MorningStar Senior Living Community Blog

Staying tuned in to what is happening in the world can be energizing at any age. For many seniors, in retirement communities keeping a voice in political and social conversations is part of feeling useful, informed, and connected. Staying Informed Without Feeling Overwhelmed The first step is knowing what is going on, but that does not mean watching the news all day. A few simple habits can help you stay informed while protecting your peace of mind. Try choosing one or two trusted news sources instead of flipping between channels. You might: Read the local paper or its website once a day Watch a single news program at a time that suits you Listen to public radio or reputable podcasts while you relax Using Technology on Your Own Terms Technology can be a helpful tool for staying engaged, even if you prefer a quieter life. A basic tablet, smartphone, or computer lets you: Read articles and opinion pieces from different viewpoints Watch community meetings or candidate forums online Follo...

Shorter days, colder temperatures, and slippery sidewalks make winter a uniquely challenging season for many older adults. Bodies that once bounced back easily from a chill or a missed step may now need a bit more care. Understanding how winter affects senior health in assisted living makes it easier to plan ahead and keep life comfortable, safe, and enjoyable during the colder months. Why Winter Can Be Hard on Seniors Cold weather stresses the body in several ways. Blood vessels constrict in low temperatures, which can raise blood pressure and put added strain on the heart. Muscles and joints often feel stiffer, making walking and everyday tasks more tiring. Icy paths and snowy steps raise the risk of falls, which can have serious consequences for older bones. On the emotional side, limited daylight can affect mood. Some seniors notice they feel more sluggish, unmotivated, or down as winter progresses. This may be related to seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression linked to...

Care for people living with dementia has changed a lot in recent years. Instead of relying only on routines and medications, more programs are weaving in creativity, technology, and emotional support in assisted living Lakewood . These newer approaches do not replace the basics of good care, but they add layers of comfort, connection, and stimulation that can make each day feel more meaningful. Embracing Helpful Technology Simple, well chosen technology can gently support memory and engagement. Virtual reality headsets, for example, can take someone on a quiet trip to the beach, a favorite city, or a peaceful forest. Even short sessions can spark memories, ease anxiety, or provide a pleasant distraction from confusion. You do not need advanced devices to benefit, though. Tablets or touch screen computers with large icons can offer: Memory and word games Digital photo albums of family and familiar places Short videos of nature scenes or music performances Used thoughtfully, these tools ...

Living with dementia changes how a person communicates, remembers, and relates to the world. That can be confusing and painful, not only for the individual but also for family and friends who want to stay connected in senior assisted living Lakewood . Art therapy gives many seniors another way to express themselves when words are harder to find. Understanding Dementia Through a Creative Lens Dementia affects memory, language, and reasoning, yet the capacity to feel joy, pride, curiosity, and comfort often remains. Art therapy meets seniors where they are by offering activities that do not rely on sharp memory or perfect conversation. A person may have trouble recalling names but still respond deeply to colors, shapes, and textures. Through drawing, painting, collage, clay, or even simple coloring, older adults can show feelings they may struggle to describe. A page filled with bold colors, gentle lines, or repeating patterns can say, “This is what my day feels like,” even when words ar...