iN2L Technology at MorningStar

MorningStar of Sparks is pleased to offer our residents a state-of-the-art way to connect with the “It’s Never 2 Late” technology that combines touchscreen computers with intuitive, picture-based software.  The revolutionary engagement system contains a library of 3,000 ways to connect socially, spiritually, and intellectually and offers physical stimulation and emotional support.     

The intuitive design provides numerous user-friendly components to ensure it is easy for all of our residents to comfortably use the computer program regardless of their abilities or limitations.  With a simple press of a button, the user can launch hundreds of applications designed for recreation or social connections. 

The program simplifies email and offers webchats using Skype, an array of online newspapers and easy navigation of the web.  Each user can personalize their experience on iN2L by setting up a “My Page,” in order to easily access their favorite games, email addresses, family photos, and favorite websites.  A resident’s My Page can be used to foster interactions between family members and to keep up-to-date on events and goings on through Skype and email. 

All of the program’s activities are adapted to engage residents’ interest and unique abilities and include trivia, puzzle and brain games designed to entertain as well as to maintain brain functions.  In addition it also has inspirational videos, sermons, history, quizzes and interactive virtual tours to name but a few of the many features.   

Health and Wellness programs offer a balance of spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and social.  Also iN2L includes a fall prevention program and multiple exercise videos designed to improve strength and balance.  There is even a therapy component to iN2L that can be used to enhance speech, physical and occupational therapy experiences.   For our memory care residents, there is stimulating engagement content categorized to reflect different levels of cognition and to keep the person entertained and connected. 

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.

      

Is it Time to Consider Assisted Living?

Often a family is not sure whether it would be better for mom or dad to move into an assisted living community.  Making the decision more difficult is the fact that many seniors can be resistant to moving, and they do not like the idea of leaving their home and everything familiar to them.  However the most important thing to consider is whether your parent’s current living situation meets their overall health and medical needs, their physical needs, and safety.  If it doesn’t, it is time to start a conversation about making a change.   

Your parents or senior loved ones may no longer be safe at home if they are having falls.  The National Council on Aging reports that one in four adults over the age of 65 have a fall each year and those statistics are higher in older seniors.  In fact every 11 seconds a senior is treated at an emergency room for injuries suffered in a fall.  Other mobility factors that may comprise their safety include struggling to go up and down stairs as well as difficulty getting up from a chair or their bed.   

Another indication your parent may not be functioning well on their own is if you find they are looking disheveled and neglecting their appearance.  You probably will also want to take a look around the house and see if they are keeping it up or is it untidy and disorganized.  Furthermore, are they taking their medications as prescribed and are they eating well?  

The staff at MorningStar of Sparks knows how to take care of these needs as well as to provide a warm, comfy atmosphere to make sure all of our residents feel right at home.  Our beautiful community offers both assisted living suites and 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.

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we understand that your pet is an important part of your family and you would not wish to move somewhere that he or she was not welcome.  If you decide to choose our beautiful senior living community for your new home, no worries – we are pet friendly!  In fact MorningStar of Sparks is happy to have an adorable Golden Doodle as a part of our family.  Willow came to us as a puppy and recently celebrated her second birthday with a “surprise party” including a special cake from a pet bakery. 

More and more research seems to bear out that owning and caring for a pet can actually be good for seniors’ health and wellbeing.  One such recent study reported on by A Place for Mom’s website suggests that, “just 15 minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.”   

Researchers found that interactions between pets and their owners can help to fight off depression and lower cholesterol levels.  There is even some evidence to suggest the relationship may help to protect against heart disease and stroke.  Scientists’ reason that pets may help the elderly to feel more connected to the here and now as the pet requires daily attention and care.  Furthermore, the animals themselves offer unconditional love, unending affection and emotional support. 

Pet therapy programs are growing in popularity and used in settings such as hospitals, mental health centers, convalescent homes and child centers.  Studies show that many people who participate in pet therapy programs have an improvement in their appetite as well as improvement in their social interactions and cognitive skills.  In addition the acceptance and non-verbal communication of animals can be soothing for those with Alzheimer’s and other types 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.    

Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living   

agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

Learn more about our MorningStar Community

As MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks is committed to providing the finest care and services, we always encourage feedback from our residents and their families.  We are especially gratified when our dedicated staff members are recognized for their efforts in helping to create a true home for ourresidents.   

One such comment that touched our heart and reminds us why we are here was from a resident’s son.  He writes, "I took my mother to MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks about 2 years ago. Keep in mind that she is over one hundred years old and ever since she got there she has had excellent treatment.  The management and the staff are extremely kind, much more than we expected. They have a nice facility and beautiful accommodations and I probably wouldn't take her anywhere else, I know that I wouldn't.”   

We also feel honored to have a resident write, “The staff treats everyone well and the residents seem happy. I had family that lived in the area while the building was being built about 7 years ago. They watched the building go up and recommended my husband and I move here when the time came. I'm happy we made the decision to come here. The staff tells us they treat us like family and I really think that's true. I know it sounds high in the sky to say, but that's how I feel. I'm quite active here in the community.  I participate on a number of committees and try to stay as active as possible. If you're looking for a place to call home with people who consider you family this is a good place to settle down.” 

Our goal is to be there for each resident as well as for their family members as we proudly provide the best independent living, assisted living and memory care in the area.  As a resident, you will be served daily, nutritional meals prepared by our Executive Chef.  In addition you will find a whole host of amenities including a bistro, theatre (including Wii), library with computers and newspapers, game room, salon, fitness room and much more.  Residents also have a wide array of activities to choose from that include fitness classes, entertainment, games and special outings.  We invite you to come join the fun!    

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.

“Fall Proof” Your Home to Avoid Injury

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that one in four adults age 65 years and older falls each year.  Any time a senior falls, it can be extremely serious and is the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for the elderly.  Statistics show that 2.8 million older adults are treated in an emergency department each year for nonfatal falls, and 800,000 are hospitalized. 

The National Institute of Health (NIH) advises that seniors “fall proof” both the inside and outside of their homes.  Every room should have clear pathways that are free of clutter and other obstacles that could cause a fall.  All carpets should be securely attached to floors and stairways, and rather than throw rugs, use non-slip rugs or apply non-slip strips.

Another suggestion from the NIH is to have good lighting throughout your home including well-lit hallways, entrances, and stairwells.  Also have a lamp close to your bed that is easy to turn on to avoid stumbling around in the dark when getting in and out of bed. 

In addition wearing the proper shoes is also an important part of preventing falls.  Shoes should fit well and have low heels, non-slip soles and completely surround your foot.  Other safety tips include installing handrails and grab bars in the bathroom.

At MorningStar of Sparks, our beautiful community is designed to accommodate our residents’ limitations.  All of our spacious private suites come with wall-to-wall carpeting, fully handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  We also provide a 24/7 care staff and a full-time licensed nurse.  In addition residents are offered weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal.  We invite you to schedule a visit to see firsthand the best senior living community in Sparks NV.  

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/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/homesafety/01.html