Demand for Senior Living Communities Continues to Increase

The US News & World Report recently published an article on the growing demand for senior living communities as the number of elderly adults in the U.S increases.  The Census Bureau predicts that the number of people age 85 and older will grow to 6.6 million and make up almost 2 percent of the population by 2020, which is an increase of 800,000 from 2010.  Moreover, the figure is expected to go up to more than 19 million by 2050, and by 2060, nearly 100 million Americans will be 65 years or older.   

While the increasing number of seniors in the U.S. is most likely due to older adults living longer as well as the baby boom that occurred after World War II, more and more seniors are recognizing the advantages of aging in place among their peers.  Senior living communities offer the benefit of a less demanding, more carefree lifestyle and virtually eliminate the problem of social isolation and loneliness.   

Furthermore, today’s senior living communities are worlds apart from the old days when nursing homes were the only option for the elderly.  In addition assisted living and memory care communities provide the daily care personal services that many elderly adults require as well as a whole host of amenities and services.   According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care, “There are about 22,000 senior housing and care properties in the U.S.”  

MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks is one of the area’s finest senior living communities.  Located in a quiet neighborhood on the edge of Sparks, we offer 128 independent living suites and 80 private suites for assisted living for those who need help with daily activities.  Also our Reflections Neighborhood has 32 secure suites devoted to the specialized care for those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

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/investing/articles/2017-01-06/how-to-invest-in-an-aging-population

Residents are Proud to call MorningStar “Home”

Senior living communities such as MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks are a popular option for many older adults and offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  At our all-inclusive community, we strive to meet seniors’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs within a comfortable, secure setting.   

Independent living is designed for seniors who seek a simplified lifestyle free of the responsibility of private home ownership, but without the need of any care services. We offer seniors a vibrant community where they can enjoy their retirement years. Our goal is to make a home for our residents filled with a spirit of love and the promise of new friendships. 

Assisted living is an excellent solution for older adults who are finding it increasingly difficult to live alone. MorningStar of Sparks offers various levels of assistance with daily living activities tailored to meet individual needs.  Our Wellness Director carefully assesses each person and then creates a care plan in agreement with the senior and their family.  Also as we offer 24/7 care, you know you or your loved ones will get the attention they need.     

Memory care is another term for dementia care and is intended for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia-related diseases.  MorningStar’s memory care is delivered with the utmost professionalism and respect for the individual.  We use alternative natural therapies whenever possible, and try to replace medications with patience, attention and love.    

MorningStar residents are provided with a warm and inviting place and are proud to call it “home.”   Our community offers seniors a safe place to socialize and make new friends as well as a place to learn new things or just have fun with our variety of meaningful activities.  In addition if you are someone who values their privacy, you will have that at MorningStar as our spacious suites are designed to give you your privacy while offering the comfort of knowing people are around. 

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.

Preventing Falls Starts with the Right Shoes

Surprisingly, preventing falls can be as simple as wearing the right shoes at the right time.  Dr. Carol Frey, director of the Foot and Ankle Center at Orthopedic Hospital in Los Angeles, conducted a year-long study regarding safe footwear for seniors.  Her research showed that in many cases shoes that are generally considered “safer footwear” were often to blame for falls that caused injuries.   

The study involved 185 men and women over the age of 55.  With participants 65 or older, shoes were often to blame for falls.  Dr. Frey found that “bulky rubber soles worn on carpet can be hazardous while athletic shoes that are flat or worn are dangerous on wet surfaces.''  Of the group that fell, 28% said that their footwear caught or dragged on the floor or was too slippery.  Her recommendation is for older adults to consider the walking surface to best determine the type of shoe they should wear. 

When buying footwear, seniors should select low-heeled shoes that fit well and provide support.  A walking shoe with a light rubber sole is a good everyday choice as it provides both traction and support.  Avoid shoes with a heavy sole or rubber over the toes as they can stick to carpet and cause falls.  Other things to keep in mind are to avoid loose-fitting shoes or slippers, shoes with worn outer soles or with smooth leather or plastic soles.  A beveled heel helps to prevent slipping and a broad flared heel maximizes contact with the ground.  Also shoes with laces hold the shoe on the foot while walking and textured soles prevent slipping. 

This post is for informational purposes and should not be used in place of the advice of 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.

Sources:

nytimes.com/1998/02/24/science/when-the-elderly-fall-shoes-may-be-to-blame.html  

caring-for-aging-parents.com/shoes-for-elderly-women.html