Opportunities for Advancement Along with Full Benefits

With a vision statement that reads: In pursuit of excellence, MorningStar resolves to be a company of servant-minded, purpose-driven leaders in our senior communities and throughout the world, it’s no wonder MorningStar senior living communities are a great place to work. At our Phoenix area communities of MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we are proud to have a team that understands to work with seniors is to be reminded that life’s deepest satisfaction is found in service to others.  

This is why we proudly offer opportunities for our dedicated employees to grow not only professionally but personally and encourage each team member to share creative solutions to improve our residents’ lives. Additionally every employee, regardless of position, is considered an integral part of our success, which is why we offer a full range of benefits as well as opportunities for advancement by promoting from within whenever possible.  

The philosophy behind our loving care is derived from the belief that seniors are heroes; and while our calling is to serve those living within our communities, team members often share how blessed they feel by the special bonds that spring up between residents and staff. If you want to see the love in action, visit our website and take a look at our Twice the Story video series that showcases the tender relationships between residents and team members throughout our MorningStar communities. 

If you love the idea of a career that encourages building loving relationships, working with a team of compassionate service professionals, and receiving the training you need to reach your potential, we encourage you to become a MorningStar caregiver in Phoenix’s finest senior living communities. Please visit MorningStar’s Career page for a list of job openings as well as information regarding our extensive benefits package. For your convenience we provide an online application to make applying easy. We look forward to hearing from you!

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Beaverton

 

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar of Beaverton is ready to help. We understand the heartbreak a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease brings with it and wish to share the burden. Our comprehensive memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. MorningStar’s holistic approach is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and uses Montessori-based therapy techniques. As dementia care specialists, we feel it is our privilege – our calling – to walk alongside residents during this unexpected and challenging journey.

Once the decision is made to join our MorningStar family, we meet with the individual and their family to learn as much as we can about their background, talents and personal preferences. Aiding us in this process is a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized care plan to calm or stimulate as needed.

The Reflections Neighborhood is designed from the ground up to ensure a safe, secure environment in which residents can explore and maintain a sense of independence. Common areas are warm and inviting and meals are thoughtfully prepared and attractively served to encourage residents’ appetites. Purposeful, meaningful activities connect with and nurture the individual, whatever the level of memory loss may be.

Another thing that makes the Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar a special place is our devoted, hard-working team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents. Our distinct mission statement reads to: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and to Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Beaverton, OR.

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

Having a Financial Plan Provides Peace of Mind

 

Growing older typically brings up worries about our health and wellbeing. The AARP states by the time a person is 65 years of age, there is a fifty-fifty chance they may need long-term care sometime in their future. The Administration for Community Living, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, reported in 2020 that women 65 years or older typically needed care for an average of 3.7 years, and men for 2.2 years. Moreover while the cost of such care varies depending on need, experts say in today’s dollar it can average around $140,000 annually.

As none of us know what the future holds, we can end up worrying about disease and/or disabilities, which would make it difficult to care for ourselves as well as worrying about not having the funds to pay for the care. In addition as people are living longer, retirees’ savings may not stretch as far. One way to alleviate your fears and give you peace of mind is to talk to a financial adviser to see if you should have long-term care (LTC) insurance or a hybrid plan like whole life insurance, which allows you to draw from for long-term care.

LTC insurance policies cover many of the expenses regular health insurance does not such as care at home, a nursing home or an assisted living facility. It helps pay for day-to-day care services not covered by Medicare or Medicaid including bathing, dressing or getting in and out of bed.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a senior living community offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and security with independent living, assisted living and memory care. While we work hard to make our community affordable, we also help potential residents to find creative ways to help pay for senior living. When you visit our website, please take a look at our Affordability guide found under “First Steps” to learn more about paying for assisted living. Also remember we are ready to answer any of your questions and direct you to any untapped resources.

Source: aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/info-2018/long-term-care-insurance-fd.html

The Best Pets for Seniors

 

Over the last decade, there have been many studies done regarding the various benefits of pets for seniors including providing loyal companionship and unconditional love. They can help keep a senior active as even if you don’t want to go for a walk, you know your dog needs one. In fact studies show seniors with dogs are more physically active than other older adults without pets. Another thing about taking a dog out for a walk is it is a great way to meet new friends.

However before you rush out to get a dog or cat, veterinarians caution seniors (and their well-intentioned family members), to remember some animals are better suited to the energy level and temperament of older adults. They recommend several breeds of dogs that have a good disposition and are easy to care for. One breed making the list is the French bulldog as they are known as reliable companions and good walking partners. Poodles and Schipperke are both loyal and intelligent and also easy to care for. Veterinarians say a Maltese has a reputation for being an attentive dog to its owner. For a more active senior, a Pembroke Walsh Corgi makes a loving, partner.

Experts say there are some breeds of cats that typically make better companions for seniors. The Birman cat is one. It is moderately active, affectionate, gentle, and a faithful companion known for its quiet air of dignity. Russian blue cats also make the list as they are quiet, gentle, genteel cats and make very loyal companions. Persian cats are known as very affectionate. The Ragdoll cat is another good choice as it is known for its docile, placid temperament and affectionate nature.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we approach senior living from all angles to provide our residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. Recognizing the importance of pets to theirs owners, our community is pet friendly. We just ask that new residents check with us regarding our pet policy.

Our community has 38 Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages) designed for active seniors seeking the area’s best independent living. Within our main building, we have 65 private assisted living suites for those who require a little help with daily care. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we have 35 secure suites staffed by a compassionate team of trained caregivers. Please visit our website to learn more.

Have Back Pain? You are Not Alone

 

It is estimated that up to 90 percent of Americans experience one or more episodes of back pain each year. According to Dr. Richard S. Lee, a spine surgeon with Hoag Orthopedic Institute in Southern California, "As a medical symptom, back pain is second only to the common cold in this country."

Even though it is common, doctors have some suggestions to help ease the pain and perhaps even prevent or lessen reoccurring episodes. For many types of back pain, a good start is to use some sort of anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Dr. Whitney Luke, vice chair of clinical operations in the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, cautions some cases of back pain may require something stronger like an oral steroid.

Doctors also say exercise is a good way to relieve pain. In fact for many, chronic back pain should be treated by daily exercise focusing on building a strong core. The best exercises include aquatic therapy, Pilates and yoga, which also help strengthen your endurance and improve overall health. Other suggestions include focused breathing techniques and mediation.

Heat and ice can help loosen up back muscles and bring down any swelling. Additionally your doctor may advice you to lose any excess weight, and if you smoke, to quit. If you experience severe pain that does not improve or have leg numbness or weakness, difficulty walking, difficulty urinating or having bowel movements, fever and/or chills, experts say to seek immediate medical attention.*

The senior living community of MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages) for independent living and another 65 private suites for assisted living. Our Reflections’ wing provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s warm, loving environment includes exceptional architecture, resort-style amenities and a compassionate team of caregivers. Visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria.

This blog is for informational purposes only, consult your healthcare provider with any medical problems or questions.

Source:

health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/tips-for-managing-back-pain?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Aug%2005%2006:29:00%20EDT%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

A Senior Community Infused with Heart

 

At MorningStar of Arvada, our approach to senior living is characterized by the sage words of our Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger who says, 

“What do seniors essentially want? What do we all want? To be valued at our core;

To be seen as significant; To be looked squarely in the eyes and loved.”

To accomplish this, we start by hiring extraordinary individuals with virtues such as selflessness, character and kindness to staff our home, and who feel honored to serve seniors. These are people who routinely go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents and who understand the magnitude of their contributions. We believe it is why we get reviews from families like the following: “My mom is in Assisted Living and LOVES the staff and community! I am so impressed with the love, care, concern, kindness, and joy that are the essence of this place. It is all so authentic! My sweet mom is so happy and that is such a gift, to know your mom is in such a wonderful place and so well cared for! This place is a true gem!” 

Another woman writes about the peace of mind her family has knowing their parent is being taken care of so well. She writes: We couldn't be happier with our experience at Morningstar. Our family refers to MorningStar as "the resort" because it's gorgeous, comfortable, and it literally feels like you're on vacation. The staff and administration has gone above and beyond our highest expectations. Our loved one is in a safe, reliable environment with such wonderful, caring people. Thank You Morningstar!!

Our 112 contemporary suites for independent living and assisted living are purpose-built for seniors in both form and function. Designed with sleek fixtures, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, mini blinds, and other modern amenities, many suites offer spacious balconies or patios. All that’s missing are your furnishings and treasures, and as we are pet friendly, you won’t have to leave behind your beloved, furry family member. 

If you want the memory care Arvada families rely on, you have found it. When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia; it affects the entire family, and brings uncertainty and even fear into what to do next. The team at MorningStar of Arvada wants you to know we are here to help shoulder some of the burden and to help your loved one through this challenging journey. Visit our website for more information.

Reset Your Internal Clock for a Good Night’s Sleep

As more and more research shows, getting enough sleep each night is important for everything from better mental health to better physical health. Some studies have even reported findings of an increased risk for Alzheimer’s in people who routinely have sleep problems.

If you are someone who has trouble getting to sleep or sleeping through the night, the US News & World Report recently published several tips from sleep expert to help reset your sleep clock and improve your sleep habits. They recommend beginning with reestablishing waking and bedtime rituals by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up the same time. It may even be a good idea to eat meals at the same time. Your bedroom should be dark and use a light-blocking sleep mask if needed. Also keep your bedroom a work free zone. Other recommendations include avoiding caffeine after 12PM, spending time outdoors during daylight hours, and exercising each day. 

Dr. Kannan Ramar, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a pulmonologist, critical care specialist and sleep medicine specialist at Mayo Clinic, and professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, says, “Pervasive worry is a major factor in sleep disruption.” He advises his patients to turn off the TV and your tablet one or two hours before bedtime. Stop drinking alcohol at least one or two hours before sleep and consider moderating your consumption. 

If you have started the search for senior housing, please take a look at MorningStar of Arvada. Our community is situated on 1.5 acres and encircled by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada Reservoir. We offer all-inclusive independent living and assisted living as well as memory care that compassionately and expertly connects and nurtures the human essence whatever the extent of memory loss. Our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more has made us the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/sleep-reset-getting-your-sleep-back-to-normal?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Jul%2015%2006:29:00%20EDT%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

Tips to Help Keep a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Safe

Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. This is why experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep your spouse or mom or dad safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. 

Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, install automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, look into food delivery services. Additionally lower the temperature of the water coming from your taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies in a locked area. 

To reduce the risk for falls, install grab bars in the bathroom and put non-skid mats in the tub or shower. Stairways should be well-lit and uncluttered as well as hallways and pathways from room to room. Doctors who work with Alzheimer’s patients caution it is important to remember it is a progressive disease, and there may be a time when more restrictive protocols are necessary such as closing off a staircase altogether.       

At the MorningStar of Arvada, our Reflections Neighborhood provides 29 secure memory care suites for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The neighborhood is separate from the rest of our community and includes an enclosed courtyard, suites equipped with emergency call systems, and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Each resident receives an individualized service plan and participants in daily activities such as arts and crafts, listening or dancing to music, physical exercise, special celebrations and other events. 

In addition we have 112 bright independent and assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet). Please visit our website to learn more about trusted memory care Arvada, CO offers.