Aging at Home vs. Moving to a Retirement Community: How to Decide

As the golden years approach, people often start to plan for their post-retirement lifestyles. The aging process is slightly different for everyone, but luckily, there are many options available that can fit a variety of needs. 
If you or a loved one are facing aging and the post-retirement years, now is the time to consider the option of retirement homes. Here’s how you can make sound decisions regarding senior living. 

The Disadvantages of Staying at Home

Aging at home can be a tiresome process for you and your loved ones. There are many more moving parts to manage when you stay home well into your later years, such as: 

Extra Expenses

Unlike retirement homes and other senior living options, aging at home requires you to pay for every additional aspect of your care. This means hiring nurses, aids, and specialized therapists. 

These professionals must come to your home, which can quickly run up the bill for their services. Either you or your family must take on these additional expenses. 

Safety Risks

​You can’t always predict how your body will respond to the aging process. At any moment, your mobility, mental health, and physical well-being can change. 

This puts you at risk for safety hazards like falling, slipping, and accidental fires. It only takes one second for an accident to put your health at risk. When you live at home, you may not have immediate access to medical support. 

Home Maintenance and Cleaning

If you own your home, you are responsible for regular maintenance, repairs, and keeping up with cleaning. As you age, this only becomes more of a hassle. 

You can hire outside help with housekeeping, but this is an extra expense. Housekeeping costs can skyrocket when you factor in the size of your home, its current state of cleanliness, and the area that you live in. 

The Benefits of Assisted Living and Retirement Homes

After retirement, you have options. If you don’t want to maintain your living space on your own and hire an entire dedicated staff, consider senior living. 

Assisted living provides you with daily help and support in maintaining your living space. Retirement homes also usually offer housekeeping services, depending on your unique care needs. 

Moving into senior living does not mean you have failed in any way. It just means that you are seeking outside support — and saving money overall, too. 

The prices of housekeeping, dining, nursing care, and medication management are factored into the total cost of senior living. This means less budgeting and money management on your part. 

You simply enjoy the amenities and support you receive while you socialize and thrive as an aging adult. 

Choose the Right Option for You

Only you know what is best for you and your loved ones. When you start to notice that daily living has become more difficult, it may be time to consider retirement homes or assisted living facilities. 
Arm yourself with plenty of knowledge about your living options, and you will be able to make the best possible decision.

Get Ready for Spring with New Seasonal Ingredients at Your Senior Living Community

It’s beginning to near the end of winter and this means new spring dishes will become available. For seniors, the change of season is a great opportunity to try new foods and flavors and to enjoy the benefits of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This is also a great time to start focusing on eating a healthy and balanced diet. This is why MorningStar’s executive chefs offer some of the best seasonal dishes for seniors in assisted living Parker Colorado has seen.

Our trained Executive Chefs at MorningStar design seasonal menus for seniors in mind that feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also locally sourced when possible which adds to the overall taste and quality of our chef’s specialty dishes like seared salmon and the colorful kale and spinach salad.

Just as you would have done at home, our chefs prepare every meal from scratch. Executive chefs put special loved and care into every dish they prepare at MorningStar. The modern dining rooms add an extra layer of luxury and relaxation. Some communities also feature full bar service; others, bring wine and beer selections during happy hour and at meals.

If you have a specialty diet, our Chefs at MorningStar are trained and inquisitive to find how to best modify menus and recipes to accommodate changing needs and tastes. Our popular nutritional choices include low-sodium, sugar-free, no sugar added, vegetarian, and vegan. No matter your diet, we prioritize the use of ingredients known to support brain health through their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Parker Co has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living  Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Colorado. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

Find the Best Built in Companionship for Senior Living at MorningStar

As we age, maintaining social connections and staying engaged with the world around us is extremely important. However, for many seniors, this can be challenging, especially if they can no longer participate in the activities they once enjoyed. MorningStar Senior Living of Parker, Co understands the difficulty of aging and keeping friendships. To solve this issue, MorningStar offers the best assisted living options Parker  has to offer for seniors looking to create strong relationships and find their homes. With a wide variety of social activities and amenities, MorningStar is the perfect place to stay connected, make new friends, and live life to the fullest.
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There is never a dull moment at MorningStar senior living. Our community offers a full calendar of events, including fitness classes, art classes, movie nights, and social outings. Whether you're looking to stay active, explore new hobbies, or just socialize with friends, there is something for everyone in our community. In addition to our social activities, MorningStar offers a wide range of amenities so that you can live your fullest life. MorningStar offers the same things in assisted living that you would find in your neighborhood. From our beauty salon and barbershop to our library and game room, you can continue your comfortable routine and activities with a little extra help and a lot more fun.

At MorningStar, a healthy body and mind are essential for maintaining social connections and friendships. This is why we pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels like family through our dedicated caretakers and team members. Our caretakers are here to support you every step of the way, whether you need assistance with activities of daily living or just someone to talk to. We also encourage our residents to get to know one another and form their social circles, whether it's through shared interests or just spending time together.

 Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Parker Co has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing seniors more time to do the things they love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

Ways You Can Maintain and Improve Memory Function

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

One of MorningStar Senior Living’s newest communities, MorningStar at West San Jose, is expected to open in June. Our 69 assisted living suites will provide a supportive environment in which residents can maintain their independence and get back to living life to the fullest. We will offer a whole host of wellness programs and activities that enhance and support mental, physical, spiritual and social connections.  Each day residents will have the opportunity to engage the mind, body and spirit as well as find ways to learn and contribute.  

In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood will offer 34 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach includes Montessori-based therapies, which leverage the power of music, dance, and arts and crafts to connect with and nurture the individual. Please visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living at MorningStar.

MorningStar at West San Jose’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Luxury Senior Living at MorningStar of Idaho Falls

MorningStar of Idaho Falls, a senior community on the southeast side of town, has a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays.   We want prospective residents and their families to know we are here to answer all their questions, and once the decision is made to join our community, we provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition.  

Our 12 cottages and 87 suites for independent living offer seniors a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. It also provides peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself needing help with daily personal care; we can make sure you get it.   

Moreover, contrary to what many think about assisted living, it is designed to help seniors maintain their sense of independence.  By providing assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), residents can focus on living their life to the fullest.  Upon joining our community, residents have an Individualized Care Plan created for them after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their family.  

Finally, we proudly provide comprehensive memory care families trust with 28 secure suites dedicated to caring for our most tender residents.  To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained in the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care.  Our community is equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  In fact, every aspect of our memory care is designed around the needs of each resident from our physical environment, activities and programs, meals, and more.  

MorningStar of Idaho Fall’s first-class amenities start with Executive Chef inspired meals which are served all day in our beautiful full-service dining room.  We also have a theater, bistro, fitness room, and scheduled transportation.  In addition, we have a library, billiards and game room and a private dining room for intimate dinners.  Amidst our beautiful grounds we have strolling paths and raised garden beds, and our memory care residents have a secure courtyard where they too can safely enjoy the outdoors.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Idaho Falls’ foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us to learn more and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Find Trusted Senior Care for Your Partner

Deciding to move into a senior living community can be a difficult decision, especially when it comes to making that decision for a partner. However, senior living communities, such as MorningStar in Parker, Colorado, offer a variety of  benefits that can make the transition to assisted living easier than ever before through providing a comfortable and supportive environment for both partners.

One of the main benefits of senior living at MorningStar is the availability of assistance with daily tasks. As we age, it can become more difficult for our loved ones to perform certain tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and managing medications. Our trained staff can assist with these tasks, ensuring that your partner is able to maintain his independence and continue to live comfortably. This can be especially beneficial for those who may have mobility issues or require specialized care.

In addition, our community offers a variety of socialization opportunities for seniors in assisted living. As we age, it can become more difficult to leave the house and interact with others. Our community offers a variety of activities, such as exercise classes, art classes, and educational programs, so that your partner can find something that interests him and continue to enjoy his hobbies. This can help to improve the overall quality of life for both partners.

We also provide support and resources for families and caregivers. We understand that the transition to assisted living can be difficult for families and caregivers, which is why we offer counseling and support groups. These resources can help you to cope with the emotional and financial toll of caring for your loved one. This can be especially beneficial for those who may be dealing with the emotional stress of having a partner with a chronic illness.

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community to offer built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Parker Co has seen. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

Find Personalized Senior Care at MorningStar

At MorningStar Senior Living Parker, we understand that transitioning to assisted living can be a difficult and emotional process, which is why we strive to provide support and resources for our residents and their families. Our assisted living community in Parker is staffed with experienced and qualified senior care professionals who are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support for our residents through comprehensive care, socialization, and personalized support and assistance.

One of the ways we provide support is through our comprehensive care program. Our care program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each resident, and it is regularly evaluated and adjusted to ensure that our residents are receiving the appropriate level of care. We offer different levels of care, such as assisted living, memory care, and respite care, so that our residents can receive the level of support that best fits their needs.

A variety of activities and socialization opportunities are available and encouraged for our residents. These activities are designed to help our residents maintain their independence in assisted living and to continue to enjoy the things they love. We offer a wide range of activities, such as exercise classes, art classes, and educational programs, so that our residents can find something that interests them. We also provide transportation to off-site events and activities, such as outings to local museums or shows.

We also offer personalized care plans to our residents and their families. This means that we work closely with residents and their families to understand their needs and preferences, and we adjust our services accordingly. This ensures that our residents receive personalized care that is tailored to their specific needs.

Our care staff is available 24/7 to provide support and assistance to our residents. We understand that our residents may need assistance at any time, which is why we have staff on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ensures that our residents always have access to the support and assistance they need.

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

What to Expect During a Transition to Senior Living

Transitioning to any new circumstance, regardless of your age or how ready you are, can be uncomfortable. The good news is that there are many things people can do to ease the transition to senior living. 

Much of the fear and anxiety people feel when moving to a new home is due to the unknown. They don’t know what it will be like, and they generally feel out of place before they’re even in their new place.

It’s all normal, but it also doesn’t have to weigh heavily on your shoulders if you’re planning on moving to a senior living community soon. Taking away some of the unknown and replacing it with knowledge about what to expect can ease a lot of fear and concern.

What Will Senior Living Be Like?

Knowing what kinds of normal emotions you’ll likely experience can help you feel more prepared and ease the transition. Everyone deals with this kind of change differently, but there are some feelings that almost everyone has during the transition. 

No matter what you experience during your move to senior living, make sure to talk about it with loved ones, staff members, and friends to help you feel more comfortable.

Feeling Like the “New Kid”

So many people have experienced the intimidating feeling of being in a new place where everyone else already knows each other. However, one of the best things you can do to combat this intimidation is to remember that every person in your new community was once “the new kid,” too. 

Most people welcome new friends with open arms and are excited to get to know them. You’ll likely experience an overwhelming amount of lovely attention from others who want to meet you and get to know you!

Learning to Downsize

You’ll need to settle into a new space that is likely smaller than what you’re used to, and you might miss your old home. It can be difficult to let go of many belongings to downsize, but keeping one or two items from an heirloom set can ease tough feelings. 

You can also recreate your old bedroom, set up lots of photos in frames, and above all else, remember that home is a feeling, not just a space.

Learning New Routines

Many of your daily routines will stay the same, but how you go about them may change. For example, instead of going to your mailbox each morning to fetch the newspaper, it might be dropped right at your front door. 

Senior Living Is a Different Life, Not a New Life

Keep the hobbies that are most important to you, and go ahead and maintain as many routines as possible to make you comfortable. Remember that transitioning to senior living presents a new adventure that changes your life, but it’s still your life!

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 Portland, Oregon.

If You Had Chickenpox as a Child, You are at Risk for Shingles

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what is our risk of getting it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious, but you can give someone the chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a washcloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

If you are looking at senior living communities in the San Jose, CA area, we encourage you to consider the new MorningStar at West San Jose.  Opening in June, our beautiful community will be a true home where residents can comfortably and safely age in place. We have 69 suites for assisted living and 34 suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, activities and care services.  We are now leasing and offering Early Depositor Incentives. 

MorningStar at West San Jose’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/is-shingles-contagious

The Advantages of Aging Within a Community

Deciding when a loved one needs the support of a community isn’t easy; however, assisted living communities are solid options because seniors retain their independence while still receiving assistance as needed with daily activities. 

The most obvious advantage of aging within a community might be the general support that community members receive from staff members, but there are also so many more benefits.

The Benefits of Living in a Senior Community

The following are some of the biggest and best advantages that can help you and your loved one feel more comfortable about moving into a community. 

Personal Assistance with Everyday Activities

Even though residents of assisted living communities live independently, they may require some type of support from time to time. People’s needs vary as they age, and a community can meet those needs because it offers assistance with a wide spectrum of daily activities like laundry, dressing, transportation, and housekeeping.

Access to Healthcare Providers and Facilities

Assisted living communities offer on-site healthcare to a certain extent (this varies from one community to another). If your loved one requires healthcare services, they can receive that care without having to step foot outside.

Security and Safety

One of the biggest concerns caregivers have for their aging loved ones is the matter of safety. You might worry about your loved one’s ability to remain safe while driving, cooking, or even moving about the home. 

Communities designed for seniors cultivate a safe environment every day. They create a culture of safety and strive to secure access, prevent falls, monitor residents’ health, be prepared for emergencies, and more.

Activities and Social Engagement

Regular social events and activities have a profound, positive effect on seniors. These activities have been shown to boost mental and physical health and improve their overall quality of life. In addition, research shows that aging adults who have an active social life may experience slower rates of memory decline than those who do not. 

Senior communities make it easier for residents to meet new friends and engage in fun, exciting activities they enjoy, from board games to gardening and everything in between.

Better Nutrition

The meals served at assisted living facilities are specially designed for the health and nutrition of aging adults, many of whom would otherwise not have access to such nutrition if they were in their own homes. Residents also don’t eat meals alone, making every dining experience healthy and happy.

The Advantages of Senior Living Communities

Whether a single facility or a group of facilities make up a senior community, the benefits and advantages of aging within that community are limitless. Ultimately, the advantages boil down to improved mental, emotional, social, and physical health; what more could we ask for our loved ones?

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 Portland, Oregon.

Are You a Senior Who Wants to Start Exercising Again?

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, 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, a new senior living community, we will offer a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Our community offers a choice of 69 well-appointed, private assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 34 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s new community opening in June.  

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.

MorningStar at West San Jose’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

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

How to Prevent Winter Falls

Slipping on ice is no fun for anyone and often leads to some pretty ugly bruises or abrasions. While children and younger adults can bounce back from a simple slip on winter ice or snow, older adults are more likely to incur serious injuries with a slip on the ice this winter, and these simple falls could lead to permanent injuries. MorningStar’s assisted living for seniors in Parker, co offers some advice on how to be more mindful of weather conditions this year to prevent any bodily harm due to falls this winter. 

Living in states that experience winter conditions, it’s no surprise that our clothing choices must change season to season. To help eliminate falls from ice this winter, it may be helpful to be even more mindful of the clothing decisions you make. Non slip rubber soles maintain traction on slippery surfaces and can help to keep your footing when walking outside during icy conditions. 

Being extremely mindful of your surroundings is another way to help eliminate slips on ice. Survey your environment when leaving the home; make sure you notice areas that may be icier than others and try to avoid them. Try to refrain from overly snowy patches or any areas heavily shaded as ice may be less likely to melt where the sun isn’t reaching. 

In the event that a fall does occur, trust that your senior living community will be there at any emergency. MorningStar is proud to set the pace within Senior Housing with our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, a central, mobile solution for assessments, care planning, incident tracking, wound care, behavior management and eMARs (electronic medication administration records). With the heightened productivity of this point-of-care charting and clinical intelligence, we are free to devote more time to resident-centered care and activities.

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community to offer built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Parker Co has seen. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

MorningStar’s New Senior Living in San Jose

MorningStar Senior Living is proud to announce a new senior community in San Jose, CA. Located on S. De Anza Blvd, MorningStar of San Jose is close to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital, shopping, restaurants, entertainment venues and recreation opportunities.

MorningStar of San Jose is an 87,340 square-foot community designed from the ground up to promote residents’ independence with a range of care services and luxury amenities. Our 4-story building will offer 69 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. Each is equipped with a kitchenette, emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. Residents will enjoy weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen services.

MorningStar’s luxury amenities will include a bistro, salon, theater, fitness center, underground parking, and a sky terrace spanning over 10,000 square feet. A five-star, all-day dining service is available in multiple venues, including a private dining room. To enhance wellbeing, MorningStar of San Jose will offer a complement of wellness programs and activities designed to engage residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. 

As an assisted living resident, you will get the help you need for the ADLs (activities of daily living) with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication management and other services intended to improve quality of life. MorningStar’s comprehensive care starts with residents having an individualized plan created to address their specialized needs. It is frequently reviewed and updated as required. 

In addition, for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss, our Reflections Neighborhood provides the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve our most tender residents’ dignity and self-worth. Residents’ independence is encouraged through clear wayfinding and safe, inviting common areas.

We expect to open to residents in June 2023 and invite you to reserve your select suite. Also please ask us about our Early Depositor Incentives. 

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

What to Gift Your Parent in the Upcoming Holidays

Shopping for your parents during the holidays can sometimes be tough. Everyone wants to give a gift they will use but still has meaning. Seniors often don’t ask for much when it comes to gifts, so you may have to get creative when looking for the perfect gift for a parent in senior living in Portland.

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts are always a great option because you know your parents will use them. Aim to get them something you know they will use but wouldn’t necessarily purchase for themselves.

Automatic Can Opener

An automatic can opener isn’t something most people don’t think they need until they start using it. This gadget can make a big difference for your parents in assisted living and make meal preparation much easier.

Personal Assistant Speaker

Smart speakers are becoming more common in the homes of seniors. Personal assistant speakers have tons of functionality and can do things like order food, check the weather, and remind your parents of important dates.

Heated Blanket

A heated blanket is another item that seniors are unlikely to purchase for themselves. Heated blankets ensure that your senior parent is never cold when they go to bed at night.

Video Calling Device

With today’s technology, there’s no reason to stay out of touch with loved ones. A video calling device means that you’re only a button press away from seeing your parents in real time.

Personalized Gifts

There’s nothing like receiving a gift that is personalized to you. Personalized gifts can be very meaningful, even if they are not as practical as other gifts.

Digital Photo Display

Digital photo displays make viewing your most precious photos easier than ever. You can preload the display with pictures of family, friends, and adventures so that your parents can simply plug it in and enjoy. Digital displays are the easiest way for your parents to show off their favorite photos in senior living in Portland.

Photo Blanket

If your parents have a favorite photo or photos, printing them on a photo blanket can be a great option. You’ll be giving a one-of-a-kind personalized gift with a lot of personal meaning.

Engraved Item

Engraving can make an otherwise ordinary item into a very special gift. Consider engraving your parent’s name or initials on an item. Popular items for engraving include:

• Drinking glasses

• Pens

• Jewelry

• Art

• Cutlery

• Serving boards

• Photo frames

You can even take one of their existing items and have it engraved. Engraving is a simple way to make your gift more personalized.

Give a Thoughtful Gift This Holiday Season

The most important aspect of any gift is the thought that goes into it. Holidays are especially important to seniors whether your parents are living independently or in a retirement home in Portland. With a little effort, you can find the perfect gift to give this holiday season.

What Are Your Senior Living Options in Portland, OR?

For retirees looking for senior living in Portland, there are many options. A variety of communities offer varying levels of support, each one with its unique amenities and features. 

Whether you are in need of a retirement home in Portland today or you are considering your needs for the future, there are several options.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a great option for seniors who need support with everyday activities. It can provide the help seniors need when doing everyday chores or tasks becomes more difficult. Activities that staff in senior living can help with include:

• Eating

• Bathing

• Dressing

• Grooming

• Walking

• Taking medication

In addition to assistance with these daily activities, residents in assisted living also have access to great amenities, including maintenance-free living, housekeeping, and a variety of on-site social activities. 

Assisted living is also a great choice because of its flexibility when needs change. There are varying levels of care available in assisted living, which can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Independent Living

Independent living is another option for seniors seeking to move to a community. The biggest difference between assisted living and independent living is the level of care provided.

In independent living, seniors do not receive support with daily activities like in assisted living. Independent living is intended for seniors who are in good health and do not need a lot of extra assistance with daily chores and activities.

Independent living is a good option for seniors who simply want to downsize and simplify their life. Residents can enjoy a maintenance-free home, housekeeping services, and being part of a senior community. 

For many seniors, transitioning to independent living frees up a lot of their time so they can spend more time on hobbies and with family and friends.

Memory Care

Memory care is another senior living option in Portland and is a specialized type of community that caters to seniors experiencing cognitive decline and memory issues, including diagnoses of Alzheimer’s or dementia. 

Seniors with memory difficulty require special care to ensure they stay safe and can continue to experience a high quality of life. 

That’s exactly what memory care aims to provide. Staff in memory care communities receive special training to work with seniors with memory loss. They aid with daily activities but also help seniors engage in activities and therapies that may help with their memory loss.

Choosing the Right Senior Living Option 

Choosing a senior living community is a big decision. Making sure you have the right level of care is critical for your quality of life. Take your time making a choice, and thoroughly review your options. The staff at a senior living community can help you with any questions you have along the way.

Stay Social During Your Retirement Years

Retirement is a time of life that everyone looks forward to. Retirees have the time they’ve always wanted to spend on their hobbies, go on new adventures, and explore new interests. While it’s important to find independent activities as a retiree, it’s also important to get adequate social time. 

The Importance of Staying Social

Socialization is a key part of both physical and mental health. Without socialization, seniors can easily begin to experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, which lead to other negative side effects, like a lack of motivation. 

In addition to the negative mental health side effects, there are also negative side effects on physical health. Seniors who experience loneliness are at a higher risk of developing a number of conditions, including:

• High blood pressure

• Obesity

• Heart disease

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Weakened immune system

• Cognitive decline

Social interaction is an important piece of staying healthy as a senior. Even a little time every day or week with friends and family can make all the difference.

Ways to Socialize as a Senior

It can sometimes be more difficult to make friends as an adult, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. There are many ways to stay engaged in the community and make new friends as a senior.

Join a Club

Clubs are one of the easiest ways for seniors to meet new people. From book clubs to walking clubs to nature clubs, there is a club that fits every interest. You can connect with new friends who share common interests, and most clubs have set times they meet each week or month.

Volunteer

Volunteering is one of the best ways for seniors to stay social. Not only do you get to interact with other volunteers and make new friends, but you are also giving back to your community in a meaningful way. Consider volunteering by serving meals, walking dogs at a rescue organization, or picking up trash.

Connect in the Community

Another great way for seniors to stay social is simply by attending community events. If you live in assisted living, that can mean attending events in your building. If you live independently, check with your local chamber or city center to find out what events are happening near you.

Stay Social in Senior Living in Portland

Whether you live independently or in a retirement home in Portland, staying social is a critical part of maintaining overall wellness. Senior living communities have the added benefit of built-in opportunities for socialization without having to plan or travel. 

That’s why more seniors are choosing to transition to senior living earlier rather than later. It is well-documented how important socialization is for senior health, so make it a priority today.

How To Better Understand Visual Impairment and Aging

There’s a wide number of people in the U.S. that may deal with poor vision. However, most of us will not suffer from complete blindness in the future. There are, however, millions currently that live with some form of visual impairment or blindness. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are more than 2 million senior Americans ages 55 and older that suffer from low vision. Since 2012, when MorningStar of Parker first opened assisted living and memory care in Parker, they have dedicated themselves to offering residents the finest senior care within a genuine family atmosphere focused on safety and health.

Low Vision impacts senior living because it cannot be completely corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or eye surgery. Low vision in seniors can result in significant visual field loss, which includes tunnel vision and blind spots and is very serious and limiting. Vision loss in seniors can be particularly frustrating and confusing and can lead to depression or anxiety. Losing the ability to drive safely, read, watch T.V., or recognize their loved ones can cause people to feel shut off from their surroundings. Since no treatment is 100 percent effective, learning new ways to use remaining vision is vital to complete everyday tasks and maintain a high quality of life.

MorningStar defines wellness as a comprehensive, holistic strength. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment, a senior’s overall wellness is seen as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life. MorningStar is assisted living that offers visual health and creative solutions. As a partner, MorningStar offers senior living with your highest goals for whole-person wellness in mind. Our scope of clinical services is reflective of the full authority of our license through the Department of Health, extending the stay of residents even as health conditions change.

Contact us today if you want to know about the best senior living community to offer built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and modern memory care Parker Co has seen. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

Seniors at this Senior Living Community Choose to be in a Culture of Radiance

MorningStar Assisted Living fosters a community wide culture of excellence and radiance. Radiance is the brand standard of Service Excellence at MorningStar Senior Living, and it is more than a customer service program. The mantra of Radiance celebrates an attitude of selflessness that issues from a deep and sincere place, like a beam of light. For this is how we want to deliver service at MorningStar: with warmth and sincerity and depth. MorningStar creates a real home for residents within a beautiful setting. MorningStar Assisted Living and Senior Living Parker, Colorado offers the most exceptional senior community for those aged 55 and up that are looking for a senior living community with strong morals and dedication.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Parker is “to honor, to serve, to invest,” which sets this assisted living community apart from other senior living communities. MorningStar’s foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with an innate calling to serve. Radiance is thus built upon first with the team members at MorningStar. Its precepts are introduced to team members upon hiring and reiterated and strengthened every day in a daily Huddle. Every team member, regardless of role, completes three foundational one-day training as part of joining the MorningStar family. Onboarding and orientation consists of a general introduction to the various aspects of our operations and culture. For most roles, this includes three-day shadowing in which team members are introduced to the company’s culture of Radiance and Lavender Sky, our dementia care philosophy, and approach to programming. 

Contact us today if you want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and memory care Parker Co has seen. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 
To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Colorado. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

This Senior Living Community has a Unique Mission Statement

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Parker is“to honor, to serve, to invest,” which sets this assisted living community apart from other senior living communities. MorningStar’s foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with an innate calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, MorningStar Assisted Living and Senior Living Parker, Colorado offers the most exceptional senior community for those aged 55 and up that are looking for a senior living community with strong morals and dedication.

Seniors are seen as gifted and contributing individuals at MorningStar senior living in Parker, Colorado. While the company was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, MorningStar honors all faith systems and worldviews among our team members and residents. The preeminent goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, all of which contribute to creating a comfortable home and offering truly compassionate care. It is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person in which they feel seen and encouraged to grow in their faith. 

Since MorningStar’s first privileged year of service, the deep and lasting impression they want to make is this: We are a radically relational, senior loving home where residents are seen as heroes. By weaving all the threads of a better story and knowing our purpose is greater than any one of us, MorningStar is an assisted living community in Colorado that is resolved to elevate the world of business and leave a legacy of benevolence and changed lives through a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. 

Contact us today if you want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and memory care Parker Co has seen. MorningStar Senior Living Retirement Homes in Parker Colorado takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our memory care community near you. 
To learn more about MorningStar’s Senior Living in Parker, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Colorado. We encourage you to see for yourself the most exceptional and dependable memory care Parker, Colorado has to offer.

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Idaho Falls

In addition to independent living and assisted living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls has 28 suites in the Reflections Neighborhood devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.   

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help.  We consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey.  

The Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to allow our most tender residents the freedom to explore their surroundings safely and easily.  Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible.   We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  

We are staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents.  Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Thus, each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar Senior Living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar Senior Living of Idaho Falls represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we provide a true home for residents.  We invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care