Thursday, April 30, 2020

Looking for a Gratifying Career? Consider a Job in Senior Living!



Now that we are experiencing a world-wide coronavirus outbreak, many of us are feeling the need to serve and wish to do something that will make a difference.  If you are one of these Great Hearts, we ask that you consider working at one of our loving MorningStar senior living communities around the Denver area.  We are currently safely hiring individuals to serve as well as committed to doing everything possible to keep you safe while working.   And in times such as these, we want you to know our homes feel like family.   

Moreover as a MorningStar team member, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the overall success of our homes regardless of whether you are working in one of our housekeeping jobs or as a cook, dining room server, or a care manager or medication care manager/QMAP.   In fact we encourage each member to reach their personal best and we aid this effort by providing a supportive environment that includes meaningful training and mentoring. 

Under the guidelines we have implemented during this pandemic, we are also training all employees on infection control with a heightened insistence on hand sanitation; reviewed CDC information on COVID-19 and the uniqueness of this viral strain.   In addition we have modified our cleaning practices and boosted their frequency throughout our homes as well as adopted an attitude of acute awareness for any signs of respiratory illness.

Finally as we recognize our team allows us to deliver the finest care, we offer competitive wages and comprehensive benefits that include medical, vision, dental and more as well as vacation, sick and holiday pay.  To provide a healthy work-life balance, we work with team members to create flexible schedules; and while MorningStar Senior Living was founded on Judeo-Christian values, all faiths are welcome among our team members (and residents).  Please visit our Career page to see a list of the various assisted living jobs in Denver, CO. 


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 have a commitment to service, we invite you to visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on how to apply to assisted living jobs in Denver, CO.

Learn More About Alzheimer’s Disease


The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.
   
Typically, in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back. 

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition, you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions.

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity. 

As one of the top assisted living facilities in the Centennial, CO area, MorningStar at Jordan’s goal is to create a true “home” for our residents.  In addition to assisted living, our Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate, loving memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other assisted living facilities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional senior living community.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications


Keep Healthy with a Good Diet

MorningStar Assisted Living - Friends Gather Here
Right now, we are all looking for ways to help keep our families healthy.  In addition to practicing social distancing and washing our hands, experts remind us that eating healthy is more important than ever as it provides our bodies with the key nutrients that boost our immune systems.  This is important as a strong immune system defends us against the viruses that cause colds and flus. 
Foods that are vital to maintaining a healthy immune system include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  One vegetable especially nutrient-rich, readily available, and easy to cook is broccoli. It contains vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as “sulfur compounds that research suggests may boost production of glutathione, an antioxidant compound. In terms of immune support, glutathione works by attacking free radicals to minimize their potential damage.”

Another good source of vitamin C, which plays a role in keeping our immune systems healthy, is fortified orange juice and just one cup gives us 100% of our required daily dose. Fortified OJ also has vitamin D as do eggs, cheese, tofu and mushrooms that help make us more resistant to illnesses.  Beans, nuts, cereal and seafood all contain zinc which research has found may shorten the duration of the common cold.  Other foods high in nutrients include spinach, salmon, lean beef, and yogurt. 
As one of the area’s top assisted living facilities, MorningStar of Boulder provides a 5-star dining service to our residents that starts with meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients.  We also use ingredients with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds known to support brain health and aptly named “Super Foods.”  These include items like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate and dark greens.

Our team is dedicated to providing residents a safe, comfort environment where they can safely enjoy their well-deserved retirement years.  Also during the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), MorningStar could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. 

MorningStar of Boulder represents the very best in assisted living facilities 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.
Source:
allrecipes.com/article/foods-that-boost-immune system/?utm_medium=browser&utm_source=allrecipes.com&utm_content=20200322&utm_campaign=498042

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Assisted Living at MorningStar of Boulder

MorningStar Memory Care - Love Lives Right Here
If you are new to the concept of assisted living, and are unsure of the difference between other senior living options including independent living, MorningStar of Boulder is here to help.   Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our extensive website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other assisted living companies. 

To start with, assisted living offers various levels of support with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and other support services including meals, transportation and wellness activities in a residential setting.  Independent living is for seniors who enjoy the benefits offered by community living including predictable budgeting, companionship, and activities; but do not require assistance with personal care.  A nursing home is unlike assisted living as it is designed for people requiring around-the-clock nursing care.

When you visit our website, be sure to check out our FAQs found under our “Family Resources” tab.  We supply answers to many of the questions you probably have as well as a little background regarding the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  You will also find important information on how we determine your loved one’s level of care and reassurances regarding our commitment to regularly re-evaluate care plans to keep up with changing needs.  

Moreover, we can help residents find a primary care doctor or specialty health care providers such as Occupational Therapists or Physical Therapists. When needed, we provide transportation to doctor appointments with vehicles that accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.

Our FAQs gives a quick overview of the training our Care Managers receive, which includes an orientation program (and a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, 8-hour dementia training, and ongoing training in specific care needs.  Our Medication Managers are trained Qualified Medication Administration Persons (QMAP).

This is just a sampling of what you will learn on our website, but we would also love to hear from you personally as well as help you set up a tour.  For those families struggling with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, we also offer experienced, compassionate memory care.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other assisted living companies. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to schedule a tour.

Monday, April 27, 2020

MorningStar of Boulder’s Assisted Living Suites

MorningStar Senior Living Residencies
MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care of Boulder was designed to create a true home for our residents and provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  From the moment you walk through the door, you are sure to be impressed by our beautiful architecture and inviting common areas including a fireside patio and all-season porches.

Along with our compassionate care services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities, residents have a choice of smart floorplans that are sure to meet a variety of preferences and needs.  Within our 48 assisted living suites, we offer floorplans that include studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations with some over 700 sq. ft.  You will find all of our suites have lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows, wall-to-wall carpeting and mini blinds and all that is missing to make it home is your own furnishings and personal items. 

Each suite is equipped with a kitchenette, a handicap-accessible bathroom, a 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system.  Your monthly fee includes cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services.  We do trash removal and spot cleaning daily.  Moreover, if you are wondering, we are pet friendly! 

Please visit our website to view stunning photos and for more information about one of the finest assisted living facilities in Boulder.   In addition to assisted living, we have 46 secure suites devoted to the care of those suffering with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia from the onset of the disease right through to the most advance stages. 

MorningStar of Boulder represents the very best in assisted living facilities 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.

Sunday, April 26, 2020

High Blood Pressure and Dementia



A large study out of Europe found a link between older adults who take blood pressure-lowering drugs and a lower risk of developing dementia.  Medical News Today explains that while researchers are still unclear as to what causes dementia, much work is being done to improve prevention strategies.  By studying “potential risk factors that may contribute to the development of this condition,” scientists say they hope to learn more about connections between certain health conditions and higher rates of dementia. 

Another study published in the journal, Neurology, found that patients with hypertension had a higher risk of experiencing brain lesions related to dementia.  In this newest study from the University of Leipzig in Germany, the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines in France, and the Frankfurt, Germany branch of IQVIA, researchers had access to a large database that collects and stores health information on millions of people. 

Using the Disease Analyzer database, researchers looked at 12,405 people, aged 60 and older, with or without dementia.  They compared those who took antihypertensive drugs with those who had for periods of time or had never taken the drugs.  Results showed that those who took “certain antihypertensive drugs — including beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers — seemed to have a lower risk of dementia.” 

The study authors warn that antihypertensive drugs do not guarantee a person will not develop dementia.  They say rather it highlights the benefits of such drugs. 

MorningStar at Jordan, an assisted living and memory care facility, offers comprehensive care services including 24-hour care managers, medication care managers, routine Health & Wellness Evaluations, and much more.  Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s finest senior living. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional assisted living and memory care facility.


Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325393.php

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Do You Have a Calling to Serve?


Are you someone who grew up enjoying a special relationship with a grandparent or another beloved senior?  Many of us are lucky to have had the opportunity to be influenced and guided by senior roles models.  Others of us have had the privilege of forming special bonds as adults while working with or by serving our cherished seniors.   

These loving relationships remain in our hearts and minds and leave us with a warm feeling. Listen to one of our Executive Directors describe the joy of serving seniors, “The life lessons seniors have taught me over the years have been priceless, fueling my passion to return service from the heart to those who have made so much possible for us to enjoy today. The first seniors I ever loved were my grandparents, Gladstone and Violet, who inculcated in me the values of integrity, hard work and humility. The MorningStar core values are the core values of life.”

For inspiring stories of the beautiful relationships that spring up between our residents and staff members, please watch our video collection of Live Twice the Story.  These short clips illustrate the bonds that form between our “MorningStar family” and help us recognize we are not just living out our own story.  Rather we see our work at MorningStar as part of a bigger story with a magnified purpose; and recognize our reward is to hear cherished life stories and to learn from wisdom that has been gained through lives well lived.  

Presently we seek individuals with a felt calling to serve to fill a variety of open assisted living jobs in Denver’s Arvada, Centennial, Lone Tree, Parker, Wheat Ridge, and Littleton communities.  While our positions require men and women with diverse skills, education and backgrounds, all of our roles pay competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and offer numerous personal rewards! Please know that we are safely hiring new team members during the coronavirus outbreak, and once you are hired, we are taking every precaution to keep you safe at work.    


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 opportunity, visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on assisted living jobs in Denver, CO.