The Benefits of Assisted Living: A Closer Look

Assisted living offers numerous benefits for seniors who may need help with daily activities but still want to maintain a level of independence. This living arrangement is particularly beneficial for individuals residing in areas like assisted living Fort Collins, where tailored care and supportive services enhance residents’ quality of life. Let’s explore the various benefits of choosing an assisted living community, particularly for those who may also need Alzheimer’s care Fort Collins.

Personalized Care Plans

Assisted living communities prioritize providing personalized care that caters to the individual needs of each resident. This means that each person receives a care plan that is specifically tailored to their health requirements and personal preferences. This approach ensures that all residents receive the exact level of support they need, whether it’s help with medication management, daily personal care, or specific medical needs related to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Safety and Security

One of the primary benefits of assisted living is the enhanced safety and security it offers. These communities are designed to provide a safe environment with features such as emergency call systems in each resident’s living space and common areas, secure entrances, and constant monitoring. This is especially important for residents requiring Alzheimer’s care in Fort Collins, as they may be more prone to wandering or other safety risks.

Social Engagement and Activities

Social interaction is vital for maintaining mental and emotional health, particularly as we age. Assisted living communities offer a variety of social activities and events to keep residents engaged and connected to their peers. From daily exercise classes and art workshops to social gatherings and cultural outings, these activities help prevent loneliness and promote a sense of community among residents.

Nutrition and Meal Support

Maintaining a healthy diet can become more challenging as individuals age. Assisted living facilities provide nutritious meals that are prepared considering the dietary needs and preferences of each resident. This service is crucial for seniors who might find cooking difficult or who may no longer be able to shop for groceries on their own. Regular, balanced meals contribute to overall health and wellness, supporting both physical and cognitive function.

Housekeeping and Maintenance

Assisted living also offers practical benefits like housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance services. By taking care of these daily chores, the community allows residents to focus on enjoying their retirement and engaging in activities they love without the burden of home maintenance. This feature is particularly appreciated by those who may find these tasks physically demanding.

Access to Health and Medical Services

Most assisted living communities provide on-site health services and regular wellness checks to monitor residents’ health. This convenient access to medical care ensures that health issues are managed proactively and that residents receive timely treatment when needed. For those in specialized units like Alzheimer’s care Fort Collins, it means regular monitoring of their condition and immediate access to medical professionals skilled in dementia care.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Overall, the structured environment of assisted living provides seniors with a balance of independence and assistance, enhancing their quality of life. The supportive community setting helps residents maintain their autonomy while receiving the care they need, fostering a sense of dignity and respect.

For many seniors, moving to an assisted living community like those in Fort Collins can be a transformative experience that significantly improves their overall well-being. These communities not only meet the practical needs of their residents but also enrich their lives, making assisted living a valuable option for seniors seeking support and community as they age.

Looking for Assisted Living in Fort Collins?

If you have started the search for assisted living in Fort Collins, you will want to include MorningStar of Fort Collins. Our all-inclusive community offers an array of luxury amenities, while at the same time, all of the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every private suite is smartly designed to maximize space and include floor plans in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. All have wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, lighting, and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Residents also enjoy our weekly housekeeping service. 

We provide residents the care to help them maintain their independence, and the amenities and wellness programs to keep them engaged and looking forward to each new day. MorningStar’s all-day dining service means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule. A full salon makes it easy to get a new hairstyle or treat yourself to a manicure. Our fitness room along with specialized exercise classes will help you stay in shape; and our monthly calendar is loaded with fun, entertaining activities.  Moreover, residents have the opportunity to participate in scheduled outings and special events.  
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MorningStar of Fort Collins’ goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community also provides secure suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

We encourage you to contact us with any questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

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 one of the finest assisted living communities in Fort Collins. 

Is an Elderly Parent Having Difficulty With Daily Activities?

Most seniors wish to maintain their independence as long as possible by living on their own; and that is why many who encounter problems in their day-to-day lives are reluctant to tell their families. The problem with this is as a senior starts to have more difficulty caring for themselves, their quality of life can be greatly diminished. 

Even if mom or dad seem to be doing well on their own, experts say a rapid decline in their health from an accident or illness can catch families by surprise and make living on their own dangerous. In addition, many health conditions affect musculoskeletal, neurological, circulatory or sensory systems and impact a senior’s ability to perform the activities of daily living (ADLs). Experts say other factors indicating a need for more help include social isolation, medication side effects and the physical characteristics of the person’s home such as a second-floor bedroom. If after implementing a series of home modifications is not adequate, more measures need to be taken to keep your loved one safe. 

Experts explain unmet ADLs can lead to serious health problems including “malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and falls. In fact, studies show ADL disabilities are associated with an increased risk for mortality; and taking care of daily needs can help prevent new and worsening health issues.” They also report if family members notice a decline in a loved one’s overall health, taking steps now can improve their safety and forestall further problems. One solution is to make a move to an assisted living community, where a person can live as safely and as independently as possible. To ensure needs are met, homes use the ADLs as a measure of a person’s functional performance.

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, we provide carefree retirement years. From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and amenities to ensure residents comfort and wellbeing.  Our care services include care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication care managers.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted assisted living in Fort Collins.

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 assisted living Fort Collins, Colorado offers.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

As You Age, It's Important to Keep Exercising

Not only is physical exercise good for our heart and cognitive health but it can help older adults stay steady on their feet. Studies show regular physical activity can reduce the risk of falls in older adults at a high risk of falling by nearly one third. 

Experts explain certain kinds of exercise helps increase muscle mass and bone strength as well as improve balance and coordination, fight off osteoporosis, and reduce the risk for fractures and broken bones. Some of the best exercises are known as weight-bearing, which require a person to carry their weight and work against gravity. Examples include walking, dancing, hiking, climbing stairs, jogging and playing tennis or basketball. Doctors say if you can manage it, increasing your pace during aerobics, jogging and power walking make the exercises even more effective at strengthening bone density.  

Resistance exercises also work against gravity and help build muscle mass and improve bone strength. Strength training with weights, weight machines or resistance bands are all examples of exercises that rely on muscle contractions that tug on bones to stimulate them to bulk up. Along the same line, impact exercises such as jumping jacks and walking or running uphill have been shown to improve bone density fairly quickly. 

Healthcare providers say to be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you're taking medications that slow your coordination or throw off your balance. According to the Surgeon General, your optimal goal should be at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days, preferably daily.

For those of you looking for luxury independent living or assisted living, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Billings. We make it easy to exercise with a fitness room along with a variety of wellness programs to keep you moving. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy life to the fullest. Visit our website for more information, and if you like what you see, please give us a call to set up a 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 to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living in Billings, MT.

How to Know When It’s Time to Consider a Senior Living Community for Your Parent

It’s difficult to watch your parents struggle with everyday tasks. You’re used to your parents being the “rock” of the family. Still, now you’re worried if chores around the home are being managed, if they are cooking themselves dinner, or taking their medication correctly. These are common concerns for adult children to experience when their parents age. If you are not able to stay with your parents full time and find that they are having a difficult time caring for themselves, alternative senior care may be the answer for you.
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If you are beginning to think it’s time for your parents to relocate into a senior living community, keep track of these changes that they might be experiencing. If your parents struggle to maintain their home, such as keeping up with household chores, repairs, or yard work, a senior living community will provide a maintenance-free lifestyle, allowing them to enjoy their time without the burdens of homeownership.

Likewise, if you notice your parents isolating themselves and experiencing abnormal bouts of depression or anxiety, this may also be a sign that they need extra help and community. A senior living or assisted living community, such as MorningStar in Glendale, Arizona, will offer and encourage opportunities for social engagement, community activities, and the chance to form meaningful relationships with peers.

At MorningStar senior living communities, you will find the answer to the rumination you’re experiencing. Dedicated to making retirement years carefree, MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead provides seniors with the finest assisted living Glendale has to offer. Every aspect of our senior living community is designed for comfort and starts with 60 private s assisted living suites on two levels in a variety of floorplans. Graciously-appointed common areas include a living room, a fireside patio and porches, all-day, restaurant-style dining and more. Signature wellness programs such as WayFinders, activities, special events, and outings keep residents engaged and productive.

Want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and security that come from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Glendale, Arizona, take care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.
 
Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Glendale AZ. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Arizona. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Fort Collins

If you or a loved one needs more care, you may be looking at what assisted living communities have to offer in the Fort Collins area.  At MorningStar, our assisted living provides residents help with the activities of daily living along with a beautiful home that offers everything you need to live life to the fullest.  MorningStar of Fort Collins’ is on the southeast side of the city, and convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services.

After visiting our website or once you take a tour of our beautiful community, you will certainly understand why MorningStar of Fort Collins is the type of assisted living you want for yourself or a loved one.  Along with luxury amenities, care services and a compassionate, loving team that is honored to serve seniors, we offer well-designed suites to please a variety of tastes and preferences.  

MorningStar of Fort Collins’ stylish suites are designed for our residents’ utmost comfort and safety and include lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows,  and wall-to-wall carpeting.  Each unit is equipped with full, handicap-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems and separate heating and air conditioning controls.  In addition, your monthly fee will include basic cable TV and utilities as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal.   We also offer weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and have onsite laundry facilities available to residents.  

All you need to do is bring your furnishings and personal items to your new home and we will provide the rest including three daily tasty and nutritious meals, a 24/7 care staff, full-time licensed nurse, scheduled transportation and much more.  And in case you wondered, MorningStar of Fort Collins is pet friendly.  Please contact us for more information about pricing, availability and to schedule a 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 to learn more about one of the finest assisted living communities in Fort Collins, CO.

Gift Ideas for an Elderly Parent or Grandparent

Trying to find thoughtful gifts for an elderly parent or grandparent can be a challenge.  If they live in an assisted living community that provides for many of their needs or an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up a lot of room or already has it. 

This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy.

If they haven’t gotten a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice operated. They can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use.  

Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain or a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids. 

For exceptional assisted living, Fort Collins-area seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar. Our all-inclusive community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every suite is well designed to maximize space and options include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  Residents enjoy five-star dining, salon, fitness room, bistro, and scheduled transportation as well as our signature wellness programs and activities. Please contact us for more information about MorningStar of Fort Collins and be sure to ask us about our Move-in Specials.

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 assisted living Fort Collins, CO offers.

Assisted Living Provides Help With Daily Activities

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home.  The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care.  Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.    

Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities.  In some cases, people move into an assisted living community knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.  

Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone.  As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Billings have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away.   Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.  

Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary in size and number of bedrooms, all our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, lots of natural light and a kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave.  In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required.  Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping and delicious meals they no longer need to cook.
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MorningStar of Billings offers the kind of senior living families can trust.  Along with assisted living, we provide independent living for active seniors and memory care for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Learn More About Memory Loss

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly run into them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. 

Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. 

Other issues that cause memory loss can be medications (check with your doctor), infections such as Lyme disease, urinary tract infections (UTI), and organ failure, such as liver failure. Even a small amount of hearing or vision loss can interfere with a person’s ability to take in and process new information. Experts say once the problem is solved such as with hearing aids, memory problems should improve. 

Chronic cardiovascular problems like hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the brain, leading to a condition called vascular dementia. Depression, anxiety, chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder additionally have the potential to cause memory problems but typically go away once the underlying problems are resolved. For any of these various reasons, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are having memory problems as it could be treatable.  

Along with assisted living, Fort Collins’ MorningStar community offers specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood caters to our most tender residents with purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, and security. Visit our website for more information about our loving home, our team and our company’s approach to care. 

MorningStar of Fort Collins brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care and assisted living Fort Collins, CO offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-loss#memory-loss-causes

The Move to MorningStar of Billings

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, we are experts in providing seniors with first-class independent living, assisted living and memory care. In fact, every aspect of our community is designed to offer a relaxing lifestyle enabling you to fully enjoy your retirement years. This includes providing support to residents and their families starting with the all-important decision process and carries through to the move-in and transition period. 

A great way to start is to take a look at our Senior Life guide. Along with our knowledgeable team, it is a great resource in aiding families who are deciding if the time is right for assisted living or memory care.

When it comes to the move-in process, our team helps in whatever way we can (see our detailed description of what is involved in our FAQs). We recognize moving into a retirement community is a major lifestyle transition for a senior and approach the moment with the utmost sensitivity. Our MorningStar team nurtures a relationship from the beginning and strives to open the resident to the many possibilities and adventures community life offers. 

You are considered part of the MorningStar family once a deposit secures your chosen suite and you take possession within a 10-day period. At this point, our “House to Home” process begins in earnest with securing the vital information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move including a medical assessment and physician’s plan of care for both assisted living and memory care residents. Practical help includes recommending reputable moving companies familiar with community living; and listening and communicating with our new resident to facilitate a smooth transition.  

While MorningStar of Billings is known for our beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we brag the most about our compassionate team who understand it is a privilege to care for seniors. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted senior living at MorningStar.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Billings, MT.

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Fort Collins

Too often seniors mistakenly believe that moving into assisted living means an end to their independence and their life as they knew it.  We want to reassure you that at today’s senior living communities like MorningStar of Fort Collins; nothing could be further from the truth.  

Aging.com explains that while changes in a person’s ability to care for themselves can be caused by underlying medical conditions, studies show the importance of seniors receiving the assistance they need with the ADLs (activities of daily living). “Functional status and the ability to care for oneself have a significant impact on a senior's quality of life.  Unmet needs for help with activities of daily living can lead to malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and falls.”  
  
Another benefit of getting the help you need is it actually gives the person a renewed sense of independence and lets them feel like they are once again in control of their life.  Independence promotes a sense of achievement as well as a sense of self-worth and purpose.  It inspires achievement, and reminds seniors that they still have a lot to contribute to their families, their communities and the world as a whole.  

At MorningStar of Fort Collins, one important part of our mission statement includes “valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals — a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  Thus, our entire community is focused on physical, intellectual, spiritual and social activities that present creative ways for our residents to stay active and productive each day.  Residents may also tap into their own unique talents and experiences by leading special interest clubs. 

Our beautiful home has 55 assisted living suites to meet a variety of needs from spacious studios to one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.  While enjoying their stylish private suites, assisted living residents have peace of mind knowing that help is readily available when they need it. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 24 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   Please call 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 one of the finest senior living communities in Fort Collins, CO.

Source:agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm

If You Are Looking for Respected Assisted Living for Seniors

As a caretaker of a senior parent or aging loved one, you carry the weight of responsibility on your shoulders to ensure their well-being and happiness. You are on a journey marked by love and empathy but also by tough decisions. If you are beginning to wonder if your senior parent or loved one is in need of an assisted living community, you will want to consider a senior living home that prides itself on empathetic and holistic senior care while still offering a vibrant and active home for seniors to thrive in assisted living. MorningStar of Arrowhead provides seniors with the finest assisted living Glendale has to offer families in Arizona. 

Struggling with daily tasks and personal care can be a sign that your parents need assisted living. If it is difficult to get your parents or loved one to bathe regularly, prepare meals, or change their clothes, it could be time to consider assisted living to ensure the safety and attention that your loved one requires. MorningStar Senior Living in Glendale, AZ, provides compassionate assistance tailored to the individual needs of every unique senior. Our retirement community offers support with activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and housekeeping to take the worry off of you and your loved one. By transitioning to MorningStar's retirement homes in Glendale, you and your parents will receive the necessary help to maintain independence while enjoying a worry-free lifestyle.

If your parent is facing challenges with home maintenance or experiencing difficulties managing finances, assisted living may be the solution. MorningStar Senior Living in Glendale, Arizona, relieves residents of the burdens of home maintenance and housekeeping by offering flexible pricing options to suit different budgets without the worry of yard maintenance or bills. While residing in our retirement community, your parents can enjoy our beautifully appointed apartments with a wide range of amenities, including dining with executive chefs and scheduled transportation. By transitioning to MorningStar's retirement homes in Glendale, your parents can let go of the stress of home upkeep and focus on enjoying a comfortable and fulfilling life.

Recognizing the right time to consider assisted living for your parents is a significant decision that requires your careful consideration. If your loved one is in need of more care than you or a paid caregiver can offer them, the responsible choice is to transition your parent or loved one to a home that specializes in senior care and assisted living. Home health can be expensive and does not always come with reassurance about your loved one’s safety and security. At MorningStar senior living, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive personalized and continuous care while in our assisted living homes that are built with community involvement and dependable staff. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Glendale AZ. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Arizona. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Glendale, Arizona.

Are You Worried About Memory Loss?

Do you feel as if memory problems are interfering with your life or have family members started to notice? Medical experts say there may be a distinction between a person noticing the memory loss and others becoming aware of it as this could signal a bigger problem and be an early sign of dementia.  

The Harvard Medical School explains the best place to start understanding the problem is to talk to your doctor. While they may not have the proper training to do extensive screening for MCI (mild cognitive impairment), they can rule out other things causing your memory loss such as medications you take or a recent head injury. Steps you can take on your own to improve cognitive function include getting enough sleep each night, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.

After your own physician has completed an examination, and nothing appears to explain your memory loss, it is time to see a specialist. They, or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter or hospital should be able to recommend a behavioral neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. He or she will probably start with a series of written, on the computer, or oral tests to “assess memory, reasoning, attention, language, visual functions, motor functions, and social functions (such as empathy and knowing how to behave appropriately in social situations).”

They will check for “abnormalities in muscle strength, coordination, reflexes, senses, eye movement, and the pupils’ reaction to light, which can signal abnormalities in specific areas of the brain.” In addition, the doctor will check for Parkinson’s, a stroke or tumors, and will probably schedule a hearing and vision test. If indicated, you may have advanced testing such as PET scans or your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers checked for signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Billings has suites devoted to the individualized care of those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our Reflections Neighborhood was designed from the ground up to provide a secure setting, which allows residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily.  Our specialized memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the essence of the individual, and to celebrate and elevate life. Please visit our website to learn more about senior living at MorningStar and all the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

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 independent living,   assisted living    and memory care in Billings, MT.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/mild-cognitive-impairment

Enjoy Gardening in Raised Beds or Containers

For many people in apartments, condos, or small patio homes, having a large garden is not feasible, and even for homeowners with large yards, an extensive gardening space may be simply too much work. This is where container gardening and raised bed gardening allows a person the satisfaction of growing something that is good to eat. 

While it doesn’t matter if you use terracotta, wood, or plastic pots, make sure they have enough depth and room for the particular plants. Gardening experts say the best way to give your plants a good start is to buy a good quality potting soil containing manure, sand, perlite, or vermiculite. They warn against using soil from your backyard as it may be contaminated from an earlier time, and most likely not have the nutrients your plants need to thrive.  

For beginner gardeners, TV personality and landscape designer Carson Arthur recommends starting with herbs. He says herbs like mint, thyme, cilantro, and basil are simple to grow, and do not require too much water. If you do expand your choices, Arthur advises you to think about your growing conditions. For example, if you want to grow tomatoes, how much sun do they require each day and how much does your space get?

Additionally, keep track of what was planted in a particular pot from year to year as some plants use a lot of the soil’s nutrients. To use the same pots to grow tomatoes in again, experts say you will have to replenish the soil with calcium. Another tip is to research what plants pair together well. One excellent pairing is tomatoes and onions. Not only do they do well but onions provide tomatoes with protection against insects. Another good mix is planting various vegetables from the cabbage family together.     

At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, we offer independent living and assisted living apartments in a range of floor plans and configurations. As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax and play in beautiful surroundings. Among our many amenities, we have spacious landscaped grounds, strolling paths, and raised garden beds.  Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for luxury senior living in Billings, MT.

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 independent living,   assisted living  and memory care in Billings, MT.

Source:learn.eartheasy.com/articles/10-expert-tips-for-raised-garden-beds-and-planters/

Visiting a Loved One in an Assisted Living Community

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living community by letting them know they are very special to us.  To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit.  ​

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit.  Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game.  You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or to start a new one.  If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together.  If they love listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together.  If they love sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help them get them ready to mail.   If they love to be pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.   

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink.  Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home.   However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big.  Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community.  Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.   

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fort Collins, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents, but we know they always look forward to seeing their family.  Our community has beautiful and inviting common areas to enjoy with visiting family and friends.  For assisted living Fort Collins seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely.  

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 assisted living Fort Collins, CO has to offer.