Couples are Welcome in Many Assisted Living Communities

When a couple’s health experiences are different, and one is healthier than the other, that person may be assuming the role of caregiver. As time evolves, the needs of the chronically ill spouse may become more complex and require daily care. This can be difficult for the healthier spouse, and even impact his/her own health and well-being.

To ensure both parties have an opportunity for the best quality of life; an assisted living community may be the answer. While leaving a family home and transitioning to community life is a big change, the transition is easier for the person with a spouse or partner by their side. Marissa Kirby, NHA, CHC, CHPC, and vice president of compliance at NEWGEN HEALTH, LLC, explains, “In many cases, particularly when a couple has been married for many years, the ability to live together can make or break their decision on whether or not to move to an assisted living facility.”

Many senior living communities like MorningStar of Arvada welcome couples; where we not only expertly and compassionately address the needs of a person living with a chronic illness but also the needs of the healthier spouse. MorningStar of Arvada’s assisted living provides the maintenance-free environment of independent living with the addition of care services for the ADLs (activities of daily living) tailored to meet the needs of the resident. We offer an array of floor plans starting with studios and one-bedroom options to large two-bedroom, two bath suites. Along with beautifully prepared restaurant-style meals served all-day, suites have kitchenettes with full-sized appliances and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Moreover MorningStar of Arvada welcomes your four-footed furry family member.

Senior-friendly activities, resort-style amenities and built-in companionship can be a winning combination for many couples. Please contact MorningStar of Arvada to learn more. In addition to assisted living, we also offer independent living and dedicated memory care Arvada, CO families have come to know and trust.

 
Source: agingcare.com/articles/couples-living-together-assisted-living-144938.htm

With a Little Effort, We can be Our “Best Self” as We Age

Medical experts discuss the natural changes and not so natural changes our bodies go through as we age, and things we can do to help mitigate or delay some of the impact. The first thing to consider is that our heart must work harder as our arteries and blood vessels become stiffer, leading to things like high blood pressure and other forms of heart disease.

To keep your heart as healthy as possible, doctors recommend staying active each day. Walking, swimming or even moderate types of exercise can help maintain your weight. A heart-healthy lifestyle also includes sleeping 7 or 8 hours a night and eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and plant proteins.

Loss of muscle mass can reduce body strength and make it difficult to get around safely. Experts suggest daily exercise like a brisk walk and/or lifting light weights can help improve strength and function. Remember it is always important to check with your doctor to see how much exercise is right for you.

Older people may begin to notice changes to their sight and hearing. You may find yourself needing reading glasses or having difficulty driving at night. A sign of hearing problems can include trouble hearing higher frequencies, needing to increase the volume on the TV, or following conversations in a crowded restaurant. The best remedy is to have your vision and hearing regularly checked; wear sunglasses when in the sun, and earplugs to protect from loud noises.

Occurrence of tooth decay, plaque, infections and gum disease can be more frequent as we age. Good dental health includes brushing and flossing twice daily and getting regular check-ups and teeth cleaning.

As our bones begin to weaken in our 40s, and bone loss is sometimes measured by a decrease of an inch or two in stature; joints can start to feel stiffer as fluid and cartilage decreases and wears away. The 50s and 60s can bring on the first signs of arthritis, which is why doctors stress it is important to get enough calcium in your diet and vitamin D.

MorningStar of Arvada is a vibrant senior living community that caters to the various needs of seniors with unsurpassed independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families trust. Contact us to learn more.

Osteoarthritis

The Lancet journal reports the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA); and it is estimated to affect 500 million people worldwide (7% of the global population). In the US, over 32.5 million have OA, or 1 in 5 adults. Of Americans with OA, 70% are over the age of 55; and it is the leading cause of disabilities in seniors.

Females are more likely to have OA with many cases occurring after menopause. Research suggests the resulting physiological changes in a woman’s body accounts for the elevated number of cases. Obesity is another risk factor, and may be due to the increased stress on weight-bearing joints. Others are more at risk for OA due to their occupation such as agricultural work, cleaning, construction and carpentry.

OA develops as the cartilage covering the end of a joint bone begins to wear away; and the joint rubs against a rough surface rather than smooth cartilage. With repeated use of a joint and the changes in the tissue over time, the condition is more common in older adults. Pain and stiffness associated with OA can impact a person’s day-to-day life and lead to depression and anxiety as well as make it harder for them to control their weight.

While exercise has been shown to reduce pain in people with OA, it also comes with challenges. Many fear making the pain worse, and instability can cause a person to feel like they may fall or contribute to a lack of range of motion and mobility.

However exercise can be very beneficial to people with OA. Julie Lombardo, a physical therapist and CEO of Capitol Physical Therapy in Madison, Wisconsin, says, “It’s easy for people who encounter hurdles to give up on exercising when that is the last thing they should do.” Some exercises are better than others for people with OA; and consult with your healthcare provider if you are new to exercise, have high blood pressure or heart disease, or are obese.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we strive to provide residents with a vibrant environment that promotes wellness and engagement. Our community has a range of 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites in spacious studios, and one- and two bedroom configurations. Reflections Neighborhood offers devoted, all-inclusive memory care for seniors with dementia. Please visit our website to set up a tour of the area’s top independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors can count on.

health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/exercises-for-osteoarthritis

Navigating the HealthCare System can be Confusing

We all have occasional aches and pains but when problems persist or interfere with daily life, it is time to consult a doctor. The question often is “who should you see?” For answers, Medical experts weigh-in on a recently published article from The U.S. News & World Report.

Before you begin, start with understanding the role of your primary care physician and his/her expertise. Primary care physicians are typically internal medicine doctors, family medicine doctors or pediatricians. Internal medicine doctors, also called internists, handle common and complex illnesses in adults and older adults. Family doctors care for people of all ages from birth to end of life, and pediatricians specialize in the care of children.

Experts say when you schedule a visit to your primary care doctor; they can help decide whether you need the expertise of a medical specialist. Dr. David Cutler, a board-certified family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains upwards of 95% of cases can be taken care of with good primary care and the referral is the exception.

The exceptions for the services of a medical specialist include when the patient’s chronic disease requires a special test such as a colonoscopy, stress test or an Upper GI Series test. If results show a need for treatment, the specialist may take over. Another reason a specialist is used is when the patient’s symptoms are eluding their primary care doctor; or the patient wishes for a second opinion.

At MorningStar of Littleton senior living community, our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest,” sets us apart. Our location is convenient to downtown and its shops and restaurants, and close to health facilities such as St. Anthony Hospital & Swedish Medical Center. Please contact us to learn more about the most trusted assisted living and Alzheimer’s care the area offers.


Source:

health.usnews.com/health-news/best-hospitals/articles/types-of-doctors-and-medical-specialists?

A Tasty Addition in Your Diet Could Decrease Your Risk for Alzheimer’s

Recent research out of the UK reports there are things we can do that may influence our risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Although Alzheimer’s Research UK states there’s no sure-fire way to prevent dementia yet, because some of the things that shapes our risk like our age and our genes, can’t be changed. “But others, like our diet and the things we do to challenge our brains, can be.” They go on to say the latest evidence suggests up to 40% of all cases of dementia are linked to factors we may be able to influence.

A tasty way to perhaps decrease our risk is to enhance our diet with the addition of several spices to our daily meals. The first of these spices is turmeric, which has lots of research behind it for offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric contains an active, natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin and is part of what gives turmeric its yellow hue. Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, says some research shows a decrease in pain for patients with osteoarthritis when eating turmeric in recipes. Doctors suggest getting turmeric naturally in your diet rather than in supplements is healthier.

The world’s most expensive spice, saffron, is also associated with health benefits including reducing depression symptoms and improving cognitive function; and gives food seasoned with it a golden hue color. The commonly used pepper is another spice on the list of beneficial foods as it may improve brain function and lower depression symptoms. Its value increases when used with turmeric as it “improves the bioavailability of nutrients in other foods, meaning your body absorbs more of the good stuff from what you eat.” Studies find another common spice, sage, may improve memory in low amounts.

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we take every step to ensure the health and well-being of our residents. Our contemporary community offers independent living and assisted living as well as all-inclusive memory care Arvada, CO families depend on. Contact us to schedule an in-person tour of our vibrant community.


Source:
huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/these-spices-could-lower-your-risk-of-developing-dementia_uk_661d1ca4e4b0f8e522db5d3d?ncid=APPLENEWS00001

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/turmeric-benefits#:~:text=“It's%20better%20to%20get%20curcumin,or%20gummies%2C”%20she%20says.

Benefits of Assisted Living

Way too often people have misconceptions about assisted living communities. They think of the nursing facility where their grandparents may have spent their last years in and don’t want to put themselves or an older loved one into something like that. After all, haven't we all earned a happy retirement?

Today’s assisted living communities are just that – a community. They provide a productive lifestyle with social interactions, safety and the proper support a person needs to help maintain their independence. Many also offer resort-style amenities like all-day, restaurant –style dining; housekeeping, fitness centers, salons, bistros and in-house theatres and chapels to give seniors a vibrant community to safely age in place.

Furthermore many older adults living alone say they feel socially isolated and lonely, which can put them at an increased risk for depression, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and more. When seniors transition to an assisted living community such as MorningStar of Littleton, they have opportunities to engage in wellness programs and entertaining activities and events. These can range from things like art classes to chair yoga and trivia games. Seniors also have an easier time eating healthier as they no longer need to shop, prepare, cook and clean-up meals.

Another reason senior living can make sense is seniors find their current home requires expensive modifications to make it safe for them. Throughout MorningStar’s community, the physical environment is designed to help residents stay safe and prevent falls. Suites are equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24/7 emergency call systems; and have lots of lighting and large windows. Dedicated care managers are available around-the-clock to lend a hand when needed, and provide compassionate daily help with the ADLs (activities of daily living).

To learn more about assisted living and whether it is the right decision for you or a loved one, we encourage you to set-up a tour of MorningStar of Littleton. MorningStar communities have proudly earned a reputation from residents and their families as some of the most trusted senior living Littleton, CO and the surrounding area offers.

AI VS Doctor-led Medical Advice

The Harvard Medical School recently published an article discussing how patients rated AI’s information next to real doctors’ advice in terms of empathy. Following up on findings from the ChatGPT survey showing AI to be way more empathetic to patients, the author, Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing, says there is most likely more to consider. Currently AI does tasks such as “drafting doctor's notes, suggesting diagnoses; helping to read x-rays and MRI scans; and monitoring real-time health data including heart rate or oxygen level.”

Shmerling points out while AI’s surveyed responses were longer than the doctors, there is more to it than the “amount” related to patients’ including how accurate and up-to-date the information actually is. Another thing to consider is the answers the AI provided were not tested for fabrication. Therefore, experts advise it is probably premature to rely on AI answers to patients’ questions without solid proof of their accuracy and actual supervision by healthcare providers.

A recent University of Arizona Health Sciences’ AI study reports more than half of its participants didn’t fully trust AI-powered medical advice, but many more put faith in AI if it’s monitored and guided by human touch. The National Institutes of Health-funded study gave participants mock medical conditions and asked if they would prefer to have an AI system or a physical doctor handle their diagnosis and treatment, and under what circumstances. The study’s lead author, Marvin J. Slepian, MD, JD, Regents Professor of Medicine at the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the BIO5 Institute, explains the study has importance for both future and current medical decisions. However he says, “The onus will be on physicians and others in health care to ensure that information that resides in AI systems is accurate, and to continue to maintain and enhance the accuracy of AI systems as they will play an increasing role in the future of healthcare.”

MorningStar of Beaverton is one of the top senior living communities in the greater Portland area. With a wide choice of contemporary suites for independent living and assisted living, area seniors can get back to living life to the fullest without the worry of the upkeep of a home. Our memory care is guided by Lavender Sky, MorningStar’s proprietary program that guides our philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents. Contact us to set up a tour to the area’s finest senior living.

Source:

health.harvard.edu/blog/can-ai-answer-medical-questions-better-than-your-doctor-202403273028

healthsciences.arizona.edu/news/releases/would-you-trust-ai-doctor-new-research-shows-patients-are-split

How Poor Sleep Habits Affect Your Health

The American Heart Association offers a checklist of eight key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health. Life’s Essential 8 is designed to highlight things we can do to lower our risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems.

In 2022, the Association added sleep duration to the list as a component of heart health. They say the amount and quality of sleep can influence a person’s eating habits, mood, memory, internal organs and more.

One advantage to getting enough sleep is being more productive. After spending years working long hours to the detriment of a good night’s sleep, Ariana Huffington now says, “The irony is that a lot of people forgo sleep in the name of productivity. But in fact our productivity is reduced substantially when we’re sleep deprived.”

Professor of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Charles Czeisler, explains being sleep deprived can impair your abilities and is like being drunk. Poor sleep habits can cause you to eat more to feel more energetic, and may increase your risk for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

It is recommended adults get a solid 7 to 9 hours of sleep each day and a sleep routine will help you achieve this goal. Start by going to bed each night around the same time so you can wake up refreshed at the same time each morning. If possible, open your curtains to let in the morning sunshine or turn on the bedroom lights. Research still shows breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should consist of healthy foods.

Another thing to get your day off right is to take a few minutes each morning doing something like practicing mindfulness or yoga. The other Life’s Essential 8 include maintaining a healthy diet, fitness, quitting nicotine, losing weight, and watching your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk for diabetes.

If you are looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our home offers beautiful surroundings and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. Please see our website for more information about luxury senior living in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Online Games & Activities can Help Keep Your Brain Sharp

As we age, many of us find ourselves more absentminded and forgetful than we were in our younger years. Seeing someone unexpectedly from our past can result in recognizing the face but being unable to bring a name to mind. Experts say some lapses in memory are common as we age but encourage seniors to do cognitive activities to help stay sharp.

Brain games exercise your memory, attention, brain speed, people skills, intelligence and navigation just like a trip to the gym gives you a cardio workout and exercises your abs and quads. One good resource for such games is the AARP online site. It offers a variety of fun and entertaining games and puzzles such as daily crosswords, word games like scrabble, Sudoku and trivia as well as the opportunity to join a bridge, chess or backgammon game.

The New York Times offers the daily Wordl puzzle that gives your brain a quick workout along with several other word puzzles for Times’ subscription holders. Other programs offering brain games targeted to seniors that require a monthly or yearly subscription. In addition to the Internet, if you have an iPad or a tablet, you will find a number of challenging brain games apps.

At MorningStar of Arvada, our contemporary community offers seniors an engaging lifestyle for independent living and assisted living as well as trusted, compassionate memory care. Residents are treated to best-in-class meals, resort-style amenities and a wide array of wellness programs and activities providing senior-friendly activities and companionship with like-minded adults of a similar age. Our monthly calendar is loaded with brain challenging activities such as horticulture or painting classes, trivia and Pictionary games. Our video lectures such as April’s viewing of the Greatest Geological Wonders are a bit hit with residents. 

Activities not only offer opportunities for challenging your cognitive skills but meeting and socializing with friends while enjoying a good laugh together. Contact us to learn more about MorningStar of Arvada’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families can trust.

Connecting with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

A Yale Medicine neurologist offers advice on how to better connect with someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Carolyn Fredericks, MD., a specialist in cognitive and behavioral conditions, including Alzheimer’s, says it is not always helpful to correct a person with Alzheimer’s, and in most cases, it is nicer to just “enter their reality.”

Fredericks suggests instead of correcting the person when they get your name or someone else’s name incorrect, just go with it. After all, what difference does it really make? Also you don’t need to remind the person you answered their question an hour ago. Let it go and repeat the answer.

Going along with what the person says, and remaining calm and encouraging will help them remain calm. Research indicates someone with Alzheimer’s is typically most anxious about making mistakes or forgetting something they should know in the early stages of the disease. Moreover when they repeat a question, they are not trying to be difficult, so there is no reason to make them feel uncomfortable. If the person is unduly worried about something that is not true such as thinking things that go “missing” are being stolen, show compassion and focus on helping them find the items.

As long-term memories are more intact in people with Alzheimer’s and often are not affected until the later stages of the disease, spending time reminiscing about things from their childhood can be fun for you and the person. Even in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s, people find joy in listening to their favorite music or participating in creative projects. Be sure they get some exercise each day as it helps with anxiety and sleep. Lastly, Dr. Frederick says it is important for the family to construct a safety plan and recognize when it is no longer safe for the person to drive or use the stove when he/she is alone.

At MorningStar of Littleton, our Reflections Neighborhood is dedicated to providing compassionate, professional Alzheimer’s care to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia-related diseases. Lavender Sky, our programmatic approach to Memory Care represents our philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents. Our ambition under a Lavender Sky is to Enter, Embrace and Explore as we encourage and engage our most tender residents as well as help families to heal and hope again.

Along with Reflections Neighborhood’s 20 memory care suites, we have 65 contemporary suites across three-stories in studios, and one- and two-bedroom configurations for assisted living. Please contact us to schedule an in-person tour of the finest senior living Littleton, CO offers.

Source:

yalemedicine.org/news/alzheimers-disease-dementia-care

Protect Your Medicare Card like a Credit Card

The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association estimates last year’s annual Medicare insurance fraud was around $100 billion, and most likely much higher. While one in five beneficiaries say they have encountered potential Medicare fraud, there are precautions you can take to reduce or eliminate fraudulent claims starting with protecting your Medicare and Social Security cards and numbers like you do your credit cards.

Experts say don’t respond to a call, text or email asking you to provide your Medicare Number. They caution you to only show your Medicare card or give out your number to your doctor or people you know who should have it. To determine if you are a victim of fraud, examine your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or claims statements carefully for any discrepancies or additions of services or charges you did not receive. Another common scam is to try to get Medicare beneficiaries to sign up for drug plans that are not approved by Medicare.

If your Medicare card is stolen or you suspect fraud, report it as soon as possible to 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). It is important to know Medicare will never call to sell you anything or visit you at home. They will only call or contact you in limited situations to ask for personal information. One such person may be the agent who helped you sign up for a particular Medicare program or drug plan. You also may be contacted by Medicare if you left your number to report fraud or inconsistencies with your MSNs. 

At MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our contemporary-style 55+ community offers exceptional architecture and designs throughout with modern, spacious apartments and relaxing indoor/outdoor spaces such as patios, club lounges, fitness center, heated indoor saltwater pool and more. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 38 memory care suites.

Father’s Day Was First Officially Celebrated in 1910

Father’s Day was first officially celebrated in the United States on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. It then took another 58 years (in 1972) after President Woodrow Wilson had declared Mother’s Day to be an official holiday for dads to get their own official national holiday. This year Father’s Day is June 16th, as the holiday is celebrated on the third Sunday of the month.

The earliest public event honoring fathers was in 1908 at a West Virginia church. It was held in memory of 362 area men who had been killed in a tragic coal mine accident the year before. It was a one-time commemoration and not intended to be an annual holiday.

The first recognized celebration of all fathers took place at the Spokane, WA YMCA on June 19, 1910. It was organized by Sonora Smart Dodd. Her father, William Jackson Smart was a single parent who raised six children. Ms. Dodd had heard a sermon about the Mother’s Day celebration at Central Methodist Episcopal Church a year earlier and encouraged her church to have a similar event honoring fathers. She had wanted it to be on her father’s birthday, June 5th, but her church’s pastors needed more time to prepare sermons so it was held on the third Sunday of the month.

Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts and certainly deserve to have their “own day.” However, getting fathers nationally recognized was not as easy as it had been to get a designated national holiday for mothers. Throughout the years there were efforts to make it a national holiday but it never moved forward. It wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson issued a presidential proclamation honoring fathers, and designated the third Sunday as Father’s Day. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed the holiday into law.

For independent or assisted living in Peoria, AZ, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. We offer luxury senior living for the area’s beloved “mothers” and “fathers.” Our beautiful community is designed to meet residents’ every need. From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. Please see our website for more information.

 
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Downsizing for a Move to an Assisted Living Community

If your mom or dad has reached the time in their life where they need help with daily personal care activities, moving into an assisted living community is the perfect solution. You will have peace of mind knowing their needs are being met and they are safe and comfortable. However, as much of the task of helping them move will likely fall on your shoulders, you have probably begun to realize that paring back a lifetime’s worth of possessions is a bit overwhelming. Not to worry, there are many good books on the topic as well as useful tips on the Internet.

Organizing experts caution that the job can be complicated and fraught with emotion because as you see a pile of stuff to sort through and toss; your parents see treasures and memories. Begin by creating a list of things your parents will need at their new place (keep in mind the size) and adding in the treasured items and personal belongings they want to keep. If something is hard for them to part with, help them to think of a family member or friend they would like to give it to. Also, remind them if they sell the item, they can use the money toward something better suited for their new home such as a smaller couch or coffee table.

Now the experts recommend going from room to room and start sorting by keeping, tossing, or donating piles. In addition, rather than always asking your parents what they want to keep or get rid of, pare down the selection, and then ask them yes or no questions. Presorting items also helps to avoid keeping lots of multiple items.

By measuring the size of your parent’s new suite, you can create a floor plan to realistically show how well their furnishings will fit. Include the amount of cupboards and storage space they will have to help you know how much is too much. Remember you do not want the new place to be so crowded that they can barely move safely about.

Keep in mind that if your parent is moving into a community such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge, you will be treated to meals created by our Executive Chef served in our full-service dining room. Also, our well-designed suites come equipped with blinds, carpeting, and overhead lighting. Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful independent living, assisted living and memory care community.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

The Importance of Socialization for Older Adults

A UCSF Division of Geriatrics study found 43 percent of seniors report regularly experiencing loneliness. Mayo clinic psychologist, Dr. Craig Sawchuk, Ph.D., explains why this can be a problem. He says as “social animals by nature; we tend to function better when we’re in a community setting and being around others.”

Several studies report a link between social isolation and an increased risk of disease, including one from the Academy of Science, which found loneliness can lead to higher rates of poor physical and mental health. Health concerns for isolated adults include hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease.

It becomes harder for seniors who live alone to socialize as they get into their upper 70s or 80s as many stop driving and/or suffer from chronic health problems affecting their mobility. Other contributing issues to loneliness in the elderly may include the death of a spouse or close family members and friends.

To emphasize how important socialization is for older adults, the American Public Health Association explains the most effective way for seniors to improve their health is to increase socialization. They report “socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise.”

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social wellbeing. We provide everything seniors need for quality of life and to age in place safely and comfortably. Along with care and hospitality services, our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live fully productive lives.

In addition to independent and assisted living, we offer memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (up to a full month) so you can see if we are a good fit. Please contact us today for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, AZ.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Source: seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/the-mental-health-benefits-of-socializing-for-seniors/

Enjoy Healthy, Delicious Meals at MorningStar at Golden Ridge

Committed to providing the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ, MorningStar at Golden Ridge proudly takes dining to a new level with beautifully prepared meals served restaurant-style. We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why we put so much emphasis on ensuring our food service is A+.

Furthermore, we believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed within a community setting. When we break bread together, it is much more than just physical nutrients as it helps to bond us as a family and as friends.

To ensure our food service is both delicious and nutritious, we have our own professional chef who oversees all meal preparation. Residents enjoy seasonal menus that are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Meals are also modified to include an array of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat choices so that residents can self-manage any dietary restrictions.

Recognizing that nutrient-rich foods can help stimulate the appetite as well as support brain health, MorningStar meals are also prepared using ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These “super foods” include leafy greens, nuts, dark chocolate, acai berries, and Omega 3 fats. Most importantly, mealtime at MorningStar is a time for residents to relax and enjoy the company of fellow residents or family and friends.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities. Amenities include a bistro bar, fitness centers, theater/chapel, salon, and swimming pool with hot tub. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our community, inquire about availability and to set up a tour.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ.

Encourage Meaningful and Purposeful Activities for Those With Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia shouldn’t give up the activities they love. Rather they suggest the better option is to modify the activity to better fit their skill set and current ability.

However, even in the early stages of the disease, many withdraw from the activities they used to enjoy but experts say it is important to help them stay engaged. A modification can be as simple as reducing the number of people the person socializes with at a time. Smaller groups are less intimidating and reduce confusion. Also, it helps to let the person’s other family members and friends know about the diagnosis.

As the disease progresses, other changes will likely be in order. If you notice an activity that seems to make them restless or irritable, either modify so it brings them happiness or stop it altogether. For instance, while a person’s skills may decline, someone who plays the piano may still enjoy playing the simple pieces they learned years ago.

Dementia care specialists say setting up a daily routine is important and should include the things they like to do on their own such as setting the table or folding laundry and be done when the person seems to function the best. Remember to be flexible and include a range of creative, physical, social and spiritual activities that bring meaning and enjoyment into their life.

Along with independent living and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria, AZ offers specialized care to individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Our secure and loving Reflections Neighborhood can provide the care your family member needs at the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages where the highest level of care is required.

MorningStar’s compassionate caregivers use gentle, resident-directed methods to calm and awaken memories and to support each resident’s capabilities. Common techniques include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy as well as a range of meaningful and purposeful activities that incorporate art, dance, music, exercise and life skills. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/daily-care-plan

Protect Your Personal Information From Identity Theft

Identity theft is the illegal use of a  Social Security number, credit card or other personal information to person’scommit a crime. According to a report from Javelin Strategy & Research, identity fraud cost 40 million Americans a combined $43 billion in 2022. While this figure was $9 billion less than 2021, financial service providers and consumers should be as vigilant as ever about protecting personal identifying information.

Although financial institutions are doing what they can to protect our personal information from those who wish to fraudulently use it, we can also take steps to protect ourselves. The first tip is to never give your bank account and Social Security numbers to people over the phone. Many scammers claim to be from your bank or a government entity and tell the person they are trying to protect them, when in fact they are doing the opposite. Remember the Social Security office or your bank is not going to call you and ask for your number.

Another way to prevent identity theft is to not reply to phishing emails. These types of emails or text messages can contain official looking logos and promise free services or goods, lottery prizes or government grants. Others may tell you there is a problem with your bank or another company and they need information to settle the account. AARP says the security company, Valimail estimates 3.4 billion fake emails are sent out every day worldwide.

The US Government Office of Justice Programs says in the event of having your identity stolen:

• Place a fraud alert on your credit report.

• Close out accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.

• Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission.

• File a report with your local police department.

They recommend keeping a log of all your correspondence and actions taken to report the incident. This should include dates, names and phone numbers of who you contacted or reported the thief to as well as sending documents via certified mail. Keep a record of any expenses incurred in case you are entitled to restitution when the responsible party is caught.

For exceptional independent or assisted living, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria, Az. We offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our welcoming home has suites in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care to those with memory impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.