Family Visits in Assisted Living: Planning and What to Know

Visits from family members are a cherished highlight for residents of assisted living facilities. Such interactions can boost emotional well-being and reinforce the bonds between family members. For those planning visits to locations like assisted living Portland, senior living Portland, or retirement home Portland, understanding how to make the most of these visits is essential for both the residents and their visitors.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is crucial when planning visits to an assisted living facility. It’s important to coordinate with the facility’s schedule to avoid conflicts with the resident’s meal times, therapy sessions, or other daily activities. Early coordination helps ensure that the visit occurs at a time when the senior is most alert and energetic, making the interaction more enjoyable for everyone involved.

What to Bring

Bringing a small gift or favorite snack can make the visit more enjoyable for your loved one. However, it’s essential to check with the facility beforehand about any dietary restrictions or policies regarding gifts. Personal items like photos or a favorite book can also spark conversations and help residents feel connected to their lives outside the facility.

Activities to Do During Visits

Plan activities that can be comfortably enjoyed within the confines of the facility. Many assisted living centers have common areas where families can play games, assemble puzzles, or engage in crafts together. Some facilities may also offer the use of private rooms where families can watch a movie or enjoy a meal together, making the visit feel more personal and private.

Respecting the Space

While visiting, it’s important for family members to respect the communal nature of the living environment. Keeping noise levels reasonable and being considerate of other residents who share the space are important. Always follow the guidelines set by the facility regarding visitation areas and times.

Effective Communication

Communication during these visits is key. Speak clearly and directly, especially if the senior has hearing difficulties. It’s also important to engage in meaningful conversations that encourage the senior to share their experiences and feelings. This can involve discussing family events, sharing news from home, or reminiscing about old memories, which can be particularly comforting.

Understanding the Emotional Impact

Visits can sometimes be emotional for both the resident and the family members. It’s normal for some seniors to feel a bit melancholic after visits, as it might remind them of the life they used to have. Family members should be prepared for possible mixed emotions and provide reassurance through their continued presence and support.

Planning and conducting a visit to a loved one in an assisted living facility like those in Portland requires thoughtful preparation and sensitivity to the needs and conditions of the elderly resident. By making visits enjoyable and comfortable, family members play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for their elderly loved ones.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING?

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

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

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

Cost

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

Care

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

Facility Design

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

Activities

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

Apartments

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

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

6 HOBBIES FOR SENIORS

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

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

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

Sports

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

Fitness Activities

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

Gardening

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

Cooking

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

Get Musical

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

Birdwatching

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

5 TIPS FOR BEGINNING BIRDWATCHERS

One of the goals of our retirement community in Idaho Falls is to keep residents active throughout the year. From holding social events to taking day trips to local natural wonders, MorningStar of Idaho Falls is the ideal place to call home for older adults who want to continue to live active lifestyles. One activity that flies under the radar is the popular activity called birdwatching. Idaho Falls is a prime location to capture the flights of a wide variety of bird species.

Let’s review five tips for beginning birdwatchers to get the most out of this fun activity.

Invest in High-Quality Binoculars

You are going to watch birds mostly through the lenses attached to a pair of binoculars. Investing in a high-quality pair of binoculars allows you to get big, crisp, and bright up-close images of the birds in action. Binoculars especially come in handy when you want to zero in on a nest to watch baby birds cry out for their mother. Although spending less than $100 for a pair of binoculars appeals to your sensibly frugal ways, consider spending as much as $300 to receive superior images of the birds that you watch.

Know How to Attract Birds

Although hiking around to find birds to watch appeals to your adventurous side, the most successful way to birdwatch is to attract a flock or two to visit your home. You can accomplish this by placing a bird feeder near the entrance to your apartment at our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls. Bird feeders come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but the most important element is what you put in a feeder for the birds to enjoy. Most birds love munching on sunflower seeds, which are readily available at both pet and grocery stores.

Capture the Moments

Binoculars help you get much closer to birds, but you can capture the moments for future viewing by investing in a still and/or video camera. Even using a sophisticated Smartphone can help you create a lifetime’s worth of memories of the birds that you watch. You can capture the majestic flight of an eagle, as well as shoot a flock of crows getting together for their daily meeting. Mounting a camera on a tripod helps you stabilize each shot.

Record What You See

Birds are creatures of habit, from returning to the same spot after every migration to feeding at the same field at the same time each day. As a beginner birdwatcher, you should record the activities of the birds that you watch for reference during upcoming years. You can write down your observations, but a more accurate description can be given by talking into a voice recorder.

Interact With Other Birdwatchers

Although you can develop a feeling of inner peace by watching birds on your own, the real joy of birdwatching comes from sharing your experiences with fellow birdwatchers. Making birdwatching a social event in addition to an educational event helps you gain insight into how other people approach this popular hobby. Joining a club that organizes bird watching expeditions is an effective way to make connections.

Another way to make connections while you birdwatch involves getting together with other residents of our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls. The mission “to honor, to value, to invest” has special relevance when it comes to the activities planned at MorningStar of Idaho Falls. Schedule a tour today to learn more about the activities scheduled at our senior living center in Idaho Falls.

WHAT IS ASSISTED LIVING FOR SENIORS?

Relocating is one of the most stressful events in life. You have to become acclimated to new surroundings, as well as make new friends. Relocation turns into a more stressful event when the move consists of a new home with a different environment. Such is the case for residents of an assisted living facility. Part of the stress generated is caused by fear of the unknown. At our senior living center in Idaho Falls, our staff removes the veil called fear of the unknown by explaining what assisted living is for seniors.

What is Assisted Living?

According to the Administration for Community Living, nearly 60 percent of older adults in the United States can expect to live in some type of long-term care environment. Assisted living represents the most common type of long-term care living arrangement, but most people do not understand what defines this type of retirement community in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

An assisted living environment is an arrangement for older adults who want to remain as independent as possible, but require non-medical assistance and help with the activities associated with daily living. A licensed caregiver helps an assisted living resident with activities associated with daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and maintaining healthy hygiene. Assisted living residents typically pay a flat monthly fee for renting an apartment, as well as an additional fee that is calculated according to the level of care provided by the assisted living facility.

Assisted living residents have access to common areas like the dining and entertainment rooms. Other common areas where residents interact with each other include a pool, a library, and an activities room. Retirement communities in Idaho Falls differ in the services offered, from basic daily meals and activities to luxurious accommodations that include bars and spas. Assisted living facilities in Idaho Falls typically have a staff on-site 24 hours a day, with an advanced security system to ensure the utmost safety for residents.

What Are the Benefits of an Assisted Living Facility?

An assisted living facility allows residents to continue living an independent lifestyle that is somewhat modified. A resident might live with a chronic health condition that requires monitoring, as well as live with memory loss and/or mobility issues. Residents do not have to worry about repair and maintenance issues, which they do have to worry about while living independently in a home or apartment. 

One of the greatest benefits of living at an assisted living facility in Idaho Falls is to prevent the development of loneliness and isolation. Many residents have lost a spouse and the ensuing period has caused them to feel alone, which often triggers negative mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Research data accumulated over decades of work indicates loneliness and isolation are bad for mental, cognitive, and physical health. The presence of other residents combined with opportunities to interact with other residents throughout each day helps residents maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Learn More About What is Assisted Living in Idaho Falls

At MorningStar of Idaho Falls, we offer all three services that are associated with senior living centers: Independent, assisted, and memory care. This makes us the ideal place for older adults to call home. Our mission “to honor, to value, to invest” showcases the commitment to Christian principles in the daily operation of our retirement community in Idaho Falls. Find out why MorningStar properties receive

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.

5 THINGS TO DO IN IDAHO FALLS

Once considered an afterthought on the way to Boise, Idaho Falls has morphed into one of the most popular tourist destinations west of Denver. The quaint, yet metropolitan city also is the ideal place for residents of retirement communities to call home.

A unique blend of art and culture, combined with a rich history, infuses Idaho Falls with a vibrant ambiance. Throw into the mix plenty of scenic vistas located nearby, and it is no surprise why our assisted living facility remains a popular lifestyle option for seniors from a wide variety of backgrounds.

What is there to do in Idaho Falls? Let’s find out.

Idaho Falls River Walk and Greenbelt

Covering more than five miles and surrounding both sides of the beautiful Snake River, the Idaho Falls, River Walk and Greenbelt highlights some of the most spectacular vistas in the entire area. The entire venue is meticulously landscaped and kept clean throughout the year. You can expect to encounter avid cyclists, as well as new mothers pushing strollers. This venue is considered a vital resource for professionals who commute between home and downtown.

The River Walk connects to many of the most popular tourist attractions found in Idaho Falls.

Museum of Idaho

One of the venues that the River Walk passes nearby is the Museum of Idaho. Located near the bustling entertainment district of the downtown area, the Museum of Idaho features more than 25,000 artifacts and specimens specific to this region of the United States. The artifacts and specimens emphasize the importance of the state’s history, biology, and cultural impacts on the country. 

Some of the permanent exhibits include one-room schoolhouses, the original inhabitants of Idaho, and the well-documented journey of Lewis and Clark.

Idaho Falls Zoo

One of the most popular scheduled events on the activities calendar at our senior living center in Idaho Falls is a trip to the Idaho Falls Zoo. Located in Tautphaus Park, which is one of the oldest and largest parks in Idaho Falls, the city’s zoo is full of attractions for the entire family. Funland Amusement Park is located nearby to provide an outlet for kids to release their energy on waterslides and miniature carnival rides.

The most popular zoo attractions include the homes of lions, penguins, and snow leopards.

Giant Eagle Waterfall Nest

Idaho Falls hosts one of the largest eagle monuments in the United States. Located at an intersection near the Walmart Supercenter on Utah Avenue, this monument for eagles is easy to get to from the River Walk. The huge statue pays homage to two eagles tending to their roost on top of native Idaho rock. A Mountain lion lurks just below the two enshrined eagles.

The artist who came up with the drawing for the monument, Vic Payne, named the piece The Protector.

Sportsman Park

This attraction is accessible only from the River Walk. It is a small island park surrounded by the Snake River. Sportsman Park is located at the site where the first bridge spanned the Snake River, which opened up eastern Idaho to commercial opportunities from business interests operating in nearby states. The stunning Japanese Friendship Garden commemorates the relationship developed between Idaho Falls and its sister city of Tokai-Mura, Japan.

The mission “to honor, to value, to invest” makes our assisted living facility in Idaho Falls the premier place for seniors to call home. Discover more about the wonders of Idaho Falls by scheduling a comprehensive tour of our senior living center.

TOURING ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES: WHAT TO LOOK FOR

You have performed diligent research, which has helped you narrow down the choices for an assisted living facility in Portland, Oregon to just a few options. The decision on where your loved one should make the transition from an independent lifestyle to a lifestyle in which at least some of life’s responsibilities fall on the shoulders of a licensed caregiver is not an easy one to make. Each of the options on your shortlist of candidates offers several benefits that make the senior living communities a good fit for your loved one.

Now, the time has arrived to see eachassisted living facilityup close to make one of the most important decisions you can expect to ever make. You need to schedule a tour to learn more about the senior living communities on your shortlist.

Let’s review what you should look for during anassisted living communitytour.

Observe How the Caregivers Treat Residents

Perceptive observation skills come in handy when touring a senior care facility, especially when it comes to determining how the staff treats residents. You should be subtle when observing the staff, with an emphasis on looking for signs that caregivers are overwhelmed with responsibilities. Signs of an overwhelmed team of caregivers include frustration and agitation.

An overwhelmed team of caregivers might indicate a high staff-to-resident ratio.

Resident Feelings

You should go right to the source to discover how residents feel about living at the senior living facility. Expect staff members to be effusive in their praise of the community, but you might find at least a few residents have some negative things to say. TheAARP recommends asking several questionsposed to residents that help you understand the type of living environment, such as questions that ask residents what they like and dislike about living in the community.

The Extent of Social Interactions Among Residents

One of the most difficult transitions for a senior moving into an assisted living facility is leaving behind close friends and in return, trying to build new friendships with other seniors. Walk through the common dining area, as well as stop by an activities room to learn more about the extent of social interactions among the residents of a senior living facility.

Safety Features

Assisted living facilities must comply with strict state. local, and federal laws that mandate the establishment of safety and security features at assisted living facilities. You want to ensure every senior living facility on your shortlist goes beyond the minimum standards required by law for implementing safety and security procedures, especially if your loved one requires memory care services in a new living environment. Extra safety features such as walk-in showers and handrails installed throughout a facility indicate a facility takes protecting its residents seriously.

Schedule a Tour TodayOne important suggestion concerning a tour at a senior living facility: Take a formal tour, but also deviate from the tour schedule by touring other parts of a senior living facility on your own. The caregivers at MorningStar want you to gain the peace of mind required to choose our senior living facility for your loved one’s new home. Schedule a tour of MorningStar at Laurelhurst to learn more about ourassisted living facility in Portland.

MAKE MOVING TO AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY EASIER: DON’T PACK ANY UNNECESSARY ITEMS

You have made several difficult decisions concerning the transition your loved one faces by moving from a home environment into an assisted living facility. After choosing the senior living facility that your loved one soon calls home, you face additional tough decisions that include which of your loved one’s possessions to bring into our assisted living facility in Portland, Oregon. The decision is especially hard because your loved one does not want to part with any of the belongings, many of which hold memories from early in your loved one’s life.
Let’s see how you can make moving to an assisted living facility easier by not packing any unnecessary items.

Ask for Help

This does not have to be a project for just one person. Enlist the support of other family members and even your loved one’s close friends to ease the burden you face regarding packing for a move into a senior living facility. Support can come in many forms that include helping decide which items to leave behind, as well as selling and donating the possessions your loved one does not bring into an assisted living facility.

Adapt to the Size of the New Living Space

Since assisted living and memory care apartments typically are much smaller than a family home, the amount of space in your loved one’s new apartment dictates what you can move into it. Ask the assisted living facility in Portland, OR for a copy of the apartment floorplan, and then measure each large item to determine what can go and what must stay. Try to maximize the limited apartment space by bringing along multifunctional furniture such as an ottoman.

Follow the Four Box Rule

Popular decorating shows present a proven method used to downsize and declutter living spaces. Place four large boxes in the largest room in your loved one’s current home. Label each box as keep, trash, donate, and sell. Work with your loved one by picking up an item, and then deciding which box the item should go in for the big move. Getting your loved one involved in the process should make it easier to separate every personal possession. If you have a difficult time deciding on a specific item, set it aside and return to it later.

Leave Behind Duplicate Items

The limited space of your loved one’s new apartment makes bringing along duplicate items tough to do. Although your loved one should have more than one set of towels and bed linens, you can leave behind other types of duplicate items such as clothes, housewares, and decorative items. In fact, the assisted living facility where your loved one moves might have restrictions on the type of decorative items allowed in a room.

Be Positive

The caregivers from MorningStar at Laurelhurst encourage you to be positive during the difficult transition period your loved one faces. Spread positive energy by keeping the mood light and positive while deciding which of your loved one’s possessions should be a part of the new living environment. If an item holds particularly fond memories and your loved one refuses to part with it, be sensitive while at the same time attempting to resolve the roadblock in the moving process.Discover more about how to make moving into an assisted living community easier by contacting one of the compassionate caregivers at our senior living facility.

LOOKING FOR ASSISTED LIVING IN PORTLAND, OR?

Are you looking for an assisted living facility in Portland, OR? Although assisted living is a common option for seniors, the decision to make the transition to a different home environment is often difficult to do. The key is to find the right senior living facility that eases the angst triggered by the most significant life transition.

At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, we offer three different lifestyle options to accommodate the needs of your senior loved one. Many of our residents opt for the independent living lifestyle, which closely mirrors the type of lifestyle seniors enjoy in their own homes. Many of our residents that start out living an independent lifestyle at our senior living facility eventually transition into an assisted living arrangement. MorningStar at Laurelhurst is also renowned for its highly-rated memory care lifestyle option.

Let’s review four tips when looking forassisted living in Portland, Oregon

Affordability

Assisted living can place a tremendous strain on finances, whether you, your senior loved one, or the combination of the two pay for the cost of housing and the appropriate services. You should avoid falling in love with a facility that is outside of the family budget. However, you should not skimp on services, especially healthcare services when it comes toassisted living in Portlandfor your senior loved one.

Interact with the Staff

You want the staff at an assisted living facility to treat your senior loved one with the same meticulous care that you provide in a home environment. At our senior living facility, we espouse the Christian principles of our founder and CEO, which encompasses providing compassionate care while serving the needs of the community as well. Our culture of radiance overflows with loving caregivers who build a close rapport with every one of our residents.

MorningStar at Laurelhurst encourages you to spend time with a few caregivers to discover exactly what we mean by a culture of radiance.

Location, Location, Location

It is a mantra frequently mentioned in business plans. Where a business is located has a direct impact on attracting customers. For a senior housing facility such as MorningStar at Laurelhurst, location plays a significant role in the decision-making process for choosing the best new home for senior loved ones. We are conveniently located in the heart of greater Portland, Oregon where bustling urban life meets the serene ambiance of suburban lifestyles.

To remain close to a senior loved one, you must choose anassisted living facilitythat is within a reasonable drive of your home.

Quality of Memory Care

If a senior loved one suffers from the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or some other form of dementia, you want to search for senior housing that specializes in providing the finest memory care services. MorningStar at Laurelhurst is renowned throughout Portland and the Great Northwest for providing world-class memory care services. We dedicate 32 of our 83 suites to residents that require some level of memory care support. Establishing set routines and interacting with residents with the utmost empathy represent two important characteristics of our memory care program.

Connect with one of our resident services representatives to discover why MorningStar at Laurelhurst might be the perfect place for your senior loved one to call home.

TIPS WHEN SPENDING TIME WITH YOUR SENIOR LOVED ONE

Seniors living at assisted and memory care facilities often suffer from mental health issues that are a direct result of isolation. Lack of interactions with other people can trigger the signs of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. One of the most effective ways to prevent the development of mental health issues caused by a lack of social interactions is for loved ones to spend time with their seniors. However, spending an hour a week with a loved one at an assisted living facility in Portland is not enough of a commitment.

Let’s review six tips for spending time with your loved one at a senior living facility in Portland.

Bring Along a Pet

Numerous studies have documented the mental and physical medicinal benefits delivered by domesticated animals such as cats and dogs. Interacting with a pet should boost your loved one’s mood, while at the same time alleviating the stress that is often triggered by living in an assisted living facility. MorningStar at Laurelhurst offers a pet-friendly environment, which includes allowing our residents to keep their furry friends with them during their stays.

Field Trip

Although MorningStar at Laurelhurst offers residents a jam-packed events and activities calendar, we encourage loved ones to plan field trips with their seniors to venues located in the greater Portland, Oregon metro area. Whether you visit a museum or enjoy a leisurely lunch, interacting with your senior loved one outside of our facility represents a great way to spend quality time together.

Cooks Meals

Nothing promotes a social ambiance more than cooking a meal with a loved one. Cooking a meal is the perfect time to have conversations that range from serious to much more informal discussions about topics. You can cook meals with your senior in one of the kitchens we have constructed for each room or have your senior loved one over to cook a dinner for the entire family.

Board Games

Boredom is one of the most common challenges for seniors to overcome at assisted living and memory care facilities in Portland. You can help alleviate boredom by engaging your senior loved one during the playing of board games. Research studies indicate both puzzles and board games keep seniors mentally alert, which can prevent the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms. Even better, play a board game such as Monopoly that includes your senior loved one’s new friends at our senior living facility.

Nature Walks

Another way to enhance the mood of a senior loved one is to interact with nature. Going on nature walks with a senior loved one is just what the doctor ordered to mitigate the negative impacts of stress and anxiety. You can go on a walk that leads to a popular bird-watching destination one day, and then another day mix it up a bit by walking to a prime location for stargazing.

Movie Night

As we grow older, one of the lifestyle choices that we make involves watching our favorite movies and television shows. Although movie night is a popular activity planned at senior living facilities in Portland, you can take it to the next level by spending time with your senior loved one by watching movies together. Cap off movie night with a shared snack to encourage conversation. MorningStar’s assisted living and memory care facilities across the United States have earned the reputation for serving seniors with unbridled passion. Discover what makes MorningStar at Laurelhurst the premier home for seniors by connecting with one of our professionally trained representatives.

5 THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN LOOKING FOR AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

An assisted living facility is the perfect lifestyle transition for seniors who require some help with daily responsibilities, but as a general rule, function independently in a home-like environment. At our senior living facility in Portland, Oregon, caregivers help residents with daily activities such as housekeeping, preparing meals, and taking medications in the right doses and at the right times.

If you have decided an assisted living facility is the best option for a loved one, you have several factors to consider before deciding which facility is the rightassisted living community

Location

Location is an important factor to consider because you want to be close to the loved one making an important lifestyle transition. A short drive should be all it takes to visit your loved one. The location also matters as it concerns local laws that mandate assisted living facilities follow certain regulations. For example, some states limit the types of medical services provided to assisted living residents.

Size

Assisted living facilities in Portland measure size by the number of beds, which influences the quality of care given to residents. Although the size of a senior living facility is often an issue of preference, larger facilities typically offer more services and amenities, such as memory care and swimming pools. Another factor to consider regarding size is the staff-to-resident ratio. You want to ensure the facility under consideration has enough staff to take care of residents.

Services

As we get older, we tend to require more types of services, especially when it comes to healthcare. Dining, exercise, and wellness programs represent common services offered by senior living facilities in Portland. Your loved one should have access to healthcare services that match the senior’s unique needs. The types of different healthcare services offered by the best assisted living facilities in Portland include programs for managing depression, diabetes, and heart health, as well as a program that addresses the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Activities

Active seniors tend to have fewer mental and physical health issues. The events and activities calendar of every senior living facility under consideration should include both mentally and physically stimulating activities. Examples of mental stimulation start with board games such as chess and checkers. Art classes, musical performances, and trips to local cultural venues also stimulate the mind. Physical activities can include golf, nature walks, and cultivating a garden.

Amenities

All factors considered equal, the number and types of amenities often separate the best option for an assisted living facility in Portland from the rest of the competition. The most popular senior living facilities in Portland offer swimming pools, computer rooms, and community entertainment centers. The number of onsite shopping options also is important for a senior who does not drive an automobile.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Laurelhurst, our team of licensed caregivers goes the extra mile to ensure each of our residents receives the highest quality of care. We have developed an operational foundation based on valuing our seniors by recruiting caregivers who encourage independent living while also showing empathy for the struggles many of our residents face daily. Connect with one of our representatives to learn more about our senior living facility in Portland, Oregon.

5 More Questions You Should Always Ask When Considering an Assisted Living Facility

When you are searching for an assisted living facility for a loved one, it is important to ask the right questions. You want to be sure that the facility you choose is the best possible option for your loved one’s individual needs.

Here are 5 more questions you should always ask when considering an assisted living facility:

6. What activities are offered? 

When considering an assisted living facility, it is important to ask about their activities program. Ask what types of activities are offered, such as exercise classes, arts and crafts, or educational lectures. You should also inquire about the availability of field trips or special events. This will give you an idea of the quality of life your loved one can expect at the facility.

7. What is the food like? 

The food provided at an assisted living facility is an important factor to consider. Ask about the variety and quality of food available, as well as menu options. Inquire about the meal delivery system, such as room service or group dining. Additionally, ask if special dietary requirements can be accommodated.

8. What are the visiting hours? 

When selecting an assisted living facility, ask about the visiting hours. Make sure that visiting hours are flexible and that family members and friends can visit during reasonable times. This will ensure that your loved one can still have regular visits with friends and family.

9. What is the cost? 

When considering an assisted living facility, inquire about the cost. Ask if there are any fees in addition to the monthly payment, such as incidentals or additional services. You should also ask if there are any discounts or special payment plans available.

10. What is the facility’s policy on accepting new residents? 

Finally, ask about the facility’s policy on accepting new residents. Inquire about any medical or financial requirements and determine if the facility has space for new residents. This will help you understand the process for gaining admission to the facility for your loved one. 

When you are searching for an assisted living facility for a loved one, it is essential to ask the right questions. Asking the 10 questions outlined in this blog and our previous blog will help you narrow down your search and make sure you select the perfect assisted living facility. Be sure to ask all the important questions, and you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best possible care.

We proudly provide the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, Portland OR’s MorningStar at Laurelhurst may be your answer.

5 Questions You Should Always Ask When Considering an Assisted Living Facility

When you are searching for an assisted living facility for a loved one, it is important to ask the right questions. You want to be sure that the facility you choose is the best possible option for your loved one’s individual needs.

Here are 5 questions you should always ask when considering an assisted living facility:

1. What are the facility’s living options? 

When looking into assisted living facilities, you should always ask what type of living options are available. Each facility will have a different selection of apartments and suites, ranging from studios to one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. In addition, some facilities offer shared living spaces. You should also inquire about the amenities and services each level of living space provides, such as housekeeping, linen services, and meal options. Lastly, it is important to ask about safety and mobility features, such as special grab bars, alarms in the bathrooms, or walk-in showers.

2. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

When evaluating an assisted living facility, one of the most important questions to ask is what the staff-to-resident ratio is. This will give you an idea of the level of care and attention each resident receives. Ask if the facility has a full-time registered nurse on staff. Additionally, you should inquire about the services offered and the regularity of check-ins. Ensure that the staff-to-resident ratio is in line with the resident’s individual needs.

3. What are the staff’s qualifications?

When considering an assisted living facility, it is essential to ask about the qualifications of the staff. Inquire about their experience and training in providing care, as well as the types of services they can provide. It is important that the staff is qualified to meet the special needs of your loved one, such as medication administration or dementia care. If a staff member does not meet the qualifications necessary for your loved one, you may want to consider another facility.

4. What are the facility’s security measures? 

Safety is a top concern for many families when selecting an assisted living facility for their loved one. You should inquire about the safety measures in place, such as 24-hour security staff or video monitoring systems. Additionally, ask about the procedure for handling any emergencies. Ensure that the facility has the necessary precautions in place to ensure the safety of your loved one.

5. What is the facility’s approach to care? 

When selecting an assisted living facility, you should ask about the facility’s approach to providing care. Ask what services they offer, such as medication management, housekeeping, or transportation. Be sure to ask if there is a care plan in place and if the staff works one-on-one with the resident and their family. This will help ensure that the facility provides the necessary level of care and meets the individual needs of your loved one. 

We proudly provide the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, Portland OR’s MorningStar at Laurelhurst may be your answer.