MorningStar Senior Living Community Blog

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care. Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living community knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future. Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Mission Viejo hav

With the arrival of spring, the days become longer and the sun shines brighter, offering a perfect opportunity for seniors to soak up the benefits of sunshine. For residents at assisted living Boise and those in a retirement home Boise, the spring season is not just a time of natural beauty but also a period for enhancing physical and mental well-being through the power of sunlight. Here are some key benefits of spring sunshine for senior health. 1. Boosts Vitamin D Levels Sunshine is a natural source of Vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It helps the body absorb calcium, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Seniors, especially those in retirement home Boise, can take advantage of the spring weather to spend time outdoors, ensuring they receive an adequate dose of Vitamin D. 2. Improves Mood Exposure to sunlight increases the brain's release of a hormone called serotonin, which is associated with boosting mood and helping a pers

Music and arts hold a transformative power for people of all ages, particularly for seniors. These creative outlets offer more than mere enjoyment; they provide mental stimulation, emotional expression, and a unique form of communication, especially beneficial in assisted living Lakewood, senior living Lakewood , and memory care Lakewood. Engaging in music and arts can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors, offering various physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits. Music as a Gateway to Memory For seniors, especially those in memory care Lakewood, music can serve as a powerful tool in recalling past memories and experiences. Familiar tunes can trigger memories, promoting conversation and interaction. In assisted living Lakewood, music therapy sessions are designed to stimulate cognitive functions and foster a sense of community among residents, creating an environment where seniors feel connected and engaged. The Arts as a Means of Expression Art provides an invaluab

MorningStar of Hayward is committed to providing the finest senior living in the area and we encourage you to take a closer look at the many benefits of moving into an independent living community. While some seniors feel strongly about remaining in their homes after retirement, other seniors are very happy to have discovered the advantages of community living. To start with, for many seniors the family home starts to feel very empty once the kids have moved out. In addition, you are still stuck with all the upkeep and maintenance of the home including yard care and the costs of repairs and replacement. Senior living on the other hand, means no more concerns about maintenance inside or out. An independent living community also offers the security of predictable budgeting, which allows you to know just what your monthly expenses will be as most are included in your monthly fee. It also solves another problem many seniors face - loneliness. As we age, older adults can have difficult

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one out of every five Americans aged 65 years and older has a fall that results in an injury such as broken bones or a head injury. However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving. Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.” They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall. Their first advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention. Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects inclu

While losing weight is tough, for many of us, the real battle is keeping the weight off. Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, a dietitian and diabetes educator based in Washington, D.C., explains there is a growing body of evidence showing that when we focus on higher-quality nutrition, not only does our weight improve but also our health. Changing to a diet with more vegetables and fruits means you will take in fewer calories than you previously did, allowing weight loss to naturally take place. An improved diet results in better health. One of the biggest problems with “dieting” is that a person too often focuses on calorie content without regard to nutritional value.” Experts say this makes sticking to a calorie restrictive diet harder. Once we include nutritional foods in our day-to-day diet, it makes us feel fuller and even lets us eat more while taking in fewer calories. Another thing about a life-long nutritional diet filled with fruits and vegetables, plant-based proteins and whole fo

As we age, our eyes undergo natural changes, making it all the more important for seniors to prioritize eye health. Good vision plays a crucial role in maintaining independence and quality of life, particularly for residents in assisted living Boise and those in retirement home Boise. Implementing a few key practices can significantly contribute to maintaining optimal eye health well into the golden years. Here are essential tips for seniors aiming to keep their vision sharp. 1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams Regular eye exams are vital, even if you haven't noticed any significant changes in your vision. These check-ups can detect early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration before they progress. Professionals in assisted living Boise encourage residents to have their eyes checked at least once a year. 2. Protect Your Eyes from the Sun Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. Weari

With spring in full bloom, the allure of the outdoors beckons everyone, especially seniors who have been cooped up indoors during the colder months. This season offers a perfect opportunity for residents of assisted living Lakewood, senior living Lakewood, and memory care Lakewood to engage in activities that not only rejuvenate the spirit but also enhance physical and mental health. Here are some springtime activities tailored for seniors, ensuring they enjoy the outdoors safely. Gardening: A Therapeutic Endeavor Gardening is a favorite springtime activity that allows seniors to connect with nature while engaging in light physical exercise. It’s therapeutic, offering both a sense of accomplishment and tangible results in the form of blooming flowers and homegrown vegetables. Communities in senior living Lakewood often have communal gardens where residents can tend to plants or even have their own small plots. Walking: The Simple Joy Walking is one of the simplest yet most beneficial

Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. This is why experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep a loved one safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, install automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, investigate food delivery services. Additionally, lower the temperature of the water coming from the taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies i

Just as the rest of our body ages, so do our eyes. Older adults often complain of dry, teary or tired eyes and may have problems driving at night, experience flashes and floaters or need glasses to read. As we grow older, we are also at a higher risk for serious eye diseases that can impact our vision. One of the most serious eye diseases is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The American Macular Degeneration Foundation reports AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss among people aged 60 and older, affecting nearly 20 million Americans. The risk of developing AMD increases with age and if you are 75 or older, your risk is 1 in 3. Age-related macular degeneration causes the macula, a part of the back of the eye near the retina, to deteriorate. Experts say while it doesn’t impact peripheral vision, macular degeneration can affect how well a person sees what’s right in front of them. You are at a higher risk of getting AMD if a relative has had it or you are Caucasian,

As we journey into our senior years, dental care becomes increasingly important. Maintaining healthy gums and teeth is crucial for overall well-being, affecting not just our ability to enjoy food but also impacting general health. For residents in assisted living Lakewood, senior living Lakewood , and memory care Lakewood, there are specific considerations to keep in mind to ensure oral health remains a priority. The natural aging process can make seniors more susceptible to dental problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. However, with proper care and attention, many of these issues can be prevented or managed effectively, ensuring a healthy smile well into the golden years. Regular Dental Check-Ups Routine visits to the dentist are essential for early detection and treatment of dental issues. Seniors, particularly those in memory care at Lakewood or requiring additional assistance, benefit from regular dental screenings as part of their overall health care regimen.

Since our company was founded in 2003, we have believed it is a privilege to “cast a new light” on senior living guided by the following precepts: to 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. In addition, we firmly believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. If you are looking for exceptional independent living, MorningStar of Mission Viejo may be the place for you. Our beautiful community is designed to provide seniors with stress-free living, as we handle the maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping. This leaves you free to pursue your interests, explore new hobbies, travel and meet new friends. Along with inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. If you are a senior who requires help with the activities of daily living, Mornin

Vision is a critical aspect of our health, especially as we age. Age-related vision loss can significantly impact the quality of life, making everyday activities challenging. For residents in assisted living Lakewood, senior living Lakewood , and memory care Lakewood, there are proactive measures to help prevent or slow down the progression of vision loss. Understanding and implementing these strategies can make a substantial difference in maintaining eye health and independence. Regular Eye Examinations One of the most effective ways to prevent age-related vision loss is to undergo regular eye examinations. Eye doctors can detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration before they significantly impact vision. Seniors in senior living Lakewood have access to healthcare services that can facilitate regular eye check-ups, ensuring any changes in vision are promptly addressed. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) ray

As we age, our homes need to evolve with us to ensure they remain safe, comfortable, and accessible. This is especially true for seniors who cherish their independence and wish to age gracefully within their own homes. While many find the support they need in assisted living Lakewood, senior living Lakewood , and memory care Lakewood, others choose to adapt their current living spaces to meet their changing needs. Here are essential tips for making your home senior-friendly, focusing on accessibility and safety. 1. Eliminate Fall Hazards Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors, making it critical to minimize risks in the home. Start by removing loose rugs, clearing clutter from walkways, and securing cords away from foot traffic. Ensuring that living spaces, especially in environments like senior living Lakewood, are free from fall hazards can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. 2. Improve Bathroom Safety The bathroom is a common site for falls due to wet surfaces. In

Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be a daunting task for seniors, especially those who are making decisions about their healthcare coverage for the first time or considering changes to their existing plans. Whether you're residing in assisted living Lakewood , enjoying the community life in senior living Lakewood, or benefiting from the specialized care in memory care Lakewood, understanding how to maximize your Medicare benefits is crucial. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help seniors navigate Medicare more effectively. Understand Your Medicare Options Medicare comes in several parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare. Familiarize yourself with Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). Knowing the details of each part can help you make informed decisions about which coverage suits your needs best. Evaluate Your Health Needs Annually Your health needs