Helping a Loved One Downsize for a Move to Assisted Living

If your mom or dad has reached the time in their life where they need help with daily personal care activities, moving into an assisted living community 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 parents see treasures and memories. Begin by creating a list of things your parents 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 start sorting by keeping, tossing, or donating piles. In addition, rather than always asking your parents what they want to keep or get rid of, pare 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 realistically 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 parents are moving into a community such as MorningStar of Albuquerque, they will be treated to meals created by our Executive Chef served in our full-service dining room. Also, for residents’ safety, our well-designed suites are equipped with a handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Couples are Welcome at MorningStar of Albuquerque

When a couple’s health experiences are different, and one is healthier than the other, that person may assume the role of caregiver. As time evolves, the needs of the chronically ill spouse may become more complex and require daily care. This can be difficult for the healthier spouse, and even impact his/her own health and well-being.

To ensure both parties have an opportunity for the best quality of life; an assisted living community may be the answer. While leaving a family home and transitioning to community life is a big change, the transition is easier for the person with a spouse or partner by their side. Marissa Kirby, NHA, CHC, CHPC, and vice president of compliance at NEWGEN HEALTH, LLC, explains, “In many cases, particularly when a couple has been married for many years, the ability to live together can make or break their decision on whether or not to move to an assisted living facilities.”

Many assisted living communities like MorningStar of Albuquerque welcome couples; where we not only expertly and compassionately address the needs of a person living with a chronic illness or disability but also the needs of the healthier spouse. MorningStar’s senior assisted living provides the maintenance-free environment of independent living with the addition of care services for the ADLs (activities of daily living) tailored to the resident. We offer an array of contemporary floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom options. Suites feature high ceilings, large windows, handicapped-accessible bathroom, emergency call system and private climate control. Moreover, MorningStar welcomes your pet.

Senior-friendly activities, resort-style amenities and built-in companionship can be a winning combination for many couples. In addition to assisted living, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted senior apartments Albuquerque seniors can count on, please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/couples-living-together-assisted-living-144938.htm

The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep

One thing we can do to maintain our health as we age is to get a good night’s sleep. Learning to prioritize and manage our sleep is important to good brain health including our cognitive health. However, for far too many older adults, it becomes harder and harder to sleep through the night.

Seniors often believe the myth that they no longer need as much sleep as they did when they were younger; but experts disagree. They say the truth is older adults require the same amount of sleep as their younger counterparts, which is at least 7 hours a night according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Moreover, studies show older adults are typically getting less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep per night. This is the phase when we dream and the brain is active; and is important for memory, learning, mental focus and mood.

Another sleep cycle is the period when the brain purges toxins. AARP writes, “The glymphatic system uses cerebrospinal fluid to flush out toxins and waste products, such as amyloid beta.” Not adequately going through this cycle may accelerate the amount of amyloid beta that builds up and clumps together to form plaques; and lack of this slow-wave sleep may increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Studies also report that lack of sleep can affect our emotions. After all, who has not felt grumpy or sad when they have not gotten enough sleep? Several long-term studies have shown adults who report poor sleep patterns are also more prone to depression. Getting enough quality sleep can even strengthen your immune system.

For the above reasons, it is important to try and improve your sleep quality. If you think stress and anxiety are interfering with your sleep, try mindful practices like keeping a gratitude journal or breathing exercises. Also, make a point to get enough physical exercise each day as that too can help you sleep better.

At MorningStar, our mission is to provide the best senior assisted living in Albuquerque, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents. Located on the popular northeast side of town, MorningStar of Albuquerque is convenient for medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants as well as other services. Our beautiful community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites and 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. To experience our community up close, contact us to schedule a visit.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Source: stayingsharp.aarp.org/articles/sleep-deprivation-loss/

How Assisted Living Helps Seniors Stay Independent

Finding the best community doesn’t have to be complicated. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which senior apartments are the best for your loved one and their needs. While your loved one in need of assisted living may need added help with personal care, they still want to feel independent and self-sufficient. It’s important to find a community that promotes senior independence. Keep reading to understand how MorningStar Senior Living in Nevada helps seniors to stay independent in assisted living

Supporting Daily Routines

Great communities for seniors understand the value of maintaining routines. Seniors feel most like themselves when they are able to stay consistent with their personal habits and schedules. When considering assisted living homes for seniors, look for facilities that include plenty of on-site amenities like hair salons, gyms, outdoor courtyards, movie theatres, and other places to socialize and enjoy the day. These features allow seniors to keep up with their favorite activities without needing to leave the community.

Highly Skilled Staff

Highly skilled and knowledgeable caretakers promote better independence among seniors in assisted living homes. These professionals know how to navigate the changing needs of seniors in care and how to handle emotional challenges or emergencies. Our caretakers at MorningStar want to see seniors be successful and practice independence whenever possible. At MorningStar Senior Living encourages seniors to be their authentic selves.

Social Opportunities

Assisted living communities should encourage residents to explore hobbies, meet new people, and stay active. Communities that offer social events, group games, and craft classes are more likely to help seniors feel productive and engaged throughout the day. This will aid in their overall fulfillment and independence. When seniors have the chance to be creative and active, they experience more confidence in their abilities, which helps to reduce feelings of loneliness or frustration.

Find Your Home at the Best Assisted Living in Nevada

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Senior Apartments in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Sparks “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other assisted living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.

Are You Annoyed by Medical History Forms?

We have all had the experience of sitting in the waiting room of a doctor’s office with a clipboard or tablet loaded with forms ready to be filled out. You may wonder why as you have already filled out similar forms at your other healthcare providers, and maybe even at this office.

Experts say it is good to remember there are several reasons why you are being asked for your medical history again. To start with, your health may have changed. Additionally, not all doctor offices have access to the same digital information; or it may not have been updated. Also, a specialist may be looking for different information not typically collected by your primary care physician. Remember your refusal to answer questions could make it harder for your doctor to see the full picture of your problem; or at the very least make you look uncooperative. Dr. Robert Shmerling, a rheumatologist and senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing, agrees you are not obligated to fill out your medical history but says the response from the practice might be, "How can we provide the best care if you don't provide the information?”

So what is the most important information to include? The Harvard Health Publishing article highlights the most useful things to share with your healthcare provider:

• chronic or new symptoms and conditions
• past surgeries
• family medical history
• insurance information
• current prescription and over-the counter medicines, supplements, vitamins, and any herbal remedies or complementary medicines you use
• medication allergies
• vaccination history
• any screening tests you've had, so they won't be prescribed unnecessarily
• any metal implants you have, which could affect screenings.

If you are worried about giving out so much personal information, remember the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), a federal law, protects your health information with very strict rules about who can access it and how it can be shared.

At MorningStar, we provide senior assisted living in Albuquerque, NM that allows residents to safely and comfortably age in place. Our community has 85 well-designed senior apartments suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/what-another-medical-form-to-fill-out-202404223035

Find the Most Trusted Choice in Senior Living in Sparks, Nevada

Families can feel overwhelmed when looking for assisted living. With so many options for senior living these days, you might be feeling unsure which option is best for your senior loved one. MorningStar of Sparks provides a trusted, transparent, and compassionate solution for families in Reno and Sparks, Nevada. With award-winning care, supportive services, and a deeply rooted sense of community, MorningStar is where peace of mind meets heartfelt connection.

Experience a Transparent and Supportive Approach to Senior Living

Trusted senior living communities understand the emotional weight families carry when deciding on options. At MorningStar, we prioritize honesty and offer our full support through every step of the transition process. With three different senior living options like assisted living, independent living, and memory care, our experienced team is here to guide you to the right choice for you and your loved one.

Award-Winning Assisted Living That Feels Like Home

MorningStar of Sparks offers the finest senior living Sparks families count on. We are proudly recognized with the 2024 Best of Reno People’s Choice Award in the category of Assisted Living. We offer multiple living options, which includes 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 suites for assisted living in smartly-designed, one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has 32 suites devoted entirely to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We offer predictable budgeting, built-in social opportunities, and a modern setting that supports senior independence and safety.

Find Your Home at the Best Assisted Living in Nevada

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Nevada has to offer. MorningStar Retirement Homes in Sparks, Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you.

 
The unique mission statement of MorningStar 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.

Memory Care Communities Provide a Comfortable, Secure Environment

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, at some point, you may require professional help. The number one concern at a memory care community is to ensure the safety of the person as many of the disease’s symptoms place the person more at risk for accidents and other mishaps.

Forgetfulness and confusion are some of the most recognizable signs of Alzheimer’s disease and can cause problems like forgetting to turn off a stove, getting lost in familiar areas or wandering. Other common issues in the early stages of the disease include vision/spatial issues and impaired reasoning and judgment, problem solving and difficulty in completing everyday tasks.

Memory care communities are equipped to provide a safe, stable residential environment for seniors with memory impairment as well as provide meaningful activities to keep the person engaged. At most communities, the staff receives extensive training and information regarding the disease to better treat and understand residents.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we offer a holistic approach to assisted living for the utmost comfort, safety and well-being of the individual. Once a family decides to entrust the care of their loved one to MorningStar, we create a Personalized Service Plan to provide the care, people, programs, and activities they need. Residents receive healthy, specially prepared meals to make eating less stressful along with daily health monitoring, 24/7 care from a well-trained staff, access to licensed nurses and other third-party service providers.

Our Reflections Neighborhood has welcoming common areas and is designed to support residents’ independence as much as possible. To ensure the safety and well-being of residents, our community is completely secure, including an outdoor area. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicapped-accessible bathrooms. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living in Albuquerque, NM.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and senior living Albuquerque, NM offers.