Start the New Year Off on a Positive Note

Hard to believe 2025 is almost here. If you struggled with your health, finances or had family problems during 2024, consider the New Year to be a new beginning. Take the time to reflect on what you may have gone through and appreciate all that you have. As you look to the New Year, think about what you want to improve while remembering to prioritize your own self-care.

Experts say to not get off on the wrong foot in 2025, don’t make too many New Year resolutions. Instead set goals that are attainable and add to your well-being. Focus on the things that really matter including eating healthier, exercising and getting enough sleep.

Also don’t waste time beating yourself up about things that may have gone wrong but rather look back on the year and give yourself credit for all your achievements big and small. This kind of thinking keeps you motivated and positive. For changes you want to make going forward, it is recommended you gradually integrate new habits and new skills into your routine; and celebrate your successes.

Things to prioritize for the coming year should include making time for a relaxing vacation as it is important to recharge from time to time. Also reconnect with friends and family you may have drifted apart from; and show them how much you appreciate their support. Another tip for a great year is to spend a few minutes each day feeling grateful; also try and get in the habit of smiling more as just the process of smiling can make us feel happier. 

MorningStar of Arvada is one of the top retirement communities in the area. We proudly provide maintenance–free independent living and assisted living with spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments as large as 1,374 square feet. As a resident, you will have the freedom to pursue life-long interests, explore new hobbies and make new friends. For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic, compassionate care. Set up a personalized tour and ask about our Memory Care Rate freeze thru January 2026.

Tips to Help an Elderly Loved One Enjoy the Holiday Gatherings

Now that Christmas and Hanukah are almost here, it is a good idea to make a plan to ensure your elderly parents or other senior guests feel connected to the family, enjoy themselves and are safe. You want them to know they are still an essential part of the family’s holiday celebrations.

Your plans should start by considering any mobility limitations they may have; and if you can, try and host the event in a venue that can accommodate their needs. For example, think about access into the building, and if there are stairs, will they need a ramp or elevator to get to the party area? Are there handrails and other safety features in the bathroom and/or will they need assistance?

Experts say it is important to also consider the seating arrangements so grandma or mom doesn’t feel isolated. Choose a comfortable chair for them that is easy to get in and out of and offers good acoustics as well as good lighting. The aim is to ensure they feel part of the group and that it is easy for them to join in the conversation. It is a good idea to have a quiet place where they can retire to for a short respite and get away from the noise and bustle of the group.

Additionally have someone available that is willing to assist the person, and have a plan ready for any medical emergencies that may arise. The key is to stay flexible and remember you want to create a memorable celebration for the whole group.

MorningStar of Beaverton is a wonderful spot to not only enjoy the holiday season but every day of the year we have something going on you will want to be part of. Our senior living community offers independent living and assisted living with a wide selection of contemporary one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Please contact us to learn more about stress-free living.

Unexpected Treasures You May have Sitting in Your Basement

There are things we hang-on to because we think they are valuable; but we may actually have some expected old things sitting around the house that have even more value. A recent article from Better Report, explains many collectible items may not be at the top of your list in terms of value.

One thing recently increasing in value is vinyl records. Experts explain while many albums are only worth a few dollars there are a few that command a much steeper price. While you may not have something as rare as the special copy of the Beatle’s White Album, you may have a couple worth your while to sell. If your area has a resale record shop, check with them or do your own research on the Internet.

In the same vein are vintage toys. Some highly collectible ones include Pokémon cards, old dolls and even Beanie Babies. Like all collectibles, condition plays a huge role in the value. Also if you happen to have any unopened, shrink-wrapped VHS tapes from the 70s check the titles. Sought-after movies include first edition copies of Star Wars and Jaws, and could be quite valuable.

Other surprising valued collectibles include things like vintage t-shirts (in good condition), old cookie jars and scout memorabilia such as patches or uniforms. Old glass-blown Christmas ornaments as well as older Hallmark ornaments can also be valuable. Another thing of value are old hand-woven rugs so don’t give one away until you check with an expert. Hand-made rugs from before WW2 can sell for up to $200 a foot and rugs after WW2 can sell for as much as $50 a foot.

At MorningStar of Arvada, retirement 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. Our contemporary 55+ community offers independent living and assisted living facilities with a wide range of senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care Arvada, CO families count on. 

Source: betterreport.com/common-objects-worth-money/

Early Signs of Osteoporosis

As osteoporosis is known as a “silent disease,” it often goes undetected until someone has a fracture or broken bone. It is estimated one in three women will get the disease and one in five men over the age of 50. There are now excellent treatments that help slow down the rate of bone loss and speed up the rate of renewal; and even gene-based therapies expected in the near future; if you don’t know you have the disease, you cannot benefit from treatment.

Trusted sources of information include online sites like the Mayo Clinic, NIH or Medical News Today, which explains, “Osteoporosis is a progressive condition, and many people may not notice symptoms until they experience a fracture. However, some individuals may notice early symptoms that could indicate osteoporosis.”

Experts say a good first step is to evaluate your personal risk factors such as age, sex, weight, health, family history and medications you take. A decrease in your grip strength or receding gums or brittle nails can be other early indicators of osteoporosis.

As the disease progresses, you may experience back pain from small fractures in the back as the vertebrae begins to weaken. One common type of back pain occurs when a person is standing up and leaning slightly forward. They are able to lessen the pain by tilting backward. A stooped posture is another sign the back is weakening and you may have fractures that make it harder to support the body. Many also experience a decrease in their height as the bones in the back begin to collapse and compress.

If you do experience any of these symptoms, you need to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a bone density scan with a machine called DEXA (dual energy X-ray scan). In addition, it is suggested you include weight-bearing exercises to your routine and make changes toward a more calcium and protein enriched diet.

MorningStar of Beaverton is a senior living community with an excellent reputation for trusted senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities. Our 55+ community proudly offers the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in a range of smartly-designed floorplans and configurations. Contact us to talk about your options.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-warning-signs-of-osteoporosis

Sundowner’s Syndrome

The Alzheimer’s Association explains, “Sundowner’s syndrome” or “sundowning” is a set of symptoms or behaviors that are found in some people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The syndrome’s symptoms include agitation and anxiety, and it occurs in the later part of the day and evening with marked behavior changes in the person.

Fred Kobylarz, MD, co-director of the Center for Healthy Aging at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School says it is not a disease, but rather a symptom of dementia. While doctors do not know the cause of sundowning, they believe it may be a “combination of hormonal changes, brain deterioration or damage that has occurred, environmental factors, disruption to a person's circadian rhythm, and more.”

The syndrome may start as early as 1 p.m. in some people but usually is later in the day. Along with agitation and anxiety; symptoms can include things like pacing, disorientation, hallucinations and problems sleeping. Other behavior changes may include angry outburst and aggressive, sometimes even physical altercations. Others just want to be closer to a person they trust as they need reassurance. Some people do not remember what happened earlier in the day and even forget they just ate dinner and want to eat again.

Experts say in some cases sundowning starts before a person has had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. However it is not only found in people with dementia as some older adults exhibit symptoms during an illness or period of delirium.

Doctors recommend families who suspect Sundowners to consult with their healthcare provider to rule out other causes. Guidelines for managing the syndrome include setting up a schedule that adheres to their needs and maintaining a consistent daily routine to reduce confusion and fatigue. During morning hours encourage the person to do activities that increase their exposure to natural light to help support better sleep-wake cycles. Avoid over stimulating the person in the evenings and don’t subject them to crowds, bright screens or loud noises.

At MorningStar of Arvada, our senior living community provides the most trusted memory care Arvada, CO families rely on. Our memory care specialists complete thorough training including in our signature program, Lavender Sky. Reflections Neighborhood is distinct from our assisted living and independent living neighborhoods, and provides all-inclusive care for our most tender residents. Contact us to ask about our Memory Care Rate freeze thru January 2026 and to set up a personalized tour.

Source: womenshealthmag.com/health/a63084354/sundowning-dementia-sign/

Helpful Tips for Dealing with Dry Skin

When treating our skin, it is important to remember it is more than a simple covering and is actually the body’s largest organ. Moreover, like our other organs, if we don’t take care of it, we can end up with problems including extremely dry skin. It is no secret that winter temperatures and low humidity exacerbate the problem of dry skin, which is even more problematic for older adults.

Our skin becomes dry when it fails to hold in sufficient moisture, and as we age, there is a decrease in its ability to retain moisture. Experts explain older adults’ oil glands not only produce less oil but the aging process causes the skin to become thinner and lose fat making it that much harder to retain moisture. In addition the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers become thinner and lose their elasticity, and sweat glands decrease with age.

Along with all the physical changes; cold, dry or windy climates contribute to the problem. Certain health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease and hypothyroidism as well as some antiperspirants and strong soaps also dry out the skin. Limit alcohol and avoid smoking as they too cause dry skin.

To help maintain or revive your parched skin, experts recommend using skin moisturizers with humectants that attract moisture such as ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and lecithin. They say the thicker and greasier the moisturizer is the more effective it will be. Another tip is to use a humidifier in the winter set to 60%. Limit your daily shower to 5 to 10 minutes and only use lukewarm water. Avoid soap. Instead use moisturizing products to clean the skin, and don’t use loofahs or washcloths. While you are still slightly damp, apply your moisturizer as it will seal in the moisture. Beware of laundry detergents with fragrance and avoid fabric softeners. 

At the MorningStar of Arvada senior living community, we are honored to provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. We cater to the various needs of older adults with senior-friendly activities and companionship. As we do the outside chores, and the cleaning and cooking, you can focus on the things you love most in life. Talk to us about our extended Memory Care Rate freeze thru January 2026; and set up a tour to see firsthand the most trusted memory care Arvada, CO offers.

Medicare Recipients Get Many Vaccines at No-cost

As we age, protecting our health is more important than ever. We know older adults tend to experience severe symptoms and complications from many communicable viruses and diseases, and can have a harder time bouncing back from them. Being vaccinated lowers the risk for serious illness, and in extreme cases death; and the side effects of vaccines are typically mild and temporary. While Medicare covers the cost of vaccines for the flu, COVID-19 and RSV, many seniors are not always sure if or when they need to get another shot.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people 65 years or older get an annual high-dose flu vaccine if available as they suffer the most from the disease. There are two types. One high-dose flu vaccine contains an antigen called hemagglutinin and has 3 to 4 times as much flu virus antigen as a standard vaccine. The other has an ingredient called an adjuvant that helps the immune system respond better to the virus. If you are over 65 and suspect you have the flu, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible as they can prescribe a flu antiviral treatment.

The recommendation for the COVID-19 vaccine is for people 65 years or older to get 2 doses of the updated 2024-2025 vaccine six months apart. They say if you have upcoming travel or events in your life where you want to be very protected from the disease you could get your second dose somewhat earlier.

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine protects against the respiratory syncytial virus, and the CDC recommends all persons 75 years or older get the one time shot. If you are someone at an increased risk, they say people ages 60-74 years old can get the RSV vaccine.

Other vaccines covered by Medicare Part D include vaccines for shingles, tetanus-diphtheria-whooping cough (TDAP) and others. Consult with your healthcare providers on what vaccines you should be getting to protect your health.

MorningStar of Arvada is one of the area’s finest senior living communities with 112 contemporary independent living and assisted living suites that make it easy for seniors to comfortably and securely age in place without giving up any of their freedom or choices. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides all-inclusive Alzheimer’s care Arvada, CO families trust. Please ask about our Memory Care Rate freeze thru January 2026, and set up a tour to see our beautiful community firsthand.