Monday, December 30, 2019

Learn More About MorningStar at Golden Ridge



You may have found that there are several senior living communities in and around Peoria and may be wondering what sets MorningStar at Golden Ridge apart from all the others.  To start with, we offer seniors a wide range of senior living options that start with our comfortable independent living Casitas with an attached garage.  MorningStar’s assisted living is designed for those who want to maintain their independence but require some help with their day-to-day personal care activities. 

We are also proud to have earned a reputation as one of the leading memory care facilities in the Western U.S.  Our Reflections Neighborhood offers a holistic approach to caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

However, the thing that really sets us apart from other area senior living communities is our unique mission statements.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded by Ken Jaeger, whose intention has always been to provide senior housing that feels like a loving home (just like his grandmother’s) and offers a sense of “family.”  Our mission statements start by honoring God in all of our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing heavily in our teams’ ability to serve well.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s extraordinary team is another reason we stand out from the rest.  Our team selection starts with heart, and we specifically seek out individuals who have a felt calling to serve and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure residents receive first-class care and services.  Furthermore, we train our entire team in our culture we call Radiance, which lovingly guides the way we deliver service. 

We invite you to visit our website for more information.  While you are there, follow our link to inquire about availability and pricing or to set up a tour to see firsthand our beautiful community.  We look forward to meeting you.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge 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 create a true home for residents.  Visit our website to schedule an appointment to tour one of the area’s premier senior living communities.     


Saturday, December 28, 2019

Changes to Improve Your Health



As we grow older, experts say there are some relatively simple changes we can do to help make the process smoother, and remind us it is never too late to adopt healthier habits.  They suggest four main areas to focus on that will make a difference in our overall health. 

First, multiple studies have shown that taking care of our emotional health is important.   Many older adults suffer from chronic health conditions (80% have at least one and 50% have two or more) including heart disease or cancer, which can put seniors at risk for depression.  When a person’s emotional health suffers, it can negatively impact other aspects of their health.  In fact, research shows a link between depression and social isolation to “digestive problems, heart failure and weakened immune systems.”  Thus it is important for seniors to reach out for help if they feel depressed and to participate in activities that give their lives purpose and maintain or develop social connections.   

The next area to focus on is exercise.  Experts say we should look at exercise as more than a way to get stronger and/or to lose weight.  Exercise provides a whole range of benefits including helping to boost immunity and preventing muscle loss, as well as improving blood flow and strengthening the brain.    

Another suggestion is to take better care of our hair and skin.   Good skin care can help to avoid infections and should include washing with a mild soap while taking care not to “over wash” and moisturizing daily.  Also apply sun screen whenever you go outdoors. 

The last area to focus on for better health is nutrition.  Did you know that millions of seniors suffer from malnutrition?  One of the problems facing the elderly is that as we age, appetites decrease so getting all the nutrients the body requires is challenging.  Seniors need to keep in mind that it is not just about how much you eat but what you eat.  One thing that appears to help seniors eat better is to make eating a social affair. 

At MorningStar of Beaverton assisted living and memory care community, we make this easy as residents eat nutritional, tasty meals together in our charming dining room.   We provide seniors the opportunity to socialize as much as they want by participating in group enrichment activities and wellness programs that stimulate the mind, body and spirit.   Please visit our website for more details.   

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.


Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/how-to-make-a-daily-healthy-aging-routine/

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s Dining Experience



At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we understand the important of gathering together as a community to “break bread” each day.  We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.” 

We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why food is prepared largely from scratch and features the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced.  MorningStar’s meals are prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef. 

As a resident, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as those we enjoy at Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Also, our Chef modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes.  Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods.   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge also believes that nutrient-rich ingredients can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health.  This is why we prepare meals using BrainWise super foods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts and other foods high in Omega 3 fats. 

For our memory care residents, food is as much about Community as it is about Nutrition. To encourage appetites, our team members sit and share meals with residents and many are served “family style” as they are in private homes.  Much of our food is modified out of respect for residents’ somewhat compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look.

Please visit our website to learn more about our exceptional senior living community. You will find links to set up a tour or for pricing and availability.   
 
MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge 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 create a true home for residents.  Visit our website to schedule an appointment to tour one of the area’s premier senior living communities.    


Monday, December 23, 2019

Decorating Your Suite in an Assisted Living Community



We all know that life changes can be fraught with anxiety and fear and moving into assisted living is certainly a major change for many seniors.  However, experts say there are several things families can do to help ease the transition period.  

One of those things is to help your loved one make a comfortable home in their new suite.  Julia Bailey, a senior associate and interior design project manager with Denver-based OZ Architecture, explains that, "Moving into assisted living often can feel like a loss of independence and privacy for your loved one, but thoughtful interior design can go a long way toward improving happiness and well-being for the resident, as well as improving overall functionality of the new living space." 

Ms. Bailey cautions that you need to remember to let your loved one have a say in how their new home will be decorated including the personal mementos and photos they want to bring with them and which ones they want to display.  Trigging happy memories with sentimental items is a big step toward making their new place a real home.  Also accent pillows and pictures are an easy way to add a lot of color and attractiveness to their place. 

Please keep in mind safety concerns when placing furniture and avoid using area rugs that can become trip hazards or overcrowding a room and not leaving enough space to easily navigate.  Install hand rails where needed and make sure there is easily accessible lighting in the bathrooms and hallways if the person is getting up at night.   

Helping your loved stay organized can improve the home’s safety as well as the aesthetic.  Consider any mobility issues the person may have and make sure frequently used items are within easy reach on a shelf.  Chairs and sofas should be firm and stable. 

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we have 66 private bright suites for assisted living and another 38 secure suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.    We are committed to provide the best senior living in Beaverton, and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community.  

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-care/best-assisted-living/slideshows/decorating-tips-for-assisted-living

Sunday, December 22, 2019

What is Assisted Living?




You may be confused about whether assisted living is the best choice for you or your loved one.  While licensing requirements for assisted living communities vary by state, they generally provide care for individuals who do not require around-the-clock skilled nursing.  The National Center for Assisted Living defines assisted living as “part of a continuum of long-term care services that provides a combination of housing, personal care services, and health care designed to respond to individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes maximum independence.”

Thus, assisted living communities are ideal for seniors who are mainly independent but need help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) such as dressing, bathing, and other personal care tasks.  They also provide daily meals and 24/7 care and can readily accommodate residents’ changing needs and preferences.  Most offer transportation and housekeeping services, which mean an assisted living home is perfect for aging in place.       

Many communities provide wellness programs and activities that engage and support the residents’ intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual needs.  Furthermore, many encourage family members to get involved with the community’s activities and special events.    

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a senior community in Peoria, AZ offering 65 private assisted living suites and 35 secure memory care suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diseases.  For independent seniors, we also have 38 Casitas with attached garages.  We are located at North 67th Avenue and West Golden Lane on an 8.8-acre campus, convenient to banks, hospitals, medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants.  Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.


Source: ahcancal.org/ncal/about/assistedliving/Pages/What-is-Assisted-Living.aspx

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Assessing a Senior’s Fitness to Drive



From time to time, there have been serious accidents involving elderly drivers that reach the nation’s attention and reopens the debate regarding the age that elderly adults should stop driving.  While some states have implemented stricter rules for seniors renewing their driver’s license, many states have met resistance or have had a hard time coming to a consensus.  It is hard to assess a senior’s fitness for driving as each person is different and health problems vary immensely.  One good thing is that many seniors start to self-regulate their driving habits once they notice problems.

Experts say if you have become concerned over your parent’s fitness to drive, you need to start a conversation with them.  If you think they can still handle limited driving with some restrictions, talk to them about setting up rules such as avoiding major highways and rush hour, driving only in daylight and during good weather.  Remind them that this will help keep them safe as well as others who share the road with them.  If they have had fender benders and are having trouble following traffic signals, it may be time for them to stop driving altogether before they hurt themselves or others.  However if this is the case, be sure to have some plans in place for alternative transportation. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers compassionate independent and assisted living for seniors and provides the services and amenities required for their comfort, wellbeing and safety.  This includes scheduled transportation to doctor visits as well as shopping trips to area stores.  We routinely take field trips to local culture events, museums, parks, and more.  Please visit our website to learn more about our senior living community in Peoria, AZ, and while you are there, use our links to set up a tour and to ask about availability and pricing. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.



Sunday, December 15, 2019

Individualized, Compassionate Memory Care at MorningStar of Beaverton


At MorningStar of Beaverton, our mission is to provide the best senior living in the Beaverton Oregon area, which includes specialized, loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

MorningStar Senior Living operates over 25 senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar of Beaverton benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained over their 16 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling to provide care to our most special residents.  By devoting a separate area to memory care called our Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings. 

Our holistic approach to dementia 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 feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.

In addition to our Reflections Neighborhood for memory care, MorningStar of Beaverton offers 66 graciously appointed suites for assisted living with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  Please visit our website to learn more about our approach to memory care and our exceptional community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest assisted living and memory care in Beaverton Oregon.


Saturday, December 14, 2019

Keep Family Gatherings Simple for a Loved One with Dementia



The Alzheimer’s Association warns families to not expect too much from a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia during the holiday season.  Rather they explain that “when a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, a little extra planning can help make holiday celebrations enjoyable for everyone.”

Start by going over holiday celebrations with other relatives and close friends and make sure everyone is aware of the situation. The National Institute on Aging cautions that big, crowded celebrations can cause confusion and anxiety for a person with Alzheimer’s so you may want to limit the number of people gathered at any one time.  

Involve the person with Alzheimer’s in safe, simple activities such as asking them to help prepare food, hang ornaments, or to wrap packages.  This can be a nice time for them to open up and reminisce about the old days.  It is best to avoid using candies or other edibles as decorations and keep in mind that blinking lights may confuse a person with dementia.   

Also maintain the person’s routine so the holidays do not become too disruptive or confusing, and remember to stay flexible.  Experts say it may be better to have your celebratory meal at noon rather than in the evening as some people with Alzheimer’s experience evening confusion or “sundowning.” Keep a room available where the person can go and rest if they are feeling too stimulated or confused.  Here you can have a quiet activity laid out for them such as a photo album they will enjoy looking through or play calming music. 

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers care to those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia. We are a team of compassionate, professionals who feel privileged to serve our most “tender residents.”  We also consider supporting family members as part of our job and recognize that a diagnosis of dementia is traumatizing for all involved.  Visit our website for availability and pricing information and to schedule a tour. 

MorningStar at Golden Ridge represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health/holiday-hints-alzheimers-caregivers

hrrv.org/blog/celebrating-the-holidays-when-a-loved-one-has-alzheimers/ 

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Holiday Gift Ideas for Seniors



With the holiday season fast approaching, many of us are stumped as to what to buy for an elderly parent and other senior loved ones.  Experts suggest you keep in mind they most likely they do not need a lot of “things” but would appreciate something that helps to make their lives easier and/or more enjoyable. 

In fact, do not limit yourself to the idea that gifts have to be something new.  Many seniors enjoy getting out and taking them to an activity they love such as a sport’s game (maybe a game of their grandchild’s), a play, or concert is quality time spent together.  Another idea is to give them a series of gift certificates for a year’s worth of monthly dinners out with you or for things like haircuts, manicures, a spa day with massage, or even ride services.

As many elderly adults get cold easily, a comfy, soft throw blanket makes for a good gift.  Another thoughtful gift especially for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is a customized photo blanket.  They can be ordered through several large retailers and are not too expensive.  If your parent is a music lover, expand their collection with popular songs from their younger days, and if they don’t already have one, buy them a portable boom box that is easy to use.

Another gift idea is to get them a phone or simplified tablet that will let them facetime, enjoy family photos, and browse the Internet.  Gift baskets filled with favorite foods or new soaps and lotions, non-skid soled slippers or compression socks also are appreciated by seniors.  Other ideas include large-print playing cards, puzzles, and adult coloring books with a new set of markers are also fun gifts for seniors. 

If you are looking for senior living in the Peoria, AZ area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge.  We are committed to provide our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community second to none. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge 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 create a true home for residents.  Visit our website to schedule an appointment to tour one of the area’s premier senior living communities.    



Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Keeping Mentally Active as You Age


More and more research suggests it is just as important for seniors to stay mentally fit as it is to stay physically fit, and may actually help to keep older adults’ brains healthier.  Seniors who engage in meaningful activities also report they feel healthier and happier.

The National Institute on Aging says these types of activities may protect the brain by establishing a cognitive reserve.  They explain “they may help the brain become more adaptable in some mental functions, so it can compensate for age–related brain changes and health conditions that affect the brain.”

One study called the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) Trial, had good results in improving seniors’ mental skills in the areas they were trained in.  The study involved healthy adults age 65 years or older who participated in 10 sessions of memory training, reasoning training, or processing–speed training.  The most surprising result of the study is that ten years later most of the participants’ improvements were still noticeable.   

Brain activities can include reading a book, making a puzzle, doing crosswords or playing trivia and other types of challenging games.  Research also suggests that memory improvement is not only accomplished by targeted brain games or memory drills, but can come from undertaking a new skill or hobby.  Learning to play an instrument or a foreign language are also great, brain healthy activities.  

Committed to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, MorningStar of Beaverton provides residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Every day we offer a variety of fun and engaging activities that include things such as exercise classes, word games, craft classes, card and board games, puzzles, and a book club.  Please visit our website to learn more about our loving community and while you are there, be sure to take a look at “More Scenes of Elevated, Celebrated Life.”   

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults


Thursday, December 5, 2019

morningstar general 11
Once you decide to move into a senior living community like MorningStar of Arvada, you may be faced with downsizing decades’ worth of personal items and a houseful of furnishings.  It is no wonder it feels like an overwhelming task. 

Organizing experts have several tips to help you get started such as beginning with an inventory of your possessions.  After that, create a list of the things you do not want to part with and another list of items you would like to give away to family and friends.      

Now measure the size of your new suite and create a floor plan that gives you a realistic idea of how your furnishings will fit in your new place.  If the unit is a studio or a smaller, one bedroom, you do not want to be so crowded you cannot safely move around. It may even turn out that you need to buy some things like a smaller couch or coffee table. 

Your next step should be to evaluate the things you want to keep to determine if you will have the room.  The process will require some give and take but keep in mind you do not want to bring a lot of useless clutter to your new home. Also remember at communities such as MorningStar of Arvada, we do most of the cooking and serve the food restaurant-style.    

Any possessions that are left can be sold, donated or recycled and some charities will even come and pick up pieces of furniture and items you do not want.  When you get into your new suite, use bins and shelving to help organize everything so you can easily get to it. 

For the area’s finest independent living, assisted living or memory care, Arvada CO area seniors are invited to consider MorningStar of Arvada.   Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community. There you will find an online form to set up a tour or to inquiry about pricing and availability. 


MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  Please schedule a visit to see the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO offers.

Are You Concerned About Mom or Dad Living Alone?


Have you started to suspect that your parent is not doing so well living on their own?  Experts say there are several things you should look for that will help you determine if it is time to make a change in their living situation. 

One of the biggest concerns for families is safety as they begin to see their parents struggle with health issues that can make them more vulnerable to accidents and medical crises.   Things to be on the lookout for include poor balance or failing eyesight that increases their risk for a fall; or the worry that comes from knowing they have already fallen.  Maybe you have noticed bruises or cuts they are reluctant to talk about.  In addition, if your parent is still driving, have they recently had a fender bender or another mishap while driving? 

Are you worried your loved one’s forgetfulness is putting their safety in jeopardy?  Do you have reason to believe that they are prone to wander or that their forgetfulness is leading to behaviors such as leaving the stove-top or oven on? 

Other signs that your parent needs more help is if you have noticed a change in their hygiene such as wearing the same clothes day after day and having difficulty with personal bathing and toileting.  Do they look as if they have lost weight recently?  Is the refrigerator empty or filled with spoiled food?  Also look around their home.  Has there been a change in their housekeeping such as dirty dishes in the sink, mail stacking up and unread, and a general neglectful look to the home.   

MorningStar of Beaverton, located in a western suburb of Portland overlooking a beautiful natural wetland, offers loving assisted living and memory care.   Our community was designed from the ground up to be a true home for our residents and offers all of the amenities and services needed for their comfort, wellbeing and safety. 

MorningStar of Beaverton 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 assisted living and memory care community.


Making the Move to a Senior Community

morningstar general 11
Once you decide to move into a senior living community like MorningStar of Arvada, you may be faced with downsizing decades’ worth of personal items and a houseful of furnishings.  It is no wonder it feels like an overwhelming task. 

Organizing experts have several tips to help you get started such as beginning with an inventory of your possessions.  After that, create a list of the things you do not want to part with and another list of items you would like to give away to family and friends.      

Now measure the size of your new suite and create a floor plan that gives you a realistic idea of how your furnishings will fit in your new place.  If the unit is a studio or a smaller, one bedroom, you do not want to be so crowded you cannot safely move around. It may even turn out that you need to buy some things like a smaller couch or coffee table. 

Your next step should be to evaluate the things you want to keep to determine if you will have the room.  The process will require some give and take but keep in mind you do not want to bring a lot of useless clutter to your new home. Also remember at communities such as MorningStar of Arvada, we do most of the cooking and serve the food restaurant-style.    

Any possessions that are left can be sold, donated or recycled and some charities will even come and pick up pieces of furniture and items you do not want.  When you get into your new suite, use bins and shelving to help organize everything so you can easily get to it. 

For the area’s finest independent living, assisted living or memory care, Arvada CO area seniors are invited to consider MorningStar of Arvada.   Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community. There you will find an online form to set up a tour or to inquiry about pricing and availability. 

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  Please schedule a visit to see the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada CO offers.

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Age Related Hearing Loss


According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults.   They state that, “Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing.”

Hearing loss may result in difficulty following a conversation as well as the danger of not properly hearing a doctor’s advice.  Many older adults cannot hear the doorbell or may have trouble responding to alarms and other warning devices such as a smoke detector. 

The NIDCD lists several signs that may indicate you are suffering from hearing loss.  These include things like having problems hearing the TV or radio at levels that are loud enough for others or a reluctance to attend family gatherings and church services. 

Common causes of hearing loss are a condition called presbycusis, which is gradual hearing loss that seems to run in families or exposure to loud noise over an extended period of time.  Other things that can increase your risk for hearing loss include earwax build-up, diabetes, listening to music with earbuds, and being overweight.

Your hearing loss may also be due to your medication.  The AARP reports that according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “more than 200 drugs, ranging from over-the-counter medications to chemotherapy, can damage hearing.”  Even common pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen have been linked to a higher risk of hearing loss when taken for six or more years as reported by a Brigham and Women’s Hospital 2016 study. 

If you feel you may be experiencing hearing problems, you will need to see a doctor to be tested.  Furthermore, since there are many reasons for hearing loss, treatment options will vary depending on the cause. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Beaverton, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the finest senior living in Beaverton Oregon.


Sources:  nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss
aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2014/hearing-loss-causes.html


Recommendations for Elderly Drivers

Older drivers can still be good, safe drivers, but there are some things to consider both for your safety and the safety of others. The May...