Children May Struggle to Understand Dementia

When a grandparent or another close family member or friend suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it can be difficult for children to understand, especially if they are very close to the person. Most likely they have questions and concerns regarding the disease and may be struggling with a range of emotions including sadness and confusion. They may not know how to act around the person anymore or be frightened by the “strange behavior.”

Having grandma or grandpa call you by mom or dad’s name or asking the same question again and again are just some of the strange things kids see happening to a beloved grandparent. They may worry Alzheimer’s is contagious and it is important they know it isn’t but rather a degenerative disease that happens in the brain. If the person lives with them, they may be embarrassed to have friends around due to the person’s behavior, and sometimes children withdraw from the person or lose patience.

The Alzheimer’s Association suggests sitting down with your child and telling them while the person may forget your name, they can still feel your love. Encourage questions and provide honest answers, and perhaps together you can learn more about the disease. The experts offer ideas on things kids can do with the person such as listening to music, setting the table, working on a puzzle, reading a book or looking at family photos. As the person’s disease progresses, make sure your kids feel comfortable asking more questions. Regardless of how old we are, losing a loved one to Alzheimer’s disease is challenging for everyone.

Along with independent living and assisted living, MorningStar at RidgeGate in Lone Tree, Colorado offers 29 suites for the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, they deserve the best care. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted senior living at MorningStar.

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 independent living, assisted living and retirement communities in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Source: alz.org/help-support/resources/kids/talking-kids-about-dementia

Starting an Exercise Routine as an Older Adult

If you are an older adult who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin. For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did. And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin. In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints. Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair. Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.” They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some. Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself. Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.

At MorningStar at RidgeGate, we offer independent and assisted living in the Highlands Ranch, CO area with a wide range of amenities and wellness programs that include exercise classes. Our beautiful community has a choice of apartments and is close to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. Contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury memory care at MorningStar.

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 and retirement communities Highlands Ranch, CO offers. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/

Radishes for Heart Health: Why They’re a Must in Your Diet

When it comes to heart-healthy foods, radishes don’t always get the spotlight—but they should! These colorful root vegetables are packed with nutrients that support cardiovascular health, improve circulation, and help regulate blood pressure. Plus, they’re crisp, refreshing, and easy to add to meals in memory care.

Radishes Help Regulate Blood Pressure

One of the biggest risk factors for heart disease is high blood pressure. Radishes are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessels and keep blood pressure at a healthy level.

• Potassium balances sodium levels, preventing spikes in blood pressure.
• Nitrates in radishes improve circulation, helping the heart pump more efficiently.
• Natural diuretic properties help flush out excess fluids, reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Adding potassium-rich foods in assisted living communities like radishes to your diet can support long-term heart health.

Antioxidants That Protect the Heart

Radishes contain powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins and vitamin C, which help reduce inflammation and protect blood vessels. These antioxidants:

• Prevent oxidative stress, which damages cells and accelerates aging.
• Support artery health, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.
• Boost collagen production, keeping blood vessels flexible and strong.

A Natural Way to Lower Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease, but radishes contain compounds that may help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).

• Fiber in radishes binds to cholesterol, helping remove it from the body.
• Sulfur compounds improve liver function, aiding in cholesterol breakdown.

Radishes and Blood Sugar Control

Heart disease and diabetes are closely linked, making blood sugar regulation a key factor in cardiovascular health. Radishes have a low glycemic index and contain compounds that:

• Help regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes.
• Increase insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to process glucose.
• Reduce inflammation, which is often higher in people with diabetes.

For residents in assisted living, incorporating radishes into meals can be a simple and delicious way to support both heart and metabolic health.

How to Add More Radishes to Your Diet

Radishes aren’t just for salads—they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Raw – Sliced thin and added to sandwiches, tacos, or grain bowls.
• Roasted – Cooking radishes mellows their peppery bite and brings out a mild sweetness.
• Pickled – A tangy, probiotic-rich addition to meals.
• Blended into dips – Try adding radishes to hummus or yogurt-based dips for extra flavor.

Radishes are an easy and nutritious addition to a heart-healthy lifestyle. Whether enjoyed fresh, cooked, or pickled, they offer a natural way to support circulation, blood pressure, and overall cardiovascular health.

Why Vitamin C is Essential for Seniors’ Immune Health

Vitamin C has long been praised for its immune-boosting properties, but as we age, its role becomes even more important. This essential nutrient helps the body fight infections, heal wounds, and reduce inflammation. It also plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, bones, and even cognitive function.

How Vitamin C Supports the Immune System

The immune system naturally weakens with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Vitamin C strengthens the body’s defense by:

• Encouraging the production of white blood cells, which fight infections.
• Acting as a powerful antioxidant, reducing cell damage from free radicals.
• Supporting faster wound healing, which is especially important for seniors

Regular vitamin C intake has been linked to a reduced risk of colds, flu, and other infections—key concerns for residents in assisted living Centennial.

The Role of Vitamin C in Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to many age-related health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and cognitive decline. In memory care, Vitamin C helps:

• Lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation.
• Protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress, slowing the aging process.
• Improve joint health by reducing inflammation-related stiffness and pain.

Best Food Sources of Vitamin C

While many people think of oranges when it comes to vitamin C, there are plenty of other great sources:

• Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
• Bell peppers: Surprisingly, these contain more vitamin C than oranges
• Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard
• Tomatoes and broccoli: Easy additions to meals that provide a vitamin C boost

Many residents in assisted living communities in Centennial, CO enjoy incorporating these foods into daily meals to naturally support their health.

Should Seniors Take Vitamin C Supplements?

For most people, getting vitamin C from food is ideal, but some may benefit from supplements, especially those who:

• Have trouble absorbing nutrients due to digestive issues.
• Have a restricted diet that lacks fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Need extra immune support during flu season.

It’s always best to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements to determine the right dosage.

Making Vitamin C a Daily Habit

Getting enough vitamin C doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple ways to include it in everyday life include:

• Drinking a glass of orange juice with breakfast.
• Adding bell peppers or tomatoes to sandwiches and salads.
• Snacking on berries or citrus fruit.

Many of our residents prioritize vitamin C as part of their overall wellness routine, helping them stay strong, healthy, and ready to enjoy life to the fullest.

MorningStar at Jordan Supports Your Independence

One of the hardest things many seniors face is a chronic illness or condition that interferes and limits their independence. Burdening our spouse or another loved one with our day-to-day care is not the thing most of us want to do. In fact, it may be the time to investigate assisted living and discover what it can offer to you and your family.

Assisted living is not skilled nursing but rather compassionate dementia care for the ADLs (activities of daily living). It is based around the person’s needs to ensure they get the proper support to maintain their independence within a community setting. Senior living communities like MorningStar at Jordan provide residents with responsive 24/7 caregivers, access to licensed nurses, medication management, third-party care providers and more.

Our spacious suites available in a variety of floor plans are meticulously designed with high ceilings, large windows, handicapped-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Each unit is equipped with a kitchenette and private temperature control. To maintain cleanliness and comfort, weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal, are provided.

In addition to senior care services, residents are provided with hospitality amenities such as all-day restaurant-style dining, eliminating the need to shop, prepare, and cook meals independently. The resort-style facilities include an onsite salon, game room, general store, bistro, fitness center and theatre. Our all-season porches and fireside patio encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors. We also accommodate pets, subject to our pet policy.

In addition, MorningStar at Jordan offers trusted dementia care in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood based on Lavender Sky, our programmatic approach to memory care. It is our philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents. Our ambition under a Lavender Sky is to Enter, Embrace and Explore.

For more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Centennial, Colorado, please contact us. We would love to set up an in-person tour and show you firsthand 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 to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in Centennial, CO.

Balance Issues Are Common in Seniors

The statistics of older adults taking a fall each year are alarming, and consequences can impact the person’s independence, or in the worst case, be deadly. Experts say as we age, our bodies may start to feel less stable due to things like a loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility and slower reflexes. Poor balance and dizziness can also be a result of medical problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, poor vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels as well as medications.

Another culprit interfering with balance is inner ear problems. The labyrinth is a part of the inner ear that controls balance and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause lots of problems including vertigo. The condition called Labyrinthitis generally is a result of other issues such as head injuries, viral or bacterial infections, and circulatory system conditions like strokes or low blood pressure.

The National Institute on Aging says families and caregivers should be on the lookout for an older person complaining of unsteadiness; the feeling the room is spinning or moving; confusion; blurry vision; and falling. To determine the cause of the symptoms of lightheadedness or dizziness as well as the best treatments available, consult with your doctor, and if needed, seek the care of a specialist.

Your doctor can provide information regarding exercises targeted at improving balance, strengthening muscles and increasing flexibility. The Harvard Medical School reports walking can help build lower-body strength, an important element of good balance and is safe for most people but be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

Along with getting medical care for balance issues, experts say avoid walking in dimly lit or dark spaces, wear properly fitted footwear, and use a cane or walker if you need more support. Your home should be modified with handrails in the bathroom and more lights on stairways. Repair loose railings and uneven porch steps; and remove floor mats that affect elevation.

MorningStar at Jordan is a senior living community in Centennial, CO with 55 private assisted living suites in various floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 dementia care suites devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents, and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 for more information about the finest assisted living and dementia care in Centennial, CO.

Does Your Parent Need Help With Daily Living?

If you noticed a change in mom or dad or another loved one during 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 parents are 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 or chair), 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 at Jordan we offer assisted living and memory care. 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 beautiful home has assisted living suites in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) or trial stays to see if we are a good fit. For outstanding senior living in Centennial, Colorado, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

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 assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.