The Effects of Watching Too Much Television

For years research has suggested children should have limits placed upon their daily screen time, and now a large study suggests the same may be true for older adults.   A published report from the University College London in the United Kingdom indicates that older adults who spent at least 3.5 hours a day watching television experienced a greater decline in verbal memory.  The study’s data was taken from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), which included 3,662 participants age 50 years and older. 

Participants answered researchers’ questions in 2008-2009 and then again in 2014-2015 regarding the time they spent watching TV.  Afterward they were given a series of tests that measured verbal memory and fluency.  Results showed adults who watch 3.5 or more hours of TV daily had an “average decline of 8–10 percent in word- and language-related memory over the 6 years the study covered. This is compared with a lower 4–5 percent average decline in those who watched fewer hours of TV per day over the same period.”   For the verbal memory tests, participants were asked to memorize and then recall lists of words within a given time.  The verbal fluency tests required them to list as many examples, such as animals, they could in a given amount of time.  The semantic fluency of the study’s participants did not seem to be affected. 

It was noted that most of the studies involving the effects of TV watching have been done on children and little to no studies on older adults.  One of the study’s co-authors, Dr. Daisy Fancourt, who works in the Department of Behavioral Science and Health says, "Much less attention has been paid to the effects of television viewing at the other end of the lifespan, despite it being hypothesized for over 25 years that watching excessive television could contribute to the development of dementia."

For the area’s finest independent and assisted living, Reno area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Sparks, a true destination for successful aging.  Our residents have a whole lot more to do than just watching TV as our community provides a range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate the brain and encourage connection.  Please call or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Sparks proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324598.php

Is it Time for a Memory Care Community?

It is typically with mixed emotions that a family comes to the realization that their loved one needs more care than they can get at home.  When this happens, there are several things to consider as you search for the best memory care. 

One of the first things you need to know is that “memory care” is committed to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Assisted living is intended for those that require some extra care with their daily living activities in order to retain their independence and live their lives safely and comfortably.    

Many senior living communities like MorningStar of Sparks have a separate area devoted to memory care residents.  Memory care staff members should have gone through specialized training in order to understand the disease as well as to effectively care for those with dementia.

At MorningStar our Reflections Neighborhood team members are extensively trained to care for our tender residents and our community is uniquely designed to allow residents to freely move about to explore their surroundings.  You also will want to know the level of care the community is equipped to handle.  At MorningStar, we care for those from the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages. 

Other questions should include how secure is the community and what is the staff/resident ratio during the day as well as at night.   In addition, do residents receive regular health monitoring, is there a nurse on staff, and will there be a thorough intake process before your loved one joins the community?  Ask how meals are handled, and when will you be contacted if there is a problem. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Reno area MorningStar of Sparks may be your answer.  In addition to our loving memory care community, we offer 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 for assisted living in a variety of floor plans.  All of our units are ready to move into and just need your furnishings and personal items to feel like home.  Please contact us for more information. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living Reno-Sparks offers.

Source: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/memory-care-checklist

It is Important to Stay Connected with Your Loved Ones

If you have elderly loved ones who are living alone or in senior living communities that have halted visits, the AARP offers several things you can do to help them stay socially connected and avoid feeling isolated.  Remember one of the most important things we can do is to let them know they are loved and missed. 

The easiest way you can do this is through frequent phone calls, but also don’t forget other ways of communicating such as sending a letter or greeting card through the snail mail reminding them you are thinking of them.  Include the kids by having them draw a picture for grandma or grandpa or if they are old enough, have them also write a letter. 

It definitely makes it more personal to stay in touch if your parent has a computer or a smart device that lets you facetime or skype on a regular basis and the AAPR has some ideas of how to use video-calling to keep it fun.  One suggestion if your kids are young is to arrange to have grandma or grandpa read books to them over a video-call (if they do not have suitable books, go online and send them some). Or if your child is learning to read, have them read to their grandparents. 

Another thing you can do is schedule a meal to be delivered to them from a local carry out place or from a service such as Grubhub, and settle down and enjoy sharing a meal with them while video chatting.  In addition, conversation starters can include watching the same movie or documentary and then spend time talking about it, or setting up a game or chessboard and playing the game together over the phone.  

The MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community offers trusted senior living our families depend on.  Our comprehensive, compassionate care includes services and programming that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit.  Please visit our website for availability and pricing or give us a call with any questions. We offer families peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving the very best care. 

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 call or visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living in Santa Fe.

Source:
aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/boost-morale-during-coronavirus.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R4-POS2-REALPOSS-TODAY

MorningStar of Albuquerque Offers Holistic Memory Care

Along with some of the finest assisted living Albuquerque offers, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.  

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. 

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be.  Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care.  This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch. However most importantly, we embrace hope. 

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration, and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions.  Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.  Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque NM has to offer.

We are Vigilant in Our Approach to the Coronavirus Outbreak

At the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we are staying vigilant in our approach to the outbreak of the new coronavirus (Covid-19) disease.   Our highest priority is to the health and safety of our residents, their families and our staff members.  

We are doing all we can to achieve this including instituting a policy that temporarily suspends non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our home.  MorningStar is also keeping up-to-date and following closely, and in many cases exceeding, guidelines set by the CDC to ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone in our home. 

Some of these actions include having all assisted living residents dine in their suites with the exception of those with an Individualized Service Plan that requires assistance with eating.  They will be served in the dining room, widely spaced from one another. Our memory care residents will dine as usual but they too will be spread out as far apart as possible.  Other steps include suspending all non-essential visits (medical personal and end-of-life situations are the exception), eliminating all resident outings, and cancelling all events and outside entertainment. 

All of our team members have received training on infection control with an emphasis on hand sanitation including information from the CDC on COVID-19 and the uniqueness of this viral strain.  We have ordered extra disinfectants and other cleaning supplies as we as modified and increased the frequency of our cleaning practices throughout our home.   

However most importantly of all, our team knows our residents well and is on high alert for any signs of respiratory illness, and has plans in place to address this including protocols for quarantine and relocation, as needed.  We invite you to visit our website to read our full coronavirus COVID-19 update.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers 56 compassionate, comfortable assisted living suites with options that include spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans, some as large as 820 square feet.  We also have 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more about availability and pricing. 

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.  Visit our website for more information about unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe.

Power of Attorney for Health Care

A power of attorney is simply a directive that names someone you trust to act as your agent in the event that you are unable to speak for yourself.  A medical power of attorney, also called an “advance directive,” names someone to specifically act on your behalf in regards to any medical matters. 

If you or a family member is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it is especially important to have a medical power of attorney.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the kinds of medical decisions covered by a power of attorney for health care includes: doctors and health care providers, types of treatment, and care facilities.  The designated medical power of attorney may also need to make some end-of-life decisions such as issuing a “do not resuscitate” (DNR) order or not consenting to a feeding tube when a person reaches the later stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia. 

The website, WebMD suggests that a person entrusted to be your medical power of attorney should be someone “who is not intimidated by medical professionals and is willing to ask challenging questions,”   They also add that the person needs to be able to put aside their own feelings about a medical option and be ready to carry out your wishes.  

Drawing up a legal power of attorney for health care does not require an attorney, and if it is appropriate, the same person can be named as your financial and medical power of attorney.  As forms are state-specific, be sure to use the right form for your state. Once you have filled it out, it will probably need to be witnessed, and in some cases may also need to be notarized.  When you have completed the process, let your family and anyone else involved in your care, including your doctor and hospital have a copy of the form.  

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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 our exceptional community.

Sources:  alz.org/help-support/caregiving/financial-legal-planning/legal-documents
webmd.com/palliative-care/advance-directives-medical-power-attorney 

Exercise is Beneficial for Everyone

Research has shown over and over again that physical exercise is beneficial to older adults regardless of their age and health limitations.  If you are an older adult who is already physically active, you may be helping to “prevent problems like a lower maximum heart rate, reduced muscle mass, bone loss, stiffened tendons and ligaments, and some joint or nerve problems.”  Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

If you are an older adult with some health limitations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Heart Association offer some useful tips for safely benefiting from physical activity.  Just remember, before you start any new exercise regimen, consult with your health care provider. Also while you may not be able to attain the recommended 150 minutes a week, experts say you should try to engage in as much physical activity as you can. 

Adjust the intensity of your physical activity to your fitness level, and find activities you can do all year round and enjoy.  Walking is considered to be a good exercise for older adults as it can easily be adjusted to one’s fitness level by adjusting the length of the walk and pace.  Also remember to wear comfortable clothing as well as properly fitting footwear. Walking with someone makes good sense for safety reasons and provides companionship. 

For seniors at risk of falling, it is important to do exercises to improve your balance.  Most of the recommended exercises are easy-to-do at home and can be done daily. You will want to start any new activity slowly and increase your progress gradually.  Another thing to remember is to drink plenty of water throughout the day and during your exercise activity. Keep in mind that as we age our thirst sensation diminishes, and by the time you feel thirsty, you may already be partially dehydrated.    

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we provide seniors carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Beautifully designed to meet our residents’ every need, MorningStar offers a range of wellness programs and activities to engage and support physical, intellectual, social and spiritual connection.  Please visit our website for more information on the finest assisted living Albuquerque has to offer.

Please contact your healthcare provider before you start, change, or stop any type of physical activity or exercise.

MorningStar of Albuquerque proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque NM offers.

Source:secondscount.org/heart-resources/heart-resources-detail?cid=8ad2d089-64a5-4d99-940d-818a250c91a4&gclid=CjwKCAjw8uLcBRACEiwAaL6MSdJGtogzc3uJW1v0Cds9HDujMEoE1SvNRSc8klNZtAy9fhBasY4e9xoCc5YQAvD_BwE#.W5kePuhKiM9

Do Your Elderly Parents Live Alone?

Now may be the time to consider moving your parents into senior living as a way to ensure they get the daily support they need in a safe, comfortable environment.  Senior living communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe provide all of the comforts and care residents need to thrive!
Senior living also provides peace of mind if your mom or dad has poor balance or failing eyesight, which can increase the likelihood of a fall, and not having help close at hand can be dangerous.  In addition if a parent no longer drives, it may be difficult for them to get groceries and other necessary supplies including prescription medications or to see a doctor.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide seniors assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to help maintain their independence.  Residents and their families take comfort knowing our trained care managers are there to help them navigate through any changes in their health condition.  And if you wondered, couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or a suite can be shared by friends who enjoy one another’s company. 

Another thing you will no longer have to worry about is whether mom or dad is getting enough good, healthy food to eat.  MorningStar’s daily meals feature the freshest ingredients and are prepare using the highest quality produce, often homegrown and locally sourced as we know there is nothing like fresh foods to stimulate the senses and the appetite.  

Along with 56 assisted living suites, we have 29 suites dedicated to providing memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Finally MorningStar wants you to know that during this time of the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website for more information on unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  

Learn More About Memory Care

If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, you may be looking for senior living Phoenix area families trust to provide the best care for your loved one. A specialized memory care community such as MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer. 

Memory care communities such as MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Services include 24-hour supervision and typically offer a secure environment specifically designed to keep residents safe and secure. This means residents are encouraged to be as independent as possible and are free to explore their surroundings.    

Another thing to know about memory care is that it has evolved through the years.  Today’s communities now offer wellness programs that help deal with memory impairment and wandering issues as well as other common dementia behaviors.  At MorningStar at Arcadia, we provide residents a number of specialized programs and highly personalized care that addresses their unique needs.  

Studies also show residents in memory care communities have a higher quality of life.  A Place for Mom, the largest senior living referral website, reports that residents in memory care have “reduced medication and medication side effects; fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; increased nutrition and wellness; and greater independence and social interaction.”  They also add that close to 75 percent of residents experience an improvement or maintenance of mental functioning.  

As a family member of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be struggling to understand the disease and its consequences.  MorningStar at Arcadia recognizes many of our residents’ families need help navigating through the various challenges of the disease, and we are grateful we can provide the support they need.  Please visit our website to learn more about our individualized, holistic memory care. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care 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 the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Visit Our Website to See Photos of MorningStar of Albuquerque

If you are looking for the best memory care or assisted living Albuquerque has to offer, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Albuquerque.

MorningStar of Albuquerque provides a loving, compassionate home to seniors who require a little extra assistance with their daily care activities.  By offering 48 stylish, private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations, we are certain to have a floor plan that meets your needs.  For seniors suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 secure suites devoted to their individualized care. 

We encourage you to visit our website as we have lots of information available along with many photos that capture the full beauty and inviting warmth of our community.  Starting on our home page and continuing with our extensive Gallery pictures, you will see our beautiful suites and inviting common areas that create a true “home” for our residents. 

Your private suite has been designed with all of the conveniences and safety precautions needed to ensure both your comfort and safety.  Each bathroom is handicapped accessible and all apartments have an emergency call system. Throughout our large common areas, we offer amenities such as a bistro, chapel/theater, spa bath, massage room, salon, fitness room and more.  To enjoy the outdoors, we offer a fireside patio and porches.

Along with our gorgeously designed home, MorningStar of Albuquerque has a team of care providers who are dedicated to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  We are pet friendly as well as conveniently located to medical facilities, shopping, banks and restaurants. 

MorningStar of Albuquerque proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque NM offers.

Independent Living or Assisted Living?

Often families are confused with the terms “independent living” and “assisted living” and are not sure which one is best suited for their needs.  To clarify, the term independent living is used to describe senior living communities that are designed specifically for seniors 55 and older who want to and are able to live without any help.  Assisted living is designed for seniors who still wish to live independently with personal privacy and autonomy, but require a little assistance in their daily lives. 

Independent living is ideal for individuals who no longer wish to maintain their own home and desire a more carefree lifestyle.  While each community can vary, many offer amenities such as social activities, day trips and meals. Senior independent communities offer residents the freedom to enjoy their retirement years without being tied down with mowing lawns, shoveling snow and other routine chores that need to be done when owning a home.   

At assisted living communities, residents get help with daily personal care and are provided with an array of services such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, daily meals, and 24 hour supervision.  Generally a community assesses in-coming residents to determine the level of assistance needed that is agreeable to the senior and their extended family. Other amenities offered by assisted living communities may include a range of activities and wellness programs.

Looking for the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer?   MorningStar at Arcadia is proud to offer 80 suites for assisted living and 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Along with stylish suites, our community has a fireside courtyard, chapel, theatre, salon, bistro, fitness room and much more. We would love the opportunity to tell you more about our beautiful community.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care 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 the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

For Many, Community Living Offers a Healthier Lifestyle

There are many studies that suggest seniors are healthier when they stay socially connected and feel engaged with life.  Researchers have found that older people without such connections are more apt to “experience greater numbers of chronic and life-limiting health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.”  In an article published by the New England Journal of Medicine, it reports that social interactions can also protect seniors’ cognitive skills. 

As seniors age, it often becomes harder to stay connected to the community and many older adults end up living fairly isolated from the outside world.  A number of factors contribute to the problem including health issues that limit mobility, no longer driving, and the loss of a spouse and other family members and friends. 

Furthermore, good nutrition can be a problem for seniors living alone as it may be difficult for them to prepare meals or to even buy groceries.  Some seniors have even been found to be suffering from malnutrition.  Physical safety can also be a problem as the elderly are more prone to falls due to common medical conditions that effect balance and physical strength including diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.  In addition, seniors living alone may not be as quick to recognize a health issue needs immediate medical attention. 

For the area’s finest independent and assisted living, Reno area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Sparks.  Participating in a range of activities is just a way of life at our beautiful community as we offer a full calendar of fun and stimulating activities every day.  Our residents enjoy nutritional meals served restaurant style that offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy both the meal and to socially interact with others.  We also provide scheduled transportation for residents along with special outings to local places of interest and entertainment. Please see our website to learn more.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Source: whereyoulivematters.org/community-living-its-healthier/

Even with Excessive Hand Washing, You Can Keep Your Skin Healthy

People with skin conditions such a eczema and psoriasis as well as those with very dry skin may be exacerbating the problem with the excessive hand washing and hand sanitizers we are using to help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.  To provide some relief, the Medical News Today provides useful information from several experts including Dr. Zainab Laftah, consultant dermatologist and a spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, on how to avoid or treat some of these issues.  

Dr. Laftah starts by explaining that, “Repetitive use of hand sanitizers and hand washing can strip the proteins in the epidermis (top skin layer), leading to a compromise of the skin barrier and, therefore, the risk of infection. Additionally, soaps can give rise to irritant hand dermatitis, which presents as dry, flaky, itchy red skin, particularly in the finger web spaces and on the knuckles.” 

For those with preexisting skin conditions, she recommends using a moisturizer daily and to try a moisturizing hand soap with antibacterial ingredients such as chlorhexidine or benzalkronium chloride.  However please know that recent studies have found “hand sanitizers containing these biocidal ingredients were less effective than alcohol-based hand gels at eradicating the coronavirus.”
In addition to moisturizing or applying emollients repeatedly throughout the day, be sure to dry your hands thoroughly every time you wash them.  This helps prevent germs from transferring between moist hands as well as reduces the drying effect water has on our skin’s natural oils.  Dr. Laftah adds that “moisturizer that lathers can act as a soap substitute and will be less drying on the hands; therefore, those with cracked skin may find this more soothing.”

Other tips include moisturizing right before bed and then putting on cotton gloves to help lock in moisture.  Also when using cleaning products or if your hands will be in water for a period of time such as washing dishes, wear latex or rubber gloves.

For unsurpassed senior living in Santa Fe, trust the MorningStar of Santa Fe assisted living and memory care community, which offers compassionate 24/7 care services as well as a full complement of resort-style amenities.  Also please know that during the coronavirus outbreak, we are staying abreast of any updates and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all those beneath our roof.  

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 visit our website or to give us a call for more information on the finest assisted living in Santa Fe, NM.

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hand-washing-advice-for-people-with-skin-conditions#Immunosuppressants

Seniors and Nutrition

Unfortunately, many seniors do not eat well and are at risk for poor nutrition and even malnutrition, which is often misdiagnosed as a disease or illness. In fact the A Place for Mom website states “Malnutrition is seen in varying degrees in the elderly, along with varying vitamin deficiencies.”
There are a number of reasons seniors do not eat well including physiological changes such as a decrease in basal metabolic rate and physical activity that reduces caloric needs.  In addition, older adults experience changes in kidney function and a redistribution of body composition, gastrointestinal issues, dental problems and a change in taste and smell.

All this can depress appetite which means the foods elderly adults do eat is more important than ever.  The National Institute of Health (NIH) states that “a good diet in your later years reduces your risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart diseases and certain cancers. As you age, you might need less energy. But you still need just as many of the nutrients in food.”  They recommend elderly adults avoid foods high in empty calories such as cookies, soda, potato chips and alcohol and instead concentrate on a diet of nutrient-rich foods low in saturated and trans fats as well as cholesterol.     
Not only does a nutritional diet help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, bone loss, type II diabetes, and some cancers, it can help people to better manage those diseases.  A healthy diet can also give seniors more energy and lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, not only agrees that a good diet is important for seniors but we practice it every day.  Our residents dine on three healthy, delicious daily meals served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room and prepared by our Executive Chef.  We encourage you to contact us to learn more about our resort-style amenities and loving, caring staff.   

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

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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 our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers Services to Meet Your Every Need

Phoenix assisted living at MorningStar at Arcadia is just the place for those who require a little assistance with their daily personal care and wish to live in a community with a home-like atmosphere.   You will find a wealth of amenities such as delicious, nutritional meals as well as an on-site bistro, theatre, library (including a computer), salon, general store and much more.  Every day our residents are treated to a choice of daily activities that include outings, games, arts and crafts, social hours, movie nights, and a variety of physical activities to name but a few.  

In addition, we provide a wide range of professional clinical services to meet your health needs like having a full-time licensed nurse on staff and 24-hour Care Managers.  Each shift also has a CPR trained staff member. We have Certified Med Care Managers and each resident has their care plan reviewed periodically as well as scheduled health and wellness evaluations. 

The MorningStar community offers the convenience of pharmacy services and onsite dental and podiatry services.  Furthermore, we partner with home health agencies to provide our residents with nursing, therapy, and social work services if needed.  As a resident, you will have a choice of physicians and receive scheduled visits. We also provide diabetic management, oxygen administration, and catheter and colostomy care as well as palliative and hospice care and much more.      

All of our resident-centered clinical assistance is done through the full authority of our license from the Department of Health with the goal of providing each resident with a higher quality of care at a lower cost.  Please visit our website for more information about the extensive services provided to MorningStar residents. 

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted 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 our exceptional community.

MorningStar at Arcadia Offers Support to Both Residents and Families

MorningStar at Arcadia understands you may feel guilty about moving your spouse or parent into assisted living.  If you are the adult child of the senior, you may worry you have let them down by not having them move in with you even though you know your other commitments make it impractical.  Or you may already be the caregiver and realize the job is becoming too big to continue caring for your loved one properly at home. 

If any of this sounds familiar, you need to know you are not alone.  At MorningStar we understand the mixed-emotions that come with such a big lifestyle change.   However just as we are committed to caring for our residents, the MorningStar of Arcadia staff is there to offer support for the families of our residents. 

Also, when your parent makes their home with us, we are not replacing you in their life, but rather are providing the specialized care they need.  In fact, we think by letting us handle all of the caregiver duties, it frees you up to enjoy the time you do spend with your loved one and to start relaxing together and sharing memories or a laugh.     

Our experience has taught us it is best to introduce the idea of assisted living to your parent or spouse during a time and place when everyone is gathered and feeling relaxed.  Remember a decision does not have to be made all at once but typically it is better to let it come in stages.  Sometimes a family worries they may get resistance to the idea but are surprised to find it is something the person has been thinking about for some time.    

Ultimately the decision should be a consensus among family members as well as the senior.  If you have questions or want to talk to someone about it, the MorningStar staff is here for you.  Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living Phoenix has to offer. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care 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 the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Foods that Can Help Boost Your Immunity

Right now we are all looking for ways to help keep our families healthy.  In addition to practicing social distancing and washing our hands, experts remind us that eating healthy is more important than ever as it provides our bodies with the key nutrients that boost our immune systems.  This is important as a strong immune system defends us against the viruses that cause colds and flus. 
Foods that are vital to maintaining a healthy immune system include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  One vegetable especially nutrient-rich, readily available, and easy to cook is broccoli. It contains vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as “sulfur compounds that research suggests may boost production of glutathione, an antioxidant compound. In terms of immune support, glutathione works by attacking free radicals to minimize their potential damage.”

Another good source of vitamin C, which plays a role in keeping our immune systems healthy, is fortified orange juice and just one cup gives us 100% of our required daily dose. Fortified OJ also has vitamin D as do eggs cheese, tofu and mushrooms that help make us more resistant to illnesses.  Beans, nuts cereal and seafood all contain zinc which research has found may shorten the duration of the common cold. Other foods high in nutrients include spinach, salmon, lean beef, and yogurt. 

At Santa Fe’s top senior living community, MorningStar of Santa Fe, we provide a 5-star dining service to our residents that starts with meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients.  We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.”  These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Our team is dedicated to providing residents a safe, comfort environment where they can safely enjoy their well-deserved retirement years.  Also during the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), MorningStar could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. 

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 regarding the finest senior living in Santa Fe, NM.  
Source:
allrecipes.com/article/foods-that-boost-immune-system/?utm_medium=browser&utm_source=allrecipes.com&utm_content=20200322&utm_campaign=498042

Can Physical Activity Help Your Brain?

Decreases in brain metabolism have been shown to be a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease and predictive of cognitive decline and the conversion to Alzheimer’s in older adults. Scientists believe that physical activity can modulate brain glucose metabolism but until now it was unclear what level of intensity and duration of exercise was most beneficial. 

The National Institute on Aging published an article that found “even moderate physical activity may increase metabolism in brain regions important for learning and memory.”   The NIA-supported study was led by Dr. Ozioma Okonkwo of the University of Wisconsin. 

Researchers had cognitively normal, late-middle age (average age 64 years old) participants wear an accelerometer for 7 consecutive days to measure their daily physical activity.  Afterward, they looked at the amount of time each participant engaged in “light (e.g., a slow walk), moderate (e.g., a fast walk), and vigorous activities (e.g., run).”  The data was analyzed to determine how they “corresponded with glucose metabolism within brain areas that have been demonstrated to be impacted in people with Alzheimer’s.”

Increasing the levels of moderate physical activity showed an increase in cerebral glucose metabolism across all brain regions examined.  Participants that engaged in light physical activity had no changes to the metabolism in any of the brain regions examined.  Another thing that impacted the amount of brain glucose metabolism was the duration of time spent in moderate physical activity.  Researchers found that the more time a person spent doing moderate levels of physical activity (average 43.3 min/day to average 68.1 min/day), the greater the increase in brain glucose metabolism.

The NIA says it is encouraging evidence that physical activity may be beneficial for neurometabolic function.  Moreover, they say it is a “critical contribution to the efforts to identify the intensity and duration of physical activity that confer the most advantage for combating Alzheimer’s-related changes in mid-life.”

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. We encourage you to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Reno-Sparks has to offer.

Source:nia.nih.gov/news/moderate-physical-activity-linked-increases-metabolism-across-brain-regions