Is it the Flu or COVID?

 

Hopefully you have had or are planning to shortly get your annual flu shot, but even if you have had yours, you may still want to know the difference between the flu and COVID-19. Doctors say in order to know for certain, you need to get tested. While symptoms are similar and include fever, aching muscles, sore throat, shortness of breath, fatigue, and headache, the biggest differences is in the case of the flu. a person typically feels the sickest in the first week of the illness. COVID-19 is characterized by feeling much worst in the second or third week of the disease and can take much longer to recover from.

One symptom unique to COVID is the loss of smell and taste. While not everyone experiences this symptom, it is one of the unique features of the disease. With the flu, the incubation period is much shorter as a person can begin to feel sick within one to four days after contracting the virus. The coronavirus can take anywhere from two to 14 days from infection to begin to feel symptomatic and is a much more contagious disease.

Another concern of doctors is that someone could become infected with both viruses at the same time. However health experts hope that with the type of precautions we are taking to prevent the spread of the coronavirus such as mask wearing, handwashing and social distancing, it will also help to prevent the spread of the flu.

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community has 65 private assisted living suites and another 35 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other memory impairments. Additionally tucked into their own private neighborhood, our 38 independent living Casitas are designed to meet the needs of active seniors. To keep all those beneath our roof safe from disease, we have rigorous protocols in place throughout every phase of our operation as well as follow safety measures for accepting new residents. For complete information regarding our loving community please visit our website.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted assisted living and independent living in Peoria, AZ.

Source: cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm

Now is the Time to Try Out those Hobbies You Have Wanted to Do!

 

As many of us are spending more time at home, we are also searching for new, interesting things to do. Along with the satisfaction and fun we derive from learning and improving our skills in any number of activities, did you know it may also benefit our health? In fact studies have shown that cultivating hobbies isn’t just a relaxing break from day-to-day responsibilities and chores, but can provide both mental and physical health benefits. One such study found participants engaging in leisure activities had “immediate stress relief, as well as lower stress and depression in the longer term.” Other studies found participants who enjoyed leisure activities experienced lower blood pressure and had a more positive picture of their overall health.

One thoroughly enjoyable activity is to read. Reading not only opens doors to new places and new ideas but introduces us to people that are not the same as us. If you need ideas on what to read, just google best books of 2020 and you will have a whole range of ideas. Moreover if you have a tablet or e-reader such as a Kindle or Nook, you can easily download books from a number of book sellers. If you would like to get more social, start a virtual book club or join one already online.

One interesting website that may help you become a lifelong learning and expand your horizons is Great Courses Plus. By partnering with renowned organizations such as the National Geographic, History®, Smithsonian, Mayo Clinic, and The Culinary Institute of America, they are able to offer a course on most any topic you can think of. Other fun activities may include joining an online choral group if you love to sing or to take look at the many YouTube exercise videos to keep you moving.

Now is also a good time to start an indoor garden, learn to make jewelry or learn calligraphy and personalize birthday and holiday cards. If you have always wanted to be a better cook, arrange flowers, or finally start that scrapbook, what’s stopping you? This summer I spent a couple of days watching YouTube videos with my grandson as we tried to learn new card tricks. The list goes on and on so why not get started improving your skills, broadening your interest, and having fun?

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge community has a distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, seniors are proud to call us home. Please visit our website to learn more about unsurpassed independent living & assisted living.

Source: goodhousekeeping.com/life/g30246497/best-hobbies-for-women/

Seeking Great Hearts to Join Our Team

 

At the MorningStar senior living communities in the Phoenix area, we are on a mission to provide the most loving and compassionate care to our residents.  To help us achieve this goal, we need Great Hearts with a felt calling to serve to join our team and fill a variety of roles including care manager, med tech, housekeeping jobs and more.  Our Phoenix are area communities include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar at Arrowhead, MorningStar at Golden Ridge and MorningStar of Fountain Hills.

Doing work that matters changes lives – your own and those you serve as many of our team members will enthusiastically tell you.  Here is one example of a moving story that illustrates the point: “People always ask me why I love my job so much. For me it’s not always about money, but the difference you can make in someone’s life. MorningStar has done so much for me in the short time I have been here. Not only am I changing residents’ lives, but they are changing mine.”   

Thus we seek individuals with virtues such as kindness, character, and selflessness who will go the extra mile to meet residents’ expressed needs as well as their unexpressed ones.  MorningStar also looks for men and women who understand the significance of the work and recognize they are making a difference in the life of a senior.

We are proud to support our team members with some of the most generous benefits in the industry. Compensation starts with competitive wages, and bonus or incentive opportunities (depending on position).  In addition, employees are eligible for paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick time, birthday appreciation day, 401k plan availability, health savings account availability, uniforms, training and advancement opportunities. At MorningStar, we strive to make sure our team is paid well for the valuable services they provide our company.

Please visit MorningStar’s website for a list of assisted living jobs in the Phoenix area as well as detailed job descriptions and an online application.  We help you ignite your passions and discover your natural gifts! 

At MorningStar’s Arcadia, Arrowhead, Golden Ridge & Fountain Hills communities, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  Our foundation is built on honoring God and valuing all seniors, and we are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve.  If you would love to thrive professionally and personally, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a link to rewarding assisted living jobs in Phoenix.

MorningStar Casts a New Light on Senior Living

 

 

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community 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 home 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.

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge community 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.

Please visit our website to learn about availability within our 38 independent living Casitas, which are quadraplexes with attached garages and tucked into their own private neighborhood in Peoria. We also offer another 65 private assisted living suites in our main building as well as have a separate wing devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Learn more about senior living committed to creating a true home for our remarkable seniors.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living & assisted living in Peoria.

Along with a Flu Shot, Doctor Recommend another Vaccine for Seniors

 

Most of us have heard the CDC and other health professionals stress the importance of everyone getting a flu shot this year. However you may not have heard about another important vaccine recommended for anyone over the age of 50. Shingrix is a vaccine designed to prevent shingles and was introduced to the public in 2017. The CDC reports Shingrix is the preferred shingles vaccine as it offers more than a 90 percent success in preventing shingles. However for the last couple of years, there have been shortages of the vaccine and it was not available to many older adults.

While you should always check with your healthcare provider before getting any vaccine including the shingles’ vaccine, as of July 2020, a company’s spokesman said GSK's Shingrix is no longer on the CDC's shortages list, and there is now a supply “available to meet demand across all distribution channels.” They still suggest you check with your drugstore or doctor to make sure they have the vaccine available.

The CDC says the reason so many older adults are eager to get the vaccine is that “nearly one in three people in the U.S. develops shingles at some point.” They add that symptoms include pain, rash, itching, and first fluid-filled, then eventually crusting blisters that can lead to permanent scarring.

It is recommended that anyone over the age of 50 gets the Shingrix vaccine even if they are uncertain whether they have had chickenpox in the past or have a history of shingles. The CDC also says you should get the Shingrix vaccine even if you got the Zostavax vaccine in the past. Zostavax is a live vaccine and is only about 51 percent effective toward preventing shingles.

Medical experts explain that the Shingrix vaccine is a recombinant vaccine. “This means vaccine manufacturers created it by altering and purifying DNA that codes for an antigen to produce an immune response to fight the virus.” Shingrix requires two shots taken at least two to six months apart. Common side effects from the vaccine include pain, swelling, itching and soreness at the site of the shot, and a small number of people report headaches. The CDC says to consult your healthcare provider to learn whether a Shingrix vaccine is the right treatment option for you.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s senior living community has a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We are set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area.

Source: healthline.com/health/shingles-vaccine-side-effects#who-should-get-it

MorningStar of Beaverton Offers Memory Care Under a “Lavender Sky”

 

Along with assisted living, Beaverton, Oregon’s MorningStar community offers 38 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 Beaverton, 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. Please contact us for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 the finest memory care and assisted living Beaverton, Oregon offers.

Seniors Can Really Benefit from Positive Thinking

 

There are many examples of how the power of positive thinking has changed people’s lives for the better.  When we take a positive attitude, it helps us to be more successfully in most every aspect of our lives; and experts say it can be even more important as we age.    

Tom Caklos, founder of the www.positivecreators.com website, explains that positive thinking “is a critical ingredient for the well-being and health when a person is on the last leg of his or her life after completing all responsibilities and fulfilling all goals.”  He adds it is an important tool to help the elderly transform their lives and fill it with passion, energy and joy.”     

So how can a senior who may be experiencing the loss of independence or a loved one, challenging health problems, and/or chronic pain cultivate positive thinking?  Experts suggest getting into the habit of using positive affirmation to change negative thinking into positive thoughts.  Moreover when we focus on the changes we wish to make in our lives, it can help boost self-esteem and confidence.  

Positive affirmations can be simple and include things like giving thanks each day for your longevity and for all of the people in your life who you love and who love you.  Be grateful for the wisdom you have learned in life and recognize your ability to contribute.   Affirm that these are the best years of your life, that you have the right to good health, and the right to live with joy and purpose.  

The beautiful MorningStar of Arvada senior living community has a sterling reputation in the greater Denver area.  This is probably due in part to our mission to value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and our commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.  We offer 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites, with another 29 secure memory care suites in our Reflections’ wing devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  When visiting our website, please read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into our loving independent living, assisted living and memory care community.    

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting.  Please visit our website for availability of assisted living and independent living as well as experienced, loving memory care in Arvada CO.  

Source: 

seniorslifestylemag.com/health-well-being/the-hidden-power-of-positive-affirmations/ 

Our Website is Full of Information & Resources

 

If you have started the search for senior housing, we recommend taking a look at MorningStar of Arvada.   Situated on 1.5 acres and encircled by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada Reservoir, our gorgeous community offers all-inclusive independent living, assisted living and memory care for relaxing, carefree retirement years.  To ensure residents’ every need is met, we offer a broad range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more.     

For a deep dive into our community, our website is a good place to start as it is loaded with information including floor plans, a list of amenities, lots of pictures, and background on the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  We explain more about what the difference is between independent living, assisted living, and memory care, along with a decision guide to help your family determine if senior living is the right choice for your loved one.  You will also find a link discussing affordability and Veterans aide as well as other options such as companion living and short-term stays.  For families who need memory care in Arvada, CO, we offer lots of info regarding our compassionate expertise and holistic program. 

Our website’s FAQs are handy as they go over a whole range of topics to many of the questions you most likely have. This includes information on how prices are structured, how the level of care is determined in assisted living, our transportation services and pet policy.  Other popular questions regard our dining program and medication management services.  We also go over special circumstances like if your health needs change while in independent living are you able to transfer into our assisted living wing?  The answer is of course. If nothing is available immediately, you can bring in a home care agency to help out until we have a unit open.   

While this is just a small portion of the extensive information on our site, we are also ready to answer any other questions you may have through a phone call, email, Facebook, or use our Virtual Assistant that lets you start a live chat.  We look forward to hearing from your family and are ready to serve.  

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting.  Visit our website for more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.    

How Pets Improve Our Lives

 

Research has shown that having a pet can improve our mental health, cardiovascular health and PTSD symptoms. In fact, even if you do not own a pet but just spend some time interacting with animals, it can lift your spirits and decrease stress. Also during times of isolation and uncertainty, many of us feel our pets are more important than ever.

The great thing about pets is they offer unconditional love and loyal companionship. Caring for an animal can be a welcome distraction from life’s other worries and can provide more meaning to our life. Moreover, how can you feel upset or angry when sitting with a cat on your lap and hearing the relaxing, melodious sound of their purr? Research has shown that an act as simple as petting a dog or cat has been shown to reduce stress and help regulate our mood.

Many people believe their pet has the ability to pick up on their emotions and know when they are sad or stressed and need a little “extra love.” In addition, dogs need exercise so many dog owners are motivated to get outside and exercise, which is always a good thing. However, experts caution that before you rush out and adopt an animal that you think about how much time you have to care for one, and do you have the money to pay for the extra expenses. Also, if your choice is a dog, are you physically able to provide the animal with the daily exercise they need?

For the area’s finest assisted living, Beaverton, Oregon seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging. We understand how important our residents’ furry friends are to them, which is why we are pet friendly. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about all of MorningStar of Beaverton’s services and amenities.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. 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 the finest memory care and assisted living Beaverton, Oregon offers.

Frequent Myths People have about “Normal Aging”

 

The Medical News Today website recently published an article debunking some commonly-held myths people have about growing older.  It may spring from the fact that achieving old age is a relatively new phenomena but according to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Between 2000 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will double from about 11% to 22%.”

Since so many more of us are sticking around for a longer time, it is important to tackle some of the misconceptions regarding the aging process and just exactly what is normal. One strongly held belief is that physical deterioration is inevitable.  Scientists concede this is both true and untrue and explain while our bodies do wear down; we can delay the process.  In fact they cite research that suggests “merely expecting physical deterioration increases the likelihood that someone will physically deteriorate.”  The WHO explains, “Increased physical activity and improving diet can effectively tackle many of the problems frequently associated with old age.” These include reduced strength, increased body fat, high blood pressure, and reduced bone density among others.  

There are also people who think they are too old to exercise but doctors say exercising is good for us at any age and we are never too old to start receiving the benefits.  Staying physically active improves muscle strength, reduces fat, and protects mental health.  

Another myth research has debunked is that cognitive decline is a normal part of aging.  Medical experts report that the truth is only “22.2% of people in the U.S. aged 71 or older experience cognitive decline. Of these, each year, 11.7%–20% develop dementia.”  The Alzheimer’s Association wants everyone to know that a healthy diet and lifelong learning or cognitive training can reduce your risk for cognitive decline.    

The MorningStar of Arvada senior living community encourages seniors to join us in celebrating carefree retirement years with 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites in various configurations including spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floor plans.  We additionally provide 29 secure suites for individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please visit our website for more information.    

MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting.  Visit our website to learn more about our community’s independent living and assisted living as well as memory care in Arvada, CO.  

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-aging#1.-Physical-deterioration-is-inevitable

Assisted Living at MorningStar’s Beaverton, Oregon Community

 

 

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 look into an assisted living facility. When you begin your search, please add the beautiful MorningStar of Beaverton to the top of your list. Far from a “facility,” MorningStar is a true home that offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.

Too often a senior worries 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.

All of this could not be further from the truth when you consider the reality of what MorningStar of Beaverton has to offer. Along with beautiful private suites in a range of configurations and floor plans, a whole host of resort-style amenities, and 5-Star dining, our community also offers 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. Along with our 66 suites for assisted living, our community has 38 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 of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.