MorningStar at Arcadia offers Assisted Living at Its Finest

When searching for senior living options, many people are not entirely sure what the term “assisted living” means.  We will try and clarify.  One of the first things to know is assisted living is not just another word for a nursing home.  Nor does it offer the same level of care and typically is not as expensive.

So, what is assisted living?  Assisted living is designed for seniors who want to retain their independence but require some assistance with daily personal care activities.   While not all assisted living communities are the same in terms of the level of care, a typical assisted living home provides services for activities like bathing and dressing as well as prepared meals.

At assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Arcadia, we create individualized care plans for each resident after talking with them and their family. Furthermore, during the course of your stay, your care plan will be regularly reviewed to ensure it addresses your needs.  Also, regardless of the level of care, all residents receive the assurance of having 24/7 onsite Care Managers who help to ensure their safety and meet their every need.

As a resident of MorningStar, you will get three daily meals that are meticulously prepared largely from scratch by our Executive Chef.  Each meal is nutritious as well as delicious and recipes are modified to address a number of different dietary restrictions including low sodium or low fat, sugar-free, no sugar, and vegetarian options.  

In addition, our assisted living residents will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and programs that are designed to promote physical, intellectual and spiritual wellness.  Please visit our website for contact information to learn more about MorningStar at Arcadia’s beautiful community.

Our 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 residents an exceptional assisted living home.

A Reminder to Take Care When Walking Around the Community

MorningStar of Sparks wants to remind residents and visitors alike they need to remember that throughout our community a number of residents use walkers, electric or manual wheelchairs, and oxygen.  While these are necessary medical devices that help to keep our residents independent and functioning, we want to caution everyone that they can also be fall hazards to you as well as to others.

It is especially important to be careful when you move along the corridors at busy times including going through the dining room or during other social gatherings and events.  We have noticed that sometimes oxygen hoses are not wrapped up and may be lying on the floor where they can become trip hazards to others.  Another thing to look out for is wheelchairs parked with their foot pedals sticking out into the walk ways. 

Also remember if you are traveling in an electric wheel chair you need to take care when backing up or moving through crowds.  In other words, we all need to be aware when we move around the community and keep our eyes open for objects on the floor and around us to help prevent falls.     

The team at MorningStar additionally wants to remind all residents to enjoy the upcoming summer and to remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.  Also remember to dress appropriately when going outside – wear sunblock, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and long sleeves.  Stay in the shade whenever possible and avoid the heat of the day.  

We invite you to visit MorningStar of Sparks’ website to learn more about our Greater Reno assisted living and independent living community.   Along with exceptional architecture and design, our graciously-appointed common areas are extensions of our private suites, and include a bistro, library, expansive gathering places, general store, fitness room, fireside patio, and all-season porches.

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno assisted living and independent living options. 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 community.

Why Choose MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks?

Looking for the best senior living Reno or Sparks offers?  What sets MorningStar of Sparks apart from other communities?  To start with, we offer seniors a wide range of senior living options that start with our comfortable independent living with private suites and beautiful common areas.  MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities.

We are also proud to provide quality, compassionate memory care.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers a holistic approach to caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Our dedicated care team is trained to assist those at the onset of dementia, as well as those in the more advanced stages.

However the thing that really sets us apart from other area senior living communities is our unique mission statements.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded by Ken Jaeger, whose intention has always been to provide senior housing that feels like a loving home (just like his grandmother’s) and offers a sense of “family.”  Our mission statements start by honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing heavily in our teams’ ability to serve well.

MorningStar of Sparks’ extraordinary team is another reason we stand out from the rest.  Our team selection starts with heart, and we specifically seek out individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure residents receive first-class care and services.  Furthermore, we train our entire team in our culture we call Radiance, which lovingly guides the way we deliver service. 

We invite you to visit our website for more information.  While you are there, follow our link to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful community.  We want you to know that for a limited time we are offering special pricing as “our anniversary gift to you.”

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 learn more about the finest senior living Reno/Sparks has to offer.

Having a Pet Offers a Range of Benefits to Seniors

It turns out that being a pet owner can provide a range of benefits to seniors including helping them to live longer, healthier and more enjoyable lives.  One clinical study done several years ago tracked heart disease survivors after they were discharged from the hospital.  Studying survivors’ medical histories, lifestyles, families, and relationships, it found that, "The presence of a pet was the strongest social predictor of survival...not just for lonely or depressed people, but everyone - independent of marital status and access to social support from human beings." 

Another study done by the American Psychological Association found pets provide an important source of social support to their elderly owners.  Researchers explain that senior pet owners “fared better on several well-being (e.g., greater self-esteem, more exercise) and individual-difference (e.g., greater conscientiousness, less fearful attachment) measures.” 

It may be the benefits come from the fact that pets offer unconditional affection and companionship.  Also a pet requires seniors to stay engaged in the day-to-day process of caring for the animal as they need to feed, groom, walk and clean up after their pet. 

      

If you are thinking of getting a pet for an elderly family member, it is recommended that you consider the person’s physical health and personality.  AgingCare.com says you should also take into account the following: has the person owned a pet before; does the animal have a good temperament; and will owning a pet cause a financial hardship?   

MorningStar of Sparks is committed to provide the best senior living Reno or Sparks offers, and we understand that our residents do not want to leave behind their pet when they move into our community.   Please give us a call to learn more about our pet guidelines as well as to schedule a tour of our exceptional 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 learn more about the finest senior living Reno/Sparks has to offer.

Sources: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21728449, petsfortheelderly.org, agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

All-inclusive, Compassionate Memory Care

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar’s newly opened senior housing offers assisted living as well as experienced, compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.

Our memory care is in a separate wing we call Reflections Neighborhood and consists of 29 secure suites.  The area is specifically designed to allow residents the freedom to move safely about their spacious surroundings.  Also given the nature of dementia, residents pay one price for their suite and their care regardless of the level of memory loss.

As dementia care experts, our unique approach and philosophy to caring for those afflicted with the disease is called “Lavender Sky.”  We know the essence of the person remains despite the level of memory loss, and our job is to nurture and support the individual by finding ways to calm or stimulate as the situation demands.  Lavender Sky provides the path for us to enter, embrace, and explore the “purple world” of memory loss, and to cross over the physical, emotional, and relational boundaries that would otherwise separate us.   

Every aspect of our home is designed to provide the comfort, wellness and safety our special residents require including mealtime.  We know those suffering from memory loss can sometimes have compromised abilities at the table. We address this by providing a selection of finger foods, texture-modified diets (mechanical soft and puréed, thickened liquids), and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe invites area families to contact us for more information and availability and pricing.  To see firsthand our loving care, we encourage you to set up a tour of the finest senior housing in Santa Fe.

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 visit our website for more information on compassionate senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Seniors and Depression

Statistics show that depression in seniors is common; however, it is not a normal part of aging and should not be treated as such.   Many of the challenges seniors go through in the later stages of their life including the death of love ones, retiring from the workplace, and having one or more serious health problems or disability can result in a person developing depression.  While an estimated 6 million adults age 65 years and older have late-life depression, only 10% of those affected are treated for it.

Experts say there are several reasons why depression goes untreated in the elderly including the fact that symptoms are displayed differently from those in younger people. For example many seniors do show signs of sadness, the most common symptom of depression, and many are unwilling to share their feelings with anyone.  Seniors with depression often complain of feeling tired, have trouble sleeping and may be grumpy and irritable. Depression can even cause symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s such as confusion and attention problems.

In some cases symptoms of depression are misdiagnosed as being the result of medical conditions and/or from the side effects of medicines they take to treat the conditions.  The National Institute on Aging says depression can “co-occur with other serious medical illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease.” Furthermore they explain that depression can make these conditions worse and treating the depression can help older adults better manage their other health conditions.

If you think you have depression or that a loved one is suffering from the condition, you need to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider.  It can be treated but your doctor needs to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing the depression. Typical treatment for depression includes medication and psychotherapy.

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 visit our website to schedule a tour to experience firsthand the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Steps to Take to Help Prevent Falls

We have all heard stories or may have had an older relative take a fall that lead to serious injuries, hospitalization, or in the worst case, a fatality.  In fact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the fatal fall rate for people 65 years and older jumped 31 percent from 2007 to 2016, making falls the leading cause of injury-related death among people in this age group.  Falls are so common in the elderly that every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) says that many falls are preventable and publishes a one-page guide called “Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall.”  Their first tip is to find a balance and exercise class that is specifically designed to help older adults built strength and improve their balance and flexibility.  

NCOA also recommends talking to your doctor about your fall threat.  Ask if any medications you are taking have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, or other issues that could increase your risk for fall.  Moreover be sure to share any recent falls you may have had with your healthcare provider as well as your family.

Fall prevention includes having your vision and hearing tested annually.  If you need stronger glasses, get them and be sure to wear them. The next step is to do a survey of your home both inside and out to ensure you do not have unsafe areas that increase the likelihood of a fall.  Search the Internet for a checklist of things to look for in your home to improve safety. The NCOA suggests enlisting the aid of your family to help you keep your home safe for everyone.

MorningStar of Santa Fe’s assisted living and memory care comprehensively answers the demand for luxury senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.  Along with our architecturally stunning building and resort-style amenities, we are most proud of our loving team of caregivers with a felt calling to serve.  Please visit our website to set up a tour of our 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.  For more information, please give us a call or visit our website to set up a tour of the area’s finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: ncoa.org/wp-content/uploads/NCOA-Falls-Free-Infographic-680pixels-0917.pdf

Wondering if Assisted Living is Affordable?

Many seniors and their families fear assisted living is too expensive but once you actually look into it, you may be surprised to discover it can actually be less costly than trying live on your own.  At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we offer families a great deal especially when you consider all of the resort-style amenities and top-quality services we provide.   

To help ensure assisted living is within reach of our community, one of the jobs we take seriously at MorningStar of Sparks is to help our families find resourceful ways to make assisted living affordable.  We help you explore innovative financial solutions and often under-used benefits that may be available to you beyond traditional retirement savings and investments. 

 

If you have Long-Term Care Insurance, you will want to carefully read through your policy to determine what type of expenses it covers.  You will find specifics regarding daily benefits, policy limits, and the elimination period under your Benefits Summary.

Another way we help families make assisted living more affordable is let them know they may be eligible for often untapped Veteran Benefits.   Please refer to our Veterans page for a full explanation of the generous “Aid & Attendance” Pension issued by the US Department of Veteran Affairs.

We remind seniors to think about leveraging life insurance policies or selling their home to pay for assisted living.  We also offer Companion Living, in which two unrelated people of the same sex may share a suite as well as expenses.  Please visit MorningStar of Sparks’ website to learn more about our Greater Reno assisted living.  In addition, our beautiful community offers independent living and memory care. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care options. 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 community.

Wellness Programs & Activities Designed to Keep You Engaged

Now that MorningStar of Santa Fe is up and running, so too is our Life Enrichment Team who is busy providing our residents with a whole range of engaging, entertaining wellness programs and daily activities.  To get a feel for a day in the life of a resident at our beautiful community, please take a look at our monthly calendar posted on our website.

For example, during a day in April, our residents had a choice of activities that included joining the 9:00 AM Walking Club, participating in the 10:30 Chi Gong class, and after lunch, attending the 1:30 Matinee Movie.  Later that afternoon, you could try your hand at the 3:30 Horseshoe Toss, and after dinner, join the group for a 6:00 Nightcap Social. During the month, residents did Chair Yoga, enjoyed a live music concert, or had fun in an Arts & Crafts Class.  If Bridge is your thing (or you have always wanted to learn), join the Bridge Club or get involved in the art of Flower Arranging. Other activities that go on around MorningStar are game nights, trivia contests, and a range of physical exercises perfected for our residents.

During the month of April, MorningStar of Santa Fe also has a Backyard BBQ planned, a trip to the International Folk Art Museum, a meeting of our Resident Council,  and a couple of relaxing scenic drives. So whether you are a knitter or want to learn, take part in a cooking demonstration, join the Garden Club, and much, much more, we either have it on the calendar or encourage our residents to go ahead and start a club.

MorningStar of Santa Fe is a step above other senior housing and offers everything seniors need to ensure their comfort, wellness and safety.  We have 56 bright suites for assisted living and another 29 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability.

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 set up a tour or call for pricing and availability to all-inclusive senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Thinking About Assisted Living for Your Parent?

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we understand there are all sorts of emotions that occur when a family begins to look into assisted living for a parent or a loved one.  Often it is a complete learning experience as many people do not know what assisted living offers and how it differs from a nursing home.

Assisted living is a fairly new concept and is designed for seniors who want to maintain their independence but need a little help with daily living activities.  Based on the European social model, it creates a new paradigm in wellness and engagement, and we believe that the structure and society offered in assisted living communities introduces a return of healthy routines and healthier lives.
Our recommendation for opening a conversation about making some changes in the way your parent is living should be done when everyone is gathered and relaxed.  Also remember nothing has to be decided on all at once, and while it should ultimately be a family decision, the person involved needs to be given a voice.

We also understand that searching for the most suitable senior living community is difficult as there are many factors to consider.   We suggest that once you narrow down several choices, you set up tours to experience the communities firsthand. The child of the person or healthier spouse should do the tours, and not more than two a day, as there is a lot of information to take in.  

Assisted living communities like MorningStar of Albuquerque are designed to allow seniors’ their independence and give them the opportunity to stay socially active.  We have put together a “Conversation Guide” that goes into even greater depth regarding helping families to make the transition. When you contact us, please ask for a copy.

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 learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

Resort-style Amenities Included in Your Monthly Fee

Now that MorningStar of Santa Fe is open, we have had a lot of enquires and interest from area seniors and their family members.  FAQs include how our pricing is structured as well as availability. In assisted living, fees are based on the level of care a resident requires.  For memory care residents, we offer all-inclusive pricing, which means suite rental and care, whatever the level of need, is one price.

To calculate your level of need in assisted living, you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director and go over your medical history and personal preferences to create an individualized care plan.  This sets the basis of your Care Level (we have five) and your monthly fee accounts for the costs and time to provide the needed services. These can include help with daily personal care activities (grooming, bathing, toileting, etc.) and medical assistance.

If you are concerned the cost of assisted living may be too high for your means, we want to remind you that senior housing can be very cost-effective as there are many things you will no longer pay for out-of-pocket.  This includes the costs of your monthly utilities. At MorningStar your monthly fee includes cable TV & utilities, laundry facilities, and three daily meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef. In addition we have scheduled transportation every week for rides to medical appointments as well as transportation to organized activities and cultural events.

Assisted living residents also have access to a full-time Licensed Nurse and our loving 24-hour care staff.  Our wellness programs and activities engage and support our residents’ mental, physical, spiritual and social connections and allow the opportunity to continue to learn and grow.  

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, the care, comfort and wellbeing of our residents are the foremost considerations for everything we do.  Our dedicated team, the heartbeat of our community, delivers service that represents the mission and philosophy of MorningStar Senior Living - honoring God and valuing seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.

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 visit our website for contact information regarding the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

Now that You have Decided to Move to an Assisted Living Community

Now that the hard decision is over and you or a parent has decided that moving into assisted living makes the most sense for your/their needs, you may need to downsize a houseful of furniture and decades of belongings.  While this can seem like an overwhelming task, take a deep breath, try to relax and read some tips from organizing experts.

Organizing your approach to the task should be your first step and begin by cataloging a list of your furniture and possessions.  Now create lists for the things you want to keep, items you want to give to family or friends, and items to sell.  Anything left over should go on a list to donate.
Before you get too far ahead of yourself, you will also need to remember that your apartment in the assisted living community may be smaller than your present home.  This means you will not need a whole household full of furniture!

It may be helpful to measure the size of the suite and create a floor plan to give yourself 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. You may even want to buy a smaller couch or coffee table that is better suited to the size of your new home.  Also bins and shelving help keep items organized and easy to get to.

Furthermore, keep in mind that your new life at a senior living community will be much easier as you will no longer be responsible for preparing meals and maintaining a home.  At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we cook and serve the meals as well as provide light housekeeping, daily trash removal, and laundry and linen services.

MorningStar of Albuquerque provides residents with a home that is both beautiful and accommodating. We offer 48 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including spacious studio, one bedroom, and two bedrooms floor plans.  The Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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 learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

Santa Fe’s Newest Senior Living Community is Creating a “Loving Home”

MorningStar of Santa Fe is so pleased to finally get the chance to serve as well as get to know our wonderful residents now that our beautiful assisted living and memory care community is open.  While new to Santa Fe, we are not new to the state and have two other New Mexico communities - MorningStar of Albuquerque and MorningStar of Rio Rancho.

Our leadership team brings their vast experience of serving seniors to MorningStar, and understands all it takes to give residents a quality of life unmatched by other assisted living facilities.  In addition they are building and coaching a loving team of individuals with a felt calling to serve who willingly embrace our mission to help elevate the lives of our residents.   

In fact, MorningStar’s entire team has been busy helping residents get settled in and creating a warm and welcoming home for them.  Already we have had the privilege of celebrating the Easter holiday with our MorningStar family and look forward to all of the fun, upcoming festivities we will be enjoying together.

In June, our community will join other MorningStar senior living communities across the Western U.S. to celebrate the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day event on June 21, at summer solstice - the longest day of light.  People from around the world will come together to raise funds and awareness of the disease as well as honor those affected by it.  Our MorningStar of Santa Fe celebration will include residents, team members, family members and friends of our community.
Please visit our website to learn more about compassionate senior living in Santa Fe.  Our community offers 56 bright suites for assisted living that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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 set up a tour to see firsthand the finest senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.

Falls are the Leading Cause of Injuries for Older Americans

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) states that, “falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten seniors’ safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs.”  They report one in four adults over the age of 65 fall each year and account for more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency rooms annually, and result in over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.

However they say falls do not have to be an inevitable result of aging.  Rather with some practical lifestyle adjustments as well as public campaigns on how to reduce the problem from the NCOA and other organizations, the number of yearly falls can be reduced.  The NCOA’s evidence-based Falls Free® National Action Plan was updated in 2015, and includes “goals, strategies and action steps to increase physical mobility, reduce the impact of medications as a falls risk factor, and improve home and environmental safety.”

The National Institute on Aging explains some of the steps seniors can take to help protect themselves from a fall.  The first thing is to stay physically active. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking or climbing stairs improves muscles strength and keeps joints, tendon, and ligaments more flexible.  Another fall-prevention tip is to have your eyes and hearing tested. If you need glasses, wear them, and if you have a hearing aid, wear it.

In addition ask your healthcare provider if your medications have side effects that can make you dizzy or sleepy.   It is also important to get enough sleep and to limit the amount of alcohol you drink as even a small amount can affect your balance.  

Stand up slowly, and have your blood pressure checked if you feel dizzy.  If you feel wobbly when walking, use an assistive device such as a cane or walker.  A physical or occupational therapist can help you choose the right device and teach you how to safely use it.

During wet or icy conditions, use extra caution when walking, and always wear non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes.  Lace-up shoes give you the ability to adjust the amount of support you need, but do not buy shoes with soles that are too thin or too thick.  Around the house, wear shoes or slippers with non-slip bottoms.

MorningStar at Arcadia is committed to provide the best senior living Phoenix has to offer, and our assisted living and memory care community was designed from the ground up to provide a safe, supportive and loving environment.  We provide 24/7 Care Managers, access to licensed nurses, and much more.  Please visit our website for availability and pricing.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Sources: ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/
nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

Be Your Best as You Age

As we grow older, experts say there are some relatively simple changes we can do to help make the process smoother, and remind us it is never too late to adopt healthier habits.  They suggest four main areas to focus on that will make a difference in our overall health.

First, multiple studies have shown that taking care of our emotional health is important.   Many older adults suffer from chronic health conditions (80% have at least one and 50% have two or more) including heart disease or cancer, which can put seniors at risk for depression.  When a person’s emotional health suffers, it can negatively impact other aspects of their health. In fact research shows a link between depression and social isolation to “digestive problems, heart failure and weakened immune systems.”  Thus it is important for seniors to reach out for help if they feel depressed and to participate in activities that give their lives purpose and maintain or develop social connections.

The next area to focus on is exercise.  Experts say we should look at exercise as more than a way to get stronger and/or to lose weight.  Exercise provides a whole range of benefits including helping to boost immunity and preventing muscle loss, as well as improving blood flow and strengthening the brain.   

Another suggestion is to take better care of our hair and skin.   Good skin care can help to avoid infections and should include washing with a mild soap while taking care not to “over wash” and moisturizing daily.  Also apply sun screen whenever you go outdoors.

The last area to focus on for better health is nutrition.  Did you know that millions of seniors suffer from malnutrition?  One of the problems facing the elderly is that as we age, appetites decrease so getting all the nutrients the body requires is challenging.  Seniors need to keep in mind that it is not just about how much you eat but what you eat. One thing that appears to help seniors eat better is to make eating a social affair.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we make this easy as residents eat nutritional, tasty meals together in our beautiful dining room.   We provide seniors the opportunity to socialize as much as they want by participating in group enrichment activities and wellness programs that stimulate the mind, body and spirit.   Please visit our website for more details on the best assisted living home in Phoenix.
Our 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 residents an exceptional assisted living home.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/how-to-make-a-daily-healthy-aging-routine/

MorningStar at Arcadia’s Holistic Approach to Wellness

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our mission is to provide seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  To ensure residents the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer, we define health and well-being holistically and back it up with an array of services and programming that support the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

Wellness is enhanced through our Life Enrichment wellness programs and activities as well as through our Wellness Care Team.  MorningStar has the expertise and authority to provide the level of resident care that can extend the stay of residents in spite of changing health conditions.  To this end, we pride ourselves on working hard to create solutions for residents and their families that result in higher quality of care at lower costs.

Assisted living residents are thoroughly evaluated by our Wellness Director when they join our community, in order to create a care plan that is appropriate to their needs.  In addition, we do routine Care Planning Reviews and Scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations to make sure residents continue to get the right amount of assistance as they need it.

Our care services include 24-hour Care Managers and a CPR trained staff member on every shift, Licensed Nurses on call 24/7, medication management by Certified Med Care Managers, and palliative/hospice care.  We also offer oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care, diabetic management and more. Our residents are provided transportation to medical appointments, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services.  Please visit our website to read the full list of all of our services, and if you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to give us a call.

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia offers residents a safe, comfortable home to age in place with resort-style amenities and meaningful activities.  We encourage you to schedule a tour to see for yourself why our residents are pleased to call MorningStar “home”.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Need to Downsize Before Moving to a Senior Community?

If you are ready to move from your family home into independent or assisted living, we have some helpful suggestions to help you organize and downsize your life’s possessions.  Organizing experts caution that while the task may seem overwhelming, you need to create a plan, take it one step at a time, and give yourself plenty of time.  If you are unable to do the work due to your health, there are professionals you can hire that specialize in helping seniors move. 

It is recommended you start in one room and work from there.  Recruit as much help as you can from family and friends and set up piles of items you will keep, stuff to donate or sell at a yard sale, and things you want to gift to people. 

Always keep in mind that your new space is most likely going to be smaller so get rid of duplicates and consider how your new lifestyle will be different from how you are now living.  For instance, if you are moving into a community that offers meals, chances are you will need only basic kitchen items. 

The same goes for furniture.  It is suggested you make a floor plan of your new place so you have an idea of the scale of what will fit.  Consider selling furniture such as a coffee table or couch that seems too big and use the money toward purchasing pieces that are more suited to the size of the place.   Not only will your place be more comfortable and look better, but it is important to have open pathways throughout your suite to help prevent the risk of a fall.    

If you are looking for the best senior living Reno or Sparks has to offer, please visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar of Sparks “home.”  Our community has 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 for assisted living in a variety of floor plans. Additionally, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 32 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment. 

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 invite you to schedule a tour to learn more about the finest senior living Reno/Sparks offers.

Have Questions About MorningStar at Arcadia?

If you are searching for an assisted living home for yourself or a parent, you probably have some questions regarding what type of care is offered.  At MorningStar at Arcadia, we understand the concerns families have and provide answers to FAQs on our website as a good way to get you started.
For example, one question we get asked often is our age requirement and the answer is you must be at least 62 years old. We also get asked if couples can live together.  Of course! Couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or suites can be shared by friends of the same sex who simply enjoy one another’s company.

Another question we are frequently asked is, “do we offer short-term stays.”  Yes, it is based on availability and we do ask that you commit to at least a week’s stay or a full month.  This gives you the chance to sample a life free from cooking and household chores, and to participate in a bustling calendar of activities and enjoy the instant companionship.  

If you are concerned that your parent may not get the care they need, there is no reason to worry.  Before your parent joins our community, our Wellness Director will sit down with your family to discuss your parent’s medical history and personal preferences.  From here, we create an individualized care plan that meets everyone’s approval. This plan will be routinely evaluated and updated as the need arises.

You will also find our pet policy on our FAQs page.  We are a pet friendly community and recognize the tremendous benefits animals offer to all of us.  We do assess an animal’s appropriateness for our community on a case-by-case basis, and we have some restrictions on breeds.   There is also a one-time, nonrefundable pet fee.

We encourage you to visit our website to read the answers to other questions you may have regarding our assisted living.  However if you do not see the information you need, please give us a call as we are ready to help.   We look forward to meeting you and your family.

Our 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 residents an exceptional assisted living home.

Learn More About Walkers

Many older adults, especially those in senior living communities, are no longer as steady on their feet as they used to be.  This puts them in danger of a fall, which can have many serious repercussions on a seniors’ health.  If you are considering getting a walker to help you move more safely around, you need to know something about them. 

For starters since there are several kinds of walkers, you should consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assist you on finding the most suitable one.  They will make sure it is your size as well as the right type.  To determine size, you should be able to stand between the rails, and the width of the walker should be level with the insides of your wrists. A professional will also teach you how to use the walker and provide tips for normal activities such as sitting down while using a walker.  This is done by backing up until you feel the seat of the chair behind you.  Now bend forward at your hip and reach behind with one hand to grab the armrest.  Do the same with your other hand as you carefully lower yourself onto the center of the chair.        

Common types of walkers include a basic walker that has four legs with rubber tips on each one.  To use, a person must pick up the walker as they take a step.   A wheeled walker can have two fixed wheels on the front that do not swivel side to side or have rubber tips on the front legs and small wheels on the back.  These walkers allow people to walk more naturally as they do not need to be picked up with each step.  A three-wheel walker has one wheel in front and two in back and offers the advantage of being lighter and easier to move around in smaller spaces. 

Rollators are four-wheeled walkers and can be equipped with a seat for a basket.  These walkers are equipped with hand brakes and are ideal for people who do not need to apply a lot of weight to the walker.  However they are not recommended for people with dementia as they may forget to use the hand brake.  Please visit MorningStar of Sparks to learn more about our Greater Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care.

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno assisted living, independent living and memory care options. 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 community.