Know the Risk Factors for Falls in the Elderly

We know that falls can be dangerous, and in fact, they are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) statistics state that one in four Americans age 65 years and older fall each year.  They report that, “every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.”

However, there are several risk factors that can be addressed that may help prevent falls.  The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that it is not only chronic health conditions that lead to falls but also safety hazards within or around a senior’s home.

The NIH cites muscle weakness, especially in the legs, along with a lack of flexibility and endurance as a significant risk factor that puts seniors at risk for a fall.  Another factor increasing risk is an unsteady gait when walking as well as poor balance, which can be contributed to chronic health problems and lack of exercise.  In addition, older adults need to be sure to wear safe footwear and should avoid backless shoes or slippers, high-heeled shoes or shoes with smooth soles.     

Furthermore, a condition known as postural hypotension (when blood pressure drops too quickly when getting up from a lying down or sitting position) can increase the risk of falling.  There are several chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s or diabetes as well as certain medications that can cause this to happen.  Also, vision problems, sensory difficulties, confusion and medications can lead to dizziness and unsteadiness, and result in a fall. 

The NIH advises seniors to report any fall to their doctor as is may be a sign of a “new medical problem that needs attention, such as an infection or a cardiovascular disorder.”  It could also be a signal that your medication needs to be adjusted or changed. 

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 Assisted Living and Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living residences with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand our exceptional community.

From Cooks to Dining Servers, Housekeeping Jobs & More!

The MorningStar Senior Living communities in the greater Denver area are seeking hardworking, committed individuals who would like a rewarding career serving seniors in a workplace environment that values each member of its team.  Currently we have a variety of openings, and while some of our positions require a certain amount of experience and/or special education, the one thing we look for in all of our team members is “heart.”  We recognize that character, kindness, and selflessness are virtues that contribute as much as education and experience in building a team that serves with distinction. 

MorningStar is proud of our culturally diverse workforce and is an equal opportunity employer.  Moreover we know family is important to all of us, which is why we go out of our way to accommodate flexible hours and schedules.  MorningStar also understands we need to do more than just tell our employees they are important to us so we provide competitive wages and comprehensive benefits.  We also know it is important to train our team members to help them achieve their professional best. 

MorningStar was founded on Judeo-Christian values, but we gladly welcome all faiths among our staff as well as our residents.  One team member describes why working for MorningStar feels so different, “When you’ve worked around the globe as I have, and come to a workplace that feels like home, where you are so welcomed, so cared for, so appreciated…it can take you by surprise. That’s what I found at MorningStar. Whether from staff or residents, the respect, trust and love shown to me is beyond anything I’ve ever experienced in my career.”

Please visit our website for more career opportunities at our Denver communities.  These include MorningStar of Arvada, MorningStar at Jordan; MorningStar of Littleton; MorningStar at RidgeGate; MorningStar of Wheat Ridge; and Parker Senior Living by MorningStar.  Positions include Care Managers, cooks, dining room servers, dish washers, housekeeping jobs and much more.

At MorningStar Senior Living, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  For a rewarding career, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for details regarding a wide range of assisted living jobs in Denver.

When is Forgetfulness Not a Part of Natural Aging?

Forgetfulness is a natural part of aging; however, it is important to recognize the difference between normal forgetfulness and serious memory loss.  As we grow older, we may experience problems with things like finding our keys or glasses, remembering names or certain words, and taking longer to learn new things.  In most cases this is just mild forgetfulness, and there are things we can do to help sharpen our memory.

Experts recommend that activities such as taking a class, playing cards and word games, or volunteering can all help to improve mental acuity.  Also it may be helpful to use memory tools such as calendars and to-do-lists, and to eat well, get plenty of rest and limit your alcohol intake.  Tricks like always putting away your day-to-day items in a designated place can be helpful.  As depression along with some medications and health conditions can adversely affect memory, it is important to consult with your doctor if problems continue or worsen. 

The Alzheimer’s Association advises that the type of memory loss that disrupts a person’s everyday life is not normal.  From their list of ten signs of Alzheimer’s disease, they state that one of the first sign of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering newly learned information. 

Further signs of serious memory problems involve difficulty with daily activities such as driving, shopping, and following conversations.  A person may start having trouble following directions; be confused about time, people, and places; and become lost in familiar places.  Other signs include changes in personal hygiene and attire as well as not eating well.

If you have questions regarding these and the other warning signs found on the Alzheimer’s Association website, they advise consulting your physician.  They state that, “early diagnosis provides the best opportunities for treatment, support and future planning.”

If you are considering a memory care facility for a loved one, we encourage you to visit MorningStar at Jordan’s website to learn more about our loving community.

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 Assisted Living and Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the area’s finest assisted living and memory care facility.

Source: www.alz.org/national/documents/checklist_10signs.pdf

Senior Living Communities Embracing a Culture of Love & Civility

Working in one of our assisted living jobs gives you the chance to join our loving, compassionate MorningStar “family.”  We seek individuals with a felt calling to serve, and who desire a career that allows them to grow professionally and personally. 

Our MorningStar Senior Living communities in and around the Denver area are beautiful residential homes offering independent living, assisted living and memory care.  With mission statements of:  honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted, contributing individuals; and investing generously in our team members’ ability to serve well, we take pride in creating a workplace where excellence can flourish.  

Along with supporting the essential work our team does in ensuring our residents’ wellbeing, we recognize that the way we conduct ourselves at our workplace also defines who we are.  This is why MorningStar asks our employees to take the time to be “radically relational and to build warm, genuine connection with each and all of those we serve.” 

As a way to create a culture of love, kindness, honesty, goodness, fairness and respect (our core values) and to cast a new light, we request our team members set an example of decency, good manners and polite conversations.  Our Code of Civility defines a commitment to one another by working as a team and remembering that everyone plays a vital role in our success.  It also cautions us to reject gossip and to embrace appreciation.  MorningStar believes that incorporating civility into our day-to-day lives helps to build relationships and inspires us to do the right thing even when no one is watching. 

Please visit our website’s Careers page for more information regarding a whole host of assisted living jobs including Care Managers, Medication Care Manager/QMAP, dining room servers, housekeeping jobs, and more.  Some of these openings are full or part-time as well as evenings and weekends.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

At MorningStar Senior Living, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  Please visit MorningStar’s Career page for more information on rewarding Denver area assisted living jobs.

Driving Safety as You Age

Older drivers can still be good, safe drivers, but there are some things to consider both for your safety and the safety of others.  The Mayo Clinic recommends that seniors stay as active as possible in their day-to-day life which helps to maintain overall strength, flexibility, and range of motion.  Drivers need to be able to turn and look over their shoulder and move their head with ease.  They must be able to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and legs need to be strong enough to apply pressure to the gas pedal or brake. 

A senior’s peripheral vision can decrease with age or from certain medications and other eye problems may cause drivers to have trouble seeing in the dark or experience blurred vision.  Hearing problems can interfere with detecting sounds of sirens from emergency vehicles or approaching cars.  Be vigilant about scheduling vision and hearing tests regularly as part of your wellness care and follow your doctor’s advice as to how often they should be done.  Many problems can be corrected if caught early enough.   

Remember that certain medications can cause drowsiness so make sure you know the side effects of your prescription drugs and do not drive if you are feeling sleepy.  It may be a good idea to limit trips in the car to daylight hours and when the weather is good.  Keep in mind that a person’s reaction time slows with age as do their motor skills.  You may need to re-evaluate your driving every so few months, especially if you find yourself having incidences of accidents that almost happen. 

The MedicineNet website has some safe driving tips for seniors:

Planning before you leave:

·         Plan to drive on streets you know.

·         Limit your trips to places that are easy to get to and close to home.

·         Take routes that let you avoid risky spots like ramps and left turns.

·         Add extra time for travel if driving conditions are bad.

·         Don't drive when you are stressed or tired.

While you are driving:

·         Always wear your seat belt.

·         Stay off the cell phone.

·         Avoid distractions such as listening to the radio or having conversations.

·         Leave a big space, at least two car lengths, between your car and the one in front of you. If you are driving at higher speeds or if the weather is bad, leave even more space between you and the next car.

·         Make sure there is enough space behind you. (Hint: if someone follows you too closely, slow down so that the person will pass you.)

·         Use your rear window defroster to keep the back window clear at all times.

·         Keep your headlights on at all times.

MorningStar at RidgeGate’s unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional community. 

We Not Only Serve Seniors but Serve Local & Global Communities

MorningStar Senior Living is a unique company that is dedicated to providing unsurpassed senior living in the Western U.S. including at our six Denver area communities.  We proudly provide true homes for our residents with high quality independent living, assisted living and memory care, and each of our beautiful residential homes are filled with lots of love, compassion, laughter and dignity.

In addition we have discovered our residents also teach us how to live by reminding us that life’s deepest satisfaction is found in service to others.  As MorningStar is devoted to improving the lives of seniors, the most obvious places for us to expand service is to the Alzheimer’s Association and other like-minded senior-focused not-for-profit organizations.  One of the things all of our communities participate in is the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” and our “Longest Day” celebrations that help to raise funds and awareness for the disease. 

Moreover, Ken Jaeger, MorningStar’s Founder/CEO, understands how to inspire others to live a life of selfless giving with words such as, ““Don’t wait to serve. Serve now, Today.  Get involved somewhere, anywhere.  It will make you a better person (and if you work for MorningStar, it will make you a better team member).”  This is why MorningStar Senior Living considers it our responsibility as a company, and as individuals, to also invest our time and talents in charitable projects around the world.  One example is working to help Nicaraguan orphans by building and continuing to support the Casa Bernabe.

Our MorningStar Denver area communities are located in Arvada, Centennial, Littleton, Lone Tree, and Wheat Ridge, Colorado and are seeking exceptional individuals to fill a variety of assisted living jobs.  For information on job descriptions and qualifications as well as an online application, we invite you to visit our website.  Openings include caregivers and other support positions such as food servers, cooks, maintenance assistances, and housekeeping jobs.   

At MorningStar Senior Living, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  If you wish to serve, please visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on how to apply to assisted living jobs in Denver.

Facts about Alzheimer’s Disease

Currently Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.  For older adults, it is ranked third and is just behind heart disease and cancer.  There are several forms of dementia but Alzheimer’s is the most common.  Other types of dementia include Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal disorders, and vascular dementia.  

Alzheimer’s disease is named after a German psychiatrist and neuropathologist, Dr. Alois Alzheimer.  In 1901, Dr. Alzheimer began observing a 51-year-old female patient at the Frankfurt Asylum who had a range of strange behavioral symptoms, including a loss of short-term memory.   Throughout the next five years of her life, Dr. Alzheimer studied the women.  Upon her death, he examined her brain where he discovered “many abnormal clumps (now called amyloid plaques) and tangled bundles of fibers (now called neurofibrillary, or tau tangles).  These plaques and tangles in the brain are still considered some of the main features of Alzheimer’s disease.”

Researchers now believe Alzheimer’s disease begins about a decade before the first symptoms appear such as memory loss and other cognitive problems.  During this period, toxic changes begin in the brain that includes abnormal deposit of proteins, which form amyloid plaques and tau tangles.  In addition healthy neurons stop functioning, lose connections with other neurons, and die.

While symptoms vary, the early stages of Alzheimer’s include a decline in non-memory aspects of cognition, such as word-finding, vision/spatial issues, and impaired reasoning or judgment.  As the disease progresses, memory problems increase as well as symptoms such as “wandering, getting lost, trouble handling money and paying bills, repeating questions, taking longer to complete normal daily tasks, and personality and behavior changes.”  Most people are diagnosed with the disease in this stage. 

MorningStar at Jordan understands the devastation a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia is for a family.  Our assisted living and memory care facility has 29 secure suites in the Reflections Neighborhood to provide compassionate care to seniors with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand the area’s finest assisted living and memory care facility.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet