MorningStar Senior Living Community Blog

The winter season can bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially among the elderly. This is a significant concern in places like assisted living Lakewood and senior living Lakewood, where the cold weather may limit outdoor activities. However, there are several effective strategies to stay connected and combat loneliness during these months. 1. Embrace Technology for Communication For seniors in communities like memory care Lakewood , technology can be a lifeline to the outside world. Learning to use video calls, social media, and instant messaging can help maintain regular contact with family and friends, reducing feelings of isolation. 2. Participate in Community Activities Assisted living Lakewood often hosts a variety of indoor activities. Engaging in these social events can provide a sense of community and belonging. Whether it's a craft workshop, a book club, or a group exercise class, there's usually something for everyone. 3. Explore New Hobbies Pickin...

Staying active during the colder months can be challenging, especially for seniors. For those in assisted living Lakewood or senior living Lakewood , it's important to find gentle exercises that keep the body moving without risking exposure to harsh weather conditions. These exercises are also beneficial for residents in memory care Lakewood, as physical activity can boost cognitive function. Here are some effective, senior-friendly exercises to stay fit during cold days. Indoor Walking Walking is a simple and effective way to stay active. For residents in assisted living Lakewood, indoor walking can be a great option when the weather outside is too cold. You can walk around the facility or in a common area. It's a low-impact exercise that helps maintain cardiovascular health and muscle strength. Chair Yoga Chair yoga is an excellent choice for seniors in senior living Lakewood. It offers the benefits of traditional yoga, like flexibility and strength, but in a safer, seated fo...

Glaucoma is a major concern for the elderly, potentially leading to vision loss if not addressed properly. Seniors, especially those in environments like assisted living Lakewood or senior living Lakewood, need to be particularly vigilant about glaucoma prevention. This condition can be even more challenging for those in memory care Lakewood due to the complexities of managing multiple health concerns. Here are some effective strategies to help prevent glaucoma and maintain eye health in senior years. 1. Regular Eye Examinations The first and most crucial step in preventing glaucoma is to have regular comprehensive eye exams. Seniors in assisted living Lakewood should have eye exams at least once every two years, and those over the age of 60, annually. Early detection of glaucoma is vital for effective treatment and management. 2. Understand the Risk Factors Residents in senior living Lakewood should be aware of the risk factors for glaucoma. These include age, family history, race, a...

For many, retirement means an end to a long career and a busier lifestyle. As relaxing as that sounds, research shows it is important for people to continue to feel actively engaged regardless of their age. One interesting and fun way to do it is with a hobby as they are a good way to keep our brains sharp, relieve stress and anxiety, and lessen obsessive thoughts and preoccupations. One example of an all-around hobby is gardening. Not only does the person benefit from their labor in the form of flowers, fruits or vegetables, experts say gardening offers physical and mental benefits. These include reducing stress, giving the person a sense of achievement, getting out into fresh air and staying fit. If you are worrying about the physical work involved in gardening, there are tools and methods designed to make it easier. Raised beds eliminate the need for bending and kneeling on the ground as does vertical gardening that keeps things at arms’ reach. Another hobby beneficial for seniors i...

As winter approaches, it's crucial for the elderly, particularly those in assisted living Lakewood, to stay vigilant about their health and safety. Cold weather can bring about unique challenges, especially for seniors. Whether you're in a senior living Lakewood community or receiving memory care Lakewood, these tips will help you navigate the colder months with ease and safety. 1. Maintain Indoor Warmth In assisted living Lakewood facilities, it's important to ensure that your living space is warm and comfortable. Check the heating systems and keep your room at a consistent, warm temperature. It's equally important for seniors living at home to maintain a warm indoor environment, as the elderly are more susceptible to hypothermia. 2. Dress Appropriately for the Weather Whether you're in senior living Lakewood or living independently, dressing in layers is key to staying warm during the winter. Seniors should wear thermal undergarments, followed by a layer of wool...

MorningStar of Mission Viejo 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 independent living, 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 en...

Social scientists say “aging gracefully” should not be just an expression but rather something people should take to heart as they enter their senior years. Maintaining a positive attitude as we age can help us better weather the many ups and downs we encounter along the journey. A comprehensive study from the Yale School of Epidemiology and Public Health followed 660 seniors aged 50 years and older and found those who held a more positive view on growing older lived on average 7.5 years longer than those with a negative view. Researchers added negative views on old age may even make someone more susceptible to developing the brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, they report if a person shifts to a more positive way of thinking, the adverse outcome may be mitigated. Dr. Manfred Diehl, professor of human development and family studies at Colorado State University, advises people on how to develop a more positive approach to aging. His first recommendation is to b...

Many times, a move to assisted living for an elderly loved one is due to an event such as a recent hospitalization for a fall or a worsening medical condition. This means the person does not have the time to process the move from a beloved home, and the sudden change may be very upsetting. Even for seniors who have had the time to plan a move into assisted living, it may be challenging. At MorningStar of Boise, we know the many benefits assisted living communities such as ours afford to residents; but at the same time, we recognize any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly one of those events. In addition to our own experience, experts also offer suggestions to families on how best to support their loved one during the transition. It may ease the transition for the person to get as familiar as possible with the new community and staff before the move. Also, after a decision is made, let your loved one decide what furniture and keepsakes they want to move wi...

We all applaud the numerous life-saving medications that help many people enjoy a higher quality of life than they may have experienced without these wonder drugs. In the US, the FDA is in charge of approving the medications that come to market in our country and ensuring they are safe and effective.  While each new prescription drug is carefully looked at by the experts at the FDA before it is granted approval, over the last ten years statistics show there were more than 14,000 drugs recalled. This adds up to an average of almost four recalls a day.   Experts say although the numbers sound alarming, in most cases, the FDA is aware of any side effects and risks the drug has before it is made available to the public. According to an article from the Harvard Medical School, there are several explanations as to why things are missed after approval, and a drug is deemed unsafe and recalled. The most likely reason is drug clinical trials are typically done with at most a coupl...

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.     Typically, in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back.   The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions....

MorningStar of Mission Viejo is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company , which takes a unique, holistic approach to retirement communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. Our company has thrived and expanded since its conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living. From there our mission statement reads: 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 has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a ...

Research has shown pets are beneficial to seniors. A Place for Mom’s website reports on one study, which found “15 minutes spent bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.” Researchers explain interactions between humans and pets can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke.  Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection. In fact, animals uplift the spirits of those in hospitals, convalescent homes, mental health centers, nursing homes, and assisted living communities through pet therapy programs. Moreover, pet therapy has proven beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease and oth...

A fall can result in serious injuries especially for the elderly, who make up most cases, and can take a long time to heal. Many even lead to permanent mobility issues that limit the person’s freedom. The CDC reports that each year 3 million older adults are treated in the emergency room for a fall injury and over 800,000 patients are hospitalized due to their injuries. Experts explain there are several reasons why the elderly are more vulnerable to falling and include medical conditions such as Parkinson’s and heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, hypoglycemia, diabetes, and blood pressure fluctuations. In addition, physical disabilities that affect strength and balance, poor eyesight, inner ear problems, and dehydration can also put a person more at risk for a fall. Common situations that can result in a fall include wet or recently polished floors, poorly lit areas, rugs not properly secured, stairs, and uneven sidewalks. There are some changes you can make to fall-proof your ...

Today’s assisted living is not just another term for a nursing home, which is intended for people who require skilled, around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Rather assisted living, the most popular long-term care option for older adults in the U.S., is designed for seniors who cannot get the help they need or afford while living at home or in an independent living community. The first community in the U.S. opened in the late 1980s. The concept quickly took hold out of consumers’ distaste for nursing homes and the desire for something offering the services, safety and amenities seniors required while still supporting and encouraging their independence. Assisted living recognizes seniors as productive, contributing individuals who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities offer private suites and most are equipped with kitchenettes. At communities such as MorningStar of Hayward, meals and transportation are provi...