When is it Time to Move a Parent to Assisted Living?

It can be hard to truly know when it’s time to make the transition to assisted living. We may often feel blind-sighted when it comes to this decision. We have always seen our parents as independent and strong providers, so when things start to fall by the wayside, this can cause us to experience confusion and denial. To help you better understand your parents’ changing needs, below is a comprehensive list that better outlines when it is time to consider moving a parent to an assisted living community.

Look out for these behaviors or actions that might indicate the need for assisted living care:

1. Difficulty with  housekeeping or completing regular chores

   Aging definitely can cause some seniors to slow down, meaning chores may not be done as quickly as they once were. However, this can also be the first cause for concern. If there is more trash around the house, garbage not being taken out, dirty dishes sitting around, or general hoarding happening in your loved one’s home, this can be a sign that your parents need assisted living care. They may be forgetting to do these chores or be unable to do them on their own. 

2. Unusual weight gain or weight loss

   When a senior is no longer able to properly cook for themselves, they may not eat or exclusively eat processed meals or fast food. A drastic change in your loved one’s weight should be a huge warning sign that they may require assisted living care or even medical attention due to improper eating habits. 

3. Behavior changes

   Getting older can generally cause some personality or communication changes, but if you are noticing a drastic personality change, you may want to consider alternative living arrangements for your loved one. They may be experiencing symptoms of dementia, depression, anxiety, or another ailment that is causing them to act unlike themselves. 

Find Your New Assisted Living Home Today

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes 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.

Modify Activities for People Living With Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia shouldn’t give up the activities they love. Rather they suggest the better option is to modify the activity to better fit their skill set and current ability. 

However, even in the early stages of the disease, many withdraw from the activities they used to enjoy but experts say it is important to help them stay engaged. A modification can be as simple as reducing the number of people the person socializes with at a time. Smaller groups are less intimidating and reduce confusion. Also, it helps to let the person’s other family members and friends know about the diagnosis.   

As the disease progresses, other changes will likely be in order. If you notice an activity that seems to make them restless or irritable, either modify so it brings them happiness or stop it altogether. For instance, while a person’s skills may decline, someone who plays the piano may still enjoy playing the simple pieces they learned years ago.

Dementia care specialists say setting up a daily routine is important and should include the things they like to do on their own such as setting the table or folding laundry and be done when the person seems to function the best. Remember to be flexible and include a range of creative, physical, social and spiritual activities that bring meaning and enjoyment into their life.   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose offers specialized care to individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.  Our secure and loving Reflections Neighborhood can provide the care your family member needs at the onset of the disease through to the most advanced stages where the highest level of care is required.  

MorningStar’s compassionate caregivers use gentle, resident-directed methods to calm and awaken memories and to support each resident’s capabilities.  Common techniques include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy as well as a range of meaningful and purposeful activities that incorporate art, dance, music, exercise and life skills. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care in San Jose, CA. 

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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/daily-care-plan

HOW TO STAY ACTIVE IN COLD WEATHER

Because of its proximity to the Canadian border, Idaho Falls can get cold for extended periods during winter. Average high temperatures in winter run in the 20s and 30s, with at times a blustery wind blowing in from the Arctic region. For as cold as it typically gets in winter, Idaho Falls, like the rest of the United States, went into a deep freeze in January of 2024 when daily high temperatures sometimes did not get out of the single digits.

The deep freeze of January 2024 made it difficult for outdoor enthusiasts to stay active by enjoying the great outdoors. However, during more typical winters, knowing how to stay active in cold weather starts by enjoying a wide variety of outdoor activities. Like the rest of Idaho Falls, the residents at our assisted living facility enjoy the same outdoor activities to stay active in winter.

How to Stay Active in Cold Weather While Outdoors

Staying active while outdoors in winter delivers several benefits. You do not have to deal with heat and humidity, which can be energy drainers during the summer months. Since you can work out longer outdoors during winter, you might be able to burn more calories. For those sensitive to sunlight, staying active outdoors allows them to take in smaller doses of the sun’s rays. During cold and flu season, outdoor exercises also can boost your immunity.

What are some of the most popular activities outdoors in cold weather? Brisk walks do a great job of pumping up the body’s circulatory system. Doing chores such as raking leaves and shoveling snow works out a wide variety of muscles to increase strength. When snow starts to fall in the area, many of the residents at our senior living center in Idaho Falls enjoy activities like sledding, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. The key is to stay warm while outdoors by wearing layers to trap body heat.

How to Stay Active in Cold Weather While Indoors

Even if Idaho Falls does not experience an especially cold stretch like the residents of retirement communities did in January of 2024, winter in this part of the country can include at least one stretch when staying active indoors makes more sense. You have many options to stay active indoors during winter without having to join a gym or fitness center. To get the most out of indoor activities, wearing a backpack or hand weights increases the resistance level of certain exercises.

Mall walking has emerged as one of the most popular ways to stay active indoors during cold weather. Not only do you get a solid workout, but you also get to socialize with other walkers. Socialization is important for residents of retirement communities in Idaho Falls. You can invest in a home workout circuit or use the fitness center at our assisted living facility. Indoor activities such as bowling and ice skating help you stay active indoors while at the same time getting your competitive juices flowing. Climbing stairs at home firm up the leg muscles. Even household chores like sweeping and vacuuming are effective at keeping seniors active when it is too cold to go outdoors.

Stay Active at MorningStar at Idaho Falls

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week to improve the quality of life. At our senior living center in Idaho Falls, we offer residents plenty of opportunities to stay active in cold weather both indoors and outdoors.

Retirement Homes in Portland with Active Senior Living

There is a misconception that retirement homes limit a senior’s independence and social engagement. Modern senior living communities are changing that narrative. Offering a wide array of social activities, community events and activities, MorningStar Senior Living has created the best retirement homes Portland, Oregon, has to offer seniors looking to maintain or grow their independence and relationships. 

After your first tour, you’ll come to understand why MorningStar Retirement Homes are rated as one of the highest senior living communities in Portland. Seniors and their families trust active senior living communities for the following reasons: 

1. Active Senior Living Communities Aid in Better Mental Health

Isolated seniors often feel disconnected from their friends, community and family. If your elderly parent or loved one is living alone, dealing with immobility issues or struggling to participate in everyday tasks by themselves, they may be experiencing feelings of loneliness. Senior living communities in Portland combat this issue by creating walkable and easily accessible communities for seniors to thrive. Behind MorningStar’s walls is a bustling senior community full of chatter and seniors completing everyday activities. Inside MorningStar, you can find bistros, hair salons, gyms, movie theatres, libraries, and much more. 

2. More Time to Relax with Those You Love in Senior Living

When you’re caring for a home or another individual in old age, you may not have as much time to relax as you thought you would. Seniors in retirement communities have more time to explore their hobbies and passions because their community provides care and service to complete everyday chores like laundry, meals and activities. Seniors at MorningStar get to experience more independence and less stress, giving them more time to make friends, spend time with family and explore the things that bring them joy. 

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

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

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

Some Bad Habits May Contribute to Cognitive Decline

As we age, more of us worry about ourselves or a loved one getting Alzheimer’s disease. Currently the disease does not have a cure but there are several medications that help mitigate symptoms, and a few more promising treatments on the horizon. That being said, it is still a disease none of us wish to experience.

Many people are aware of studies showing a good diet and exercise are not only good for heart health but also good for maintaining cognitive health. Additionally, Jessica Caldwell, a neuropsychologist and director of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement Prevention Center at the Cleveland Clinic, told AARP there are lesser-known things people can do to strengthen cognitive health. She explains it involves letting go of some bad habits and replacing them with healthier ones. 

One suggestion is to try and limit negative thoughts. A study reports “participants who repeatedly dwelled on negative thoughts had more amyloid and tau deposits in their brain, the biological markers of Alzheimer’s disease.” While we all have spent time thinking about bad things happening or that have happened, experts say repeatedly focusing on negative thoughts may put us at a greater risk for Alzheimer’s.  

Another easy way to lessen your risk for Alzheimer’s is to get vaccinated. Paul Schulz, M.D., a neurologist at McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, reported on a nationwide study, which found adults over 65 who received at least one influenza vaccination were 40 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Another study found a 25 to 30 percent reduction in Alzheimer’s for seniors who had a pneumonia vaccination. 

Other studies link an increase in the risk for Alzheimer’s to consuming sugary drinks (including fruit juices – better to eat the fruit). Researchers say it can lead to spiking blood sugar and an exaggerated insulin response, which may trigger chronic inflammation in the brain.  

If you are looking for luxury assisted living or memory care, MorningStar at West San Jose 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.

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 the area’s finest assisted living and memory care.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Source: aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2021/habits-that-hurt-brain-health.html

4 REASONS WHY SOCIALIZING IS IMPORTANT AT AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Moving into one of the retirement communities in Idaho Falls can trigger considerable stress. You have to deal with a new living arrangement in a smaller living space. Events such as meals follow a daily schedule that does not allow much flexibility. You have to get used to a caregiver visiting your apartment, as well as adapt to several rules that enhance the safety of all residents. Perhaps the greatest trigger of stress is the feeling of isolation.

Human beings thrive on social interactions that involve making connections. We are wired to pursue meaningful relationships that create a sense of purpose and fulfillment. As we grow older, our social networks begin to shrink, and hence, many of us experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. Moving into an assisted living facility in Idaho Falls can compound the feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Let’s review four amazing benefits of socialization at senior living centers in Idaho Falls.

Bolsters Mental Health

Of all the benefits of socialization at an assisted living facility in Idaho Falls, no other benefit has more of a positive impact than improving mental health. Feelings of loneliness and isolation often lead to the development of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It also can lead to cognitive decline because of fewer opportunities to utilize problem-solving skills. By engaging in one of the many group activities scheduled at retirement communities in Idaho Falls, you or a loved one stimulates the mind and fosters positive thoughts.

Improves Physical Health

Socializing improves physical health in several ways. It encourages regular exercise. Some of the group activities scheduled at MorningStar of Idaho Falls include physical exercises such as dancing, yoga, and tai chi. Socialization also promotes better nutrition, as our meals feature healthy dishes that enhance heart health and strengthen the immune system. Participating in group activities helps seniors improve their balance and coordination, which goes a long way toward preventing falls.

Provides Emotional Support

Loneliness and isolation can take a devastating toll on a senior’s emotions. Our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls understands the devastating toll loneliness and isolation have on emotions, which is why we provide a supportive environment for residents to connect with other residents and develop trusted friendships. Residents get to share their joys and concerns with other residents who understand their perspectives and experiences.

Develops Social Skills

Because we interact with other people less frequently as we get older, we tend to lose some of our social skills. The result is becoming less confident in social settings. At retirement communities in Idaho Falls, residents develop, or in some cases, rediscover social skills because of the many opportunities they have to interact with their peers. Participating in group activities, such as the ones regularly scheduled at our senior living center in Idaho Falls, helps our residents better engage in conversations.

MorningStar of Idaho Falls: A Great Place for Socialization

At our senior living center in Idaho Falls, our caregivers understand the importance of socialization for residents. This is why we create a welcoming and highly interactive environment that motivates our residents to socialize with each other. Learn more about our regularly scheduled group activities by scheduling a tour of our assisted living facility.

Living With Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

MCI (mild cognitive impairment) can be a precursor to dementia but does not always progress to dementia. Medical professionals report 10% to 40% of MCI cases go on to become dementia, and a good percentage of those become Alzheimer’s disease. On the positive side, research shows as many as 30-40% of people with MCI get better. As with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, there are no drugs to treat MCI but doctors say there are steps we can take to mitigate or minimize its effects. 

MCI is just as its name suggests. The impairment is mild and does not affect a person’s ability to care for themselves or take away their independence. Steps a person should take to protect their cognitive health include quitting smoking and moderating or eliminating alcohol consumption. If you do have hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol levels or diabetes, it is important to treat these conditions and manage them through medications, diet and healthy lifestyle habits. 

Other things you can do to thwart, delay or minimize the effects of MCI are to maintain a healthy weight and exercise, which is good for our brains as well as our bodies. Avoid junk food, highly processed foods and foods high in sodium; and reduce the amount of red meat in your diet. Isolation has also been linked to a higher risk for dementia, so it is important to stay social.   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose provides compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our community is tailored to serve the needs of our special residents from purposeful activities to nutritional, easy-to-eat foods.  Our job is to elevate and celebrate life by trying to connect with and nurture the individual each day, and to ensure they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity they deserve.  Please visit our website to learn more about our home, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.  

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

How to Better Describe Symptoms to Your Doctor

Although it is first-hand, it is not always easy to describe to a doctor what is going on regarding medical problems. Describing various symptoms is quite all-together different from getting the results of actual lab tests or a doctor’s opinion after a physical exam.  

Relating symptoms clearly can help narrow down the problem, and medical experts share some advice on how best to do it. They start by telling patients to skip the medical jargon and just use their own words to describe what they are feeling. 

Dr. Lisa Ravindra, an assistant professor in the department of internal medicine and a primary care physician at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, says, “Avoid using vague terms for timing like ‘for a while’ or stating that a symptom occurs ‘once in a while’ since these mean different things to different people.” She explains it is helpful to be as precise as possible when talking about symptoms including the amount of time you have had them for such as three days, or on and off for a week. Doctors say it is helpful to rate your pain from one to ten. 

Other helpful things you can do include using a blood pressure monitor to chart your blood pressure, and if you feel feverish, take your temperature. Keep track of other important symptoms such as sore throat, earache, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Be sure to mention unexpected weight loss, fatigue when doing things you typically do, or specific type and location of pain, i.e. a constant, sharp pain in the front of the right knee. If you have a chronic condition, doctors say it helps to keep a journal of symptoms to discuss with your doctor during your next visit. 

MorningStar at West San Jose is a senior living community offering older adults a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.  Amenities include a fitness center, healthy meals served restaurant-style, enrichment activities, and more. Remarkable for our beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we are most proud of our dedicated team who understand it is a privilege to serve seniors.  For trusted assisted living or memory care in San Jose, CA, please contact us or visit our website.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/slideshows/how-to-describe-medical-symptoms-to-your-doctor

Are You Looking for Assisted Living in San Jose?

Several studies have shown that most seniors who move into senior living communities say they prefer it to living alone.  A Place for Mom reports that “while many seniors want to age at home as long as they can, research shows that senior living communities may be the healthier option; especially after a spouse passes away.”  Also, seniors are often unaware of the wide range of services and amenities available at an independent or assisted living community.  

When a senior lives alone, they can become isolated, especially if they have stopped driving.  In addition, trying to maintain a house can be difficult for aging adults.  Housekeeping chores, preparing meals, and going up and down stairs can be challenging for the elderly.  Another problem faced by seniors who live alone is the fear of falling.  Having no one around to help in the case of an emergency can be scary as well as life-threatening. 

If you are looking for assisted living in San Jose, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at West San Jose.  Our beautiful community has 69 suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom floor plans. Apartments feature a kitchenette, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Weekly housekeeping and linen service is provided.

Our luxury community offers all the services, resort-style amenities, programs and activities 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 a bistro, theatre, salon and underground parking.  Other amenities include a life enrichment room, fitness center, courtyard, and a sky terrace as well as scheduled transportation. 

MorningStar at West San Jose offers the kind of senior living area families count on.  Along with assisted living, we provide memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us or 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 the finest senior living in San Jose, CA.

Helping a Friend Grieve

Many of us have watched a good friend go through the grieving process after losing a loved one and have been frustrated by not being able to do more to comfort them. Experts explain this is a common feeling and provide some suggestions to help.

One of the first things to remember is everyone experiences grief in their own way. Heather L. McGinty, assistant professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, explains grief triggers a range of emotions, sensations and behaviors and can be complex. 

A person’s emotions may swing from tearfulness to anger or denial, and as a friend, it can be hard to know what to say. Loneliness, betrayal, fear and acceptance are some of the other emotions grief brings up. Some people even experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach aches. 

If you want to help, grief counselors say to first make sure the person wants it; and recommend asking if they want the type of support you hope to offer, such as spending time with them. Some people are very private and prefer to grieve in their own way. The most important thing is to be supportive to their wishes and be prepared to listen rather than hand out advice. Also, be specific like letting them know you want to take them to lunch when they are ready, or bring over a meal, run errands or do some yard work. 

Experts say avoid telling the person you know how they feel. Again, everyone experiences grief differently. Even if you don’t understand the way the person is acting out their grief, be supportive not judgmental. Lastly, don’t say things like “everything happens for a reason” or “they are in a better place.” If you think they would benefit from professional support, be sure to encourage it.  

At MorningStar at West San Jose, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about exceptional senior living in San Jose, CA.

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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/ways-to-help-a-loved-one-grieve?

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in San Jose

After making the move into assisted living, many residents are surprised at how full their lives become.  And despite their fears about losing their independence by moving into a senior community, most are pleased to discover that by getting the assistance they need, they are more ready than ever to lead productive lives.   

At MorningStar at West San Jose, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  For your safety, each assisted living suite is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom and emergency call system and is smartly designed to accommodate the various needs of our residents.  Assisted living also includes housekeeping and laundry services, trash removal and full access to all onsite amenities.

Our holistic approach to senior living creates an atmosphere filled with love, care and compassion.  We also recognize that it is important for our residents to continue learning and contributing, which is why we offer such a wide range of meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage the mind, body, and spirit.

In addition, many elderly adults who live alone find meal prep to be difficult and often resort to frozen meals or fast food. When living at our beautiful community, you can sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors while you are served beautifully prepared meals restaurant-style.  Moreover, if you are a senior who no longer drives, we take care of that with scheduled transportation.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose offers memory care, respite stays and trial stays to see if we are a good fit.  Please contact us for more information.  Not only is our team happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our community as well as our company’s history, vision, and mission.

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

Age-Related Memory Loss or Dementia?

Experts report “at least half of those over age 65 say they are more forgetful than they were when they were younger, experiencing ‘senior moments’ of things like where they put things or recalling somebody’s name.” While several studies show as many as 40 percent of seniors suffer from some level of memory loss, this doesn’t necessarily mean Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. 

Doctors say we need to remember Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and there are some characteristics which separate age-related memory loss from dementia. One example is forgetting how to program your remote control or operate a piece of machinery after not doing it for a while. They stress this is common and typically not a cause for concern but forgetting how to get home or perform routine tasks may be a sign of a bigger problem. 

Another symptom of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases is forgetting what an object is used for or what it is. Someone with Alzheimer’s can forget they wear glasses or not recognize the glasses as their own. The same goes for forgetting names. A common problem is to forget a person’s name but a more serious problem is to forget easy words or replace them with something strange, making the person difficult to understand.

However, feeling you are forgetful may be cause for concern according to Dr. Barry Reisberg, director of the Fisher Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Resources Program at New York University Langone Medical Center. In a study in which Dr. Reisberg was involved, the findings showed “seniors with subjective memory complaints are, over many years, 4.5 times more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia than those who do not have such memory complaints.” Therefore, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any worries you may have.

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose offers specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our Reflections Neighborhood to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  Please visit our website for more information about our compassionate, loving memory care.  

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 assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

Source: alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/just-forgetful-or-is-it-dementia/

Understanding the Difference Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

If you are currently seeking assisted living care for a spouse or loved one, you may be considering an assisted living community or a skilled nursing facility. Both of these senior living options offer unique services and gaining a deeper understanding of these two choices will help you make an informed decision for your loved one. 

Assisted Living

Most assisted Living Facilities are designed to assist residents 62 years and older with the activities of daily living in a residential setting. Life enrichment teams and hospitality services are a big amenity offered in assisted living communities. This hospitality service plans and coordinates every activity and social gathering on our senior living campus. These teams keep seniors active in assisted living. 

Residents and their families gain peace of mind knowing trained care managers are there to help navigate changes in health. MorningStar Senior Living Portland also offers a secure neighborhood for the memory-impaired, making it easy for seniors to transition to memory care if necessary. 

Skilled Nursing

Once known as “nursing homes,” Skilled Nursing Facilities were popular at a time when there were few other options for senior care. Today, Skilled Nursing Facilities are generally more focused on short-term rehab over long-term care. This means they dedicate more of their space and resources to post-hospitalization rehabilitation. Their staff are typically RNs and CNAs, serving residents in fragile and declining health. For seniors who require complicated levels of care and deal with intense health concerns, Skilled Nursing Facilities may provide more attuned care to these individuals. 

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

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

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

Dealing With Grief

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 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 MorningStar at West San Jose 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 West San Jose is designed to provide seniors everything they want and need in a retirement home. Along with beautiful surroundings, an array of luxury amenities, hospitality services and five-star dining; we offer Personalized Service Plans for the activities of daily living (ADLs) to help maintain residents’ independence. For exceptional assisted living or memory care in San Jose, contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

The Move to an Assisted Living Community

No matter what age we are, moving can be a big deal. Whether as a high schooler changing schools, or a retiree embarking on a new chapter to an assisted living community, moving is a big deal. 

For older adults, a move to assisted living may include giving up a beloved family home. In this case, they probably have a whole house full of things and will need to downsize. That alone can be tough, as the person will most likely need to give up possessions they have had for years. For more on downsizing, the Internet offers a variety of suggestions to help you get started.  

MorningStar at West San Jose’s team understands every resident’s move is unique and recognizes it for what it is – a major lifestyle transition. This is why we approach each move-in with the utmost sensitivity, and sincerely strive to nurture a good relationship right from the start. We seek to reinforce the positive aspects of community life, and do all we can to help the person embrace their new adventure.

Once your family decides assisted living at MorningStar is a good fit, we request a deposit to secure your chosen suite. From there our “House to Home” process begins in earnest. This includes getting together vital information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move such as a medical assessment and a physician’s plan of care, along with other documentation.  

Practical advice from us includes recommending moving companies experienced in senior transitions. Furniture carts and dollies are available to borrow, if needed. We also offer packing tips and suggestions on the best items to bring. Most importantly we keep the lines of communication open as we know it is vital to a satisfactory experience. 

MorningStar at West San Jose’s assisted living is designed to support and engage residents’ mind, body and spirit. Our wide array of amenities, hospitality and senior care services, wellness programs and activities help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life. In addition, our beautiful community offers specialized memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in San Jose, CA.

Since 2003, MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in San Jose, CA.

The Importance of Personalized Care Options in Senior Living

Senior Living Communities that offer a personalized continuum of care allow residents to live in a comfortable and familiar environment throughout their senior years. As their needs change, seniors can receive changing and individualized care that suits them without the stress of relocating to a new community or care facility. 

One of the things that set good senior living communities apart from other retirement homes in Portland is prioritizing a personalized continuum of care for seniors. At MorningStar, every senior is unique with distinctive needs, preferences, and goals. 

Keep reading to understand the importance of personalized care options in senior living communities. 

We Value Your Independence

Individualized care plans boost and maintain a senior’s independence, no matter their care level. In assisted living, staff members and managers tailor their approach to meet each resident’s unique needs. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach to care, our team at MorningStar Assisted Living Portland works with each resident and their family to develop a care plan that is specific to their needs and preferences. This can include everything from assistance with daily tasks to medication management. 

Families Appreciate Personalized and Ongoing Care

Loved ones and family members play a crucial role in the decision-making process to find the right senior living community. Families want to be able to visit their loved ones in the same home and watch them grow, make friends and enjoy life in a healthy environment. MorningStar Retirement homes provide assurance that loved ones receive the care they need within the same community with an added sense of security for families.

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

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

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

MorningStar at West San Jose Offers Trusted Memory Care

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we offer residents a warm and welcoming home to safely age in place with 69 stylish suites for assisted living in a variety of floorplans and configurations. Fully equipped, all you need to bring are your furnishings and personal treasures; and yes, we are pet friendly. 

For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, we provide suites and care for individuals from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  While a secure area, our Reflections Neighborhood encourages independence with clear wayfinding and inviting common areas. For residents’ safety, suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Other amenities include housekeeping and laundry services as well as scheduled transportation for doctor’s appointments and special outings. 

Care in our Reflections Neighborhood begins with a high staff to resident ratio. All team members are trained in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach.  This training gives employees a better understanding of the disease and more tools for effective, compassionate treatments. In addition, residents receive daily health monitoring with access to licensed nurses and other third-party service providers.

Meals are attractively served, and tasty as well as nutritional. Many foods are easily eaten with fingers to accommodate those who may have trouble using a fork and knife. In addition, our wellness programs keep residents purposefully engaged and leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory loss.

Once a family decides MorningStar is a good fit, we start the process to learn as much as we can about your loved one’s background, talents and personal preferences using a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” This allows us to create a specialized, individualized service plan that calms or stimulates as each unique situation suggests.  Contact us for more information about compassionate and loving memory care in San Jose, CA.

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. 

Explore the Senior Living Care Options at MorningStar in Portland

When it’s time to start considering senior care options, it’s important to consider how needs may change over time. It’s difficult for seniors to acclimate to one community and then need to move if that community cannot accommodate changes in their health, behavior, or personality. 

Seniors may be concerned about how well a community can adapt to their changing needs over time. They often look for places that offer a range of care options that allow them to age in a place they feel comfortable. From independent living to assisted living and memory care, MorningStar Retirement Homes Portland offers a range of personalized living options for seniors throughout every stage of their lives. 

Here are some luxury-style senior living options for seniors in Portland: 

Independent Living

For seniors who are still active but looking for a more relaxing and fun retirement experience, independent living at MorningStar is the option of choice. In independent living, seniors live as they normally would, but will have more time for socialization, activities, hobbies, and truly enjoying their retirement. 

Assisted Living

At MorningStar, seniors can embrace changing needs and aging. Assisted living is designed for seniors who need a little extra care and attention to complete daily tasks and chores. These seniors still experience the amenities and activities available to independent living, but with more support if necessary. Assisted living provides seniors with adjustable levels of care that are personalized to their needs and health concerns. 

Memory Care

For seniors battling Alzheimer’s or dementia, memory care at MorningStar provides a safe and trusted home to peacefully enjoy. Holistic memory care provides overall support to seniors struggling with a memory loss diagnosis. There are also special memory care neighborhoods at MorningStar that are designed for the proper safety and care of seniors struggling with memory loss.   

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

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

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

Untreated Sleep Apnea Can Put a Person at Risk of Serious Medical Conditions

The US News & World Report says approximately 1 in 3 adults are believed to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). They explain the condition causes a person to momentarily stop breathing at intervals throughout the night and interrupting their sleep. 

Pulmonologist and section head of sleep medicine at National Jewish Health in Denver, Dr. Sheila Tsai, explains, “A person’s airway either partially collapses or completely closes (obstructs) during sleep.” She says episodes can be frequent throughout the sleep cycle and cause drops in oxygenation. While the person may only awake briefly as they struggle to breathe, their sleep is fragmented and non-restorative as it infers with REM, the deep, restful stage of sleep. 

Common causes of OSA are obesity and age, and The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine estimates as many as 80 percent of people suffering from OSA are undiagnosed. The condition typically causes the person to snore loudly, interrupted with gasps, hesitations and snorts. They may wake up feeling unrefreshed and sleepy during the day, or complain of headaches. OSA can additionally cause other sleep disorders to become worse like restless-leg syndrome and sleep walking.  

Doctors say OSA is a serious, but treatable condition and it is important to seek medical care. A sleep study or test done in a clinic setting or even at home is the best way to diagnose the condition. Untreated OSA can put a person at a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other problems.   

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

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

Source: health.usnews.com/conditions/sleep-apnea/articles/best-sleeping-positions-for-sleep-apnea?

Top 3 Benefits of Companion Living for Seniors

Living with a close friend or loved one in a companion senior living apartment is a great option for many seniors in retirement living. As we age, it’s important to socialize with people you feel close and connected with. Senior living that offers companion suites and senior living apartments encourages socialization and interaction with peers and friends. A trusted roommate eases the tension of moving to assisted living or a retirement home. 

Wise planners often choose MorningStar in advance of any need for personal care services, seeking a refreshing change of lifestyle including built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. We handle all the maintenance, inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping. Our Independent Living suites are equipped with their own washer/dryer and full kitchens for the meals you feel like preparing on your own or with a friend. 

Three benefits to companion living in a senior living community:

Affordability

Not only does companion living enhance a senior’s quality of life,it also extends savings. MorningStar offers Companion Living in all of our communities, where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in independent living, assisted living or memory care.

Prioritizing Safety

While MorningStar offers advanced safety measures within their communities, it’s still nice to know that there is someone with your loved one at all times. Companion living provides extra peace of mind to families who have a loved one in assisted living care. 

Easing the Transition

Moving to assisted living or independent retirement living is made simple with companion living. It’s reassuring to have someone we love by our side during big milestones in our lives. Companion living at MorningStar Assisted Living in Portland adds comfort to seniors and their families. 

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

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

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