MorningStar Senior Living Community Blog

You only get one body and, when you’re getting up there in years, you want to do all you can to keep it healthy. While some factors can negatively impact your immune system (like stress and sleep deprivation), you can also take steps to ensure it’s performing its best for you. By taking a few extra steps, you can help keep yourself as healthy as possible this flu season. Eat a Balanced Diet Eating a healthy diet full of the right nutrients is one of the best things you can do to keep your immune system up to par. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those high in vitamin C and beta carotene, can give your immune system the extra nutrients it needs to fight infection. Try to eat plenty of lean protein as well, which can include both animal sources (chicken, beef, fish) and plant-based sources (legumes, soy, nuts, and seeds). Your body needs amino acids for its natural immune response, and proteins provide them. Exercise Exercising regularly is important for so many reasons...

Simplifying and downsizing your life can be an emotional experience. You might be moving to a new place, such as senior living Lakewood , or just want to downsize your possessions. Either way, decluttering can make you feel liberated, so here are a few tips on how to make that process easier and more manageable. 1. Start Early and Take It One Step at a Time Decluttering your whole house in one go can feel like a daunting task, so instead, start early and give yourself enough time. It is also recommended to take it one room at a time and not to rush through each stage. Break things down into manageable steps, even smaller ones like just a closet or a bookshelf. This way, you will have enough time to process through all of your items, especially those with sentimental value, and keep stress at a minimum. 2. Sort and Categorize As you begin to go through your belongings, categorize them as you sort. This will give you an idea of what you are working with and how to tackle each pile: Keep:...

Summer’s heat, storms, and power outages in senior living Lakewood can be more than an inconvenience. A “ready-set-go” checklist for your home will help you, and your loved ones, age in place comfortably. Go inside your house and start with air conditioning. If you have central air, have your system serviced by a professional before the mercury soars. A technician will clean coils, inspect refrigerant levels, and replace filters to increase efficiency and decrease energy bills. Window units should have vents vacuumed and side panels replaced to fit tightly and prevent hot air leaks. Windows are one of the first lines of defense. Check window seals for air leaks. Replace any cracked or brittle weather stripping and apply reflective film or interior cellular shades to further prevent solar heat gain. During the day, close curtains on the south and west sides of the house. Lightning and electrical storms are fire risks. Install whole house surge protectors or plug sensitive electronics s...

Healthy nails should not concern you. But they are like a smoke detector of hidden problems that show up before other signs are evident. In memory care catching a clue and scheduling a medical check up may provide you time to nip something in the bud. Thin nails with pale or white nail beds are sometimes an early indication of anemia or poor blood circulation. If accompanied by unusual fatigue or shortness of breath, check with your physician in senior apartments Lakewood about having a complete blood count. Deep red or purplish nails may indicate a heart or lung disorder that is not delivering sufficient oxygen. Beau's lines are horizontal ridges across the nail that develop weeks after a serious illness, surgical procedure or even a period of severe emotional stress. One line across a nail means that portion of the nail growth cycle was affected by the event. Several Beau's lines across several nails can mean the illness or stress had a systemic effect. Show your doctor the ...

When spring rolls in with blooming flowers or fall hits with drifting leaves, many seniors sneeze, sniffling, or rubbing itchy eyes. Seasonal allergies aren’t just for kids and teens. They can show up later in life or become more noticeable as immune responses change with age. The good news in memory care is that there are plenty of practical ways to manage symptoms while still enjoying the outdoors. Recognize the symptoms Allergy symptoms often mimic a cold: sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, runny nose, and fatigue. The key difference is that allergies don’t come with a fever and tend to stick around longer. Pollen could be the culprit if symptoms always appear during the same season. Know your triggers Pollen is a major one, but mold, dust, and grass can also be problems. Try to track when symptoms flare up — is it after a walk outside or while gardening? That information helps doctors suggest the proper treatment or prevention steps. Keep windows closed during high pollen days It c...

It’s no secret that technology makes life easier in so many ways in assisted living lakewood . Video calls, text messages, social media—they help us stay connected, even across miles. But too much screen time can quietly replace deeper, more meaningful human interactions if we're not careful. Finding a healthy balance between digital life and real-world relationships doesn't mean giving up your favorite apps. It just means being more intentional about how you use them. Recognize the Signs of Digital Overload Sometimes it’s subtle. You realize you’re checking your phone without even thinking about it. Or conversations feel rushed because you’re distracted by notifications. You might notice: Feeling restless or anxious after scrolling Having trouble focusing during in-person conversations Missing moments happening right in front of you Catching these patterns early helps you reset before technology starts pulling you away from real life. Set Tech-Free Zones One simple trick is to...

Ever feel like your energy levels aren’t what they used to be? You’re not alone. Many seniors notice a dip in stamina, but the good news is there are plenty of natural ways to bring that pep back into your step. The key isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about working smarter and giving your body the right tools to stay energized all day long. At assisted living Lakewood, we see firsthand how small, simple changes can lead to big improvements in energy levels. Start Your Day with Hydration Before reaching for coffee, try drinking a glass of water first. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of fatigue, and as we age, our sense of thirst isn’t as sharp. Easy ways to stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day. Add flavor with lemon, cucumber, or herbal teas. Eat water-rich foods like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers. Hydration is a simple fix that can make a noticeable difference in how you feel. Eat for Energy—Not Just to Eat Food is fuel, and choosing th...

Many older adults experience dips in energy, but that doesn’t mean you have to rely on caffeine or sugary snacks. With a few simple lifestyle changes, you can naturally restore your vitality and feel more energized in senior living Lakewood and beyond. 1. Stay Hydrated Dehydration is a huge energy drainer, yet it often goes unnoticed. As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes, making it easier to forget to drink enough water. Sipping on herbal tea, eating water-rich foods like cucumbers and melons, and keeping a glass of water nearby can help maintain energy levels throughout the day. 2. Prioritize Quality Sleep Getting enough rest is crucial, but so is sleep quality. Avoid heavy meals or caffeine late in the evening, and create a relaxing bedtime routine. Many in memory care Lakewood find that limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule leads to more restful nights. 3. Eat for Energy Processed foods and refined sugars may provide a quick boost, but th...

There’s something about spring that naturally lifts the spirits—flowers bloom, birds sing, and the days feel just a bit brighter. But beyond the fresh air and sunshine, spending time outdoors can have a real, positive impact on mental health, especially for seniors. Even simple activities like a walk in the garden or sitting on a sunny bench can make a noticeable difference in mood, energy, and overall well-being. In assisted living Lakewood, spring is the perfect time for residents to take advantage of outdoor spaces. Whether it's gardening, group walks, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee on the patio, the benefits go far beyond just soaking up the sun. Sunshine Lifts Your Mood Exposure to natural sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is linked to improved mood and decreased feelings of depression. Sunshine also helps regulate sleep patterns by balancing melatonin levels. Spending just 15-30 minutes outdoors each day can make a big difference in how you feel. For senio...

Many of us have been embarrassed by forgetting someone’s name when we unexpectedly see them or missing an appointment. The Medical News Today (MNT) describes short-term memory as the brain systems involved in storing information for short periods, usually up to about 30 seconds. Short-term memory typically holds about seven pieces of information at a time. Our long-term memory is where old memories are stored. Experts remind seniors not all problems with memory loss are caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia but rather some are age-related or caused by outside factors. One example is sleep as research shows lack of sleep interferes with short-term memory and is vital to memory consolidation, which is the process of preserving key memories and discarding excessive or irrelevant information. Drinking too much alcohol and using recreational drugs also interfere with memory consolation; and overtime can cause irreversible damage to both short and long-term memory. Other i...

Driving is often seen as a symbol of independence, especially as we age. It gives us the freedom to go where we want, when we want. But there comes a time when continuing to drive might no longer be the safest choice—for ourselves and for others on the road. Recognizing when it’s time to hang up the keys isn’t always easy, but it’s an important part of staying safe and protecting your well-being. Signs It Might Be Time to Reconsider Driving: Frequent Close Calls or Minor Accidents – If you’ve noticed more near misses, dents, or scrapes on your car, it could signal slower reaction times or difficulty judging distances. Difficulty Seeing Road Signs or Traffic Signals – Vision changes are common with age. If reading street signs or recognizing traffic lights from a distance is harder than it used to be, it could impact safe driving. Confusion or Disorientation While Driving – Getting lost on familiar routes or feeling overwhelmed by busy intersections are serious red flags that shouldn’t ...

Along with independent and assisted living, Hayward, CA’s MorningStar community offers holistic care to those with memory impairment and provides all the amenities and services needed for the best life possible. Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need. While a secure area, independence is encouraged and supported through clear wayfinding, and safe and inviting common areas, both inside and out. When a family comes to MorningStar of Hayward looking for care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, our experienced team is ready to help. Even before we welcome a new resident to our loving community, we take the time to meet with them and their family to learn as much as we can about the person including their medical history, background, talents, and personal preferences. We then use this information to create an individualized care plan that is used to stimulate or calm a resident in response to a particul...

Have you noticed yourself turning up the TV a little louder than usual? Or maybe you find it harder to follow conversations in busy places, like restaurants or family gatherings. If so, it might not just be background noise — these could be early signs of hearing loss. Hearing loss can creep in slowly, making it tough to notice right away. But catching it early can make a world of difference, especially for seniors in assisted living who value staying connected with friends, family, and community activities. Here are some common signs to watch for: Frequently asking people to repeat themselves – If “What did you say?” has become a regular phrase, it could signal that your hearing isn’t as sharp as it once was. Struggling with conversations in noisy settings – Environments like dining halls or social events can make it tough to hear. If background noise drowns out voices, it’s a red flag. Turning up the TV or radio volume – If others complain that the TV is too loud, it’s worth paying ...

Are you considering a community setting for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia? Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about senior living communities offering memory care is whether they are up to the task of caring for your loved one. Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road? A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need. Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one. Do they tend to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors? Do they require help with eating and drinking? Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker? Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes. Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one , now ask questions about how...

Music is more than just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool that can improve mental health and well-being. For residents in memory care Newport Beach, music therapy has become a popular and effective way to boost mood, reduce anxiety, and even enhance memory . Whether listening to a favorite tune or participating in a group sing-along, music can transform how we feel. What Is Music Therapy? Music therapy is the use of music-based activities to address emotional, cognitive, and physical needs. Led by trained professionals, it involves: Singing Playing instruments Movement or dance to music Listening to specific playlists designed to evoke positive memories This structured approach tailors music to each individual’s preferences and therapeutic goals. 5 Ways Music Therapy Benefits Mental Health 1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Music has a calming effect on the brain, helping to lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation. Soft, soothing melodies are particularly effective in reducing feeling...

Winter can be a tough time for many, especially with shorter days and chilly weather keeping us indoors. For some, this shift can lead to feelings of sadness or fatigue, often called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The good news? Engaging in winter hobbies can brighten your mood and make the season enjoyable. In memory care Lakewood , finding creative and fun ways to spend the winter months is key to staying happy and engaged. Understanding Seasonal Depression SAD is a type of depression triggered by the change in seasons. It’s often linked to a lack of sunlight, which can affect mood-regulating chemicals in the brain. Symptoms might include: Low energy or motivation Difficulty concentrating Feelings of sadness or irritability The key to combating these symptoms is staying active, connected, and engaged. 7 Winter Hobbies to Lift Your Spirits 1. Indoor Gardening Brighten up your space with indoor plants or an herb garden. Tending to plants can be calming, and the greenery adds a touc...

Staying in touch with family who live far away can be challenging, but nurturing those connections is more important than ever. For residents in memory care Newport Beach, maintaining strong ties with loved ones provides comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging, even when separated by miles Why Staying Connected Matters Emotional Well-Being Regular communication with family members can ease feelings of loneliness and keep you emotionally grounded. Strengthening Bonds Frequent contact helps maintain close relationships, ensuring you feel part of your family’s lives and vice versa. Mental Stimulation Conversations, whether in person or virtual, engage the mind and keep memories alive. 5 Creative Ways to Stay in Touch Staying connected doesn’t have to mean long phone calls. Here are some unique ways to keep relationships strong: 1. Schedule Regular Video Calls Use platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype for face-to-face chats. Seeing loved ones can make conversations feel more personal. S...

Stress—it’s something we all deal with, but have you ever noticed how it affects your ability to think clearly? Here at our assisted living Lakewood community, we’ve had many meaningful conversations about the impact of stress, particularly on memory and focus. Understanding the connection between stress and cognitive function can help us take steps to protect our mental well-being. How Stress Impacts the Brain When we’re stressed, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that’s helpful in short bursts but can be harmful over time.Chronic stress floods the brain with cortisol, which can interfere with memory, concentration, and decision-making. Research shows that prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels may even shrink the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. Imagine trying to recall the name of an old friend or the place you left your glasses when your brain feels overloaded. That’s stress in action, making cognitive tasks harder than they need to ...

Glaucoma is one of those conditions we’ve all heard about but might not fully understand until it hits close to home. Known as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams critical. Here at our assisted living Lakewood community , we emphasize staying informed about health advancements, and recent developments in glaucoma treatment are offering hope like never before. What Is Glaucoma? At its core, glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye. Left untreated, it can lead to vision loss or even blindness. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can preserve vision and quality of life. Exciting Advances in Glaucoma Treatment Recent years have brought remarkable innovations to glaucoma management. These breakthroughs mean more effective, less invasive options for patients: Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) Procedures like the iStent and ...