Monday, April 30, 2018

Answers to FAQs on Our Website


If you are in the beginning stages of looking for senior living in and around Sparks and the Reno area, we recommend taking a look at MorningStar of Sparks.  Our community has 128 bright suites for independent living, another 80 for assisted living, and 32 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.   

One good way to get to know our community is through our website where you will find lots of information regarding our amenities and services as well as information and floor plans of our suites.  Furthermore the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which encompasses over 25 communities and 3,000 units under operation or development, has lots of information about how our communities are run and what they offer.   

One of the areas you will find especially informative is the “FAQ” section.  Here we go through a whole list of questions we have been asked in the past and provide families with answers.  Topics include why we are different, what we offer, and just what is an assisted living community.  We also provide help in determining if your loved one needs assisted living along with suggestions on how to begin the conversation on why it may be the time to start thinking about making a change in their living situation. 

The FAQ page is also an easy way to see if you or your loved one meets our age requirement (for an IL, AL, or MC suite, you must be at least 62 years of age).  It also provides answers to questions regarding Companion Living, couples living together, respite stays, pets, and much more.  Additionally while we provide answers as to how our fees are structured and how we determine the care you or your family member will receive in assisted living, we are more than happy to answers all and any questions personally.  Once you have looked over our website, we invite you to set up a tour of MorningStar of Sparks to see for yourself our beautiful, loving 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.

Friday, April 27, 2018

Independent Living Located in the Heart of Lone Tree



The MorningStar at RidgeGate community offers 124 bright suites for independent living within our modern 5-story high-rise.  The building is also home to two other neighborhoods, assisted living for seniors who require help with daily personal care, and our Reflections Neighbor devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related disease. 

Independent living at RidgeGate provides seniors with carefree retirement years, and as our suites are rented on a month-to-month basis and not a buy-in community, it does not require a large upfront investment such as many other area properties.  In addition we offer a wide selection of floor plans to meet a variety of needs including studio and one and two-bedroom configurations as well as large penthouses.    

Our stylish, contemporary suites offer high-quality stainless steel appliances, including a glass top stove, garbage disposal, dishwasher, refrigerator, and above-stove microwave and/or hood with vent.  Most of the kitchens include an island and all have premium quartz countertops, stained wood cabinets and high-end wood-laminate plank flooring.  Depending on the floor plan, your unit will have a side-by-side washer and dryer in a laundry room or stackable ones. 

MorningStar at RidgeGate’s independent living offers parking spaces in our underground garage available for a monthly fee, and if desired, your space can have a wall-mounted, lockable storage area above it.  We also have uncovered surface spaces just off the parking garage. 

Included in your monthly fee, you will receive a daily continental breakfast and one meal per day in the restaurant.  You can also purchase sandwiches and snacks at our Bistro Grill.  Our community has a liquor license and liquor and wine is available in our main dining room as well as at our Bistro/Club Room.  As a resident you will have access to a range of amenities including a saline pool, spa, health club, theater, salon and much more.  Please visit our website and contact us regarding availability and pricing.   

MorningStar at RidgeGate provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of the area’s finest senior living in Lone Tree and convenient to Highlands Ranch. 

Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Before You Move into Senior Living, Here’s Some Help with Downsizing



Once you decide to move into a senior living community like MorningStar of Sparks, you may be faced with downsizing decades’ worth of personal items and a houseful of furnishings.  It is no wonder it feels like an overwhelming task.   

Organizing experts have several tips to help you get started such as beginning with an inventory of your possessions.  After that, create a list of the things you do not want to part with and another list of items you would like to give away to family and friends.      

Now measure the size of your new suite and create a floor plan that gives you a realistic idea of how your furnishings will fit in your new place.  If the unit is a studio or a smaller, one bedroom, you do not want to be so crowded you cannot safely move around.  It may even turn out that you need to buy some things like a smaller couch or coffee table.   

Your next step should be to evaluate the things you want to keep to determine if you will have the room.  The process will require some give and take but keep in mind you do not want to bring a lot of useless clutter to your new home. Also remember at communities such as MorningStar of Sparks, we do the cooking and serve the food restaurant-style.   

Any possessions that are left can be sold, donated or recycled and some charities will even come and pick up pieces of furniture and items you do not want.  When you get into your new suite, use bins and shelving to help organize everything so you can easily get to it.   

Please visit MorningStar of Sparks to learn more about our beautiful community.  There you will find an online form to set up a tour or to inquiry about pricing and availability. 

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.

Thursday, April 19, 2018

Older Adults are Discovering the Advantages of Senior Living


Today’s senior living communities are designed to offer older adults carefree retirement years, and many seniors report they prefer community-style living to living alone.  This is probably due to the fact that senior living communities, which are rather a new concept, are tailored to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.   

If an older adult is still a homeowner, a senior living community provides the opportunity to say goodbye to never-ending yard work, home maintenance and housekeeping chores.  After all who wants to spend their precious retirement years mowing the lawn or shoveling snow when you can use the time for more fulfilling activities? 

Another benefit senior living offers is it helps to eliminate the loneliness or isolation many seniors experience after they retire.  At MorningStar of Sparks we offer all kind of entertaining and meaningful activities that provide seniors a way to stay engaged and continue to grow.  Socializing at Sparks is as easy as going down to breakfast in the dining room or participating in a morning Sit & Be Fit exercise class.  Even if you are the type of person who values privacy, senior living offers the reassurance of having people around when you need them.    

Predictable budgeting is yet one more benefit of senior living as most of your living expenses will be included in your monthly fee.  At MorningStar of Sparks that includes basic cable TV and utilities, three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, fitness room, onsite theatre, spot cleaning and trash removal, and more.   

Furthermore if you start out in one of our 128 bright suites for independent living, and down the road, require help with daily personal care or memory care, you get priority placement and will not pay an internal transfer fee.  We consider this just one of the many advantages to living in a community with more than one neighborhood under our roof.    

MorningStar of Sparks is a safe, comfortable community with resort-style amenities, meaningful activities and a staff who is honored to serve seniors.  Please visit our website to set up a tour or to contact us regarding availability and pricing.  

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.

Senior Living Community Offering Resort-style Amenities


Starting with our community’s exceptional architecture and award-winning design, every detail of MorningStar at RidgeGate is intended to ensure our resident’s utmost comfort and wellbeing,   Also our location, which is in the heart of the city of Lone Tree, offers residents a full range of neighborhood amenities.  Along with our close proximity to the Lone Tree Arts Center and the new Douglas County Library, the SkyRidge Medical Center is also nearby and the Park Meadows mail is within easy driving distance.   

While the MorningStar at RidgeGate community is three separate neighborhoods including independent living, assisted living and memory care, all residents receive a whole host of resort-style amenities unmatched by our competitors.  From graciously-appointed common areas that are perfect to sit and enjoy a visit from family and friends or a chat with other residents, to our large, and serene interior park, you are sure to feel right at “home.”   

Other amenities enjoyed by our independent living and assisted living residents include a saline swimming pool with hot tub and locker rooms, an art studio, eCafe with public computers, bistro bars, fitness center,  and full service salons.  We also offer reserved underground parking as well as onsite theatres, chapels and a Club Room with full bar.

 Furthermore MorningStar at RidgeGate’s dining services are topnotch.  Meals are prepared by our own Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our attractive dining areas.  Assisted living and memory care residents received three daily meals, and residents of independent living received a continental breakfast and one daily meals.  For your security, each suite is secured with a keyed lock and after-hour access into the building requires a card reader.  Please see our website to learn more, and while you are there, set up a tour of our unique community.   

MorningStar at RidgeGate provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of the area’s finest senior living in Lone Tree and convenient to Highlands Ranch. 

Sunday, April 15, 2018

What Does Assisted Living Mean?


Many families with elderly parents or loved ones are uncertain just what to expect from an assisted living community.  While each community has its own personality and differs from the type of services and amenities offered, typically “assisted living” is a long-term care option that provides personal care support services such as bathing, dressing, meals, medication management, and transportation.  According to aPlaceforMom.com, assisted living may offer “a more cost effective, residential approach to delivering many of the same services either by employing home health agencies or personal care staff.” 

At MorningStar of Sparks, we offer 80 private assisted living suites in a variety of configurations as well as provide residents with a whole host of resort-style amenities and services.  Upon joining our community, the resident and their family meets with our Wellness Director for a thorough assessment of their needs that is used to create a customized care plan.   

Furthermore, regardless of the level of care you receive, all residents have an onsite 24/7 Care Manager that is ready to ensure their safety and comfort.  We also offer a licensed nurse onsite 5 days a week and on call 24/7; medication management by certified med care managers; periodic care plan reviews; and scheduled health & wellness evaluations. 

As MorningStar defines health and well-being holistically, we are proud to offer a range of services and programs that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit.  We consider wellness to be a joint effort between our Life Enrichment and Wellness programs, which play a critical role in making MorningStar the destination for successful aging. 

Please visit our website for more information about the top senior living community in the Reno-Sparks area.  In addition to our 80 assisted living suites, we offer 128 bright suites for independent living and 32 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with 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: .aplaceformom.com/blog/things-you-didnt-know-about-assisted-living-2-19-2012/

Saturday, April 14, 2018

MorningStar Senior Living’s Website Has Resources for Families


While MorningStar of Sparks’ first priority is to our residents, we also recognize that helping our families accept the transition to senior living is important.  This is why we have a website filled with useful information and resources regarding all aspects of our community.  

We encourage everyone to read the history of MorningStar and about our Founder/CEO, Ken Jaeger’s mission to start a senior housing company defined by the human touch.  He explains that he “wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Guided by our Radiance program, you will also learn how we deliver service - with warmth, sincerity and depth. 

Furthermore, we understand that senior living decisions are often precipitated by major changes, which is why we provide a guide that details various retirement options.  One recommendation we offer is to clearly identify what you are trying to solve, and to think about not just next year, but rather the next 5 to 10 years.  We encourage you to read our points to consider for help in determining if senior living is the best solution for you, your parent or spouse.  In addition you will find some of the troubling signs that could signal the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, however please keep in mind that only a neurologist can make a diagnosis.  

Once you have reached the decision to move to a senior living community, we advise you to set up a tour.  We recommend not trying to do more than two tours a day as you will get a lot of information to take in and process.  Please contact MorningStar of Sparks if we can be of any help or if you have questions or would like to set up a tour of our wonderful community.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Reno, NV.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

What to Look for When Touring an Assisted Living Community


Just as MorningStar of Sparks encourages anyone interested in our community to schedule a tour, so do most other assisted living communities.   This is because you cannot really get an idea of what a community looks like or feels like without seeing it in person. 
In addition to wanting your loved one to be happy in their new “home,” your priorities most likely include finding a community that is well run, clean, and within your price range.   Experts recommend your first step should be to do some research over the Internet and on the phone.  Narrowing down your choices includes considering things such as how convenient will it be for the family to visit and is it located close to a pharmacy, medical facilities and shopping.  Furthermore, find out if the community is accepting new residents, and if not, you may want to go on their waiting list.   
Senior support networks like Caring.com has a great checklist (it is even printable) of tips to consider for when touring an assisted living community.  To start with, they say you should always listen to your gut instincts.   From the moment you walk through the door, do you get a good feeling?  Regardless of how beautifully decorated, does it feel welcoming and have a home-like atmosphere?  If they offer the service, eat lunch with the residents as it will help to give you a more complete picture of the community. 
At MorningStar of Sparks, we encourage families to come and visit as we are proud of each and every aspect of our community.  Not only is our community beautifully decorated and designed for residents’ every comfort and need, but we have a staff that is committed to serving seniors and come to work each day with a smile on their face.  Please visit our website to learn more. 
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: caring.com/articles/assisted-living-facilities-choosing-the-right-one#research

Looking for the Area’s Best Senior Living?


If you are searching in the Lone Tree and Highland Ranch areas for the finest senior living, we would like to introduce you to MorningStar at RidgeGate.  Within a 5-story contemporary high-rise, we have three neighborhoods: 124 bright suites for independent living, 71 assisted living suites for seniors who require help with personal daily activities, and 29 memory care suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.   

Our beautiful, vibrant home is designed for carefree retirement years and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  RidgeGate’s independent living suites are available in a variety of floor plans including studio, and one and two-bedroom configurations.  Furthermore if you are looking for a large-sized unit, check out our penthouses, which are as large as 1,836 sq. ft.  Included in our independent living, residents receive a daily continental breakfast and 1 meal per day in the restaurant.  If you wish, you can also purchase sandwiches and snacks at our Bistro Grill.   

Additionally assisted living residents have a choice of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom, one bath and two-bedroom, two-bath options.  Residents in both our assisted living wings and memory care are treated to three delicious meals daily.  Also those in independent and assisted living are sure to enjoy the large interior park that offers beautiful strolling paths, a BBQ, fire pits and lawn games.  Furthermore everyone in our community benefits from exceptional wellness programs and activities.   

Most importantly, MorningStar at RidgeGate is proud to have a hospitality and care team who feels called to serve seniors and works to create a true home for all of our residents.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s most sought-after senior living community.   

MorningStar at RidgeGate provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of the area’s finest senior living in Lone Tree and convenient to Highlands Ranch. 

Sunday, April 8, 2018

Learn More About Osteoporosis


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report that states 25 percent of all American women aged 65 years or older suffer from osteoporosis.  They found that in men over 65 years, it is closer to 6 percent.  Since anyone with osteoporosis is more at risk for dangerous fractures, it is important for seniors to be aware of whether they suffer from the condition.   

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, “Osteoporosis means “porous bone.” Healthy bones look like a honeycomb when viewed under a microscope, but for those with osteoporosis, the holes and spaces in the honeycombs are much larger and the abnormal porous bone is compressible or sponge-like.  As the bones lose density or mass and are made up of more abnormal tissue structure, the bones become less dense, weaken and more likely to break. 

Healthy, strong bone is composed of protein, collagen and calcium. Osteopenia is the term used when a person’s bones are slightly less dense than normal bones but are not considered as severely compromised as those with osteoporosis.    

Thankfully it is easy to evaluate a person’s risk of fracture with a painless X-ray absorptiometry test (also called DXA or DEXA).  The noninvasive test measures the bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine, hip or total body bone density and only takes about 10 to 20 minutes.    

Health care professionals recommend a bone mineral density test for all postmenopausal women with risk factors and all women 65 or older.  Men should be tested at age 70 or at age 50-69 based on risk factors.  The test lets you and your doctor know if you have normal bone density, low bone density (osteopenia) or osteoporosis, and if there appears to be a problem, what steps to take to help prevent broken bones in the future.  If you are taking osteoporosis medications, professionals advise having a bone density test by central DXA annually or once every two years to determine if your medication is working.    

This post is intended for informational purposes only; please consult your health care provider regarding any medical concerns.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Reno, NV.

 

Sources: 

webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20150813/1-in-4-senior-women-in-us-has-osteoporosis-cdc

nof.org/patients/what-is-osteoporosis/

Monday, April 2, 2018

Learn More about the Revolutionary iN2L Technology


Among all of the numerous services and amenities we provide to our residents, MorningStar of Sparks is proud to offers the intuitive, user-friendly “It’s Never 2 Late” (iN2L) system.  Infused with innovative technology, the software makes it easy for everyone to enjoy using a computer regardless of prior experience.  Users can easily launch hundreds of applications, navigate the web and access their email with a simple press of a button. 

The state-of-the-art engagement system combines touchscreen computers with intuitive, picture-based software.  Also with a library of 3,000 choices geared toward social and spiritual connection, intellectual and physical stimulation, emotional support, and vocational interest, activities are adapted to a resident’s unique abilities and interests. Examples of some of the content include online newspapers, brain fitness programs, inspirational videos and sermons, classic movies and TV shows, and virtual world tours.   

In addition each resident has the opportunity to create a “My Page,” with their own personal profile including email addresses, family photos, favorite games and websites.  Residents can also Skype with family members and easily receive new photos of family activities.   

The iN2L technology is also designed to be used by memory care residents and has content developed by dementia care experts to help engage people with dementia.  The software contains hundreds of entertaining, challenging and interactive games and puzzles, specifically designed for all levels of cognition. 

Please visit MorningStar of Sparks website to learn about all of our amenities and services, and while you are there, take a look at our photo gallery.  However to really understand why our residents are proud to call MorningStar of Sparks home, we recommend that you set up a tour of our 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.