early literacy projects. We encourage you to take a look at their website to learn more about the wonderful programs they provide to the community, which increase opportunities for Santa Fe children and families to achieve their dreams and aspirations.

Please visit MorningStar of Santa Fe’s website for all the current news of our new community as we get closer and closer to our opening date. Also we will keep you posted on details regarding our Grand Opening, which is expected to be sometime around Christmas. Our new community will have 56 bright suites for assisted living and 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. 

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct 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 to create a true “home” for residents. Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to give us a call or stop by our onsite Information Center for more details on the finest assisted living in Santa Fe, NM.

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Schedule a Tour of MorningStar of Sparks

Searching for Reno assisted living, independent living or memory care?  Look no further than MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, located east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs.

The gallery pictures on our website do a very good job of showing off MorningStar of Sparks’ gorgeous senior living community, but to really get an ideal of what we are all about, we encourage you to schedule a tour.  Located on our home page is a link to “Schedule a Tour” that takes just a few minutes to fill out.  If you plan to tour a couple of senior living communities, you may want to read a few articles on the Internet regarding things to look for on your tour.  

An onsite tour is important for many reasons and gives you the chance to experience it with your own eyes, ears, and instincts.  Remember this may be the place where you or your loved one decide to make their new home.  A tour also allows you to evaluate the community for cleanliness and to get an idea of the daily routine of the residents.  Additionally you will get to meet the staff and talk to residents.

Some of the questions you will want to ask include information regarding staff members’ credentials and have they gone through background checks or received any special training.   Does the staff seem friendly and do residents appear to be well cared for and happy?  If you can, eat a meal at the community as it gives you an idea of the quality of food as well as time to visit with staff and residents. 

At MorningStar of Sparks, we recommend that you plan on spending at least 45 minutes with us during your tour.  You are welcome to join us for lunch (please let us know when you set up the tour) and if you do, please allow approximately 90 minutes so you can enjoy your meal.  We will tailor the visit to your priorities and let us know if you have any special concerns.  Once you complete our online form, we will get back to you ASAP to set up a convenient time for you.  


MorningStar of Sparks 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 amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of our Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care community.

Many Seniors Prefer a Community Lifestyle

Most seniors say that they actually prefer living in a senior community to that of living alone. In fact, there are many reasons why senior living communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia have become such a popular option among aging adults. One reason no doubt is that they specialize in providing seniors with a lifestyle designed around comfort, wellness, and community. 

As senior age many feel good about relinquishing tasks such as yardwork and home maintenance. Many no longer feel comfortable driving and may have given it up altogether. This may mean it is not as easy for many older folks to get out and about as in the past and makes grocery shopping and meal preparation more difficult. These problems are no longer an issue when you or a loved one moves into MorningStar’s assisted living. 

Older adults also report senior living communities make them feel safer and they no longer worry about home intrusions. They also get peace of mind knowing that 24/7 help is just a push of a button away with their emergency call system if the need arises. As A Place for Mom explains, “while many seniors living alone are fine, there are vast numbers of seniors living alone in unsafe or unhealthy situations who would benefit immensely from life in a senior community.”

Another big problem with seniors living alone is they often do not eat well. Again, at senior living communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia, our residents are served food that is both healthy and tasty. Not only that but as meals are served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room, mealtime is not only about food but allows us to share the companionship of breaking bread together. 

Furthermore, senior living provides ready-made companionship and helps to alleviate feelings of loneliness and boredom. At Arcadia, we offer a range of activities designed to keep seniors engaged physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Please visit our website to discover the finest senior living Phoenix offers. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia invites you to drop in or give us a call to learn more about the best senior living Phoenix has to offer.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/why-seniors-prefer-senior-living-communities/

Saturday, December 1, 2018

MorningStar of Sparks Takes Dining to the Next Level

MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks is dedicated to providing the finest senior living Reno NV and the surrounding area has to offer.  To that end, we proudly take 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 Executive Chef.  Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients of which come from high-quality producers.  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 of Sparks’ 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 MorningStar is a time for residents to relax and enjoy the company of fellow residents or family and friends. 

Nestled in a quaint neighborhood east of Reno, MorningStar of Sparks’ 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 senior living community, and while you are there, set up a tour to see for yourself why residents are proud to call us home. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “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 the finest senior living Reno NV area offers.


Friday, November 30, 2018

Daily Exercise Offers Long Term Health Benefits

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we recognize that daily exercise is essential to the wellbeing of our residents. Research backs up that claim as the National Institute of Health (NIA) explains that seniors who stay physically active and regularly exercise receive long-term health benefits. They state that, “it can even improve the health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities.”

Taking part in physical activities such as walking your dog, using the stairs, or gardening as well as regular formal exercises such as weight training, tai chi, or aerobics classes are both beneficial to seniors. Studies have found an increase in mental capacity and a slower mental decline in older adults who stay physically active as it can help to increase blood flow to all parts of the body including the brain. The NIA also states that exercise may delay or prevent diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer, and help to reduce death and hospitalization rates. 

In addition physical activities and exercises may help to improve healing in seniors, provide better balance and reduce falls, and enhance their overall quality of life. Furthermore, the research finds that it is never too late to start exercising to receive the benefits. 

Another thing to remember is that you do not need to have full mobility to start exercising as there are many exercises designed to overcome individual limitations. Activities should include modified stretching exercises to increase flexibility, cardiovascular exercises to raise the heart rate and increase endurance, and weight training to build muscle and bone mass and improve balance. 

A few examples of Morningstar at Arcadia’s activities include our group exercise classes as well as chair yoga, chair volleyball, a walking club, fitness room, and other special activities. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our Phoenix senior living community. In total we have 80 assisted living suites, and 30 secure suites for residents with dementia-related diseases. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional Phoenix senior living. 

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health
helpguide.org/articles/exercise-fitness/chair-exercises-and-limited-mobility-fitness.htm