MorningStar at Jordan Offers A Lifestyle of Comfort, Wellness, and Community

If you still think assisted living is an “old person’s home,” you could not be more mistaken. Today’s senior living communities are a far cry from old-fashioned facilities like nursing homes, and offer a vibrant lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. As a resident, you have opportunities to grow, learn and contribute. 

Skilled nursing facilities (SNF) had their beginnings decades ago as “nursing homes,” and in a time when there were few other options for senior care. Today SNF typically focus on short-term rehab including helping patients discharged from the hospital after surgery or illness. SNF staff include RNs and CNAs, and specialize in serving residents in fragile and declining health. 

Assisted living is designed to assist residents with the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as toileting, dressing, and bathing. However, assisted living communities like MorningStar at Jordan provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities, activities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  MorningStar’s services help families by providing transportation to doctor appointments and other errands as well as onsite supportive services from third-party providers including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  Residents have the opportunity for plenty of socializing and are encouraged to participate in a range of activities and wellness programs.  

MorningStar’s services also include providing housekeeping to ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we help residents get the daily nutrition they need.  Moreover, meals are served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room as we believe breaking bread together provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.  We also help with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications.  We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Centennial, CO.  Our beautiful community has 55 stylish suites for assisted living and another 29 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  

MorningStar at Jordan’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Gift Guide for Those with Memory Loss

We all like to give our elderly parents or loved ones a gift to show them just how much we care about them. It is often hard to know what to give to a senior, and especially difficult if a loved one is suffering from dementia.  Experts suggest you help them find ways to reminisce about their lives and accomplishments, and give them things that will bring a smile to their face and some joy into their life.    

Many ideas for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia include personalized gifts.  One such gift is a talking photo book that allows you to record your own personal commentary to go along with each photograph.  This can be a fun book to sit and enjoy with your family member as it helps to trigger memories and conversation.  Many companies offer such books, and prices typically vary with the number of photos and recording time available.  

Buying an interactive book featuring vivid photographs and large print on a subject your mom or dad loves such as animals or flowers can also promote conversation and provide a way to spend relaxing time together.  To ease stress or agitation, you may want to consider getting them a fiddle muff.  A fiddle muff can provide comfort and warmth as well as activity to promote increased hand flexibility and brain stimulation. 

Another meaningful gift is a cozy, customized blanket filled with photos of the grandkids or a beloved family pet.  On the Internet you can find companies that will do a collage of family photos or a singular one in a variety of materials.  Many of the blankets have surprisingly sharp images and can be machine washed and dried.  

If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help.  Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky.  

At MorningStar of Boulder, our goal is to be one of the best assisted living communities in the area, which includes compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents, allowing them as much independence as possible.  Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participants in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events.   Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Since 2003, MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder.

Source: store.best-alzheimers-products.com/alzheimers-dementia-gift-ideas/alzheimers-gift-guide.html

Send Something Special to an Elderly Loved One

Do you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community who lives too far to visit?  How about sending something special to show your thinking of them even if it’s not their birthday or a holiday.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Do they love chocolate or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

MorningStar of Boulder’s goal is to be one of the best assisted living communities in the area, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. And be sure to ask about our limited time savings.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder.

Are You a Senior Who Wants to Start an Exercise Routine?

If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin.  For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did.  And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.  

Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin.  In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints.  Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair.  Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles.

Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere.  The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.  

At MorningStar of Boulder, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Beautifully situated at the foot of the Rockies, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants as well as other services.  Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other assisted living communities and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder.

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible

Are Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Senility the Same Disease?

While most of us have heard of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and senility, we may still be confused wondering if they are all the same thing or different diseases. Doctors explain the terms are often used interchangeably but do have different meanings. Dementia describes a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms that impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities independently. While not an actual disease, the symptoms include memory loss, and difficulty with thinking clearly, making decisions and in some cases, controlling emotions. Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases or conditions.

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease and one form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. The disease was formally recognized in 1906 and named after the German physician, Aloïs Alzheimer, who first described it. Recent advances in medicine have found the brain can show signs of the disease years before the person experiences any symptoms. 

Dementia is typically irreversible but there are some conditions that can cause symptoms of the disease. These include a vitamin deficiency, underactive thyroid gland, depression or stress; and when treated, can reverse the condition. Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease, may also cause symptoms of dementia as can AIDS, Lyme disease and stroke. 

Senility is another term used to describe the type of memory deterioration associated with the elderly. Experts explain there are two major types of senile dementia: “those due to generalized “atrophy” (Alzheimer’s-type dementia) and those due to vascular problems (mainly, strokes).” Symptoms of senility include a decline in cognitive abilities such as problems recalling information and thinking clearly; and Alzheimer’s is the most common form.  

MorningStar of Boulder offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages.  The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar is unique from many other assisted living communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from memory impairment. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs, community meals and more. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest memory care and assisted living communities in Boulder.

Source: alzinfo.org/understand-alzheimers/dementia-vs-alzheimers/

Finding an Assisted Living Community for Yourself or a Loved One

According to the US Census Bureau’s statistics, there were an estimated 56 million adults ages 65 years and older, accounting for approximately 16.8% of the nation's population in July 2022. An aging population means the number of seniors who require help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) will continue to grow as will the necessity for assisted living to address those needs. While assisted living communities vary as do state requirements, generally assisted living is defined as another long-term care option for those who don’t require the kind of 24/7 skilled care found in nursing homes. 

The most common ADLs provided in assisted living include bathing, dressing, toileting, eating or transferring to bed. Rachel Reeves, director of communications for the National Center for Assisted Living, a non-profit organization representing assisted living facilities across the country, explains, "Assisted living really focuses on supporting individuals with those activities, but then also maximizing independence and socialization in a home-like environment.”

So how do you decide the best fit for yourself or a loved one when it comes to an assisted living community? Experts say begin by researching who regulates assisted living in your state and the type of regulations in place. Then begin looking at individual homes. The most important thing is to ensure the home provides the level of care you or your loved one needs now and will need over the next several years as you don’t want to have to make another move in a couple of years. 

Affordability is another consideration. Consulting with an elder care attorney can be helpful in exploring creative ways to pay for assisted living. Also, you will want a location convenient to family and friends, and for getting to doctor appointments, shopping and more. 
 
At MorningStar of Boulder we offer assisted living along with memory care.  As an assisted living resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your needs. 

MorningStar residents enjoy beautifully prepared meals, served restaurant-style and eaten in a relaxed, community setting. We also know it is important for seniors to continue learn and contribute, which is why we offer a wide range of meaningful wellness programs, activities and entertainment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
 
MorningStar of Boulder’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding senior living.

What is Shingles?

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk of getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a washcloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

At MorningStar of Boulder, our goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As memory care specialists, our community also provides suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder. 

Learn More About Assisted Living at MorningStar of Boulder

If you or a loved one needs more care, you may be looking at what assisted living communities have to offer in the Boulder area.  If you would like the freedom to enjoy your retirement years without many worries, we invite you to consider MorningStar of Boulder.  Located on the southeast side of the city, our community is nestled at the foot of the majestic Rockies and conveniently located to hospitals, banks, shopping, restaurants, and grocery stores as well as services in Longmont.

After visiting our website or once you take a tour of our senior living residences, you most certainly will understand why MorningStar of Boulder is the type of assisted living you want for yourself or a loved one.  Along with a whole array of amenities and services and a compassionate, loving team that is honored to value seniors, we also offer well-designed suites to please a variety of tastes and preferences.  

MorningStar of Boulder’s stylish suites are designed for our residents’ utmost comfort and safety and include lots of lighting, high ceilings, large windows,  and wall-to-wall carpeting.  Each unit is equipped with full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, emergency call systems and separate heating and air conditioning controls.  In addition, your monthly fee will include basic cable TV and utilities as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal.   We also offer weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and have onsite laundry facilities available to residents.  

All you need to do is bring your furnishings and personal items to your new home and we will provide the rest including three daily tasty and nutritious meals, a 24/7 care staff, full-time licensed nurse, scheduled transportation and much more.  And in case you wondered, MorningStar of Boulder is pet friendly.  When you visit our website, please use our convenient virtual Community Assistant for information about pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour of our beautiful community.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder, CO.

Assisted Living Communities Meet a Variety of Needs

Senior living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs.  After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support.  For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services.  This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.   

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments.  Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar of Boulder are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were.   To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.  

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones.  In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute.  In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.”  We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of dementia and we want to help in that effort.    

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other assisted living in Boulder.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder, CO.

Numbers Adults Should Know that Can Impact Their Health

Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."  

While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. 

Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL.  

Finally, the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. 

If you are considering assisted living communities in Boulder, CO, MorningStar may be your answer.  MorningStar of Boulder provides residents nutritious meals, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities that promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Staffed by a dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors; we encourage you to visit our website for more information regarding floor plans, list of amenities, pricing and availability. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our principles are based on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Committed to creating a true home for our residents within a beautiful setting, we invite you to set up a visit to experience one of Boulder’s finest assisted living communities.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-202112162660

The Effect Alzheimer’s Disease has on Family Members

The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only impacts the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next. 

Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. 

Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize you need more support and ask for it.  

Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. 

At MorningStar of Boulder, we understand the devastation families feel when they get a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  We know the path going forward is unplanned for, and we consider it our privilege – our calling to walk alongside the memory-impaired and their family on their unexpected journey.  MorningStar offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages.  

The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar is unique from many other assisted living communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from memory impairment. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs, community meals and more. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living or memory care in Boulder, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

Assisted Living Communities Offer a Wide Range of Services

Assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Jordan are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many elderly adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life. 

A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar at Jordan, our Executive Chef specializes in creating tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents.  

Another problem many elderly adults have is managing medications properly. In fact, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people age 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However, experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.”  For this reason, MorningStar offers medication management to our residents.   

Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their golden years and live as comfortably and as safely as possible. To learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in Centennial, CO, please visit our website. 

MorningStar at Jordan’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

Source:  aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/