Trouble Sleeping? Try Some Foods Known to Help

Far too many adults report having problems falling asleep at night or have a hard time staying asleep through the night. Experts point out there are steps we can take to create a night time routine to help us fall asleep and stay asleep.

The Mayo Clinic recommends establishing a goal of a sleep schedule that includes 8 hours of sleep a night. Begin by going to bed around the same time each night and getting up the same time in the morning. As bedtime approaches, you should think about relaxing. Good nighttime habits that encourage relaxation are reading a good book, listening to mellow music, meditating or doing some stretching and breathing exercises. Many find journaling the things you are grateful for helps to relax.

Another thing you can do is to watch your food intake before night. Experts say it is best to not go to bed hungry but avoid heavy or large meals within a couple of hours before bedtime. Avoid foods or drinks containing caffeine like coffee, tea and some energy drinks; and limit alcohol as it may help you feel sleepy but can interrupt your sleep later. Other unhealthy choices before bedtime are fried foods and highly acidic foods like tomato sauce and orange juice as they can cause heartburn.

Rather try foods associated with helping us sleep. One example is to eat a handful of cherries before bedtime. Tart cherries especially contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycles, and can promote better sleep duration and quality. They also contain anti-oxidants that may help reduce inflammation along with improving sleep.

Pistachios are another good sleep food and are filled with protein, vitamin B6, and magnesium. They are also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid the body converts into serotonin and melatonin that enhances relaxation and sleep. However experts warn to not eat a huge amount of pistachio as they are high in calories, which can keep you awake. Other good nuts are almonds and peanuts. Oats are another food rich in melatonin.

To increase hydration before a night’s sleep, try a bowl of watermelon as it is half water. Other thirst-quenching fruits include pears, apples and cantaloupe. Bananas are full of magnesium and potassium known to relax muscles and nerves. In addition relaxation is increased with the vitamin B6 found in the fruit that converts tryptophan into serotonin.

The senior living community of MorningStar of Arvada provides the area with independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors and their families have come to trust. Since our inception in 2003, it has been MorningStar’s privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our mission to: honor God, value all seniors and invest generously in our team. To schedule a tour of our assisted living community firsthand, please visit our website.

Senior Living is an Easy Way to Stay Socially Active

People are often surprised to learn how beneficial an active social life can be to older adults. However it is not always easy to maintain as aging can leave many seniors feeling socially isolated and/or lonely. Hearing, vision or memory loss; chronic diseases and mobility issues can make it difficult for seniors to get out and about. Many lose social connections with the loss of a spouse, family members or friends.

The National Institute on Aging states, “Being alone may leave older adults more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can affect their health and well-being. Studies show that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.” Other associated problems include obesity, high blood pressure, weakened immune function and dementia.

One important benefit of senior living communities is the ease in which they offer built-in companionship and shared activities. At MorningStar of Arvada, we consider it our privilege to provide meaningful and entertaining activities that engage and enhance the quality of life for residents. Daily group exercise classes, board and card games, movies, live events and casual opportunities to meet with others in common areas throughout the property give residents something to look forward to.

As a resident, your day could start with a chair yoga class or a workout in the pool. To improve mobility, join in our Stand & Balance classes that help prevent falls. Several times a week we offer church services. Weekly adventures include out-to-lunch trips, visits to local cultural activities, and scenic drives through the beautiful area we are so lucky to be situated in. Additionally our community has no shortage of creative exploration classes to tap into your artistic self. To help new residents settle in, we hold new residents coffee and chat groups; and if you don’t see something you would like on the monthly calendar, we encourage you to start a group.

MorningStar of Arvada senior living provides independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors and their families have come to count on. Our Reflections Neighborhood provides 29 memory care suites in an intimate, supportive and loving environment from the onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases to the most advanced stages. Contact us to learn more as well as to set-up a personalized tour of our beautiful senior living community.

The Connection between Our Immune System & Aging

Our immune system is similar to an engine. As we age, our parts start to slow down and show wear and tear. The body no longer runs as smoothly or as robust as it used to, making it harder to fight off infections. Growing old makes it more difficult to recover from strenuous activity or bounce back from illness. A recent article in the US News & World Report likens it to an older smart phone not holding its charge as well as it once did.

Experts explain the immune system is made up of two parts referred to as innate immunity and adaptive immunity. Our innate immune system is the body’s faster response to pathogens and relies on physical barriers like the skin or mucous membranes, and special cells that digest germs and/or destroy infected cells. Our adaptive immune system is responsible for a slower, more specific defense against pathogens using antibody B cells to destroy the pathogens; or T cells to coordinate and kill infected cells.

Dr. Austin Perlmutter, a Seattle-based, board-certified internal medicine physician explains aging brings about many changes. He states, “The most prominent of them is the development of what is called 'immunosenescence', a progressive state of worsening of the overall immune system function.” Not only do the elderly have fewer immune cells but the ones they have are fairly worn out. This means seniors are more likely to have chronic inflammation as well as a weaker response to infections; and unfortunately, the protections vaccines offer.

Experts say while aging inevitably affects our immune system, we can do things to support and strengthen it throughout our lives such as getting routine vaccinations and following a healthy lifestyle. Managing chronic conditions additionally helps reduce the risk of severe infections and help us recover quicker.

The MorningStar of Arvada senior living offers 112 bright independent and assisted living suites in spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom floorplans (some as large as 1374 square feet). Inviting common areas include dining in multiple venues, game and billiards room, sky terraces, theater, art studio, fitness center, salon, swimming pool, courtyards, and more. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we offer 29 memory care suites in a loving environment where independence is encouraged and supported. Contact us to learn more about our independent living, assisted living and senior living Arvada, CO families have come to count on.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/how-aging-can-affect-your-immune-system

Is an Elderly Loved One Unintentional Losing Weight?

Doctors explain a loss of appetite in healthy older adults can be normal; and may just be part of the aging process. However a decreased appetite resulting in weight loss can be caused by a variety of factors such as cancer and other chronic diseases, medications and even depressions.

In addition, seniors who no longer seem to enjoy eating could be having problems with their dentures or cavities and should be checked by a dentist. Simply a lack of exercise and slowing metabolism can also cause a loss of appetite. Some seniors report loneliness and eating alone has caused them to lose interest in food.

A noticeable loss of weight can have serious medical consequences, even death, and may be a sign of a medical problem that should be evaluated and treated by the person’s healthcare provider. Other signs of poor nutrition can include weakness, loss of balance, dehydration, recurring infections, wounds and fever. These symptoms could be caused by a malnutrition disorder, inflammatory disease or even cancer.

If the problem does not appear to be a medical one, experts say there are things we can do to help a loved one get more interested in food. To start with, stock their refrigerator with nutritional-dense, ready-to-eat foods. Also finds ways for them to have companionship during at least some of their meals. If it would help, look into a meal delivery service. Moreover, talk to their doctor about replacing a meal with a nutritional supplement drink.

Other ways to encourage seniors to eat in assisted living is to make food more pleasing. Avoid using sugar and salt to spice up food but rather add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime to pasta or veggies. Use a splash of balsamic or red wine vinegar to enhance flavors. Remember fixing a colorful plate of food can make the meal more inviting to eat.

At the MorningStar of Beaverton retirement communities, we take pride in offering seniors carefree retirement with companionship, predictable budgeting and beautiful private suites. Our all-day restaurant-style dining allows residents to set their own schedule and to join fellow residents in enjoying a meal together. We believe dining is one of the great pleasures of living, especially when enjoyed in community. Breaking bread together offers far more than nutrition. It bonds us as family and friends and is the centerpiece of personal wellness, for through proper diet and healthy choices, food becomes a healing medicine like no other. 

MorningStar of Beaverton offers independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of our attractive and loving community.

Why Dizziness can be a Problem for Older Adults

Dizziness, vertigo and imbalance are among the top complaints of older adults, and are problematic as they put people at a significantly higher risk for falling. The reason can range from age-related inner ear problems, cardiovascular issues, neurological conditions, new medications, and in some cases, anxiety.

Dizziness and imbalance are prime examples of typical age-related inner ear problems that cause the deterioration of the inner ear structures responsible for balance and equilibrium. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common and occurs when tiny calcium particles are dislodged in the inner ear canals. The result is a sensation of spinning or dizziness as the person moves their head in certain directions. Another inner ear problem is called Meniere's disease, a buildup of fluid in the inner ear causing dizziness, tinnitus and hearing loss.

Cardiovascular issues related to dizziness include poor circulation and heart problems, and low blood pressure. One effect of low blood pressure is orthostatic hypotension, which causes a person’s blood pressure to drop suddenly resulting in lightheadedness or dizziness. This condition is a big fall danger.

Medications for blood pressure; antidepressants, sedatives, and tranquilizers are also associated with dizziness. Diseases like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis damage the nervous system and lead to balance problems and dizziness. Seniors are also prone to dizziness from things such as dehydration and overheating.

With so many reasons for dizziness and vertigo, there are a range of treatments. Experts say the most important thing you can do is to talk to your doctor to determine what is causing your problems. MorningStar of Arvada senior living offers the area trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care Arvada, CO seniors and their families rely on. Our supportive environment allows you to comfortably age in place with luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, and wellness programs and activities. Along with 112 bright independent and senior living suites; our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has 29 all-inclusive memory care suites. Visit our website to set up an in-person tour.

Think You Would Benefit from Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is used to help people regain physical function and movement from conditions that affect muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a Physical Therapist (PT) when pain medications are no longer working and you still feel pain; or if you have had surgery and need help with healing.

A PT creates a personalized treatment plan for a patient that is designed to reduce pain as well as manage an injury, surgery or chronic illness. The plan utilizes exercises and manual therapy that speeds up healing and recovery and allows the patient to regain function and an improved quality of life.

Like visiting any doctor, it is helpful for you as the patient to think about how your condition affects your daily life and what you hope to get out of your physical therapy sessions before your first appointment. Experts say being prepared not only helps you get more benefit out of therapy but can assist your therapist in establishing a treatment plan based on realistic expectations.

After a physical assessment of your strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination; the PT will explain your condition and treatment plan. Part of your treatment will include exercise and other techniques you can do at home.

MorningStar of Beaverton is one of the most trusted senior living communities in Beaverton, OR. Our contemporary 55+ community offers exceptional independent living and assisted living with 66 modern, spacious apartments. Residents enjoy an atmosphere of exceptional architecture and designs with relaxing indoor/outdoor spaces throughout including patios, club lounges, fitness center, heated indoor saltwater pool and more. For assisted living residents, level of care is based on assessments resulting in an individualized service plan. All residents have access to other care services including onsite therapy services. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive memory care. Contact us to set up an in-person tour to see firsthand the area’s finest senior living.

Guidelines for Senior Drivers

Are you aware that several states have changed their rules for older drivers? For instance Colorado now requires drivers 61 years and older to renew their licenses every five years. It also prohibits drivers age 66 and older from renewing their license online as well as requiring them to take a vision test. Moreover the State accepts written reports about unsafe drivers from law enforcement, courts, physicians and family members. If you are a senior, check with your state to see about any recent changes.

If you are wondering if your parents should still be driving, experts say age is not an absolute but varies from individual to individual, and guidelines include commonsense and wellness factors. Obviously things like Alzheimer’s and other memory impairments affect judgement and driving ability so consult with their physician to see if the keys need to be taken away. They add seniors limited by the complications of diabetes should also be assessed by their physician for their ability to drive.

Another reason a senior should not be driving is due to their medications. Certain commonly prescribed drugs are known to cause drowsiness and/or slow down a person’s reaction time. If you have concerns, again check with their doctor or use the CDC’s medicine risk fact sheet. Other problems like dizziness and shortness of breath interfere with safe driving.

Mom or dad’s physical condition may mean they should be a passenger and not a driver. A Place for Mom, explains, “Driving takes control and dexterity. Inactivity can cause muscle deterioration, which can affect a person’s agility, coordination and strength.” This can also include a loss in hearing and vision.

Warning signs an elderly adult should not be driving are accidents or having close calls. Even getting ticketed for unsafe driving maneuvers as well as getting lost on familiar routes mean mom or dad should become a passenger.

At MorningStar of Arvada, we provide the area’s finest assisted living and senior living. Along with spacious, private suites; residents enjoy a lifestyle of resort-style amenities including scheduled transportation to safely get them to important appointments. For individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate memory care Arvada, CO families count on. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of our beautiful retirement communities.

Tips to Improving Focus

As we grow older, many of us notice a decline in our ability to concentrate and absorb new information. The Harvard Health Publishing’s website confirms it is not our imagination as studies show memory loss may begin as early as age 45. Furthermore more than half of adults aged 60 say they have some concerns about their memory. Luckily for most of us, minor lapses in memory are not typically a serious problem but the “result of normal changes in the structure and function of the brain.”

Researchers explain the slowdown in our processing creates a bottleneck of information, making it harder for new info to enter our short-term memory where it can then be stored in long-term memory. Thankfully there are some useful tips to improve our focus and attention.

First off when conversing with someone, stop what you are doing and look the person in the eye. If you have a hard time concentrating in noisy places like restaurants, ask to be seated in a quieter location. It also helps to let your guests sit along the wall, while you sit facing them. This helps to block out the commotion of people moving about the restaurant. Another solution is to forgo the restaurant and meet at your home.

Experts say if you do miss some of what the person said, ask them to slow down and repeat it. Get into the habit of paraphrasing new information as it makes it easier to remember. An example would be something like, “So you are saying we should meet at 7:30 at the movie theater?”

A key part of processing new information is to focus on the task at hand and screen out distractions. Concentrate on doing one thing at a time and turn off the TV and tune out other noises. When in the middle of a task, try to avoid interruptions. If interrupted, ask someone seeking your attention to wait a few minutes. If it is a phone call, let it go to voicemail.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the finest independent and assisted living Beaverton seniors and their families have come to trust. Our 66 private suites for retirement communities are available in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet); and deliver style, comfort, services, amenities and location. MorningStar’s distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 38 dedicated memory care suites for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. Contact us to schedule a tour to the most desirable senior living in Beaverton, OR.

Senior Living Offers a Community of Friends

The National Council on Aging reports that just as regular preventive medical screenings, vaccinations and dental exams are vital to maintaining our best health, so is protecting our social and mental health. Studies show older adults who say they feel isolated are affected in several negative ways.

Researchers explain there is a connection between those who say they have a good social life with a longer life span. Studies indicate it may be because these are people who appear to handle stress better; something that is linked to cardiovascular disease.

Studies also find seniors who report having a better quality social life were more likely to regularly exercise. Another concerning finding is that isolation is linked to an increase in a person’s risk for anxiety and depression, which are both linked to a higher risk for dementia.

Many seniors living alone have lost a spouse or other close family members and friends and feel very alone. Experts say if this is your situation, they suggest checking with your local senior center, church or library about interesting activities they may sponsor; or look into joining a book club, gardening club or other hobby groups. If you are an animal lover, think about adopting a pet as they provide companionship and a sense of purpose. Volunteer work is another thing that not only keeps you busy but brings more meaning into your life.

One really good way to feel less alone is to move to a senior living community such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our beautiful home offers a variety of options for assisted living or memory care. As a resident you will enjoy an array of onsite amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends.

Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs. Examples include Chair Exercise, Silver Sneakers Workout, Wise Guys Coffee Group, Trivia Games, Mahjong, Lady Bugs Women’s Group, Hand and Foot card games, Bible Study, Happy Hours, Movie Nights and much more.

In addition, our Executive Chef creates seasonal menus largely prepared from scratch which are served all day in our full-service dining rooms. At MorningStar, we feel breaking bread together offers more than nutrition, it also bonds us as family and friends. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

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 area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Shoulder Blade Pain

The shoulder blade, referred to as the scapulae, consists of triangular bones on the back of the shoulders; and are attached to the top of the arm at the shoulder joint and the clavicle (at the acromioclavicular joint). As the area is surrounded by muscles, tendons and ligaments, doctors say determining the cause of shoulder blade pain can be difficult.

The Medical News Today website explains shoulder blade pain can be caused by a number of conditions including a heart attack. Other causes may be sleeping in an uncomfortable position, strain from lifting a heavy object, and physical trauma.

Examples of bone or joint problems are pain caused by a fall or accident that results in a fracture. Other bone and joint issues include degenerative conditions like arthritis, bursitis or frozen shoulders. One type of arthritis called ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the spine and can cause pain and inflammation in the surrounding area including the shoulders.

Shoulder pain that arises beneath the bone that forms the “roof” of the shoulder (the acromion) is often referred to as shoulder impingement. Experts say the cause is often unknown and in about 50% of people, the pain gets better after around 6 months. Treatment includes pain medication, cooling the area and physical therapy.

Muscle and tendon problems causing shoulder pain include the rotator cuff, muscle strain and overuse of the area. The rotator cuff is a set of muscles that helps the arm and shoulder move and injuries are common including tears to one of the cuff tendons. Treatment includes taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or pain medications to minimize swelling and discomfort, applying ice packs and physical therapy. In some cases your doctor may recommend surgery.

Consult your healthcare provider about lingering shoulder blade pain. Also, remember shoulder pain is associated with a heart attack, so anyone experiencing shoulder pains along with shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, should seek immediate medical attention.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge allows residents the opportunity to fully enjoy their retirement years. Our independent living and assisted living Casitas and suites provide all the privacy you want with high-end finishes and safety features as well as senior care services, resort-style amenities and wellness programs. For memory care, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic, all-inclusive services with compassion and expertise. Contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful community.

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.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319774

Lower Your Risk of Arthritis With Healthy Habits

Many people assume arthritis comes with aging, but experts say that while joint pain is common in older adults, arthritis is not a normal part of aging. The CDC explains arthritis is a group of more than 100 conditions causing inflammation and swelling in the joints or nearby tissues with symptoms such as pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and mostly occurs in older adults (about 70% are 55 years and older). Other common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

While there is not a cure for arthritis, there are treatments, medications and therapies. In addition, studies find healthy lifestyle habits can help manage symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout as well as lessen your risk for even getting it. For example, the CDC reports 40% of people with arthritis can decrease pain and improve function by being physically active.

Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of the cartilage of the joints causing bones to rub against one another resulting in pain and difficulty moving the joint. Experts say millions of cases could be prevented by avoiding excessive weight gain. Exercising regularly and doing resistance training is another way to avoid injury to the joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition causing inflammation and swelling in joints. It can misshape, misalign and damage joints; and if it is in one knee or hand, it is typically in the other hand or knee. Recommendations to reduce your risk for RA include avoiding tobacco. Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is linked to several health conditions including RA; and prevention includes improving oral health with good hygiene and dental visits.

Gout is another common form of arthritis and occurs when crystals of uric acid are deposited in one or more joints. People with gout experience pain, swelling and redness in the affected joints. Experts say eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, and staying well hydrated are good steps to reduce your risk. If you are overweight, lose weight and if possible avoid diuretics (discuss all medication changes with your doctor). Studies show that regardless of what type of arthritis you have, early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in your future joint health.

If you are looking at what senior living communities offer in the Phoenix area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. We provide residents outstanding, assisted living and memory care with luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of services to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. 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 proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/is-it-possible-to-prevent-arthritis

Enjoy Life at MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge

MorningStar at Golden Ridge is not just another senior living community. Our differences start with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing generously as we proudly serve those who first served us. We also have a team that is empowered in the MorningStar culture of Radiance, which emphasizes customer service excellence and development of true servant-leadership. These devoted staff members understand the rewards of working with seniors and love the ways in which they learn from them.

Along with their efforts to enhance quality of life for residents, our community offers a full array of resort-style amenities and activities. These include a wide range of fun and/or meaningful ways to stay engaged each day. From enjoying a movie, working on a craft in the life enrichment center or flexing your brains in a competitive game of cards, MorningStar at Golden Ridge is the perfect place to comfortably age in place.

All-day, restaurant-style dining means you can follow your own schedule. In addition to our attractive indoor dining rooms, we have outdoor dining that takes advantage of the beautiful Arizona weather. If you want to meet friends for a drink, visit our bistro bar.

We also have options to help keep physical fit. Our fitness centers have a range of machines and weights; or head to the saline swimming pool for a refreshing workout. Join our many exercise classes which are both fun and invigorating.

Our scheduled transportation means it is easy to get to and from important medical appointments. Moreover, MorningStar’s group outings include trips to restaurants, shopping and other venues. To meet your spiritual needs, services are held in the chapel. In other words, throughout the day; meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment keep you as busy as you like.

For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive care. As part of our commitment to provide security and safety for our most tender residents, we utilize Safely You technology to help detect and prevent falls for memory care residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

To learn more about our community, we invite you to visit our website to browse through our extensive content regarding suites, amenities and programs. You will find reviews from residents and their families as well as background on MorningStar Senior Living’s philosophy and mission. If you like what you see, please contact us to set up a personalized tour.

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 for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, Arizona.

Considerations When Choosing an Assisted Living Community

If you have started searching for assisted living for a parent, you know it can be overwhelming. You are probably looking for a place that fits their budget, care needs, and lifestyle preferences. Moreover, you know it is not a decision to make lightly as you will not want to move mom or dad again after just a few months. That is why the experts suggest that if the circumstances allow you should take your time.

The Internet has several checklists and suggestions on what to look for when searching for assisted living communities including questions to ask when talking to the staff. One thing everyone agrees on is that it is a good idea to take a tour of the community.

Questions you will want to ask include suite sizes and configurations, pricing information and availability. If you plan to have both of your parents move in, ask if they can share a suite. Also, if applicable, find out if the community supports Companion Living (where two people of the same sex share a suite).

You will also want to learn more about the care services your loved one will receive. How is the level of care determined? Will they have access to care 24/7? How close is the community to medical care facilities and how are medical emergencies handled? Are nurses available and if so, how often? What is the staff-to-resident ratio and do the staff receive special training? Do any of the caregivers have CPR training?

In addition, ask about programs and activities available to residents. If possible, get a calendar of events to review later. Also, ask about the dining experience. Are meals offered all day? Is the dining room full service? Can a resident have meals delivered to their suite? If your parents have diet restrictions, find out if they can be accommodated.

Location is another thing to consider as you will want a community that is convenient for family and friends to visit. Be sure to ask if you will be allowed to visit at any time or if there is a set schedule when residents can receive visitors.

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we look forward to answering all your questions. Our dedicated team works hard to give our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community second to none. Our beautiful home offers independent and assisted living in Peoria, Arizona with a wide range of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care to those with memory impairment.

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.

Life After a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

While a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease for yourself or a loved one is hard to hear, it is important to become informed because what we do early on can help guide future decisions. The Alzheimer’s Association is a great resource to become familiar with and offers topics ranging from Alzheimer’s symptoms to caregiving and medical breakthroughs. It is also one of the biggest fundraising organizations and supports the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” and the “Longest Day” activities.

Experts say it is important to remember you are not alone. Over six million people in the US are living with Alzheimer’s and millions more know someone with the disease. Although everyone experiences the disease in their own unique way, understanding the major stages of the disease helps families navigate this unexpected journey.

Alzheimer’s five distinct stages include: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI); Mild; Moderate; Severe; and Very Severe. Symptoms can vary from person to person but the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease have some common characteristics and it helps to be prepared.

To help negate the feeling of being a complete victim of your circumstances, studies show there are lifestyle changes you can make in the early stages to help improve brain health. These include exercising and eating a healthy diet as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. This is also the time to think about future financial, medical and legal decisions.

The early stages are additionally the time to build a support network and to stay engaged with friends and family. Get in the habit of using memory aids such as sticky notes or digital aids for your appointments and activities. If you find you are getting confused paying bills, keeping track of medications or having a hard time making appointments, ask for help.

Be sure to keep up with all your medical appointments including adding an Alzheimer’s specialist to your healthcare team. Ask your doctors about local organizations and services that may be helpful to you and your family now and later.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge has 35 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and designed to stimulate or calm in response to a particular mood or situation. Residents receive daily health monitoring, 24/7 care from well-trained staff, with access to licensed nurses and more supportive third-party service providers. Visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving memory care.

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 proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Protect Your Bone Health

Harvard Medical School published an article explaining that older adults should take steps 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 you do not do something to prevent the loss, it may result in osteoporosis.

If you are a woman 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.

Osteopenia is a condition of low bone density which puts a person at risk for osteoporosis, a condition where bones easily and repeatedly break. The disease can be so severe it can lead to a loss of independence. Staying healthy is important as it can help slow down the progression of osteopenia to osteoporosis.

Statistics report more than 2 million bone fractures in the U.S. each year are attributed to osteoporosis but there are things you can do to prevent as well as treat the disease. 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 activities 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 calcium and vitamin D3 supplements; and limiting alcohol consummation to a moderate amount.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers exceptional independent and senior living in Peoria, Arizona. Residents enjoy five-star dining along with wellness programs and activities which promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic care to those with memory loss diseases. 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 under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, and assisted living in Peoria, Arizona.