MorningStar Senior Living Community Blog

Staying organized as a senior can sometimes be a difficult task. Things tend to accumulate over time; and if you have never taken the time to downsize, chances are you have a lot of clutter you may need to go through. However, even if you do not have a lot of things to go through, there are still a lot of ways you can make organizing easier and more efficient for yourself as a senior living in Lakewood . Keep reading to learn some valuable organizing tips for seniors, so you can make your home an even more comforting place. Divide Clutter into Piles No matter how much stuff you have, it is very likely that you probably have at least a few items you do not really need or use anymore. A great way to get through this is to separate items into three categories: keep, sell/donate, and throw away. You can also add a fourth pile as a “maybe” pile for items you are not sure what you really want to do with. This is a very easy way to get everything out in the open where you can see it, and actu...

For many seniors, taking the time to improve their immune system can be an overwhelming task. With so many articles and different opinions about what is best for certain health conditions, doing your own research can quickly become exhausting. However, when it comes to supporting your immune system, there are really just a few basic things that virtually anyone can accomplish in their everyday life. If you are a senior in assisted living in Lakewood , keep reading to learn more about how you can easily boost your immune system–even if you are in memory care in Lakewood . Keep Your Hands Clean Washing your hands consistently is one of the best ways you can support your immune system. Our hands are often very close to our faces, in contact with wounds we may have, and touching food we eat. Any bacteria or viruses on our hands can be easily transferred to the inside of our body, as well as others. For this reason, it is absolutely vital to wash your hands as often as possible. Some hand w...

For exceptional independent or assisted living, Boise, ID area seniors are encouraged to learn more about Morningstar of Boise. Our leadership team always welcomes phone calls and email inquiries regarding our community. In addition, we have a very informative website that focuses on many of the different aspects of our community as well as provides some background on our company. For instance, our home page offers a great description of our community, brief comments from our Management Team, a map showing our location as well as a Gallery of pictures to illustrate the detailed attention to welcoming spaces and beautiful design. Our home page also has a button to Amenities that describes many of the community’s resort-style amenities. Clicking on Suite Amenities highlights the comforts within our well-designed apartments for independent and assisted living . Our spacious apartments are available in one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations, and you can view specifics by clicking...

Dehydration is something that is a very common problem in the elderly community. There are many factors that contribute to this problem; so in this blog, we will be discussing how much water you need as a senior and why. If you are a senior living in Lakewood , keep reading to learn more about how to be proactive about dehydration. What Causes Dehydration in Seniors? Dehydration in seniors can be caused by a number of things. Here are a few of the most common: As we age, our bodies do not process and use fluids as efficiently as they used to. This means you may not feel as thirsty when you actually need fluids. It also means that your kidneys will not function as well, and will fail to concentrate your urine as much to avoid fluid loss when you are dehydrated. These issues then come together to compound your dehydration even more. If you are not thirsty, you will not feel like or think about drinking water; and the water you do have in your body is not being kept in your body as long ...

While there are many senior living options in Boise , we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Boise is under the management of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, an experienced company with 40+ senior communities in operation or under development across eleven states. MorningStar Senior Living was started in 2003 based on a unique mission statement, principles and philosophy. As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains, his intention was to create senior living 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.” Out of this vision, came a three-pillared mission statement that still guides the way we deliver service to our residents: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.” Even the name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contempla...

Staying cool in the summer is a very important priority for many seniors. Since this age demographic is particularly susceptible to heat, it is vital to be proactive as temperatures rise. Heat stroke can happen quickly, so having a few tricks to stay cool this summer could make all the difference. If you are a senior in assisted living in Lakewood , keep reading to learn about the best kinds of clothes to wear to stay cool this summer. Keep it Loose Loose-fitting clothes are a great way to stay cool in the heat of summer. When you wear tight clothes, you end up not having enough room for air to move between your skin and the fabric. This can make you sweat more, making you feel uncomfortable, as well as dehydrate you more quickly. So, instead of wearing tight clothes that do not allow your skin to “breathe,” opt for looser outfits that let you feel the breeze. If loose long sleeves bother you, you can also wear loose-fitting short sleeved shirts or tank tops as well. However, if you ch...

Unlike years ago, when elderly people wanted to live in their own homes for as long as possible, many of today’s seniors see a real advantage to senior housing and love the idea of a more active community life. In fact, studies indicate community living provides a higher quality of life for many seniors and may contribute to a longer life and better physical and emotional health than those who remain in their own homes. Experts say this may be due to the fact senior living offers a less stressful, carefree environment in which seniors no longer have the responsibilities and unexpected expenses of home repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a retirement community is built around the needs of its residents as it is designed to be safely navigable for older folks as well as offers the benefit of others being around in case the need arises such as in the event of a fall. Another reason a senior living community such as MorningStar of Boise enhances quality of life for residents is the five...

Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Mission Viejo offers 30 memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our care services are extensive, and we provide a wide range of amenities, wellness programs and activities.  MorningStar’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings. Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we meet with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Reside...

MorningStar of Hayward is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company that was founded on the mission to: honor God, value all seniors and invest in staff. Our community is set in a warm, inviting environment and features beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities. We strive to create a real home for residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and community. Holding true to our mission of servant leadership, our staff are the kind of people who understand it is a privilege to serve; and treat residents like they do their own moms and dads. In fact, serving seniors has given us a profound respect for the many challenges and truimphs they have experienced throughout their lifetime; and is why we consider seniors to be true heroes. Located 25 miles south of San Fransicso, MorningStar of Hayward is meticulously designed and supported by an extraordinary hospitality and care team. We offer several options for senior living starting with independent living suites for those who...

The online journal, Medical News Today’s reports women and girls across the world still face challenges and discrimination in medical settings both as patients and prospective medical workers. One example of an area in which women’s medical health is often overlooked and misdiagnosed is coronary heart disease (CHD) despite the fact that it is the leading cause of death for women. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains CHD occurs when the arteries delivering oxygenated blood into the heart (where it is pumped out to the other organs) are not able to “service” the heart effectively. Studies show women may also be more at risk for developing non-obstructive CHD, a condition that causes the arteries going into the heart to be abnormally squeezed by surrounding tissue. CHD symptoms can vary between individuals as well as differ in men and women; and non-obstructive CHD can be symptom-less and go undetected for years. To complicate matters, research shows women’s symptoms are...

If you are a senior who is starting to feel overwhelmed by the care and upkeep of a home, it may be time to consider making a lifestyle change. At MorningStar of Hayward, we think you will be pleased to discover that not only are you giving up a houseful of problems but you are gaining a beautiful, no-maintenance home as well as a broader community of friends. Independent living provides seniors with a range of benefits including predictable monthly budgeting and tasty meals they no longer need to cook as well as built-in companionship. Residents can take part in our community activities, join us for sponsored outings, and have full access to the many amenities our community offers. In addition, we take care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, and offer weekly housekeeping, which allows our residents plenty of time to pursue their interests. Our community offers well-designed suites in a variety of floor plans. All suites have been remodeled and feature kitchenettes with ...

MorningStar of Mission Viejo is a 55+ community offering high-quality independent living, assisted living and memory care . Additionally we are pleased to offer respite care (short recuperative stays), or trial stays, which are a great way to sample our community and see if we are a good fit. They can extend from a week to a full month depending on availability. Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are newly discharged from a hospital stay and recovering from surgery or an illness that still requires some day-to-day support services. MorningStar of Mission Viejo expertly and compassionately provides just such care including bathing, dressing, and other personal tasks. We also provide recuperating seniors tasty, nutritional meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef, 24-hour care, medication management, and opportunities for socialization and meaningful activities. MorningStar’s respite residents are provided a quiet suite and the individualized care...

Harvard Health restates a classic text that says tai chi will help you become “Strong as an oak, flexible as a willow, and [mentally] clear as still water.” The ancient Chinese tradition is based in the martial arts; and is a popular low-impact exercise involving slow movements and breath. Experts say tai chi is suitable for people of all ages including seniors and offers numerous benefits. Tai chi’s mind-body exercises consist of slow, flowing, and choreographed movements that provide many people a sense of calm, which is why it is often referred to as mediation in motion, or medication in motion. Its movements focus on control as well as slowing down and relaxing muscles to allow the body to move more freely. Harvard Health says for those in their 60s, 70, 80s and beyond, “tai chi’s restorative powers can help you age more gracefully and function at a higher level than those who don't practice.” Other known benefits include offering relief from common ailments such back, neck an...

The Harvard Medical School reports it is estimated 1 in 3 people over age 65 will fall each year, and every 19 minutes a senior dies from a fall-related injury. Statistics show women are at higher risk for a fall but men are more likely to die from their injuries than women. Seniors should be aware of several things that can affect balance and lead to a fall. These include certain medications, inner ear problems, foot pain, weight changes and vitamin D deficiency. Anti-hypertensive medications prescribed to keep blood pressure under control or decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure are all known to affect balance. A common side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a condition that happens if blood pressure gets too low; and results in lightheadedness, faintness and dizziness especially when the person attempts to stand from a sitting or lying down position. Medications that suppress the central nervous system may also result in a fall as they reduce alertness, and slow reactions a...

Technology has come so far in just the last few decades, so it’s understandable that some aging adults experience difficulty navigating it. Be that as it may, it’s extremely important for seniors to be able to keep up with modern technologies, given that they provide access to communication, accommodations, and new information, all of which are especially valuable in people’s later years.  More specifically, here’s why technology is so important for aging adults: Communication with Loved Ones The majority of seniors’ loved ones probably use cell phones, social media, and other forms of technology throughout their daily lives, so if that person wants to keep in touch and have access to their family and whatever happenings might be going on, technology is vital.  Things like video chats and instant messages are just a few of the perks of using modern technology, as they allow people to talk to anyone anywhere in the world at any time. For seniors, that kind of reliable, long-dis...

With summer finally here, so is a plentiful selection of fresh, garden-grown fruits and vegetables in our supermarkets, farmer’s markets and produce stands. As dietitians recommend adults eat at least three servings of vegetables a day and two of fruit, summer’s yummy selection makes it easier and tastier to do. The US News & World Report published an article with a review of some of the five healthiest in-season fruits and vegetables to eat at mealtime or for snacks. The first recommendation is cherries. Across the country you will find a delicious assortment including Bing and Van, and the Rainer, a premium cherry that is a cross between Bing and Van as well as both sweet and tart varieties. A cup of cherries (about 21) has 90 calories, three grams of fiber, and is a good source of potassium and vitamin C. ``Cherries are also a great source of anthocyanins, which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, cardiovascular and other benefits.” Research has found cherries can...

Many of us have heard about or know a senior who has had a fall that led to a serious injury. Each year statistics report one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury; and approximately 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. Falls resulted in over 36,000 senior deaths in 2020. The Harvard Medical School reports the highest risk factor for a fall is a previous fall. While a senior may have fallen or tripped and not thought much about it, as they only twisted an ankle or didn’t sustain a serious injury, the event may be a precursor to another fall. There are things seniors can do to protect themselves from a fall and it starts by being aware of any risk factors you may have including vision and hearing problems, which can make a fall more likely. Experts say stiff joints can hamper your gait and balance and make it easier to fall, as do certain medications for blood pressure and antihistamines. As a deficiency...

It’s common for scammers to target the elderly population in   senior living   because of their lack of technological knowledge. This can put your loved ones at risk for scams that steal their money and personal information. Follow these tips to protect the seniors in your life from malicious scammers.  1. Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers Let your loved ones know that if they receive a phone call from an unknown number, they shouldn’t answer it.  Scammers get elderly people in  senior living  on the hook by calling them and pretending there’s an urgent situation. Such a ploy can confuse and worry seniors, which makes them more vulnerable to giving out personal information. Many scam artists pretend that the senior on the phone is in legal or financial trouble. The key is to avoid answering these types of calls at all.  Assure your loved one that the caller will leave a voicemail if it’s truly important. 2. Never Click Random Links Some scams ope...

Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to improve 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 improves 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,...

At MorningStar of Hayward, our goal is to provide the best independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers. We attribute our company’s success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership. To help us accomplish these lofty goals, we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts and a true love for seniors.  Our founding principles are based on “casting a new light” on senior living and treating each resident with the utmost respect and dignity. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and contribute is ageless; and we act upon this truth daily as we care for, inspire and love the residents under our roof. At MorningStar, we want seniors to recognize they are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream. We take great pride in a reputation for excellence and authenticity in both how we serve and why we serve throughout our MorningStar communities across 11 states. Specializing in compassionate care delivered by our distinguish...