MorningStar of Boulder Offers Trusted Senior Living

MorningStar has been serving seniors for over 20 years. We have 40+ independent and assisted living communities operating or under construction across eleven states. We are proud of the reputation our homes have earned with residents and their families alike and would like to tell you more about MorningStar’s senior living and memory care in Boulder, Colorado.

MorningStar communities are trusted for their excellence and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Our dedicated team understands the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing our time and talents in service to others; and recognize the professional and personal satisfaction this calling brings.

Our company was started in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO, who wished to “cast a new light” on senior living by creating senior housing that felt like his grandmother’s house – true homes filled with light, love and compassion. To accomplish this, we are inspired and empowered by our mission to:

• Honor God in our business practices and relationships

• Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals

• Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well

MorningStar of Boulder offers assisted living suites with an array of amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities. Residents enjoy spacious common areas including a fitness room, bistro, theatre/chapel, general store, salon, all-season porches and relaxing fireside patio. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents.

Our beautiful home is on the southeast side of the city, convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. Visit our website to learn more about our community as well as our commitment to serving seniors, the local community, and others across the globe.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest senior living Boulder, CO.

Is Palliative Care the Same as Hospice?

To help those dealing with end-of-life issues, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains some of the myths associated with palliative and hospice care including sorting out the difference between the two terms. They explain while they are similar, they do differ in a couple of significant ways.

Palliative care is defined as providing specialized care for those living in assisted living with a serious illness. Myths linked to palliative care include the person no longer being able to receive care for their disease. The fact is care can be provided for the illness along with curative care. Another myth is the person will no longer be able to see their primary doctor but will only be treated by specialists. NIA says in many cases, the person’s primary provider will work hand-in-hand with specialists.

The intention of palliative care is to improve quality of life as well as provide care to improve help with symptoms. It also helps the patient understand their choices for medical treatment. A palliative care team may be made up of specialized nurses and doctors along with social workers, nutritionists and chaplains. If a time comes when the person’s care team decides treatment is no longer working, palliative care could transition to hospice care if the doctor believes the person is likely to die within six months. Another option is the palliative team would continue to help with the emphasis on providing comfort care.

The NIA explains hospice care provides comfort and quality of life for a person with a serious illness who is facing end of life. The myth surrounding hospice care is the person cannot receive any medications. The truth is a person will receive medications to help manage symptoms but not to treat the disease. Many people think hospice care can only be done in a hospital or nursing facility but experts say it can also be done at home.

MorningStar of Boulder offers assisted living in Boulder, CO with a range of onsite amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to set up a tour.

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 Boulder, CO has to offer.

The Benefits of Staying Socially Active

The National Institute on Aging explains that while eating healthy and exercising is important for seniors, socializing and participating in activities you enjoy can be just as beneficial. Being lonely or feeling isolated is not good for our health and well-being; and can lead to depression or anxiety, neither of which is good for our health.

Taking part in social activities can increase a person’s sense of purpose and give more meaning to their life. Whether it is starting a new hobby, renewing an old interest, or making the effort to spend more time with family or friends, being social and having an active lifestyle can benefit the mind, body and spirit.

The NIA reports on various studies that find seniors who participate in hobbies and other social activities may lower their risk for developing some health problems “including dementia, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.” A longer lifespan is linked to those who say they are satisfied with life; and other studies show staying physically active and having purpose appears to keep seniors happier and less depressed.

Experts say when seniors are happier; they are more resilient and better able to cope with life’s various challenges. More research suggests seniors who routinely participate in physical or mental activities may have fewer memory problems; while other data finds creative activities such as dancing or listening to music may help with memory problems or dementia.

At MorningStar Senior Living at RidgeGate, residents find opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. We have something for everyone and our calendar includes activities to mentally, physically, socially and spiritually stimulate and engage. Along with spacious suites in a variety of floorplans, we offer amenities including chef-inspired meals, pool, art studio, fitness center, expansive grounds and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury independent or assisted living in the Highlands Ranch, CO area.

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 independent and assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO offers.

Exercising Regularly Reduces Your Rate of Bone Loss

Did you know over half of the women in America are older than 50 and up to a quarter of men will break a bone because of osteoporosis according to the Harvard Medical School. To prevent bones from weakening, the National Institute of Health says exercise is key to keeping bones strong.

If you are taking prescription drugs, you should read the fine print that comes with your medications to see if you are taking any drugs that can lead to bone loss, increase your risk of a fall, and/or increase your risk of breaking a bone. Steroids, blood thinners and thyroid medications as well as drugs used to treat acid reflux, depression and some antibiotics are just a few of the medications known to interfere with bone health.

The Mayo Clinic suggests that to aid in the prevention of bone loss, weight-bearing exercises should be part of your daily activities. Weight-bearing exercises involve your bones supporting your weight. Examples include walking, dancing, low-impact aerobics, elliptical training machines, stair climbing and gardening. Along with slowing down mineral loss, these exercises also provide some protection toward better cardiovascular health.

In addition to weight-bearing exercises, doctors remind older adults to additionally do exercises that focus on balance, strength and flexibility. The NIH recommends for better bone health you should do at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity exercise OR at least 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity exercise.

A bone density test can help you determine if you are at risk for osteoporosis and/or whether you already have some bone loss. If your test’s result indicates a problem, your healthcare provider may suggest you take osteoporosis medicine to help reduce further bone loss. If you already have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, osteopenia or have other physical limitations, please check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise.

At MorningStar at RidgeGate we offer adults 55+ a carefree lifestyle where they can comfortably and safely age in place. Our fitness center, swimming pool and exercise classes help keep residents moving. We have spacious assisted and independent living suites in a variety of floor plans and configurations. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate care to those with memory impairment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Lone Tree, Colorado.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Long-Term Care for a Loved One With Memory Impairment

For many people suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, there often comes a time when home care is not enough and the person would benefit from long-term care in a residential setting. Of course when that time comes, you want the finest care so it is important to understand what the community offers and whether it meets the needs of your loved one.

Independent living communities, which offer things like meals, transportation, amenities and social activities do not have the ability to care for someone in the middle or advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This type of community is only appropriate for those in the early stages of the disease who can still care for themselves.

Assisted living communities offer supportive care and provide an alternative between independent living and nursing homes. However, if you are looking at assisted living, ask if they have a dedicated memory care area for those with Alzheimer’s disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association understands it is a difficult decision to move a loved one into residential care but at a certain point they say it may be best for the person and their family. As the disease advances, 24/7 supervision is necessary to ensure the person’s safety; and this level of care can take a real toll on a family caregiver. Moreover, as a caregiver, it is important to consider your own health and whether you are neglecting other responsibilities that are also important. Another thing to remember is the social setting and structure of a memory care community might prove to be good for the person.

To decide on a memory care community, it helps to visit a few places to determine which one would be best for your loved one. Experts recommend visiting during mealtime or activity time. You will also want to know how the community involves families in creating care plans; and what is the procedure to inform families of changes in the person’s condition or care needs.

Other important details to ask about include programs and activities the person will participate in as well as what is the ratio of staff to residents. Be sure to notice if the community is well-kept and that residents appear clean and well-groomed.

At MorningStar at Jordan, we offer experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs and more. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Bacteria That Cause Gum Disease May Increase Risk for Alzheimer's

Researchers at Tuft University reported a link between gum disease, also known as periodontitis and periodontal disease, to an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection within the soft tissue of the mouth, and “about 47.2% of U.S. adults over 30 and 70% over 65 have gum disease,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The study, which was done with mice, discovered the correlation, but researchers hope the findings can be used to someday help reduce cases of Alzheimer’s disease. The authors cite Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), a bacterium that causes gum disease and is already linked to kidney disease, diabetes and coronary issues to be the problem.

The lead author, Dr. Jake Jinkun Chen, professor of periodontology and director of the Division of Oral Biology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine explains the purpose of the study is to identify and characterize the association of induced periodontal disease with Alzheimer’s disease. He says as F. nucleatum generates “inflammation both locally and systemically, it affects the Alzheimer’s disease phenotype, as Alzheimer’s itself is an inflammatory disease.” Additionally, since the bacteria migrate and penetrate the brain, it can worsen the symptoms and signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers plan further studies in humans and say although there is not a proven link yet; good oral health benefits our overall health. They also say to decrease our risk for Alzheimer’s, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise.

As Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease progresses, a loved one may need more care than they can get living at home. When the time comes for memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan, a senior community in Centennial, Colorado offering specialized memory care for individuals with memory impairment diseases. Our holistic approach is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love and compassion. 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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bacteria-that-cause-gum-disease-may-increase-risk-of-alzheimers#Inflammation-and-Alzheimers-disease

Identity Fraud Cost Americans $43 Billion in 2023

Identity theft is the illegal use of a person’s Social Security number, credit card or other personal information to commit a crime. According to a report from Javelin Strategy & Research, identity fraud cost Americans $43 billion in 2023, and this is likely only a fraction of the true cost as these crimes are often not reported. Given these shocking numbers, financial service providers and consumers should be as vigilant as ever about protecting personal identifying information.

Although financial institutions are doing what they can to protect our personal information from those who wish to fraudulently use it, we can also take steps to protect ourselves. The first tip is to never give your bank account and Social Security numbers to people over the phone. Many scammers claim to be from your bank or a government entity and tell the person they are trying to protect them, when in fact they are doing the opposite. Remember the Social Security office or your bank is not going to call you and ask for your number.

Another way to prevent identity theft is to not reply to phishing emails. These types of emails or text messages can contain official looking logos and promise free services or goods, lottery prizes or government grants. Others may tell you there is a problem with your bank or another company and they need information to settle the account.

The US Government Office of Justice Programs says in the event of having your identity stolen:

• Place a fraud alert on your credit report.

• Close out accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.

• Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission.

• File a report with your local police department.

They recommend keeping a log of all your correspondence and actions taken to report the incident. This should include dates, names and phone numbers of who you contacted or reported the thief to as well as sending documents via certified mail. Keep a record of any expenses incurred in case you are entitled to restitution when the responsible party is caught.

If you are considering senior living communities in the Centennial, Colorado area, MorningStar at Jordan may be your answer. We offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home has assisted living suites in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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.

Get the Care You Need at MorningStar’s Community in Centennial, Colorado

For outstanding assisted living, seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Jordan, the perfect community to age in place comfortably and safely. By defining health and wellbeing holistically, our home provides services and programming that support the whole person - body, mind and spirit. Together our life enrichment programs and wellness care services complement each other to ensure each resident gets the best memory care.

As a testament to the full scope of our services, we look for creative solutions within the full authority of our license through the Department of Health to help extend the stay of the resident if they experience changes in their health. These solutions can yield a higher quality of care at a lower cost to the family and provide a welcomed continuity of care for the resident.

We are also proud that our assisted living residents benefit from our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. This centralized mobile station ensures accurate, onsite assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). In addition, record keeping is not only accurate but legible as well as offers complete demographic and medical information at hand. It also enhances confidentiality of residents’ data.

Our broad care services include five levels of care for assisted living residents based on a point system and determined after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director. Residents have 24-hour care managers and access to a licensed nurse either onsite or on-call 24/7. MorningStar’s services also include medication management by certified med care managers as well as care planning reviews and scheduled health and wellness evaluations.

To address specific health needs, we have partnered with EmpowerMe Wellness. They provide on-site access to wellness programs, personal training and physical, occupational and speech therapy services to help residents maintain their highest level of independence for as long as possible.

Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar at Jordan. Along with assisted living, our beautiful community offers memory care, respite care (ideal for those recovering from surgery or an illness) and short-term stays.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Older Adults Are at Greater Risk of Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. It can happen when we experience an excessive loss of fluids from things like sweating, vomiting and/or diarrhea; or simply not drinking enough. Dehydration can sneak up on people and is a common problem especially in the heat of summer.

Older adults are even more at risk of dehydration as their thirst sensation decreases with age. This means seniors may not feel thirsty when they really need fluids. Other reasons can include underlying chronic illnesses of the heart, lung or kidneys as well as certain medication such as diuretics.

Maintaining enough fluid in our bodies is essential to good health. Dr. Marc Taub, an emergency physician and medical director of emergency services at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California, states, "Water helps move nutrients and oxygen throughout our system, ensuring cells get the elements they need to function."

Therefore it is important to recognize the early signs of dehydration and to address it. The US News & World Report states these include:

• Feeling thirsty.
• Dry mouth.
• Lightheaded.
• Fatigue.
• Darker-colored urine.
• Odorous urine.

Mild cases of dehydration are easy to fix. Just drink a couple of glasses of water or try an electrolyte-enriched beverage like sports drinks or coconut water. If you are outside, get out of the sun and seek a cool location.

Doctors say since older adults are more at risk, they should take extra precautions to make sure they don't get into a difficult situation, particularly those with chronic medical conditions or on multiple medications. This would include staying indoors on hot days and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. If you feel you are drinking enough fluids but still feel thirsty or experiencing symptoms associated with dehydration, let your healthcare provider know.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan is designed to meet the needs of residents with a range of luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Our stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom. Amenities include a bistro, fitness center, salon, general store, game room, theatre, chapel, fireside patio and more. If you are considering senior living communities in Centennial, Colorado, please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/dehydration-warning-signs