Are You Trying to Lose a Few Pounds?

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach our goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not over consume.  

This is where portion control plays a part.  Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that whole foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However, to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

MorningStar of Boulder provides residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful community offers a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Contact us or visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other assisted living communities in Boulder, CO.

MorningStar of Boulder 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 set up a tour to see firsthand one of the area’s finest assisted living communities.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

Both Grandparents and Grandchildren Benefit from a Close Relationship

After studying the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, researchers have found it to be mutually beneficial for both parties. Additionally, since people are living longer, these relationships become even more important over time as a 2015 Boston College study reported. The data, collected over a 19-year period, “found that emotionally close ties between grandparents and adult grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms for both.” 

The study’s authors said one of the advantages for older people close to their grandchildren is they are exposed to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Grandchildren benefit from the wisdom grandparents have gained over a lifetime, and can be more open to advice from grandparents than their own parents. Grandparents also have a lot to share regarding the family history, along with the history of our country and the world.  

Another study out of England examining the relationship of children between the ages of 11-16 found children with close relationships to their grandparents had fewer emotional and behavioral problems and fewer difficulties with peers. The bond appears to help lessen the emotional damage children can experience when parents separate or divorce. 

Moreover, as grandparents are typically not authoritarian figures in their grandchildren’s lives, they often act as confidants in situations where an older child might not wish to confide in a parent. Grandparents can be more objective than a parent and may have more time on their hands to really listen to their grandchildren. Another advantage to grandparenting is it gives a person purpose in their later years; however experts say to remember you are a role model for your grandchildren so make sure you are a good one.    

At MorningStar of Boulder, our beautiful 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 comfort and wellbeing.  Visit our website to see what sets us apart from other assisted living communities and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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 amidst a beautiful, tranquil setting, we invite you to set up a visit to experience one of Boulder’s finest assisted living communities.

Source:

bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/2015/12/13/close-grandparent-grandchild-relationships-have-healthy benefits/kxL8AnugpVBKknDuzHZDKO/story.html  

Moving a Parent into Assisted Living Often Causes Feelings of Guilt

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need. 

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living community is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they needed to move to a place where they would receive the proper care. 

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long-run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.  

For exceptional assisted living, Boulder, CO area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Boulder, a true destination for successful aging.  We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 48 bright suites for assisted living in a range of configurations to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, 46 secure suites are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Boulder proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “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 memory care and assisted living Boulder, CO has to offer.

Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

Reduce Your Risk of Falling with Balance Exercises

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than a third of people over the age of 65 suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department.  In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death.  To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.

Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength.  Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed.  The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do.  

One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk.  This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength.  Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides.  Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance.  Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds.  Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps.   

Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides.  Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds.  Now do the same with the other side.  Do each side 3 times.  

At the MorningStar senior living communities we understand the importance of our residents living life to the fullest.  This is why MorningStar at Jordan offers a Life Enrichment program that focuses on creative ways to stay physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually active.  Please see our website for more information.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

MorningStar of 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: healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try

In Addition to the Types of Food You Eat, Pay Attention to Portion Size

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach our goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not overconsume.  

This is where portion control plays a part.  Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that while foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However, to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.”

MorningStar at Jordan provides residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful community offers assisted living and memory care with a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Contact us or visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living communities in Centennial, CO.

MorningStar at Jordan provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement “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.  Visit our website to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in Centennial, CO.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

It is Important for Seniors to Keep Up-to-Date on Health Screenings and Vaccines

Medical experts say while people of all ages should keep up-to-date on recommended health screenings and vaccines, it is especially important for seniors as they have an elevated risk for health problems. Due to the pandemic, statistics show many seniors put off routine medical care, and doctors want them to start scheduling those appointments if they haven’t done so by now. 

Under the umbrella of preventive health services, an annual wellness exam is on the top of the list. This visit is used to check blood pressure, weight, and body mass index as well as discuss current medications, level of exercise and diet. Your doctor may ask about your home life to make sure you are getting any help you might need.  

While it is/was important to get your COVID-19 vaccine, doctors say don’t forget your flu vaccine this fall. Doctors also recommend seniors get the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to help prevent pneumonia.

Older women should get screened for breast cancer as statistics show 40 percent of new breast cancers are in women 65 years and older. Colorectal cancer is another important screening for seniors as 60 percent of new colorectal cancer cases are in adults 70 years and older. Doctors say by age 50 people should get their first screening, and then as recommended by their healthcare provider. Other age-related screenings include diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure and bone density test.

MorningStar of Boulder provides assisted living and memory care seniors can count on to comfortably and safely age in place.  We offer Chef inspired all day dining, a range of care services, luxury amenities, and a complement of wellness programs and activities. If you are recovering from a surgical procedure or an illness, we offer respite care as well as short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other assisted living communities, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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 amidst a beautiful, tranquil setting, we invite you to set up a visit to experience one of Boulder’s finest assisted living communities.