Why Arm Strength is Important for Seniors

We know balance exercises protect older adults’ safety and stability by preventing falls as well as helping maintain independence. The Harvard Medical School explains keeping arm strength should also be a goal for seniors.

The fact is as early as our mid-thirties, arm strength and overall muscles start to decline and continue to do so around one percent each year thereafter. Once we reach our sixties, experts say arm strength is declining by as much as 3 percent each year, and not only reduces our range of motion but increases our risk for injuries.

Functional strength improves quality of life, and having a strong upper body is important. Maintaining and/or building up arm strength benefits our bones and balance as well as prevents falls. Experts point to two important muscles that control our arm movements: biceps, the muscles located on the upper arm; and triceps, the muscles at the back of the upper arm. Both sets of muscles help us lift, carry and push.

Improving arm strength is easy to do at home and doesn’t require fancy gym equipment. Check with the Harvard Medical School or other sources on the Internet to find examples of exercises targeted toward seniors. To get started, all you need are a pair of two or five pound weights depending on your size and/or condition. As you gain strength, you can move up to heavier weights. However before beginning any new exercise, please check with your healthcare provider.

At the MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, we believe in providing seniors an all-encompassing environment for residents’ well-being and safely to comfortably age in place. Our community offers a full fitness room, spa room, massage room and a range of fun programming to enhance fitness. 

For independent living and assisted living, we offer 66 well-designed suites in a variety of floorplans including studios and one- and two-bedrooms. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases 38 all-inclusive memory care suites. Contact us to learn more about one of the area’s finest senior living communities and ask us about setting up an in-person tour to get to know us better.

Risky OTC Drugs for Seniors

All too often people think of over-the-counter drugs as being safe and not having the side-effects or drug interactions their prescription drugs might have. Experts say this attitude could put you at risk as many over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are not as harmless as we think, especially as we age. AARP recently cited a statistic showing as many as 178,000 hospitalizations a year are caused by a reaction to OCT medications and adults 65 years and older were more commonly harmed.

One reason older adults are more vulnerable to adverse outcomes are many already take several prescription drugs. A report from the Lown Institute, a non-profit organization, reported nearly half of adults 65 years and older take five (known as polypharmacy) or more prescription drugs daily. Another 20 percent over 65 take 10 or more daily.

This increases the risk of interactions when taking an OTC medication for pain relief, stomach issues, allergies or other needs. In addition, the AARP article explains as we age, our bodies lose muscle and gain fat, which slows down the process of getting rid of medications. One of the organs responsible for processing medication is the kidneys, which start to work less effectively to filter and eliminate waste causing medications to build up. Aging livers also work less effectively to break down medications.

Common OTCs like acetaminophen (generic name for Tylenol) can cause damage to the liver. Ann M. Hester, M.D., a board-certified internal medicine physician based in Highland, Maryland explains overuse of acetaminophens is the leading cause of deadly liver failure. Seniors on blood thinners should be aware that ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) OTCs drugs may result in stomach bleeding and ulcers. Moreover doctors no longer recommend people take a daily aspirin as a preventive measure toward heart disease as it too may cause stomach bleeding.

People with high blood pressure should be aware that decongestants containing phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine like Sudafed can increase blood pressure. It can also cause problems to combine an OTC pain reliever with a decongestant as it too raises blood pressure putting the person at risk for a stroke; and men with prostrate issues are at risk for urinary problems. There are other OTCs that seniors should be wary of so before you take one, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we provide a vibrant retirement communities to comfortably and safely age in place with independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families can trust. Along with resort-style amenities, wellness programs and nutritional meals, we offer medication management to help ensure residents get the proper medications they need. Contact us to set up a tour.

aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-2023/otc-medications-risky-after-50/

Diet May Play a Role in a Future Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis

While there is lots of data on how lifestyle habits impact our health, a new study reinforces a link between ultra-processed foods and the increase in a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes. The study from the University College London analyzed the intake of ultra-processed foods and health outcomes in more than 310,000 Europeans over a period of ten years.

This deserves attention as our country’s research shows “about 60% of daily caloric intake for Americans comes from consuming ultra-processed foods.” Moreover according to the CDC, the number of Americans with diabetes or prediabetes continues to rise. They state 38.7 million people or 11.6 percent of the population has diabetes, and another 97.6 million people aged 18 years or older (38 percent of the adult U.S. population) has prediabetes.

Researchers say the problem with ultra-processed food is they include additives and/or industrial processed and novel types of fats, proteins and carbs a home cook wouldn’t use. Samuel Dicken, BA Hons (Cantab.), MSc, clinical scientist and doctoral researcher at the Centre for Obesity Research in the Division of Medicine at University College London, and lead author of the study explained to Medical News Today, “Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, they’re highly accessible, cheap, convenient, and heavily marketed.” He says just take a look at grocery shelves filled with ultra-processed foods like breakfast cereals, snacks, plant-based alternatives and sugary drinks.

Despite the study showing the more ultra-processed food a person consumed, the higher the risk for developing type 2 diabetes; the study also had good news. It reported participants who altered their diet by replacing 10 percent of ultra-processed foods with 10 percent of minimally processed foods reduced their diabetes risk by 8%.

Experts say to improve our diet; we should eat more fruits and vegetables, limit drive-through meals and cook healthy meals at home. Also when grocery shopping, read labels; the longer the list, the more likely it is ultra-processed regardless of claims of low fat or high fiber.

At the MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, we pride ourselves on offering residents a delicious dining service based on lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, and other healthy ingredients. Our lovely community offers area seniors the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us to set up an in-person tour.

 
Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cutting-ultra-processed-food-consumption-could-lower-type-2-diabetes-risk

Open Enrollment Period for Medicare

On October 15th, Medicare begins open enrollment for all new enrollees and anyone currently on Medicare who would like to make changes to their care plan. The period runs through December 10th and Medicare advises this is the time for all enrollees to review their current plan.

Medicare.gov suggests looking at several things to see if you can save money or find better coverage, or both. Begin by logging into your secure account and look to see if there will be any changes to your current plan next year. Use the estimated "Yearly Drug & Premium Cost” sheet to compare your current coverage for drugs and pharmacies to other options available in your area to see if you can reduce your costs.

If you are new to Medicare, you should know about screenings and doctor visits that are available for free. The first is a welcome to Medicare visit that is a basic check-up to update and review your medical and personal history as well as current medications. If lab tests are ordered, depending on your Medicare plan, you may be responsible for up to 20 percent of the costs.

Medicare also pays for a yearly wellness visit. This is not a physical examination but rather a discussion on your current health needs and any changes you have experienced or can expect. Again, depending on your plan, diabetes, cholesterol, lung, prostate, colorectal cancers and other screenings are free. Many of the CDC’s recommended vaccines are also free.

If you are on Social Security, you will be interested to know the Social Security Administration just announced the monthly COLA for 2025. Beneficiaries will receive a 2.5 percent increase in their monthly payments next year. This is the lowest cost-of-living-adjustment in the last four years and reflects a decrease in inflationary costs.

MorningStar of Arvada offers the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors and their families have come to trust. Our care-free lifestyle offers seniors the freedom to pursue life-long interests, explore new hobbies and make new friends. A complement of wellness programs and activities promote healthier, more purposeful lives; and all-day, restaurant-style dining provides delicious, tasty meals. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we provide all-inclusive memory care that respects the dignity of our residents and finds a way to celebrate life. Contact us to learn more, and ask about setting up a tour to see how we are a step above other senior living communities.

Source : aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-2023/free-medicare-services.html

What to Know before You Start Managing a Parent’s Finances

There can be a number of reasons an adult child begins managing the finances of their elderly parent or another senior loved one. It may be the unpleasant surprise of finding a stack of unopened, unpaid bills. It could be noticing their confusion with making plans and/or carrying out those plans. Whatever the reason, once a parent is no longer willing or able to handle their finances, it might be time to step in and lend a hand.

Millions of Americans provide some level of caregiving duties to an elderly relative including managing their finances. If it is now up to you, experts say take the time to get organized. After that your first priority should be to pay overdue bills. If bills are paid online, make sure the amounts going out are in-line with costs. Check credit card statements and bank accounts to ensure there are no unexpected or unnecessary charges. If the person has moved into a senior living community, cancel payments to cable service, etc.

If your role as money manager will be on-going, having your loved one’s mail forwarded to your home will make things easier. If they don’t have automated payments set up for things like taxes and other payments, set it up. Becoming a durable Power of Attorney will allow you to add your name to a joint account. It will remain in effect even if the person loses the ability to make their own decision due to a disease such as Alzheimer’s.

In order to avoid questions and any conflict, be transparent in all of your transactions. Keep a complete record of expenditures and receipts as well as income. Include the person in the decision making as much as possible; and if you or your parents have any questions, consult an elder care attorney or accountant. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, we provide an engaging, vibrant atmosphere where seniors safely and comfortably age in place. Along with smartly-designed suites in a range of floorplans and configurations, our independent living and assisted living offers luxury amenities, tasty meal service, and purposeful wellness programs and activities. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we provide memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. Contact us to set up an in-person tour. 

Seniors & Knee Pain

As we age, our knees take a beating. We use them to walk, stand and climb stairs, and they are used to get us up from a sitting or lying down position. When our knees hurt, everyday tasks are harder to do. Chronic knee pain is often a form of arthritis that occurs when the cushioning cartilage protecting the knee joints starts to wear down. As more cartilage wears away, the space between the bones narrows resulting in bone rubbing against bone.

Knee arthritis is a deteriorating condition, and in addition to pain, can cause deformities such as knock knees or bowlegs. Experts explain there are three forms of arthritis that affect the knee. The first is a degenerative joint disease called osteoarthritis; another is the autoimmune disease known as rheumatoid arthritis; and finally post-traumatic knee arthritis that happens with a history of injury or trauma.

Factors increasing your risk for knee arthritis include the wear and tear that comes from age, being overweight, heredity, gender, and health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, hemochromatosis (high levels of iron in the blood) and vitamin D deficiency. Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis, severity of pain, a person’s age and other factors. Non-surgical treatments include injections, walking aids and bracing. Surgical treatments include total and partial knee replacements along with other solutions. If you experience chronic knee pain, talk to your doctor about a personalized plan to address your needs.

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and it is our privilege to serve those who first served us. Our retirement communities offer stylish options for independent living and assisted living with 112 bright suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans (some as large as 1374 square feet). Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides memory care Arvada, CO families trust to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Please contact us to schedule a tour to see firsthand our loving retirement communities.

Source:

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-arthritis

Common Causes of Dizziness

Doctors say dizziness is a common complaint of older adults. Symptoms may include vertigo (feels like the room is spinning); light-headedness; faintness and weakness; and nausea. While confusing and uncomfortable to sufferers, experts say it’s rarely a sign of anything serious or life-threatening, and is generally treatable. However if you experience acute, prolonged dizziness, especially if accompanied with symptoms such as chest pains, passing out and/or severe headache; seek immediate medical attention.

Most causes of dizziness are from an inner ear disturbance, motion sickness, medications, or other conditions of poor health. To diagnose the problem, your doctor will want to know how long your dizziness lasts and other symptoms you may be having. Medications with the known side-effect of dizziness include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers.

The Mayo Clinic explains inner-ear disorders send signals from the inner ear that aren't consistent with what your eyes and sensory nerves are receiving. Vertigo may result as the brain works to try and sort out the confusion. One common inner ear problem is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The condition comes on with sudden movements of the head that cause vertigo and is treated with certain maneuvers and medications like meclizine (an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness and dizziness).

Meniere’s disease is another inner ear condition and is the result of a fluid built-up in the inner ear. Symptoms include long-term vertigo caused by things like too much salt in the diet, coffee, alcohol and stress, as well as viral infections and congestion. Treatment includes altering your diet and medications to relieve fluid build-up.

Dizziness can also be caused by migraines, neurological conditions, dehydration, low blood sugar and other conditions. It is important to remember that dizziness can increase your risk for a fall. If the condition persists, talk to your doctor who can help narrow down the causes of your dizziness and to prescribe the appropriate treatment.

At MorningStar of Arvada, our senior living community offers 112 bright independent living and assisted living suites to comfortably and securely age in place without giving up any of your freedom or choices. We are also proud to provide the most trusted memory care Arvada, CO offers to area seniors and their families. Contact us to schedule a tour to experience firsthand our beautiful, loving community. 

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/symptoms-causes/syc-20371787

Start Your Day With a Healthy Breakfast

Growing up, most of our mothers told us it wasn’t healthy to skip breakfast. While we listened, many of us still went off to school without eating anything. Based on current research, it turns out our mother’s advice was right again, and eating breakfast is good for us for several reasons.

Registered Dietician Erin Palinski-Wade explains when we eat a healthy breakfast upon rising in the morning; it helps regulate our appetite for the rest of the day. If we break our nightly fast with a good meal, we are less likely to indulge in sugary or fat-laden food later in the morning. A healthy breakfast also helps to prevent blood sugar highs and lows and Palinski-Wade says this is important for diabetics as well as the rest of us.

While many breakfast foods such as cereal, baked goods, and granola bars are high in sugar and refined grains, experts say we should refuel our body each morning with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Protein makes us feel fuller and keeps us from later snacking on unhealthy foods. Eggs, yogurt, sausage, and peanut butter spread on whole wheat toast are good sources of protein. Fiber helps our digestive system work well and is found in oatmeal and whole grain cereals. Many meals can be partly prepared the night before to make your morning routine easier.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, senior living we provide a wide range of services and amenities including beautifully prepared, nutritious meals. Created by our Executive Chef and largely prepared from scratch, meals are served restaurant-style in our attractive dining room. Menus include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat options for residents to self-manage. Residents also enjoy a bistro bar, fitness centers, salon, theatre/chapel, library, wellness programs and activities. For more information about exceptional senior living in Peoria, Arizona, please visit our website.

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 senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/does-eating-breakfast-help-you-lose-weight

Why Assisted Living is Often Better Than Living Alone

Many older adults are pleasantly surprised to discover that moving to an assisted living community is not the worst thing to happen to them. In fact, statistics show that for many seniors it is a healthier, more agreeable alternative to living alone. The reason some seniors are initially reluctant to make the move is that they are unaware of the significant changes that have occurred in senior living over the years especially in terms of care options and amenities.

Today’s communities like MorningStar at Golden Ridge offer assisted living that is geared toward meeting aging adult’s physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. Also, for many seniors, offered a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services. This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.

For seniors living alone, assisted living provides the opportunity for socializing whether it is with planned activities or in common areas designed to encourage relaxed interactions. Even if you are someone who values your privacy, community living offers the benefit of private suites with the comfort of having others around.

Another reason you may want to consider is that communities such as MorningStar are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were. To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we also provide scheduled transportation and planned outings to a variety of places such as shopping, parks or cultural events. Furthermore, for many older adults cooking and preparing meals is difficult and we solve that problem by providing tasty, nutritional daily meals. Please contact us to set up a tour to determine if assisted living may be the right decision for you or your loved one.

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

Caring for a Person With Alzheimer’s Disease

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease can be a time-consuming job. As the disease is progressive and symptoms worsen over time, the person’s needs also evolve. Things they used to do for themselves may no longer be possible or safe. Moreover, experts say like many older adults, a person with Alzheimer’s is likely to experience health changes over time. Therefore, it is important he/she continues to get routine checkups with their primary care physician as well as with any specialists they may be seeing.

The National Institute on Aging (NIH) says some of the problems caregivers should look for are signs of fever, or sickness like the flu or pneumonia. They say a fever could be signs of infection, dehydration caused by lack of fluids, heat stroke or even constipation. When taking a person’s temperature, use a digital thermometer rather than a glass one as the person might bite down on the glass and break it. Let their doctor know right away if they do have a fever. To help prevent serious illness from flu or pneumonia, have the person get a yearly flu shot and a pneumonia vaccine if recommended.

Dehydration can occur in people with Alzheimer’s as they may forget to drink fluids throughout the day. Caregivers should look for signs of dry mouth, dizziness and rapid heart rate. Experts say dehydration can even cause hallucinations; however, they are also a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease.

As the disease progresses, the person will most likely need help brushing their teeth. It is important to look for any sores in the mouth or oblivious signs of dental problems.

NIH cautions caregivers to be on the lookout for signs of pain as the person may not have the ability to tell you. They recommend watching the person’s face for outward signs of pain, or sudden changes in their behavior such as yelling or striking out. If you are not sure what is happening, call their doctor for help.

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 35 suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our loving community in Peoria, Arizona is staffed by a team of individuals who understand the unique needs of each resident in assisted living and deliver that care with compassion and thoughtfulness. Please visit our website or contact us 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 senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving/alzheimers-disease-common-medical-problems

Luxury Independent Living at MorningStar’s Community in Peoria, Arizona

If you are a senior who is starting to feel overwhelmed by the care and upkeep of a home, it may be time to consider making a lifestyle change. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we think you will be pleased to discover that not only are you giving up a houseful of problems but you are gaining a beautiful, no-maintenance home as well as a broader community of friends.

Independent living provides seniors with a range of benefits including predictable monthly budgeting and tasty meals they no longer need to cook as well as built-in companionship. Residents can take part in our community activities, join us for sponsored outings, and have full access to the many amenities our community offers. In addition, we take care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, and offer housekeeping, which allows our residents plenty of time to pursue their interests.

Our independent living option is tucked into its own intimate neighborhood made up of 38 two-bedroom Casitas with attached garages, a clubhouse and swimming pool. Casitas are equipped with everything you need including a washer/dryer along with full kitchens featuring a breakfast bar, high-quality appliances and quartz countertops. For your safety, each apartment has an emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. Also, we are happy to welcome your furry friend as we are pet friendly.

Along with independent living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge has 65 suites for assisted living for those who need help with the activities of daily living. The Reflections Neighborhood provides an additional 35 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. If you are looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, MorningStar may be your answer. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes pride in the reputation our communities have earned since 2003 for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Coping With the Loss of a Loved One

Death is part of life and if we are fortunate to live a long one, most likely we will have to deal with the loss of a beloved spouse, life partner, child, sibling or friend. As loved ones give our lives purpose, coping with their loss and finding new purpose is difficult as many seniors do not have the opportunities to socialize or get out as they once did.

Grief counselors suggest some things a person’s family and friends can do to help them get through the worst of the grief. If it was your parents who died, be sure to let your surviving parents know how much you miss dad or mom, and share memories you have of the good times. Ask your parents if they have more difficult times during the day dealing with the loss as you could come over or give them a call. Also, be sure to not shy away from saying the deceased person’s name.

Offer to do things with them you know they once did with their spouse such as grocery shopping. If dad did the yard work, either offer to do it or help mom hire a company to take care of it. Help your parents find outlets for socializing, and encourage them to pick up an old hobby or find a new one, or take a class.

Being part of a senior living community such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge can be very supportive and give the person a sense of belonging. Other residents most likely have had similar experiences and have a special understanding of what the person is going through.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is designed to provide seniors everything they want and need in a retirement home. Along with beautiful surroundings, an array of luxury amenities, hospitality services and five-star dining; we offer a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a responsive, loving staff. For independent living, assisted living or senior living in Peoria, Arizona, contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Women’s Bone Health

Endocrinologist Kendall Moseley, MD, medical director of the Johns Hopkins Metabolic Bone & Osteoporosis Center, says most women do not know anything about their bone health. A recent survey from the National Osteoporosis Foundation backs up that sentiment finding around 94 percent of women do not worry about their skeletons. However, they add they should, as one in five women under 30 already have osteopenia, which is a step above full out osteoporosis. The good news is there are things you can do to protect your frame and avoid the things that are not good for bone health.

Experts say our bones constantly break down and rebuild every 10 years resulting in a new skeleton. The problem lies in the fact that after the age of 30, our bodies start to lose more bone than they make. Women’s estrogen levels also begin to drop around 30, which is another protector of women’s bone health.

An unbalanced diet or severely restricting calories in an effort to stay thin or lose weight can be another cause of low bone density; and too much caffeine, salt and alcohol all interfere with retaining calcium, our primary bone builder. Even some medications deplete calcium and include certain anti-depressants and contraceptives so be sure to ask your doctor about side effects of medications you take. It is important for women to include dairy products or foods like beans and nuts to increase their calcium intake. Protein from plants and lean meats are also good ways to get calcium.

Along with a good diet, exercise is an important element of keeping bones strong. While some exercises are better than others, scientists recommend weight bearing exercises like walking and running as good ways to build strong bones. Strength training exercises may be the ultimate bone builder and include things like pushups and squats or kickboxing.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our beautiful campus offers 38 Casitas for independent living, 65 suites for assisted living and 35 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment. To enhance quality of life, residents can take advantage of our many meaningful wellness programs and activities as well as our onsite luxury amenities. Contact us to learn more about our lifestyle choices, array of smartly designed suites, and senior care and hospitality services.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior 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.

Understanding Medicare Coverage

If you recently had a medical procedure or were hospitalized, you may be confused about a recent bill and are wondering what Medicare will cover, what your gap insurance will cover, and what you will be responsible for. It may help to have a better understanding of the four main parts of Medicare.

Part A helps pay for inpatient stays in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, some home care and end-of-life hospice care that accept Medicare. Hospital services covered include a semi-private room and meals, general nursing, drugs and supplies, inpatient rehabilitation, and some blood transfusions. Skilled nursing services include care for things like recovering from hip replacement surgery or stroke. Part A charges a deductible for hospital stays (the fee for 2024 is $1,632) but your Medigap insurance may cover that expense as well as other deductibles. Hospital stays for up to 60 days and virtually most services are covered by Medicare; but the one exception is not in a private room.

Part B covers doctors and outpatient services, and together with part A make up what is considered “Original Medicare.” Part B pays for diagnostic screenings, lab tests, preventive services, some medical equipment and transportation. It covers doctor visits and other outpatient services. There is a monthly premium with Part B, and in 2024 it is $174.70. For those making over $103,000 annually it may be higher.

Part C is what Medicare Advantage comes under, and is privately held insurance rather than Medicare, which is run by the federal government. If you choose Medicare Advantage, you will still need to sign up for Medicare part A and B and pay the premium for part B. Medicare Advantage plans set their own deductibles and you typically need to stay in a Network and use your plan’s approved providers or pay higher out of pocket costs.

Part D is again from a private insurer and pays for some of your prescription drugs. Generally there is a co-pay for each prescription, and you may have a premium, and a yearly deductible. Check with Medicare regarding rules for higher yearly drug costs and your responsibility.

Remember Medicare offers an open enrollment period each year to allow recipients to make changes to their plan. The period starts on October 15 and ends December 7. Any changes you make during this time will go into effect the following year.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our contemporary 55+ community offers luxury independent living and assisted living a variety of configurations and floorplans. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers 35 suites in a choice of studio or one-bedroom units. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living in Peoria, AZ and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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 senior living in Peoria, AZ.