MorningStar Assisted Living Blog

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

October 24, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

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.

October 24, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, Retirement Home, memory care
Senior Living

Tips to Seniors Reentering the Dating Game

October 24, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Memory Care

Life can throw us some unexpected curves along the way, and for a variety of reasons we may find ourselves once again in the dating game as a senior. Thankful lots of experts weigh-in with tips to help older adults through the “new and perhaps somewhat painful” experience.  

One of the first suggestions is to make sure you are prepared to get back in the game. This includes being totally over your last love and ready to emotionally embark on a new relationship. Make sure you have put the past to rest and are not harboring bitter feelings about your last love. 

Another suggestion is to remember the first step is the hardest. For example, if this is the first time you have tried online dating, consider it an opportunity to connect with people you most likely would never have met. To improve the dating pool, you might want to try a site designed for people 50 years and older, who are divorced, widowed or single. 

AARP recently published an article regarding things to expect if you are getting together in-person for the first time since meeting online or through a friend. One tip is to remember even though it is not the first time you have ever gone out on a date, it is the first time in a number of years and it’s normal to feel nervous. They advise to try to stay in the moment, be open and honest, and be a good listener. 

The article suggests you should trust your instincts and also be patient. Just like when we were younger, some dates never went any further than the first one and it may take several tries to find someone compatible. Don’t overshare every detail regarding past relationships or your life; but try to keep it light. Another thing, don’t go looking for Mr. or Ms Perfect. Remember you have your own flaws.          

MorningStar at Laurelhurst assisted living and memory care community provides a full range of senior care and hospitality services and luxury amenities. We also offer a complement of wellness programs and activities to help residents stay engaged physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially. Contact us to learn more about the newest senior living Portland offers and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We open to residents in the first quarter of 2023. 

Source: 

aarp.org/home-family/dating/info-01-2013/how-to-act-first-date-solin.html

October 24, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, memory care, senior living
Memory Care

This Senior Living Community has a Unique Mission Statement

October 21, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

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.

October 21, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, memory care, retirement facilities
Senior Living

Learn More About Advance Care Directives

October 21, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

An advanced 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.

If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls may be your answer. We offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful home has suites in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate care to those with memory impairment.  Please see our website for more information about our exceptional community.


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 independent living, memory care and assisted living in Idaho Falls.

October 21, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Independent Living, memory care
Assisted Living

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Idaho Falls

October 19, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

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

October 19, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
Dementia Care, senior living, Independent Living, memory care, assisted living
Senior Living

Independent Living vs Assisted Living

October 17, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Independent Living

Have you been thinking it’s time for a change in your living arrangements and would love a more manageable, relaxed lifestyle?  If you have started looking into senior living options in Idaho Falls your next question may be “what is the difference between independent living and assisted living, and which one is best suited to my needs?”  

Independent living is ideal for active seniors who no longer wish to maintain their own home and desire a more carefree lifestyle.  While each community can vary, many offer amenities such as social activities, wellness programs, day trips and meals.  It is also perfect for those who love the sound of predictable budgeting, community living and built-in companionship.  Care services are not provided but being a resident in an independent community may give you priority for a move into assisted living or memory care, if the need should arise.

Assisted living is designed for seniors who need help with everyday activities in order to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.  Communities will have an array of services such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, daily meals, and 24-hour care.  Generally, a community assesses in-coming residents to determine the level of assistance needed that is agreeable to the senior and their extended family.  Other amenities offered by assisted living communities may include a range of activities and wellness programs.   

At MorningStar of Idaho Falls, you will discover senior living at it’s best.  Our community is designed to enhance the lives of our residents and provide a home where seniors can safely, and comfortably age in place.  Along with inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Our stylish cottages and suites come in a variety of one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans, and we are pet friendly. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

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.

October 17, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Independent Living, memory care
Independent Living

Now is the Time to Get to Know Your Parent Better

September 26, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

As an adult child of an elderly parent, have you ever really taken the time to get to know them as an individual? Often we just accept a continuation of the relationship we had with them as teenagers or young adults yearning to leave the nest.

Before it is too late, you should take time to really know who your parents are and what their dreams and aspirations have been, what they look forward to, and what they wish their legacy to be. A senior’s legacy is the most valuable asset they can pass down to others and is the synthesized essence of what they have learned and hold most dear. 

During this retrospective phase of life, it is the person’s time to review major events, losses, mistakes and discoveries they experienced. Part of the process includes repeating stories and extracting the values and themes they want to be remembered by future generations. Acting as a parent’s legacy coach, adult children can help a parent through the life-review process as no one else can. Your long-established trust fosters a relaxed setting to which your parents can safely and slowly explore the past. 

To aid the process along, there are questions you can ask such as: what was your life like before a certain time or event; or tell me about… If a topic comes up, ask why they are thinking about it. Start conversations by asking what led to a specific decision or what made it so important. Ask how their life was different from their parents. Ask how your parents define the meaning of life; and how they want to be remembered. 

By going through this discovery process, it is sure to open up a new phase in your relationship with your parents. You will not only gain a new understanding of who they are; but as you help them look back, you free them to move forward. 

Looking for the finest assisted living Portland offers? The new MorningStar at Laurelhurst assisted living and memory care community is it. Uniquely located in the historic Laurelhurst District, we offer 83 assisted living suites and 32 memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We open to residents in winter 2023 and invite you to visit our website to reserve your select suite today. Please ask about savings for early depositors. 

September 26, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, memory care, senior living
Assisted Living

Dealing with the Loss of a Loved One

September 23, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Retirement Home

Death is part of life and if we are fortunate to live a long one, most likely we will have to deal with the loss of a beloved spouse, life partner, child, sibling or friend. As loved ones give our lives purpose, coping with their loss and finding new purpose is difficult as many seniors do not have the opportunities to socialize or get out as they once did. 

Grief counselors suggest some things a person’s family and friends can do to help them get through the worst of the grief. If it was your parents who died, be sure to let your surviving parents know how much you miss dad or mom, and share memories you have of the good times. Ask your parents if they have more difficult times during the day dealing with the loss as you could offer to come over or give them a call. Also be sure to not shy away from saying the deceased person’s name.   

Offer to do things with them you know they once did with their spouse such as grocery shopping. If dad did the yard work, either offer to do it or help mom hire a company to take care of it. Help your parents find outlets for socializing, and encourage them to pick up an old hobby or find a new one, or take a class. 

Being part of a senior living community such as Portland’s MorningStar at Laurelhurst, can be very supportive and give the person a sense of belonging. Other residents most likely have gone through similar experiences and have a special understanding of what the person is going through. 

MorningStar at Laurelhurst’s assisted living and memory care is designed to provide seniors everything they want and need in a retirement home. Along with impressive architectural design elements, an array of luxury amenities, hospitality services and 5-star dining; we offer Personalized Service Plans for the activities of daily living (ADLs) to help maintain residents’ independence. We open to residents in winter of 2023 and encourage you to contact us today to reserve your select suite and learn about exclusive savings for early depositors at the finest senior living Portland offers. 

September 23, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
Retirement Home, senior living community, assisted living
Retirement Home

Make Sure Your Elderly Loved Ones are Equipped to Avoid Scams

September 21, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

A newly released FBI 2021 Elder Fraud Report, found cybercrimes were up 62% from 2020, resulting in reported losses of almost $3 billion. The FBI says most likely the loss was even higher as many victims are reluctant to report such crimes. The Federal Trade Commission supports this with statistics showing 44% of younger people in their 20's reported losing money to fraud but only 20% of those in their 70's did so.

Experts say the increase in fraud is partly due to the increase in digital financial transactions and seniors’ lack of sophistication with technology. The pandemic and seniors’ isolation also played a part as did the variety of methods and schemes utilized. The elderly are scammed in a number of ways including phishing through phone calls, emails, social media messages and fraudulent shopping schemes.  

“Grandparent schemes” often involve texts sent supposedly from a relative requesting money be wired to help with a medical emergency or another event requiring immediate attention. The fraudsters obtain the names of family members from Facebook and other social media to prey upon their emotions. 

To help elderly relatives protect themselves, experts recommend helping them set their social media accounts to private and reminding them to limit the amount of information they share online. Tell them to be wary about any request for money in texts or emails regardless of who they appear to be from. If they question whether a text is really from a family member, block it and call the person instead. 

To deter fraud, use strong passwords or fingerprints, and two- factor authentication. When purchasing online, check to see if it is a secure network. You should see a padlock in the front of the address bar usually followed by “https.”  Avoid Wi-Fi hot spots and use a VPN service to block your identity. 

MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a new retirement community in Portland offering assisted living and memory care. Along with a choice of private suites, we offer senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Contact us to reserve your select suite and ask about our Founders Club Specials for savings for early depositors. We open to residents in the winter of 2023. 

Source: usatoday.com/story/tech/2022/09/18/cybercrime-cost-american-seniors-3-billion-last-year-62-jump/10420029002/ 

September 21, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
memory care, retirement community, assisted living
Assisted Living

Family Activities to do with Seniors

September 16, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in retirement communities

Nothing feels better than spending time with people you love. Often, our family members are the people we feel the closest to and most loved by. Upon moving into senior or assisted living, our elderly family members need time to readjust to not being around their family or friends as often as they were once used to. That feeling of loneliness towards their families disappears, and never really goes away. Taking the time to get your family involved with your loved one in senior living greatly improves a senior’s day. It gives them something to look forward to and to think of fondly after you have left. If you are planning a trip to visit your loved one in senior living, consider these fun activities to participate in as a family. 

Seniors in retirement living or assisted living may not be able to get out into the world as often or as easily as before. Perhaps bring some of the worlds into their home instead. Bringing a new movie to watch together as a family is a great way to spend some quality time all together and to get your loved one excited. It might have been a while since they have gone to a movie theater so bringing snacks and their favorite beverage can also help them feel more included and considered. 

Bringing board games is a simple way to keep kids entertained for long periods and to bond with the whole family. Ideally, the game is relatively simple with few instructions or confusing rules. If your loved one in senior living has a favorite game, they will probably enjoy playing that specific game the most as it will feel familiar and safe to them. They can also teach your family to play which builds unique memories. 

If your loved one is particularly crafty, researching simple DIY projects is another great way to get the whole family involved in a day of fun and relaxation. Working with our hands keeps our minds busy and calm. If your loved one has been voicing the need for some quality time, a group art project may be the way to go! 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement communities and senior living options in Parker, Colorado. Our staff is 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 senior living facilities in Colorado.  

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

September 16, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, Retirement Communities, retirement living, assisted living
retirement communities

Relationships Come First at MorningStar

September 14, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

The community you pick to live out your retirement years should have deeply held values that cater to the comfort and safety of their residents. A senior living facility that you can call your home should also feel like one, with an emphasis on relationships, empathy, and encouragement. If you have made the decision to move into senior living or assisted living, taking the time to thoroughly research your possible community will illuminate the standards and level of care they will be able to offer.  

A senior living facility should hold the same morals and values that you support. Feeling like you belong within your living arrangements is the best way to know that you have made the right choice in terms of retirement facilities. MorningStar Senior Living is a company founded on Judeo-Christian tradition. However, they honor all faith systems and worldviews among our team members and residents. MorningStar believes it is the preeminent goal of senior living to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.

MorningStar is a name deeply rooted. Ken Jaeger, Founder, and CEO of MorningStar Senior Living believed in senior care that was defined by the human touch. He looked towards his familiar roots and wanted to recreate his grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family. Ken developed a 3 pillar mission to keep MorningStar grounded in empathy and trust. In these 3 pillars, caregivers, and team members of MorningStar abide by the commitment to retain strong moral values and ethics. The community commits to creating an environment that promotes healthy, engaging lifestyles while providing up-to-date security and encouraging independence. 

As an entity, MorningStar’s final pillar commits to hiring and retaining employees that are creative, selfless, and compassionate. Since its first year of service, MorningStar developed a deep and lasting impression on its community. They are a radically relational, senior-living home where residents are seen as heroes. MorningStar sees its worth as more than just a business. As a senior living facility for people aged 55 and up, Morningstar vows to create a legacy of benevolence that changes lives.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar Parker “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting. Contact us today to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Parker, Colorado.

September 14, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior living, retirement facilities
Assisted Living

Retirement is the Time to Start Something New

September 14, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in retirement communities

If you are retired, you probably have more time on your hands so why not try something new or something you have always wanted to do. This should include adding a physical activity to your daily routine as studies find many adults 65 years and older spend up to 10 hours a day sitting or lying down. Some of the best exercises for seniors are Nordic walking, swimming, golf, tai chi, and yoga. Experts say focus on improving your strength, balance and flexibility and check with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise routine.  

In addition, you may want to include activities or hobbies that bring you into social contact with others. This can be done by taking a class online or in person. Suggestions include joining a book club, learning to play an instrument or taking an art or photography class. 

Retirement means more time to learn how to cook or to be more adventurous in the types of food you prepare. It can be lots of fun and help you eat healthier and save money. Take the challenge by learning to cook foods from around the world, and then share the fruits of your labor by inviting family or friends over.  

Birdwatching is a hobby that ties in several objectives. You get out into nature, which has been shown to lower anxiety; learn something new, and get physically active. Moreover, if you join a birdwatching club, you get to meet people who enjoy the same things you do. For anyone wanting to improve their photography skills, shooting pictures of birds is a good way to do it; and the hobby offers a great activity to do while traveling.  

Other enjoyable hobbies, which can help seniors cognitively, include putting together challenging traditional jigsaw puzzles or 3-D ones. Crossword and Sudoku puzzles, trivia games, chess and other brain games are also mentally challenging. Another hobby becoming more popular with seniors is online gaming that can improve memory and enhance cognitive skills. 

If you are looking for exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, MorningStar of Idaho Falls may be your answer. Our beautiful home is designed to provide seniors with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Along with inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information about retirement communities.

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.

September 14, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
Independent Living, Retirement Communities, memory care
retirement communities

Certain Foods May Help Forgetfulness Many Seniors Experience

September 12, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Memory Care

Research shows flavonoids, the chemicals that provide plant foods their bright colors, may help in the fight against forgetfulness and mild confusion many seniors experience. The evidence comes from two long-term continuing health studies from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Participants were periodically surveyed regarding their diet and state of their health including memory problems over a 20 year period. Data was extracted from over 100,000 men and women with an average age of 73.  

The study’s lead author, Dr. Deborah Blacker, a professor of epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, said they focused on participants’ consummation of two dozen common types of flavonoids. These included carrots (high in beta carotene), strawberries (containing flavone) and apples (containing anthocyanin). Results suggest those who answered “yes” to having memory problems also reported eating a lower amount of flavonoid-enriched foods.  

Researchers found a significant difference between the bottom one-fifth of participants who reported the lowest intake of flavonoids compared to the upper one-fifth who were 19 percent less likely to report forgetfulness or confusion. Additionally, the study reported “higher intakes of Brussel sprouts, strawberries, winter squash and raw spinach were most highly associated with better scores on the test of subjective cognitive decline.” Dr. Thomas M. Holland, a researcher at the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging who was not involved in the study, said “There’s some really good data here with 20 years of follow-up.”

MorningStar of Idaho Falls is a senior living community committed to making your retirement years carefree. Along with resort-style amenities and hospitality and care services, we offer residents a five-star dining experience enriched with a variety of healthy, fresh foods. Our beautiful cottages and suites range in size with one-bedroom and two-bedroom options.  Suites feature maple shaker cabinets, 9-foot ceilings and large windows.  In addition, residents of the cottages enjoy a fireplace and one-car garage. For exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place.

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 our exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Idaho Falls.

Source: nytimes.com/2021/08/09/well/brain-health-fruits-vegetables.html  

September 12, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
Independent Living, senior living, memory care
Memory Care

Looking for Assisted Living in Idaho Falls?

September 09, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

Once mom or dad has made the decision to move to an assisted living community, you will want it to go as smoothly as possible and this includes helping them choose the right place to meet today’s needs as well as the next 5 to 10 years. In some cases, a move to an assisted living community is precipitated by a worsening medical condition or an injury due to a fall and the time to mentally prepare oneself is short. This is why MorningStar of Idaho Falls has a guide to help families navigate through such a momentous change in a senior’s life.  

Googling senior living in Idaho Falls will bring up quite a few hits so experts recommend narrowing down the candidates to 3 or 4 communities that offer assisted living. Start with reading reviews from families and residents’ themselves to see what they say about the place, and then consider location, price and amenities. 

Touring a community is a real eye-opener and the Internet offers many tips on what to look for during your visit. At MorningStar, our online virtual assistant allows you to inquire about pricing and availability as well as set up a tour. We recommend setting aside a couple of hours for a tour and to get ready for a lot of details. Take notes and bring any questions you would like to ask. Focus on the overall ambiance, and take a look at our Monthly Expense Comparison and Senior Communities Comparison Chart beforehand to weigh value against cost. We also advise revisiting your top one or two choices, and remember many seniors find a trial stay; we offer them for up to a full month, is a good way to find out if it is the right community.

MorningStar of Idaho Falls offers comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our assisted living suites are available in a selection of floor plans and offer a broad range of amenities and services to meet your every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service. Visit our website to learn what sets our community apart from other senior living communities and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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.

September 09, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior living, Independent Living
Assisted Living

It Might be Time to Move a Parent to Assisted Living if You Notice These Signs

August 31, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

To keep it simple, it’s time to consider moving to Assisted Living when the transition will ease the stress of either the senior’s life or the caregiver’s life. Assisted Living is the best choice if your parent or spouse needs more personal care than they can currently get (or afford) in the home or in an Independent Living community. If your loved one has been struggling with any of these following activities, it’s probably time to discuss transitioning to an assisted living facility. 

Accidents such as falls, bruises, and shallow cuts are common in old age and may not necessarily be cause for alarm. However, if your loved one is experiencing falls more frequently or needing medical attention due to deep cuts or other accidents, they may need closer supervision or new living arrangements to help manage their safety. Perhaps their current home isn’t equipped for them to get safely about in the home. 

How are your loved one’s eating habits? If you’ve noticed a drastic change in their body weight in a short amount of time, it may be necessary to oversee their mealtimes. You should check your loved one’s fridge and cupboard often to check for spoiled food. If you notice a lack of food altogether, they may be having a hard time getting to the grocery store on their own or may be forgetting to eat. Malnutrition is a serious cause to schedule a check in with a doctor and then consider other living arrangements to make sure your loved one is eating. 

If you notice daily chores not being completed or a sudden change in personal hygiene, you may want to check in with your loved one and inquire about the sudden changes. Seniors often need extra help completing tasks with age. Retirement and assisted living communities offer care options that are wider than ever before in history. MorningStar Senior Living of Parker offers Assisted Living with support at various levels of daily living. Around-the-clock Care Managers are on site and at the ready to ensure your comfort and safety as they meet your expressed (and unexpressed) needs. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living and senior living in Parker, Colorado. Our staff is 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 senior living facilities in Colorado.  

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

August 31, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Independent Living, senior living
Assisted Living

CEO of MorningStar Discusses His Commitment to Religiously Based Senior Care

August 26, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

“I had a dream to start a senior housing company that was defined by the human touch. I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” 

MorningStar’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, has had 15 years of executive leadership experience and thoughtful observation of the senior housing industry. Jaeger’s dream senior housing community focuses on the power of relationships. Jaeger designed a three-pillared mission upon which MorningStar remains grounded. Set to open in December 2022, MorningStar at Laurelhurst Retirement Home and Assisted Living community in Portland, Oregon, is built to reflect these pillars for which Ken Jaeger established his bold brand of senior living rooted in Judeo-Christian principles.

MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a retirement community with a strong commitment to moral values and ethics. Within Ken Jaeger's three-pillar mission, MorningStar’s business practices focus on honoring God within their care and relationships. We emphasize the value of all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and we invest in our team's ability to serve well. We commit to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle while providing security and independence. We retain employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents with the best senior care. 

Since our first privileged year of service, the deep and lasting impression we 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, by knowing our purpose is greater than any one of us, MorningStar is resolved to elevate the world of business and leave a legacy of benevolence and changed lives.

Contact us to earn more about MorningStar’s values and ethics within assisted living in Portland. Our staff is 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 senior living facilities in Portland.  

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

August 26, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior living, senior housing
Senior Living

Medication Management in Assisted Living Facilities is Life-Saving

August 24, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Retirement Home

If your elderly parent or loved one is taking several medications, healthcare providers say it is a good idea to check their medication management. It’s not uncommon for adults 55 and over to take multiple medications, vitamins, and supplements to manage a wide array of symptoms and health conditions. However, the more pills seniors take, the greater the risk for medication mix-ups. Medication management in senior living is an important preventive measure to avoid serious health hazards for seniors that could even be fatal. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, report approximately 350,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse, or harmful drug events. Doctors acknowledge it can be confusing for seniors to keep track of the daily dosages of their medications. Remembering special instructions for drugs, such as to take with or without food or at a specific time of day, can also be hard for seniors to keep up with. If a senior struggles with memory loss or Alzheimer's, the risk of improper medication consumption increases. 

An elder may not be organized with their medication routine if they have multiple medications stored in different locations throughout the house. If they are also hoarding old, outdated prescriptions and forgetting the times in which they have taken their medication, it may be time to consider better medication management through a form of assisted living to keep your loved one safe and in good health. 

MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a senior living and retirement home in Portland, Oregon, that opens in December 2022. Our assisted living in Portland offers residents an array of support in their daily activities while advocating for their safety and independence. Services in our retirement home include 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and an emphasis on medication management. Proper documentation and scheduling of our residents' medication avoids harmful and even fatal drug events. 

Contact us to earn more about MorningStar’s amenities and assisted living in Portland. Our staff is 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 assisted living facilities in Portland.  

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

August 24, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
Retirement Home, assisted living, senior living communities
Retirement Home

How to Build Lasting Friendships in Assisted Living

August 24, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

Staying social and participating in activities and events keeps seniors fulfilled and encourages healthy lifestyles. However, seniors may fall into the habit of doing the same things with the same people, or with their family members. Living at home, or participating in a reclusive lifestyle, limits a senior’s social circle and exploration. Moving to a senior living community should be seen as a great opportunity to make new friends with those who are living through the same phase of life. However, the idea of making new friends may bring up anxiety for seniors who have become accustomed to a certain way of living or who are experiencing mild memory loss. Here are some tips for creating lasting friendships within assisted living. 

Nowadays, modern senior living facilities offer a wide array of activities for seniors to participate in as a group. Keep an open mind and explore what your community has to offer. By going to the activities you enjoy, you’ll meet people who share your same interests. Hanging out in common areas is a great way to meet residents that have been there a while and can offer some advice and give you some quirky community news. MorningStar of Parker has over 40 community common areas and amenities. Some popular ones for friendly get-togethers are the on-campus coffee shop with barista, the outdoor dining decks equipped with a fire pit, and outdoor strolling paths through lush landscaping. 

MorningStar of Parker is a luxury, award winning senior living Community in Colorado. Since 2012, when MorningStar of Parker first opened assisted living and memory care in Parker, they have dedicated themselves to offering residents the finest care within a genuine family atmosphere. Their community offers 45 assisted living suites as studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans on two levels with a myriad of activities and amenities that are sure to get seniors out of their shells. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living and senior living in Parker, Colorado. Our staff is 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 senior living facilities in Colorado.  


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

August 24, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Retirement Communities, senior living
Assisted Living

This Assisted Living is Specially Designed for Carefree Retirement Years

August 22, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

"Outdated," "gray," and "isolating" are often words that come to mind when you think of retirement homes. These images are myths nowadays, as senior living in Portland is becoming more modernized with a focus on relaxation and comfort. Located in one of the most idyllic Portland neighborhoods, MorningStar at Laurelhurst features contemporary design elements throughout the community. Our interior is inspired by the vintage homes, lush greenery, and eclectic vibes of the Laurelhurst District. 

MorningStar communities are found across the Western US and have proudly earned a reputation for “casting a new light” on senior living. Opening in December 2022, MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a retirement home in Portland, Oregon, that focuses on elements of independence within assisted living. 

Assisted living residents who require support in daily activities have access to 24/7 care managers, medication management, licensed nurses, and more. MorningStar Senior Living in Portland assesses each resident's needs upon consultation and reviews them as their stay continues. Luxury amenities and hospitality services such as weekly laundry care, housekeeping, and all-day restaurant-style dining are just a few of the amenities that aid our assisted living seniors while our wellness programs offer an ideal environment to nurture new interests and hobbies to encourage independence and growth. 

In terms of modernization, our retirement home in Portland includes an elevated outdoor courtyard that provides an opportunity to appreciate the surrounding nature of Oregon. MorningStar at Laurelhurst includes expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light and beauty. On the inside, our community amenities range from a spa bath, salon, club rooms, a fitness center, and much more! 

Our community is located in the historic Laurelhurst district where long-time residents can continue to live comfortably in familiar surroundings or near loved ones. MorningStar's 5-story, 146,000 square feet building offers 83 assisted living suites and 32 suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer's and other dementia-related diseases.

Contact us to earn more about MorningStar’s amenities and assisted living in Portland. Our staff is 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 assisted living facilities in Portland.  

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

August 22, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Retirement Home, senior living communities
Assisted Living

Learn More About MorningStar of Idaho Falls

August 19, 2022 by MorningStar Senior Living in Memory Care

Now may be a great time to seriously think about a move into independent or assisted living. Fall is right around the corner and who wants to worry about raking leaves, snow removal and whether the roof will need replacement next year. Retirement communities like MorningStar of Idaho Falls take care of all the maintenance, both inside and outside, freeing you up to do the things you love. Even traveling is easier as you no longer have to worry about what is going on back home.  

Each of our 12 cottages and 87 private suites for independent living are smartly designed to maximize space and come with high-end finishes, full kitchen, high ceilings, patio or balcony, and other modern amenities.  For peace of mind, they are equipped with fully handicap-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems, dedicated heating and air conditioning systems, and basic cable TV, Internet and other utilities.  Cottages also include a fireplace and one-car garage. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services are another means to a carefree retirement. 

For those needing help with the activities of daily living, we also offer 66 suites for assistant living.  Residents receive the daily care they need to help them stay independent and include 24-hour caregivers, access to a licensed nurse and medication management among other services. Scheduled transportation is provided to doctors’ appointments, shopping and other places of interest. 

With a focus on community and wellness, residents enjoy five-star meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room.  In addition, we offer spacious common areas including a library, bistro, theater, billiards and game room, strolling paths and raised garden beds. Residents also enjoy participating in daily activities and special events.  

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls has 28 secure memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Meticulously designed to address the needs of our most tender residents, we use Montessori-based therapies to engage residents and find ways to celebrate life regardless of the extent of memory loss. Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Idaho Falls mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 residents outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care.

August 19, 2022 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Independent Living, Retirement Communities
Memory Care
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