Learn More About Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition of the joints that affects over 30 million Americans, and while it can occur at any age, the risk of developing OA increases with age. OA is caused by damage or breakdown of joint cartilage between bones. It is believed there is a hereditary component that predisposes some people to OA, and that being overweight can contribute to the severity and early onset of the disease. 

Cartilage is the firm, rubbery tissue that lines the joints and allows them to move smoothly as well as cushion the bones. Stress placed on joints over the years wears away the cartilage causing stiffness, swelling, and pain. OA most commonly affects hips, knees, hands, feet, and spine but can affect any joint. Sports injuries and fractures can cause OA later on in life and certain jobs that are strenuous on joints (kneeling or standing for long periods of time) can put you at added risk. 

While there is no cure for OA, it is treated with pain management, strengthening the muscles surrounding the joint, and reducing the weight on the joints. An occupational therapist can teach you ways to move to lessen the pain without adding more stress to the joint. A physical therapist will show you the exercises to do to strengthen your muscles and work to improve things like walking and posture. Some OA sufferers have turned to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, meditation, relaxation, and massage techniques. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the best assisted living in Phoenix AZ.

Sources: cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm
webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/osteoarthritis-basics#1

Is Age Decline a Result of Simply Getting Older?

While most elderly adults are not going to participate in a triathlon, they do want to be as physically fit as possible. In several interesting studies conducted by Joseph Baker, and reported on by the Washington Post, he looks at the question of whether “age decline is a result of simply getting older or being sedentary.” Baker, a professor at the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University in Toronto, and his team of researchers wanted to know why some 70-year-olds can still compete in vigorous athletic competitions while others get winded walking up a flight of stairs. 

Baker based the premise of his research on a pivotal 1996 Stanford University study that still serves as the biomarker for the aging process more than twenty years later. The Stanford study analyzed age-related decline by looking at individuals’ “number of muscle cells, DNA repair, fingernail growth and physical activity.” Researchers found that participants had a 0.5 percent decline per year in these factors. 

One of the studies that Baker and his team of Canadian researchers did in 2010 is titled “Do or Decline.” It was published by the Journal of Health Psychology and involved more than 12,000 adults. Participants were asked a series of questions on issues ranging from their health condition, cognitive capacity and social engagement to their physical activity. The study found that “inactivity was a much stronger predictor of functional limitations than either chronic disease or being socially unengaged with life.”

Studies such as these suggest that even moderate levels of physical activity can improve a person’s physiological, psychological and social conditions. Baker explains that research like his may help to debunk the widely held notion that all physical decline experienced by an older adult is a natural part of aging. Furthermore, he asserts that, “Self-efficacy and your belief in your ability to achieve an outcome is very important for predicting performance outcomes and a person’s behavior.” 

At MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia, our residents have plenty of opportunities to stay active both physically and mentally. We provide a full monthly calendar of wellness activities along with special outings and events. Our community offers 80 suites for assisted living and 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the best assisted living in Phoenix AZ.

Carefree Retirement Years at MorningStar of Sparks

If you would like the freedom to enjoy your retirement years without many worries, we invite you to take a look at MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks.  We are proud to offer 128 beautiful suites for independent living. For assisted living, we offer 65 stylish, private suites in a variety of configurations.  From one bedroom, one bath to two-bedroom, two baths, our suites are meticulously designed so all you need is to bring your furnishings and personal items.  Each unit offers high-end finishes and includes lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds.

For memory care residents, our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 suites that are devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our secure and loving neighborhood can provide the care your family member needs at the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages where the highest level of care is required.  MorningStar’s specially trained staff uses an array of multi-sensory activities including art, dance, music, aromatherapy, life skills, exercise and animals to heal and comfort.  

MorningStar of Sparks is located east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs. We are conveniently located to hospitals, banks, shopping malls, restaurants, and grocery stores.  Among the attractions nearby are Golden Eagle Park and Red Hawk Golf Course.  Lake Tahoe is about one-hour drive.

Furthermore, MorningStar of Sparks provides a whole host of wellness programs and activities to engage residents intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially.   If you take a look at our monthly calendar posted on our website, you will see a variety of daily activities that are inspirational and motivating as well as just plain fun.   Additionally our excellent food service is incomparable to other senior living communities.    If all this sounds like something you or a loved one would be interested in, we invite you schedule a visit to see our beautiful community in person.    

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 our exceptional offering for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Sparks that Feels Like Home

The MorningStar of Sparks senior living community consists of three neighborhoods including 128 bright suites for independent living, 80 assisted living suites, and 32 memory care suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Situated east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs, we offer seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. 

If you are a senior who requires a little help with your day-to-day personal care, our assisted living is expertly designed to provide the assistance you need in order to maintain your independence.  Once you decide to move into our beautiful community, you and your extended family will sit down with our Wellness Director to create an individualized care plan that meets with your approval and ensures your comfort and safety. 

Our assisted living offers five levels of care and the cost of your monthly fee is based on the types of services we will be providing.  Regardless of your level of care, all residents receive 24/7 Care Managers as well as the services of a licensed nurse, routine care plan reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.  MorningStar of Sparks’ care services include help with dressing, bathing, medication management, transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services and more. 

Furthermore, as an assisted living resident at MorningStar of Sparks, you are sure to enjoy our wellness programs and activities that are intended to enhance your life intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially.  Our programs provide numerous ways for residents to express their unique talents and to stay active and productive.  Also we would be remiss if we did not mention our delicious meals prepared by our own Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room.  

We are proud to have a care team who feels called to serve seniors and help us to create a true home for our residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s finest senior living community. 

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 our exceptional offering for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

For a Firsthand Look at MorningStar of Albuquerque - Take a Tour!

As there is not one standard or definition for assisted living, this means that each community has its own distinct “personality” as well as offers various levels of care and services.  In order to really experience each community, you need to see it firsthand. 

While we understand you do not have the time to tour lots of different communities, experts suggest you narrow down a location and focus on places within that area.  Now do your homework.  Research should include visiting each community’s website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends, family and medical professionals. Once you do narrow down the search, be prepared to ask the right questions to ensure the community will be able to meet you or your loved one’s needs.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Albuquerque, we understand that touring our community is a very important part of making the final decision on whether we are the right choice.  While we will tailor your tour to include your priorities, we do ask that you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit.  Also we would love to have you join us for lunch (just let us know when you schedule) and if you do, please plan to be here for 90 minutes to give you time for a leisurely meal.    

Visit our website to read more about our beautiful community and then fill out our “Schedule a Tour” form to see firsthand why residents are proud to call MorningStar of Albuquerque home.  Our team will get back to you ASAP to set up a convenient day and time.  We look forward to meeting you.

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 schedule a tour and see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care in Albuquerque.

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar of Sparks

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we recognize pets offer seniors great companionship with their limitless affection and unconditional love.  In fact multiple studies have found pets to be especially beneficial for the elderly and can even help to “reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase social interaction and physical activity.”  Pet ownership can combat feelings of loneliness and offer solace from the loss of a spouse or another loved one. 

In an article from AgingCare.com entitled, The Healing Power of Pets for Elderly People, several experts weigh-in on the various benefits of pet ownership for seniors including a New Jersey psychotherapist.  Dr. Jay P. Granat discusses some of the intangibles pets offer to the elderly such as the fact that “dogs—and other pets—live very much in the here and now.’  He explains that animals do not worry about tomorrow, which can be scary for the elderly and being around an animal with that sense of “now” can rub off on people.

Along with providing companionship to seniors, studies have found that depression is less likely for older adults who own a pet and patients with heart problems can do better when they are responsible for a pet.  Psychologist Penny B. Donnenfeld, who brings her golden retriever mix to her New York City office, relates how people with memory loss interact with her dog and access memories from long ago.  She explains “having a pet helps the senior focus on something other than physical problems and negative preoccupations about loss or aging."

We know it is a big decision for seniors to give up their family home and move into senior living.  Furthermore, it would be very painful to be forced to leave a beloved pet behind, which is why we are proud to be a pet friendly community.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Sparks.

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 our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Reno, NV.

Source:agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar of Santa Fe

It was not that long ago that seniors moving into an assisted living community had to leave behind an important companion, their pet.  Today however, more and more retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar of Santa Fe, allow residents to bring their pets with them. 

There has been a lot of research that validates the benefits of pets in seniors’ lives.  In fact, A Place for Mom website reports on a study that shows, “just 15 minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.”  They go on to say that interactions between pets and humans can “lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke.”

Another reason pets can be good for the elderly is that animals live in the here and now and do not think about tomorrow, which for some seniors, can be worrisome.  In addition animals offer unconditional love, emotional support and affection.  This is one reason why pet therapy programs are used in convalescent homes, hospitals, mental health centers and children centers.  Many people participating in such programs experience an improvement in appetite as well as “more social interaction and tactile and cognitive stimulation after interactions with pets.” 

There is even research that indicates pet therapy is beneficial for those suffering from dementia diseases such as Alzheimer’s.  The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication has proven to be soothing for patients.  

Please contact us to learn more about the MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe.  With beautifully appointed spaces and exceptional architecture, we are confident you will be impressed with our new 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.  Situated on the west side of town, we invite you to drop in to our Information Center or give us a call to learn more about the finest assisted living in Santa Fe.   

Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living   

agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

Special Events at MorningStar at Arcadia

At MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia, our residents and staff work hand-in-hand to create a loving, warm community.  Part of our family-like atmosphere comes from making memories and celebrating life’s special moments together.  Each month our calendar is filled with daily activities as well as an array of special events. 

This year MorningStar at Arcadia had a lovely Mother’s Day.  Our celebration tea was complete with personalized decorated hats, various tea pots and traditional high tea snacks, including cucumber sandwiches, macaroons and white cake. It was a wonderful celebration for our community mothers.

Then in June, to help raise awareness for the memory-impaired, our community had an Uplifting Day to fundraise for the Alzheimer’s Association as part of their “Longest Day” event. Residents and team members invited their friends and family to their very own carnival, which included a raffle table, a putting green, face paintings, a duck pond, and a cake walk.  We then finished up the day with live music and a Forever Family Celebration.

Another example of a special event recently was MorningStar at Arcadia’s 15^th anniversary celebration held in August. The late afternoon/early evening event was a fancy affair with cocktail attire encouraged.   A good time was had by all who enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, wine, a silent auction and live entrainment.

If carefree retirement years amid beautiful surroundings, resort-style amenities, and fun-filled and meaningful activities sound good, MorningStar at Arcadia is the place for you.  We encourage you to schedule a visit to our community to find out for yourself why our residents are proud to call it home. 

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the best assisted living in Phoenix AZ.

Learn More About Osteoporosis

While one in four women 65 years and older (one in two women over the age of 80) have osteoporosis, it is not a disease that only affects women.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one in ten men older than 80 also have some level of bone loss. 

 

So what is osteoporosis?  Experts state that the disease is the gradual weakening of the skeletal system and causes bones to become weak and brittle.  This results in an increased risk of fractures from falls or mild stresses as the bones thin (a decrease of bone mass and density) and become depleted of bone calcium and protein.

To diagnose the disease, patients are screened using a dual X-ray absorptiometry, also called a DXA or DEXA.  Doctors use the test to measure the bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine, hip or total body to help evaluate a person’s risk of fracture.  The noninvasive scan is painless and usually takes only 10 or 20 minutes.

While there are risk factors associated with a greater likelihood of developing osteoporosis, some people develop it without any of them.  Gender, family history, age, body size and ethnicity are risk factors you cannot change but there are other things you can change.   Bone loss can be caused by a lifetime diet that is low in calcium and vitamin D as well as the long-term use of several medications such as glucocorticoids. Lack of exercise, cigarette smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol can also lead to osteoporosis.

Many doctors would like to see more adults tested at a younger age so if there are any signs of the disease, it can be identified early and treatment and lifestyle changes made years before bones become brittle.  Right now bone mineral density screening is recommended for all postmenopausal women and for men age 50 years and older based on risk factors and on the advice of their health care provider.   

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

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 schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

Sources: agingcare.com/articles/an-overview-of-osteoporosis-133147.htm

webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20150813/1-in-4-senior-women-in-us-has-osteoporosis-cdc#1

Seniors Enjoy Comfort and Security at Assisted Living Communities

Assisted Living is a new paradigm in wellness and engagement, and is built on a European social model.  It is designed for seniors who do not require 24-hour nursing care but rather just need a little assistance with daily living.  An assisted living community provides a secure and comfortable environment that lets you or your loved one age in place.  Furthermore, it gives family members peace of mind knowing that their parent or relative is receiving the care they need. 

Many communities offer a range of amenities that include private suites, libraries, theater, fitness centers as well as creative and wellness programs.  Some of the services typically provided by assisted living communities are daily meals, medication management, help with bathing and dressing, and transportation.  With a home-like atmosphere, seniors have the opportunity for companionship and to develop new friendships and interests.

Assisted living can also provide a safer option for many seniors than living alone as help is much closer at hand.  According to the National Council on Aging, “One in four Americans aged 65+ falls each year.  Falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.” 

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe, we think seniors are a national treasure and they deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.  Our beautiful community offers a choice of 56 well-appointed, private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  Opening this fall, we invite you to contact us or stop by our Information Center for more information.

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 drop in to our Information Center or give us a call to learn more about the finest assisted living in Santa Fe.   

Source: ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/

Normal Forgetfulness or Serious Memory Loss?

Forgetfulness is a natural part of aging; however, it is important to recognize the difference between normal forgetfulness and serious memory loss.  As we grow older, we may experience problems with things like finding our keys or glasses, remembering names or certain words, and taking longer to learn new things.  In most cases this is just mild forgetfulness, and there are things we can do to help sharpen our memory.

Experts recommend that activities such as taking a class, playing cards and word games, or volunteering can all help to improve mental acuity.  Also it may be helpful to use memory tools such as calendars and to-do-lists, and to eat well, get plenty of rest and limit your alcohol intake.  Tricks like always putting away your day-to-day items in a designated place can be helpful.  As depression along with some medications and health conditions can adversely affect memory, it is important to consult with your doctor if problems continue or worsen. 

The Alzheimer’s Association advises that the type of memory loss that disrupts a person’s everyday life is not normal.  From their list of ten signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they state that one of the first sign of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering newly learned information. 

Further signs of serious memory problems involve difficulty with daily activities such as driving, shopping, and following conversations.  A person may start having trouble following directions; be confused about time, people, and places; and become lost in familiar places.  Other signs include changes in personal hygiene and attire as well as not eating well.

If you have questions regarding these and the other warning signs found on the Alzheimer’s Association website, they advise consulting your physician.  They state that, “early diagnosis provides the best opportunities for treatment, support and future planning.”

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the best assisted living in Phoenix AZ.

Source:www.alz.org/national/documents/checklist_10signs.pdf 

MorningStar of Sparks Provides Seniors with a Carefree Lifestyle

MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks provides seniors with a lifestyle of wellness, comfort and community.  By offering the finest independent and assisted living in the area, it allows our residents to enjoy carefree retirement years and gives them the time to pursue interests both new and old. 

Our first-class amenities start with delicious three daily meals largely prepared from scratch and served restaurant style in our charming dining room.  We also have our own bistro, a fitness room, a general store, and an in-house salon that offers hairstyling, manicures and pedicures.  If you are looking for a massage, we can accommodate you.  In addition, we have a chapel, library and a private dining room that is available for intimate dinners. 

Each day, we offer a whole host of wellness programs and activities that are designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate your brain and encourage connections.  If you enjoy being outside, we have a fireside patio, and our memory care residents have a secure courtyard where they too can safely experience the outdoors.  Along with scheduled transportation, we routinely take road trips to a variety of cultural destinations, shopping malls, restaurants, parks and more.  

We encourage you to visit our website for more details about our remarkable senior living community.  Our property has 128 independent living suites and 80 assisted living suites, in a choice of spacious one and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers 32 suites devoted to providing care for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.   

To ensure your utmost comfort and wellbeing, MorningStar of Sparks has a compassionate 24-hour care staff and a full-time licensed nurse.  If there is something you need, our team is right there ready to help.  If this all sounds good, please schedule 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 schedule a tour of our exceptional community.

Medication Safety Tips for Seniors

Often seniors take multiple medications daily that in some cases have been prescribed by a couple of different doctors for different conditions.  In addition they may also be taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications.  All of this can lead to problems with drug interactions and side effects that range from mild to severe including death.

In a report by the US News & World Report, it cites statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that suggest each year there are four visits to the ER per 1,000 adults attributed to adverse drug effects.  First published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, statistics find that almost 60 percent of Americans take at “least one prescription drug, and nearly 20 percent are taking more than five prescriptions medicines.”  The study also looked at OTC medications and warns that there is a huge potential for “side effects, drug-drug interactions and negative outcomes.”  It also states that for the elderly, the possibility of dangerous drug interactions is even greater. 

One of the most important things that a patient or family member can do to reduce the likelihood of this happening is to communicate with all of your health care providers about the prescription and OTC medications that you take.   It is a good idea, especially if you take more than one medication, to write down the names of the drugs and the amount you take each day and carry it in your wallet.  You can also take a picture of the list of medications with your cell phone so you always have it handy.  Another tip is to fill your prescriptions at the same drug store and to build a relationship with the pharmacist as he or she can help to spot potential problems involving drug interactions.   

Annually review the need for each medication with your health care provider and discuss how long you will need to take the drug.  Lastly be sure to check each new prescription container for accuracy as pharmacies sometimes do make mistakes. 

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 drop in to our Information Center or give us a call to learn more about the finest assisted living in Santa Fe.   

Lifestyle Changes Can Make Your Senior Years Even Better

The good news is that today’s seniors are living longer than ever before.  New data suggests that if you reach the age of 65 years old, you can expect to live on average another 19 years.  Another encouraging survey reports that as many as 41 percent of people over age 65 say that they are in very good or excellent health. 

However, experts want to remind seniors that by making some lifestyle changes, they can make their senior years even better.  Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Reynolds Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock, notes that, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet." She further adds that individuals must “make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.”  Furthermore, doctors recommend that if you are a senior coping with a chronic medical condition that a geriatrician may help you to better manage your disease and improve your quality of life. 

Arthritis, heart disease, and cancer are the three most common diseases facing seniors.  Dr. Marie Bernard, deputy director of the National Institute on Aging in Bethesda, Maryland, reports that arthritis affects almost 50 percent of those 65 and over.  Also while the severity of the disease varies, for some seniors the condition and associated pain lowers their quality of life.  If you have arthritis, experts suggest that you work closely with your doctor to develop an activity and treatment plan.    

The CDC reports that heart disease is the leading killer of adults over age 65, and that 37 percent of men and 26 percent of women 65 and older are afflicted with chronic heart disease.  Dr. Bernard advises those with heart disease to “exercise, eat well, and get a good night’s rest.”  In addition she recommends maintaining a healthy weight.

The third most common disease among seniors is cancer, which is the second leading cause of death in individuals over 65.  The CDC reports that 28 percent of men and 21 percent of woman over 65 are living with cancer.  They recommend that seniors get routine screenings including mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks, as many cancers detected early are treatable. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Arcadia offers our residents the best assisted living in Phoenix AZ.

Source: everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/    

Is Assisted Living Right for You?

MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks understands that making the decision to move to assisted living can be difficult.  While change for any one can be hard, for seniors contemplating assisted living, it can feel like they are losing their independence.  This is why MorningStar offers both respite stays and short-term stays that give you the opportunity to experience our community and see what you think.

A respite stay offers the perfect place to recover from surgery or to convalesce in quiet quarters while getting the personal attention you need.  At the same time, you will have the companionship and community that can be just as important in the healing process. A short-term stay gives you chance to see firsthand how carefree and easy your life could be. 

During your stay, you will be afforded all of the amenities offered to our regular residents including 24-hour care, full-time licensed nurse, three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, and a whole range of activities, entertainment and outings.  We also offer group transportation along with a fireside patio and all-season porches that allow you to enjoy our beautiful grounds.  Additionally, we have an onsite library, theatre, fitness room and more.

While under our roof you will have the opportunity to enjoy wonderful meals, meet new friends and join in our many intellectual, physical, social and spiritual activities offered to all residents. Our caregivers are a team of truly special individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are the type of people who go out of their way to see to it that our residents have all of their needs met, even their unexpressed ones.

If you are interested in a senior living community that feels like home, please visit our website for more details.  We are honored to offer the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in the Reno/Sparks area. 

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 schedule a tour of our exceptional community.