Recognizing Early Symptoms of Heart Disease in Women Over 60

Heart disease isn’t just a men’s health issue—it’s the leading cause of death for women. Yet, many women over 60 don't realize that their symptoms can look very different from men’s. While chest pain is a well-known warning sign, women often experience more subtle symptoms that can be easy to overlook.

For seniors in retirement communities Beaverton, OR, knowing these early signs can help you take action before a small issue turns into something serious.

Why Heart Disease Symptoms Look Different in Women

Women’s hearts are smaller, and their arteries respond differently to plaque buildup and stress. This means that while men may experience sudden, crushing chest pain, women often develop symptoms that are more gradual and harder to pinpoint.

Many women dismiss early warning signs, assuming they’re just tired, stressed, or dealing with normal aging. In senior living paying attention to your body can be life-saving.

Subtle Signs of Heart Disease in Women

Unexplained Fatigue

• Feeling exhausted after normal activities

• Struggling to get through the day despite resting well

Many women report extreme fatigue weeks before a heart attack, often describing it as feeling "wiped out" without reason.

Shortness of Breath

• Becoming winded while climbing stairs or doing light activity

• Feeling out of breath when lying down

If you find yourself struggling to breathe during everyday tasks, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.

Discomfort in the Neck, Jaw, or Back

• Pain or pressure that comes and goes

• Discomfort that isn’t linked to movement or muscle strain

Women often don’t feel classic chest pain but instead experience pain in areas that seem unrelated to the heart.

Nausea or Indigestion

• Feeling queasy or experiencing stomach pain

• Heartburn-like discomfort that doesn’t go away

Heart disease symptoms can sometimes mimic digestive issues, making it easy to mistake them for something minor.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

• Sudden dizziness when standing up or moving

• Feeling faint for no obvious reason

This can be caused by a drop in blood flow to the brain, which may signal heart trouble.

What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms

When in independent living, if something feels "off," don’t ignore it. Trust your instincts. Many women downplay their symptoms or assume they're overreacting, but early detection can prevent serious complications.

• Track your symptoms – Write down what you’re experiencing and how often it happens.

• Schedule a check-up – Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. A doctor can run tests to check for heart issues.

• Know your risk factors – High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and family history all increase the risk of heart disease.

Adopting a Pet is a Good Investment for Seniors’ Wellbeing

When a senior makes the commitment to adopt a pet, it is a sign that they made a promise to invest their love and care into the upkeep of another being. Experts say this is one of the most positive things you can do as an old person. The benefit of a pet is a two-way deal as not only does the pet get a loving home but the person gets the satisfaction of taking care of another living thing. Also if you do live alone, a dog can provide a good sense of security. After all, a thief doesn’t know your dog is only a pussycat in disguise.

Pets provide unconditional love and companionship and are there to support a person when needed. In fact many pets mold their personality to their owners and seem able to read the mood of their person. Pet ownership additionally forces a person to stick to a routine as the pet is relying on them for their wellbeing. In other words, even if you don’t feel like getting up in the morning, your pet is counting on you. Moreover the companionship a pet provides can help relieve the loneliness many seniors feel.

If you opt for a dog, you may need to get out and take it for a walk. Surveys show seniors who own dogs report getting more exercise than their non-dog-owner counterparts. Walking your dog may become a permanent part of your daily exercise, and your walk may include being greeted by others and engaging in conversation. Even if you have a hard time meeting new people a dog can be a wonderful icebreaker. Other duties such as taking your dog to the groomer or the vet keeps you connected to an active social life.

Before you commit to a pet, experts say to consider its and your physical limitations along with the animal’s need for exercise and attention as well as the cost of pet ownership. Another suggestion is to have a backup plan for pet care if you should become unable to care for the pet. 

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we are honored to provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our 55+ community’s elegant suites are available in studios, and one- and two bedroom configurations with some as large as 1,374 square feet; and many with private patios or balconies. Reflections Neighborhood offers dedicated memory care Arvada, CO families have come to count on.

Make Sleep a Priority in 2025

Experts say it is a myth that older adults do not need as much sleep as they did when they were younger. Studies show at least seven hours a night of sleep is critical to brain health and cognitive health. If you consistently wake up several times during the night and still wake up early every day, it may be time to make changes to your nightly routine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports due to sleep disturbances that frequently come with age, many seniors get less REM sleep. REM is an important cycle in our sleep and includes the period in which we dream. It is also believed to help consolidate memory. In addition, during our deep sleep cycle, the brain purges toxins and waste products including amyloid beta, which can gradually clump together to form amyloid plaques, found in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

A chronic lack of sleep can affect a person’s mood. The magazine, Frontiers in Physiology, published a report citing 6 studies showing less than 7 hours of sleep a night in older adults was linked to a higher risk for depression. Psychological Medicine reports on another study of adults who were on average age 72 who frequently said they woke during the night. It found participants were more likely to report a depressed mood.

The Mayo Clinic has a few tips to help you sleep through the night such as going to bed and getting up around the same time each day. They caution about going to sleep hungry or very full and to eat at least a few hours before bedtime. Also watch your consummation of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine products a couple of hours before bedtime. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet, and refrain from viewing light-emitting screens right before sleep. They say it is important to manage your stress levels and to try and get some exercise each day.

MorningStar of Beaverton senior living provides independent living and assisted living designed to allow older adults enjoyable, carefree retirement years. MorningStar’s individualized memory care is available from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages where the highest level of care is required. Our dedicated Reflections Neighborhood’s 38 memory care suites offer your loved one the safety, security, people and programs to help nurture, elevate and celebrate life. Contact us to schedule a personalized tour of our beautiful independent living community.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379

How to Prevent Brittle Bones

The Harvard Medical School recently published an article explaining it should be on the top of a senior’s daily to-do list to protect bone health especially if you have been diagnosed with osteopenia. After the age of 60, bone loss speeds up, and experts warn if we do not do something to prevent the loss, it will continue and may result in osteoporosis.

If you are a woman who has gone through menopause or are over the age of 65, talk to your healthcare provider about getting a bone density scan. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis such as family history, low body weight, smoke or take certain medications, your doctor may recommend a test earlier.

While osteopenia is not full blown osteoporosis it is a sign a person’s bone density is decreasing and they may be at risk for osteoporosis, a condition where bones easily and repeatedly break. The disease can be so severe it can even lead to a loss of independence. Staying healthy is important as it can help slow down the progress of osteopenia to osteoporosis.

Statistics report more than 2 million bone fractures each year in the U.S. are attributed to osteoporosis but there are things we can do to prevent as well as treat the disease to keep bones strong and healthy. While there are medications to stave off the damage, they are typically reserved for those who already have osteoporosis. Treatment for low bone density such as osteopenia is treated mainly through diet and exercise.

Bones become stronger when we put force on them or pull on them with weight-bearing exercises. These include resistance training, body-weight exercises and walking at a brisk pace. Other effective things to prevent or treat bone loss are aerobics, balance and posture exercises.

Diet is another important step in preventing osteoporosis. Doctors recommend getting as much calcium as you can through foods like dairy, sardines and leafy greens. Protein is also important for seniors and protects brain health as well as builds strong bones. Other recommendations include talking to your doctor about taking a vitamin D3 supplement; and limiting alcohol consumption to not more than one drink a day.

MorningStar of Arvada senior living community offers the area’s finest independent living and assisted living. Wellness programs and activities promote healthier, more purposeful lives; and all-day, restaurant-style dining and luxury amenities give seniors the freedom to pursue life-long interests, explore new hobbies and make new friends. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care Arvada, CO families trust. Contact us to learn more and ask about our special memory care offer.

When is it Time for Cataract Surgery?

Statistics show cataracts affect approximately 24 million Americans and are the leading cause of blindness throughout the world. They occur when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy due to the breakdown of its proteins, resulting in blurry, hazy or less colorful vision. Age is the primary reason for cataracts and typically starts around the age of 60. As they take a long time to develop; many people do not notice the gradual blurring of their vision. Individuals with diabetes may experience the problem at a much younger age.

If during an eye exam your doctor mentions you have the start of cataracts, they may tell you it is not to the point where surgery is required; but may recommend increasing the strength of your eye prescription. However if you are told the problem is far enough along to warrant surgery keep in mind it is a fairly routine procedure but do talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks to determine if it is the right time for you.

There are a few signs that may make it easier to decide if you want to do the surgery. These include having a hard time driving at night due to cloudy vision and not being able to read as well or watch TV because of the cataracts. Double-vision and seeing colors as faded or yellowish are other signs. Another reason it may be time to schedule the surgery is the cataracts are making it difficult for your doctor to do a thorough exam of your eyes.

One of the best ways to slow down cataracts is to wear sunglasses with UV protection and to quit smoking. If you see “halos” or can’t handle glare while driving at night, stop driving after dark. Experts say cataract surgery has a high success rate but it can take anywhere from two to six weeks to fully recover.

At MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, we are proud to bring to the area the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our 66 bright suites are available in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet) and deliver style, 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. Contact us to learn more about our beautiful community and to schedule a personalized tour to meet our dedicated team and resident-heroes.

Warning Signs of Glaucoma

Statistics show glaucoma is the 2nd leading cause of blindness worldwide, and it is important to know in the early stages, there are usually no symptoms. This is why Medicare says half of the people who have the disease do not know they have it.

The best way for someone to know if they have glaucoma is to get screened for it through a dilated eye exam with visual field testing. For seniors on Medicare, the program covers one glaucoma screening each year for individuals at high risk.

The National Eye Institute wants the public to know early treatment of the disease can stop the damage and protect your eyes from serious vision loss. People most at risk for glaucoma include those with diabetes, a family history, African-Americans over the age of 50 and Hispanics age 65 or older.

As stated earlier, glaucoma in the first stages does not generally exhibit symptoms for most people. Later on, symptoms include the loss of side (peripheral) vision and blind spots, and without treatment blindness. Since symptoms start so slowly, many people do not notice the change to their vision.

The cause of glaucoma is not known but it is linked to high pressure in the eyes; and one treatment is to lower the eye pressure through medication. While one or both eyes can be affected, some people with high eye pressure do not have glaucoma. There are several different types of the disease with open-angle glaucoma being the most common in the United States. Treatments include eye drops, lasers and surgery.

The National Eye Institute recommends getting a dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years if you are over the age 60 or at a higher risk for glaucoma. Many at high risk including those with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year.

MorningStar of Arvada has proudly earned a reputation as one of the finest senior living communities for independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families count on. Unlike other senior communities, we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and it is our privilege to now serve those who first served us. Please ask about our Memory Care Special: Move in by January 31 & March is Rent Free.

Does Your Parent with Alzheimer’s Need More Care?

Luckily the progression of some cases of Alzheimer’s can be modestly slowed down with today’s medications especially if given in the first few months of the onset of the disease. The Mayo Clinic explains while medications do not cure or stop the damage being done by the disease, they can help healthy brain cells work as well as they can.

They explain it is critical that the person and their caregivers work with a healthcare team to review symptoms and change treatments when needed. At some point medications stop working and families may need to have plans in place to care for the person especially if their safety is at risk, they are falling or have unattended access to appliances. Other indications include realizing your loved one is having trouble with daily personal tasks such as eating, bathing and properly taking their medications.

Losing weight can be a sign the person is forgetting to eat or needs supervision to eat. Also a family caregiver may feel overwhelmed by the level of care the person now needs particularly if they are becoming agitated and/or aggressive; or if they need care 24 hours a day.

For many families the solution is a move to a dedicated memory care community where the person can receive the services and compassionate care required including meaningful activities and healthy meals designed for their needs. At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we compassionately provide all-inclusive, holistic memory care designed to enhance quality of life. With 29 suites, our Reflections Neighborhood is able to care for residents in an intimate, supportive and loving environment; and independence is encouraged through clear wayfinding and inviting common areas.

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease and would benefit from more extensive care, please contact us. We welcome residents from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages. Contact us to set up a personalized tour to learn more about memory care Arvada, CO families trust; or ask about our independent living and assisted living.

Lifestyle Changes to Increase Longevity

During the last several years, researchers have studied the steps we can take to improve longevity. Their overwhelming findings point to a healthy diet, exercise and strong social ties; and who of us does not want to live longer and enjoy better health along the way? The Medical News Today states, “Making healthy choices around these three factors may be key to living the long, fulfilling lives we strive for, and since it is never too late to start making positive changes, now is as good a time as any to make health a top priority.”

They cite key factors to help achieve this goal. The first regards diet, which includes eating less red meat and avoiding salt. They recommend a Mediterranean diet as it is mostly plant-based and relies on minimally processed ingredients and healthy fats. It consists of whole grains, fruits and vegetables; beans and legumes, fatty fish, seeds and nuts. Experts say the diet can help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Next on the list to help you live longer and healthier is exercise, and it doesn’t mean having to become a marathon runner or train for hours each day. Experts say taking a daily walk can improve longevity and is safe for older adults. In fact Ryan Glatt, CPT, NBC-HWC, a senior brain health coach and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in the study, told MNT that “the benefits are most significant for individuals who are inactive, as even small increases in physical activity substantially reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and premature death.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends adults exercise at least 150 minutes a week spread out over several days. Other healthy exercises include swimming, cycling, aerobic exercise and strength training as well as flexibility exercises.

You may be wondering how a good social life will help you live longer but the proof is in a number of studies that say staying social can help a person not only live longer but be healthier. Researchers explain adults who say they feel lonely and isolated have a higher risk of chronic diseases, depression and early death as well as an increase in the risk of stroke.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we are honored to offer the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO families have come to rely on. With 112 bright independent and assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet), we make it easy for seniors to comfortably and securely age in place. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we offer 29 memory care suites. Contact us to learn more about our MEMORY CARE special offer. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/3-ways-to-boost-longevity-in-2025

Helping Slow Cognitive Decline

An article in Today’s Geriatrics Medicine states many adults as early as their 60s start to experience a slip in their mental abilities. By the age of seventy, studies show as many as 67 percent of people experience some level of cognitive decline. A small group of those people (around 10 percent) will go on to develop more serious cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s. However is it good to know not everyone who is diagnosed with MCI (mild cognitive impairment) will progress to Alzheimer’s.

We know the risk for Alzheimer’s is higher in those with a genetic connection or have a history of head trauma or cerebral ischemia. Modifiable factors including lifestyle habits like alcohol use, smoking, poor nutrition and obesity can also increase one’s risk for dementia. Researchers say in the early stages of cognitive decline improving things like “diet, stress management, sleep quality, mental health, social connections and exposure to toxins” may help mitigate or prevent further decline. Other problems that may interfere with cognition are chronic systemic inflammation, hormonal imbalances, low levels of vitamin D and insulin resistance.

People in the early stages of cognitive decline should be assessed for nutrient deficiencies and underlying health conditions that may accelerate their condition; and be provided information on specific foods and nutrients known to support brain health. For those with Alzheimer’s disease, experts recommend caregivers and dietitians encourage a structured and enjoyable eating experience formed around the individual’s eating preferences and cultural traditions. It is important to remember you can’t force someone to eat something they don’t like just because it is good for them.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we provide independent and assisted living with an array of senior care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities. For those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic care to meet each resident’s individual, specialized needs. Our delicious dining service prioritizes the use of ingredients known to support brain health by their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. To learn more about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, Arizona, please contact us or visit our website.

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 for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Source: todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/issues/2024/novemberdecember/#17

Mobile Issues Are the Most Frequent Cause of Disability for Older Adults

When we were younger most of us were lucky enough to take our mobility for granted. We didn’t have to think about whether we would be “able” to physically do a routine task. However, as we grow older, our bodies can encounter physical limitations that threaten our independence. Experts say protecting our mobility requires attention and the “use it or lose it” mantra is a fitting one. Lifestyle choices and exercise as well as diet and preventive care can help keep us stronger and steadier with fewer aches and more stamina.

The Harvard Health Publishing by Harvard Medical School defines mobility as the ability to move purposefully as you go through your day, and is the foundation for living a healthy and independent life. It requires a certain amount of physical stamina, strength, balance, coordination, and range of motion. Mobility allows seniors to do everyday things like get out of bed each morning, climb a set of stairs and bring in groceries from the car. Poor mobility causes problems such as being unable to get up out of a chair on your own or getting up from the toilet without helping hand. Good mobility helps keep seniors safe by lessening their risk of falls and subsequent injuries; and allows the person to live on their own.

The US Census Bureau reports that mobility issues are the most frequent cause of disability for people over 65 and impacts their ability to safely climb stairs and walk. While some mobility problems can’t be helped, experts say generally to maintain mobility, seniors should do exercises targeted to increase strength, balance, stamina and coordination.

Ask your doctor, physical therapist or trainer on ways to preserve and improve your freedom of movement. Moreover, if you are unsteady on your feet, check with them about using a mobility aid such as a cane or walker to improve steadiness.

For outstanding independent living and assisted living, Phoenix area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge, a true destination for successful aging. We are an all-inclusive community, offering a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef and a range of floor plans to meet varying needs. Residents enjoy onsite amenities, wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us for more information about our beautiful community as well as pricing and availability.

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 assisted living in Peoria, Arizona.

 
Source: health.harvard.edu/topics/mobility

Spondylosis is a Common Age-Related Condition

The Medical News Today website reports it is estimated 90 percent of adults over the age of 60 have some form of spondylosis, a general term for degenerative conditions affecting the disks, vertebrae and joints in the back. Spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis are also terms used to describe the condition. Back pain or numbness, tingling and weakness in the hands, feet or legs are all common symptoms; and for many can interfere with their quality of life. Others do not have any symptoms and the condition is only found on imaging scans like X-rays, MRI, and CTs.

The condition involves the various components of the spine including bones, ligaments, muscles and the cushioning between vertebrae resulting in commonly known problems like herniated or slipped disks, and osteoarthritis. When the neck and back are affected, it is called cervical spondylosis. Lower back problems are known as lumbar spondylosis.

Medical professionals say aging is a big factor in spondylosis as are certain life-long habits. These include jobs involving lots of activity that puts stress on the back and a history of playing demanding, physical sports. However, those with a history of little physical activity are also at risk. Obesity, smoking and neck or back injuries are some other risk factors.

Experts say treatment for spondylosis can range from modifying movement to physical therapy, medications, steroid injections and surgery. Other therapeutic approaches include acupuncture, chiropractic, massage or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Your doctor can work with you to devise a plan based on the cause of the problem as well as the severity of your pain.

Looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care in Peoria, AZ? MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a 55+ community that provides carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. As a resident you will enjoy an array of onsite amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. Please visit our website for more information including contact information, selection of floorplans and a list of amenities.

MorningStar Senior Living 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 assisted living in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/back-spondylosis

The Difference Between Palliative and Hospice Care

To help those dealing with end-of-life issues, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains some of the myths associated with palliative and hospice care including sorting out the difference between the two terms. They explain while they are similar, they do differ in a couple of significant ways.

Palliative care is defined as providing specialized care for those living with a serious illness. Myths linked to palliative care include the person no longer being able to receive care for their disease. The fact is care can be provided for the illness along with curative care. Another myth is the person will no longer be able to see their primary doctor but will only be treated by specialists. NIA says in many cases, the person’s primary provider will work hand-in-hand with specialists.

The intention of palliative care is to improve quality of life as well as provide care to improve help with symptoms. It also helps the patient understand their choices for medical treatment. A palliative care team may be made up of specialized nurses and doctors along with social workers, nutritionists and chaplains. If a time comes when the person’s care team decides treatment is no longer working, palliative care could transition to hospice care if the doctor believes the person is likely to die within six months. Another option is the palliative team would continue to help with the emphasis on providing comfort care.

The NIA explains hospice care provides comfort and quality of life for a person with a serious illness who is facing end of life. The myth surrounding hospice care is the person cannot receive any medications. The truth is a person will receive medications to help manage symptoms but not to treat the disease. Many people think hospice care can only be done in a hospital or nursing facility but experts say it can also be done at home.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers independent living in Peoria, Arizona with a range of onsite amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 memory care in Peoria, AZ.

Discover MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge

Imagine being freed up from the many chores homeownership requires and having the time to pursue your various interests and hobbies, to travel, or spend more time with family and friends. Communities like MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge can provide just that and more as we offer a wide array of services including housekeeping, tasty meals and other luxury amenities.

Our maintenance crew handles all repairs both inside and out as well as routine chores like the care of our beautiful grounds. This means as a resident, you will not be faced with unexpected maintenance bills, and instead enjoy the security of predictable budgeting.

Assisted living residents also receive the personalized care they need for the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Medication management services help seniors keep on track with their prescription drug usage. Transportation services to and from doctor visits and routine health screenings make it easy to keep up your medical care.

For all residents, our meaningful wellness programs and activities keep residents as busy as they like. Planned community-wide activities and outings let residents enjoy themselves and offer the perfect environment to meet new friends and create new memories. Smartly designed suites provide privacy while offering access to social activities, and the comfort and security of knowing someone is always around if help is needed.

Our all-day, restaurant-style dining services allow you to keep to your own schedule. Meals are chef-inspired and made from as many freshly sourced ingredients as possible. Residents on restricted diets have options for low-sodium, low calorie and other dietary preferences.

MorningStar is a top choice for independent living in Peoria, Arizona, and allows older adults to comfortably age in a beautiful and vibrant environment. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic care to those with memory loss diseases. Call us or visit our website for more information and to schedule 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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Aging and Forgetfulness

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reminds older adults mild forgetfulness is more often a normal part of aging and not a serious memory problem. They explain serious problems generally involving things like the person asking the same question over and over again and getting lost in places they know well. They may also have trouble following recipes or directions and find themselves confused about people, places and time.

If you are someone who is forgetting things, there are some steps you can take to feel more confident. These involve several simple things you can do, which will benefit your whole being like getting enough sleep (seven to eight hours a night), not drinking a lot of alcohol; and exercising and eating well. Managing high blood pressure is also important.

Other more practical tips to help with forgetfulness are putting your wallet or purse, keys, glasses and phone in the same place each day. Instead of assuming you will remember, write out shopping and need to-do lists and use a calendar or take notes. NIA says to get involved in activities that focus on using the mind and body and stay socially involved. If you feel depressed for weeks at a time, talk to your doctor.

Strategies to improve forgetfulness include challenging our brains by learning new things as well as using all our senses. For example, prepare a new recipe that requires lots of spices. If you are eating out, try to identify the flavors and seasonings used in the meal. To help remember new information better such as names, places, etc., try repeating it out loud or writing it down as this reinforces the memory. For example, if you want to remember a new neighbor’s name, say it out loud back to them, like “hi Jack.” Then an hour or so later say the new neighbor’s name out loud again.

At MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing comfort and security. Our beautiful home has 38 two-bedroom Casitas for independent living and 65 assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 35 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

MorningStar’s senior living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. 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. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Lifestyle Changes are Key to Lowering the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans, and every year more than a million people are diagnosed with the disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) reports in 2021, 38.4 million Americans, or 11.6% of the population, had diabetes. Of that number 2 million had type 1 diabetes, which includes more than 300,000 children and adolescents.

Seniors aged 65 years and older make up a large percentage of Americans with the disease at 29.2% or 16.5 million seniors (diagnosed and undiagnosed). Diabetes can be deadly and was the 8th leading cause of death in 2021. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of vision problems, heart attacks, nerve damage and stroke. In 2022, the CDC estimated the cost of diabetes was $412.9 billion.

Prediabetes is another huge problem and numbers from 2021 report 97.6 million Americans aged 18 and older are affected. It is a chronic condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. While it carries an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it isn’t inevitable. Studies show prediabetes can be reversed or the risk mitigated with lifestyle changes such as diet, medications, and early detection.

Yale Medicine endocrinologist, Anika Anam, MD, explains, “Prediabetes goes hand in hand with metabolic syndrome, the term for a condition that includes hypertension, obesity, and high cholesterol.” She adds each of those conditions raises the risk for serious issues including heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

The CDC’s national Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), finds “people with prediabetes who lost a modest amount of weight—5 to 7% (10 to 14 pounds for a person weighing 200 pounds, for example)—with the help of a structured lifestyle-change program cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%.” In addition, experts say at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can not only improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, but aid in weight loss. Cutting out added sugars, eating more complex carbs (vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains), and increasing protein are other recommended lifestyle changes as is reducing stress.

For luxury independent or assisted living in Peoria, Arizona, MorningStar at Golden Ridge is sure to please. Our community provides residents with tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities designed to promote physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing. To learn more about our wide range of amenities and services, please visit our website.

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. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

Source: yalemedicine.org/news/prediabetes