Dating as a Senior

If you are an older adult looking to get back into dating, you may have realized you need a bigger field of candidates to choose from other than what your family and friends can supply. In addition, dating can mean a lot of things to seniors. Someone may be looking for a companion to go to the movies or dinner with; others may be looking for a more intimate, long-term relationship; and some may want something in-between.

Research bears out our need for companionship with numerous studies touting the benefits of an active social life. Isolation and loneliness can lead to a higher risk of depression, and a happy, positive relationship can reduce physical and mental decline. The NIH reports on studies linking strong social ties to better heart health and less stress.

So what are the best ways to meet eligible singles? One way is to do it through an online dating app reserved for older adults; and most sites make it easy to get started. You will be asked for your email address and to fill out a questionnaire to narrow down your preferences and interests. Add a current picture of yourself; and you should be set to go.

However before you click the send button, here are a few safety tips you should know. Experts caution while your background info is the opportunity to talk about you, do not share too much personal information. Also check that the dating site discloses the way they keep your data safe. Your messages should be encrypted so only you and the recipient can read them. The site should provide scam detection and do criminal background checks including sex offenders.

At the senior living community of Arvada, we provide a robust social life for our residents. Our activities and programs include a wide range of interests, and comfortable common areas are great places to informally gather with friends or to make new ones. We offer independent living and assisted living in a choice of suites with kitchenettes, handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24/7 emergency call systems. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we offer memory care Arvada families can trust for their loved ones. Please contact us to learn more about our community and to schedule a tour.

Eggs May be an Important Brain Food

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains, choline is an essential nutrient our bodies need. Our brain and nervous systems use choline to regulate memory, mood, muscle control and other functions as well as help reduce inflammation. Choline is also used to form the membranes surrounding our body’s cells.

While we make a small amount of choline in our livers, most of it comes from the food we eat. Daily requirements for choline vary depending on age and gender. If a person’s levels drop too low, they may experience muscle and liver damage. Other problems can include deposits of fat in the liver known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] and damage to the liver.

Recent research reports a link between eating eggs, which contain choline, and a reduced risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists say they attribute the potential brain benefits to the choline in the yolk as well as vitamins B-6, B-12, folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein. Studies suggest these nutrients may help prevent brain shrinkage and delay cognitive decline. Other foods containing choline include meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products; some types of beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains; and cruciferous vegetables like brussels sprouts and cauliflower.

Drinking coffee may even be good for us as it contains antioxidants. Studies show 3 or 4 cups a day over a long period of time may reduce your risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Blueberries and other dark berries contain anthocyanins with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The spice turmeric has an active compound called curcumin, which research shows may reduce symptoms of depression and Alzheimer’s disease.

At MorningStar of Arvada, our senior living community provides a full range of amenities, services and people to support and enhance quality of life for our residents. Our best-in-class dining offers meals made with fresh ingredients as well as known brain foods. MorningStar’s wellness programs and activities keep residents engaged and stimulated. Our Reflections Neighborhood offers memory care Arvada, CO families can trust to provide loved ones with the finest care. Please contact us to set up a tour in assisted living.

Source:

ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Choline-

healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods#fish

Prescription Drugs & Seniors

The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reported in their 2021-2022 National Health Interview Survey that an estimated 89 percent of adults over 65 were taking prescription drugs to manage chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure and diabetes. They also found some of those seniors were having a hard time paying for prescribed drugs.

The survey showed 4 percent of older adults who were prescribed medication did not take it due to cost; and the expense prevented another 3.4 percent of adults from taking their medications per doctors’ orders. More recently, a 2023 survey from the journal JAMA, reports 1 in 5 older adults were not taking prescribed medications due to cost. Also a 2024 AARP survey found “nearly half of adults age 50-plus have skipped filling their prescriptions — or know someone who has — due to cost.”

Many of those not taking their prescribed medications or taking less of the amount prescribed are dealing with several chronic conditions. Some report having no drug insurance coverage; and the problem is reflected in the fact that statistics show the majority of adults age 50 and above are paying out of pocket for prescriptions drugs.

Thankfully over the last few years there have been a number of steps taken to at least make things easier for seniors on Medicare. Insulin copays were capped at $35 for a month’s supply; and many vaccines including shingles and RSV are free to Medicare enrollees. Next year everyone with a Medicare prescription drug plan will have co-pays capped at $2,000 annually. Another plan called “Extra Help,” targeted toward low-income seniors, will expand eligibility requirements in an effort to help those seniors having trouble paying for necessary medications.

MorningStar of Arvada’s senior living provides an environment that allows residents to safely and comfortably age in place. Our community offers independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors can rely on with extensive services, amenities and wellness programs and activities. Contact us to set up an in-person tour.

Sources: aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-2024/more-older-adults-need-prescriptions.html

The Benefits of Built-in Companionship

As we age, our social circle can start to shrink. We may have lost a spouse and/or siblings as well as good friends to death or illnesses. Our adult children may have moved away. Many of us have left the workforce or are working from home or part-time. In some cases due to failing eyesight or other medical conditions, an older adult may not feel comfortable driving, especially after dusk or in bad weather. All of this can reduce opportunities for socializing.

The DailyCaring website explains, “Loneliness has a bigger negative impact on senior health than many people realize. It can increase the risk of depression, poor nutrition, cognitive decline, and more.” They add that fortunately, there are a variety of ways to prevent loneliness in seniors including assisted living communities.

The Journals of Gerontology conducted a survey that found well-designed senior assisted living communities can maximize socialization, happiness, and quality of life while decreasing the risk for depression and dementia. Most have plenty of common areas for relaxed gathering as well as more formal programming for group games, dances, concerts, field trips and more.

The friendly social interactions typical in assisted living can also lead to better nutrition as residents in many seniors communities have the pleasure of eating together. Furthermore some studies suggest a steady social life can reduce blood pressure and pain symptoms.

At senior living communities like MorningStar of Arvada, we like to call our convenient opportunities to socialize as “built-in companionship.” Our signature wellness programs and activities are designed around the interests and needs of our residents. They focus on physical, intellectual, spiritual or social connections, which allow residents to stay engaged and productive. If you have an interest that our programs do not address; we encourage you to go ahead and start a club.

Our independent living and assisted living Arvada includes 112 spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom floorplans to meet the needs of the most discerning seniors. For seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized, individualized memory care Arvada, CO families know they can trust. Please contact us to schedule a tour of our gorgeous community.

Source: dailycaring.com/how-socialization-in-assisted-living-can-improve-senior-health/

Avoid Excessive Fees When Traveling by Air

If you have traveled by air recently, you probably noticed your initial ticket price going up as you complete the reservation process. Airlines are now charging for everything from where your seat is located, or just a seat; to carry-ons and checked bags for departure and return trips. With a little smart planning, travel experts say baggage fees are one area you can easily cut down on. To avoid the temptation of packing stuff you don’t really need just because you have the space, start with a smaller bag. This not only keeps you from dragging around suitcases full of stuff you may never use, it saves money.

Eliminating any baggage fees on a quick weekend trip can be done by utilizing a “personal item,” which is almost always a freebie, but be sure to check with your carrier’s definition of size. Backpacks or large totes typically qualify as a personal item. Especially for seniors, there are benefits to traveling this way. You do not need to worry about lifting a heavy carry-on into the overhead bin, getting off the plane is easier, and there is no need to wait for a checked bag.

For mid-length trips you will most likely need to go up to at least a carry-on bag. However, again analyze what you will really use. As you also would do with a small personal carry-on, take the time to plan outfits that can be mixed and matched, are wrinkle-resistant and/or quick drying items you can wash out in a sink. It can be tough to reduce footwear but try to limit yourself to three pairs, one for comfort, one more formal and one for the beach or lounging about.

All toiletries need to be travel-size and fit into a clear quart-size bag to not only meet restrictions but save space. If you don’t use it daily, remember you can always purchase it at your destination. Use packing cubes or do the roll and fold as either saves space. Limit electronics to your phone and maybe an e-reader.

Experts recommend after you have gathered what you will bring, reassess and remove any unnecessary items. If you are traveling with a spouse or partner and are doing a longer trip, try using one checked bag between the both of you and utilize your one allowed personal item for things you would not want to be separated from.

MorningStar of Arvada is a vibrant senior living community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors and their families can count on. Our selection of 112 bright suites for independent and assisted living includes spacious studios, and one- and two-bedroom floorplans to meet residents’ budgets and preferences. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we provide all-inclusive memory care designed to elevate and celebrate life. Please contact us to set up a tour so we can show off our beautiful retirement communities.

Home Care Cost May Surprise You

A recent article from the Wall Street Journal found the cost of in-home care has risen extensively over the last several years. They explain in addition to the costs of in-home care; medical advances that extend lives but require ongoing care and the growing number of people over 65, have resulted in new pressures on families. Progressive diseases like Alzheimer’s and other chronic conditions can require extensive assistance. The Center for Retirement Research at Boston College found approximately one-fourth of those 65 years and older will eventually require significant support and services for more than three years.

For many who are trying to keep a loved one at home rather than place them in a care facility, experience challenges like sleep deprivation and constant worry. In an AAPR survey of caregivers, four out of ten said they rarely or never feel relaxed. Other problems created by caring for a loved one at home include having to drain savings and/or taking out equity loans to cover the costs of modifying the home to accommodate needs as well as paying for help. In cases like Alzheimer’s this can include around-the-clock care.

The Journal article cites statistics from Genworth, a long-term-care insurance company, that states the national median cost of a home health aide, hired through an agency, is now $33 dollars an hour. In 2015 the same care cost $20 an hour. More surprising to many is the fact that when a person requires 24/7 care, the median cost is around $290,000 per year. Genworth says this is more than double the annual median costs of a private room in a nursing home and four times the annual median cost of a private room in assisted living.

At MorningStar of Beaverton, we are honored to offer area seniors the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. The list of our retirement communities services and amenities is long and are intended to enhance quality of life and provide carefree retirement years. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 38 one-bedroom or shared suites for trusted memory care for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Contact us to learn more about availability and ask about our late summer savings.

Tips to Reduce Stress

Researchers say stress can be harmful to our brains and bodies. Whether it is short-term stress from a work deadline or long-term stress from worrying about a loved one who is very ill, it triggers a release of adrenaline and cortisol hormones. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released during the body's "fight or flight" response, and increases our heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. The effects can last up to an hour.

Cortisol increases blood sugar levels, which provides the body with fast energy but over time elevated levels can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as increase the risk of heart disease and weight gain. Over time, it can also damage the part of the brain affecting thinking, memory and learning. These adverse reactions show why the body is not easily able to handle high levels of stress day after day.

While we all feel stress at one time or another, some of us get overwhelmed with it. It can prevent us from doing the things we want and keep us from moving forward. The good news is health experts have some useful tips we can all practice to help mitigate unwelcome stress.

One easy and enjoyable habit is to take a walk in a green space. Studies show being around nature helps relieve tension, decreases frustration and offers a sense of calm. Getting outside and getting exercise is also good for relieving tension.

Laughing is another tip to relieve stress. Watch a show or a video clip that gives you a good belly laugh. Giving or getting a heartfelt hug has also been shown to reduce a person’s heart rate and trigger the release of oxytocin, the “feel good” hormone. Studies show socializing or volunteering strengthens immunity and lowers inflammation.

Other stress reducing activities include practicing breathing techniques as well as the simple act of petting a cat or dog. A square of dark chocolate not only contains healthy flavonols but opens blood vessels, reduces blood pressure and releases feel-good endorphins. Finally, don't forget the importance of a good night’s sleep. 

MorningStar at Beaverton is a vibrant senior living community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our community has 66 well-designed suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet) and excels in providing comfort, services, amenities and location for a carefree lifestyle. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Be sure to ask about late summer savings up to $8000! Call for details!

Looking for Senior Living in Peoria, Arizona?

Now more than ever, older adults are recognizing the many benefits senior living provides. For many it means an improved quality of life, freedom from the maintenance and upkeep of a home, and opportunities to learn new things and meet new friends. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer an array of senior living options, care and hospitality services, amenities, wellness programs and activities.

For seniors who require a little help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s assisted living offers the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living life to the fullest. With 65 suites in a range of floor plans, residents are provided with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management. In addition, we offer all-day, restaurant-style dining; onsite amenities such as fitness centers, bistro bar, theater/chapel, salon, life enrichment rooms, etc.; scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more. Residents also enjoy participating in daily activities and special events.

For active seniors, we offer 38 Casitas, quadruplexes with attached one-car garages. Independent living residents enjoy carefree retirement years with an array of entertaining and enriching activities, luxury amenities and a five-star meal service. In addition, priority access to our nearby assisted living and memory care suites gives you the security of knowing extra supportive care is close by—if you ever need it.

If a loved one suffers from memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, we provide holistic memory care designed to ensure individual needs are met. Our dedicated team truly understands the manifestations of brain disease in all forms of dementia and feels privileged to walk alongside residents and their families on this unexpected journey.

Since MorningStar’s beginning, we have considered it an honor and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living Peoria AZ and are proud to have earned the trust of both residents and families within our 40+ communities across eleven states. Visit our website and inquire about availability and pricing or to schedule a tour to see firsthand our beautiful community.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement “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 exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.

The Safe Use of Prescription Drugs

It may surprise you to know according to the Department of Health and Human Services, fifty-five percent of seniors are non-compliant with prescription drug orders and do not take medication as prescribed by their doctors. It is a serious problem as approximately 200,000 older adults are hospitalized annually due to adverse drug reactions.

Medical professionals say there are steps seniors and those who care for an elderly loved one can do to help lessen the problem. To start with, take medications as prescribed including the correct dosage and time, with or without food, and never crush a pill into a powder. Especially if you see multiple doctors, be sure to always bring a list and dosage of all medications you are taking including non-prescription and herbal supplements.

Experts say using the same pharmacy can help reduce drug interactions, and to be sure to read the warnings regarding adverse reactions. Periodically review your prescriptions with your doctors to make sure you are taking the right dosage and still need the medications. To see if any meds you take have a warning for usage in the elderly, check the American Geriatric Society’s Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults. It is also recommended you properly dispose of older medications and drugs you no longer take.

If you are on medications to treat diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to continue to test your glucose level and BP numbers. Other drugs may be prescribed with the understanding you will have your blood tested periodically and it is important to follow through as too high or too low of a dosage can cause problems.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a beautiful senior living community in Peoria, Arizona offering independent living, assisted living and memory care. We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a responsive, loving staff. Care services include medication management by a Medication Care Manager/QMAP. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar’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 the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.


Sources: seniorsafetyreviews.com/13-medication-safety-tips/
agingcare.com/articles/medication-problems-elderly-people-have-146111.htm

As You Age, Choosing Healthy Foods is Even More Important

While everyone benefits from eating a healthy diet, it is even more important for children and seniors. In terms of seniors, doctors explain their calorie requirements decline so the foods they do consume each day need to be nutritious. Choosing healthy foods helps maintain strength, bone mass and cognitive function. In addition, targeted foods can help stave off medical conditions such osteoporosis and age-related muscle mass loss from sarcopenia.

Getting the essential vitamins and minerals you need from food that doesn’t include excessive calories, sugar, fat and preservatives can be challenging. This is where focusing on foods especially high in nutrients is a great way to maintain your health and weight. Experts say while there is no scientifically agreed definition for “superfoods,” they are generally considered to be essential functional foods that are nutritionally dense.

One of the food groups known as superfoods is dark, leafy vegetables. High in antioxidants, they help remove free radicals from our body (unstable molecules that can build up in cells and cause damage to other cells). Another superfood is Brussel sprouts, which is from the cruciferous family of vegetables that includes broccoli and cauliflower, which are also good examples of nutrient dense foods. All are high in fiber and contain a number of minerals such folate as well as vitamin C and vitamin K.

Berries are superfoods that contain antioxidants and polyphenols, which are compounds typically found in plant-based foods. Blueberries contain high levels of vitamins C and K; along with phytochemicals and antioxidants to help promote bone and brain health (studies have found blueberries may reduce the risk of age-related memory decline). Strawberries are among the 20 highest antioxidant fruits and a good source of manganese and potassium; and eight strawberries provide more vitamin C than an orange. They also contain minerals including calcium, iron, and folate along with antioxidants called anthocyanins.

Salmon and other fatty fish like tuna and sardines are considered superfoods as they are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help decrease your risk for heart disease. They also contain a high amount of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and strength.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers seniors a choice of independent and assisted living with a selection of Casitas and suites; community amenities; a delicious, healthy dining service and a complement of wellness programs and activities. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we provide trusted care in our Reflections Neighborhood. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

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, Arizona.

Protect Your Medicare Number to Prevent Fraud

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.

Looking for exceptional senior living in the Phoenix area? MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and community. This is made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a lifestyle second to none. Please contact us or visit 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 of senior living under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Enjoy Better Health by Keeping Good Medical Records

Studies show people who keep good personal health records enjoy better health. Researchers say it may be due to the fact the individual as well as their caregivers have a better understanding of their overall health. Moreover, quick access to a person’s medical history helps care providers make better informed decisions regarding needed care.

John Hopkins Medical explains a good way to start organizing your medical history is to write down the name and contact information of all your healthcare providers. Be sure to add what role they play in your care.

In terms of paper medical documents, they say paperwork older than a year can be filed away. Current records should be kept where they are easily accessible. These should include a family medical history of grandparents, parents, siblings and other pertinent relatives. Your personal history should include all current medical conditions and how they are being treated. Additionally, include past surgeries and procedures as well as hospitalizations and accidents. Doctor summaries and notes should also be in your file.

File copies of test results such as blood work, cholesterol, MRIs, bone density scans, mammograms or prostate screenings. If a test is done regularly, keep copies of past results together to help you track changes from year to year.

Another important piece of information is a list of all medications and herbal supplements you take. The John Hopkins’s article suggests using the pharmacy’s printout from each of your prescriptions as it contains the name, date and dosage of the medication.

Insurance forms should be included in your records. Legal documents like a living will and medical power of attorney should be kept with your medical records. Lastly, if you are part of a large hospital system, be sure to activate your personal medical chart as it will have information of test results, upcoming appointments, doctors’ notes and more.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a beautiful, vibrant 55+ community in Peoria, Arizona. Our independent living Casitas offer active seniors a high-end residential environment with an array of amenities, hospitality services, wellness programs and activities. MorningStar’s assisted living is designed to give residents the help they need so they can live life to the fullest. For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers all-inclusive, compassionate care. Contact us for more information.

MorningStar offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in our staff to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/medical-records-getting-organized

MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Assisted Living

If you have been relying on a piecemeal approach to care for your elderly parent’s various needs, you may want to consider moving them into an assisted living community. If cost is the reason you have not considered community living, you may not be aware that assisted living can be more affordable than in-home care services. Experts say if you are paying for more than 40 hours of weekly care, all told, assisted living is probably less expensive.

Moreover, the peace of mind you get knowing trained care managers are always available to help navigate changes in your loved one’s health is priceless. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we provide residents a beautiful home along with a lifestyle of comfort and wellbeing. In addition, our team is committed to caring for seniors and ensuring they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

As an assisted living resident, your parents will have an individualized care plan created just for them after an extensive interview process with our Wellness Director. It includes an assessment of their current health as well as a full review of their medical history. Additionally, we routinely re-evaluate the needs of our residents and update care plans as needed. Monthly costs are based on the level of care (we have five levels), along with various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, that are priced a la carte.

Our contemporary suites are ready to move into and all new residents need to do is bring their furnishings and personal items. We provide the rest including three daily tasty and nutritious meals, a 24/7 care staff, full-time licensed nurse, scheduled transportation and much more. And in case you wondered, MorningStar is pet friendly. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

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, Arizona.

Products That Improve Quality of Life for Older Adults

It seems as if every day the market offers more and more tech devices, gadgets and mobility aids designed to keep older adults moving and give them as independent a lifestyle as possible. Mobility aids include everything from canes and walkers to fall prevention items, wheelchairs, personal scooters, powered wheelchairs, transfer devices and more. The range of products is huge as in the example of walkers. While there are two basic types, standard or rolling (sometimes called rollators); the selection is varied and includes many options and add-ons such as seats and storage baskets.

Technology devices include a variety of products like health monitoring systems and cognitive aids to keep seniors safer and more connected. Today’s SOS alerts systems and fall detectors enable seniors to get help when and where they need it. Amplification devices make it easier to hear the TV, and phones are designed to be easy to use and see. Electronic medication reminders help seniors stay on track with daily meds.

Products such as shower chairs, grab bars and raised toilet seats can make a bathroom safer for seniors and help avoid falls. Ergonomic, adaptive kitchens tools are designed for seniors with arthritis and weak hand grip strength. These include specially designed bottle, cap and jar openers; and scooped plates and bowls to reduce movement.

Adaptive, light-weight tools for gardening enthusiasts also make it easier to dig in the soil and reduce hand and wrist fatigue while weeding. Raised beds and trellises eliminate the need to get down on the ground, and a rolling gardening chair cart makes it easier to get around. Thick kneeling pads are designed to more comfortably knee or sit on the ground, a few even offer cup holders and pockets for tools. Check out the Internet for other useful items.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers stylish independent and assisted living Casitas and suites that allow seniors to comfortably and securely age in place while enjoying luxury amenities, wellness programs, activities and built-in companionship. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful community.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on assisted living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.