Dining at MorningStar of Albuquerque

A move to senior living can mean a lot of changes for a person. Our job at MorningStar of Albuquerque is to make sure that experience is full of positive changes. One of the things we feel showcases our home is an outstanding food service, which is under the direction of our own Executive Chef.  

As an assisted living resident, you will be treated to a variety of seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible. You will also enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining in our beautifully designed, relaxing dining room. For those times you wish to have an intimate dinner with friends or family, go ahead and reserve our private dining room. 

Our Chef is specifically trained in culinary skills and menu creations that appeal to seniors and knows how to modify recipes to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies as well as changing needs. A variety of nutritional choices allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options.  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. 

Along with five-star dining, other amenities include a massage room, living room with computer, fitness room, and a full-service salon.  We also offer a bistro, as well as a theatre/chapel, fireside patios, and more. And when you need to see your doctor or run an errand, we offer scheduled transportation.  

While under our roof, residents have the opportunity to meet new friends and join a variety of wellness programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social connections.  You will also have a team of dedicated, compassionate caregivers with a felt calling to serve who will go out of their way to meet your needs, even your unexpressed ones.  Please visit our website to learn what sets our community apart from other assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers and why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.  

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 assisted living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Convenient Independent Living in Reno and Sparks Nevada

Did you know that Reno has been voted one of the best places to live in Nevada? Reno and greater Sparks Nevada is known for its eclectic and creative community, great food, and all the exciting things to explore with the safety and convenience of a small town. This makes Reno a great place to retire. MorningStar of Sparks excels in senior living and assisted care for seniors aged 55 and up in East Reno. At MorningStar of Sparks, this senior living community in Nevada offers seniors comfort, elegance, security, and community with an array of amenities, making this the best independent living Reno has to offer.

The independent living community at MorningStar of Sparks is designed for seniors seeking a lifestyle free of the responsibility of private home ownership, but without the need of care services. Along with their 128 independent living suites, MorningStar also offers 80 assisted living suites for those who require some help with daily activities. The options don’t end here, in addition, this memory care facility also prides themselves on 32 suites in a private memory care community named, Reflections. This Neighborhood for seniors struggling with memory loss is devoted to the specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases

MorningStar of Sparks is also a recently renovated senior living community which includes, new furniture and fixtures in the serene library, modern theater, and large lounge areas; complete with fresh paint inside and out. If you want to spend time with family or friends, a new bistro area and wine bar has been designed for the community. Stop by for some wine tasting!

Contact us today if you want to know more of the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and memory care Sparks NV has seen. MorningStar Assisted Living Retirement Homes in Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you 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.

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Sparks, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Nevada. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care East Reno, Nevada has to offer.

Are You Concerned About Your Memory?

Do you feel as if memory problems are interfering with your life or have family members started to notice? Medical experts say there may be a distinction between a person noticing the memory loss and others becoming aware of it as this could signal a bigger problem and be an early sign of dementia.  

The Harvard Medical School explains the best place to start understanding the problem is to talk to your doctor. While they may not have the proper training to do extensive screening for MCI (mild cognitive impairment), they can rule out other things causing your memory loss such as medications you take or a recent head injury. Steps you can take on your own to improve cognitive function include getting enough sleep each night, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

After your own physician has completed an examination, and nothing appears to explain your memory loss, it is time to see a specialist. They, or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter or hospital should be able to recommend a behavioral neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. He or she will probably start with a series of written, on the computer, or oral tests to “assess memory, reasoning, attention, language, visual functions, motor functions, and social functions (such as empathy and knowing how to behave appropriately in social situations).”

They will check for “abnormalities in muscle strength, coordination, reflexes, senses, eye movement, and the pupils' reaction to light, which can signal abnormalities in specific areas of the brain.” In addition, the doctor will check for Parkinson’s, a stroke or tumors, and will probably schedule a hearing and vision test. If indicated, you may have advanced testing such as PET scans or your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers checked for signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque has 21 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our community was designed from the ground up to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers, and all the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

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 Albuquerque has to offer.

Source:  health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/mild-cognitive-impairment

After a Loved One Moves to an Assisted Living Community

Many times, a move to assisted living for an elderly loved one is due to an event such as a recent hospitalization for a fall or a worsening medical condition. This means the person does not have the time to process the move from a beloved home, and the sudden change may be very upsetting. Even for seniors who have had the time to plan a move into assisted living, it may be challenging.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we know the many benefits assisted living communities such as ours afford to residents; but at the same time, we recognize any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly one of those events. In addition to our own experience, experts also offer suggestions to families on how best to support their loved one during the transition.

It may ease the transition for the person to get as familiar as possible with the new community and staff before the move. Also, after a decision is made, let your loved one decide what furniture and keepsakes they want to move with them and help them decorate. If possible, arrange furniture and decorations in a similar way and display photos and other keepsakes to make the new place feel like “home.”

Keep in mind the person may feel abandoned, or frustrated with their perceived loss of independence and decision making, and have a hard time adjusting to a change in their routine. Give the person plenty of support during the first days and weeks at the community, but don’t overdo it. This could actually be counterproductive and prevent a loved one from making an adjustment. Instead, emphasis the move is an opportunity to start a new chapter in their life.

In some cases, seniors make a quick adjustment and recognize the advantage of no longer worrying about their homes’ maintenance or preparing meals. They like the ease of a more robust social life and feel a peace of mind knowing help is around whenever they need it. For others it may take a little more time.

In addition to assisted living, MorningStar at Arcadia offers individualized memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (from a week to a full month) to see if we are a good fit. Please visit our website for information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other senior living in Phoenix.

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Phoenix.

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

Learn More About MorningStar’s WellStar program

Wellness is a holistic strength, a personal responsibility, and a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every dimension of the human experience. At MorningStar of Sparks, seniors are invited to engage in social, educational and entertainment activities, all offered through our signature WellStar program. MorningStar’s community and suite amenities include all-day, restaurant style dining, bistro, massage room, fireside patio, and so much more that truly creates lively and luxurious senior living that is focused on wellness. 

Find exceptional and elevated dining at MorningStar of Sparks. A good diet is the centerpiece of personal wellness, especially as we age. Through proper diets and healthy choices, food is a healing medicine unlike any other. Food is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed in community. Meals on our all-day menu are largely prepared from scratch, just as our residents would have done in years past, with daily and weekly specials as well as a la carte items. Some communities feature full bar service, others, wine and beer selections during happy hour and at meals.

Whether physical, intellectual, spiritual, or social, MorningStar’s Life Enrichment Teams present creative ways to stay active and productive. Tapping their unique talents and experiences, some residents choose to lead special interest clubs themselves. There is always reason to arise confident in the day and the promise it holds. MorningStar Assisted Living encourages engagement with the day through the mind, body, and spirit. Even though we may feel like we know everything in old age, we never stop learning and growing. Experiencing new things, spending time in the community, and meeting new friends is what keeps us young at heart. 

Contact us today if you want to know more of the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and memory care Sparks NV has seen. MorningStar Assisted Living Retirement Homes in Nevada takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you 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. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Sparks, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Nevada. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care East Reno, Nevada has to offer.

Trusted, Holistic Memory Care at MorningStar of Albuquerque

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque, NM’s MorningStar community offers individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 21 memory care suites, and we are equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.

MorningStar of Albuquerque’s holistic memory care is personalized and compassionate supported living under what we call Lavender Sky, which is the way we thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore to find purpose and encouragement in every aspect of daily routine. As dementia care specialists, we deeply understand the disease and know regardless of the extent of memory loss residents deserve to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. All team members are trained in MorningStar’s brand standards of Lavender Sky and in the pathology of dementia and brain disease. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing, dressing and have the tools to calm or stimulate a resident as needed.

The Reflections Neighborhood was designed to provide a secure setting yet permit residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. Residents especially enjoy being outdoors in the enclosed courtyard. We offer a wide selection of meaningful wellness programs as well as purposeful activities including a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, and entertainers.

Mealtimes are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together. Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, we know you want the very best memory care; and we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please visit our website to learn more our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy to caring for seniors.

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 Albuquerque, NM offers.