Old Age Doesn’t have to be All About Decline

A recent article from the National Geographic explores the concept that there are ways our health can actually improve as we grow older, as long as we are open to it. Michelle Feng, chief clinical officer at Executive Mental Health and a licensed psychologist specializing in geriatric psychology and medicine, explains it this way: “Everyone talks about aging as this decline, but aging is just living. It literally means you are alive.”

The key may lie in how we think. Studies find people who hold more positive views on old age are related to better cognitive health. It may also result in fewer mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Some studies even show those who think positively about the aging process live longer.

One of the ways our health may improve with age is our ability to handle stress. Experts believe the experience we gain from going through various challenges throughout our lives prepares us with tried-and-true strategies on how to better manage today’s stressful situations. Moreover, a study in 2023 reports adults 65-84 even had a physical advantage for handling stress with lower cortisol levels and heart reactivity when they were put through lab-based stress tests. In addition, many older adults have gained more emotional intelligence and adaptability, which may make them more emotionally resilient.

Studies also show while seniors may have a decrease in memory and processing speeds, they have accumulated a broad base of collective knowledge and experiences. In many cultures this is referred to as wisdom; and elderhood is respected for preserving traditions and guiding the next generation.

Another attribute old age bestows is no longer caring what others think. It can be a time of independent thinking with a focus on meaningful things that enrich our lives and those around us. Experts say rejecting common stereotypes of elderly people as feeble and absentminded will help you avoid self-fulfilling prophecies and to feel more in control over your own aging.

MorningStar of Littleton senior living offers 65 assisted living suites in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedrooms for seniors who need a daily helping hand. Residents enjoy a myriad of services including hospitality and senior care, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 20 all-inclusive memory care suites for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Visit our website for more information and to schedule an in-person tour to see our desirable senior living community firsthand. 

Source: nationalgeographic.com/health/article/benefits-of-aging

Rid Your Home of Items You No Longer Use

If your home’s cupboards, closets and drawers are bursting at the seams, you probably have items in there you no longer use and/or need. Now is a great time to get rid of these things to free up space for the items you are actually using. Not only does it make it easier to stay organized but other people may be able to use your cast-offs.

Experts say in order to not get overwhelmed; start the decluttering process in one area of your home like the kitchen. Easy things to start with are unused single-use appliances like a waffle-maker or panini press. When you bought it (or were gifted it), you may have thought you would use it all the time but have since discovered it was more work than you anticipated. Now it just sits in the cupboard taking up precious space. If you have a couple of such items, consider selling or giving to a charity like Habitat for Humanity. Other items to get rid of is an abundance of plastic containers and silverware cluttering your kitchen drawers. Homeless shelters or community programs may welcome them.

Boxes of office supplies can be another thing taking up more space than they deserve. Items like paper, file folders, envelopes and boxes of unused pencils and working markers are sure to be appreciated by schools or after-school programs. Unused craft materials may also be welcomed by after-school programs.

Another area that can get over-crowded is the clothes closet. Many of us are hanging on to old clothes that no longer fit or are outdated. Take everything out of the closet and if you don’t like it, doesn’t fit, need repairs you most likely will never do and is still in good condition, give to a charity. Torn or stained items can also be given to places like the Goodwill that sends unwearable items to recycling plants that make rags.

How many of us have bought an exercise bike or treadmill thinking we will save time and money by exercising at home and the thing is sitting there being used as a clothes hanger? If it still works, there may be a fair amount of money you can make by selling it.

MorningStar of Arvada is a vibrant senior living community offering a safe, maintenance-free lifestyle for yourself or a loved one with assisted living and memory care. Our wide range of luxury amenities, 5-star dining, senior care and hospitality services, and meaningful programs and activities keep residents as busy as they like. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we provide all-inclusive retirement communities Avada, CO families trust for their loved ones. Visit our website to learn more.

Tips to Protect & Improve Aging Skin

A common complaint among older adults is dry, crepey skin. As we age, the skin stops producing oils the way it once did when we were younger, leading to wrinkles as well as thinning, crepey skin. Along with normal aging; cumulative sun damage, weight changes and certain medications as well as hot showers can worsen the problem.

Dermatologists explain that hot showers may relieve stress and help sore muscles; in the long run, they strip the skin of oil and break down its natural lipid barrier that helps lock in moisture and protect skin from irritants and environmental hazards. This does not mean you need to take ice cold showers but the recommendation for skin health is to use warm water and, especially if you are older, do not stay in for prolonged periods of time.

In addition to moderating water temperature to reduce the drying effect of showering, dermatologists say to use mild soap (don’t overly suds), pat yourself dry (don’t rub your skin), and moisturize while your skin is still damp. For those with sensitive or aging skin, be careful using loofahs or exfoliating brushes. If you do use one, watch out for skin irritation and sensitivity; or skip this step altogether. If unsure whether to exfoliate, consult a dermatologist or skin care specialist before starting.

While there are many good, mild soaps on the market, be sure to choose one that is fragrance-free. Dermatologists also suggest using a fragrance-free moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides or peptides that can help heal the skin barrier. Another tip is to use a humidifier in your home if it is very dry and to be sure to drink plenty of water.

At MorningStar of Littleton, we proudly offer the area’s finest senior living in the charming town of Littleton, CO. Our 65 stylish private suites designed for assisted living were recently renovated and are available in a choice of studio and one-and-two-bedroom floorplans. In our distinct Reflections Neighborhood, we provide specialized, individualized memory care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia with 20 suites in a choice of studio and companion configurations. Please visit our website to set up a personalized tour of our outstanding senior living community.

Should You Get an Alzheimer’s Test?

It is estimated Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common form of dementia, will significantly rise in the coming years. While there is not a cure, there have been strides made in both diagnostic tools and medications.

One of those advancements is an Alzheimer’s blood test that was recently approved in May by the FDA. The test, from Fujirebio Diagnostics, looks for abnormal levels of amyloid and tau proteins in the blood. These accumulations that occur in the brain are referred to as plaque, and are hallmark signs of Alzheimer’s. Experts say the blood test’s prediction of Alzheimer’s has an approximately 90 percent accuracy rate.

The other good news is the new test is less invasive as well as less costly than previous tests used to diagnose patients with Alzheimer’s such as PET scans and spinal taps. It also helps to rule out other reasons for a person’s cognitive decline. With the FDA approval, experts say the new test will be more commonly used in symptomatic patients.

The test is currently approved for people with symptoms of cognitive impairment and are between the ages of 55 to 60 and over. As we know the drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s work best in the early stages of the disease but do have significant side effects, a patient would not want to take them before ruling out other causes of memory impairment. Moreover, although Alzheimer’s starts in a person’s brain years earlier than symptoms appear, they are not currently approved for healthy people who would like to rule out a later diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or those that are simply curious.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we are honored to provide exceptional assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. As a resident, you will enjoy peace of mind with predictable budgeting, companionship and an array of luxury amenities, 5-star chef prepared meals, and wellness programs and activities. Our all-inclusive retirement communities are in a distinct Reflections Neighborhood and provide compassionate care to help elevate and celebrate life. Contact us to learn more about our senior living options.

 

                     

Osteoporosis - Foods to Eat & Foods to Avoid

The Medical News Today says 10 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis, and adults over age 50 are at a greater risk. In fact, 1 in 3 females and 1 in 5 males over 50 suffer a broken bone due to osteoporosis. Combined, osteoporosis or low bone mass affects 54% of Americans. Those with a family history of the disease, low weight, smokers, or drink excess amounts of alcohol are at higher risk.

Normal bone metabolism is a constant breaking down and rebuilding process that slows with aging, menopause and certain medications. Doctors say diet plays a role in a person’s ability to maintain bone mass and includes foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Micronutrients and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables also increase bone mineral density and help reduce bone loss. Things to avoid include a high consumption of salty foods and caffeine.

Recommendation for females 51 years and older is 1,200 mg of calcium daily. For men, it is 1,000 mg. Calcium is found in foods such as dairy, soy, fish with bones, and dark, leafy greens; and suggestions include oatmeal, sardines, cheddar cheese, nonfat milk, tofu and beans. In order to absorb calcium, our bodies need vitamin D from sunlight or food. Foods with vitamin D include egg yolks, beef livers and foods fortified with D such as milk, orange juice and cereals.

Other studies link protein and calcium to better bone health. Food high in protein includes meat, poultry and fish; eggs, dairy, soy, beans, lentils, legumes; and nuts and seeds.

If you have osteoporosis or low bone mass you should limit your salt. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases cautions overconsumption of salt can cause the kidneys to excrete calcium. They say excessive alcohol can also interfere with the body’s absorption of calcium and vitamin D as well as disrupt hormones including elevating cortisol levels that can break down more bone.

The newly updated MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Littleton is designed to provide a vibrant lifestyle for seniors. Our community includes a myriad of hospitality and senior care services, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities. Restaurant-style all-day dining services prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef allow residents to set their own schedule. For those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood creates a safe, comforting environment while offering personalized assisted living support and activities tailored to individual needs. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s most desirable senior living.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/osteoporosis-diet?

 

Maintaining Balance is Important to Seniors’ Independence

Improving stability and balance does a lot more for an older adult than simply being able to walk around the house. It can protect seniors from unexpected slips and falls, which is the leading cause of injury among older adults. A fall can result in serious injury including a trip to the emergency room, hospital stay; and even death in some cases. Moreover, maintaining good balance helps seniors stay independent.

Balance is critical to performing essential everyday care activities such as getting up from a chair or the toilet, or out of bed safely as well as walking, climbing stairs and getting in and out of vehicles. Difficulty with these types of tasks can result in a person needing around-the-clock care and moving into an assisted living or hiring daily in-home care.

Good balance gives a person the sense of confidence that they are capable, and able to move about freely. Good mobility means a senior can still take care of themselves, enjoy an active life including socializing and exercising, which contributes to their overall well-being.

If you do have poor balance, there are exercises that can improve your flexibility, strength and coordination. However, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist before starting any new exercise regime. Many balance exercises can be done at home and do not require fancy gym equipment. Other low-impact exercises that help improve balance and strength include Tai chi and yoga.

At the MorningStar of Beaverton assisted living we believe an abundant life is built on a foundation of engaging experiences that enrich us all. Our residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with maintenance-free living, luxury amenities and a full range of wellness programs and activities designed to inspire, connect and entertain. Our supportive environment enables residents to live rich, independent lives while receiving the services they need. Amenities include three daily meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, onsite services of a full salon, a 24-hour bistro, massage room, spa bath, art studio, fitness room and outdoor courtyard with barbeque and fire pit.

For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 38 all-inclusive memory care suites. Please contact us to set up a personalized tour to see what the finest assisted living in Beaverton, OR looks like firsthand.

Don’t like water? Tips to Help it Taste Better

We know water is necessary for survival (our bodies are made up of around 60% of it) and we need it for everything from healthy skin to maintaining normal bodily functions and lowering our risk for disease. Lack of fluids can also result in things like dehydration, kidney stones, constipation and urinary tract infections. If you are someone who doesn’t care for plain water and struggles to drink a sufficient amount of it each day, there are many suggestions on how to make it a more pleasing experience.

One easy tip is to put lemon, lime or cucumber slices, or pieces of fruit such as berries, grapes or pineapple in an ice cube tray and freeze to use in your water bottle or glass of water. Not only will it help keep your drink cold but infuse it with flavor. Additionally, a pinch of Himalayan salt can provide extra electrolytes without having to resort to sugary sports drinks.

The temperature of water can also be important in making it more palatable. Many find ice cold water refreshing while some find putting lemon in warm water more to their liking. For people with sensitive teeth, too cold or too hot water may be hard to drink without feeling pain.

Flavoring your water with herbs or spices along with fruits and vegetables can make it a whole different drink. Some true and tried combinations include cucumbers and mint or apples and cinnamon. Basil is another good herb to pair with strawberries and other fruits. Ginger is known for its healthy properties and pairs well with lemon and other citrus fruits.

Chilled herbal tea is a relaxing drink but be sure to check if it is decaf especially later in the day. Again, many teas pair nicely with a slice of lemon. Many people find adding carbonation makes water more enjoyable. If buying sparkling water, make sure it doesn’t contain sugar, or check into the many at-home devices to create your own sparkling water. If you drink juice, try diluting 100% juice with water to lower calories and make it taste less sugary. Coconut water is yet one more way to hydrate without adding too many calories.

MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community offers area seniors the finest assisted living and memory care. Our 66 independent and assisted living suites come in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet); and deliver style, comfort, services, amenities and location of retirement communities for a carefree lifestyle. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Please contact us to learn more about our beautiful senior living community.