The Transition to a Memory Care Community

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you most likely understand the challenge of introducing changes into their day-to-day routine. One big change, which can be stressful for all involved, is when a family decides it is time to move a parent or another loved one into a senior living community offering memory care.

A Place for Mom’s website warns families it can take a while for a loved one to adapt. They encourage the family to take an optimistic view about the move, and help the person focus on the positive aspects of the community, talking up the programs and activities, quality of care, and the social interactions. Moreover, rather than spending time second-guessing your decision, remember you carefully searched for the best place for your loved one and now you need to trust the experts in the community.  

A few tips to help your loved one’s transition is to fix up the suite much like their old home, adding family photos and other favorite mementos. In addition, while you need to give the person time to adapt, this doesn’t mean you cannot add your input regarding their care. During the intake process, the staff will look to the family to provide details regarding the person’s day-to-day routine, their background and likes and dislikes. Visit regularly in person or virtually but don’t get upset if they tell you they want you to go. Avoid arguing but reassure them they are safe, and offer to take them for a walk, listen to music or something else you know they will enjoy.     

At MorningStar senior housing San Jose, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to providing loving, compassionate memory care and we help families transition their loved one into our welcoming home. Every aspect of our care caters to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia including purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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

Source: aplaceformom.com/alzheimers-care#how-do-i-ease-my-loved-ones-transition-to-a-memory-care-facility

Adequate Sleep Is Vital for Health and Well-Being

Research clearly shows that getting enough sleep each night is important to our good health and well-being.  In fact, doctors say it is as vital to one’s health as regular exercise and eating a balanced diet, and the benefits extend into almost every aspect of our lives.  

While scientists are unable to directly link lack of sleep to weight gain, evidence suggests that it may interfere with our body’s ability to regulate food intake correctly.  One study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, a publisher of high-impact research reports, commentaries, perspectives, and reviews, found that sleep patterns do affect the hormones responsible for appetite. 

Getting enough sleep should also be an essential part of an athlete’s training regimen as adequate sleep helps to improve both physical and mental performance.  A good night’s rest has been proven to refuel athletes and give them more intensity and energy as well as faster speed.  Doctors recommend an average of 7 to 9 hours for most adults and up to 10 hours for athletes. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds that getting proper sleep each night allows the body’s blood pressure to regulate, and helps to reduce sleep apnea and promote better heart health.  A study even suggests that inadequate sleep can result in a reduced ability to empathize with others, while another found a link between lack of sleep and depression.  Others report inflammation and sleep may be linked including a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology that suggests “a link between sleep deprivation and inflammatory bowel diseases.” 

To get a good night’s sleep, experts recommend going to bed around the same time each night and avoid sleeping in later than you need to.  Try to get plenty of exercise during the day and reduce stress with exercise or other therapies.  

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, we encourage you to learn more about senior housing MorningStar at West San Jose.  Our beautiful community offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and built-in companionship.  We provide senior care and hospitality services along with luxury amenities and a choice of well-designed floor plans.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to set up a personalized tour.  

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

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325353

Aging Brings Changes in the Brain

It is no secret that aging brings with it changes many of us experience including not being as sharp as we were when younger. Many seniors say they find it more difficult to multitask, have trouble recalling names and finding the right word. Some complain about a decline in their ability to concentrate, absorb, process, and remember new information. 

On the positive side, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says studies have found various strengths of seniors such as having a wider vocabulary and a greater depth of understanding of the meaning of words than younger adults. Moreover, most are capable of learning new skills (it may take longer), and forming new memories. Another advantage older adults have over their younger counterparts is a wealth of life experience and accumulated knowledge. 

However, researchers are trying to figure out why some seniors stay cognitively healthy longer than others, and if our lifestyle habits protect our brains as we age. For now evidence shows certain parts of our brains do shrink as we age, especially those areas associated with learning; and parts of our brain may not communicate with one another as well as when we were younger. In addition, blood flow may decrease, while inflammation increases, and causes problems. 

We do know some people live well into their 80s, 90s and beyond with sharp cognitive skills, and defy the widely held view of seniors’ declining abilities. NIA-supported researchers call these lucky few “super agers,” and define them as “people aged 80 years and older who have performance on memory tests comparable to people two to three decades younger.” While we are not sure why super agers retain such strong cognitive skills, scientists say it could be they started out with a larger, more robust brain. 

If you are looking for senior housing in San Jose, MorningStar may be your answer. We offer seniors a place to socialize and make new friends as well as activities and wellness programs to enjoy life to the fullest. MorningStar’s independent and assisted living allows older adults to comfortably age in a beautiful and vibrant environment. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic care to those with memory loss diseases. To experience MorningStar at West San Jose up close, contact us to schedule a visit.  

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 for more information about the finest assisted living in San Jose.

MorningStar at West San Jose’s Approach to Memory Care

Along with a variety of well-designed floor plans for independent and assisted living, MorningStar at West San Jose has suites for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.  Our team feels privileged to provide highly specialized, individualized care for seniors in the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.  

MorningStar’s resident-directed approach to memory care respects the dignity and value of each person and supports choice and independence as much as possible.  All our memory care suites are within our Reflections Neighborhood, which is designed to accommodate the needs of our special residents.    

Memory care residents can move freely about in a safe and secure environment reserved just for them.  We offer three daily meals served in our beautiful dining room where residents and staff eat together.  In addition, residents are provided 24-hour care with daily health monitoring, medication management and the expertise of a full-time licensed nurse. 

MorningStar’s memory care comes from a deep understanding of the disease, and we create an individualized care plan for each resident based on their background, preferences and abilities. Our compassionate, professional staff uses multi-sensory cues to calm and awaken memories and to support capabilities. All residents are encouraged to participate in a variety of purposeful activities that include music, life skills, art, entertainment, exercise and special events. In addition, we offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.

Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar Senior housing and our community in San Jose.  If you like what you see, contact us to set up a tour.  We understand how challenging a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be for families, and we want you to know we are here to support you as well as your loved one.    

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

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

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.

The Importance of Protecting Your Mobility

When we were younger most of us were lucky enough to take our mobility for granted. We didn’t have to think about whether we would be “able” to physically do a routine task. However, as we grow older, our bodies can encounter physical limitations that threaten our independence. Experts say protecting our mobility requires attention and the “use it or lose it” mantra is a fitting one. Lifestyle choices and exercise as well as diet and preventive care can help keep us stronger and steadier with fewer aches and more stamina. 

The Harvard Health Publishing by Harvard Medical School defines mobility as the ability to move purposefully as you go through your day, and is the foundation for living a healthy and independent life. It requires a certain amount of physical stamina, strength, balance, coordination, and range of motion. Mobility allows seniors to do everyday things like get out of bed each morning, climb a set of stairs and bring in groceries from the car. Poor mobility causes problems such as being unable to get up out of a chair on your own or getting up from the toilet without helping hand. Good mobility helps keep seniors safe by lessening their risk of falls and subsequent injuries; and allows the person to live on their own.                                                                

The US Census Bureau reports that mobility issues are the most frequent cause of disability for people over 65 and impacts their ability to safely climb stairs and walk. While some mobility problems can’t be helped, experts say generally to maintain mobility, seniors should do exercises targeted to increase strength, balance, stamina and coordination. 

Ask your doctor, physical therapist or trainer on ways to preserve and improve your freedom of movement. Moreover, if you are unsteady on your feet, check with them about using a mobility aid such as a cane or walker to improve steadiness. 

For exceptional senior housing in San Jose, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at West San Jose, a true destination for successful aging. We are an all-inclusive community, offering a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef and a range of floor plans to meet varying needs. Residents enjoy onsite amenities, wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us for more information about our beautiful community as well as pricing and availability.

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

Source: health.harvard.edu/topics/mobility

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

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.

Life After an Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis

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.

Patients' Opinions on AI Medical Advice

The Harvard Medical School published an article discussing how patients rated AI’s information next to real doctors’ advice in terms of empathy. Following up on findings from the ChatGPT survey showing AI to be more empathetic to patients, the author, Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing, says there is most likely more to consider. Currently AI does tasks such as “drafting doctor’s notes, suggesting diagnoses; helping to read x-rays and MRI scans; and monitoring real-time health data including heart rate or oxygen level.” 

Shmerling points out while AI’s surveyed responses were longer than the doctors, there is more to it than the “amount” relayed to patients’ including how accurate and up to date the information is. Another thing to consider is the answers AI provided were not tested for fabrication. Therefore, experts advise it is probably premature to rely on AI answers to patients’ questions without solid proof of their accuracy and actual supervision by healthcare providers. 

A University of Arizona Health Sciences’ AI study reports more than half of its participants didn’t fully trust AI-powered medical advice, but many more put faith in AI if it’s monitored and guided by human touch. The National Institutes of Health funded study gave participants mock medical conditions and asked if they would prefer to have an AI system or a physical doctor handle their diagnosis and treatment, and under what circumstances. The study’s lead author, Marvin J. Slepian, MD, JD, Regents Professor of Medicine at the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the BIO5 Institute, explains the study has importance for both future and current medical decisions. However, he says, “The onus will be on physicians and others in health care to ensure that information that resides in AI systems is accurate, and to continue to maintain and enhance the accuracy of AI systems as they will play an increasing role in the future of health care.” 

At MorningStar at West San Jose, our community is designed to promote residents’ health and well-being with a range of senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities.  Our beautiful property has 69 assisted living suites for those that need help with the activities of daily living.  In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides an additional 34 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on senior living 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 for more information about the finest assisted living and senior housing in San Jose.

Sources:

health.harvard.edu/blog/can-ai-answer-medical-questions-better-than-your-doctor-202403273028

healthsciences.arizona.edu/news/releases/would-you-trust-ai-doctor-new-research-shows-patients-are-split

MorningStar at West San Jose Offers Companion Living

MorningStar at West San Jose recognizes that for some, senior living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable.  One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.”  This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care.

Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them.  However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you.  We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship.  With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split.  

Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community.  The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident socialization with the broader community, and having someone around who knows the ropes is always helpful.  Also, you can look out for one another’s interests and most likely be the first one to notice a change in the other’s health or abilities.  As we all know, when a friend is present, everything else suddenly feels that much better.

MorningStar at West San Jose offers residents an engaged lifestyle that includes a wide range of programs and activities as well as nutritional daily meals. Our many onsite amenities include a bistro, theatre, salon, fitness center, life enrichment area and sky terrace.  If you are looking for a community with amenities and services unmatched by other senior housing in the area, please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar. 

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

The Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

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

HOW TO MANAGE ARTHRITIS AS A SENIOR

As we age, arthritis becomes one of the most common ailments that we have to manage. The medical condition impacts more than 60 million adults, with most cases developing in older adults. As the most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis results from the wear and tear inflicted on joints throughout the body. At our senior living facility in Portland, Oregon, caregivers educate our guests on how to recognize the signs of arthritis, as well as take steps to manage the painful medical condition.

In addition to the wear and tear on joints that is part of the aging process, other factors can influence the development of arthritis symptoms. Obesity is a common cause of arthritis, as the joints have to support much more weight. A history of joint injuries, especially ones that develop symptoms as the result of contact sports, also plays a role in causing osteoarthritis. Family history plays a role, as well as overusing joints as the result of repetitive movements.

How to Manage Arthritis

A healthcare provider cannot cure arthritis, but seniors should follow a few tips that alleviate pain and other troublesome symptoms.

Exercise

It seems counterintuitive to exercise the same joints that generate pain and stiffness, but certain low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, and tai chi loosen the joints to improve flexibility. Always consult with your physicians before starting a new exercise regimen. Take it slow at the beginning of an exercise program, and then adjust the intensity according to how your joints respond.

Heat and Cold Therapies

The American College of Rheumatology recommends heat therapy because it relaxes joints and muscles. Heat enlarges blood vessels, which translates into a higher blood flow rate that delivers much-needed nutrients to joints. Applying a heating pad directly on the area of pain is an effective treatment method, as is warming up the entire body by taking a hot bath or swimming in a heated pool.

Inflamed joints benefit from cold therapies, such as applying a cold pack on the area where pain has developed.

Control Weight

We already mentioned the negative impact that obesity has on the joints. Controlling weight represents an effective preventive measure that mitigates or even eliminates the symptoms that are associated with arthritis. One of the keys to controlling weight concerns adopting a more nutritious diet, such as eating more antioxidant fruits and leafy vegetables. Controlling weight places less stress on joints, which increases mobility and prevents additional injuries.

Medical Treatments

Over-the-counter medications such as arthritis creams and oral pain relievers can help reduce the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis. For more serious arthritis cases, surgery might be the only viable strategy to manage arthritis as a senior. Osteotomy, which removes a small piece of bone to relieve joint pressure, is a common surgical procedure to help seniors manage arthritis symptoms.

Managing arthritis can be a challenge for seniors that live on their own. Receiving daily care at an assisted living facility in Portland ensures a loved one lives a healthier lifestyle. MorningStar senior housing facilities across the United States have earned the reputation for passionately serving seniors. Connect with MorningStar at Laurelhurst to learn more about why we operate the best senior housing facility in Portland, Oregon.

CEO of MorningStar Discusses His Commitment to Religiously Based Senior Care

“I had a dream to start a senior housing company that was defined by the human touch. I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” 

MorningStar’s founder and CEO, Ken Jaeger, has had 15 years of executive leadership experience and thoughtful observation of the senior housing industry. Jaeger’s dream senior housing community focuses on the power of relationships. Jaeger designed a three-pillared mission upon which MorningStar remains grounded. Set to open in December 2022, MorningStar at Laurelhurst Retirement Home and Assisted Living community in Portland, Oregon, is built to reflect these pillars for which Ken Jaeger established his bold brand of senior living rooted in Judeo-Christian principles.

MorningStar at Laurelhurst is a retirement community with a strong commitment to moral values and ethics. Within Ken Jaeger's three-pillar mission, MorningStar’s business practices focus on honoring God within their care and relationships. We emphasize the value of all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and we invest in our team's ability to serve well. We commit to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle while providing security and independence. We retain employees who use creative minds and compassionate hearts to serve residents with the best senior care. 

Since our first privileged year of service, the deep and lasting impression we want to make is this: We are a radically relational, senior-loving home where residents are seen as heroes. By weaving all the threads of a better story, by knowing our purpose is greater than any one of us, MorningStar is resolved to elevate the world of business and leave a legacy of benevolence and changed lives.

Contact us to earn more about MorningStar’s values and ethics within assisted living in Portland. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Portland.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Laurelhurst, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Portland, Oregon.