When to Get More Care for a Loved One Living With Dementia

A Place for Mom’s website explains how many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia can live independently with or without the help of in-home caregivers or family members. However, they also stress there may come a time when the disease progresses to a stage where the person’s safety and physical well-being is in jeopardy and more care is needed. 

As a person with Alzheimer’s may have good days and bad, it can be hard to tell if they would be better served in a memory care community. Experts say signs include: has their appearance changed? Do they look unkempt and have they lost weight due to forgetting to eat? Do they appear agitated and confused? Have you noticed changes in mood, personality or routine?  

Your loved one’s healthcare provider can help you decide if it is time for memory care. Dr. Philip Branshaw, an internal medicine specialist in Batavia, Illinois, says, “When talking about memory care . . . I’ll center the talk around [the person’s] ability to perform their activities of daily living,”

A Place for Mom says to gauge a senior’s abilities and safety, ask if they:

• Get lost on routes they take frequently, such as going to the grocery store or taking a walk around the neighborhood

• Are forgetting to eat or drink

• Are forgetting to take their medication appropriately

• Are struggling to bathe regularly or get dressed as usual

• Had a fall or been to the emergency room recently

• Are not caring for a pet properly

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose provides compassionate memory care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic approach to care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  Beginning with dedicated caregivers to activities, programs and meals tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  Please see our website for more information and to set up a tour.

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 retirement 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.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/is-it-time-for-memory-care

Top 3 Reasons Seniors Consider Retirement Homes in Portland

Sometimes the tasks and chores of everyday life become too much. Seniors can often feel out of touch with their communities and struggle to keep up with daily tasks in the same way they used to. Keeping up with a home, chores, grocery shopping, bills and appointments can become overwhelming for seniors. This is why seniors and their families consider retirement homes in Portland that offer seniors a relaxing way to live out their retirement. 

While it’s true that not every senior needs daily assistance with activities and routines, seniors still consider retirement homes and senior living communities for the following reasons: 

1. Aging Comfortably. Seniors enjoy a stress-free environment at retirement homes in Portland. Assisted living and senior living options give seniors more time to enjoy the things they love without worrying about the stress of their home, chores, car maintenance and other burdensome tasks. In MorningStar Senior Living Portland, seniors get to explore their community more freely while making friends and lasting memories. 

2. Feeling Safe and Valued. Aging seniors may struggle with their mobility and need extra help getting around safely. If their homes or living arrangements are cluttered, this can pose an added safety risk. MorningStar Retirement Homes Portland maintains orderly communal spaces and takes added steps to promote safety and minimize fall risks. Senior safety is valued at MorningStar through our skilled and empathetic staff who are dedicated to supporting seniors in our community. 

3. Staying social. There are monthly activities that seniors look forward to at MorningStar Senior Living Portland. Activities like group games, holiday parties, cook-outs and group outings keep things exciting for seniors in assisted living communities. Independent living seniors also enjoy co-mingling with their community at MorningStar and make lasting friendships and bonds.

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. 

Retirement Homes in Portland: Cost and Affordability

Like anything, we need to weigh the pros and cons of making big-cost purchases. Senior living, retirement homes, and assisted living can often be financially concerning for families. Seniors and their families want to be aware of the costs associated with senior living in communities, including any monthly fees, additional services or costs, and any potential cost increases in the future.All-inclusive senior living is one of the best financial choices for retirement home options in Portland. When it comes to paying for assisted living care or a senior retirement home, there are financial resources available beyond retirement savings and investments. Explore some of the financial options and affordability for seniors looking for retirement homes in Portland.

Affordable Senior Living Options in Portland Through Elderlife Financial Services

To help you explore options, MorningStar has partnered with Elderlife Financial Services whose agents are here to offer education on the financial resources potentially open to you in paying for independent living, assisted living, or memory care. MorningStar can provide more information and support in any of the following situations:

Veteran Benefits. Veteran Benefits, such as “Aid & Attendance” is a tax-free pension paid directly to the qualified veteran or spouse and can cover some costs for Assisted Living. The monthly benefits are subject to change annually, so check in with your retirement community to get the proper estimate.

Selling a Private Home. The equity built up in a private home is typically a retiree’s largest asset, making the proceeds from selling extremely helpful when transitioning to a senior community. This sale can potentially pay for most, if not all, senior care upfront.

Long Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance helps pay for senior care and protect personal assets by covering expenses up to the amounts set forth in the policy. LTC insurance pays for a variety of services in senior communities and can offer care options that may not be covered through the federal subsidies of Medicare and Medicaid.

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.

Rediscover These 3 Hobbies and Interests in Senior Living Near You

Wise seniors and families choose the best independent senior living Portland, OR has to offer. If you are seeking a refreshing lifestyle change, built-in companionship, predictable costs, exciting activities, and new hobbies and interests, retirement homes like MorningStar Retirement Communities can help you age comfortably. By rediscovering these 3 hobbies and interests in senior living near you, you can experience more of what life has to offer without the stress and anxiety.

Exercise

Before senior living, seniors remark on how busy their lives used to be. Living in their home or with family, these seniors didn’t have time to fully enjoy the things they loved. In senior living, you can make time for exercise, daily walks, swimming, hiking, and working out. Retirees in senior living Portland can enjoy access to dedicated exercise rooms and gyms, providing the perfect environment to pursue their health goals.

Gardening

Gardening can seem daunting for seniors who are already balancing chores, errands, and changes in mobility. Seniors in Portland retirement homes experience gardening as not just a hobby, but a therapeutic and fulfilling experience. Gardening and community-maintained gardens allow seniors in senior living Portland to nurture vibrant flower beds and vegetable gardens in a supportive and nurturing environment that is free of worry.

Board Games

It is hard to justify a board game night when your life is full of errands and chores around the house. Many residents in senior living Portland enjoy playing board games and hosting game nights together. The lively comradery seniors experience in senior living by playing easygoing games and activities makes life more fulfilling and exciting.

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.

Tips for Connecting with Grandchildren In Retirement Homes

Many seniors worry about their connection with their family when they move to senior living. Even the best senior living communities may feel challenging for seniors who are trying to stay connected with their grandchildren. Regardless of age, distance, or lifestyle changes, MorningStar Retirement Homes offers seniors tips for connecting with grandchildren. Exploring the amenities and support systems available in senior living Portland provides seniors with a fulfilling and healthy retirement experience for themselves and their families.

Sharing Experiences

The best connections happen from sharing experiences. Exploring the many amenities your senior living community has to offer increases topics for you to discuss with your family and grandchildren. If your grandchild is a movie fanatic, watching a movie they love will keep you connected by giving you a shared experience.

When grandchildren visit your retirement home, be mindful of the things they enjoy and what you all share in common. Sharing a meal of favorite foods, doing a shared activity, or completing a craft together are great ways to connect.

Utilize Technology

Our children and grandchildren have grown up in a technologically advanced world. Many of the ways they connect with their friends are through cell phones, social media, and other forms of technology.

While you may not be the most savvy with technology, start small with weekly or monthly video chats on a smartphone or laptop. Texting may also be an easy way to communicate regularly.

Senior Living Portland: A True Home to Comfortably Age in Place

If you want to stay close to your friends, family, and grandchildren, explore retirement homes near you. MorningStar at Laurelhurst offers unrivaled assisted living Portland seniors are sure to favor. Offering inspired retirement living, our community is situated in the historic Laurelhurst District where long-time residents can continue to comfortably live in familiar surroundings or near loved ones.

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.

The Benefits of Regular Check-ups for Seniors in Retirement Homes

Regular trips to your doctor are always important. For seniors, visiting a healthcare provider is even more necessary. Diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes are common concerns for seniors. These health issues are more prevalent with age. Often, seniors do not know they are ill until a disease has progressed into dangerous territory. Regular checkups with a doctor encourage healthy senior living. Find out how seniors can benefit and stay healthy by exploring the best clinical services for senior living Portland has to offer. 

Rounding Physicians

In most retirement communities there are rounding physicians who offer residents wellness exams by appointment. These medical providers include MDs, PAs and ARNPs as well as specialists in dentistry, podiatry, and wound care. Discover the numerous advantages of senior living Portland has to offer, from top-notch healthcare services to vibrant community activities.

Successful Aging

At MorningStar, we define wellness as a comprehensive, holistic strength. Whether in clinical matters or life enrichment, we see wellness as a dynamic process of change and growth that optimizes every aspect of a resident’s life. This is why you will find the most trusted senior living Portland can offer. You can experience successful aging in our retirement homes due to healthcare initiatives and support. 

Medication Management 

If a senior finds themself ill or battling a difficult disease like arthritis or diabetes, MorningStar senior living communities offer medication management. This type of health care provides trusted support for seniors and their families. Medication management includes ordering and supervising the administration of medication. 

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. 

Healthy Eating Options for Seniors in Assisted Living

We all know that making healthy food options benefits our bodies, but did you know our food choices impact our brain health, too? Seniors need to spend extra care making healthy food choices. When an elderly family member struggles with cognitive decline, they may be unable to make these choices themselves. 

So far, no scientific evidence exists that certain foods can prevent Alzheimer’s disease or age-related cognitive decline. However, caring for your brain health through your diet is still essential. MorningStar at Laurelhurst offers Assisted living options that encourage healthy eating in their  “BrainWise” program. 

Live a Healthy Life in Assisted Living 

It’s easy to make healthy eating choices at MorningStar Retirement Communities. Our assisted living dining experience is inspired by the belief that diet is the centerpiece of personal wellness. Food is a healing medicine unlike any other. “BrainWise” is a lifestyle at MorningStar where we prioritize using ingredients known to support brain health. Superfoods, like acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and dark greens, supply your brain with vitamin K, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants. 

Our brains utilize fats to work properly. Natural fats found in SuperFoods are proven to nourish, protect, and enhance the performance of our brain cells. Next time you’re dining with our executive chefs in assisted living at MorningStar, ask for the salmon, avocado toast, or a salad made with olive oil dressing and nuts. These ingredients are high in natural fats that encourage brain health and are abundant in our “BrainWise” program at MorningStar. 

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.

Tips for Reducing Sugar Intake for Seniors

Since processed foods, artificial sweeteners, and sugary desserts have become more common, the amount of sugar Americans consume each day has steadily risen over the past few decades. This is especially true and worrisome for seniors. Because of medications, or the changing taste preferences over time, it may be difficult for seniors to know how much sugar they are consuming daily. At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, we believe it is important to advocate for the health of seniors. Through producing heart-healthy meals rich in whole fruits and vegetables, our retirement homes in Portland encourage the reducing added sugars in seniors’ snacks and meals. 

Consuming too much sugar leads to debilitating health conditions like obesity and diabetes. Seniors living alone may consume many processed and fast foods as they become older and everyday activities like cooking and grocery shopping become more difficult. Free sugars, or added sugar, in processed meals and other foods, are the main perpetrators that contribute to many Americans overindulging in empty calories unknowingly. If you believe this has become an issue for your senior parent or loved one, consider an assisted living community with executive chefs dedicated to senior health and wellness who combats the habit of consuming processed meals and beverages. 

Not all sugars are bad sugars. Sugar found in fruit is highly beneficial, especially for seniors. If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, consider a diet high in whole fruits and vegetables. The added fiber in these foods aids in digestion and a healthy gut microbiome while still delivering rich tastes. 

A wide range of processed foods, such as condiments, salad dressings, canned beverages, smoothies, and dairy products contain more sugar than we may think. While consuming these in moderation is fine, it is important to be mindful of the hidden sugars within these processed goods. Making salad dressings and smoothies from scratch greatly limits the amount of added sugar. Our Chefs at MorningStar Senior Living are trained in how best to modify menus and recipes to accommodate diets and changing needs to produce homemade, healthier options of the foods you love.

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

At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, our commitment to the well-being of our assisted living residents is unwavering. 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. Luxury amenities, hospitality services, and wellness programs are thoughtfully crafted to 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, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Portland, Oregon offers. 

Explore the Newest Retirement Home in Portland

Celebrate the exceptional new senior living community in service to Portland seniors at MorningStar at Laurelhurst. With modern amenities, state-of-the-art safety features, and trendy activities, MorningStar at Laurelhurst has created retirement homes that excel in senior care and support in a resort-style atmosphere. Families seeking new retirement homes in the Laurelhurst district of Portland need to look no further than MorningStar at Laurelhurst for exceptional care, compassion, and support.

MorningStar at Laurelhurst offers a continuum of senior care services that include independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Portland, Oregon. Here, you’ll find luxury-style services that inspire and delight while keeping residents safe and healthy. Our wellness programs meet personalized care to create a strong sense of community where each resident is known and celebrated for who they are.

 Whether physical, intellectual, spiritual, or social, our Life Enrichment Teams present creative ways to stay active and productive. There are bible study groups, crafting endeavors, low-intensity group workouts, gardening clubs, and book clubs, among others, that you can explore at MorningStar. 

Every detail of our thoughtfully designed community reflects the vintage charm of the surrounding homes, lush greenery, and eclectic vibes, providing an ambiance that soothes the soul. Enchanting floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light while inviting outdoor courtyards beckon residents to connect with nature.

Our new and highly trusted security features keep families and loved ones at ease. Our buildings are designed for safe routing and easy access to communal rooms and dining halls. For our residents with memory impairment in assisted living and memory care, we have integrated the revolutionary SafelyYou technology, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect and prevent falls, offering an extra layer of peace of mind for families.

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

At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, our commitment to the well-being of our assisted living residents is unwavering. 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. Luxury amenities, hospitality services, and wellness programs are thoughtfully crafted to 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, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Portland, Oregon offers.

The Benefits of A Person-Centered Approach to Assisted Living

We all deserve the autonomy to decide how we live our lives and what help we do and do not need to complete everyday tasks. This want for independence and individuality does not diminish with age. If you have an elderly parent or loved one, you’ll know this intensifies. Seniors who need a little extra assistance with daily living deserve to express their personal preferences, make choices, and participate in activities that are meaningful to them. At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, we believe seniors deserve a person-centered approach to assisted living. This means seniors in our retirement homes receive an empathetic and holistic approach to assisted living that improves their quality of life and independence. 

At our senior living community in Portland, a person-centered approach to assisted living places seniors at the heart of their care. A person-centered approach to assisted care revolves around the individual’s unique needs and preferences of care. No two seniors have the same needs. If you or a loved one require assisted living options in Portland, Oregon, consider senior living that believes in the power of personalized care for seniors in assisted living. 

MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a new and modern assisted living community in Portland, OR, that focuses on each resident’s unique preferences, needs, and desires through a person-centered approach to assisted living. Here, residents are empowered to make choices and maintain control over their daily routines that they previously had. With some added support, seniors in assisted living maintain autonomy and dignity in a safe and trusted environment. Through ongoing assessments and individual care plans, our assisted living community routinely tailors services to meet needs as they change, ensuring residents receive the right level of support and assistance at all intervals of life.

Find the Most Caring Retirement Homes Portland, Oregon, Has to Offer

At MorningStar at Laurelhurst, our commitment to the well-being of our assisted living residents is unwavering. 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. Luxury amenities, hospitality services, and wellness programs are thoughtfully crafted to 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, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Portland, Oregon offers. 

Some Medications May Impair Your Memory

As we age, many seniors experience occasional “brain fog” or forgetfulness and have trouble comprehending and processing new information. Medical experts say this may be a normal part of aging but could also be from some of the medications you are taking.
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Dr. Mark Albers, a neurologist at the McCance Center for Brain Health at Harvard - affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital, says it is not all that uncommon for seniors to experience symptoms of brain fog when taking certain medications for the first time. He explains medications can affect memory more in aging adults as “older people tend to metabolize drugs more slowly, making them more sensitive to medications and more vulnerable to side effects.”

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

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

For independent or assisted living, MorningStar of Idaho Falls is the perfect community to enjoy stress-free retirement years. We are an all-inclusive community, boasting a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef and onsite amenities, wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. In addition, we provide holistic memory care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. 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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Idaho Falls.

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

Finding the Perfect Retirement Community: How to Make the Right Choice

Finding the right retirement homes for your budget and preferences can be challenging. How do you know which communities are best? Which should you choose?

It all comes down to your personal lifestyle and what you value in your everyday life. Follow this guide to make the perfect choice for you when choosing fromretirement homes.

Think About Your Desired Location First

While many seniors like to stay local to their current homes, some decide to travel out of town or even out of state to live in retirement homes.

This choice depends on your relationship with your family and personal preferences. For example, if you don’t have any local relatives and you want to move somewhere with a beach, you likely won’t choose retirement homes in cold areas.

However, staying local can be just as challenging. Finding the right community for you can be tricky if you have location restrictions.

Discuss your preferences with your family to find the best retirement location for you.

Decide What Amenities and Services You Want (and Need)

Every retirement community offers certain amenities and extra services to make residents more comfortable. To find the perfect community, decide what conveniences and luxuries are most important to you.

If you are an avid swimmer and biker, you’ll want to choose a community with lots of outdoor and water space. These are often included in your financial package with a retirement community.

Extra services can include housekeeping, mail delivery, and recreational sports. Find out which communities offer the services you want or need, and go from there.

Meet the Community

You should always tour a retirement community in person if you can. That is where you’ll meet your potential neighbors and the staff that will take care of your living space.

It’s important to form strong connections within your community. If a particular community doesn’t feel authentic or welcoming, feel free to choose a different one. First impressions can make or break your experience in a retirement community, so trust your gut instincts.

Consider Your Budget

It’s important to find a retirement community that fits within your budget. You know your financial situation best, and you get the final say on where you live.

Most retirement communities will offer a breakdown of the monthly and yearly costs required to live there. If a community doesn’t fit into your budget, you can move on to another one.

You’ve likely worked your whole life to save for retirement. Make sure you stick to the funds that you already have to avoid going into debt.

Find the Perfect Retirement Homes for You

When choosing your retirement community, consider all of your options carefully. After all, this is where you’ll be living after retirement. You deserve to find the best one for you.

4 Decorating Tips for Your Space in Retirement Homes

Having your own personalized living space is key to making your retirement home comfortable.

You might feel overwhelmed by all of the decorating ideas out there. Which styles should you incorporate? Follow these tips to decorate retirement homes in ways that make each day beautiful for seniors.

1. Plan Around Comfort and Mobility

While having an aesthetically pleasing living space is important, your health and safety should be your top priority. Plan your decorations around any mobility aids, comfort items, and safety devices that you need.

For example, if you need a handle in your shower, avoid putting up shelves that get in the way of these fixtures. You can still decorate your bathroom without sacrificing your safety.

Many seniors in retirement homes like to put up family photos. However, you should make sure any photos on walls or furniture don’t get in the way of chair lifts and other mobility aids.

2. Add Plenty of Greenery

Plants are a breath of fresh air in retirement homes everywhere. They smell pleasant and give you something to care for each day without requiring too much maintenance.

Take a trip to your local nursery or gardening store, and select some of your favorite plants for your home. You can also pick out stylish pots and hangers that match your other decorations.

Always check the rules for your retirement home’s community before bringing in plants or animals.

3. Avoid Unsafe Decorations and Materials

Retirement homes often have strict safety rules regarding household items. This is to prevent fires and injuries from harming the community.

When you’re decorating, keep the materials you are using in mind. For example, glass decorations are much more hazardous than plastic and other softer materials. Glass decorations could break, shatter, or cut you as you move around your space.

Items like candles and lighters are not good decorations, as they are major fire hazards. Instead, opt for an electronic candle or scented beads to keep your home smelling fresh and inviting.

4. Pick a Theme that Works Year-Round

While you can certainly decorate with seasonal items, it’s a good idea to make your home’s theme universal. This will prevent you from having to refresh your entire decorating scheme every few months.

By picking a non-seasonal decorating theme, you can buy staple items that last year-round, such as pillows, throw blankets, and wall hangings. This means you can spend less money and need less maintenance while still keeping up with your personal style.

Make Your Space Your Own with Decorations in Retirement Homes

Retirement homes are comfortable, safe spaces for seniors to enjoy daily life. You don’t have to give up your personal aesthetics and styles when you move. Choose safe, stylish decorations to make your space your own.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Searching for a Retirement Home

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

Deciding Too Soon

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

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

Not Considering Medical Needs

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

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

Looking Too Far from Home

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

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

Ignoring Reviews and Testimonials

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

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

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

5 Benefits of Moving into a Skilled Assisted Living Facility

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

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

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

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

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

2. Enjoyable Amenities

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

• Swimming pools

• Fitness centers

• Nutrition and wellness classes

• Game nights

• Common areas for socialization

• Outdoor tracks and paths 

• Recreational sports

• Group classes for hobbies and crafts

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

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

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

4. Community Events

Who doesn’t love a night out with friends? 

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

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

5. Better Quality of Life

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

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

Consider Assisted Living for Your Family Member

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

We’re Busting 5 Myths About Retirement Communities

Retirement should be a time for seniors to enjoy the best the golden years have to offer, and retirement homes are designed to add to seniors’ ability to live life to the fullest. 

However, many people are misled by rumors and myths about retirement communities that have left a sour taste in their mouths. In truth, the best retirement communities offer a chance to enjoy a life you won’t want to miss.

5 Common Retirement Home Myths

Retirement is supposed to be a time when you no longer are raising your children, you don’t have to wake up early, there’s no more difficult commute to or from the office, and you enjoy things you didn’t have time for when you were younger. Retirement homes are designed to make achieving these things easier.

Here are five of the biggest myths about retirement communities that can mislead people about the opportunities that these places really afford.

Myth 1: They’re Only for Seniors Who Can’t Care for Themselves

Retirement communities, unfortunately, are often confused with nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Retirement communities are for active retirees and those needing some medical care. 

Varying degrees of assistance are available to cater to different needs. These communities are designed for people who want to spend their retirement years with fewer responsibilities, like mowing lawns, cooking, and other household chores.

Myth 2: Seniors Will Lose Their Independence in Retirement Communities

When seniors are a good fit for the retirement community in which they live, they will actually become more independent than they may have been while living in their old homes. They will no longer need to rely on friends or family members to do things like laundry, grocery shopping, and house cleaning.

Myth 3: There’s No Privacy in Retirement Communities

Another myth about retirement homes is that they are set up like hospitals or care facilities, where staff members freely walk in and out of places at will. The best retirement communities offer spacious rooms with a wide range of amenities and features, and residents have control over their own privacy. 

Myth 4: Retirement Communities Are Too Expensive

Quality services and so much more make retirement communities invaluable to many. This is especially true when comparing costs related to those of living in personal homes, such as:

• Mortgages 

• Transportation 

• Housekeeping 

• Nursing

• Maintenance

• Taxes

These are only some of the many other costs associated with living outside retirement homes.

Myth 5: Retirement Communities Are Depressing

Nothing could be further from the truth! These are fun communities with numerous activities for residents, from table tennis, bingo, and dance lessons to yoga, movie nights, and cooking classes. Residents have opportunities to socialize with others that they wouldn’t otherwise have if they weren’t in retirement communities.

Trust Your Research, Not the Myths

When all is said and done, the myths about retirement homes that fly about are simply that: myths. Take the time to research retirement communities near you, and you’ll quickly see that they are safe, fun places designed to enhance every minute of the golden years.

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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest retirement communities Portland has to offer.

How to Prevent Winter Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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