Having a Hobby Can Relieve Stress & Anxiety

 Experts explain that many of the things we consider to be merely hobbies are not only relaxing but can also be beneficial to our wellbeing, and one example is knitting.  As a recent international survey found, knitting has a “measurable effect on calming anxiety and relieving stress.”  In fact knitters reported feelings of happiness and calm while knitting as well as enjoy the social nature of the activity even though recent events mean it is currently an online community.   

Another clinical study involving individuals with eating disorders found that knitting had a significant effect on decreasing their anxiety.  Participants reported a sense of calm along with a lessening of obsessive thoughts and preoccupations.   

Researchers believe that just as playing the piano is good for our brains by having the movement of both our hands coordinate; knitting accomplishes much the same thing.  These bilateral (two-sided) movements fire neurons all over the brain, which in turn stimulates a whole host of brain functions that provide numerous benefits.  Through a series of studies, knitting appears to help those suffering from not only anxiety but eating disorders and pain management.  Knitting also offers the satisfaction of creating a warm hat, sweater, baby blanket, or a pair of socks for a loved one or someone in need. 

If knitting isn’t your thing, experts say you may want to try journaling to cope with your anxiety.  When you put your feelings in writing, it may help you to gain control of your emotions and to create order in your world of chaos.  It is also a good way to prioritize concerns and problems.  To help you take advantage of random thoughts that come to you throughout the day, carry paper and pen so you can record your feelings while still fresh in your mind.  

Some other easy-to-do stress-relievers include learning to cook or experimenting with different recipes.  Becoming serious about photography can in addition be a good excuse to get out in nature.  Doing word puzzles or coloring, swimming, yoga, and walking can also be beneficial.  Just remember that it might take tries to find the perfect hobby or activity for you to do, and it may be a combination of several, but most of all don’t give up.        

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 about unsurpassed independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.  

Source: lovecrafts.com/en-gb/c/article/knitting-for-mindfulness

Study Shows the Benefits of Walking for Exercise

 

 

A recent study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking. Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.

The 2 ½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail. The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises. The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.” The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.

Another thing to encourage seniors to exercise is experts consider the ability to walk on one’s own without assistance the key to their independence. Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes. If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.

Visit the MorningStar of Beaverton website to learn more about our loving senior living community. Here we have direct links for pricing and availability as well as floor plans, a list of amenities and services, and information on MorningStar’s commitment to providing seniors trusted assisted living and 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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in Beaverton, OR.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

To Aid a Speedy Recovery - Some Tips for Before & After Surgery

 

 

Medical experts say there are things we can do before and after that may help encourage our recovery from surgery. One of the first things says Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, is to think of surgery not as a sprint but rather as a full marathon or race. She explains, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after. You want your body to be as prepared as possible, and exercise and good nutrition before and after surgery are part of this."

Before your surgery, your doctor may have you screened for a series of health problems including malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and then take steps to address them. As exercise is another important part of getting in shape, you should talk to your surgeon about what is safe for you to do. If you feel you need more guidance, ask if you are a candidate for a pre-habilitation program as it can show you the best type of exercise to safely strengthen your body in readiness for surgery. Also be sure to ask about what kind of exercise is safe to do after the surgery. Doctors say typically the quicker you are to move, the quicker you get your strength back.

If you find yourself suffering from preoperative anxiety, ask your surgeon to walk you through the experience so you know what to expect including “pre-surgery, during surgery, the hospital stay and recovery after surgery," Dr. Fisher explains. Your post-surgery diet should be rich in protein, and avoid sugary and processed foods. Also stay hydrated. Quitting smoking is another thing that offers big benefits in post-surgical outcomes as “smoking increases the risk of blood clots, reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to the tissues that need it and increases stress on the heart.” Finally if something doesn’t seem right about your recovery, contact your surgeon.

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 most trusted assisted living and independent living in Peoria, AZ.

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery

The Role of Caregiver can be Stressful!

 

 

If you are the main caregiver for an elderly family member who requires help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), it may be the job is becoming too much for you. The Nov/Dec issue of Today’s Geriatric Medicine cites a study by the “National Alliance for Caregiving and Caring Across Generations,” which states that more than 11 million American adults are considered sandwich generation caregivers and bear the responsibility of simultaneously caring for their children as well as an aging family member. In total it is believed there are approximately 40.4 million unpaid caregivers for adults 65 years and older in the United States consisting of adult children, spouses, relatives or friends. In addition 61 percent of those caregivers are employed, including nearly half who work full-time and juggle their own family responsibilities.

While for most, caregiving is a labor of love but there is no denying it can be challenging. Whether you are an adult child with your own children, a spouse, or another relative, you may feel it is time ask for help. This decision may lead you to an assisted living community where mom or dad will receive all the care they need and you can go back to being their loving child. If you are a spouse who has been responsible for the caregiving duties, senior living communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge warmly welcome married couples to live together in their own suite, surrounded by their own treasured possessions.

We are pleased to give residents and their families peace of mind knowing that trained care managers are there to help navigate changes in health, and that transportation is available for doctor visits and other errands. It is also a relief to know mom or dad will have nutritional, daily meals prepared by our own Executive Chef, built-in companionship, and the comfort of knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed.

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community has a team of caregivers who feel it is a privilege to serve seniors and understand that residents deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Our community has 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 suites for assisted living, and 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

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 independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Source:

viewer.zmags.com/publication/d04ca42b#/d04ca42b/9

pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/11/18/5-facts-about-family-caregivers/

Unsurpassed Independent Living in Peoria

 

 

While senior living options abound in the greater Phoenix area, we think you will find MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a step above the rest. Our gorgeous community offers all of the amenities and services you need for relaxed, carefree retirement years and is located in the attractive community of Peoria. Moreover our range of housing options including independent living, assisted living and memory care.

If you are an active seniors looking who wants to start enjoying your retirement years, we recommend taking a look at our Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages), which are tucked into their own private neighborhood on our expansive campus. Our Casitas, equipped with premium upgrades and stylish floorplans, offer an incomparable value from anything else in the area.

Another thing you will appreciate about MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s independent living is the freedom from costly, unexpected home repairs and on-going maintenance. Instead you will love the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living. Also you will know where you stand financially with a predictable budget as virtually all of your living expenses (including homeowner’s insurance and property tax) are controlled through the bundled Monthly Rental Fee.

In addition our excellent location (situated near the Cardinal’s stadium) offers easy access to shopping, restaurants, major medical facilities and metropolitan recreation. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s main building offers 65 suites for assisted living with one and two-bedroom floor plans. Our memory care wing provides another 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

You also get peace of mind knowing that if you are in one of our Casitas and found yourself in a position where you need care with the tasks of daily living, your request for an assisted living suite will be prioritized. Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful senior living community.

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. Offering exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we invite you to visit our website for more on trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria, AZ.

Rewarding Jobs at MorningStar Senior Communities

 At the Phoenix area MorningStar Senior Living communities, we recognize that our team, particularly the front-line service staff, is the very heartbeat of our homes and currently seek exceptional individuals with a felt calling to serve. Communities include: MorningStar at Arcadia in Phoenix; MorningStar at Arrowhead in Glendale; MorningStar of Fountain Hills in Fountain Hills; and MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria. 

While many of our homes are much newer, our parent company, MorningStar Senior Living celebrated its 17th anniversary this year, and we expect to be around for many more.  We credit our success to the fact that we have stayed true to our brand, which holds the belief that MorningStar’s senior living homes are radically relational places where seniors are viewed as heroes. Thus, we have intentionally created a culture defined not only by what we do, but by the kind of people who bring it all to life – our team members!

Open positions include rewarding jobs that allow you to work closely with our residents and fellow team members such as our Life Enrichment Coordinators.  Here you will help develop activities that keep residents mentally, physically and creatively engaged within the framework of our comprehensive activity program.  You will get the opportunity to know each resident and to discover what they are passionate about as you encourage them to share their talents and join in the fun.   

We also have openings for caregiver positions including care managers and medication care managers/QMAPs.  These jobs also allow you to build strong relationships with our remarkable residents, in fact we encourage it.  We feel the better you know the residents you serve; the more likely it is you will know exactly what they need when they need it.    Other openings at our Phoenix communities include food servers, cooks, housekeeping jobs, and more.  

In addition to a generous financial compensation package, MorningStar offers a host of other benefits including comprehensive insurance coverage. This includes health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, telehealth coverage, life insurance, and supplemental insurance (disability, accident, critical illness). At MorningStar, we strive to make sure our team members are protected against most of life’s unexpected costs.  Please visit our website for a complete listing of positions, detailed descriptions and online applications.  We look forward to hearing from you! 

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 options.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  If you would like to serve, we invite you to visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on a range of positions including housekeeping jobs in Phoenix.

Debunking Common Myths about Diabetes

 Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is what 90% of Americans with the disease have.  In Feb, 2020, the CDC reported 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes; and 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. With such a prevalence of the disease, the Medical News Today website explores some common myths surrounding the cause and treatment of the disease.  

First one is a misconception that type 2 diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.  While not strictly true, diabetes can be a result of a poor diet that includes too much sugar and leads to obesity, which is a risk factor for the disease.  However to complicate the case, doctors do say there is evidence that suggests a high consumption of soda pop is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, although they are not sure why.  

There is also concern that too many people think diabetes is not a serious disease.  This thinking can lead to someone not managing the disease as they should, and result in dangerous complications.  Another myth is that obesity always causes diabetes.   Again medical professionals say while being overweight and obese are risk factor, the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistic Report, 2020, says “11% of people with type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are neither overweight nor obese.” 

Managing the disease well plays a huge role in outcomes.  For those who follow a good diet, maintain a healthy weight, control their blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and stay physically active, usually can avoid dangerous complications.  Doctors also say by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, it is not inevitable that those with prediabetes have to develop type 2 diabetes.  

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we are committed to creating a true home 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.  While visiting our website, please read our protocols for dealing with COVID-19 and how we are safely accepting new residents into independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families count on.    

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 availability of assisted living, independent living and experienced memory care in Arvada CO.  

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-diabetes

What’s the Difference Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home?

 

 

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living facility knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Beaverton have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary from studios to two-bedrooms, all of our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, large windows and both natural and overhead lighting. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.

MorningStar of Beaverton offers the kind of senior living area families have come to count on. We have 66 bright suites for assisted living and another 38 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer.

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.

Worried About Memory Loss? It May be Time to See a Doctor!

 The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

MorningStar of Arvada offers independent living and assisted living as well as memory care.  Through a range of resort-style amenities and Life Enrichment programs, residents are offered a quality of life other senior living communities simply cannot match.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community and our dedication to serving others.  

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.    

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Looking for Assisted Living in the Beaverton, Oregon Area?

 

 

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be the place for you. For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 66 assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features. Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, lots of windows, ceiling lights, and mini-blinds.

In assisted living, we offer various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure your safety as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.

Why we believe our assisted living to be different from that of other communities is by the type of individuals who make up our team. When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are more important than education or experience. Moreover, many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness!

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know we have made many changes in our community in our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus. As the nation slowly reopens, MorningStar of Beaverton is judiciously following our state’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing. Please visit our website for a virtual tour of our beautiful community and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.

MorningStar of Beaverton’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a beautiful setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

A Community with Several Neighborhoods under its Roof

 The MorningStar of Arvada senior living community is a beautiful, safe place to age in place and offers the benefit of being one community with several neighborhoods under its roof.  We start with 112 fully-equipped bright independent and assisted living suites that just need your furnishings and personal treasures in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet).  Our memory care wing has another 29 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.    

To provide the kind of memory care Arvada, CO families can depend on; we begin with a high staff to resident ratio.  We then provide all employees comprehensive training in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach to memory care and leads to a better understanding of the disease.  In addition along with a whole range of meaningful activities and programs, residents receive full-time non-medical care, transportation, and a meal service geared toward their special needs.  They also receive assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) that include dressing, toileting, eating, transferring from a bed or a chair, etc., and more.  All of this is done with the belief that caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is our calling—our privilege, as we find ways to celebrate and elevate life.

Moreover if you start out in independent living, you have the comfort of knowing if you later require help with the ADLs, you will get first priority for an assisted living suite.  In fact residents can transfer to Assisted Living or Memory Care, depending on the availability of the desired suite; and if there is any delay, you are welcome to bring in a home care agency in the interim.  And there is no internal Transfer Fee.  Please visit our website for more info.

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 to learn more about compassionate memory care Arvada, CO families count on.  

Source: seniorlink.com/blog/communicating-with-dementia

As We Age, Socializing Opportunities Often Start to Diminish

 

 

 

As we age, socializing opportunities often start to diminish. Many seniors no longer go into an office daily; while others start to feel uncomfortable driving, have mobility issues or physical ailments, have experienced the recent loss of a spouse, or other factors that limits their ability to socialize. Now add in the fact that many seniors are refraining from joining family activities due to COVID-19, it can be a lonely time for many older adults.

Lack of socialization in the elderly has many downsides. Seniors who say they feel isolated and lonely have been found to have higher rates of depression, more anxiety, lower sense of self-esteem, and shorter life-spans. Conversely older adults with a more robust social network appear to benefit from better physical, mental and cognitive health. Studies show socially active seniors handle stress better, which in turn leads to better cardio health and improved immune systems.

While many senior communities may not be as open to the public as they were before the start of the pandemic; nonetheless community living provides peace of mind to residents knowing someone is always around. At the MorningStar Senior Living communities, we adhere to the various states’ guidelines in which a particular community is located to keep residents as safe as possible.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we proudly announce we are “OPEN to LIFE WHAT EVER the SEASON” and that “COVID-19 HAD NO POWER TO CANCEL LOVE!” And we practice that philosophy every day. We continue to offer opportunities to socialize and connect with others while still remaining safe. With 66 bright suites for assisted living, MorningStar apartments are true homes that offer residents privacy, comfort, and ease. Please see our website to discover why MorningStar of Beaverton is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

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.