Late-Day Behavior Changes in People With Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association explains, “sundowner’s syndrome” or “sundowning” is a set of symptoms or behaviors that are found in some people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The syndrome’s symptoms include agitation and anxiety, and it occurs in the later part of the day and evening with marked behavior changes in the person.

Fred Kobylarz, MD, co-director of the Center for Healthy Aging at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School says it is not a disease, but rather a symptom of dementia. While doctors do not know the cause of sundowning, they believe it may be a “combination of hormonal changes, brain deterioration or damage that has occurred, environmental factors, disruption to a person's circadian rhythm, and more.”

The syndrome may start as early as 1 p.m. in some people but usually it is later in the day. Along with agitation and anxiety; symptoms can include things like pacing, disorientation, hallucinations and problems sleeping. Other behavior changes may include angry outbursts and aggressive, sometimes even physical altercations. Others just want to be closer to a person they trust as needed reassurance. Some people do not remember what happened earlier in the day and even forget they just ate dinner and want to eat again.

Experts say in some cases sundowning starts before a person has had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. However, it is not only found in people with dementia as some older adults exhibit symptoms during an illness or period of delirium.

Doctors recommend families who see symptoms of sundowning to consult with their healthcare provider to rule out other causes. Guidelines for managing the syndrome include setting up a schedule that adheres to their needs and maintaining a consistent daily routine to reduce confusion and fatigue. During morning hours encourage the person to do activities that increase their exposure to natural light to help support better sleep-wake cycles. Avoid over stimulating the person in the evenings and don’t subject them to crowds, bright screens or loud noises.

Along with assisted living, Albuquerque’s MorningStar community offers 21 suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to enhance our residents’ freedom and fully accommodate the disposition and behaviors of those with dementia. Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in meaningful wellness programs and purposeful activities. Our programs include a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. Please visit our website for more information about senior living communities MorningStar of Albuquerque and our holistic approach to memory care.

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 to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Source: womenshealthmag.com/health/a63084354/sundowning-dementia-sign/

VA Benefits for Assisted Living Care

Residents of the MorningStar Senior Living communities include veterans from all branches of the military and we are honored to serve them. Words fail us when we hear their stories of courage and self-sacrifice—all in the name of Country and Honor and Duty.

When we meet a potential resident who is a veteran or a surviving spouse of a vet, and in need of assisted living; we are pleased to direct them to a “Financial Concierge.” These financial services experts have the knowledge to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance,” which is a benefit offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Aid & Attendance benefits are a tax-free pension paid directly to a qualified veteran or their spouse in the form of monthly payments, which are subject to change annually.

The National Care Planning Council estimates up to 25% of seniors could potentially apply for Aid & Attendance. These benefits can be used toward care in an assisted living community such as MorningStar of Albuquerque. Check our website as we have a whole page explaining the benefit, a quick 5-minute test to see if you qualify, and our contact number for more answers and information.

MorningStar of Albuquerque has 48 well-designed suites for assisted living and another 21 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all-day in our full-service dining room, luxury amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship. If you think you would like to hear more about MorningStar’s senior living in Albuquerque, NM, please contact us. We would love to set up a tour so you can see all we have to offer.

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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living communities Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Digestive Health

The last several years have brought probiotics and prebiotics into the spotlight. However, it can be confusing as to what the difference is between the two and the role they play in our bodies. Experts say both are important to our health; probiotics are beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics are food for these bacteria.

In other words, “Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain foods or supplements and can provide numerous health benefits. Prebiotics are substances from types of carbs (mostly fiber) that humans can’t digest. The beneficial bacteria in your gut eat this fiber.”

The Harvard Medical School explains that our large intestine has 100 trillion good bacteria essential to our health called microbiome. These good microbes help maintain healthy bowel function. Each person has their own unique microbiome from birth and we add to the good microbes by the food we consume. However, a diet high in sugar and fat can negatively affect gut health by encouraging the growth of bad bacteria, allowing them to grow faster and colonize more easily, without as many helpful bacteria to prevent it from happening.

Research shows certain foods like yogurt and kefirs with live, active cultures are beneficial to adding to our microbiome. Unpasteurized, fermented foods like kombucha, miso, sauerkraut and sour pickles contain healthy microbes but most packaged fermented foods are pasteurized, which destroys the microbes. The best way to get around that is to learn to ferment foods at home.

Experts say while there are many probiotic supplements on the market, it is not easy to find exactly what you need. Most probiotic supplements contain just a few bacterial strains, compared to the many stains naturally found in the gut. “Although there are many claims made by probiotic products, there’s now reliable, evidence-based support that certain probiotics — like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium (bacteria), and Saccharomyces boulardii (yeast) — are generally safe and helpful in specific conditions.”

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our beautiful retirement communities are meticulously designed with welcoming common areas, spacious suites and all the comforts of home. Our community includes 48 assisted living suites as well as 21 memory care suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us for more information about our outstanding senior apartments in Albuquerque, NM and all the services, amenities and programs we offer residents.

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 Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Sources:
healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-and-prebiotics
healthline.com/health/probiotics-and-digestive-health/how-long-does-it-take-for-probiotics-to-work#choosing-a-probiotic

Fun Activities That Stimulate Your Mind

As we age, many of us find ourselves more absent-minded and forgetful than we were in our younger years. Seeing someone unexpectedly from our past can result in recognizing the face but being unable to bring a name to mind. Experts say some lapses in memory are common as we age but encourage seniors to do cognitive activities to help stay sharp.

Brain games exercise your memory, attention, brain speed, people skills, intelligence and navigation just like a trip to the gym gives you a cardio workout and exercises your abs and quads. One good resource for such games is the AARP online site. It offers a variety of fun and entertaining games and puzzles such as daily crosswords, word games like scrabble, Sudoku and trivia as well as the opportunity to join a bridge, chess or backgammon game.

The New York Times offers the daily World puzzle that gives your brain a quick workout along with several other word puzzles for Times’ subscription holders. Other programs offering brain games targeted at older adults can be accessed online for a monthly or yearly fee. In addition to the Internet, if you have an iPad or tablet, you can find challenging brain game apps.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, assisted living our vibrant community offers seniors a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Residents are treated to best-in-class meals, luxury amenities and a wide array of wellness programs and activities providing companionship with like-minded adults of a similar age. A look at our monthly calendar shows activities such as word and card games, Rummikub and trivia to keep the brain sharp while having fun.

Activities not only offer opportunities for challenging your cognitive skills but meeting and socializing with friends while enjoying a good laugh together. Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes in Albuquerque, NM.

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 senior apartments Albuquerque, NM has to offer. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

 

Physical Therapy Can Help Reduce Pain and Restore Mobility

Physical therapy is used to help people regain physical function and movement from conditions that affect muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a Physical Therapist (PT) when pain medications are no longer working and you still feel pain; or if you have had surgery and need help with healing.

A PT creates a personalized treatment plan for a patient that is designed to reduce pain as well as manage an injury, surgery or chronic illness. The plan utilizes exercises and manual therapy that speeds up healing and recovery which allows the patient to regain function and an improved quality of life.

Like visiting any doctor, it is helpful for you as the patient to think about how your condition affects your daily life and what you hope to get out of your physical therapy sessions before your first appointment. Experts say being prepared not only helps you get more benefit from therapy but can assist your therapist in establishing a treatment plan based on realistic expectations.

After a physical assessment of your strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination; the PT will explain your condition and treatment plan. Part of your treatment will include exercise and other techniques you can do at home.

MorningStar of Albuquerque is a contemporary 55+ community offering assisted living and memory care. Residents enjoy a beautiful atmosphere with relaxing common spaces throughout including a living room, bistro, fitness center, theater/chapel, fireside patios and more.

Along with a wide range of exercise classes and activities, MorningStar partners with EmpowerMe Wellness, a leader in providing therapy services to senior communities, to help residents maintain their independence as long as possible. Residents have onsite access to wellness programs and personal training as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Contact us to set up an in-person tour to see firsthand our luxury 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 to learn more about the finest assisted living Albuquerque, NM offers.

Loneliness Presents Risks to Both Physical and Mental Health

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, explains loneliness may be more detrimental to our overall health than smoking, obesity and alcoholism, or leading a sedentary lifestyle. The study was conducted by the Regenstrief Institute data informatics firm and the Indiana University School of Medicine. What is even more concerning is their research found a majority of those surveyed (53 percent) considered themselves lonely.

The researchers call loneliness a "biophysical stressor," and say they hope more attention to this problem will motivate doctors to address this often-overlooked lifestyle factor that negatively impacts seniors’ quality of life. One of the study authors, IU research scientist and professor Monica Williams-Farrelly, said, "So in the same way that we ask older adults: 'Do you smoke? Or do you measure your blood sugar?' We should be inquiring about and measuring loneliness and offering solutions."

Researchers say participants who identified as being lonely experienced lower mental and physical health outcomes across both demographics and health conditions. Moreover, they say while there may be a connection between those who report feeling lonely to poor eating habits, overindulging in alcohol or not exercising; there still exists a strong database showing loneliness strongly influences our health and well-being. In fact, the recommendation from the study’s authors is to stress the fact that loneliness should be treated as a serious health factor by our communities as well as by medical professionals.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our vibrant community offers comfort, well-being and companionship with senior care services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and a calendar full of activities. For assisted living residents, we have private, spacious suites available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides memory care suites specifically designed to elevate life for those living with a diagnosis of dementia. Contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior apartments 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Strength Training Benefits for Older Adults

Research shows our bodies start losing muscle mass after the age of 35. The process quickens once females turn 65 years and males turn 70. However, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says strength training not only helps us maintain muscle mass and bone density longer but improves mobility and overall functional independence as well as reduces the risk of falls. It is a safe and effective way to ward off age-related decline and increase one’s healthy years.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week and at least two days of strength training. While you may think you don’t have time to go to a gym to workout, experts say many strength training exercises can be done at home using your own body weight, resistance bands and light weights. For adults dealing with obesity, better weight loss results can be achieved with a combination of strength training, aerobic exercises and dietary changes.

Before adding any new exercises to your daily routine, it is important to consult with your healthcare providers. Experts say to always start slow and gradually build up to more repetitions. It is important to breathe as the exercise progresses as holding your breath can raise blood pressure. Keep movements slow and controlled, and rest between exercises. Many exercises can even be done in a chair.

Another tip for seniors is to add daily stretching as it can aid in healthy aging and enhance quality of life. Along with stretching exercises, experts recommend endurance exercises such as a brisk walk or dancing and balance exercises such as Tai Chi and yoga.

MorningStar of Albuquerque has 48 private assisted living suites and another 21 suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior apartments in Albuquerque.

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 Albuquerque, NM has to offer.