Chronic Knee Pain

As we age, our knees take a beating. We use them to walk, stand and climb stairs, and they are used when we get up from a sitting or lying position. When our knees hurt, everyday tasks are harder to do. Chronic knee pain is often a form of arthritis that occurs when the cushioning cartilage protecting the knee joints starts to wear down. As more cartilage wears away, the space between the bones narrows resulting in bone rubbing against bone.

Knee arthritis is a deteriorating condition, and in addition to pain, can cause deformities such as knock knees or bowlegs. Experts explain there are three forms of arthritis that affect the knee. The first is a degenerative joint disease called osteoarthritis; another is the autoimmune disease known as rheumatoid arthritis; and finally post-traumatic knee arthritis that happens with a history of injury or trauma.

Factors increasing your risk for knee arthritis include the wear and tear that comes from age, being overweight, heredity, gender, and health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, hemochromatosis (high levels of iron in the blood) and vitamin D deficiency. Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis, severity of pain, a person’s age and other factors. Non-surgical treatments include injections, walking aids and bracing. Surgical treatments include total and partial knee replacements along with other solutions. If you experience chronic knee pain, talk to your doctor about a personalized plan to address your needs.

MorningStar at Jordan offers stylish options for assisted living with 55 bright suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care and our property in Centennial, Colorado.

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 facility in Centennial, CO.

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-arthritis

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.