Strategies Assisted Living Communities Use to Enhance Resident Safety

Ensuring the safety of residents is a top priority in assisted living communities. Various strategies are employed to create a secure environment while promoting independence and quality of life. Let’s explore some critical measures assisted living communities, including those in Idaho Falls, use to enhance resident safety.

Comprehensive Staff Training

A well-trained staff is the cornerstone of resident safety in an assisted living community. Our team members receive extensive training in emergency response, first aid, and daily care routines. This training ensures they are prepared to handle any situation, providing peace of mind for residents and their families. Regular refresher courses help keep skills sharp and knowledge up-to-date.

24/7 Monitoring and Assistance

Having round-the-clock monitoring and assistance is crucial for resident safety. In assisted living Idaho Falls communities, we employ advanced monitoring systems and have staff available 24/7 to respond to emergencies. This constant vigilance helps ensure that help is always available, no matter the time of day or night.

Secure Living Spaces

Creating a secure living environment is essential. Our communities are designed with safety in mind, featuring secure entrances, well-lit corridors, and accessible emergency exits. Regular safety checks and maintenance ensure the physical environment remains safe and hazard-free. Handrails, non-slip flooring, and easily accessible bathrooms are standard in our senior living spaces to prevent falls and injuries.

Personalized Care Plans

Every resident has unique needs, and personalized care plans help address these effectively. We develop individualized care plans that include specific safety measures tailored to each resident’s health and mobility. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to changes in a resident’s condition, ensuring continuous and appropriate care.

Emergency Preparedness Programs

Emergency preparedness is a critical aspect of resident safety. Our communities conduct regular emergency drills, including fire and evacuation drills, to ensure that residents and staff are prepared for any situation. We have detailed emergency response plans, including coordination with local emergency services to provide swift and effective responses.

Technology Integration

Incorporating technology into our safety strategies enhances overall effectiveness. We utilize emergency call systems, motion sensors, and health monitoring devices to monitor residents’ well-being. These technologies allow us to provide immediate assistance and monitor health conditions proactively. In senior living communities, this integration of technology ensures that residents receive timely care and attention.

Health and Wellness Programs

Promoting overall health and wellness is a crucial component of enhancing safety. Our health and wellness programs include regular health check-ups, fitness classes, and nutritional guidance. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle, we help residents maintain their physical and mental well-being, reducing the risk of health-related incidents.

Social Engagement and Mental Health Support

Social engagement and mental health are integral to safety. We offer a variety of social activities and mental health support services to ensure that residents remain engaged and emotionally healthy. Isolation can lead to mental health issues, which can, in turn, affect physical health and safety. By fostering a supportive and vibrant community, we help mitigate these risks.

Continuous Improvement

Safety is an ongoing priority, and we are committed to continuous improvement. We regularly review our safety protocols and seek feedback from residents and their families to identify areas for enhancement. This commitment to improvement ensures we always strive to provide the safest environment possible.

In our community, the safety and well-being of residents are paramount. By employing comprehensive strategies that include staff training, advanced monitoring, personalized care, and the integration of technology, we create a secure and supportive environment for our residents. Together, we can ensure that our elderly loved ones live safely and comfortably, enjoying their golden years to the fullest.

Benefits of Volunteerism in Battling Senior Loneliness

Volunteerism can be a powerful antidote to loneliness among seniors. Engaging in volunteer activities not only provides a sense of purpose but also fosters social connections and enhances overall well-being. Let’s talk about how volunteering can significantly benefit seniors, especially those in assisted living and senior living communities.

Creating a Sense of Purpose

One of the most profound benefits of volunteering is the sense of purpose it brings. Finding meaningful activities can be challenging for seniors, especially those who have retired. Volunteering offers an opportunity to contribute to the community and feel valued. This sense of purpose can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, providing a renewed sense of direction and fulfillment.

Building Social Connections

Volunteering often involves working with others, which naturally leads to social interactions. These interactions are crucial for seniors, as they can help build new friendships and strengthen existing ones. In assisted living Idaho Falls communities, volunteer programs can create a vibrant social environment where residents engage with each other and people outside the community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Improving Mental and Emotional Health

Engaging in volunteer work has been shown to improve mental and emotional health. Helping others releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce stress. For seniors, this can be particularly beneficial in managing feelings of depression or anxiety. Volunteering provides a distraction from personal worries and a positive focus on making a difference in the lives of others.

Staying Physically Active

Many volunteer activities involve physical movement, which can help seniors stay active. Whether organizing community events, participating in charity walks, or helping out in local gardens, these activities promote physical health. Staying active is essential for maintaining mobility and overall health, making volunteering a valuable component of a healthy lifestyle in senior living communities.

Learning New Skills

Volunteering also offers opportunities to learn new skills or hone existing ones. This continuous learning keeps the mind sharp and engaged. Whether it’s learning how to use new technology, gardening techniques, or even mentoring younger generations, these activities stimulate cognitive function and provide a sense of achievement.

Enhancing Community Involvement

Through volunteerism, seniors can stay connected to their community. This involvement can prevent the sense of disconnection that often accompanies aging. In assisted living communities, organized volunteer programs can facilitate regular community interaction, ensuring that seniors remain an integral part of the broader community.

Personal Experience

I remember when my mother started volunteering at a local animal shelter. Initially, it was just a way to pass the time, but it quickly became a significant part of her life. She formed close bonds with other volunteers and found immense joy caring for the animals. This experience alleviated her loneliness and brought a new sense of happiness and fulfillment into her life.

Providing Structure and Routine

Having a regular volunteer schedule can provide structure and routine, which is beneficial for mental health. Knowing that you have commitments and responsibilities can help seniors organize their time better and give each day a sense of purpose. This structure is conducive in retirement communities where maintaining a routine can enhance the overall living experience.

Volunteering as a Path to Longevity

Research suggests that those who volunteer tend to live longer, healthier lives. Combining physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction improves overall well-being and longevity. Volunteering can be a path to a longer, more fulfilling life for seniors.

Volunteering offers numerous benefits for seniors, from creating a sense of purpose and building social connections to improving mental and physical health. Encouraging volunteerism in assisted living and senior living communities can significantly enhance the quality of life for our elderly loved ones. Let’s embrace the spirit of giving back and watch as it transforms lives, including our own.

Living With Alzheimer’s Disease

We know a person changes in several ways when living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Memory problems and confusion are some of the most commonly known symptoms, but there are other behaviors just as common that can be unsettlingly and disruptive. The Medical News Today reports on the various behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia known as BPSDs. 

Research suggests as many as 97% of people with dementia have one or more of the following symptoms: agitation; anxiety; psychosis; depression, apathy, irritability and/or physical or verbal aggression. Agitation may include behaviors such as pacing, wandering, restlessness and fidgeting. Repetitive movements and sleep disturbances are also common. Understanding these changes and learning strategies to deal with them can result in better care for the patient and make it easier for caregivers to cope. 

Doctors are not sure why dementia patients suffer from psychosis but suggest it could be due to interruptions and changes to neurotransmitters such as dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and serotonin. Along with these interferences to brain waves, many dementia patients also suffer from poor memory and impaired visuospatial abilities, which can confuse the person as to what is real and what isn’t. 

Sleep disturbances can come in the form of hypersomnia with symptoms of reversed sleep-wake patterns and fragmented sleep. Another problem can be rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder. To help combat sleep disturbances, experts recommend limiting naps during the daytime and exposing the person to daylight (especially morning light) and getting physical exercise. 

If you are a family caregiver, it is important to reach out and get help. The Alzheimer’s Association is a good resource for both information and support as is the person’s healthcare team. 

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose provides individualized care for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Our memory care is based on our extensive knowledge and experience with dementia-related diseases and we support residents from the early onset of the disease through the final stages. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving community. 

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 San Jose.

The Importance of Advance Care Planning

An advance directive is a legal document giving you a voice involving medical decisions in the event you are incapacitated. Many people shy away from creating such documents as they fail to realize how important they are, and mistakenly worry they are signing away their lives, and/or don’t like thinking about being so ill they are unable to make decisions.    

Advance care planning documents may include a living will, power of attorney and health care proxy. By planning ahead, they guide decisions made on your behalf if you are unable, and suffer from an incurable, irreversible illness, condition or disease determined to be terminal. Living wills specify the kind of medical treatment desired and many simply express the desire to not be given life-sustaining measures that only serve to prolong a person’s death. Specific details may regard care including the use of pain medications, antibiotics, hydration, feeding and the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or ventilators. 

A health care proxy is someone designated to express your wishes for medical care and has the same rights you would in requesting or refusing treatment. A durable power of attorney document names a person to act on your behalf if you are incapacitated and gives them the power to make financial decisions. 

The Harvard Medical School reports on some of the myths people have regarding advance care directives. They say you need to realize more care is not always better but can prolong the dying process without respect for quality of life or comfort. Refusing life support does not mean you are committing suicide but rather allowing your medical problem to be the cause of your death. Moreover, refusing life-extending treatment does not mean you are refusing comfort measures for pain management and symptoms. Talk to your family and doctor about your medical preferences, and be sure each has a copy of your advance directive documents.

MorningStar at West San Jose provides all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 69 suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has 34 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar at West San Jose’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 luxury amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Moving a Parent to Assisted Living is Often a Difficult Decision

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need. 

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living community is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they need to move to a place where they will receive the proper care. 

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.  

For assisted living in San Jose, we encourage families to consider MorningStar.  We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers stylish suites in a range of floor plans to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information about luxury senior living at MorningStar at West San Jose.  

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 senior living in San Jose, CA.
Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

MorningStar Delivers Service With Warmth, Sincerity and Depth

MorningStar at West San Jose is one of MorningStar Senior Living’s 40+ communities operating or under construction across 11 states.  At our San Jose community, our mission is to provide the best assisted living and memory care possible.  To ensure we meet our standard of service excellence, each of MorningStar’s team members from caregivers to housekeepers go through our proprietary service excellence “Radiance” training.  In addition, its precepts are reiterated each day during our daily “Huddle.”  We encourage you to visit our website and view the videos “Origins of Radiance” and “Solid Gold Hearts” to learn more about this special program.

Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness, which issues from a deep and sincere place as does a beam of light, and is the framework that guides the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth.  As one team member from a MorningStar community writes, “Radiance training is absolutely phenomenal!”  She says she appreciates the fact that it helps team members to be their best at work as well as in their personal lives.  

We believe Radiance is evidence of our resolve to be a place that is not only distinguished by compassion and care, but by service professionalism as its presence and influence is felt throughout our community.  Under its teachings, residents are treated as family members, and as such, our priority is to respond to their expressed and unexpressed needs and wishes.

MorningStar at West San Jose is meticulously designed with welcoming common areas, beautiful suites and all the comforts of home.  Our community includes 69 assisted living suites, as well as 34 memory care suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us for more information about our exceptional senior living in San Jose and all the services, amenities and programs we offer residents.  

MorningStar at River Oaks’ mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 the finest assisted living and memory care in San Jose.

Many Stretching Exercises Are Suitable for Any Level of Fitness

If you are a senior who would like to get some exercise, 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 West San Jose, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Located close to Highway 85, we are convenient to medical facilities, retail centers and other services.  Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other senior living in San Jose and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.  

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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. 

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

Assisted Living Can Be a Healthier Lifestyle Than Living Alone

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities.  This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into an assisted living community.  However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to consider alternatives.   

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone.  They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others.  In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs.  Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar at West San Jose provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social wellbeing. 

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parents will have their basic needs met seamlessly.  One often overlooked benefit of assisted living is that with proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back.  Also, by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers.  

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we are committed to creating an atmosphere that promotes a healthy engaged lifestyle.  Residents have a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy precious retirement years. Our contemporary suites are available in a range of floor plans and only require furnishings and personal items to make it feel like home.  For safety, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.  Contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury senior living in San Jose.

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 senior living in San Jose, CA.

Send a “Thinking of You” Gift Basket to an Elderly Loved One

Do you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community who lives too far to visit?  How about sending something special to show your thinking of them even if it’s not their birthday or a holiday.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Do they love chocolate or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, consider including a weighted blanket in the package.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we offer a vibrant and carefree lifestyle for residents with a full range of care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our senior living community offers stylish suites for assisted living with a selection of floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the care of those suffering from memory impairment. 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 to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

The Therapeutic Impact of Pets in Assisted Living Communities

Pets play a unique role in enhancing the lives of residents within assisted living communities. In settings like assisted living Portland, senior living Portland, and retirement home Portland, the introduction of pet therapy has shown significant benefits in the mental and physical well-being of elderly residents.

Benefits of Pet Therapy

Pet therapy involves interactions between residents and trained therapy animals, typically dogs or cats, which can lead to improved emotional and social functioning. These animals provide companionship that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. For many seniors, regular interaction with pets brings joy and comfort, which are crucial for overall well-being.

Improving Mental Health

The presence of pets in senior communities has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and loneliness. Pets provide unconditional love and attention that can lift spirits and enhance mood. Regular interactions with pets encourage a routine that can help seniors maintain cognitive function and reduce feelings of isolation.

Physical Health Benefits

Engaging with pets also offers physical health benefits. Walking a dog or just caring for a pet can increase physical activity, helping to improve mobility and flexibility. Such activities can help lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and decrease overall physical pain.

Social Interaction and Engagement

Pets naturally help foster social interactions. In communities such as retirement home Portland, pets can act as social catalysts, encouraging conversations and activities among residents. Group activities involving pets can also lead to increased socialization, which is vital for mental health.

Creating a Sense of Purpose

For many seniors, taking care of a pet gives a sense of purpose and responsibility. This can be particularly empowering in a phase of life where individuals may feel less useful or independent. In assisted living Portland, residents who engage in pet care activities report feeling more engaged and valued.

Pet-Friendly Policies

To support the benefits of pet therapy, many assisted living communities, including those in senior living Portland, have developed pet-friendly policies that allow residents to bring their own pets or interact regularly with visiting therapy animals. These policies ensure that the community accommodates pets in a way that benefits all residents.

Training and Safety

Safety is paramount when integrating pets into senior communities. Therapy animals in retirement home Portland are carefully selected and trained to be around the elderly. They are typically calm, gentle, and trained to handle various interactions with seniors, ensuring a safe and positive experience for both pets and residents.

Community Activities Involving Pets

Assisted living communities often organize specific activities that include pets, such as dog walks, pet grooming sessions, or even pet birthday parties. These activities not only enhance physical activity but also add a fun and engaging element to the daily lives of residents.

The introduction of pets into assisted living communities like assisted living Portland, senior living Portland, and retirement home Portland provides numerous therapeutic benefits. From enhancing mental health to improving social interaction and physical activity, the presence of pets can significantly impact the quality of life for seniors, making their everyday experiences more enjoyable and fulfilling.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING?

MorningStar of Idaho Falls offers three types of living arrangements for residents: Independent, assisted living, and memory care. The offering of the three most common types of living environments for seniors creates a smoother transition in case a loved one needs more personal care services. When you conduct research into retirement communities in Idaho Falls, you want to determine whether each facility on your shortlist meets the needs of a loved one. However, one of the first pieces of the puzzle to solve is to understand the differences between independent and assisted living. 

As the name suggests, an independent living arrangement at our senior living center in Idaho Falls allows residents to live without much, if any support. On the other hand, assisted living residents require some type of personal care services, such as taking the shuttle provided by our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls to catch a movie or run errands.

Here are some of the specific differences that define independent and assisted living arrangements.

Cost

Assisted living facilities in Idaho Falls typically price assisted living arrangements around the rental model. This means monthly fees are a part of the total cost, such as fees for meals, nursing, and maintenance. Residents living under an independent arrangement pay an entrance fee, as well as other fees used when needed. For example, a resident living under an independent plan might not have to pay for many of the meals enjoyed by assisted living residents.

Care

Assisted living residents require more personal care services, whether the personal care is for healthcare or help getting around our senior living center in Idaho Falls. Seniors opting for independent living rarely need the same type of personal care services as the personal care services requested by assisted living residents. The assistance received by assisted living residents also includes handling common daily tasks such as cleaning and cooking.

Facility Design

Independent facilities or the independent living wings of facilities like our senior living center in Idaho Falls are spread out over larger areas because independent living residents do not need assistance to get around. They also do not have as many safety features, such as doors that automatically lock from the inside to ensure the protection of residents. Assisted living facilities also feature enhanced lighting, walking paths, and color-coded visual cues.

Activities

Both independent and assisted living residents stay busy due to the thoroughly planned activities calendar offered by retirement communities in Idaho Falls. However, assisted living residents have more events to choose from, with most of the events held onsite. On the other hand, independent living residents have the option to participate in onsite activities that are part of a monthly calendar or they can leave at any time to engage in social activities held outside of our senior living center in Idaho Falls.

Apartments

Independent living residents have much more flexibility in setting up their apartments. They do not have nearly as many amenities provided by a facility, which means they can fill up their apartment with things that help them thrive living independently. Assisted living apartments are usually smaller, as well as include more safety and security features to ensure the utmost protection.

Deciding on which type of senior lifestyle option to choose depends on many factors, which means you should take the time that you need to find the most appropriate living arrangement for a loved one. We recommend taking a tour of our senior living center in Idaho Falls to learn much more about independent and assisted living arrangements.

6 HOBBIES FOR SENIORS

How do you stay busy at a retirement community in Idaho Falls? You can participate in activities, as well as interact socially with other residents.

One of the most effective ways to stay busy is to take up a hobby. Research indicates older adults who enjoy a hobby tend to boost their mental health, as well as resist the onset of medical conditions that affect seniors such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

Let’s review six hobbies for seniors that you can enjoy at our senior living center in Idaho Fall.

Sports

Participating in organized sports is a great way to develop camaraderie with other residents, as well as improve your physical skill set. Team sports offer the opportunity for you to combat the health risks associated with common conditions such as obesity and heart disease. Some of the most popular sports for older adults include golf, squash, and swimming.

Fitness Activities

Maybe organized sports is not your thing, but that does not mean you have to live a sedentary lifestyle. You can participate in physical fitness activities that vary in workout intensity. One of the most popular types of physical activities enjoyed by the residents of our assisted living facility is yoga, which also is a great way to enhance your mental health. Other fitness activities to consider include cycling and hiking.

Gardening

There is not a more relaxing hobby for seniors than gardening. You also gain an incredible sense of accomplishment by nurturing seeds into transforming into tall plants. Gardening gives you the flexibility to grow a wide variety of plants and flowers to match your personal preferences in both design and functionality. This hobby is known for reducing stress levels in people of all ages, as well as helping you remain physically fit. Above all, you increase your self-sufficiency by growing nutritious food.

Cooking

Cooking a meal from scratch by using fresh ingredients generates a high level of accomplishment. It also represents a great way to get together with friends and family members. Although cooking is effective at ensuring you follow a healthy diet, it also can enhance your mental health both cognitively and emotionally. You can learn cooking skills on your own by reading recipes or by taking a few cooking classes held at a retirement community in Idaho Falls.

Get Musical

You do not have to read a study that extolls the mental health benefits of listening to music. However, you might be surprised at the mental health benefits enjoyed by seniors who take up the hobby of learning how to play a musical instrument. It does not matter whether you attack a drum set or tap the keys on a piano, learning how to play a musical instrument is an effective way to prevent the decline of cognitive skills.

Birdwatching

Nothing is as soothing as closing your eyes and listening to birds sing their morning songs. That is, if you do not include the sense of vision in the morning routine. Birdwatching is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors, while not having to travel far from our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls. You can watch birds with your eyes or enhance the experience by accessing a pair of binoculars. In addition, you can soak up a little beneficial vitamin D in the process.The mission “to honor, to value, to invest” remains the core value at our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls. Discover what we have to offer in Idaho Falls by scheduling a tour today of our senior living center.

Taking Medications Safely as You Age

It may surprise you to know according to the Department of Health and Human Services, fifty-five percent of seniors are non-compliant with prescription drug orders and do not take medication as prescribed by their doctors. It is a serious problem as approximately 200,000 older adults are hospitalized annually due to adverse drug reactions. 

Medical professionals say there are steps seniors and those who care for an elderly loved one can do to help lessen the problem. To start with, take medications as prescribed including the correct dosage and time, with or without food, and never crush a pill into a powder. Especially if you see multiple doctors, be sure to always bring a list and dosage of all medications you are taking including non-prescription and herbal supplements. 

Experts say using the same pharmacy can help reduce drug interactions, and to be sure to read the warnings regarding adverse reactions. Periodically review your prescriptions with your doctors to make sure you are taking the right dosage and still need the medications. To see if any meds you take have a warning for usage in the elderly, check the American Geriatric Society’s Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults. It is also recommended you properly dispose of older medications and drugs you no longer take.  

If you are on medications to treat diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to continue to test your glucose level and BP numbers. Other drugs may be prescribed with the understanding you will have your blood tested periodically and it is important to follow through as too high or too low of a dosage can cause problems.  

MorningStar at West San Jose is a beautiful senior living community offering assisted living and memory care. We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a responsive, loving staff.  Care services include medication management by a certified Med Care Manager/QMAP. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. 

Sources: seniorsafetyreviews.com/13-medication-safety-tips/ 

agingcare.com/articles/medication-problems-elderly-people-have-146111.htm

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CYCLING?

At our senior living center in Idaho Falls, residents have many recreation options to help keep their bodies strong and minds alert. One of the most popular recreational activities is cycling, which a growing number of our residents have made a part of their daily routines. Some residents cycle by themselves or in small groups, while other residents join clubs in which large groups of cyclists hit the roads and paths surrounding our retirement community in Idaho Falls. 

Cycling is a healthy lifestyle option for many reasons. Let’s review the health benefits of cycling.

Low Impact Exercise

Seniors benefit the most from performing low-impact exercises because the exercises are easier for the body to take, especially for the residents of our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls who suffer from some form of arthritis. Cycling is the ultimate low-impact exercise, as it goes easy on the joints and alleviates joint stiffness.

Reduces Body Weight

One of the primary goals of any type of exercise is to burn calories, which in turn can help you lower body weight. Cycling is one of the most effective exercises for lowering body weight because it burns calories at a rapid rate. Combined with strength training, cycling also can increase your muscle mass and metabolism rate.

Improves Balance

One of the many facts of life associated with the aging process is losing balance and coordination. Even stepping out of a bathtub can challenge the balance and coordination of a resident at our retirement community in Idaho Falls. Cycling enhances balance and coordination because of the need to keep a bike upright at all times.

Boosts Cardiovascular System

With your legs constantly in motion, cycling represents the ideal exercise for boosting the performance of the cardiovascular system. The results of a 2019 medical study demonstrated the connection between cycling and heart health. An improved heart rate and function contribute to preventing diabetes and high blood pressure. Cycling also is linked to lowering cholesterol levels.

Leg Power

Cycling strengthens leg muscles, without placing too much stress on bones and joints. The constant motion of your legs targets the glutes, quads, calves, and hamstrings. To bolster the strength of your legs even more, incorporate weightlifting exercises such as squats into your exercise routine. Maintaining leg strength as you grow older prevents the development of medical conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

Good for the Brain

Although exercising is good for the brain, certain exercises such as cycling are much more effective at boosting mental health. Focusing on the path in front of you, as well as the cadence at which you move your legs, helps you develop awareness and concentration. Cycling also is a great stress reliever and one of the best ways to improve cognitive function.

Make Cycling a Part of Your Exercise Routine

Cycling is linked to preventing the development of other diseases outside of arthritis and osteoporosis. Additional research needs to be conducted to determine whether cycling prevents some types of cancers. Until researchers discover additional health benefits, starting a cycling routine helps you stay in both mental and physical shape. Find out more about cycling and the other physical activity options available to the residents of our senior living center in Idaho Falls by scheduling a tour today.

Get the Care You Need at MorningStar’s Community in San Jose

If you or your loved one needs assisted living, we encourage you to consider one of the finest senior living communities in San Jose – MorningStar.  A look through MorningStar at West San Jose’s 360° Virtual Tour will show you our comfortable and stylish common areas and beautiful private suites.  Although we provide a range of resort style amenities and services, our outstanding feature is a care staff that is genuinely committed to working with seniors.  

Before you even move in, we will meet with you and your family to discuss a care plan that addresses your various needs.  For our assisted living residents, we offer five Care Levels.  Furthermore, as your care is managed and evaluated throughout your stay at our community, we adjust the level of care as needed.  In addition to the cost of the suite, your monthly fee is determined by your required level of care. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. This individualized care plan ensures you get the right amount of assistance as you need it.

Each of MorningStar at West San Jose’s 69 assisted living suites is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom, emergency call system, private heating and air conditioning, and basic cable TV and utilities are included.  We offer residents weekly housekeeping and laundry service as well as spot cleaning and daily trash removal.  To help residents feel right at home, we are pet friendly.

For our memory care residents, our pricing is all-inclusive, regardless of the level of care needed.  The Reflections Neighborhood offers 34 suites and is designed to encourage residents to explore their spacious surroundings easily and safely.  While a secure building, warm, inviting common areas and clear wayfinding encourage independence. MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in San Jose.

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 exceptional assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

6 TIPS FOR MANAGING ARTHRITIS

It is a medical condition that often develops as a natural part of the aging process. More than 40 million Americans live with some form of arthritis, which is an inflammatory medical condition that negatively impacts the bones and joints. Pain, swelling, and stiffness that develop can dramatically diminish the quality of your life. At our retirement community in Idaho Falls, our team of caregivers helps residents manage the symptoms of arthritis.

If you live with an arthritic condition, read about the following six tips to manage the disease for achieving a higher quality of life.

Achieve a Healthy Weight

Carrying excess weight places too much stress on the parts of the body where you suffer from painful arthritis symptoms. Losing weight alleviates the pressure placed on the vulnerable parts of your body, which in turn helps decrease the amount of pain that you feel. The most effective ways to lose weight include following the right diet and exercising on a regular basis.

Follow an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Several food sources can lower the pain caused by inflammation of the bones and joints. Food sources such as nuts, beans, fish, fruits, and vegetables contain the enzymes that help reduce inflammation. At our senior living center in Idaho Falls, we incorporate these food sources into the daily menus created for residents.

Exercise Regularly

Low-impact exercises that you perform regularly keep the joints working to prevent stiffness and swelling. You should follow a regular exercise routine that does not overwork bones and joints, such as walking, swimming, and cycling. Stretching before each workout ensures your joints move through the full range of motion.

Use Assistive Devices

Living with arthritis does not mean you have to live a sedentary lifestyle. Using an assistive device like a cane or walker makes it much easier to walk, without increasing the amount of pain that you feel. Even a shoe insert can alleviate the pain felt in both feet and ankles. You should never feel embarrassed because an assistive device improves the quality of your life.

Take Breaks

Although staying active represents an effective strategy for managing arthritis symptoms, make sure you pay attention to how your body responds to a more active lifestyle. Take a break whenever your body feels like it needs rest to rejuvenate before the next activity. After a low-impact workout, rest for around 20 minutes while applying a heating pad over the areas of the body where you feel pain.

Make the Right Lifestyle Choices

Two lifestyle choices lead to an increase in arthritis pain: Smoking and drinking alcohol. Smoking cigarettes releases toxins in the body that exacerbate arthritis pain. This lifestyle choice also increases the risk of complications if you need surgery to address pain. Drinking alcohol compromises the immune system, which can trigger higher levels of arthritic pain.

Follow Tips That Work for You

At our retirement community in Idaho Falls, our caregivers understand that residents have unique healthcare needs to manage a disease such as arthritis. This is why we encourage residents to be patient when searching for the right tips to manage arthritis pain. The mission “to honor, to value, to invest” makes our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls the premier place for seniors to call home. Discover more about the healthcare services provided by MorningStar at Observatory Park by scheduling a tour today.

Numbers That Provide a View of Heart Health

Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter published an article on the five important numbers which provide an overall view of hearth health and what the target numbers should be. While these are specific recommendations, Ms. Corliss also says the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. 

Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. 

Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 70 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL.  

Finally, the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. 

Ms. Corliss goes on to give universal advice to improve all the measures of heart health.  She states “Eating a healthy, plant-based diet can help. Regular exercise also helps; aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise like brisk walking most days. Other lifestyle habits that can lower your heart disease risk include getting seven to eight hours of sleep nightly and managing your stress level.”

MorningStar at West San Jose assisted living and memory care community provides a full range of care and hospitality services along with luxury amenities. We also offer a complement of wellness programs and activities to help residents stay engaged physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour.

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’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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. 

How to Make Assisted Living Rooms More Comfortable

While many seniors can see senior living as a new adventure and opportunity, others may feel reserved about moving into senior assisted living communities. Whether your loved one is excited or uncertain about the new move, there are a few trusted ways to make their senior living apartment feel more like home and calm any restless nerves. Moving to the best assisted living community near you in Portland is already full of the best amenities and eatery options. Now, with a little help, your new space is sure to feel like home in no time. 

MorningStar Assisted Living in Portland helps seniors and their families find the best senior living communities Portland has to offer with built-in companionship, luxury-style amenities, and budget-friendly living arrangements. Keep reading to find out how to create a relaxing and comfortable home in assisted living. 

Personalize Your Living Space

Assisted living communities that offer unfurnished living spaces are great for easily making a senior living apartment feel more like home. While there may have less space, seniors can still bring some of the furniture and precious belongings that will make their new senior living apartment in Portland feel familiar. Showcasing beloved family memories and knickknacks is a great way to personalize senior living apartments. 

Create a Calming Environment 

Calm tranquility is one thing all seniors search for in retirement. When decorating your new assisted living space, think about what things are most calming to you. Scents, colors, plants, pets, and design elements are just some of the few things to consider when you begin planning a move to senior living. There’s a lot of space to be creative when designing your assisted living apartment at MorningStar Assisted Living Portland. 

Be Part of Your Community 

Unless you are moving with a close friend or partner, you may not know anyone in your new senior living community. This can create anxiety and uncertainty about leaving your apartment. While we want you to feel comfortable in your space, enjoying the rest of the community will also help you to feel at home. Attending planned events and activities is an easy first step to getting out of your room and exploring your new community. Making friends is easy when you’re surrounded by people who like the same things you do! 

Find the Best Retirement Homes Portland, Oregon, Has to Offer

We have an unmatched commitment to the well-being of our assisted living residents at MorningStar at Laurelhurst. We offer round-the-clock support for their activities of daily living, empowering them to maintain their independence. With compassion, our care managers provide medication management and access to licensed nurses. Our retirement communities are thoughtfully crafted with luxury amenities, hospitality services, and wellness programs that nurture new interests, hobbies, and individual needs.

Contact us today at (971) 544-8100 To learn more about MorningStar at Laurelhurst and the outstanding care practices within our senior living and memory care communities. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, mission, and what sets us apart from other retirement homes in Portland, Oregon. 

A Healthy Diet Reduces the Risk of Cognitive Decline

Researchers have found evidence suggesting genetics, environment, and lifestyle can affect our risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. A poor diet is one of those lifestyle choices that causes high blood pressure and heart disease, and increases a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease. 

WebMD.com reports the MIND diet; a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets has shown promise in reducing the risk or slowing cognitive decline. They cite a study showing MIND lowered the risk of Alzheimer’s by 53% in those who follow it closely and by 35% in those who follow more loosely. They continue to say “studies show that eating certain foods and avoiding unhealthy ones can slow brain aging by 7.5 years.”

To adhere to the diet, weekly meals should include food from the following groups: green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. They say a good way to start is with a daily salad, one other vegetable, and three servings of whole grains every day. In terms of vegetables, collard greens, kale, and spinach have been found to be especially healthy. 

Poultry should be eaten once a week, fish twice a week and beans every other day. Nuts and berries make good snacks, blueberries and strawberries being some of the best. Olive oil not only adds a great taste to foods but has been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia. 

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we offer assisted living residents a healthy, vibrant lifestyle with stylish suites, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our five-star dining experience features seasonal menus with the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible. 

Meals at MorningStar include a variety of nutritional choices to allow residents to self-manage dietary habits and restrictions and include low sodium, gluten free, sugar free, no sugar added and low-fat options.  Our chef also uses 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 berries, Omega 3 fats, nuts and leafy greens.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in San Jose, CA.

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 memory care in San Jose, CA.

How Prices are Structured at MorningStar at West San Jose

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we regularly have questions about our community from area seniors and their family members.  FAQs include how our pricing is structured as well as availability.  In assisted living, fees are based on the level of care a resident requires.  For memory care residents, we offer all-inclusive pricing, which means suite rental and care, whatever the level of need, is one price.  

To calculate your level of need in assisted living, you and your family will meet with our Wellness Director and go over your medical history and personal preferences to create an individualized care plan.  This sets the basis of your Care Level (we have five) and your monthly fee accounts for the costs and time to provide the needed services.  These can include help with daily personal care activities (grooming, bathing, toileting, etc.) and medical assistance. 

If you are concerned the cost of assisted living may be too high for your means, we want to remind you that senior housing can be very cost-effective as there are many things you will no longer pay for out-of-pocket.  This includes the costs of your monthly utilities.  At MorningStar your monthly fee includes cable TV & utilities, housekeeping, and three daily meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef.  In addition, we have scheduled transportation every week for rides to medical appointments as well as transportation to organized activities and cultural events.  

Assisted living residents also have access to a full-time licensed nurse and our 24-hour care staff.  Our wellness programs and activities engage and support our residents’ mental, physical, spiritual and social needs for a healthier, fuller life.

MorningStar West San Jose’s mission is to provide the best senior living in San Jose, and the comfort and wellbeing of our residents are the foremost considerations for everything we do.  Our dedicated team, the heartbeat of our community, delivers service that represents the mission and philosophy of MorningStar Senior Living – honoring God and valuing seniors as gifted and contributing individuals. Please visit our website for more information.
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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 for more information about the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.