Nursing Homes vs. Assisted Living: What’s the Difference?

You may have heard “nursing home” and “assisted living” used interchangeably. These terms mean different things for seniors looking for post-retirement housing. 

Assisted living offers unique benefits for residents that nursing homes may not provide. Here’s what you need to know about both. 

The Level of Care Your Loved One Needs

The type of senior living your loved one moves to will be highly dependent on the level of assistance they need. 
Assisted living is designed to foster seniors’ independence, social lives, and hobbies. 

In assisted living, your loved one receives help with daily tasks that are physically taxing. This includes the basics: eating, dressing, personal hygiene, and staying safe.

Nursing homes, on the other hand, provide long-term and in-depth medical care. As the name suggests, many nursing homes are staffed with Registered Nurses who specialize in senior care. 

Your loved one may need a nursing home if he or she cannot perform the majority of the required tasks of daily living on their own. Nursing homes provide special cognitive and physical health care benefits. 

How Assisted Living Nurtures Aging Adults

Assisted living communities are the perfect places for aging adults who are still highly independent and active. If your loved one enjoys socializing, participating in hobbies, and getting outdoors, assisted living may be right for them. 

Strong Social Networks

Social health should never be overlooked when it comes to aging adults. Elderly people with poor social lives are at higher risk of serious mental and physical health problems — as are people of any age.

Assisted living communities foster long-lasting social connections between residents. These communities often host events that bring residents together and offer fun activities. 

Assistance with a Few Tasks

If your loved one is in otherwise good health but needs help with some daily tasks, such as bathing and dressing, assisted living is likely the ideal option for them. 

The supportive, caring staff members of assisted living communities help residents with personal care and housekeeping. This means your loved one never has to worry about falling in the shower or managing their household chores on their own. 

Health and Fitness Programs

Most assisted living communities emphasize physical activity for residents. Daily exercise, even just walking outdoors at a moderate pace, can protect against serious health problems later in life. 
Some assisted living communities offer group fitness classes, swimming pools, and personalized wellness plans. Nutrition and physical activity are vital keys to a long, healthy life!

Should You Choose a Nursing Home or Assisted Living?

It all boils down to how much medical and cognitive support your loved one needs. If your loved one requires more extensive care, a nursing home may be the best option for them. 

On the other hand, if your loved one enjoys lots of hobbies, sports, and exercise but just needs some extra help, assisted living is the place to go.

How to Talk to Your Parents About a Move to Assisted Living

Your parents are some of the most important people in your life. It can be tough to bring up the subject of assisted living as they age. 

However, assisted living benefits aging parents in so many ways. It’s worth having honest conversations to bring your aging parents up to speed about the advantages of assisted living. 
Here’s how you can start these difficult conversations and set your parents up for success. 

Don’t Shy Away from Their Feelings

Your parents may experience intense emotions of some kind when you bring up assisted living. This is normal and natural. 

Try not to avoid your parents’ feelings as you discuss assisted living. They can feel tough emotions while still recognizing that assisted living may be the best option for them. 

It’s also a good idea to get in the habit of validating your parents’ feelings. 

For example, if they express anger at the idea of moving to assisted living, you can say, “I understand that you feel betrayed by this. We are trying to improve your health and get you the care that you need. It’s okay to feel angry.”

Validating your parents’ emotions can go a long way in building trust and solid communication. These things can make the move to assisted living much easier. 

Give Them Choices and Autonomy

You should include your parents in the decision-making process when you're considering assisted living. 
For example, you can give them a list of the assisted living communities you feel would work best for them. Have them visit these communities’ websites, Facebook pages, and blogs for more information. You can even schedule in-person or virtual tours!

Ultimately, your parents are the ones who will spend their time in assisted living. Allow them to voice their opinions about each potential community and respect what they say. 

Have Multiple Conversations Over Time

If you continue to bring up the subject of assisted living, your parents may warm up to it over time. It’s best to have frequent, shorter conversations about it after you initially present the idea. 

Repeated exposure to the idea of moving to assisted living will make the process less scary and sudden for your aging parents. They may even start coming up with ideas for the move themselves!

Discuss assisted living at neutral times during the day, like mealtimes or during personal grooming routines. This will give your parents plenty of time to process, reflect, and discuss everything without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. 

Help Your Parents Learn About the Benefits of Assisted Living

It’s never easy to bring up assisted living for the first time with your elderly parents. If you follow these tips, your conversations will be easier and much more respectful. 
Assisted living has a wealth of benefits for seniors and their families. Help your parents learn about the advantages by having these difficult conversations.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Searching for a Retirement Home

Choosing a retirement home is a serious decision for senior adults and their family members. Whether you are looking at retirement homes for yourself or helping a loved one by finding one for them, the following are some common mistakes you will want to avoid:

Deciding Too Soon

A common mistake that many people make when looking at retirement homes is choosing the first one that they see. While the first facility you tour may be great and have everything you are looking for, it is important to consider all of your options. 

Taking a look at several different homes can give you a more well-rounded idea of what you or your loved one requires. You may also find that the first home you toured actually wasn’t ideal when you find a better choice later in your search.

Not Considering Medical Needs

One of the biggest mistakes that can be made when searching for a retirement home is not considering your or your loved one’s medical needs. Many senior adults have unique health concerns and require medical care. 

If this is the case for you, it is important to find a facility that has either on-site nursing staff or easy access to nearby medical facilities. This ensures that your or your senior family member’s medical needs can be properly met.

Looking Too Far from Home

If you plan on receiving visitors often — or if you plan on visiting your loved one in their new retirement home — you must consider location. It is not uncommon for people to find a great senior living facility that is hours away from friends and family. 

While you may think the distance will not be a problem, visits can become difficult over time if the retirement home is too far. Senior adults often struggle with feelings of loneliness, making visits with friends and family essential for their well-being. This is why it is important to consider the distance when searching for retirement homes.

Ignoring Reviews and Testimonials

When searching for a retirement home, it is always a good idea to look at other residents’ experiences. A common mistake that some people make is ignoring negative reviews and testimonials because they like other things about a facility. 

Regardless of what that facility has to offer, you should take testimonials from other residents or their family members seriously and inquire with the staff about these concerns.

Finding the Right Retirement Home
When looking at retirement homes for yourself or a loved one, you will want to avoid these common mistakes that could lead to a poor choice. If you are searching for the best senior living facility, make sure to consider any medical concerns, keep location in mind, and review testimonials from other residents.
And perhaps most importantly, when it comes to any significant choice, it’s best not to make a decision too soon.

4 Steps to Take Before Moving a Loved One into Senior Living

Making the transition into senior living can be a delicate time for many older adults. When you are helping a senior family member or other loved one move into senior living, there are certain steps you should take to make the transition easier. Take a look at the four steps below:

1. Assess Their Physical Needs

Before moving your loved one into senior living, the first step is assessing their needs. Every person is unique and requires different types of assistance as they age. Some older adults can live independently with little to no daily assistance. These seniors are best suited for independent living communities. 

Older adults with limited mobility, grave health concerns, or cognitive issues often require ongoing assistance with tasks like bathing, feeding, and more. These seniors benefit most from assisted living facilities with staff on-site around the clock to help.

2. Consider Medical Requirements

When assessing your loved one’s needs, it is important to consider any medical requirements they may have. Many seniors have serious health concerns that require ongoing, everyday medical care. These seniors may need skilled nursing assistance, memory care, or physical therapy. 

Before moving them into any kind of senior living facility, ensure they can access the necessary medical services. 

3. Look into Financial Options

Senior living can be a costly expense for many families. When helping a loved one transition into a senior living facility, you will need to take a thorough look at both their finances and those of anyone helping with payment. Make sure you choose an independent or assisted living facility your family can afford. 

If you require financial assistance, there are many resources out there that can help with the costs of senior care. Make sure to look into these financial options so you can use every resource available to your family.

4. Help Prepare Their Belongings

A common concern for older adults transitioning into senior living is the ability to take their belongings. Depending on the type of community they are moving into, they may not be able to take everything from their home. This is especially true for seniors moving into assisted living. 

You will want to help your loved one take inventory of their belongings and determine their most cherished and important items. You may also want to look into storage facilities that can hold onto any additional belongings they cannot keep with them but do not want to part with.

Transitioning into Senior Living

From assessing medical and physical needs to preparing their belongings, there are several important steps to take before moving a loved one into senior living. Taking these steps can help your senior family member get off to the best start when transitioning into assisted or independent living.

What to Do When Senior Parents Refuse to Consider Assisted Living

If you’re looking for advice concerning assisted living, chances are you recently had a tough conversation about moving your parents out of their home and into a community. Naturally, they might feel overwhelmed and defensive about potentially moving to assisted living.

Here’s what you can do to calm them down and help them see the advantages that assisted living communities offer.

Recognize Why They Don’t Want to Go

It’s understandable for elderly parents to refuse assisted living at first. After all, no one likes to be reminded that they’re getting older and are in worse health than they used to be.

Empathy and understanding can go a long way during these transitions. Recognize that your parents aren't trying to be difficult — they’re simply struggling with the reality of aging.

Imagine how you would feel if you had to give up your current home to move into an assisted living community. The experience would be difficult no matter how amazing your new community may be.
Acknowledge your loved ones’ worries and try to put yourself in their shoes as you navigate this sensitive subject.

Continue to Highlight the Positives 

Assisted living communities can be the best possible place for many older people to improve their quality of life. As such, it’s best to emphasize the positives when discussing the potential move.

For example, instead of focusing on your parents’ health problems and limitations, reframe the conversation to highlight all the things they can do in assisted living: receive direct assistance, enjoy various amenities, make new friends, and much more.

Avoid Pressuring or Shaming Your Parents

It’s easy to get frustrated when your senior parents resist the idea of entering assisted living. However, voicing your aggravation can often do more harm than good. 

Try not to make your parents feel pressured or rushed as they make their decision. They won’t respond well if they feel they’re being forced to do something they don’t want to do.

Never bring up your loved ones’ medical problems in an attempt to persuade them to move. Rather than changing their minds, it will likely just make them feel ashamed and may even cause them to oppose the idea more adamantly.

Give Them Plenty of Control 

You might think that the purpose of assisted living is to look after your senior parents as though they were completely helpless, but this isn’t true. Assisted living facilities are designed to help seniors retain their autonomy while getting the help they need. 

You should do the same as you prepare them to enter assisted living. Let them make choices and have some say over how things are done. Aside from non-negotiable arrangements and safety concerns, your parents should be able to make most of their own decisions during every part of the process.

Help Your Parents with a Move to Assisted Living

Your parents deserve the highest quality care available, and assisted living can give it to them. With time, patience, and grace, they may even come to view the transition as a good thing.

Some Medications May Impair Your Memory

As we age, many seniors experience occasional “brain fog” or forgetfulness and have trouble comprehending and processing new information. Medical experts say this may be a normal part of aging but could also be from some of the medications you are taking. 

Dr. Mark Albers, a neurologist at the McCance Center for Brain Health at Harvard - affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital, says it is not all that uncommon for seniors to experience symptoms of brain fog when taking certain medications for the first time. He explains medications can affect memory more in aging adults as “older people tend to metabolize drugs more slowly, making them more sensitive to medications and more vulnerable to side effects.” 

Other reasons medications cause more problems in seniors are they often take larger doses of a drug and more frequently as well as take several drugs to treat one health condition. Moreover, older people may have a weakened blood-brain barrier. This barrier works to block toxins and other harmful substances including drugs from entering the brain, which may account for some memory problems. 

Sleep medications are one of the common medications that can be problematic. Over-the-counter sleeping aids can contain anticholinergic drugs, which are known to impair cognitive function, and some prescription sleep drugs diminish activity in parts of the brain involved in transferring short-term memories to long-term memory. Pain medications can additionally result in memory problems. The good news is once patients stop taking sleep or pain meds, modify the dose or replace the drug with a better option, many of the problems go away.    

MorningStar at West San Jose is proud to offer seniors a vibrant and carefree lifestyle to help live life to the fullest. Our new senior living community offers a selection of assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans equipped with kitchenettes, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, and emergency call systems.  Residents enjoy all-day dining, fitness center, theater, salon and sky terrace along with wellness programs and activities which promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us for more information.  We are scheduled to open to residents in June 2023.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/stuck-in-a-brain-fog-look-in-your-medicine-cabinet

Top Amenities to Look for in an Assisted Living Community

Assisted living communities are wonderful places where aging adults can get the support that they need. Retirement homes and assisted living communities offer amenities to make residents’ lives easier and more enjoyable. 
While the quality of care for your loved one is most important, amenities matter, too. Here are some of the best amenities to look for when you’re evaluating senior living communities. 

Nutritious and Delicious Dining Options

Your loved one shouldn’t have to sacrifice taste for high-quality nutritional meals in assisted living. Look for communities that have various dining options for residents. 

Most senior living communities are focused on optimal nutrition. This ensures that your loved one will stay as physically healthy as possible. Nutrients help their body function properly and can fight against some diseases. 

However, your loved one’s taste preferences matter, too. Look for select dining options that include their favorites, whether it’s a good pizza joint or garden-fresh salads. 

Pools and Water Fitness

Indoor and outdoor swimming pools should be at the top of your amenities list. Water fitness is much easier for seniors to enjoy, as it takes the pressure off their joints. 

High-quality assisted living communities offer both indoor and outdoor pools for residents. 
In regions where the weather gets dangerously hot, swimming pools are vital for aging adults. Elderly people are much more likely to suffer from heat stroke, so make sure you choose a community with at least one swimming pool. 

During the warmer months of the year, it’s great to sit out and sunbathe or take a cool dip in the water. When it’s cold outside, your loved one will still be able to enjoy aquatic fitness classes to stay in shape.

Outdoor Sports and Activities

Moving to senior living should not restrict your loved one’s social life and hobbies. Many assisted living communities offer outdoor adventures with options for group endeavors. 
Some popular outdoor activities in senior living include:

• Frisby/disc golf

• Hiking

• Biking

• Swimming

• Walking on nature trails

• Sand volleyball

• Outdoor fitness classes

These amenities allow your loved one to remain in good physical health for the rest of their years. 
The social aspect of outdoor activities is equally important. Aging adults often struggle with feelings of loneliness and poor self-esteem. With group activities, they can socialize and form strong bonds with their fellow residents. 

Choose the Best Retirement Home Amenities for Your Loved One

Moving to assisted living and other retirement homes can be difficult for the families of aging adults. There’s a lot to consider, but don’t overlook amenities when choosing an assisted living community. If you select a high-quality community, you can rest assured that your loved one has plenty of enjoyable activities to keep them engaged.

3 Signs Your Elderly Loved One May Need Skilled Nursing Care

It’s never easy to care for an aging loved one as their health declines. Unfortunately, many family members of seniors don’t have the skills to keep up with their loved one’s medical needs. 

In skilled nursing care provided by assisted living or retirement homes, your loved one is in the best hands possible. Here are some of the signs that your loved one needs more advanced medical care.
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 1. They Have Trouble with Basic Tasks

As your loved one gets older, they may have several medical problems that make daily life difficult. Basic tasks like hygiene, grooming, and cooking may be challenging. 

This usually happens because of physical or cognitive decline. No matter which one applies to your loved one, if they start having these issues, it’s time for skilled nursing care. 

Skilled nursing care provides your loved one with assistance for every daily task. This includes bathing, showering, personal grooming, and keeping their living space clean. 

2. Their Current Caregiver Is Burnt Out

It’s common for family members to take over the care of an aging loved one in the family. However, without extensive training and education, caregivers easily become burnt out. 

Burnout is a serious problem that caregivers of all kinds face, especially those caring for seniors. There are many complex medical and mental health problems involved with senior care. Family members without medical knowledge or training should not be expected to handle these perfectly. 

In addition, caregiver burnout can lead to serious safety risks for both the caregiver and your loved one. If you notice that the family member caring for your loved one is irritable, depressed, or otherwise “off,” it’s time for skilled nursing care. 

In assisted living and retirement homes, nurses work in shifts to care for your loved one. They get time to recharge so that their caregiving skills remain top-notch. 

3. They Have Trouble Taking Their Medications​

Medication is an important part of senior health management. If your loved one struggles to remember their daily medications, it may be time to consider senior living. 

Many health conditions affect elderly people and require medication to stay under control. Diabetes, heart problems, and high blood pressure are just a few. Without taking their medication properly, your loved one could be at serious risk of complications. 

Some aging adults have trouble with memory, swallowing, and fine motor skills. All of these problems can make taking medication more difficult. 

In assisted living and retirement homes, nurses manage medication so that your loved one will always get the proper dose of their medications on time. 

Senior Living: Seek the Skilled Nursing Care Your Loved One Needs

There is no shame in seeking out senior living services for your loved one. They deserve the best possible quality of life, and skilled nursing care can help ease the challenges that come with aging.

Is it Time to Consider Assisted Living?

If a loved one is starting to slow down and would welcome assistance with personal daily care or has mobility issues requiring major renovations to their existing home, it may be time to think about assisted living. While there may be several communities to choose from, it is useful to have some insight into your parents’ needs when evaluating senior living communities. 

A Place for Mom, an Internet referral service, explains a good place to start is to “compare factors like staff friendliness, amenities, and overall culture.” If you plan to do a virtual tour or onsite visit, come prepared with a list of questions regarding costs, care plans, amenities, programming, and general lifestyle and culture. 

During your visit, observe residents. Do they seem engaged, happy? Are they encouraged to participate in activities and events? Ask to see the community’s calendar of activities. If your parents love to play bridge, does the community have a game room and a bridge club? If mom or dad is no longer driving, does the community offer scheduled transportation to doctor visits and other appointments? Do they do outside trips to area shopping and local parks?  

Remember your loved one’s suite is where they will sleep but the wider community is where they will live.  Are the common rooms inviting? How about the outdoor areas? Is there a nice courtyard or terrace where they can sit and relax on a nice day? If mom or dad enjoys a glass of wine before dinner, is it available? Other things to ask about include the meal service, the community’s ability to handle both present and future care needs and how emergencies are handled? 

MorningStar at West San Jose is a new senior living community designed from the ground up to meet the needs of residents with a range of luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Opening in June, our community offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood will have suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted assisted living or memory care, please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.

Pets Offer Many Benefits for Seniors

Research has shown that having a pet can improve our mental health, cardiovascular health and PTSD symptoms.  In fact, even if you do not own a pet but just spend some time interacting with animals, it can lift your spirits and decrease stress.  Also, during times of loneliness, many of us feel our pets are more important than ever.   

Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection.  Caring for an animal can be a welcome distraction from life’s other worries and can provide more meaning to our life.  Moreover, how can you feel upset or angry when sitting with a cat on your lap and hearing the relaxing, melodious sound of their purr?  Research has shown that an act as simple as petting a dog or cat has been shown to reduce stress and help regulate our mood.  

Many people believe their pet can pick up on their emotions and know when they are sad or stressed and need a little “extra love.”   In addition, dogs need exercise so many dog owners are motivated to get outside and exercise, which is always a good thing.  However, experts warn that before you rush out and adopt an animal, you think about how much time you have for their care, and do you have the money to pay for the extra expenses?  Also, if your choice is a dog, are you physically able to provide the animal with the daily exercise they need? 

At MorningStar at West San Jose, scheduled to open in June, we will provide our assisted living and memory care residents an array of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities.  We also recognize the relationship that exists between a senior and their pet, which is why we will welcome pets.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about our beautiful new 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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

Get Out in the Garden This Spring

A garden full of beautiful flowers and/or home-grown vegetables is a gratifying pastime for many seniors. Not only does it offer beauty and wholesome, nutritional food for you and those you share your bounty with, but a healthier lifestyle. 

Experts say getting outside to work in the garden is a wonderful way to get exercise and enjoy nature as well as to get a dose of vitamin D. They warn to protect your exposed skin with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, wear light, loose clothing, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and don’t overdo it, and avoid working outside during the heat of the day. Gardening is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress and to forget about your problems, at least for a while. Overall, even a few hours a week doing something as enjoyable as gardening can strengthen muscles, improve mobility and increase flexibility.  

Growing tomatoes and lettuce or starting an herb garden is a great place for beginners to start and are appropriate plants for container gardening. For flowers, stick to those suitable for your region. Planning your garden is a big part of the fun and involves critical thinking in deciding what to plant and how to care for it.  In fact, studies show that with the physical aspect of gardening and the critical thinking skills involved in planning it, you may lessen your chance of getting Alzheimer's disease. 

Another often overlooked benefit of gardening is the social aspect. While working in your garden may be a solitary activity, gardeners enjoy getting together in the forms of clubs, visiting their local farmers market, nursery trips, or joining a community garden project.  

The MorningStar of Idaho Falls senior living community offers stylish independent living and assisted living as well as compassionate, professional memory care. To ensure the comfort and wellbeing of residents, we offer resort-style amenities and services with beautiful common areas including a library, bistro, theater, restaurant-style dining, and raised garden beds. Please visit our website for more information.

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

4 Downsizing Tips for Seniors Moving to Retirement Communities

It’s time for the big move! As you and your loved one navigate their move to a retirement home, there is one important thing to consider: downsizing. 
Your loved one has likely gathered lots of possessions over the years. They may not even realize how much stuff they have — until it’s moving day. 
To avoid last-minute stress and hassle, follow these tips for downsizing your loved one’s living space. 

1. Hold a Garage Sale
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Garage sales are the perfect tool for downsizing your loved one’s belongings. Their possessions can go to good use, and you can clear out unused things that don’t need to travel to their new home. 
If your loved one doesn’t have a yard to hold the sale in, offer up your own yard space or that of a family member. The more items you can sell during the sale, the easier moving into a senior living community will be. 

2. Start Going Through Their Belongings in Advance

Don’t wait until the moving day to go through your loved one’s belongings with them. They need to pick out items with sentimental value and choose which things to discard. 

The sorting and organizing process can take weeks or even months, depending on how much your loved one owns. Start preparing in advance so that you don’t end up in a bind later on. 
You can even make a schedule that outlines exact dates for going through old items. This will give your loved one a sense of security and predictability, which is essential during the moving process. 

3. Sell Large Furniture

In retirement homes, there are plenty of furnishings provided already. Your loved one will not need large furniture unless the senior living community specifies that they do. 

Knowing this, it’s an excellent idea to re-home your loved one’s couches, dining tables, and chairs. Anything with sentimental value can be kept in storage or at a family member’s house. 

4. Make a Packing List

It might be easier to start with the opposite goal in mind: what will your loved one be taking with them? 
If you make a packing list together, you can identify the items that will not be sold or given away. This will clear up lots of space (both mentally and in their home) for downsizing other items. 

Categorize your loved one’s packing list. It’s a good idea to include items like entertainment, clothing, toiletries, and decorations. If you tackle the list in chunks, you won’t feel overwhelmed. 

Help Your Loved One Make the Big Move with Ease
Downsizing can help make moving to an assisted living or senior living community much easier. Help your loved one tackle their belongings to make their move-in day as low-stress as possible!

Be Involved in Your or a Loved One’s Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy.  The World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.”  Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  

Furthermore, studies show the most harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines.  Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis resulted in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong drugs prescribed.  

However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all of the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.  Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet and alcohol consumption.  

Medical professionals say to remember the time spent with your doctor is short, so to help prevent errors with care, come prepared to your appointment by putting in writing critical points you wish to discuss.  The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple App store to help you focus on the questions you need to ask during your appointment.  

Other things to do before the appointment include putting together a list of medications you take, the dosage, and why you take it.  If you worry about forgetting something you were told during the visit, take along a family member or trusted friend.  Also ask questions and seek a second opinion if it would make you more comfortable.  Most importantly if a medical problem is not getting better, remain persistent in addressing it with your medical team.  

At MorningStar at West San Jose, our goal is to provide the best senior living in the area, and we offer all the services needed to support and enhance our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. Our beautiful community, scheduled to open in June, will have 69 assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood will offer specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s amenities, care services and pricing.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.

MorningStar of Idaho Falls Offers Exceptional Senior Living

Since our company was founded in 2003, we have believed it is a privilege to “cast a new light” on senior living guided by the following precepts: to honor God in our business practices and relationships; value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. In addition, we firmly believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. 

MorningStar of Idaho Falls provides all the services, resort-style amenities, and programs to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.   Starting with a five-star dining service that includes meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients, restaurant-style dining and a private dining room, we have an onsite bistro, theatre, spa bath, and more.  Other amenities include a billiards & game room, library and fitness room as well as scheduled transportation. 

To serve the various needs of seniors, we offer both cottages as well as stylish suites for independent living.  MorningStar’s independent living promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle with maintenance-free living, built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and activities. Weekly housekeeping helps keep life simple and frees up time for other interests. Maybe it is time to improve your golf game, start or renew a hobby, get closer to the grandkids or volunteer in your community. 

If you are a senior who requires help with the activities of daily living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls provides various levels of assisted living. As a resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls offers compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also fully encourages and supports choice and independence as much as possible.  Memory care residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills, and art, and as well as outings and special events. 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 the finest senior living in the area. Please contact us to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

What’s the Difference Between Long-Term and Short-Term Elder Care?

There are many options when it comes to senior care and support. Knowledge is your best weapon against the fear and hesitation your loved one — and you — may feel. 

Long-term and short-term elder care serve different purposes. Which of these types of senior care could be right for your family member depends on several factors. 

The Goals of Short-Term Care

Short-term senior care services are designed to help your loved one reach certain milestones. For example, if they have suffered an injury, occupational therapy can help them regain mobility in the affected areas. 
Some aging adults need short-term care after surgery or other invasive medical treatments. They receive nursing and specialized medical support for as long as they need it. 

Rehabilitation is another common term for short-term care. This term may sound more familiar to you and your loved one. After medical events, rehabilitation aims to restore independence and function to your loved one’s life.

Most short-term facilities end your loved one’s care when they are able to function normally again. At this point, your loved one returns to their home and may follow up with outpatient therapy. 

Long-Term Care: Sustained Medical Services

Elderly adults often have long-term medical needs that cannot be “fixed” within a few appointments. This is especially true if your loved one needs memory care or other senior living services. 

In long-term care, your loved one receives nursing care indefinitely. This means there is no end date or goal in mind that will terminate your loved one’s care. 

Long-term care is perfect for seniors struggling with memory problems, serious medical conditions, and general health decline. 

Assisted Living 

Assisted living is considered long-term care. When your loved one moves into assisted living, they get to keep their independence while receiving help with daily tasks. 

This is a popular option for aging adults who would like additional support with basic tasks, such as cleaning, but do not struggle with advanced memory conditions. 

There are still safety measures in place in assisted living facilities. Many common elderly safety hazards are eliminated or addressed in assisted living. 

Additionally, assisted living offers long-term support for aging adults to make sure they are healthy, happy, and thriving. Medical services, like nursing care, are usually available to all residents in senior living communities and retirement homes. 

Choosing the Right Type of Elderly Care

If your loved one has experienced a consistent decline in physical and/or cognitive abilities, or if they would simply enjoy continued daily assistance within a supportive community, it might be time for long-term elderly care. 

On the other hand, short-term injuries, surgeries, and illnesses can be addressed with rehabilitation services. You, your loved one, and their medical providers can discuss the best options for their unique needs.

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar’s New Community in San Jose

Along with assisted living, the new MorningStar at West San Jose scheduled to open in June will have 34 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Although new to San Jose, MorningStar brings 19 years of experience to memory care in senior communities across eleven states.  

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 will be staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy 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 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. 

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar of Idaho Falls

For exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care, seniors and their families are encouraged to learn more about Morningstar of Idaho Falls.  Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community.  In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company.  

For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design.  Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities.  Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our well-designed cottages and suites.  We offer a range of floor plans and configurations to meet varying needs.

We also encourage you to view the virtual tour on our home page.  Here you will get a good look at some of our common areas including dining room, bistro, billiards & game room, fitness room, and gathering spaces. In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness.  
We then suggest you browse through the links at the top of the page to learn more about First Steps, Lifestyle Options, Wellness and Our Heart.  More questions are answered on our FAQ page (under First Steps) including what makes MorningStar different; understanding senior living; care services; pricing, and the move in process.  If you like what you see please contact us for pricing, availability and any other questions you may have.  We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar takes pride in the reputation our communities have earned since 2003 for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in Idaho Falls.

A Complete Checklist for Your Move to Senior Living: What to Pack

You have finally committed to a senior living community, and now you’re ready to move. Congratulations! 
The next important step is to decide what to bring with you and what to leave behind in storage. Keep in mind that some retirement homes and assisted living facilities offer less space than you are used to. 
Here’s a complete packing list for your move into senior living so you can enjoy the transition stress-free:

Weather-Appropriate Clothing 

You should pack your clothing according to the weather patterns in your senior living community. 
If you are moving close to your current home, you already know what each season tends to bring. If you are moving farther away, you may need to research that area’s seasonal weather patterns online. 

For hot weather, make sure you pack plenty of cotton clothing that is light and breathable. Lighter colors will keep your skin cooler in the sun. Wearing lighter shades will help prevent you from becoming overheated. 
In cold-weather regions, make sure you have all of the winter essentials, including: 

• Hats

• Gloves

• Scarves

• Heavy winter coats

• Mittens

• Ear muffs

• Sweaters 

• Turtlenecks

• Layered clothing

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These are must-haves when you move somewhere cold. 

Sentimental Items

It’s important to feel at home and comfortable in retirement homes and assisted living facilities. For this reason, you should bring a few items that have sentimental value to you. 

This can include family heirlooms, cards from loved ones, or scrapbooks with photos of your loved ones. These items are wonderful to look at when you feel lonely, homesick, and nostalgic. 

Don’t forget any special blankets, pillowcases, and clothing items as well. You can make room in your new living space for these sentimental touches. 

Kitchen Utensils

Many kitchen appliances are provided in retirement homes and assisted living facilities, but you may need to bring your own utensils. 

Pack a modest amount of these items for your new living space:

• Plates

• Cups

• Forks

• Spoons

• Knives

• Mugs ​

Some of these items may even have sentimental value, so you can kill two birds with one stone!

Accessibility Tools

If you have cleaning supplies, bathroom supports, and other accessibility items, make sure you bring them to senior living. These convenience tools will help you with everyday tasks like cleaning, grooming, and cooking. 
Senior living residences are generally accessible to accommodate mobility problems and disabilities, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Bring any devices that make your daily life easier.

Games and Entertainment

From crossword puzzles to novels, there are many options for entertainment. You will likely have ample free time to explore your hobbies and entertain yourself in senior living. Don’t forget to pack your favorite entertainment items!

Get Prepared for Your Move to Senior Living!

With this packing essentials list, you can transition into senior living with ease. Always check your community’s policies beforehand to see what items are forbidden for safety reasons. 
You don’t have to fear the move to assisted living or retirement homes. Use this list to get started on your packing to-do list, and look forward to your brand-new lifestyle!

5 Benefits of Moving into a Skilled Assisted Living Facility

If you have an aging loved one in your life, you know that they may require lots of support and assistance. Assisted living retirement homes can offer the care that they need while supporting their independence and freedom. 

Here are five reasons you should consider senior living for your loved one. 

1. Specialized Nursing Care 
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Your loved ones will have access to specialized nursing services once they move into retirement homes or assisted living facilities. The nurses on staff have extensive training with elderly patients, so they know the best medical solutions to offer your loved one. 

For people of any age, frequent medical appointments can be tiring. With assisted living, nursing support services are available as your loved one needs them. 

This also means you don’t have to worry whether your loved one is taking their medications properly. Medication management is part of senior living by default. 

2. Enjoyable Amenities

Many assisted living facilities and retirement homes offer exciting amenities. These additional services and spaces offer your loved ones more life satisfaction without the hassle of transportation. 
Most senior living communities offer amenities such as:

• Swimming pools

• Fitness centers

• Nutrition and wellness classes

• Game nights

• Common areas for socialization

• Outdoor tracks and paths 

• Recreational sports

• Group classes for hobbies and crafts

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With these amenities at their disposal, your loved one can enjoy their golden years with convenience. 

3. Housekeeping Services
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In senior living communities, housekeeping services are part of your loved one’s resident package. These services include tasks like laundry, bathroom cleaning, and dishes. 
Your loved one may struggle with mobility, energy, or other physical problems. These issues can make cleaning and organizing a major chore. 

In assisted living and retirement homes, your loved one doesn’t have to worry about these things. They are already done for them!

4. Community Events

Who doesn’t love a night out with friends? 

In retirement communities, gatherings and events are very common. They encourage residents to spend time together socializing, exercising, and having fun. 

Community relationships are incredibly important for mental health at any age. In senior living, your loved one has access to the members of their community regularly. As a bonus, they get to have fun participating in new hobbies and activities!

5. Better Quality of Life

With 24/7 access to proper medical care, amenities, and socialization, your loved one can thrive in senior living. 

Quality of life becomes more important than ever as adults reach retirement age. They have worked their whole lives, and it’s common to search for meaning and purpose afterward. 
In senior living, they can find themselves all over again while enjoying the various convenient services and amenities. 

Consider Assisted Living for Your Family Member

If the elderly adult in your life has started to struggle with the basic tasks of daily life, or if they are tired of dedicating the time and expense it takes to maintain a home, assisted living may be the ideal solution. There, they can get the support that they need while freeing up time for your relationship to thrive.

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.