A Senior Community with a Passion for Serving Seniors

The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community’s mission is to provide all the services needed to support and enhance residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. As one of the top assisted living communities in the Phoenix area, residents are provided with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations. Services also include scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and more. Wellness programs and activities are designed to keep residents as busy as they like.  

It isn’t just our belief that these kinds of services, amenities and programs provide a higher quality of life for many older adults, but in fact, a number of studies have shown this to be true. Research finds “seniors in retirement communities may be living longer and stronger, meaning they become frail less quickly than those who remain in their own home. Residents of independent retirement communities enjoy better health and could potentially live longer because of it.” Moreover, several studies report that because of the support services, older adults with multiple chronic health problems in senior living communities are less likely to require high levels of hospitalization as compared to their peers who live alone.  

Experts believe the enhanced health of those living in retirement communities may also have something to do with the stress-free lifestyle that includes no longer needing to maintain a home. Meals are another part of MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s luxury amenities, so residents just relax and enjoy being served restaurant-style in our community dining room. To help you stay in your best shape, we provide exercise classes, a saline swimming pool with hot tub, and fitness center.

Please visit the MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.” When you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or set up a tour. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s trusted senior living options include independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Peoria. Please ask about our Move-in Specials. 

Source: 

bethesdahealth.org/blog/2020/10/08/seniors-live-longer-happier-retirement-communities/

How MCI is Diagnosed

Studies report approximately 12-18% of people aged 60 or older have some level of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). So how do you know if you are one of them? The first step to diagnosing MCI typically comes after a person starts to complain of forgetfulness or cognitive problems, or initiated at the urging of family members. Doctors explain it is usually more serious if it comes at the request of those closest to the person because as a person develops more of the signs of Alzheimer’s they often are not aware of their memory loss. 

Your doctor will begin with a thorough evaluation to try and determine if the problem is MCI, Alzheimer’s or normal age-related memory loss, or caused by another factor. It is important to note not all cases of MCI develop into dementia and an evaluation could identify medications as the problem. A Harvard Medical School article states, “Establishing the cause and scope of the impairment is helpful in setting a baseline for future evaluations to determine if the condition is progressing to dementia.” 

Some of the preliminary tests include a complete blood workup to rule out anemia, infection, kidney and liver disorders, or diabetes. Other tests may check for thyroid abnormalities, elevated blood calcium and vitamin B12 deficiencies. 

Cognitive tests begin with an in-depth medical history as well as questions regarding the person’s memory lapses and other thinking problems. Your physician will probably request a family member be there to reaffirm and document the changes. Experts say quickly progressing memory problems are most likely another issue as true dementia progresses pretty slowly. 

Your physician may refer you to a neuropsychologist for more tests including paper and pen and computer tests to assess memory, language and other cognitive skills including motor and visual function. If deemed necessary, they may do structural and functional brain scans or an amyloid PET scan, which detects in a living brain signs of amyloid plaques, the hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer 38 Casitas (quadruplexes with attached garages) for independent living and another 65 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. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted seniors living in Peoria, AZ. 

  

Have a Big Heart? How About a Caregiver Job?

After the last year and a half, many people are rethinking their lives and making plans for the future that include going in a different direction career-wise. If you are one of those people and feel you could make the world a better place by helping others, how about a job serving seniors? MorningStar Senior Living has four communities in the Phoenix area looking for people just like you to fill a variety of roles including housekeepers, dining servers, caregivers and more.  

If you are new to senior living and are worried about your qualifications, please know our team selection starts with heart. In other words, we first look for individuals with character, kindness and selflessness, as when it comes to serving others, these virtues are as important as education and experience in building a distinguished team. From there, we invest in each employee to ensure their success with meaningful training and coaching as well as generous compensation and benefits.

  

For those wondering if the time is right, listen to the inspiring words of MorningStar’s Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger urging others to live a life of selflessness. He says, “Don’t wait to serve. Serve now. Today. Get involved somewhere, anywhere. It will make you a better person (and if you work for MorningStar, it will make you a better team member).” He wants us to know when we give now and give generously, watch what happens in our lives “for you cannot out-give God.”  

Our Phoenix locations include MorningStar at Arcadia, MorningStar of Fountain Hills, MorningStar at Arrowhead, and MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our beautiful communities have a unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest” that set us apart from other senior living communities. Please visit our Career page for links to rewarding caregiver jobs in Phoenix and to take a look at our full package of comprehensive benefits including competitive wages and flexible schedules.

Independent Living has Never Looked Better

 

Now may be a great time to seriously think about a move into independent living. Winter is coming to Colorado and who wants to worry about raking leaves, snow removal and whether the roof will need replacement next year. Senior living communities like MorningStar of Arvada take care of all of the outside and inside maintenance, freeing you up to do the things you love. Even traveling is easier as you no longer have to worry about what is going on back home.  

Each of our private bright suites, we have 112 in all, are smartly designed to maximize space and come with wall-to-wall carpet, full kitchens, sleek fixtures, high ceilings, large windows, mini blinds and other modern amenities. For peace of mind, they are equipped with fully handicap-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems, dedicated heating and air conditioning systems, and basic Cable TV, Internet and other utilities. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services are another means to a carefree retirement. 

With a focus on community and wellness, residents enjoy 5-star meals prepared under the direction of our Executive chef and served restaurant-style in our charming dining room or in good weather enjoy your meal on our dining deck. Our cozy fireside living room hosts a Happy Hour each day, or catch a movie in our theatre complete with popcorn. If you need a sweet treat, visit our ice cream parlor, or in need of pampering, book an appointment at our full service salon. Other attractions to keep you at “home” include our club rooms, sports bar, art studio and more. For a workout, head to the pool or our fitness center. 

Our assisted living residents receive the daily care they need to help them stay independent and include 24-hour caregivers, access to a licensed nurse and medication management among other services. Scheduled transportation is provided to doctors’ appointments, local malls and other places of interest. 

Along with MorningStar of Arvada’s 112 independent and assisted living suites, we have 29 secure memory care suites in our Reflections’ wing devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Meticulously designed to address the needs of our most tender residents, we use Montessori-based therapies to engage residents and find ways to celebrate life regardless of the extent of memory loss. Please visit our website for more information on independent living, assisted living and the most trusted memory care Arvada CO offers.   

To Reach Your Weight Goal, Pay Attention to Portion Size

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach our goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not overconsered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that while foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However, to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.”

MorningStar of Beaverton provides residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful community offers assisted living and memory care with a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Contact us or visit our website to see what sets us apart from other senior living communities in Beaverton, OR.

We proudly provide the very best in assisted living and memory care 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. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

With Winter Coming, Be on the Lookout for Vitamin D Deficiency

Medical experts say to be on the lookout for a vitamin D deficiency this winter as days are shorter and we typically spend less time outdoors. One problem can be the use of sunblock, which limits the body’s ability to make vitamin D. Studies also have found seniors to be at an additional risk for the deficiency as the older we get, the harder time our bodies have in absorbing the vitamin, and is why doctors recommend a higher daily dose for older adults. 

Moreover medical conditions can interfere with the absorption of vitamin D such as inflammatory bowel disease or cystic fibrosis, as can diets like vegan and other vegetarian options or avoiding dairy altogether because of lactose intolerance. Another group that may be lacking in vitamin D is individuals with a BMI over 30. Dietitian Ali Webster, director of research and nutrition communications at International Food Information Council in Washington, D.C says, “body fat can isolate vitamin D instead of spreading it to other parts of the body.”   

To avoid a deficiency, experts say to include foods high in vitamin D in your diet such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products and non-dairy milks, eggs, liver and mushrooms. Many cereals and orange juice are also fortified with vitamin D. Signs of a vitamin D deficiency include: musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and listlessness, frequent infections and illnesses, osteoporosis, lower back pain, mood changes and muscle aches or pains. Experts say if you are concerned about any of these symptoms, to see your healthcare provider.

At MorningStar of Arvada , we offer the most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO. along with a wide range of resort-style amenities, care and hospitality services, and wellness programs and activities. Please visit our website to learn more about our community and our commitment to serving others.  

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/signs-of-vitamin-d-deficiency?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Sun%20Oct%2017%2007:49:00%20EDT%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health

Looking for the Area’s Best Memory Care?

If mom or dad, or another loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, you want the finest care for them. MorningStar of Arvada is just such a place. As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, founded in 2003, we are committed to using best-practices including Montessori-based therapy techniques to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for our most tender residents.

We understand the challenges a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s presents for the whole family and believe it to be an honor and a calling to help. Our holistic approach to care begins with a physical environment designed to calm and soothe, with safe, inviting common areas throughout that encourage independence. To help keep residents engaged, we provide a gentle flow of concurrent activities and meaningful wellness programs. 

Moving a parent into memory care comes with lots of deliberation but once a family chooses MorningStar of Arvada, we are there every step of the way to walk your loved one through the transition. Our first step is to get to know all we can about the individual such as their background, talents and personal preferences by using a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized service plan in accordance with the family. 

MorningStar of Arvada is committed to offering the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Our community also offers assisted living and independent living as well as short-term stays (30 days or less) for those times when a senior’s regular caregiver needs a vacation or when recovering from surgery or an illness. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted senior living options including memory care in Arvada, CO; and ask about our all-inclusive rent & care memory care studios for $6000/MO. 

Looking for a Memory Care Community for a Loved One?

Searching for memory care for a loved one that suits the person’s needs as well as the family’s is challenging at best. Knowing the person is dependent on getting the level of care they need for both their wellbeing and safety makes choosing the right home essential. Experts say start by taking your time to think about your loved one’s needs including daily personal care required such as dressing, toileting, bathing, etc. as well as any on-going medical needs. 

Additionally, do they have mobility issues and use a wheelchair or a walker; or do they need assistance eating? If the person is known to wander, you will want a secure home to keep him or her safe including alarms on the doors. Another thing experts say is to let the community know if the person is prone to angry outbursts or other aggressive behaviors. 

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s needs, now co
nsider if the homes you are looking at are equipped to handle those needs. Ask about living arrangements, dining service, and the level of daily help the person will receive. Moreover, does the community offer exercise programs and other meaningful activities? 

Now inquire about the homes’ experience with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, and the training the staff has in dementia care. What is the home’s philosophy of care and how do they approach difficult situations such as aggressive behaviors? Most of all does the staff seem caring and do residents appear to be content and well-looked after? 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Beaverton offers 38 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care 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 exceptional assisted living and memory care.