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When a Loved One With Memory Loss Doesn't Remember You

June 02, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

Apart from having to watch a loved one go through the devastating stages of Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease, the next saddest thing may be when the person stops recognizing you.   This can bring up all sorts of feelings, of which some, while not fair, are there nonetheless.  When we take time to visit a family member (in person or via video call) in a memory care community and they don’t even know who we are, some people wonder why they are making the effort.  

However, a long-term caregiver reminds us how we can be certain the person is not reacting to our presence in some way?  Maybe the sound of our voice, or the touch of our hand?   In the same way people in comas have said they heard the voices of loved ones even when they were unable to communicate, perhaps a person in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease knows we are there for them on some level.  At the very least, in whatever way they can understand, we want them to know they are loved and valued.    

Experts suggest a way to help make yourself more recognizable to your parents or spouse.  If you are an adult child, try putting together a photo timeline of you as a small child, an adolescent, a young adult to a current picture.  Spouses can do the same starting with a picture from their early days as a couple to the present.  

For anyone having difficulty being around a loved one with Alzheimer’s, it may be helpful to learn all you can about the disease so you understand what is going on.  It will also teach you better ways to more effectively communicate with the person.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose offers specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our holistic care is individualized for each resident and every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is tailored to serve their needs.  As memory care specialists, we provide support to our residents and their families with an array of services, wellness programs and activities for the best quality of life. Residents receive 24-hour care from a well-trained staff, health monitoring, medication management and access to a full-time nurse. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior housing at MorningStar.

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

June 02, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior housing, senior apartments
senior apartments

How to Build a Stronger Immune System

May 26, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding colds and flu—it’s about keeping your immune system strong year-round. As we age, our body’s natural defenses slow down, making it easier to catch infections and harder to recover from them. The good news? A few simple lifestyle changes can give your immune system the boost it needs to keep you feeling your best.

At assisted living Portland, we see firsthand how small daily habits—like good nutrition, movement, and proper sleep—can make a big difference in overall health.

Fuel Your Body with Immune-Boosting Foods

Your immune system needs the right nutrients to stay strong. Processed foods and sugary snacks weaken immunity, while whole foods packed with vitamins and antioxidants help keep infections at bay.

Best foods for a strong immune system:

  • Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits) – High in Vitamin C, which helps fight infections.

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale) – Packed with antioxidants and immune-supporting vitamins.

  • Yogurt & probiotics – Support gut health, which plays a major role in immunity.

  • Garlic & ginger – Natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

At senior apartments Portland, meals often include nutrient-rich options to help residents maintain a strong immune system.

Stay Active—Even Just a Little

Regular movement helps boost circulation, reduce inflammation, and keep your immune system working efficiently. You don’t have to run marathons—even small amounts of daily exercise help.

Easy ways to stay active:

  • Take a short walk outside for fresh air and Vitamin D.

  • Try chair yoga or stretching to improve circulation.

  • Do light strength exercises to keep muscles strong.

Exercise also lowers stress, which can weaken your immune response over time.

Get Enough Restorative Sleep

Your body repairs itself while you sleep. Without enough rest, immune cells can’t function properly, making you more vulnerable to illness.

Tips for better sleep:

  • Stick to a consistent bedtime.

  • Avoid screens and bright lights before bed.

  • Create a relaxing nighttime routine (reading, soft music, or deep breathing).

At assisted living facilities Portland, many residents find that simple changes—like limiting caffeine in the evening or using white noise machines—help improve sleep quality.

Manage Stress to Protect Immunity

Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can weaken the immune system. Finding ways to manage stress can help protect overall health.

Stress-busting habits:

  • Deep breathing exercises or meditation.

  • Spending time outdoors or in nature.

  • Connecting with friends and family regularly.

Stay Hydrated and Practice Good Hygiene

Water helps flush toxins from the body, keeping your immune system working efficiently. Plus, simple hygiene habits—like frequent hand washing—can prevent illness from spreading.

Building a stronger immune system isn’t about doing one big thing—it’s about small, consistent choices that support overall health. By eating well, moving more, and managing stress, you can help your body stay strong and resilient at any age.

May 26, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living facilities, senior apartments, senior apartments Portland
senior apartments

Medication Mistakes Seniors Should Avoid

May 23, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

Keeping track of medications in senior living isn’t always easy. With different pills, changing dosages, and refill schedules, it’s no surprise that medication mistakes happen. But those little errors—taking a pill at the wrong time, missing a dose, or mixing the wrong meds—can have serious consequences.

Skipping Doses or Taking Extra

Missed a dose? It happens. But doubling up or skipping entirely can lead to problems.

  • Forgetting a dose can make certain medications, like blood pressure or diabetes meds, less effective.

  • Taking extra to “catch up” can be dangerous—especially with prescriptions like blood thinners.

Fix it: Use a pill organizer, set phone reminders, or ask a senior apartments Portland team member to check in. If you miss a dose, always follow your doctor’s instructions instead of guessing.

Mixing Medications Without Checking Interactions

Not all medications play nicely together. Some combinations can reduce effectiveness, cause dizziness, or even lead to dangerous reactions.

  • Common risky mixes: Blood thinners and pain relievers, certain heart meds and grapefruit juice, or antibiotics with dairy products.

  • Even supplements matter: Herbal remedies and vitamins can interfere with prescriptions.

Fix it: Before starting anything new, ask your pharmacist or doctor if it’s safe to take with your current meds.

Taking Medications on an Empty Stomach (or With the Wrong Foods)

Some medications need food to be absorbed properly, while others work best on an empty stomach.

  • Pain relievers (like ibuprofen) and some antibiotics should be taken with food to avoid stomach irritation.

  • Thyroid medications and certain osteoporosis drugs work best on an empty stomach.

Fix it: Read the labels and ask questions at the pharmacy. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your doctor can prevent discomfort or reduced effectiveness.

Storing Medications Incorrectly

Think the bathroom cabinet is the best place for medications? Think again. Humidity and heat can weaken many drugs over time.

  • Where NOT to store meds: Bathrooms, cars, or anywhere with temperature swings.

  • Best storage spots: A cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet (away from the stove).

Fix it: Keep medications in their original bottles with clear labels, and dispose of expired pills properly.

Not Reviewing Medications Regularly

What worked for you five years ago may not be the best option now. Dosages and medications should be reviewed regularly, especially if your health changes.

  • Certain medications may no longer be necessary or could be replaced with a better option.

  • Side effects can develop over time, even with meds you’ve been on for years.

Fix it: Schedule an annual medication review with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure everything is still the best fit for your health.

At senior living Portland, we encourage residents to take an active role in managing their medications. A little extra attention to these details can prevent mix-ups, improve effectiveness, and keep you feeling your best.

May 23, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living Portland, senior apartments
Senior Living

Like Other Parts of Our Bodies, the Digestive System Changes With Age

May 07, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior housing

Like other parts of our bodies, the digestive system slows down as we age and can cause problems. However, like other parts of our bodies, there are things we can do to improve its health including watching our diet and exercising.

The muscles that move food through the digestive system become weaker with age causing food to move slower through the body resulting in problems like constipation, bloating and discomfort. Another issue is bacteria levels in the gut change with age. The body does not make as many good bacteria, which in turn, increases bad bacteria. Along with the digestive system slowing, our closely related immune system also begins slowing. 

As an older person, you may develop sensitivity and intolerances to certain foods that can cause bloating and distention of the abdomen due to a buildup of excessive gas. Eating too fast, which increases your chances of swallowing too much air with each bite or consuming veggies like broccoli and cabbage, beans and other foods slow to digest; may be the culprit. 

Other things interfering with the gut can be medications commonly taken by seniors. Drugs used to control blood pressure and pain meds can further slow down the gut and cause constipation. Inactivity and not drinking enough fluids throughout the day can also affect the efficiency of our digestive system. Nonetheless, keep in mind; it is important to bring serious ongoing problems to the attention of your healthcare provider.

At MorningStar at West San Jose, we provide everything seniors need to enhance quality of life and make it easy to safely and comfortably age in place. Our vibrant community offers 69 suites for assisted living in a wide range of floorplans to address residents’ needs and preferences. In addition, residents are treated to hospitality and senior care services, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities. MorningStar’s dining is best-in-class and features flavor profiles to stimulate the senses and boost energy. Seasonal menus feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, often locally sourced. 

For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers care from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Contact us to learn more about luxury senior housing in San Jose.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and abundant amenities, we provide the finest assisted living and senior apartments in San Jose. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

May 07, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior apartments, senior housing
senior housing

Life After an Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis

May 05, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear.  Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through.  There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated.  

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward.  They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.”   

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through.  One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy.  They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able.  Finally, they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.”  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose offers compassionate and loving care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our Reflections Neighborhood not only provides an atmosphere of safety and well-being but also encourages and supports choice and independence to the fullest extent possible.  Memory care residents participate in recreational and purposeful activities, including exercise, music, life skills and art, as well as outings and special events. Above all, MorningStar senior housing residents are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

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

May 05, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior housing, senior apartments
senior apartments

How to Host a Senior Game Night with Friends

April 21, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

There’s nothing like a good game night to bring people together. Whether it’s classic board games, card games, or fun group activities, game nights offer a perfect blend of laughter, friendly competition, and meaningful social connection. For seniors, hosting a game night is a great way to stay mentally active, strengthen friendships, and create lasting memories.

Choose Games That Encourage Participation

The key to a successful game night is picking games that are easy to learn, engaging, and suited to everyone’s preferences. Look for games that don’t require too much physical movement and offer a balance of strategy, luck, and humor.

Top Game Night Picks:

  • Classic Board Games: Scrabble, Bingo, and The Game of Life are always crowd-pleasers.

  • Card Games: Simple options like Rummy, Uno, or Go Fish are great for mixed skill levels.

  • Trivia and Word Games: Games like Trivial Pursuit or Scattergories get everyone thinking and laughing.

  • Group Games: Pictionary or Charades are perfect for bigger gatherings.

For residents in senior living Portland, staff often help coordinate game nights, ensuring there are options for different skill levels and interests.

Set Up a Comfortable Space

Creating a welcoming environment makes all the difference. Choose a well-lit space with plenty of seating and large tables for board games and cards. Make sure the area is accessible and that players have enough room to spread out game pieces or snacks.

Add some background music at a low volume to keep the energy light and upbeat without interfering with conversation.

Snacks and Drinks to Keep the Fun Going

No game night is complete without snacks! Choose easy-to-eat finger foods that don’t make a mess—think veggie platters, cheese and crackers, popcorn, or fruit skewers. A mix of sweet and savory options keeps everyone happy.

For drinks, offer water, herbal teas, or even a fun mocktail to keep the mood festive. In senior apartments Portland, game nights often feature themed snacks that match the evening’s games—like popcorn buckets for movie trivia or mini cupcakes for bingo.

Keep It Light and Social

Game nights are about fun, not high-stakes competition. Encourage laughter, conversation, and moments of connection. Some players may love strategy-heavy games, while others prefer simple, luck-based options—so be flexible and ready to switch things up.

Including icebreaker games, like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Would You Rather?”, can also help everyone loosen up, especially if there are new faces in the group in assisted living facilities.

Add a Theme for Extra Fun

Take game night to the next level with a simple theme:

  • Casino Night: Set up card tables and play Blackjack or Poker with play money.

  • Trivia Night: Pick a theme like movies, history, or music and host a trivia challenge.

  • Retro Game Night: Bring out old-school favorites like Yahtzee and Monopoly.

Game nights aren’t just about the games—they’re about connection, laughter, and community. With a little planning and a lot of heart, you can host a game night that leaves everyone asking, “When’s the next one?”

April 21, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living facilities, senior living, senior apartments
senior apartments

How to Reduce Nighttime Leg Cramps

April 18, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in Assisted Living

Waking up in the middle of the night with a sharp leg cramp is never fun. For many seniors, nighttime leg cramps—often called “charley horses”—are an all-too-common occurrence that can disrupt sleep and leave muscles sore the next day. But the good news is there are simple strategies to help reduce these painful episodes and improve sleep quality.

In assisted living Portland, residents often share tips and tricks for managing leg cramps, while wellness programs focus on gentle exercises and dietary tweaks that can make a big difference.

What Causes Nighttime Leg Cramps?

Leg cramps happen when muscles tighten involuntarily, often in the calves, feet, or thighs. For seniors, these cramps can become more frequent due to several factors:

  • Dehydration: Muscles need proper hydration to function smoothly, and even mild dehydration can trigger cramping.

  • Mineral Deficiencies: Low levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect how muscles contract and relax.

  • Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow to the legs, often due to sitting or lying in one position too long, can contribute to cramping.

  • Certain Medications: Diuretics, statins, and some blood pressure medications can increase cramp frequency.

Stretch Before Bedtime

A simple nightly stretching routine can help prevent cramps by improving flexibility and circulation. Focus on gentle stretches targeting the calves, hamstrings, and feet.

Try This Calf Stretch:

  • Stand facing a wall.

  • Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height.

  • Step one foot back, keeping it flat on the floor, and bend your front knee.

  • Hold for 20–30 seconds, then switch legs.

Seated stretches can also be effective for those who prefer not to stand for long periods.

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Water plays a crucial role in muscle function. Aim to drink small amounts regularly throughout the day rather than chugging large amounts at once. Seniors in assisted living Portland often have easy access to hydration stations and are encouraged to sip water during meals and activities.

Add Muscle-Soothing Nutrients to Your Diet

Certain nutrients can help reduce the frequency and severity of cramps:

  • Magnesium: Found in almonds, spinach, and bananas, magnesium helps muscles relax.

  • Potassium: Bananas, sweet potatoes, and avocados are great potassium-rich options.

  • Calcium: Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks can help maintain proper muscle function.

Heat and Cold Therapy

If cramps strike during the night in senior apartments, applying a warm towel or heating pad can help relax tight muscles. A cold pack may also reduce soreness if the cramp lingers after the initial pain subsides.

When to Talk to a Doctor

If leg cramps become frequent, severe, or disrupt sleep regularly, it’s worth mentioning to a healthcare provider. In some cases, recurring cramps can signal underlying health issues like circulation problems or nerve damage. Doctors can also review medications to see if they might be contributing to the problem.

April 18, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, assisted living Portland, senior apartments
Assisted Living

The Role of Vitamin B12 in Maintaining Energy Levels

April 16, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

Feeling sluggish or constantly tired isn’t just a normal part of aging—it could be your body’s way of signaling a vitamin B12 deficiency. This powerhouse nutrient plays a vital role in keeping energy levels high, supporting brain health, and maintaining overall well-being, especially for seniors.

Why Vitamin B12 Matters for Energy

Vitamin B12 is essential for converting the food you eat into energy your body can use. It helps your body produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Without enough oxygen in your cells, you can start to feel tired, weak, or even lightheaded.

B12 also supports nerve health and brain function, making it a key player in maintaining mental clarity and reducing feelings of fatigue or brain fog.

Seniors Are More Prone to B12 Deficiency

As we age, our bodies can struggle to absorb vitamin B12 from food, even with a well-balanced diet. This is often due to a natural decrease in stomach acid, which is necessary for B12 absorption. Certain medications, like antacids or diabetes treatments, can also interfere with the body’s ability to process this crucial vitamin.

Common signs of B12 deficiency include:

  • Persistent fatigue or weakness

  • Memory problems or difficulty concentrating

  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

  • Mood swings or feelings of depression

How to Boost B12 Levels Naturally

The good news is that getting more B12 can be simple, whether through diet or supplements.

B12-Rich Foods:

  • Lean meats (like chicken, beef, and turkey)

  • Fish and seafood (especially salmon, tuna, and clams)

  • Eggs and dairy products

  • Fortified cereals and plant-based milks for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet

In senior living Portland, chefs often include B12-rich foods in meal plans, ensuring residents get the nutrients they need while enjoying balanced, delicious dishes.

Supplements and Shots: When Food Isn’t Enough

For seniors who struggle with absorption, B12 supplements can be an easy fix. These come in the form of pills, sublingual (under-the-tongue) tablets, or even B12 shots for more immediate results. Healthcare providers in senior apartments Portland often work with residents to find the most effective option based on their individual needs.

The Energy-Mood Connection

Because B12 supports both energy production and brain health, it also plays a role in mood regulation. Low levels have been linked to feelings of depression and increased anxiety. Maintaining healthy levels can help improve mood in assisted living, sharpen focus, and make daily tasks feel less overwhelming.

Vitamin B12 isn’t just another supplement—it’s a vital nutrient that can help seniors maintain energy, focus, and a better mood. Paying attention to levels is a simple but powerful way to feel more vibrant and engaged every single day.

April 16, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, senior living, senior apartments
senior apartments

Activities to Enrich Life for Those With Alzheimer’s Disease

February 14, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to enrich the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Experts explain they help encourage engagement and self-expression even in more advanced stages.  

Professionals who work with Alzheimer’s patients say music seems to decrease agitation and improve behavioral problems common in the middle stages of the disease. Patients in later stages may even be able to sing a song they knew from childhood or tap a foot to the beat even after other forms of communication are difficult. Dancing or gently moving to a rhythm helps coordinate motor movements as well as allows the person to express emotions. Research shows “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” 

If you wish to use music to calm and soothe, choose peaceful, tranquil pieces. If you want to boost spirits and bring back happy memories, use livelier pieces. Experts say to turn off other distractions like a TV and close windows if there is outside noise. Music may be more enjoyable for the person if it is something they are familiar with from their earlier life. 

Art can also be an outlet for self-expression and give a person with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose and accomplishment in creating their own work. Experts recommended avoiding any project that seems childlike and demeaning. Use safe, non-toxic materials, and if they need, take their hand and guide it on the paper to get them started. Moreover, remember there is no need for the person to finish.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose provides loving, compassionate memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourage and support their independence while keeping them safe.   Daily, purposeful activities use music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to find ways to connect with and nurture the individual whatever the extent of memory loss.  Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

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

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

February 14, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior apartments, assisted living, Memory Care
senior apartments

Depression in Later Life

January 10, 2025 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior apartments

Depression can affect people at any age including senior citizens.  According to Web MD, “Late-life depression affects about 6 million Americans age 65 and older, but only 10% receive treatment for depression.”  They suggest the reason for this may be that the symptoms seniors display are often ignored or assumed to be a result of illnesses and medications or just a normal part of growing older. 

There are many reasons why seniors suffer from depression including major changes in their lives such as retirement, the death of a spouse, illnesses, disabilities and social isolation.  People suffering from very painful, disabling, or life-threatening illnesses are especially vulnerable to depression or the worsening of symptoms.  Furthermore, depression can be caused by medications that are commonly prescribed to the elderly including blood pressure medication, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, calcium-channel blockers and medication for Parkinson’s as well as others.

Suffering from depression prevents seniors from enjoying life as they used to and can be the cause of a change in appetite, problems sleeping and impact physical health.  HelpGuide.org says, while sadness is one sign of depression, some seniors in senior apartments do not recognize or admit to feelings of sadness.  Rather someone may “complain instead of low motivation, a lack of energy, or physical problems.  In fact, physical complaints, such as arthritis pain or worsening headaches, are often the predominant symptom of depression in the elderly.”

All too often seniors just accept depression as a part of the aging process but there are steps you can take to help yourself or your loved one.  You first need to talk to your health care provider to rule out other problems, and then perhaps you need to make changes in your lifestyle.  Experts suggest that isolation and inactivity can make depression worse and they recommend getting involved in physical, mental and social activities. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

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

January 10, 2025 /MorningStar Senior Living
assisted living, Memory Care, senior apartments
senior apartments

The Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

August 12, 2024 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

The Medical News Today says too many people do not get diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and related neurodegenerative diseases until they are in the advanced stages; thereby limiting their prevention and treatment options. Medical professionals say although the disease has typically been categorized as primarily a movement disorder, new research finds executive function may be a major factor in determining its progression. Executive function is defined as a broad group of mental skills enabling people to complete tasks and interact with others. Disordered executive function impairs a person’s ability to organize and manage behavior.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation the top 10 signs of the disease are: 

  • Tremors 

  • Small handwriting

  • Loss of smell

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Trouble moving or walking

  • Constipation

  • A soft or low voice

  • Masked face (looking depressed or mad)

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Stooping or hunching over 

If you have any of these signs, you should see your healthcare provider. He or she may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in the brain as well as other specialists. Experts say there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but rather your treatment will be tailored to address your own special needs and is usually a team effort. Based on your symptoms, treatment may include seeing a physical, speech or occupational therapist; medications and exercises. 

Research also suggests a strong link between those who experience what is known as “minor hallucinations” early on in the disease to a more rapid loss of executive function as well as cognitive decline in the later stages. Minor hallucinations involve the senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste. These include seeing someone who is not there or seeing a face or object in something like a cloud or a carpet. It is important to let your doctor know if you are experiencing any hallucinations.    

At MorningStar at senior living West San Jose, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social wellbeing. We provide everything seniors need for quality of life and to age in place safely and comfortably. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live fully productive lives. Please contact us today for more information about outstanding senior living in San Jose.

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

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/minor-hallucinations-may-be-an-early-sign-of-parkinsons-related-cognitive-decline

August 12, 2024 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior housing, senior apartments
Senior Living

Top 3 Benefits of Companion Living for Seniors

December 18, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in Senior Living

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

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

Three benefits to companion living in a senior living community:

Affordability

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

Prioritizing Safety

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

Easing the Transition

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

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

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

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

December 18, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, senior apartments
Senior Living

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