Does Mom or Dad Need Help with Daily Living?

If you noticed a change in mom or dad or another loved one after a recent visit from out of town, you are not alone. Experts say when families spend time together after a prolonged separation many adult children realize their parent is not doing as well as they thought they were living on their own.   

Some of the most obvious signs a parent is having problems caring for him or herself is an unintended loss of weight, change in grooming habits or signs of a fall. The ADLs or Activities of Daily Living are used by experts to evaluate the needs of a person and include personal care such as bathing, dressing and toileting as well as transferring (ability to get in and out of bed, continence and eating. 

Other important signs a person is no longer doing well on their own and could benefit from some sort of assistance are based on what experts call the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These include things like paying bills, taking care of their home, preparing and cooking meals, being able to get out of the home, and socializing. 

 

At MorningStar Senior Living at RidgeGate, our assisted living is designed to provide the services residents need to maintain their independence with 24/7 care managers, medication management, access to licensed nurses and more. Moreover, all residents are treated to a delicious, healthy restaurant-style dining service, wellness programs and activities, and sponsored community outings and events. 

Our 71 assisted living suites are available in a choice of studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom floor plans that feature high ceilings, large windows, and kitchenette with granite surfaces and stainless appliances.   Each suite is equipped with a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom and an emergency call system as well as a private heating & air conditioning system, basic cable TV, and utilities.  We also provide housekeeping and laundry services.  All you need to do is to bring your furnishings and personal items. And yes, we are pet friendly!

 

In addition, MorningStar at RidgeGate offers independent living, memory care, respite care, (short recuperative stays) or 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.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

MorningStar at RidgeGate’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our 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 outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care in Lone Tree, CO.

We Need People Who Would Love to Serve Seniors

The MorningStar Senior Living Company is made up of a group of servant-minded leaders who strive every day to help advance our mission of honoring, valuing and investing in others.  With a Vision statement that reads: In pursuit of excellence, MorningStar resolves to be a company of servant-minded, purpose-driven leaders in our senior communities and throughout the world.

One of the most important ways we do this is by caring for seniors in our compassionate communities located throughout the Western US.  Currently six Denver area communities seek men and women who are drawn to seniors and have big hearts to fill a variety of roles within our senior living communities.  These are people who intuitively understand that seniors are heroes who deserve to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity, and those that would love to work for a company like MorningStar that shares their values.    

Openings in the Denver area require various skill sets and range from positions such as cooks, to food servers, maintenance staff and housekeeping jobs as well as caregivers who work directly with residents. Along with generous compensation, insurance and a host of other benefits, MorningStar wants all our team members to be the best at what they do, and do each job with confidence.  To that end, we invest in comprehensive employee training programs such as:  O2 (Orientation & Onboarding); Lavender Sky (Dementia Care); Radiance (Culture, Customer Service); Inhabit (for the Community Relations team); Brain Boosts (for the Reflections care team); and Relias Video Courses (paid to view from home). 

Our communities are a true home, and thus operate 24/7, so some of our positions include afternoons, nights and weekends.  We also offer full and part-time positions and do our best to honor shift preferences.  Please join a team resolved to make a difference with purpose-driven, servant-minded leadership.  See our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living exemplifies the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in staff with a felt calling to offer seniors lives of comfort, joy and wellness. Please visit our website and apply for a rewarding position (including housekeeping and caregiver jobs) in the Denver area.

Like the Idea of a Senior Living Community but Worry about the Cost?

While a retirement community may sound appealing, many seniors worry the cost is too high. The truth is, there is a wide range in the cost of independent living communities based on things like geographic location, services and amenities that all impact your monthly fee. 

Luxury communities in metropolitan areas tend to be priced higher as do those in more desirable neighborhoods. Also, the apartment’s square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, location within the community such as sought-after views or end-units, balconies or private patios can all up the price. Opting in for things such as a meal plan or moving into independent living but requiring a range of day-to-day services offered in their assisted living units typically increases the price. 

Experts say it is important to consider the value of the services and amenities you receive. In your own home, you may have paid for things like lawn care and landscaping services as well as encountered unexpected home repairs and maintenance upkeep. If you need the type of services offered in assisted living, consider what a home health aide costs; and could you afford to pay for services 24/7 as you will find in many senior living communities?   

The social aspect of community living is something many seniors say they were surprised by the amount of value it offers. At MorningStar at RidgeGate, we make it easier to connect formally as well as informally with restaurant-style dining, art studio, life enrichment rooms, game room, swimming pool, fitness center, outdoor dining plazas, expansive interior park, and a complement of wellness programs. 

 

MorningStar residents enjoy carefree retirement years with opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting and activities amid beautiful surroundings. Our stylish apartments are maintenance free and allow you to spend more time doing what you love best including being able to travel without worry. If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living in the Highlands Ranch, CO area, MorningStar at RidgeGate may be the place for you. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO and the surrounding area offers.

Seniors are at Greater Risk of Vitamin D Deficiency

Medical experts say to be on the lookout for a vitamin D deficiency this winter as days are shorter and we typically spend less time outdoors. One problem can be the use of sunblock, which limits the body’s ability to make vitamin D. Studies also have found seniors to be at an additional risk for the deficiency as the older we get, the harder time our bodies have in absorbing the vitamin and is why doctors recommend a higher daily dose for older adults.

Moreover, medical conditions can interfere with the absorption of vitamin D such as inflammatory bowel disease or cystic fibrosis, as can diets like vegan and other vegetarian options or avoiding dairy altogether because of lactose intolerance. Another group that may be lacking in vitamin D is individuals with a BMI over 30. Dietitian Ali Webster, director of research and nutrition communications at International Food Information Council in Washington, D.C., says “body fat can isolate vitamin D instead of spreading it to other parts of the body.”

To avoid a deficiency, experts say to include foods high in vitamin D in your diet such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products and non-dairy milks, eggs, liver and mushrooms. Many cereals and orange juice are also fortified with vitamin D. Signs of a vitamin D deficiency include musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and listlessness, frequent infections and illnesses, osteoporosis, lower back pain, mood changes and muscle aches or pains. Experts say if you are concerned about any of these symptoms, to see your healthcare provider.

At MorningStar of Boulder, we offer a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and security. Residents enjoy built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living, including healthy and delicious meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef. Just some of the amenities include a fitness room, bistro, general store, theater, and salon. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest assisted living Boulder, CO offers.

MorningStar of Boulder’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our 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 Boulder, CO has to offer.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/signs-of-vitamin-d-deficiency

Enjoy Healthy, Delicious Meals at MorningStar of Boulder

As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, MorningStar of Boulder is designed to meet the needs of our assisted living residents with compassion and professionalism. Each aspect of our home is intended to allow residents to comfortably and safely age in place with an array of luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. 

Our gracious living extends to our dining service that offers an upscale experience inspired by the belief that dining is the centerpiece of personal wellness. It is through a proper diet of healthy choices that food becomes a healing medicine unlike any other. When it is enjoyed as a community, it helps to bond us as a family. MorningStar’s trained Executive Chef has been instructed in culinary skills and menu creation, along with the soft skills of being a servant-leader. As we recognize today’s seniors have more sophisticated culinary tastes, we balance a blend of world foods and flavors with nostalgic comfort foods. 

One of our special interests is a focus on developing delicious meals around foods known to support brain health. Containing a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, they include “Super Foods” like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens. So, our meals not only delight the eye and palate, but contain the ingredients to help recharge our bodies. 

MorningStar provides many support services and the physical environment to enable seniors to live as comfortably and as safely as possible. All assisted living suites are equipped with full handicap-accessible bathrooms and have emergency call systems. Along with our delicious daily meals tailored to the changing health needs of older adults, we offer 24/7 Care Managers, licensed nurses, scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations and Care Plan reviews, and medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living in Boulder, CO.

MorningStar of Boulder’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our 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 assisted living Boulder, CO has to offer.

 

A Nutrient-Rich Diet is Especially Important for Seniors

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult.  Therefore, the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is important, and even today, many seniors have an “inadequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, folic acid, calcium, and niacin.”   

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier.  They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road.  Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy.  It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions.  We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage.  MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.  

MorningStar’s stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations.  Amenities include a fitness center, bistro, general store, salon, library, fireside patio, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. For more information on the finest assisted living in Centennial, CO, please visit our website. 

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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source:  medicalnewstoday.com/articles/managing-weight-in-diabetes-which-diets-are-most-effective

Numbers Adults Should Know that Can Impact Their Health

Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."  

While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. 

Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL.  

Finally, the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. 

If you are considering assisted living communities in Boulder, CO, MorningStar may be your answer.  MorningStar of Boulder provides residents nutritious meals, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities that promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Staffed by a dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors; we encourage you to visit our website for more information regarding floor plans, list of amenities, pricing and availability. 

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 Boulder represents the best in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our principles are based on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Committed to creating a true home for our residents within a beautiful setting, we invite you to set up a visit to experience one of Boulder’s finest assisted living communities.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-202112162660

Learn More About MorningStar at Jordan

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan is one of six MorningStar communities in the Denver area with two more under construction.

MorningStar was started in 2003 based on unique mission statements, principles and philosophy.  As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains, his intention was to create senior living that was “defined by the human touch. I wanted to recreate my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” 

Out of this vision, came three mission statements that still guide the way we deliver service to our residents:  Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.  The name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contemplation of the bible and his commitment to relieve poverty around the world.  

However, while founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition; please know that we welcome and honor all faiths and worldviews in our communities, and are committed to meeting not only residents’ social, emotional, and physical needs but their spiritual ones.  In our pursuit of creating a loving home, honoring spiritual preferences is part of caring for the whole person. 

In addition, we recognize our mission is advanced by hiring team members who hold true to our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They are the type of individuals who feel privileged to serve seniors and help us create the kind of culture we envision building – a Family for Life.   

Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years. Visit our website for more information about our beautiful assisted living and memory care community in Centennial, CO.

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 and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Receive the Care You Need at MorningStar of Boulder

Does your elderly mom or dad dismiss the idea of assisted living fearing it would end their independence and life as they know it? Do they think assisted living homes are more like nursing homes of the past? We want to reassure you and your senior loved one that assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Boulder are not a nursing home. In fact, we do not offer skilled nursing services but rather provide assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), along with engaging activities and other services intended to improve and enhance quality of life.  

It is important to a senior’s overall health that they receive proper care as the website Aging.com reports, “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.” In fact, studies show seniors getting assistance with the ADLs allows them to feel like they are in control of their life again and helps them regain a sense of self-worth and purpose. 

At MorningStar of Boulder, we know seniors have a lot to offer and the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon this truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Our beautiful community offers 48 graciously appointed suites for assisted living in a variety of floorplans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood provides 46 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

We also offer respite care for those recovering from surgery or an illness, as well as short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. For trusted memory care or assisted living Boulder, CO seniors and their families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar of Boulder’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our 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 Boulder, CO has to offer.

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

Not All Memory Problems Are Caused by Dementia

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, MorningStar at Jordan in Centennial, CO 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 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

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

The Effect Alzheimer’s Disease has on Family Members

The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only impacts the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next. 

Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. 

Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize you need more support and ask for it.  

Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. 

At MorningStar of Boulder, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages.  

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar is unique from many other assisted living communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from memory impairment. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs, community meals and more. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living or memory care in Boulder, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

The Benefits of Stretching Exercises for Older Adults

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”  

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do to remain as independent as possible. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. 

MorningStar at Jordan has 55 assisted living suites, and another 22 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our beautiful community provides tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to meet the needs of residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. If you are looking at senior living communities in Centennial, CO, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

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 Centennial, CO.

It is Important to Take Precautions to Prevent Falls

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls.  Medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall.  Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.   

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving.  The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving.  To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.    

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor.  Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives.  It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else.  Also, talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.   

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you.  Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.  

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention.  Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed.  Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home.  Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance.  Install grab bars and railings where needed.           

At MorningStar of Boulder, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers 48 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 46 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with memory impairment.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living or memory care in Boulder, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

Finding the Best Memory Care Community

Are you considering a community setting for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?  Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about assisted living communities offering memory care is whether they are up to the task of caring for your loved one.  Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road?  A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need.     

Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one.  Do they have a tendency to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors?  Do they require help with eating and drinking?  Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker?  Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes.   

Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one, now ask questions including how experienced is the staff; and do they have any special training.  If so, is it on-going?  Will your loved one have an individualized care plan?  Also, what is the staff-ratio during the day and at night?  

Inquire about safety protocols starting with secured doors, courtyards, and grounds as well as an emergency call system.  Are hallways color-coded making it easier for residents to navigate about more independently?   Is there a nurse on duty, and how extensive are medical services?   Also, ask about the type of memory care activities and treatments available.  After you have learned what you can, experts say the final decision will most likely come down to your peace of mind. 

MorningStar of Boulder’s goal is to provide the highest quality senior living, which includes compassionate memory care for those in the early onset of dementia through to the most advanced stages.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please visit our website for more information about our Reflections Neighborhood and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living or memory care in Boulder, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/memory-care-facility-checklist