Fall Prevention

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 muscle strength and keeps joints, tendons, 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 of Sparks’ goal is to be one of the best Greater Reno retirement communities, and the safety and comfort of our residents is our highest priority. Please visit our website for more information, availability and pricing. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other Greater Reno retirement 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 community.

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

nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

Everyday Tips for Aging Well

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 of Sparks, a Reno area independent and assisted living community, we make eating healthy easy as residents eat nutritional, tasty meals together in our charming dining room.  We provide seniors plenty of opportunities to socialize by participating in group enrichment activities and wellness programs that stimulate the mind, body and spirit.   Please visit our website for more details.

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 Sparks, NV.

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

Choosing an Assisted Living Community

Moving into assisted living is a life changing decision for an elderly person.  As their adult child, you can help evaluate which of the Greater Reno assisted living communities is most suitable for your parent and your family.  Furthermore, as the transition can be challenging for some seniors under the best of situations, choosing the wrong community may not only be costly but traumatizing for an older adult.  

Mistakes can be avoided or minimized if you do your homework beforehand and learn from others.  The Internet offers many commonsense tips on what to look for and what to avoid when searching for an assisted living community including advice from A Place for Mom, the nation’s largest assisted living referral service. 

As senior living options include independent living, assisted living and memory care, experts say to realistically assess your parent’s health needs and choose a community capable of handling today’s needs as well as future ones.  A Place for Mom’s Senior Living Advisor, Melissa Pratt explains “Take a look at the health issues that your parent has and ask the doctor what support they will need in the future. It’s better to have a community that can handle those future needs rather than having to move your parent to another community in the near future.”   

After looking over various senior living communities’ websites, narrow down your choice to a couple that seem to best meet your needs.  Then set up a tour.  Senior living advisors remind families to listen to the parent and not base their decision on which community appeals most to them.  If a parent is not up to making a decision, families need to remember what their parent is like and choose a place that fits their personality and preferences.  It is also smart to not make a decision too quickly. 

MorningStar of Sparks offers 128 bright suites for independent living, 80 for assisted living, and 32 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Please visit our website for more information about our beautiful, loving community.  If you like what you see, we encourage you to set up a tour. 

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

Learn to Communicate More Effectively with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.   

Typically in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words. Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of the time to answer you back.

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions. Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.  
   
In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity.

In addition to assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe’s Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate, loving memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.  Please call us to learn more about the area’s newest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.

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.  Conveniently located on the west side of town, please call for more details on unsurpassed senior housing.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

Building Our “MorningStar Family”

MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, first began forming the idea of starting a company from a desire to create senior living that was defined by the human touch.  He says his intention was to “re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” This simple but profound concept has driven the overwhelming success of our MorningStar brand.  Now fifteen years later, MorningStar continues to add new communities across the Western U.S. including our new MorningStar of Santa Fe’s assisted living and memory care community.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our goal is to create a true home for our residents - one that feels like a family.  To help us achieve this, our dedicated team strives to live up to our unique mission statement, which includes honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships and valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.  The last part of our mission statement is to invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well, as we know our brand demands committed individuals who will use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve our residents.

We also aspire to and nurture our core values of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness to help us build our MorningStar family.  Last month we focused on “goodness” and thought about the many ways we could spread the feeling to our residents, their families, and our fellow team members.  

If you are looking for the area’s finest senior housing, please visit our website to learn more about our community as well as pricing and availability.   We offer a choice of smartly-designed floor plans and configurations, a wide range of care services, resort-style amenities, and a loving care team.     
   
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 set up a tour to see firsthand what the best senior living in Santa Fe looks like.

Learn More About MorningStar Senior Living

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission is to provide the best senior living Phoenix offers. Our community has 80 bright suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites).  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

MorningStar Senior Living has over 30 communities currently open or under construction all across the country, including four in the Phoenix area.  MorningStar at Arcadia, with a loving care team and exceptional architecture and design, provides Phoenix seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.

MorningStar began in 2003 when founder, Ken Jaeger had a dream to start a senior housing company that was defined by the human touch. He says, “I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  From this came our guiding principles and three mission statements our company is based on:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships — a commitment to strong moral values and ethics
• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence
• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well — a commitment to hiring and retaining employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents

To eloquently illustrate our mission, all of our communities have a specially commissioned piece of art hanging in them.  The “Tree of Life embodies and celebrates our Mission and our Name. We encourage you to visit our website for more information, and while you are there, fill out our online form to set up a tour of our beautiful community.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, 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 has to offer.

Medication Management Can be Vital to a Senior’s Health

Many families may be unaware of the extensive care services that assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe offer to its residents.  One term that is useful to know is Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which describes the various care services found in an assisted living and memory care community.  These activities typically include dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, etc.  At MorningStar a resident’s care level is determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director (a licensed nurse).

One of the care services we offer is medication management by a Certified Med Care Manager.  The cost for this service is factored into a resident’s level of care and is part of their monthly fee.  Our service includes both the ordering and supervised administration of the medications, and we have two price points based on the number and type of prescriptions involved.

For many elderly people, medication management is a very important service.  Statistics show that “many hospitalizations are due to just a few drugs that should be monitored carefully to prevent problems. Blood thinners (such as warfarin), diabetes medications (such as insulin), seizure medications (such as phenytoin), and opioid analgesics are some examples of these medications.”

Forgetting to take prescribed medications, not taking the right dosage or not finishing prescriptions is common among seniors and can lead to serious medical problems.  Knowing a certified MorningStar medication manager is in charge of your loved one’s medications can provide a family with peace of mind. Dominick Bailey, a clinical pharmacist specializing in geriatric care reminds his elderly patients that, “Medications only work if you take them.”  He adds, “If they sit on the shelf, they don’t work.”

If you would like to know more about the newest senior living in Santa Fe, NM, please visit our website for contact information regarding pricing and availability or to set up a tour.   We are conveniently located at the intersection of St. Francis and St. Michael on the city’s west side. With 56 assisted living suites and 29 secure suites devoted to memory care, we offer a range of floorplans including spacious studio and one-and two-bedroom apartments.

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.  Conveniently located on the west side of town, we invite you to give us a call or visit our website for more on incomparable senior housing in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: cdc.gov/medicationsafety/adult_adversedrugevents.html

Improve Your Health Regardless of Your Age

It is more important than ever to take care of your health as Americans are living longer and we all want to ensure a healthier old age.  However even if you are already a senior, health care professionals say it is never too late to start improving your health.

Sian Robinson, a professor of nutritional epidemiology at the University of Southampton, recently authored a study on senior nutrition and states that, "Improving the quality of your diet can have a beneficial effect on health, whatever your age."  One recommendation is to eat more foods containing fiber.  Doctors report the addition of more fiber can positively impact your overall health by helping:  your colon work better and avoid constipation; reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer; and lower your blood cholesterol level.

Another change that can improve your overall health as well as help to make you feel better and increase your level of energy is to add physical activity to your daily life.  This also can strengthen your bones and muscles, which in turn can help to prevent falls. If you do fall, stronger bones are less likely to break. Physical active has additionally been found to help your brain as studies show people who exercise regularly make better decisions.

It is also beneficial for seniors to keep their minds active. Like our muscles, our brains need to be exercised regularly to improve memory loss and cognitive skills.  Activities such as targeted brain exercises and playing word and trivia games can help. Other habits that can enhance your health include not smoking, having regular checkups and learning how to prevent falls.

Our Phoenix assisted living home, MorningStar at Arcadia, provides seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Along with beautiful private suites, we also offer residents resort-style amenities and services as well as a range of activities, wellness programs and nutritional, tasty meals.  Visit our website to learn more.

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

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: familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html

For a Firsthand Look at MorningStar at Arcadia - 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 it may be difficult to find 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 and Memory Care at Arcadia, we are committed to provide one of the best senior living communities Phoenix offers, and we are happy to show off our beautiful community to visitors.  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 community and then fill out our “Schedule a Tour” form to see firsthand why residents are proud to call MorningStar at Arcadia home.  Our team will get back to you ASAP to set up a convenient day and time. We look forward to meeting you.

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. Call to schedule a visit to one of the finest senior living communities Phoenix has to offer.

Loving, Compassionate Memory Care at MorningStar of Sparks

As one of the top communities for senior living Reno or Sparks offers, MorningStar of Sparks feels it is our calling, and our privilege, to provide loving, compassionate memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  With 32 secure, memory care suites, we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. The Reflections Neighborhood is designed to allow residents the independence to move freely and safely about their surroundings.  To ensure safety, we have a secure courtyard for the exclusive enjoyment of our memory care residents.

In fact every aspect of our memory care is tailored to serve the needs of our most tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.  Once your loved one decides to join the MorningStar of Sparks’ family, we sit down with your family to learn as much as we can about their personal preferences, medical history and background in order to create an individualized care plan.  Every resident receives 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participates in daily activities and scheduled outings and events.

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Our program is another reflection of our Radiance culture and provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security and holistic solutions to challenging behaviors. 

Along with memory care, we offer exceptional independent living and assisted living.   Please visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents. 

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.

Protect an Elderly Loved One from Heat-related Illness

While beautiful, summers in Santa Fe are hot and sunny with temperatures typically in the mid-80s or higher so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated.   As statistics unfortunately show, during 1999-2009 “approximately 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.”

Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature.  When people over the age of 65 heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features.  Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun.  
Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.  Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out. Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems.  Furthermore it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease.

Diet can also play a role becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided.  If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.
At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide residents with a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  Our deliciously prepared meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage.  Please visit our website for more details and contact 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 give us a call or visit our website for more details about unparalleled senior living in Santa Fe, NM.
Source: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html
While beautiful, summers in Santa Fe are hot and sunny with temperatures typically in the mid-80s or higher so it is important to remember that seniors in particular can easily become overheated.   As statistics unfortunately show, during 1999-2009 “approximately 40 percent of all heat-related deaths in the U.S. – nearly 3,000 – were adults over 65 years old.”
Experts explain this is mainly due to the fact that as we age, we are less efficient at regulating our body temperature.  When people over the age of 65 heat up, they do not sweat as much as they did when they were younger and sweating is one of the body’s most important heat-regulation features.  Seniors also store fat differently, which makes them more prone to heat illnesses and as temperatures heat up, so does their internal body temperature especially in hot environments or in the direct sun.  
Another reason why seniors become overheated is their thirst sensation has lessened, which can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.  Instead of feeling thirsty, many seniors just feel tired and dragged out. Even the kidneys do not conserve body water as well, which can cause problems.  Furthermore it is important to know certain drugs can cause dehydration including diuretics and medications for blood pressure and heart disease.
Diet can also play a role becoming dehydrated, which is why food high in sodium should be avoided.  If you are a senior or help to care for one, please remember to drink water throughout the day, eat lots of fruit and vegetables, and to stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.
At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide residents with a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  Our deliciously prepared meals take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions with choices that include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for our residents to self-manage.  Please visit our website for more details and contact 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 give us a call or visit our website for more details about unparalleled senior living in Santa Fe, NM.
Source: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html

Want to See Santa Fe’s New Senior Living Community in Person?

MorningStar of Santa Fe’s gorgeous, pueblo-style community offers unparalleled assisted living and memory care for a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. We have 56 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 820 square feet).  Our memory care residents are in their own separate wing we call Reflections Neighborhood. The expansive area includes 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia right through to the most advanced stages.

While our team is more than willing to brag about how beautiful our home is and to tell interested families all about our resort-style amenities, wide range of care services and wonderful staff, we think you should see it for yourself.  The best way to really experience the loving atmosphere beneath our roof is to take a tour of our senior living community.

We make setting up a tour easy-to-do as we have a link right on a website.  The online form takes just a few minutes to fill out, and we even give you the chance to let us know your particular area of interest, and will tailor your visit with us to those priorities.

We recommend you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit in order to see what we are all about.  Also if you can, we encourage you to join us for a leisurely lunch; it is a great opportunity to sample our extraordinary food!   If you would like to do so, please count on being with us an additional 45 minutes. Simply let us know when you set up your tour.   Once you submit your online form, someone from our team will get back to you to schedule a day and time that is convenient for you. We look forward to meeting you!

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 of visit our website to set up a tour of the newest 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.

Our “Extraordinary Brand” of Senior Living is Now in Santa Fe

MorningStar of Santa Fe is not only the city’s newest senior living community but the most unique one with a mission statement of: honoring God in all business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted, contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team’s ability to serve.  We proudly bring to the area our special brand of compassionate assisted living and memory care, and while only open for a few months, we are well on our way to creating a loving “MorningStar family.”

Although we have all been busy, it has been enjoyable getting to know our new residents as we help them settle into their new home.  We attribute much of our smooth opening to MorningStar’s hardworking team members who embody qualities such as kindness and character.  We also feel blessed to have a group of wonderful residents and their families who have entrusted MorningStar’s team with their care. Another thing that has helped us to get it “right” is the fact that we are part of a company of highly-respected senior living communities spread out across the Western U.S., and thereby have lots of good examples to follow.   Our communities include MorningStar of Albuquerque, and MorningStar of Rio Rancho, which is set to open soon.

The MorningStar of Santa Fe team would love to hear from area families who are interested in our community.  We invite you to give us a call or email us (visit our website for contact information). Our website also has several online links for pricing and availability or to set up a tour. In addition we have lots of resources and information regarding assisted living in general such as how to start a conversation on the subject with an elderly parent.  Moreover you will find out a lot more about our special brand of assisted living. Please keep in mind that today’s senior housing is much different than it was even a couple of decades ago and our beautiful new community is a great example.

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living Santa Fe style 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 information or to set up a tour to see firsthand what the best senior living in Santa Fe, NM looks like.  

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers Compassionate Memory Care

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our mission is to provide the best senior living Phoenix has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents. As such, it means we can encourage and support independence and let residents move freely about their surroundings as much as possible.  Our community has 30 secure suites in a range of configurations that include studio to one and two-bedroom plans.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care involves treating each of our residents with the respect and dignity they deserve.  Even before a resident joins our community, we meet with them and their family to find out as much as we can about their background and interests as well as personal preferences.  From there, our Wellness Director creates an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s memory care includes leveraging the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort residents.  Our specially-trained care team understands that the essence of the person still exists despite the memory loss, and will strive every day to connect with and nurture that essence.   

We also proudly support the Alzheimer’s Association and partner with our local chapter to fundraise and participate in a variety of activities all throughout the year.  In addition, MorningStar makes it a point to find ways to involve and engage family members as we recognize that our service is as important to them as to the residing senior.  Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

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.

Chef Jacque Cornelis Creates a 5 Star Dining Experience

MorningStar of Sparks strives to be the best senior living Reno or Sparks offers, and provide residents with all of the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years.  As part of those amenities, we proudly offer residents meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious. 

Daily meals are prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, Jacques Cornelis.  Jacques was born in Belgium and first entered a professional kitchen at 14. For the next four years, he attended school as well as a culinary apprenticeship at a Michelin-starred restaurant.   As Jacques puts it “I fell in love from day one. You either have the hospitality gene or you don’t.”

MorningStar of Sparks’ cuisine is much the richer for Jacques’ many stints as a chef in restaurants of many ethnicities and styles, from some of the finest restaurants in Antwerp, Brussels and Paris to a golf course and a Tahoe resort.  Jacques specialties? Well, in a word, everything. After over 50 years in the profession, he is accomplished in all types of cuisines. Jacques explains “With perfected techniques and correct improvisation, you can prepare anything.”

Senior living is an ideal fit for Jacques as he is a senior himself and understands the special requirements of his senior clients.  His delightful meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest ingredients.  He loves hearing feedback and is open to all suggestions from our residents. 

Our meals also include BrainWise super foods that are known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These include foods such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens. 

Please visit MorningStar of Sparks to learn more about our wide variety of amenities and services.  Currently we are offering special pricing as an “anniversary gift to you.” Use our convenient online links to find out about availability and pricing or 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 learn more about the finest senior living Reno/Sparks has to offer.

Helping Your Parents Make the Move to an Assisted Living Community

If your parent has reached the time in their life where they need help with daily personal care activities, moving into assisted living is the perfect solution. You will have peace of mind knowing their needs are being met and they are safe and comfortable.  However as much of the task of helping them move will likely fall on your shoulders, you have probably begun to realize that paring back a lifetime’s worth of possessions is a bit overwhelming. Not to worry, there are many good books on the topic as well as useful tips on the Internet.  

Organizing experts caution that the job can be complicated and fraught with emotion because as you see a pile of stuff to sort through and toss; your parent sees treasures and memories.  Begin by creating a list of things your parent will need at their new place (keep in mind the size) and adding in the treasured items and personal belongings they want to keep. If something is hard for them to part with, help them to think of a family member or friend they would like to give it to.  Also remind them if they sell the item, they can use the money toward something better suited for their new home such as a smaller couch or coffee table.

Now the experts recommend going from room to room and to start sorting by keep, toss, or donate piles.  In addition rather than always asking your parent what they want to keep or get rid of, winnow down the selection, and then ask them yes or no questions.  Presorting items also helps to avoid keeping lots of multiple items.

By measuring the size of your parent’s new suite, you can create a floor plan to realistic show how well their furnishings will fit.  Include the amount of cupboards and storage space they will have to help you know how much is too much. Remember you do not want the new place to be so crowded that they can barely move safely about.

Keep in mind that if your parent is moving into a community such as MorningStar at Arcadia, we do the cooking and serve the food.  Also, our well-designed suites come equipped with mini blinds, carpeting, and overhead lighting. All that’s missing are personal furnishings and treasured items. And in case you were wondering, we are pet friendly.

If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Phoenix has to offer, visit our website to learn more about our beautiful assisted living and memory care community.     

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. Call to schedule a visit to one of the finest senior living communities Phoenix offers.

Learn More About MorningStar of Sparks

Our senior living community offers Sparks and Reno assisted living, independent living, and memory care.  We attribute our growth and success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership.  We feel extremely blessed to have a team of individuals working for us who are guided by their hearts and feel privileged to serve seniors.  They are the kind of people that do the right thing even when no one is looking and willingly go the extra mile to help our residents. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ care is guided through “Radiance,” our proprietary program, which celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light.  It forms the framework for how our service is delivered – with warmth, sincerity and depth!  Additionally our Radiance program provides a tangible and purposeful way to advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.

Once a team member is hired, they are trained in Radiance. and it is reiterated and strengthened each day during our daily “Huddle.”   We feel Radiance is lived out in a variety of ways throughout our community, and helps us to create an atmosphere of love, compassion and care as well as service professionalism.

For assisted living residents, our services include around-the-clock Care Managers, on site and at the ready, to ensure your safety as they meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.  Other services include a full-time licensed nurse (also on call 24/7). Certified Med Care Managers, scheduled health and care reviews, and more.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, which is devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we offer all-inclusive pricing.  Please check with us regarding a limited time offer for special pricing. 

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.