Help Manage Disease with an Anti-inflammatory Diet

Medical experts say that while inflammation helps our bodies to fight illness and can be a necessary part of the healing process, there are some people whose immune systems do not work as they should, and they suffer from chronic inflammation.  This condition manifests itself in various diseases including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, asthma and metabolic syndrome (“a collection of conditions that tend to occur together, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease”).

However, the good news is researchers have found evidence that shows our diet may help us manage many of the symptoms of these diseases.  They report that, “An anti-inflammatory diet favors fruits and vegetables, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and spices.”  Foods to avoid or to limit consumption of include processed foods, red meats, and alcohol.

Doctors recommend approaching an anti-inflammatory diet as less of a specific regimen but more as a new, healthier style of eating. Two examples of diets that incorporate anti-inflammatory foods are the Mediterranean and DASH diets which favor foods rich in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids over those that increase the production of free radicals, which are believed to lead to cell damage.  

Research shows that sugary or processed foods can trigger or worsen inflammation, and that some foods such as those fried in very hot cooking oil can trigger the formation of free radicals.  Other factors that can increase the body’s free radicals include stress and smoking.   

The Arthritis Foundation also notes that research has identified foods that can help control inflammation.  These include tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collards, nuts like almonds and walnuts, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, and fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges.  Please keep in mind that anyone with a chronic health condition involving inflammation should consult their healthcare provider about the best dietary options for them.

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.   Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320233#takeaway

Mental Exercise is Essential to Good Brain Health

We all know that even as seniors, physical exercise is important to maintaining healthy bodies but medical experts want us to remember that mental exercise is also essential to good brain health.  Luckily there are many fun and entertaining ways to exercise our mind and include an array of games on our tablets or computers as well as ones that only need pen and paper.  Games like Sudoku, mahjong, chess, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and solitaire are enjoyable and challenging ways to improve memory and stimulate the brain.    

Moreover, there is good evidence that supports this claim such as the study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.  The research team conducted a long-term study that found seniors who did crosswords four day a week had a 47 percent lower risk of dementia than those who only did them once a week.  

Also, while there is the perception that chess is only for those who are very intelligent, it turns out the skills used to play a good game of chess are ones we all should cultivate as they may make us smarter.  Experts say chess encourages “concentration and focus around ‘if then’ thinking, which is useful when making decisions.”  The game forces you to think a few steps ahead and that type of thinking can be especially helpful for older people who are navigating options in life and could use a little help with creative thinking.  

The good news is that many of these types of games are free or cost very little and even the Internet offers lots of options.  To play a game of solitaire, you only need a deck of cards but playing on your tablet offers many different varieties of game of which some may be new to you.  Crossword and Sudoku books as well as jigsaw puzzles can be ordered online and are very reasonably priced for the amount of entertainment you get.  They also make great gifts for seniors.  

We want you to know that MorningStar of Boulder is safely accepting new residents, and we are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus.  Our community offers 48 beautiful assisted living suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options.  We also have 46 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We encourage you to visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s mission of servant-leadership.   

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Source: sixtyandme.com/keep-your-brain-buzzing-with-these-free-brain-games-for-seniors/

Send Your Elderly Loved One a Comfort Basket

If you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community and they are isolating themselves from the coronavirus, you probably would love to do something to brighten their day but just not sure how.  One idea is to send them a “comfort 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.  Are they a chocolate lover 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.   A collection of classic movies is also something many seniors would enjoy.  

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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan’s goal is to provide the best senior living in Centennial, CO.  Our beautiful community has 55 stylish assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, 29 secure suites are devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.           

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.   Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Are You Caring for Both Elderly Parents and Children?

If your responsibilities include caring for elderly parents as well as children still living at home, you are not alone and may be a part of Gen X (Americans born between 1965 and 1980).  Psychologist Jonathon Sikorski, director of wellness education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, explains the problem with the following: “You’re balancing the demands of raising and supporting children and worrying about your parents' independence and well-being. It’s tough,”

Researchers report that around half of all U.S. adults in their 40s or 50s have a parent age 65 or older and are raising a young child or financially supporting a grown child.  Also known as the sandwich generation, many of them provide similar care to both their children and senior parents along with transportation to activities and doctor appointments.  

The constant juggling of caregiver duties can be very stressful. Now add in a global pandemic where vulnerable seniors who are most at risk are being asked to stay home and isolate.  This has created a quandary for many who are trying to safely provide support for elderly parents while not bringing illness into their home.  If you have not considered it before, now may be the perfect time to look into assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Boulder.  We are safely accepting new residents and abiding by guidelines – and in many cases exceeding them – set by the CDC, American Senior Housing Association and Federal government to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof.  

MorningStar of Boulder’s goal is to provide the best assisted living Boulder Colorado offers, which includes hiring individuals who have a real calling to serve seniors. Our assisted living is ideal for those who need help with daily activities they can no longer completely manage for themselves. We provide nutritional daily meals, socialization, and offer medication management and transportation services.  Please visit our website for more information.     

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the best assisted living Boulder Colorado has to offer.

We're in This Together

As many of us know, cooperating and caring for others are traits that make us happy, and an expert hopes the coronavirus pandemic will encourage people to practice these qualities even more so across the globe.  The co-director of the Wellbeing programming at the LSE’s Centre for Economic Performance, Prof Richard Layard explains that “To get through this we’re going to have to develop a much higher level of social responsibility. Some people are going to have to stay in quarantine, and others are going to have to support them to do that. My hope is that it will encourage a move from an atomized society to a much more caring one.” 

Thus we need to remember that it is not “us against them” but rather it is all of us against this virus, and that we are in this together.  Moreover, social scientists say that it is the feeling of powerlessness that makes us unhappy, and when we take control, especially in times such as these, it helps us to cope.  

Vanessa King, lead psychologist for Action for Happiness, the UK partner organization to the World Happiness Report, gives us some tips for finding happiness.  She says we should all be conscientious about how much news we consume each day.  While it is okay to update ourselves with the situation at hand, it does not help to obsess.  Instead make sure to stay in touch with people including your family and friends as well as someone you care about that may not have a good social network. 

When we concern ourselves with the welfare of others, it helps us to feel good. Remember even when we practice social distancing, we can still be friendly and smile at others.  You will feel better inside as you spread a little cheer.   

MorningStar at Jordan offers 55 bright suites for assisted living and 29 secure memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about our community including our new protocols in the fight against the coronavirus.

MorningStar at Jordan offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source:theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/20/happiness-is-contagious-too-caring-for-each-other-makes-us-feel-better-experts

Remember to Stay Hydrated as the Temperatures Soar

Now that summer is here seniors need to remember to stay hydrated as the temperatures warm up.  There are several reasons why the elderly are more at risk for dehydration starting with the fact that as we age, our sense of thirst diminishes so we may forget to drink.  In addition, medications commonly prescribed to seniors such as diuretics, antipsychotics and corticosteroids can affect a senior’s ability to maintain fluids.  Also, our bodies do not conserve fluids as well as when we were younger.  Lastly it can be difficult for older adults to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, which may cause them to overheat quicker.   

Dehydration can also occur in individuals with dementia as the disease causes them to forget to eat and drink, and in the more advanced stages, many people have trouble swallowing.  Furthermore, seniors with incontinent problems sometimes purposely limit their fluid intake as a way to avoid accidents.    

Whatever the reason, dehydration can lead to serious health problems and as the outside temperatures soar, seniors must take care.  Experts recommend seniors get about 64 ounces of fluids a day, and in hot and humid weather or any changes in medical conditions or medications, you may need to drink even more. 

To make it easier to drink more water, try mixing in a little juice or fruit or add a flavored water enhancer.  Other types of foods that help increase your fluid intake include savory broths, fruits such as watermelon, grapes, oranges and cantaloupe, smoothies, and herbal iced teas.           

At MorningStar of Boulder, our goal is to provide the best assisted living Boulder Colorado offers, and we understand the need for seniors to take extra care during the summer months.  Our excellent food service is comprised of lots of fresh foods and healthy, refreshing beverages.  Please see our website for more information about our community as well as our coordinated defense in the fight against the coronavirus to ensure the health of both residents and team members.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the best assisted living Boulder Colorado has to offer.

MorningStar of Boulder Proudly Welcomes Military Veterans

MorningStar of Boulder is dedicated to providing the finest assisted living Boulder Colorado offers, and we proudly welcome military veterans to our community.  Throughout all of MorningStar’s communities, we are privileged to have veterans from all five branches of military service call us home.   

Whenever we hear that veterans or families of vets are interested in our community, we are pleased to direct them to local resources that can help to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance.” This is a monthly benefit payment allocated by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to certain wartime veterans and their survivors who qualify for financial need and have a doctor’s order for regular assistance with daily living activities.    

Additional qualifications for the vets include having served at least 90 days of active duty, of which at least one day was spent serving during a period of a foreign war.  Also, the vet must not have been dishonorably discharged.  The Aid & Attendance benefit does not require the vet to have served overseas, seen combat or retired from the military.  For surviving spouses to be eligible for the benefit, they must have been married to the vet at the time of their death and never remarried.    Feel free to contact us about how best to secure this well-deserved, tax-free benefit. It’s our pleasure to present options, though, of course, how you proceed is entirely up to you.

MorningStar of Boulder has 48 private assisted living suites with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 46 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information about the Aid & Attendance benefit and our exceptional community.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest”, sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to learn more about the best assisted living Boulder Colorado has to offer.

Keeping Skin Healthy Despite Frequent Hand Washing and Sanitizing

People with eczema and psoriasis as well as those with very dry skin may be exacerbating the problem with the excessive hand washing and hand sanitizers we are using to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.  To provide some relief, the Medical News Today provides useful information from several experts including Dr. Zainab Laftah, consultant dermatologist and a spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, on how to avoid or treat some of these issues.   

Dr. Laftah starts by explaining that, “Repetitive use of hand sanitizers and hand washing can strip the proteins in the epidermis (top skin layer), leading to a compromise of the skin barrier and, therefore, the risk of infection. Additionally, soaps can give rise to irritant hand dermatitis, which presents as dry, flaky, itchy red skin, particularly in the finger web spaces and on the knuckles.”  

For those with preexisting skin conditions, she recommends using a moisturizer daily and to try a moisturizing hand soap with antibacterial ingredients such as chlorhexidine or benzalkronium chloride.  However, please know that recent studies have found “hand sanitizers containing these biocidal ingredients were less effective than alcohol-based hand gels at eradicating the coronavirus.” 

In addition to moisturizing or applying emollients repeatedly throughout the day, be sure to dry your hands thoroughly every time you wash them.  This helps prevent germs from transferring between moist hands as well as reduces the drying effect water has on our skin’s natural oils.  Dr. Laftah adds that “moisturizer that lathers can act as a soap substitute and will be less drying on the hands; therefore, those with cracked skin may find this more soothing.”

Other tips include moisturizing right before bed and then putting on cotton gloves to help lock in moisture.  Also when using cleaning products or if your hands will be in water for a period of time such as washing dishes, wear latex or rubber gloves. 

At MorningStar at Jordan, an assisted living and memory care community in Centennial, CO, we offer compassionate 24/7 care services as well as a full complement of resort-style amenities.  Also, please know that during the coronavirus outbreak, we are staying abreast of any updates and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American Senior Housing Association and Federal government.

MorningStar at Jordan offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Source:www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hand-washing-advice-for-people-with-skin-conditions#Minimizing-the-impact-of-hand-washing

Learn More About Hearing Loss

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports that one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and nearly half of those 75 and older have some difficultly hearing.  This can cause seniors to experience difficulty understanding and following doctor's orders, responding to warnings, and hearing doorbells and alarms.”  Hearing loss can leave people feeling isolated as they have problems following and engaging in conversations with family and friends.   

The medical term for hearing loss is presbycusis; and typically starts gradually by affecting the ability to hear higher pitched sounds.  A person may feel like the volume is loud enough on the TV but the dialogue is mumbled.   Experts explain this is caused by the loss of nerve hair cells in the Cochlea or the deterioration of other parts of the inner ear or auditory nerves.   Generally age-related hearing loss affect both ears equally.  

High blood pressure and diabetes, both common health conditions in older adults, can also affect the hearing as does some types of chemotherapy drugs.  Furthermore, people of all ages are at risk of hearing loss with long-term exposure to loud noise such as on a jobsite.  

If you or a loved one seems to be having trouble hearing, NIDCD has a checklist of questions to answer.  For example, do you feel frustrated when talking to members of your family because you have difficulty hearing them?  Do you have difficulty hearing when someone speaks in a whisper? Do you feel restricted or limited by a hearing problem?   If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, discuss the problem with your health care provider.  They will refer you to an otolaryngologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, throat, and neck.  If a problem is found, you will be referred to an audiologist who will determine the type and degree of hearing loss.   From there you may be fitted for a hearing aid. 

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 Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.   Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Compassionate Memory Care at MorningStar of Boulder

While there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s and many other dementia-related diseases, it is important to provide the person with the proper level of care.  At MorningStar of Boulder our goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, and we have the amenities and services to ensure the comfort, safety and wellbeing of our memory care residents.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood has 46 suites that are completely devoted to the individualized care of residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  We are proud of our staff that is trained in progressive therapeutic approaches to palliate symptoms for our special residents.  

The creative side of our care begins with learning about each resident.  We interview the family to get a thorough understanding of a person’s history, and use that knowledge to aid in their care and to develop a trust between the resident and our care team.  We use gentle, resident-directed methods to calm and awaken memories and to support each resident’s capabilities.  Common techniques include using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy as well as a range of meaningful and purposeful activities that incorporate art, music, and life skills.   

To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure patio and courtyard reserved just for memory care residents.  Also bear in mind that we accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  

Along with memory care, MorningStar of Boulder offers exceptional assisted living.   Please visit our website to learn more about our memory care as well as the many resort-style amenities and services we provide to all residents.  While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community.

Father's Day is June 21st

Especially in these unusual times when many of us will be unable to visit an elderly loved one, we want to make sure our parents or grandparents know how special they are to us.  With Father’s Day just around the corner, let dad or grandpa know that while they may be out of sight, they are not out of mind.  

So what is a good gift that lets him know he is not forgotten?  As you know dad best, ask yourself if he’s a guy who loves practical gifts, tech toys or something on the humorous side?  I know many dads may not buy one themselves but would love a plush new bathrobe; so why not personalize it with a monogram?  If he is more of a t-shirt kind of guy, order him a personalized shirt.  A popular one has handprints with the names of all the grandchildren and a message calling him out as “Hands Down Best Grandpa,” or how about one that says “Great Dads Make Great Grandpas?” 

If dad gets chilly and loves to fish, how about getting him a cozy throw decorating with fish bearing the names of his grandkids.  Another idea is an indoor gardening kit for the dad who loves to grow things.  If granddad is a gamer at heart, how about getting him a lap-sized Nintendo Switch.  A recent study showed in addition to fun, 3D-platform games can help improve cognitive health.  Don’t forget the gift of music or audio books targeted to his interests, and if he doesn’t already own a set, consider noise cancelling headphones for the ultimate listening experience.  If dad still gets around, a step tracking device is a fun way to keep him moving. 

While the MorningStar senior living communities are temporarily closed to non-essential visitors, we are still open to the love that is pouring in for our residents.  At MorningStar at Jordan, we are still accepting assisted living and memory care residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.    Please visit our website and take a virtual tour of our beautiful community. 

MorningStar at Jordan offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents.  Please give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Do You Have a Big Heart and a Love for Seniors?

In today’s world, it sometimes feels as if we are chasing after all of the wrong things.  Many of us hold jobs that do not offer much personal satisfaction nor bring us to work each day with a smile on our face.   At our beautiful Denver senior living communities, we are proud to say we are a workplace that offers just that and much more.    

Each position within our communities is essential to providing the exemplary care we have built our reputation on and includes various roles required to keep our residents healthy and happy.  As true residential homes, our care continues around the clock so some of our positions are evening, night and weekend shifts with both full and part-time available.  We offer competitive wages and a full array of health benefits including medical, vision and dental care as well as vacation, sick and holiday pay.   

Some of the assisted living jobs in Denver’s MorningStar communities include care manager, medication care manager, cook, dining room server, concierge, housekeeping, and more.  Furthermore, regardless of the job, we seek individuals who share our core values of love, kindness, goodness, honesty, fairness, and want to help advance our mission.  Lastly, we need men and women who understand that seniors deserve to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.    

Join us in building a team of service professionals who feel called, connected and empowered.  Listen to what one MorningStar team member says about the joys of serving others: “People always ask me why I love my job so much. For me it’s not always about money, but the difference you can make in someone’s life. MorningStar has done so much for me in the short time I have been here. Not only am I changing residents’ lives, but they are changing mine.”  

Finally, we want to reassure you that during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we are safely hiring, and taking every precaution to keep our team safe at work.  While our career opportunities are diverse, all require individuals with big hearts and a love for seniors. Please see our website for a full list of opening positions.  

At MorningStar Senior Living, our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities.  We are committed to a foundation built upon honoring God and valuing all seniors, and are currently recruiting staff with a felt calling to serve seniors.  If you have a commitment to service, we encourage you to visit MorningStar’s Career page for information on how to apply for assisted living jobs in Denver CO.

Are You Finding Walking Difficult?

If you or a loved one is starting to feel less steady on your feet and at risk of falling, a walker, cane or even a wheelchair or scooter is probably advisable.  However, before you start using a hand-me-down walker or buy any-old cane; experts warn that one size does not fit all.  In the case of a walker, to be an effective and safe mobility aid, it is important to have an expert help you pick out the best type and size for your needs.  

As AgingCure.com points out, “The wrong device can negatively affect a senior’s stability, cause posture-related problems and even result in pain. Mobility aids come in all shapes and sizes, so selecting the right equipment and achieving a proper fit usually requires a professional’s assistance and expertise.”  To get started determining what your needs are, experts recommend seeing your healthcare provider to discuss any problems you are having with your activities of daily living (ADLs).  If they recognize a need for a mobility aid, they may refer you to an occupational or physical therapist. 

The following are a couple of basic guidelines to know before you get started.  A cane can help provide balance and stability and is ideal for someone who needs to support no more than 25% of their body weight.  It is most useful for those minimally impaired or with weakness in one leg.   Walkers are available in a variety of models but regardless of the style a “correct height of a walker is measured from the floor to the wrist, and the elbows should be flexed in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.”  Experts also say the walker must be large enough to provide front and side support for the user.  

A motorized scooter may be the answer for someone who has lost the ability to walk any distance but still has an adequate amount of strength in their arms and upper body to stay upright as well as drive the scooter.  Again there are a variety of models including indoor and outdoor ones as well.  Keep in mind though that most insurance companies and Medicare Part B typically only cover scooters for in-house use.    

MorningStar at Jordan embodies the finest senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  We strive to provide a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living, memory care and respite care.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/expert-advice-how-to-choose-a-mobility-aid-190138.htm

June is the Time to Celebrate Our Fathers

Father’s Day was first officially celebrated in the United State on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington.  It then took another 58 years (in 1972) after President Woodrow Wilson had declared Mother’s Day to be an official holiday for dads to get their own official national holiday.  This year Father’s Day is June 21, as the holiday is celebrated on the third Sunday of the month.   

The earliest public event honoring fathers was in 1908 at a West Virginia church.  It was held in memory of 362 area men who had been killed in a tragic coal mine accident the year before.  It was a one-time commemoration and not intended to be an annual holiday.   

The first recognized celebration of all fathers took place at the Spokane, WA YMCA on June 19, 1910.  It was organized by Sonora Smart Dodd.  Her father, William Jackson Smart was a single parent who raised six children.  Ms. Dodd had heard a sermon about the Mother’s Day celebration at Central Methodist Episcopal Church a year earlier and encouraged her church to have a similar event honoring fathers.  She had wanted it to be on her father’s birthday, June 5th, but her church’s pastors needed more time to prepare sermons so it was held on the third Sunday of the month.   

Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts and certainly deserve to have their “own day;” however getting fathers nationally recognized was not as easy as it had been to get a designated national holiday for mothers.  Throughout the years there were efforts to make it a national holiday but it never moved forward.  It wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson issued a presidential proclamation honoring fathers, and designated the third Sunday as Father’s Day.  In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed the holiday into law. 

At MorningStar of Boulder, we offer outstanding assisted living and memory care for our area’s beloved “mothers” and “fathers.”  Beautifully situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains on the southeast side of the city, our community was designed to meet residents every need.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing.  

MorningStar of Boulder proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Seniors Need a Great Team of Doctors

If you have reached your 60s, or for some of us, even our 50s, you need to a have great team of doctors on your side.  This should include physicians with experience that has focused on health conditions common to seniors, and who are attuned to the multitude of changes that aging has on our bodies, our minds, and our lifestyle.  

You also want health care providers who actually listen to you and then talk to you.  Dr. Michael Wasserman, a geriatrician and board member of the American Geriatrics Society's Health in Aging Foundation, stresses that good listening ability is the first personality trait to look for in your doctor.   

If you are shopping for a new physician due to a move or other circumstances, ask friends and neighbors for a reference.  Once you call, find out if they are accepting new patients, and if not, how long is the waitlist.  In addition, before you make your first appointment, ask if they accept your insurance including your various Medicare plans, and if medical help is available when the office is closed.   

Dr. Wasserman also cautions that a conservative approach to treating aging patients may be the best one. He explains, "You need clinicians who show a lot of caution before putting an older person on a medication, before sending him off to a specialist, before doing tests and before putting him into the hospital.”

At MorningStar of Boulder, our goal is to provide the best assisted living Boulder, Colorado offers, and we understand that the best care comes from the heart.  Our loving home promotes a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community and offers an array of comprehensive care services.  These include transportation to doctor appointments, routine care planning reviews, scheduled health & wellness evaluations and physician visits.  

Please see our website for more information about our exceptional community.  While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Boulder, Colorado has to offer.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/11-things-seniors-should-look-for-in-a-health-provider?slide=6

Safety and Wellbeing at MorningStar of Boulder

At MorningStar of Boulder, we are committed to provide the best memory care and assisted living Boulder, Colorado offers, and our beautiful community was designed from the ground up to ensure our cherished residents’ safety and wellbeing.  One of the ways we do this is by providing each of our residents with around-the-clock care from our compassionate team of care managers.  This includes assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and eating as well as needed medical assistance.  Each of our care managers is hired for their loving nature and their desire to serve seniors.

Our medication care managers/QMAPs are another way we help to keep our residents safe.  In fact, a National Institutes of Health study found that 40% of seniors aged 65 and older take five or more prescription medications, and 90% take at least one prescription. The same study reports that as many of 55% of seniors take their medications incorrectly.  MorningStar’s med managers will oversee both the ordering and supervised administration of a resident’s medications.  

Each of MorningStar of Boulder’s 48 bright assisted living suites is equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all have handicap-accessible bathrooms as well as wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, large windows and lots of lighting.  Of course our entire community is handicap accessible with wide doorways, spacious common areas and hallways.  

Reflections Neighborhood, our memory care area, is designed to encourage our most tender residents to explore their spacious surroundings easily and safely.  We offer 46 secure memory care suites in a range of floor plans.

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. Please see our website for updates on the changes we have made to help keep our community safe during this difficult time.   

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Boulder, Colorado has to offer.

Take a Virtual Tour of MorningStar at Jordan

MorningStar at Jordan wants you to know that we are accepting new assisted living and memory care residents, and that we have every confidence in the safety protocols we are taking in our aggressive defense against the coronavirus (COVID-19).  During normal times, interested seniors and their families are encouraged to set up in-person tours of our beautiful home.  However, as we have temporarily suspended all non-essential visitors and vendors from entering our community for the safety of our residents and team members during the coronavirus outbreak, we invite you to visit our website and take a virtual tour.

Here you will get a good look at some of our open common areas including dining rooms library, theater, salon and more.  You will also get a chance to see our well-appointed suites.  In addition, we share background on some of the guiding principles of MorningStar Senior Living including our mission statement and core values consisting of Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness. 

We think it is important for families to know that we have been very deliberate in putting into place a coordinated defense of every aspect of our operations and have built layer upon layer of protocols as information evolves.  MorningStar is following closely—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American Senior Housing Association and Federal government to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof. 

Please visit our website to learn more about Centennial, Colorado’s most trusted senior living.  To give you comfort regarding our care during these unusual times, we would like to share just one of the letters MorningStar has received from our families.  They write, “Although, it is difficult not being able to visit our loved ones, I am so grateful for the proactive stand you are taking. Our parents could not be in a better place.”  Contact us to learn more about our home, our pricing and available suites.   

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Learn More About Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and up until recently offered few options in terms of treatment.  Typical treatments included prescription drugs to help alleviate symptoms and/or a special device implanted in patients, used to help control tremors.  

However since Parkinson’s affects the whole body, doctors and researchers have been looking at different complementary and alternative methods to treat the many symptoms of the disease.  The U.S. News and World Report published an article describing some of those different methods of treatment.   

As Parkinson’s occurs when dopamine-producing cells in the brain stem die off, doctors say exercise is key to managing some of the effects of Parkinson’s.  Dr. Dean Sutherland, a neurologist and Parkinson’s disease specialist in Sarasota, Florida, explains, “Exercise releases dopamine into the same parts of the brain that are stimulated by taking medication. That helps with motor issues like stiffness, tremors and muscle freezing.”

Other activities that appear to help patients with Parkinson’s disease include massage therapy to help alleviate stiffness and pain; and acupuncture, which helps some people reduce tremors and also relieves stiff muscles and pain.   Physical therapy appears to help patients improve balance and gait as well as flexibility.  There are even programs specifically targeted to Parkinson’s patients that focus on teaching them to take bigger steps to avoid common walking problems such as shuffling.   

In addition, people with Parkinson’s are discovering that alternative treatments such as singing can help improve voice volume, which in turn, can improve their social interactions.  When you can control the volume of your voice to be heard by others, you are more likely to feel comfortable interacting socially.  Another thing proving to be helpful to people with balance problems is aqua therapy.  Parkinson’s patients have found that being in the water gives them the freedom to move about without the fear of falling.  And finally as swallowing can become difficult for some people with Parkinson’s, swallowing therapy is also recommended.  

At MorningStar of Boulder, we offer a wide range of care services including physical, occupational, respiratory, speech, and massage therapy.  We have 48 suites for assisted living and 46 suites dedicated to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  Please visit our website for more information.

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 proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in the area.

Now May Be the Time for Your Parents to Move into Assisted Living

Now may be the time to consider moving your parents into assisted living as a way to ensure they get the daily support they need in a safe, comfortable environment.  Assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Jordan provide all of the comforts and care residents need to thrive!

Assisted living also provides peace of mind if your mom or dad has poor balance or failing eyesight, which can increase the likelihood of a fall, and not having help close at hand can be dangerous.  In addition, if a parent no longer drives, it may be difficult for them to get groceries and other necessary supplies including prescription medications or to see a doctor.

MorningStar at Jordan provides assisted living residents help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) to help maintain their independence.  Residents and their families take comfort knowing our trained care managers are there to help them navigate through any changes in their health condition.  And if you wondered, couples can live together in their own suites, surrounded by their own treasured possessions, or a suite can be shared by friends who enjoy one another’s company. 

Another thing you will no longer have to worry about is whether mom or dad is getting enough good, healthy food to eat.  MorningStar’s daily meals feature the freshest ingredients and are prepared using the highest quality produce, often homegrown and locally sourced as we know there is nothing like fresh foods to stimulate the senses and the appetite.   

Finally, MorningStar wants you to know that during this time of the coronavirus outbreak, our highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents, their families and our staff; and we could not be more vigilant in our defensive approach. We are staying abreast of its real time status and closely following—in many cases, exceeding—guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure the health and well-being of all beneath our roof.

Along with 55 assisted living suites, we also have 29 suites dedicated to providing memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please see our website for more information.   

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care.

Help Your Loved Ones Stay Socially Connected

If you have elderly loved ones who are living alone or in a senior living community that has halted visits due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the AARP offers several things you can do to help them stay socially connected and avoid feeling isolated.  Remember one of the most important things we can do is to let them know they are loved and missed.  

The easiest way you can do this is through frequent phone calls, but also don’t forget other ways of communicating such as sending a letter or greeting card through the snail mail reminding them you are thinking of them.  Include the kids by having them draw a picture for grandma or grandpa or if they are old enough, have them also write a letter.  

It definitely makes it more personal to stay in touch if your parent has a computer or a smart device that lets you FaceTime or Skype on a regular basis and the AAPR has some ideas of how to use video-calling to keep it fun.  One suggestion if your kids are young is to arrange to have grandma or grandpa read books to them over a video-call (if they do not have suitable books, go online and send them some).  Or if your child is learning to read, have them read to their grandparents.  

Another thing you can do is schedule a meal to be delivered to them from a local carry out place or from a service such as Grubhub, and settle down and enjoy sharing a meal with them while video chatting.  In addition, conversation starters can include watching the same movie or documentary and then spend time talking about it, or setting up a game or chessboard and playing the game together over the phone.   

For the area’s finest memory care and assisted living, Boulder, Colorado area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Boulder.  We are still accepting residents during this difficult time, confident in our protective protocols.  Please see our website for more information about our community and a message from the CEO detailing our coronavirus response.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Boulder, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Boulder, Colorado has to offer.

Source: 

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2020/boost-morale-during-coronavirus.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R4-POS2-REALPOSS-TODAY