The Facts About Parkinson’s Disease

 

We often come to think something is true if we hear it stated as if it is a fact. Doctors say this happens in medicine more frequently than we realize. One such disease with lots of misinformation surrounding it is Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder affecting predominantly dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. Symptoms develop slowly over years and may include tremors (mainly at rest); bradykinesia (slowness of movement); limb rigidity; and gait and balance problems. 

One common misconception regarding PD is it only affects a person’s movement. Doctors explain this is untrue as symptoms can also include: cognitive impairment or dementia, depression and anxiety, sleep dysfunction, pain, apathy, sexual dysfunction, and bowel incontinence. Another thing many people believe is levodopa, one of the most effective treatments for PD, is only effective for a certain amount of time. However, experts say it is not the drug that becomes less potent but the fact that the “key enzyme that converts levodopa to dopamine (aromatic acid decarboxylase or AADC) is predominantly found in the dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra, which are lost during progression of the disease.” 

People should know tremors are not always a symptom of Parkinson’s disease, and that some people with PD never get them. In terms of the trajectory of the disease, it varies with individuals. Also, research suggests staying physically active can slow progression and reduce symptoms. 

Although the cause of the disease is not known nor is there a cure for it, there are treatments used to improve symptoms and allow people to have a good quality of life. While current therapies don’t slow or stop PD, researchers are working to identify biomarkers to enable earlier detection and hope to find better treatments. 

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 at RidgeGate proudly provides the very best in independent living, assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about our exceptional community in Lone Tree, CO.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-parkinsons-disease

Promote Brain Health with Challenging Activities

Research indicates we may be able to promote brain health by engaging in challenging cognitive activities like learning a new skill at an older age. The University of Texas studied the benefits for older adults who pursued cognitively engaging activities later in life. 

The study consisted of 221 participants ranging in ages from 60 to 90, with an average age of 72 to try and determine what type of activities offered the greatest benefit to aging brains. Participants were divided into 6 groups with three taking part in what researchers labeled “productive cognitive engagement” involving active learning. Activities included learning photography and how to edit photos on the computer, quilting on a computer-driven sewing machine or doing both photography and quilting. 

Two other groups were assigned to what researchers referred to as the ‘receptive engagement conditions,’ and neither involved learning new things or engaging in unfamiliar intellectual activities. Rather people were put into a social club where they mainly did familiar activities or were asked to read informative material and watch documentaries. All performed their tasks for 15 hours per week for 14 weeks. The sixth group was the control group and did not change their activity patterns.

Researchers compared participants at the end of the study and found those who did productive cognitive engagement had significantly more improvement in episodic memory. They explain episodic memory is our memory of past events and has been found to be the type of memory most impacted by aging. The study suggests “memory improvement need not come from brain games or memory drills, but can also come from learning a challenging new skill.”

At MorningStar of Boulder, our stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations.  Amenities include Executive Chef-inspired meals, restaurant-style dining, fitness room, salon, library, all-season porches, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually engaged. For more information on the finest assisted living in Boulder, CO, please visit our website. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “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 true home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the best assisted living Boulder, CO has to offer.

Source: matherinstitute.com/2015/06/29/late-life-learning-what-are-the-brain-benefits/

Are You Considering a Senior Living Community?

 

Unlike years ago, when elderly people wanted to live in their own homes for as long as possible, many of today’s seniors see a real advantage to senior housing and love the idea of a more active community life. In fact, studies indicate community living provides a higher quality of life for many seniors and may contribute to a longer life and better physical and emotional health than those who remain in their own homes. 

Experts say this may be due to the fact senior living offers a less stressful, carefree environment in which seniors no longer have the responsibilities and unexpected expenses of home repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a retirement community is built around the needs of its residents as it is designed to be safely navigable for older folks as well as offers the benefit of others being around in case the need arises such as in the event of a fall. 

Another reason a senior living community such as MorningStar at RidgeGate enhances quality of life for residents is the five-star dining experience for better nutritional health. Additionally, wellness programs, social activities and special events mean there is something to look forward to each day. Whether taking a yoga class, playing a challenging game of trivia, relaxing with friends on the patio or sharing a drink during happy hour, you will be engaged, stimulated and have a sense of purpose.   

MorningStar at RidgeGate strives to be the best independent and assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO and the surrounding area has to offer, and we take the well-being of our residents very seriously.  Our all-inclusive community offers all of the amenities, services and enrichment programs to give you the best retirement years possible. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, we have 29 secure suites devoted entirely to highly individualized, specialized care. Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar at RidgeGate offers the very best in senior housing with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  Please schedule a visit to see the finest independent and assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO and the surrounding area offers.

Compassionate, Individualized Memory Care in Centennial, CO

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan offers 29 secure suites in a range of floor plans for the comprehensive care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our home is honored to provide compassionate, individualized care for residents from the earliest stages of the disease to the most advanced. 

The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents.  As such, it means we can encourage and support independence as much as possible and let residents move freely about their environment including enclosed courtyards and strolling paths.  In fact, every aspect of our community from the physical design to a range of purposeful activities, food service, security and more offers residents a comfortable, stress-free lifestyle.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care involves treating each of our residents with the respect and dignity they deserve.  Even before a resident joins our community, we meet with them and their family to find out as much as we can about their background and interests as well as personal preferences.  From there, we create an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration.

Most importantly we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts who recognize it is a privilege to serve seniors. They enjoy listening to life stories, view family photos and make sure each one feels loved, safe, and respected. All team members, regardless of position, receive training in Radiance, which is much more than a customer service program. It is how we build a culture of consistency, authenticity and genuine concern for the needs of others and guides the way we dispense service – with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.   

If a parent, spouse or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the MorningStar at Jordan team is here to help. Our loving care is designed to meet their social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. Please visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar at Jordan’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

MorningStar at Jordan Offers Assisted Living in Centennial, CO

 

Today’s assisted living is not just another term for a nursing home, which is intended for people who require skilled, around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Rather assisted living, the most popular and fastest growing long-term care option for older adults in the U.S., is designed for seniors who cannot get the help they need or afford while living at home or in an independent living community. The first community in the U.S. opened in the late 1980s. The concept quickly took hold out of consumers’ distaste for nursing homes and the desire for something offering the services, safety and amenities seniors required while still supporting and encouraging their independence.  

Assisted living recognizes seniors as productive, contributing individuals who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities offer private suites and most are equipped with kitchens for the meals residents wish to cook. At communities such as MorningStar at Jordan, meals and transportation are provided, and residents can get help with activities of daily living including bathing, grooming, dressing, transferring, toileting, etc.  Residents feel comforted having the security and safety of 24-hour support, and families’ rest easy knowing that a trained, caring staff is available to help whenever their loved one needs it. 

Residents of MorningStar appreciate the ease of built-in social connections and predictable budgeting as well as activities designed to engage them physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Amenities include a bistro, general store, fitness center, library, salon and much more. Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day.

At MorningStar at Jordan, our goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in Centennial, CO, and we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.  If you need a good place to recover from an illness or would like to see if we are a good fit, we offer short-term stays and respite care. Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar at Jordan’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

A True Home at MorningStar of Boulder

MorningStar of Boulder is part of a company founded on authenticity, and a reputation for excellence. Setting our home apart from other assisted living communities is the fact we understand the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon this truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Additionally, we have an extraordinary team who feel privilege to serve and help create an environment where life is enriched, stories are shared, and lives are cherished. 

Our beautiful community has 48 private assisted living suites and another 46 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  In assisted living, residents receive various levels of support with the activities of daily living, based on a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their extended family. Care includes around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure residents’ safety and wellbeing as they work to meet expressed (and even unexpressed) needs. 

MorningStar’s memory care uses a holistic approach, which is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Under a Lavender Sky, our ambition is to thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore as we find ways to daily celebrate life regardless of the extent of memory loss. Moreover, we understand the essence of the person remains and treat each with the utmost respect and dignity as we walk alongside the individual and their family throughout this difficult journey. 

To learn more about our loving community, we encourage you to visit our website. You will find extensive information such as floorplans and a list of our hospitality and care services, amenities and philosophy. For a quick response, use our Virtual Assistant to inquiry about availability, pricing and/or to set up a tour. We look forward to hearing from you. 

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our principles are based on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Committed to creating a true home for our residents amidst a beautiful, tranquil setting, we invite you to set up a visit to experience one of Boulder’s finest assisted living communities. 

It is Common for Those with Dementia to Wander

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander.  The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home.  Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.  

Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering.  Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.  

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one.  Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times.  Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.  

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and try to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out.  In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out.  You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.   

MorningStar at Jordan offers memory care in a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including enclosed courtyards and strolling paths. In addition, our dedicated staff is trained to keep residents engaged and safe. Please visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving memory care in Centennial, CO.

MorningStar at Jordan provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living in Centennial, CO.

Sources:

alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering 

agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm