Social Activities Can Give More Meaning to Your Life

The National Institute on Aging explains that while eating healthy and exercising is important for seniors, socializing and participating in activities you enjoy can be just as beneficial. Being lonely or feeling isolated is not good for our health and well-being; and can lead to depression or anxiety, neither of which is good for our health.

Taking part in social activities can increase a person’s sense of purpose and give more meaning to their life. Whether it is starting a new hobby, renewing an old interest, or making the effort to spend more time with family or friends, being social and having an active lifestyle can benefit the mind, body and spirit.

The NIA reports on various studies that find seniors who participate in hobbies and other social activities may lower their risk for developing some health problems “including dementia, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.” A longer lifespan is linked to those who say they are satisfied with life; and other studies show staying physically active and having purpose appears to keep seniors happier and less depressed.

Experts say when seniors are happier; they are more resilient and better able to cope with life’s various challenges. More research suggests seniors who routinely participate in physical or mental activities may have fewer memory problems; while other data finds creative activities such as dancing or listening to music may help with memory problems or dementia.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, residents enjoy participating in our many activities and wellness programs. We have something for everyone and our calendar includes activities to mentally, physically, socially and spiritually stimulate and engage. We also encourage residents to tap into their unique talents and experiences to lead special interest clubs themselves.

Located on the city’s west side with mountain views, we offer 56 private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans and configurations. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we provide compassionate, all-inclusive services. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s senior living in Santa Fe, NM and to schedule a tour to experience our beautiful community firsthand.

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 for more information about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Learn More About Memory Care Communities

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, families must face the question of what the future will hold. For many a specifically designed memory care community will be the answer as it offers an environment focused on improving quality of life and keeping the resident safe. 

A Place for Mom, a senior living referral website and information service, explains dementia care, also called memory care, is different from other senior care communities and features services such as 24-hour care, trained staff, memory-enhancing therapies, physical layouts that reduce confusion, a secure environment, and more. Moreover, as Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, a memory care home is equipped to care for a person from the onset to the most advanced stages.

Many of the behaviors and symptoms that develop as the disease progresses such as disorientation, confusion and aggression can be difficult for families to handle on their own. At memory care communities, the staff is experienced in managing these types of behaviors and uses specialized techniques to calm or stimulate as situations call for. In addition, a move to a memory community can reduce stress for family caregivers as caring for a loved one with dementia is often a full-time job and family members generally have other responsibilities.    

Another benefit of memory care homes is the controlled environment which helps reduce confusion and disorientation for residents with proper lightening, clearly marked hallways, and a décor to encourage calmness and familiarity. Also, outside doors are locked to prevent wandering, allowing the inside atmosphere to safely encourage independence.      

MorningStar of Santa Fe is honored to offer this type of comprehensive memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood. We provide support to our residents and their families with the kind of services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky and uses a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques. Contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Santa Fe, 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Source: aplaceformom.com/alzheimers-care

Medications That May Increase the Risk of a Fall

The Harvard Medical School reports it is estimated 1 in 3 people over age 65 will fall each year and every 19 minutes a senior dies from a fall-related injury. Statistics show women are at higher risk for a fall but men are more likely to die from their injuries than women. 

Seniors should be aware of several things that can affect balance and lead to a fall. These include certain medications, inner ear problems, foot pain, weight changes and a vitamin D deficiency. Anti-hypertensive medications prescribed to keep blood pressure under control or decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure are all known to affect balance. A common side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a condition that happens if blood pressure gets too low; and results in lightheadedness, faintness and dizziness especially when the person attempts to stand from a sitting or lying down position. 

Medications that suppress the central nervous system may also result in a fall as they reduce alertness, and slow reactions and movements. Some of these types of drugs include anti-anxiety medications like diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). Additionally, antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are used in over-the-counter sleep aids like Nyquil and Sominex, or combined with acetaminophen in products like Tylenol PM.  

If you or a loved one takes medication to treat an overactive bladder or tricyclic antidepressants to help lessen chronic pain, they too can affect a person’s balance. Other drugs that increase the risk of a fall are opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our assisted living lets seniors comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, resort-style amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we provide comprehensive memory care. For trusted senior housing Santa Fe seniors and their families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Santa Fe, NM offers.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/preventing-falls

Strategies for Communicating with a Loved One Suffering from Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease 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 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.  

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our goal is to be the best senior living Phoenix offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Please visit our website for more information.  

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 for more information about the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer.

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

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Albuquerque

If you are a senior or have a parent or other loved one that needs more daily help to ensure their safety and wellbeing, it may be time to consider senior living communities offering assisted living.  When you begin your search, please add MorningStar of Albuquerque to the top of your list.  Our beautiful community is located on the city’s northeast side and is ideally situated for mountain views.

Too often seniors worry that moving into assisted living will result in a loss of independence and freedom.  They are afraid that assisted living communities are cold, institutional places that feel more like a hospital or nursing home. Moreover, many mistakenly believe it will mean a loss of privacy and the ability to make their own decisions. At MorningStar of Albuquerque, this could not be further from the truth. 

What sets MorningStar apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer?  Along with spacious private suites in a range of configurations and floor plans, a whole host of resort-style amenities, and 5-Star dining, our community also provides care services that help our assisted living residents maintain their sense of independence and dignity.  

As we define health and well-being holistically and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit, we believe it makes MorningStar a destination for successful aging.  In addition, we have a staff that feels it is a privilege to serve seniors and believes in our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They also support our mission statement that honors God in our business practices and relationships and values all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals.  

In fact, our goal is to provide a true home for our residents by creating a MorningStar family that includes residents and their families as well as our team members.  In addition to our 48 suites for assisted living, our community has 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

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 offers.

Are You Looking for Senior Living in Phoenix?

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior communities in Phoenix, you know there are many options. This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care. If you are a senior who needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living your life to the fullest. In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more. They also provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of programming, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care. The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we offer all of that and more. We define health and well-being holistically and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Our beautiful community has 80 private assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted senior living Phoenix families can count on, contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix offers. 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 beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

A Holistic View of Health at MorningStar of Albuquerque

For exceptional assisted living, Albuquerque, NM seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Albuquerque, a true destination for successful aging. By defining health and well-being holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit. Together our Life Enrichment programs and Wellness Care services complement one another to ensure each resident gets the best care.

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health. These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.

We are also proud that our assisted living residents’ benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand. It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.

Our broad memory care services include 5 levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director. Residents have 24-hour care managers; a CPR trained staff member on every shift and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7. MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.

To address specific health needs, we offer mechanical lift assistance, oxygen administration, and diabetic management. Furthermore, we provide transportation to medical appointments as well as pharmacy services, onsite dental and podiatry services and more.

Please contact us for information on pricing and availability or to set up a tour. Our community includes 48 stylish suites for assisted living and another 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

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 memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

The Cause and Risk Factors for Shingles

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone the chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a wash cloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

MorningStar at Arcadia is a true home where residents can comfortably and safely age in place. We have 80 suites for assisted living and 30 secure suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website to learn more about our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, and care services.     

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 for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Santa Fe

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides 29 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 Santa Fe, 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 the world of their loved ones.  For trusted senior living Santa Fe, NM families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

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 senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

Comprehensive Care Services at MorningStar of Albuquerque

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s assisted living is designed to support and engage residents’ mind, body and spirit. Our wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life.  

In fact MorningStar’s comprehensive care services can help extend the stay of a resident if their health changes and they require more care. Furthermore, our dedicated team has experience finding creative solutions that yield a higher quality of care for our residents at a lower cost to their families. 

Along with 24/7 Care Managers, Certified Medication Care Managers, CPR-trained staff on every shift and access to licensed nurses; we assist residents with obtaining a wide range of therapeutic and medical services from third-party providers. Individualized service plans may include things like mechanical lift assistance, weights and vital monitoring, diabetic management, oxygen administration, and palliative/hospice care. We also offer pharmacy services to keep your prescriptions filled and medications dispersed as needed. Other services include transportation to medical appointments, scheduled physician visits, and specialty medical and dental care.

We are located on the northeast side of town with mountain views and offer 48 assisted living suites with a selection of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. For your comfort and convenience, amenities include a full salon, bistro, fitness room, fireside patios and more. In its own wing, our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

We like to say that MorningStar’s assisted living provides seniors “a little help from friends” to live life on their own terms. Our community offers carefree retirement years with the chance to meet new friends and try new hobbies and explore new interests. Please contact us for more information.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.  

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.

Learn More About MorningStar and Our Sparks, NV Community

MorningStar of Sparks is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company whose vision is “to be a company of servant-minded, purpose-driven leaders in our senior communities and throughout the world.” This means right from the start we have made a point to staff our loving homes with individuals who feel called to serve and understand that seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

In addition, we support MorningStar’s mission of serving others here at home and throughout the world including supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and the Casa Bernabé orphanage in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We also support MorningStar’s partnership with “Lifewater,” a non-profit organization that focuses on delivering safe water sources to villages across the globe.

MorningStar of Sparks is also guided by our company’s founding principles that include:

• Honoring God in our business practices and relationships

• Valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals

• Investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well

Thus our home’s first priority is to create a comfortable, compassionate home while striving to meet residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. Also, while our company was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews, and understand it is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person.

MorningStar of Sparks has 128 stylish independent living suites, with a variety of one- and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, we have 80 assisted living suites for those needing help with the activities of daily living. Within the Reflections Neighborhood 32 secure suites are devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.

Our community is filled with spacious, beautifully appointed common areas both inside and out and include a fireside patio and all-season porches, general store. salon, theater, bistro and fitness room. Residents enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining inspired by our Executive Chef that features the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other seniors living in Sparks, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Sparks represents the very best in independent living, assisted living and memory care. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please contact us for more information about outstanding senior living in Sparks, NV.

MorningStar of Sparks Offers Memory Care

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we not only provide independent and assisted living but also experienced memory care.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 secure memory care suites dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   MorningStar’s compassionate team expertly provides the care your loved one requires for their utmost comfort, wellness and safety.  

Our holistic approach to memory care is done through our program we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  

All of our employees, regardless of their position, will receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents.  The eight hours of training include the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.  

Through Lavender Sky, our caregivers thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the “purple world” of dementia as they cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us. By exploring each of our residents’ life stories including their history and preferences, we create an individualized care plan. We also involve and engage family members in how to follow our lead.

Please visit our website for more information regarding experienced, compassionate memory care.  While many senior living communities may offer memory care, we consider it our calling to care for our very special residents.  At MorningStar of Sparks, we do not consider serving our memory care residents to be depressing but rather offer hope to families as we strive to find ways to elevate and celebrate each resident’s life. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Sparks represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About MorningStar’s Community in Phoenix

MorningStar at Arcadia’s goal is to provide the best memory care and assisted living Phoenix offers. We attribute our success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership. To help us accomplish these lofty goals, we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts and a true love for seniors. 

Our founding principles are based on “casting a new light” on senior living and treating each resident with the utmost respect and dignity. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and contribute is ageless; and we act upon this truth daily as we care for, inspire and love the residents under our roof. At MorningStar we want seniors to recognize they are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream.

We take great pride in a reputation for excellence and authenticity in both how we serve and why we serve throughout our MorningStar senior living communities across the Western U.S. Specializing in compassionate care delivered by our distinguished team and guided by our proprietary program “Radiance,” we know the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing with others our talents, time and energy. 

As people are living longer than any other time in history (by 2055 90 million Americans will be 55+ and the number of people 75 to 85 is set to triple), senior living is quickly becoming a popular option for older adults. Residents appreciate predictable budgeting, resort-style amenities and services, companionship and a home where they can safely age in place.

Seniors’ wellbeing, comfort and safety are something MorningStar at Arcadia takes very seriously.  Our beautiful community has 80 stylish assisted living suites as well as 30 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us today to see how we can help support you or a loved one.  

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

 

     

Does a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Need More Care?

A Place for Mom’s website offers some advice to families regarding the need for memory care for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. They explain early-on in the disease, many individuals are capable of living independently with family members overseeing some of their care. However, they also warn symptoms can vary from day to day and it can be difficult to know exactly when a person requires more supervision for their safety and wellbeing. 

Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says when speaking to families, he centers the conversation regarding additional care for their loved one on the “ability to perform activities of daily living and safety.” ADLs include things like dressing, bathing, eating and toileting. 

Other questions doctors may ask to evaluate a person’s ability to live on their own include: is he or she having trouble finding their way back home from familiar neighborhood routes? Are they forgetting to eat or drink and take medications? Is the person’s safety at risk? Have they left the stove on, have unexplained bruises, or had several falls recently?

Medical experts say it is important to let the person’s healthcare providers know as soon as you suspect a problem. They can do tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing the confusion or memory loss; and take a look at the person’s medications to see if they are the problem. Also, if a diagnosis is made early-on, the person has the chance to weigh-in regarding care options down the road. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque has 21 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation.  Each day is filled with activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, or animals to heal and comfort residents.  For trusted memory care or assisted living Albuquerque, NM seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar retirement communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Albuquerque has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

Learn More About Memory Care Communities

If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, you may be looking for assisted 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 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 address 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 that 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 at Arcadia’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents the finest memory care and assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

A Comforting Gift for a Loved One with Dementia

If mom or dad or another loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, we have a gift idea sure to bring a smile to their face. Robotic pets are soothing companions to those in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s; and a proven resource for providing a means for social interactions as well as stirring memories of when they felt useful. Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease reports “robots helped decrease stress and anxiety and also caused a reduction in the use of psychoactive medications and pain medications for patients with dementia.”

A robotic pet allows a person to feel like they are providing care for someone – not always on the receiving end of it. However, dementia experts caution the “pet” should be introduced slowly to the person so as not to overwhelm them with feelings of too much responsibility. The Alzheimer’s Association explains it is best to introduce pet or doll therapy in a controlled atmosphere. They add when you let the person take responsibility rather than giving them the doll to play with, it can bring structure to their lives. Experts say people not verbalizing anymore may start to initiate speech as it is natural to murmur comforting words. 

A robotic pet can also be a distraction when the person is starting to get agitated or upset and encourages hugs and kisses. Many of the robotic dogs or cats on the market are loaded with realistic actions including barking or purring and tail wagging, and some even respond to the person’s motions, voice and touch. 

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our mission is to provide the best senior living Albuquerque, NM offers, which includes specialized care for those suffering from memory impairment.  We support both residents and their families by providing the services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our unique philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky; and we use a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques to walk alongside residents during this unexpected, difficult journey. Please visit our website for contact information. 

MorningStar Retirement communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest senior living Albuquerque has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

Source: medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-therapy-pets-alzheimer-patients-nowbut.html