Signs Your Parent Could Benefit From a Move to Assisted Living

Over the holidays many adult children spend more time visiting with their parents in person rather than on the phone or over a video call. It is also the time when many families discover mom or dad living on their own isn’t working, and they are not actually doing as well as everyone thought.

Experts say there are some signs to look for when visiting an elderly parent to determine if they need more help in their day-to-day life. One cause for concern can be if they have had an unintended change in their weight. Experts say weight loss is a common sign of a senior not doing well on their own. The same goes if they appear to have had a change in their balance and mobility such as difficulty getting up from a chair or walking up or down stairs, which could result in a higher risk of a fall.

Another component of an older person’s well-being includes their emotional state. Do they have opportunities to get out and about and socialize or are they spending a lot of time alone and showing signs of forgetfulness or confusion? Is your formerly neat as a pin mother now living in a home that looks neglected and untidy or is she herself looking ungroomed?

Senior living specialists explain an elderly person’s physical and mental state can decline quickly and often catch families by surprise. If you find yourself in such a situation, it may be time to have a conversation with your parents regarding in-home help or a move to an assisted living community. Homes such as MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan offer seniors a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities that help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life.

We consider serving seniors to be our calling and gladly help guide families throughout the move-in process and transition to community living. Please visit our website for more information about luxury assisted living in Centennial, Colorado. We look forward to hearing from you.

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.

Supporting a Friend During Their Grief

Many of us have watched a good friend go through the grieving process after losing a loved one and have been frustrated by not being able to do more to comfort them. Experts explain this is a common feeling and provide some suggestions to help.

One of the first things to remember is everyone experiences grief in their own way. Heather L. McGinty, assistant professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, explains grief triggers a range of emotions, sensations and behaviors and can be complex.

A person’s emotions may swing from tearfulness to anger or denial, and as a friend, it can be hard to know what to say. Loneliness, betrayal, fear and acceptance are some of the other emotions grief brings up. Some people even experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches.

If you want to help, grief counselors say to first make sure the person wants it; and recommend asking if they want the type of support you hope to offer, such as spending time with them. Some people are very private and prefer to grieve in their own way. The most important thing is to be supportive of their wishes and be prepared to listen rather than hand out advice. Also, be specific like letting them know you want to take them to lunch when they are ready, or bring over a meal, run errands or do some yardwork.

Experts say avoid telling the person you know how they feel. Again, everyone experiences grief differently. Even if you don’t understand the way the person is acting out their grief, be supportive not judgmental. Lastly, don't say things like “everything happens for a reason” or “they are in a better place.” If you think they would benefit from professional support, be sure to encourage it.

If you are considering an assisted living facility in the Denver area, we invite you to schedule a tour of MorningStar at Jordan. Our beautiful home offers stylish assisted living suites in a range of floor plans and configurations. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite amenities, all-day dining, and built-in companionship. Visit our website for more information about MorningStar memory care and our community in Centennial.

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/ways-to-help-a-loved-one-grieve?

Older Adults Often Have Reduced Night Vision

Many older adults complain about being unable to see clearly while driving at night. Experts explain that night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, makes it difficult to see well in dim or dark settings as the person’s eyes are unable to adjust to changes in brightness or to detect lights. Driving at night with this condition is not only a problem but is dangerous, and it is more common in seniors.

The condition is caused when the iris, the colored part of the eye, and the retina aren’t working well together. The iris has muscles that widen or narrow the opening of the pupil to adjust how much light enters the eyes. The retina has light-detecting cones and rods, which manage vision in dim light. When the irises’ muscles don’t react well; pupils can dilate and let in too much light or remain too small and make it hard to see in dim light.

A number of things can exacerbate night blindness including something we cannot control – old age. Dr. Isabel Deakins, an optometrist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear, explains as we age, “"The number of rods in our eyes diminishes, pupils get smaller, and the muscles of the irises weaken."

Other conditions that can cause night blindness include glaucoma, cataracts, dry eye syndrome and certain medications. There are treatments for glaucoma, cataracts and dry eyes. For other people, a stronger pair of glasses or ones that reduce glare may help.

Other strategies to improve night vision are to routinely clean the windshield, side mirrors and headlights. If you wear glasses, make sure they are clean. Be sure to dim the interior dashboard lights for night driving and use the night setting for the rear view mirror. If you are having trouble seeing in dim or dark settings, you need to stop driving and make an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

At MorningStar at Jordan, our mission is to be one of the best assisted living in the area, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents. This includes scheduled transportation to doctor visits as well as shopping trips to area stores. We also take trips to local restaurants, events and scenic drives. To experience our dementia care community up close, contact us to schedule a visit.

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 one of the finest assisted living in Centennial, CO.

Strategies to Minimize Fall Risk

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 years or older report falling every year. However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving. Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia), decreased bone mass, poor balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”

They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall. Their first piece of advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention. Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects include dizziness or sleepiness that could contribute to falls.

While falls are common in older adults, individuals with dementia are at an even greater risk. Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and staying focused on the task at hand. Other issues that may increase the risk of falls include poor eyesight and chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, and arthritis or numbness in the feet. If you often feel dizzy or lightheaded upon standing or suddenly sitting up, ask your doctor if you might have postural hypotension, and find out how you can alleviate the symptoms.

Further tips to reduce your risk include having your eyes checked annually and updating your glasses when needed. In addition, talk to your doctor about the best footwear for inside the house as well as outside. Check your home for trip hazards (the CDC has a list of tips) and install grab bars in the bathroom. Finally, ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen your leg muscles as well as balance-training exercises to improve balance.

At MorningStar at Jordan, our community is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety. Each of our suites is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system, handicapped-accessible bathroom and we offer SafelyYou technology which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and prevent falls for memory care residents. We also recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide a full calendar of activities that includes a variety of exercise programs. For more information about MorningStar’s assisted living or dementia care in Centennial, Colorado please visit our website or give us a call.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care. Please contact us to discover why MorningStar at Jordan dementia care is a great place to call home.

Sources: cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/, agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm
alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/

Stroke: Common Yet Frequently Misunderstood

Stroke is a common medical event. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports each year over 795,000 people in the United States suffer from a stroke, and of that number, around 610,000 are first strokes. Statistics show stroke to be the second leading cause of death worldwide; and experts say while common, stroke is often misunderstood.

One of the first misconceptions is that stroke is caused by a problem of the heart. Doctors explain strokes occur when there is a blockage or rupture of arteries or veins in the brain, not in the heart.

The second most important thing to know about stroke is in many cases it is preventable. The most common risk factors include hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, trauma to the head or neck, and cardiac arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, avoiding smoking and exercising can help lessen your risk for a stroke. Managing stress and watching your consummation of alcohol can additionally reduce the risk.

Another thing many people do not know about stroke is it is treatable and the faster you get treatment the better the outcome. This is why it is important to pay attention to symptoms such as trouble speaking, double vision, paralysis or numbness. If you do experience symptoms, call an ambulance. Remember stroke does not only occur in the elderly. While your risk for stroke does increase with age, the CDC reports 38% of stroke hospitalizations in 2014 were under the age of 65.

Not all strokes have symptoms and some are only found through MRIs and other diagnostic tests. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” can be a warning and requires an emergency work-up and management to prevent a possible larger stroke.

MorningStar at Jordan is one of MorningStar’s nine senior living communities in the Denver area. Located in historic Centennial, we are close to quality medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and outdoor areas. Our beautiful community offers 55 smartly designed assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans. For individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, we provide 29 suites devoted to their care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on memory care.

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 assisted living facility in Centennial, CO.

Sources: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-stroke
cdc.gov/stroke/data-research/facts-stats/index.html

How to Build a New Career or Business in Retirement

Stepping away from full time work does not always mean you are ready to stop contributing. Many retirees in assisted living Boise feel a pull toward a new kind of work, something that fits their values, draws on their experience, and leaves more room for rest. Building a small career or business later in life can bring purpose and income, as long as it is shaped to fit this chapter rather than copy earlier decades.

Begin with your reasons

Before you look at specific ideas, ask why you want to do this. Some common reasons include:

• Staying mentally and socially engaged
• Earning extra income for travel, hobbies, or peace of mind
• Sharing expertise built over a lifetime

Knowing your “why” helps you choose opportunities that truly fit instead of saying yes to anything that appears.

Take inventory of your skills and interests

Make a list of what you know how to do and what you enjoy. Include:

• Work skills, such as teaching, organizing, writing, or repairing things
• Personal strengths, like patience, listening, or creativity
• Topics you care about, from gardening to caregiving

Look for overlaps, such as “I like helping people understand things” and “I have years of experience in finance,” which might translate into light financial coaching or tutoring.

Explore small experiments

Rather than jumping into a full scale business, start with tiny tests. You could:

• Offer a short class at a community center
• Try a few paid projects for friends or local groups
• Sell a small batch of handmade items at a craft fair or online

These experiments show you what you enjoy, what people are willing to pay for, and how much time and energy you want to invest.

Set boundaries that protect your lifestyle

Retirement projects in retirement communities should support your life, not take it over. Decide:

• How many hours a week you want to work
• Which days are off limits
• What kinds of tasks you will not do

Write these boundaries down and share them with clients or partners so expectations are clear. In retirement communities, some residents choose to limit work to certain seasons or to projects they can handle from home, making it easier to rest when needed.

Use modern tools without getting overwhelmed

Technology can help you reach people and stay organized. Simple steps might include:

• Creating a basic email address just for your work
• Keeping a notebook or spreadsheet to track income and expenses
• Asking a tech savvy friend to help you set up a simple online presence if needed

Remember that your value lies in your insight, reliability, and experience. With a clear purpose, modest experiments, and reasonable limits, building a new career or business in retirement can be a satisfying way to keep growing while honoring the pace that feels right for you.

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is an Emotional Experience

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear. Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through. There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated.

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward. They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.”

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through. One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy. They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able. Finally, they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.”

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan in Centennial, Colorado offers compassionate and loving care to those with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also encourages and supports choice and independence to the fullest extent possible. Memory care residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills and art, as well as outings and special events. Above all, MorningStar residents are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

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.

Beating the Winter Blues: Mood Boosting Habits for Seniors

Shorter days and colder weather can leave anyone feeling a bit low, and for many seniors, winter brings a noticeable dip in mood and motivation. The good news is that you do not have to simply wait for spring. A few thoughtful habits in retirement communities can soften the winter slump and help you feel more steady, even when the sun feels far away.

Understand what you are feeling

The winter blues are often linked to less sunlight, disrupted routines, and more time indoors. You might notice:

• Lower energy or interest in favorite activities
• Sleeping more or having trouble feeling rested
• Feeling more irritable or down than usual

Naming what is going on can reduce worry. You are not weak or lazy, your body and brain are responding to a seasonal change.

Bring in more light and a bit of movement

Light helps regulate your internal clock and supports mood. When possible, open curtains wide and sit near a window during the brightest part of the day. If weather allows, step outside for a few minutes, even if it is just on a balcony or porch.

Pair light with gentle movement:

• Short indoor walks around the hallway or living room
• Simple stretches after you wake up
• A brief, seated exercise video or routine

Ten minutes here and there is better than aiming for long workouts you will not do.

Stay connected in small, steady ways

Winter can make social time feel harder to arrange, yet human contact is one of the strongest buffers against low mood. You might:

• Schedule regular phone calls with friends or family
• Join a small group activity, such as a card game or craft circle
• Invite a neighbor for tea or coffee once a week

In places like assisted living Boise, many seniors find that simply showing up for one regular activity, such as a discussion group or music hour, helps them feel less isolated and more anchored in the week.

Support sleep and daily rhythm

Going to bed and waking at roughly the same time each day helps your body know what to expect. Create a gentle evening routine, in senior living such as dimming lights, turning off screens, and listening to calm music or reading a few pages. Try to get dressed each morning and move to a chair or another room rather than staying in bed. These small cues tell your mind that the day is underway.

Give yourself small things to look forward to

Plan tiny bright spots into each day. This could be a favorite radio show, working on a puzzle, writing to a grandchild, or enjoying a special snack. Marking these on a calendar can create a sense of anticipation. If your mood remains very low, or you lose interest in nearly everything, talk with a health professional. Winter may be a factor, but treatable depression can also play a role, and help is available.

Meaningful Gift Ideas for Someone With a Memory Loss Disease

We all like to bring our elderly parents or loved ones a gift to show them just how much we care about them. It is often hard to know what to give to a senior, and especially difficult if a loved one is living with dementia. Experts suggest you help them find ways to reminisce about their lives and accomplishments, and give them things that will bring a smile to their face and some joy into their life.

Many ideas for someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease include personalized gifts. One such gift is a talking photo book that allows you to record your own personal commentary to go along with each photograph. This can be a fun book to sit and enjoy with your family member as it helps to trigger memories and conversation. Many companies offer such books, and prices typically vary with the number of photos and recording time available.

Buying an interactive book featuring vivid photographs and large print on a subject your mom or dad loves such as animals or flowers can also promote conversation and provide a way to spend relaxing time together. To ease stress or agitation, you may want to consider getting them a fiddle muff. A fiddle muff can provide comfort and warmth as well as activity to promote increased hand flexibility and brain stimulation.

Another meaningful gift is a cozy, customized blanket filled with photos of the grandkids or a beloved family pet. On the Internet you can find companies that will do a collage of family photos or a singular one in a variety of materials. Many of the blankets have surprisingly sharp images and can be machine washed and dried.

If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help. Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan offers specialized memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of residents, allowing them as much independence as possible. Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on our assisted living facility.

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.

Misconceptions About Dementia Include It’s a Normal Part of Aging

The World Alzheimer Report 2024, published by Alzheimer's Disease International states eighty percent of the public think dementia is a normal part of aging. More troubling is that 65 percent of health care professionals believe the same. While the Alzheimer’s Association estimates 1 out of 9 Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, remember that leaves a greater number of us not getting the disease.

Howard Fillit, M.D., clinical professor of geriatrics, medicine and neuroscience at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, and chief science officer of the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, explains, “Certain abilities —processing speed, for example — slow down [around] the age of 20 or so, when processing speed peaks; to age 70 or 80, when processing speed can be down as much as 50 to 70 percent.” On the flip side, seniors typically have superior vocabulary and decision-making skills.

The National Institutes of Health funded a study to discover if individuals close to someone with dementia looked at it differently. They concluded that “people with a family member with dementia were less likely to believe that dementia is preventable and less confident about the effectiveness of taking preventive actions.” These unfavorable perceptions discouraged them from engaging in healthy behaviors linked to a decrease in a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. Prior studies also found family members of a person with dementia were more reluctant to get early screening, which is too bad as today’s treatments are best started in the early stages of the disease.

While it is true a direct relative of someone with Alzheimer’s is more likely to develop the disease than those without a first-degree relative, it is not a given. Family genetics are not the only cause of Alzheimer’s. Known risk factors for dementia include obesity, chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. A report from the Lancet Commission estimated that up to 40% of dementia cases could be prevented by addressing such risk factors. The Alzheimer’s Association cautions any person considering genetic testing should receive genetic counseling before a test is ordered and once results are obtained. Discuss with your healthcare provider about what is right for you.

Along with assisted living, Boulder, CO’s MorningStar community offers experienced, compassionate care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our Reflections Neighborhood to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals. We also consider supporting family members as part of our job as we understand that dementia can be a challenging journey. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Boulder senior living.

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 retirement communities Boulder, CO offers.

Sources: aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2024/cognitive-decline-aging.html
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8088446/

Thoughtful Presents for the Seniors in Your Life

While we want to let older adults in our life know we love and appreciate them, it is tough to find the right gift especially for loved ones living in assisted living communities where many of their needs are provided for and they may have limited space. The goal thereby is to find something that is thoughtful, entertaining, useful, decorative and/or connects them to the family.

Simplifying things can be a good place to start. For many seniors, their eyesight is not what it used to be and replacing a remote that both simplifies things by reducing button clutter and has larger and easy to read buttons can be a winner. The same goes for digital clocks with a large readout that includes the time, day and month along with simple user instructions is generally appreciated. The same goes for a mobile phone, as one with fewer buttons and speed dial access to family can make it easier for those not as technically inclined.

A new blanket to use on the couch or on their lap when in a wheelchair can help fight off chills. Look for one that is not too heavy and easy to wash. The same goes for cardigan sweaters as they are easy to put on and take off. Even if they already have a pair, new slippers with fall resistant bottoms and memory foam inserts are usually welcomed. A neck pillow is another idea and along with providing support and comfort, can help with posture.

Another good idea is to make up a care basket full of things they will like and use. Since most seniors have dry skin, they will surely appreciate a mild, fragrance-free lotion to help soothe and hydrate. Look for formulas with aloe or oatmeal. Add to that a mild body wash, fancy shampoo and conditioner. Cracked or dry lips can be painful so throw in an unflavored lip balm for quick relief. Choose tubes over pots for easier application and hygiene.

Ideas to keep them entertained include things like classic movies on DVD as well as audible and music CDs. New coloring books with fresh markers; art paper and paints; and crossword and jigsaw puzzles make good gifts. Also, long-remembered gifts include doing things with the person such as lunch out once a month, sharing a spa day, or just coming over and watching a favorite family Christmas movie.

At MorningStar of Boulder, we offer a level of senior living second to none. Our stylish assisted living suites are available in a choice of floor plans and residents enjoy a broad range of wellness programs and engaging activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides trusted care for residents with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases. Community services include dedicated care managers, medication managers, access to licensed nurses, and many other support services. Contact us to set up a personalized tour of our beautiful community.

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 for more information about one of the finest retirement communities in Boulder.

MorningStar Senior Living at RidgeGate Offers Built-in Companionship

People are often surprised to learn how beneficial an active social life can be to older adults. However, it is not always easy to maintain as aging can leave many seniors feeling socially isolated and/or lonely. Hearing, vision or memory loss; chronic diseases and mobility issues can make it difficult for seniors to get out and about. Many lose social connections with the loss of a spouse, family members or friends.

The National Institute on Aging states, “Being alone may leave older adults more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can affect their health and well-being. Studies show that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.” Other associated problems include obesity, high blood pressure and weakened immune function.

One important benefit of retirement communities is the ease in which they offer built-in companionship. At MorningStar at RidgeGate, we consider it our privilege to provide amenities and activities that engage and enhance quality of life for residents. Our fitness center, swimming pool, strolling paths and exercise classes tailored to older adults allow you to stay as active as you like. Other amenities add to the vibrant environment and offer convenience such as beautiful gathering spaces, bistro bars, community stores, theaters, chapels, salon and life enrichment rooms.

A look at our monthly calendar gives you an idea how many opportunities there are to stay engaged and have fun. Games, crafts, live entertainment, movie nights and special interest activities ensure there is something for everyone. In addition, forming new friendships is generally not a problem as you are amongst a group of like-minded adults.

Along with independent living and assisted living, we provide memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and 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.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Lone Tree, Colorado. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

Regular Exercise Helps Maintain Mobility

Normal aging brings about a decline in our physical abilities that affect strength, stamina and speed - all associated with declining muscle mass. Harvard Health Publishing explains that there is not much decline in our muscles between the ages of 20 and 40; after age 40 there can be a decline of up to 1% to 2% per year in lean body mass and 1.5% to 5% per year in strength.

Mobility is key to protecting our independence. Along with losing muscle mass, other common problems in older adults include poor reflexes and balance, and loss of flexibility. Fortunately there are things we can do to encourage a healthier, safer aging process.

One of the first things is to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. One prevailing myth many older adults believe is physical activity will lead to injury or a fall. Experts say the actual truth is that too much sitting causes muscle loss and decreased flexibility. For older adults, it is important to exercise regularly to compensate for bodily changes in hormones and other factors that occur with aging.

Strength exercises using light weights or bands can help protect bones, build muscle and improve flexibility and balance along with aerobics, stretching and special balance exercises. These include things such as brisk walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or cardio classes. To help build strength, balance, and flexibility, consider a class in yoga, tai chi, Pilates or isometric weightlifting.

In addition, regular exercise not only helps maintain our mobility but is associated with a stronger heart and less occurrence of cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider or a physical therapist regarding the best exercises for your needs. The CDC recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

If you’re looking for independent or assisted living in the Highlands Ranch area, MorningStar at RidgeGate may be your answer. Suites are available in a variety of floor plans and feature high ceilings, large windows, fireplace, washer & dryer and weekly housekeeping. Residents enjoy luxury amenities along with meaningful wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

MorningStar memory care takes 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 retirement communities Highlands Ranch, CO has to offer.