Assisted Living Services to Meet Your Every Need

MorningStar of Sparks’ assisted living is just the place for seniors who require a little assistance with their daily personal care and wish to live in a community with a home-like atmosphere.  You will find a wealth of amenities such as delicious, nutritional meals as well as an on-site chapel, theatre, library (including multiple computers and newspapers), salon, general store and much more.  Every day our residents are treated to a choice of daily activities that include games, scrapbooking, art classes, writing groups, flower arranging movie nights, sing-alongs, and a variety of physical activities to name but a few.    

In addition we provide a wide range of professional clinical services to meet your health needs like having a full-time licensed nurse on staff and 24-hour Care Managers.  Each shift also has a CPR trained staff member.  We have Certified Med Care Managers and each resident has their care plan reviewed periodically as well as scheduled health and wellness evaluations.   

The MorningStar community offers the convenience of pharmacy services and onsite dental and podiatry services.  Furthermore, we partner with home health agencies to provide our residents with nursing, therapy, and social work services if needed.  As a resident, you will have a choice of physicians and receive scheduled visits.  We also provide diabetic management, oxygen administration, and catheter and colostomy care as well as palliative and hospice care and much more.      

All of our resident-centered clinical assistance is done through the full authority of our license from the Department of Health with the goal of providing each resident with a higher quality of care at a lower cost.  Please visit our website for more information about the extensive services provided to MorningStar residents.   

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Exercise May Help Slow the Decline of Alzheimer’s

A recent article from the New York Times reports on a study that achieved modest improvement in the physical decline and memory loss for some people in the early-stages of Alzheimer’s.  Conducted by the University of Kansas, it is one of the first studies to use physical activity as an experimental treatment for dementia and their results suggest frequent, brisk walks may help to “bolster physical abilities and slow memory loss”  

While the improvements were not universal in all study participants, researchers are now considering the question of why exercise helps some people with dementia and not others.  We know earlier studies support a correlation between regular physical exercise and improved memory and also find that active seniors are less likely to develop mild cognitive decline, which is a frequent precursor to Alzheimer’s.  This may be due to the fact that brain scans show physically active older people have more volume in their brain’s hippocampus (the part of the brain linked to memory function) than their sedentary peers. 

Until this study, most of the research has involved trying to prove whether or not exercise can help to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.   In this new research, published by PLOSOne, it considers whether or not exercise can help to improve the trajectory of the disease.  The participants were all older adults who had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and were still in the early stages.  They also had the ability to walk well. 

The research “assessed the effect of 26 weeks (6 months) of a supervised aerobic exercise program on memory, executive function, functional ability and depression in early AD.”  The conclusion drawn from the study suggests that the exercise fitness gains produced not only improved memory performance but reduced hippocampal atrophy.  It is still unclear why only some of the participants’ fitness endurance and brain activity improved.  Researchers speculate that perhaps a specific exercise program may be more beneficial to a wider group of participants.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Sources:nytimes.com/2017/03/01/well/move/frequent-brisk-walks-may-aid-those-with-early alzheimers.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fwell&action=click&contentCollection=well&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=1&pgtype=sectionfront&_r=0

journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0170547

The Risk of Osteoarthritis Increases with Age

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition of the joints that affects over 30 million Americans, and while it can occur at any age, the risk of developing OA increases with age.  OA is caused by damage or breakdown of joint cartilage between bones.  It is believed there is a hereditary component that predisposes some people to OA, and that being overweight can contribute to the severity and early onset of the disease.

Cartilage is the firm, rubbery tissue that lines the joints and allows them to move smoothly as well as cushion the bones.  Stress placed on joints over the years wears away the cartilage causing stiffness, swelling, and pain.  OA most commonly affects hips, knees, hands, feet, and spine but can affect any joint.  Sports injuries and fractures can cause OA later on in life and certain jobs that are strenuous on joints (kneeling or standing for long periods of time) can put you at added risk. 

While there is no cure for OA, it is treated with pain management, strengthening the muscles surrounding the joint, and reducing the weight on the joints.  An occupational therapist can teach you ways to move to lessen the pain without adding more stress to the joint.  A physical therapist will show you the exercises to do to strengthen your muscles and work to improve things like walking and posture.  Some OA sufferers have turned to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, meditation, relaxation, and massage techniques. 

For informational purposes only, please consult your health care provider if you have any questions regarding your health. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Sources: 

cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm

webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/osteoarthritis-basics#1

Seniors Believe Technology is a Positive Thing

Despite often stereo-typing seniors as not knowing how to use or even liking today’s technology, a recent study from the Pew Research Center shows that may not be actually true.  Monica Anderson, the lead author of the study, explains that, "Even though they might be less likely to use these forms of technology, they do believe that technology is a quite positive thing for our society."  Moreover there are several new technologies that seniors have happily embraced. 

According to the research that involved surveying 3,015 adults, one of the most popular tech items older adults have adopted are smartphones.  The Pew study reports that the number of people 65 years and older who now own a smartphone is more than double from what is was just three years ago.  The rate of ownership went from 18 percent in 2013 to 42 percent of seniors not only owning a smartphone but willing to learn new ways to use them.  In fact Sanette Chao, a spokesperson for Verizon, states that the majority of the people who attend their Intro to Smartphone sessions are seniors. 

Another tool that seniors are using is the Internet.  Compared to the 12 percent of seniors who used the Internet in 2000, two-thirds of them are now using it.  However the numbers do change when you start looking at older seniors as the majority of those over 80 do not use the Internet.   Tablets are owned by approximated a third of seniors 65 years and older and 19 percent of older adults read their books on an e-reader.  E-readers offer the advantage of downloading a book whenever you want as well as the ability to change font size, which is great for seniors who are visually impaired.  

Other new technologies being adopted by older adults include direct deposit and online banking.  More seniors are also using social media and the Pew study found that one-third of all seniors’ survey used facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.   

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Source:money.usnews.com/money/retirement/aging/articles/2017-07-24/5-technologies-older-americans-have-embraced 

Assisted Living Offers Peace of Mind for Families

For family members, assisted living and memory care can offer peace of mind knowing that your parent or loved one is receiving the care and companionship they need to live safely and as independently as possible.  However we recognize that for some adult children or spouses, considering assisted living brings up feelings of guilt as you think you are not doing enough for them.   

As an adult child, you may realize that you have too many responsibilities already on your plate including your own children, a job and other constraints but still feel guilty about not offering your parent a home with you.  Even if you are a caregiver that has reached the point where you know the job is taking a toll on your own health and well-being and you are no longer able to provide the level of care your loved needs, you may still be hesitant to make changes.   

This is why assisted living and memory care communities such as MorningStar of Sparks offer the perfect solution.  Our purpose is not to replace you in the life of your aging parent or spouse but rather to assist you in your efforts to make their lives easier, safer and more comfortable.  

Our community was designed and built to accommodate the needs of seniors.  Every aspect of our interior common rooms and suites as well as the outdoor grounds is intended to make our residents feel like they are in a true “home.”  From beautiful, private suites that are just waiting for your personal furnishings, delicious three meals a day served restaurant-style, activities galore or companionship; we provide a lovely home.  Please contact us with any questions you may have or set up a visit to see firsthand our beautiful community.   

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

 

Become Educated about Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association, heart attack warning signs involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes (or that goes away and comes back). They describe it like an “uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.”  Signs can also include discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.  Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or lightheadedness.  As heart disease is the number one killer for both men and women in the U.S. as well as globally, it is important to know the facts and a great resource for up-to-date information is the American Heart Association’s website.   

The site has lots of current information on the causes and treatment for atherosclerosis, which is the disease that develops when plaque builds up inside the arteries.  Once plaque has built up and narrowed the arteries, it is more difficult for the blood to flow through and increases the chance of a blood clot forming that can stop blood from flowing altogether.   Atherosclerosis is one of the leading causes of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral vascular disease.     

Ischemic strokes are the most common type of strokes and occur when a blood vessel that feeds the brain is blocked (typically from a blood clot).  Hemorrhagic strokes are caused when weakened blood vessels rupture.  There are two types of weakened blood vessels that are typically responsible: aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).   

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is not pumping blood as effectively as it should, and thus, not meeting the body’s blood and oxygen needs.  It is one of the most common causes of hospitalization in adults 65years and older.  Treatment includes medications, surgery and lifestyle changes.  If left untreated, the problem can worsen.     

Our post is for information purposes only and not a substitute for seeking medical advice from your health care provider.

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Source:heart.org/HEARTORG/Caregiver/Resources/WhatisCardiovascularDisease/What-is-Cardiovascular-Disease_UCM_301852_Article.jsp#

 

The Best Memory Care for Your Loved One

Along with an increased awareness of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, there has been a move to advance best care practices for those suffering from the disease over the last couple of decades.  In addition to medications that can help slow down the progression of the disease, many specialists in the field have worked to improve the approaches to care.   

At MorningStar of Sparks, our Reflections Neighborhood is dedicated to the individualized care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic care begins with the utmost respect and compassion for our special residents that is borne out of a deep understanding of the disease.   Furthermore, we recognize that a prognosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia is frightening to not only the individual but to their family and strive to provide support for them as well. 

Our Reflections Neighborhood is equipped to care for your family member at the onset of the disease as well as in the most advanced stages.  Our community has secure outdoor space reserved for our memory care residents and we provide assistance in whatever way your loved one needs us including eating and daily personal care activities.  Right from the start, we interview the family so we may become familiar with the resident’s personal preferences, background, and hobbies, and then design a care plan suited around their needs.     

Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  We strive to make each day as special as possible for our memory care residents and we have a wonderful team of caregivers that put their hearts and souls into helping us achieve that goal.  Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar of Sparks’ quality memory care.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Annual Eye Exams are Important for Seniors

Eye problems are a common complaint among the elderly.  The American Optometric Association advises that older adults need to be aware of the warning signs of age-related eye health problems as they can cause loss of vision.  Also since some eye diseases have no early symptoms, they recommend annual eye examinations for everyone over age 60.  It is important to remember that while many eye conditions are easily treated, diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure can lead to serious eye problems. 

One almost universal vision change experienced by older adults is Presbyopia, which is the gradual, age-related loss of the eyes' ability to focus clearly on nearby objects.   Typically the condition is not treated with any intervention other than a pair of reading glasses.  

Floaters are another problem seniors experience and appear as tiny specks or spots that seem to float across your field of vision.  The Mayo Clinic says that most eye floaters are caused by “age-related changes that occur as the jelly-like substance (vitreous) inside your eyes becomes more liquid. Microscopic fibers within the vitreous tend to clump and can cast tiny shadows on your retina, which appear to you as floaters.”  It is important to have the condition checked by an eye doctor as it can also be a sign of more serious eye problems including retinal detachment.   

Dry eyes are also common in seniors and can cause itching, burning and even loss of vision.  Treatment includes nutritional supplements, medications to reduce inflammation, or eye drops that simulate real tears.  On the other side some older adults can have too many tears that may result from temperature changes or sensitivity to light.  Taking precautions such as wearing sunglasses can help but you should be checked by your doctor as it could signal an infection or blocked tear duct.     

In addition cataracts and glaucoma are frequent problems affecting older adults.  In the case of cataracts, once they begin to affect your eyesight they can usually be removed by surgery.  Glaucoma is not curable but it is treatable, and without treatment, it can eventually lead to permanent blindness.   

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Sources:aoa.org/patients-and-public/good-vision-throughout-life/adult-vision-19-to-40-years-of-age/adult-vision-over-60-years-of-age?sso=y    nia.nih.gov/health/publication/aging-and-your-eyes 

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/basics/definition/con-20015113

How to Prepare for Your Doctor Appointment

Who of us has not left the doctor’s office and thought about all of the questions we meant to ask?  It is an easy thing to do and this is why it helps to take some time to prepare before your next appointment.  Here are some simple steps you can do to ensure this does not happen again.

First, you should stop and think about all of the concerns and questions you may have before you leave home.  Think back to your last doctor visit and make a note if anything has changed in your health since then.  Include any symptoms you are experiencing such as aches, pains, lack of sleep, weight loss or gain, and any mood changes.  Be specific with your symptoms as to how often they occur and the severity.  Write down everything you can think of that is relevant to these concerns.

Now go over all the medications you are currently taking and write down the names and the dosage.  Some doctors will even ask that you bring all of your medications in their containers so they can go over them.  You should include any over-the-counter drugs or herbal remedies along with vitamins and eye drops.  Be sure to list any allergies to drugs that you may have.

Add to your list any other questions that have not been addressed up to this point.  Mention any life changes you may have had since your last visit and be ready to answer questions about your diet, are you still driving, physical exercise, social activities, etc. 

Remember this is your health and take ownership.  You and your doctor are a team working together to make sure you get the best medical care.  Do not hesitate to ask for the reassurance and guidance you need to make the best decisions regarding your medical treatment.

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

It is Important for Seniors to Exercise Their Brains Daily

Experts agree that it is important for aging adults to exercise their brains daily.  Mind games, puzzles and memory games are an enjoyable way to help seniors stay sharp.  For those comfortable using a computer, there are many games specifically designed to improve memory; however, puzzles, crosswords, and board and card games do the same thing. 

Some of the best brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities such as playing an instrument, art, or dance.  In fact a study that monitored brain activity of 1,000 musicians during rest, cognitive exercises, and playing their instrument showed their brains “lit up in all areas, and synapses fired at rates hundreds of times more than resting.”  It also found the musicians’ heightened brain activity continued for up to 12 hours after they stopped playing.Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out.  Additionally most board games, including chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making.  Furthermore, playing games that require at least two people offers the added benefit of socializing.    

Reading is another great activity and opens doors to places that seniors may be unable to travel to as well as heightens imagination and introduces new ideas.  Book clubs also offer the opportunity for socializing and an exchange of ideas.  

Other things that boost brain activity include gardening, which was found to increase serotonin levels that are a natural anti-depressant.  Physical exercise also increases brain activity by moving nutrients, blood, and oxygen throughout the body.  In addition it “helps reduce sugars and cortisol: both implicated for worsening Alzheimer’s and dementia.”  

We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our senior living community as well as our wellness programs and activities.  MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks is dedicated to making your retirement years carefree and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Source: mindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/

What Sets Our Memory Care Apart from Others?

For everyone involved, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease is heart wrenching.  As a family, you are faced with many difficult decisions and that includes deciding what type of living arrangements will best suit your loved one.   

In our Reflections Neighborhood at Morning Senior Living of Sparks, we offer families one of the best memory care communities in the area.  So what is it that sets us apart from other senior living memory care communities?  At MorningStar of Sparks, we use a resident-directed approach to memory care with multi-sensory cues, including aromatherapy, as a way to calm and awaken memories, and support capabilities.  We also understand the importance of recreational and purposeful activities such as art, music, entertainment and exercise, all of which we integrate into our memory care. 

In addition our Reflections Neighborhood provides daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, scheduled outings and special events, and a secure courtyard for the exclusive use of our memory care patients.  Our memory care suites accommodate a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they are sure to feel right at home. 

When people visit us for the first time, they are impressed with the atmosphere of our community.  However beyond all of our beautiful well-designed surroundings, MorningStar of Sparks is most proud of our caring and loving staff.  Our mission is to affirm the dignity and value of our most tender residents and provide an environment where they feel truly at home.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

The Benefits of Modern-Day Senior Living Communities

There was a time when the idea of moving into a senior’s residence or “old folk’s home” was an indication that a person had come to the point where they were no longer able to care for themselves, but that is no longer the case. Gone are the days of senior housing being little more than a place for older people to live out their final days. 

Today, senior living communities are a lifestyle choice for many, with a vibrant range of choices that allow the senior to take control and continue living life to the fullest. Here are some benefits of modern-day senior living communities that show just how far they have come. 

For seniors that move into an independent living community, it’s like having the best of living on your own, combined with a carefree lifestyle. You still get to maintain your independence and have a stylish suite of your own, but many of the chores and tasks you don’t like to do are taken care of.  

Depending on the community, you could have beautiful outdoor living spaces without the yard work; nutritious meals served restaurant style, and services such as housekeeping and laundry. This leaves you with a lot of time to enjoy yourself; discover new hobbies, meet new friends and take part in all of the activities the modern day senior living community has to offer.  

One big benefit of modern-day retirement living is the incredible sense of community that is created. There are always activities and events going on that aim to bring together seniors with similar interests, or introduce new activities to their lives. Of course, extra-curricular activities are optional, so those who are less inclined to socialize aren’t required to. But most residents relish the opportunity to have a ready-made social life right there in front of them.  

For MorningStar of Sparks residents, life often feels more like time at a resort than everyday living. We have book clubs, writing clubs, NFL booster parties, live entertainment, and a host of other activities that will keep you busy.  For seniors that are interested in carefree living, but also want to maintain the independence they’ve had up until now, MorningStar of Sparks is a great solution.

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

 

The Heart of Our Community is Our Staff

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we recognize that our wonderful assortment of amenities and our beautiful surroundings are fantastic; however, we know that the real heart of our community rests in our staff.  We have made it a point to hire individuals who have a real calling to serve seniors and understand the magnitude of their contribution when they work at our senior living community.     

The MorningStar staff consists of a group of people who have perfected the art of anticipating the needs of our residents and going the extra mile to serve them.   Filled with compassion and care, each of our staff members has a smile for the residents and is as quick to listen to a story as they are to lend a helping hand when needed. 

In fact as part of MorningStar’s on-going commitment to the well-being and care of our residents, we train all of our new hires as well as reiterate every day with our full staff the principles of our mission.  Our Radiance program teaches and celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place like a beam of light and reinforces our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.  MorningStar was founded on the premise that we operate with “servants’ hearts” and our Radiance program gives us the framework that enables us to take service professionalism to the next level. 

We are sure that once you learn more about our community you will agree with us that MorningStar is a great place to call home.  Please contact us today to schedule a tour to discover for yourself our loving, home-like community.  

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities. Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

 

 

Use Our Website Start a Live Online Chat or Schedule a Visit

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we are extremely proud of our community and want to encourage area families to schedule a visit to experience firsthand what we are all about.  While our website is extremely comprehensive with lots of useful information and pictures, it is impossible to really experience MorningStar of Sparks’ total ambience without paying us a visit. 

We understand that everyone is busy, which is why we will tailor your tour to address your priorities but we do ask that you allow at least 45 minutes for your visit to get a fair idea of our services and amenities.  In addition we would love to have you join us for lunch (just let us know when you schedule your tour) to not only get a taste of our delicious, nutritional meals but to have a chance to enjoy the company.  If you do want lunch, please plan to be here for about 90 minutes.    

There are two easy ways to schedule a tour.  You can go to our website and open the link to our convenient online form that takes just a few moments to fill out or pick up your phone and give us a call.  Also if you would like, go ahead and initiate a live online chat with our operators and let us know how we can be of service.  You will have the opportunity to ask a few questions and to leave your contact information so we can get back to you promptly. 

MorningStar of Sparks offers 128 graciously appointed independent living suites, as well as 80 beautiful and spacious assisted living suites for those needing some additional help.    Our Reflections Neighborhood for memory care offers 32 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with memory impairments.  You or your loved one deserves the best senior living community in the Reno/Sparks area!    

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Considering a Memory Care Community?

If your parent or spouse is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, at some point, you may need to find a community that specializes in caring for them.  Given the progression of the disease, your loved one may eventually require 24-hour supervised care that is specifically designed to provide the level of safety and care they need.   

What important questions should you ask when looking for specialized care for a family member with a dementia related disease?  One of their first recommendations is to make sure that the memory care community you are considering is fully equipped to care for the needs of your loved one.    

In order to determine the level of care your parent or spouse requires, they suggest making a list of their medical and physical needs starting with their level of mobility and do they use a walker or wheelchair?  Also besides dementia, what other illnesses or health concerns do they suffer from?  It is important to explain any issues your loved one may have regarding aggression or other behaviors. 

Next you need to ask the community some questions beginning with the staff to resident ratio during the day as well as at night and what type training does the staff go through.  Be sure to ask whether there is a nurse on staff and if the place has a visiting physician.  Also are residents given an individualized plan?  Furthermore, what are the living arrangements and security measures in place to ensure the safety of residents?  Do residents have a separate dining area and a safe outdoor space?  

Now ask questions about the community’s treatment plans and the type of care they provide to residents.  Do they engage in programs such as pet, music and/or reminiscence therapy?  Are residents grouped according to cognitive level and is there a place for those in the early stages?  Finally, after thorough consideration, you may just need to trust your instincts and choose the place you feel will provide the best care for your loved one. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Source:aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/memory-care-checklist 

Selling the Family Home

The time may be right for you or your parents to move into a senior living community but you are concerned about selling the house.  We are all aware that the housing market has recovered from the poor market of a few years ago but finding the right buyer can often still be a challenge.  

There are some things you can do to give yourself an edge over the competition.  The most important thing is to set the right price as a house priced too high is just not going to sell in any market.  Be sure to take condition of your home into account and sale prices of comparable houses in the area.  Do not assume the price necessarily reflects the assessed value.   

If your house has been on the market for a while, re-evaluate what is going on and discuss with your agent any feedback he is getting from prospective buyers.  It may be some repairs and upgrades are advisable and could make a difference.  Ron Phipps, a principal broker with Phipps Realty and Relocation Services in Warwick, R.I., say, “If the house looks 40 years old with 40-year-old paint, 40-year-old appliances and 40-year-old carpet, that's a hard sell”.  Remember that an old house can just look old, or with a few well-placed updates, you can transform it into a classic.

Steps to staging your home to get ready to sell:

Clean everything inside and out.  Do not forget windows and steam clean the carpets.  Make sure to eliminate any pet or cigarette odors.  Paint walls that are dirty and replace stained or worn out carpet (consider putting in wood or tile floors).  Stick to neutral colors.

Fix anything that is broken or damaged.  You could consider having a home inspection done as a buyer will probably do one anyway.  It allows you to take care of repairs beforehand.

Get rid of clutter throughout the house and do not forget countertops.  Removing as much as possible will help to give the impression of more room. 

Take down anything that could be offensive and put away personal items and mementos.  The idea is to let a prospective buyer picture living there. 

Open blinds and windows to give more light and let fresh air in if the weather is cooperative.  Set out a vase of cut flowers.

Sometimes seniors think it is better to modify their current home and postpone moving into a senior living community.  Studies show that making even small modifications can negatively affect home equity down the road when someone wants to sell.  People can feel disconnected to a house that looks like an “old person’s” home.    

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.