Positive Thinking can Help You Stay Healthier as You Age

Social scientists say “aging gracefully” should not be just a expression but rather something people should take to heart as they enter into their senior years. Maintaining a positive attitude as we age can help us better weather the many ups and downs we encounter along the journey. 

A comprehensive study from the Yale School of Epidemiology and Public Health followed 660 seniors age 50 years and older and found those who held a more positive view on growing older lived on average 7.5 years longer than those with a negative view. Researchers added negative views on old age may even make someone more susceptible to developing the brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However they report if a person shifts to a more positive way of thinking, the adverse outcome may be mitigated.   

Dr. Manfred Diehl, professor of human development and family studies at Colorado State University, advises people on how to develop a more positive approach to aging. His first recommendation is to be physically active at least 30 minutes each day. Then he says to keep your brain active and challenged it by continuing to learn new things. Other tips include: get enough sleep each night, stop smoking, avoid excessive alcohol, maintain a healthy weight and follow a healthy diet. Dr. Diehl says a healthy social life is important and to nurture a healthy relationships with your spouse, family and friends.   

Another positive step is to get regular medical check-ups and screenings. Additionally protect your mental health by taking the time to relax, unwind and to have fun. 

MorningStar of Hillsboro is the newest senior living in Hillsboro, OR and expects to open to residents in the last quarter of 2021. Our stylish apartments are smartly designed to please the most discerning seniors; and all you will need is your furnishings and personal items to feel at home; and we are pet friendly. If the MorningStar name sounds familiar, we do have two other senior living communities in Oregon, MorningStar of Beaverton and MorningStar of Happy Valley. Visit our website for contact information, suite availability, pricing and more. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar’s Kirkland Community is Opening Later This Year

Since our company was founded in 2003, we have believed it is a privilege to “cast a new light” on senior living guided by the following precepts: to honor God in our business practices and relationships; value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. In addition, we firmly believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Kirkland’s MorningStar community may be the place for you. Opening later this year, the new MorningStar of Kirkland is designed to provide active seniors with a carefree lifestyle, as we handle the maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping. This leaves you free to pursue your interests, explore new hobbies, travel and meet new friends. As our contemporary-styled building is both a gracious home and high-end resort, we offer a range of amenities, concierge services and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. 

MorningStar of Kirkland is located in the beautiful Totem Lake area with the beaches and parks of Juanita Bay close by and access to both private and public walking trails. We are less than a mile from the highly ranked Evergreen Health Medical Center and The Village at Totem Lake, a 400,000 square foot mixed-use development with a village feel for shopping, restaurants and entertainment.  With easy access to I-405, Seattle is just 20 minutes to the southwest.

With 151 stylish apartments and inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer all the comforts of home. Each apartment has a full kitchen with premium cabinets and countertops, private heating & air conditioning, storage space and more. For peace of mind, all apartments have handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24-hour emergency call systems; and we offer secure, underground parking. Since we are pet friendly, you will not need to leave behind your beloved furry friend.  Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar of Kirkland offers the very best in independent 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 call for more information about the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Pets are Great Companions for Seniors

Research has shown pets are beneficial to seniors. A Place for Mom’s website reports on one study, which found “15 minutes spent bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.” Researchers explain interactions between human and pets can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke. 

Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection. In fact animals uplift the spirits of those in hospitals, convalescent homes, mental health centers, and nursing homes and assisted living communities through pet therapy programs. Moreover pet therapy has proven beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Experts point to the animal’s thorough acceptance and non-verbal communication as being soothing for patients.      

It was not that long ago that seniors moving into an assisted living community had to leave behind an important companion, their pet. Today however, more and more retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar at River Oaks, allow residents to bring their pets with them. We do ask that you contact us regarding our pet policy.  

Our stunning community will open to residents in late 2021 and is staffed and ready to answers your questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. MorningStar at River Oaks’ website has contact information along with lots of details and pictures of the newest assisted living Houston offers. Along with the 85 graciously appointed suites for assisted living; Reflections Neighborhood provides 27 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Be sure to ask about our $5000 SAVINGS FOR EARLY DEPOSITORS.

Advice to Seniors on How to Exercise Safely

Too many older Americans used to exercise with some frequency but somehow life got in the way, and they now feel out of shape. Whether you used to exercise or never formally did, doctors say it is not too late to start and you will be the better for it. However before beginning any new excise regime, please consult with your healthcare provider. 

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) say deciding to become active is the best thing you can do for your physical as well as mental health, and is a big step toward helping you stay independent as you age. They recommendation seniors do some type of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, like brisk walking or fast dancing, at least 150 minutes a week at least three times a week. In addition include some type of weight bearing exercises such as sit-ups, push-ups or weight-lifting two times a week. Your optimal weekly workout should be a combination of cardio and muscle strengthening exercises along with exercises to improve balance and flexibility.

The NIA offers tips on how to safely start exercising. They say after getting the go-ahead from your physician, start slowly. If you need, begin with only a few minutes a day and build from there. Listen to your body as pushing too hard early-on can lead to injury or end up with you getting discouraged and quitting altogether. 

They say you should include a warm-up and cool-down period and to be aware of your surroundings if exercising outdoors. Bring your I.D. and carry your cellphone, tell others where you are going and when you plan to be back, and stick to areas with other people around. Make sure to drink plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the type of activity you plan to do.  

As the newest senior living in Hillsboro, OR, MorningStar of Hillsboro is a 55+ community equipped with a fitness center and pool as well as offering wellness programs, activities, and other amenities to help seniors be their best. Scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2021, our 141 contemporary apartments are available in a range of configurations including spacious studios; and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Please visit our website for more information.

Downsizing from Your Own Home into Senior Housing

If you are moving from your own home into an independent living community or another type of senior housing, most likely you will want to downsize. While it can sound overwhelming to go through a whole household of stuff and whittle it down to fit into a modest sized apartment, a few tips will help. 

Without question it is a lot of work and can be stressful and emotional but the Internet offers lots of useful information from organizing experts. Most say the trick is to prepare in advance by making a plan and allowing plenty of time. Remember, if you are interested, there are companies who offer these services and will do everything from helping with the downsizing process to packing up, and moving your things to your new home. 

Now you are ready for the sorting out process deciding what you will bring and what to give to family, donate, or throw away. This is the hardest task as your house is full of memories but again here is where a system works. Experts say sort by rooms and simplify the task by making a “yes” pile and a “no” pile. They warn not to make a “maybe” pile as it can end up growing in size and complicate your plan. Again, remember the goal is to simplify your life and not overcrowd the new place with useless stuff.   

Things to consider are the size of your new place and its layout (get measurements). You will want furniture scaled to fit as well as room for hobbies or musical instruments that are important to you. Also consider the amenities your new place offers such as a dining service. If most of your meals will be prepared by your new community, you will just need the basics in your kitchen. If the new place has a fitness center, there is no need to bring your own equipment.

Looking for independent living in Kirkland, WA?  MorningStar of Kirkland is a new 55+ senior living community scheduled to open in late 2021. Residents will enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. Visit our website for contact information and take a look at our Virtual Tour, Floorplans, and Amenities.

MorningStar of Kirkland 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Advice to Help Smooth the Transition to Assisted Living

Many times a move to assisted living for an elderly loved one is due to an event such as a recent hospitalization for a fall or a worsening medical condition. This means the person does not have the time to process the move from a beloved home, and the sudden change may be very upsetting. Even for seniors who have had the time to plan a move into assisted living, it may be challenging. 

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we know the many benefits assisted living communities such as ours afford to residents; but at the same time, we recognize any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly one of those events. In addition to our own experience, experts also offer suggestions to families on how best to support their loved one during the transition.  

Their advice includes remembering the person may feel abandoned, or frustrated with their perceived loss of independence and decision making, and have a hard time adjusting to a change in their routine. They say you should give the person plenty of support during the first days and weeks at the community; but caution against too much handholding. This could actually be counterproductive and prevent a loved one from making an adjustment. Instead emphasis the move is an opportunity to start a new chapter in their life.  

In some cases, seniors make a quick adjustment and recognize the advantage of no longer worrying about their homes’ maintenance or preparing meals. They like the ease of a more robust social life and feel a peace of mind knowing help is around whenever they need it. MorningStar at River Oaks will open to residents in the last quarter of 2021 and look forward to providing seniors the finest assisted living in Houston, TX. In addition our community offers individualized memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (from a week to a full month) to see if we are a good fit.

Combat Loneliness with a Move to Independent Living

The U.S. Census Bureau reports almost 13.8 million seniors live alone. We know various causes including chronic and worsening health conditions, hearing loss, no longer driving, mobility issues, loss of a spouse or other loved ones can result in loneliness and isolation for older adults on their own. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, “Social isolation and loneliness in older adults are serious public health risks affecting a significant number of people in the United States, and puts them at risk for dementia and other serious medical conditions.” They cite statistics showing social isolation significantly increased a person’s risk of premature death, and rivals those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Moreover studies find social isolation is associated with approximately a 50% increased risk of dementia, a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. The CDC also warns loneliness is linked to higher risk of depression, suicide and anxiety. 

Independent living communities offer older adults a built-in community of people at a similar stage of life as well as a variety of social activities that appeal to many tastes and preferences. The range of amenities and activities make it easy for residents to interact with others and to forge new friendships. Another advantage to 55+ independent living communities is the entire place is designed to accommodate the needs of seniors. This includes apartments with wheelchair accessible doorways, low thresholds, well-lit spaces, handrails, walk-in showers and tubs in bathrooms, and emergency call systems.  

At the newest Hillsboro, OR’s independent living community, MorningStar of Hillsboro offers all the comforts of home with 141 fashionable apartments and graciously-appointed common areas both inside and out. Our broad range of services and amenities include indoor and outdoor dining venues, pool, amphitheater, art studio, salon, fitness center and more to promote a healthy lifestyle for senior residents. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR offers.  

Source: cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html

Improve and Protect Your Overall Wellbeing

Growing older can open the door to chronic diseases, impaired mobility and other distressing health concerns. While there are many challenges we encounter on our path to old age, medical experts say there are some things we can do to improve and protect our overall wellbeing. Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity medicine physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston, explains, “It’s important to recognize the things that are most supportive of a good immune system are a healthy lifestyle.”

This starts with the basics like making sure we get enough sleep each night, following a healthy diet, and staying physically active. Other things we can do to improve the immune system is to support our gut microbiome by eating plant-based foods and whole grains to naturally get probiotics. The best sources of probiotics are from fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha and kimchi.

Experts say drinking responsibly is okay but evidence of excessive alcohol in both human and animal research indicates “overconsumption of alcohol decreases immune reactivity, reducing the body’s ability to fight infection.” The 2015-20 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends women consume no more than one drink a day and men no more than two.  

Additional ways to protect and strengthen our immune system is to keep up-to-date with vaccines as well as follow the medical community’s recommended exercise guidelines. Quit smoking, get seven to eight hours of sleep a night and try to reduce stress are other ways we can strengthen our immune response. So is eating foods high in antioxidants such as artichokes, beans, blackberries, strawberries, dark chocolate, red cabbage and spinach.

MorningStar of Kirkland will open later this year and offer adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an abundance of luxury amenities. Our many services will include beautiful prepared, nutritional meals; swimming pool; sport courts; fitness center and studio; and a variety of wellness programs and activities. For more information on the newest independent living in Kirkland, please visit our website. 

MorningStar of Kirkland 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/slideshows/ways-to-boost-your-immune-system?slide=11

Did You Know Assisted Living will Help Maintain Your Independence?

Some people think a move to an assisted living community signals an end to their independence but nothing could be further from the truth. At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community, we respect the fact that seniors have spent a lifetime living independently, raising families, working jobs, and making their own decisions, and consider it our job to continue to help them lead full, purposeful lives. 

We know many of the challenges that come all too often with aging such as worsening medical conditions, failing eyesight, hearing impairments and mobility problems as well as the death of a spouse or friends can make it tough for seniors to live on their own. Isolation and loneliness can bring on feelings of hopelessness and depression; have a negative impact on mental health, and even affect quality of life.

As one of our MorningStar of Pasadena’s assisted living residents, you will receive the personal daily care you need to help maintain your independence. Our services include help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, eating and more. MorningStar’s trained care managers are there to help navigate any changes in your health and ensure you get the proper level of care you need. MorningStar’s scheduled transportation services, medication management, and pharmacy services make it easy to safely get to important doctor visits and keep prescriptions filled and medications dispensed as needed. In addition we offer a full range of life enrichment activities and hospitality services along with ease of companionship and plain old-fashion fun.

Located in the heart of vibrant Pasadena, we specialize in offering trusted independent living and assisted living with predictable budgeting, freedom from endless home maintenance and opportunities for new friendships and relaxation amidst beautiful surroundings. We invite you to contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the finest senior living in Pasadena, CA.

August is National Eye Exam Month

Optometrists and ophthalmologists explain practicing good eye care includes regular eye exams. The current recommendation for those between 40 to 65 years of age is an exam every 2 to 4 years. For adults over 65, the recommendation is every 1 to 2 years and should include a check for eye diseases and conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

During a dilated eye exam, an ophthalmologist will check pupil reaction, eye pressure, retina, optic nerve, side/peripheral vision, eye movement, muscle balance and coordination. They will also check your focusing ability and eye glass prescription. The doctor will ask about your medical history including if you or a family member has diabetes, as diabetics have a higher risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma as well as diabetic retinopathy. In addition they will want to know if you have high blood pressure as over time it can cause damage to the blood vessels around the eyes. Shingles is another disease that can cause inflammation around the eyes, swelling of the eyelids and pain.  

August is National Eye Exam month and is a good time for an exam check as Americans are exposed to the greatest amount of UV ray exposure during the summer months, which can increase the risk for cataracts, growths, and cancer. Ophthalmologists say while our eyes needs exposure to natural light to maintain our sleep cycles, it is important to wear sunglasses with UV-blockers and hats as protection against the sun.  

At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community, we offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home has 149 apartments for independent living and assisted living in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a 5-star dining service. You will find our website is loaded with information, and we are ready to answer any additional questions you may have regarding unrivalled senior living Pasadena style.

Research Shows Humans May have the Potential for a Longer Lifespan

The Medical News Today recently reported on an interesting study published in the journal, Demographic Research, and conducted by the University of Washington, which indicated a likely rise in human longevity by the end of this century. Worldwide we have seen a rise over the last several years of a half a million people, referred to as centenarians, living past the age of 100 years old. Today the new focus is on those living past 110 years old who are referred to as “supercentenarians.” Up to now the oldest known person in the world was a French woman with a recorded age of 122 years old when she died in 1997. 

The University of Washington longevity study used “updated longevity data in the International Database on Longevity (IDL), established by the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research in Rostock, Germany.” The study included 1,119 people recorded as supercentenarians from ten European countries along with Japan, U.S. and Canada. They additionally included records of almost 14,000 individuals of semi-supercentenarians who died between the ages of 105 and 109. 

Statistically the report says there is a “99% probability of a person living up to 124 years and a 68% probability of reaching 127 years. An even longer life span of 130 years is possible but much less probable — at 13%.” The research team explains while they can draw conclusions based on today’s human longevity patterns, some conclusions may change due to new medical treatments, but most likely will flatten at a certain point.  

At MorningStar of Pasadena, we love the idea of seniors living long productive lives. Our 55+ community offers independent living as well as the most trusted assisted living in Pasadena, CA that gives residents the help they need with daily personal care. 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. Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living in Pasadena.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/maximum-human-lifespan-could-reach-130-years-by-the-end-of-this-century#Age-attainment-bias

As You Age, it is More Important than Ever to Get Routine Medical Care

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 the care you need.  

While it 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’s new senior community in Kirkland offers stylish, no-maintenance apartments, a variety of onsite amenities, and a broad community of friends. Located in the beautiful Totem Lake area, we have direct access to both private and public walking paths and are minutes from Juanita Bay, the Sammamish River Trail, and Sammamish Valley Park. The top-ranked Evergreen Medical Center is a couple of blocks away and Seattle only 20 minutes to the southwest.  We encourage you to contact us about the newest independent living Kirkland offers and be sure to ask about our Pre-open Specials.

MorningStar of Kirkland 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Contemporary Senior Housing: Studios and One & Two Bedroom Floorplans

If you are in the Hillsboro, OR area and looking for senior living, would you love the opportunity to move into a brand-new community? If so we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar of Hillsboro. Scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2021, our 55+ community will let you to fully enjoy your retirement years by giving you the resources to live your best life. 

In addition to luxury amenities, we offer a range of floorplans and configurations designed to please. Starting with a choice of studios from 475 sq. ft. to 573, each is designed to optimize living space, and offers a kitchenette and plenty of windows to bring in natural light. Our one-bedroom, one-bath units start at 545 sq. ft.; with several configurations at 678 all the way up to our largest at 732 sq. ft. We also have a selection of one-bedroom, one ½ baths at 911 sq. ft. 

For those looking for two bedrooms, our wide selection includes two-bedroom, one-bath apartments at 811 sq. ft. as well as a whole range of two-bedroom, two-bath units from 979 sq. ft. to our very largest apartment at 1219 sq. ft. Depending on location, some of our units offer a choice of a private balcony or private patio (be sure to ask). 

We encourage you to browse our website to look at our Virtual Tour, floor plans, list of amenities and our photo gallery. As a resident of MorningStar of Hillsboro, you will appreciate our location in the highly sought-after AmberGlen neighborhood on the east side of Hillsboro. Our community is minutes from the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, the Tanasbourne Town Center shopping mall, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues. 

Isn’t it time for a carefree lifestyle with beautiful prepared meals, an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, social clubs, Art Studio, salon and more? For more information on the newest independent living in Hillsboro, please visit our website.

Learn More About Prediabetes

Dr. Lyudmila Shvets-Gabriel, an endocrinologist with White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in Armonk, New York explains, “Prediabetes is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes. It means having higher blood sugars than what is considered normal, but not high enough to be labeled as having diabetes.” According to the CDC, the majority of people with prediabetes have no idea they have it and are not taking the necessary steps to prevent it from developing into diabetes. Experts estimate as many as 88 million Americans have prediabetes. 

If you are someone who has been diagnosed with prediabetes, you should begin today to lessen your risk of developing diabetes. While you may not be experiencing symptoms as you would with diabetes, doctors say some of the “long-term damage to organs such as heart, blood vessels, kidneys and nerves starts as early as in the prediabetes stage.”

Prediabetes has the same risk factors as does diabetes such as being overweight, having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes, not being physically active more than 3 times a week and being older than 45. Experts say maintaining a healthy weigh is the number one way to prevent diabetes. They advise cutting down on your consumption of sugary foods and beverages as well as briskly walking at least 150 minutes a week or another similar activity. 

To learn more, check out the CDC’s diabetes prevention lifestyle change program for guidance on how to build healthy life-long habits. “It claims that the program can help lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by as much as 58% (71% if you’re over age 60).”

Please visit our website for more information on the newest community for independent living in Kirkland, WA. Opening later this year, MorningStar of Kirkland’s amenities will include a pool, sport courts, fitness center, art studio, indoor and outdoor dining venues, and beautiful nature areas nearby to promote a healthy lifestyle for active 55+ seniors.

MorningStar of Kirkland 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/conditions/diabetes/prediabetes/prediabetes-how-to-prevent-it

Has a Loved One Been Told They have Alzheimer’s?

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it is extremely difficult not only for the individual but the entire family. As it generally comes after the person as well as their family and friends have noticed a marked change in the individual, it is tough to hear but not always a huge surprise. Now the question becomes “what next?”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers families guidance with a list of helpful informative and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Check if they have local chapters where you can get in-person support, meet others in your same situation, and get involved in fundraising activities. You can additionally reach out to local community centers and hospitals to find out if they have Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

NIA reminds families to keep up with regular medical checkups as they are important for a person with Alzheimer’s and should include their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Also ask your medical team if there is a memory disorder clinic nearby. 

Another suggestion is to plan ahead both financially and for long-term care while the person can still have some valuable input. Finally experts say to make sure you get the proper help to ensure the person’s wellbeing and safety. 

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is devastating to the family and want you to know we are here to help. Along with assisted living, our holistic memory care supports residents and their families with services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life.

When we open in the last quarter of 2021, we will be in a class of our own in regards to other senior living communities in the Houston area. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none in our homes across the U.S. Now we are honored to bring this exceptional assisted living and memory care to Houston families. Please contact us to learn more.  

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis

Considering Moving from Your Own Home into Senior Housing?

If you are moving from your own home into an independent living community or another type of senior housing, most likely you will want to downsize. While it can sound overwhelming to go through a whole household of stuff and whittle it down to fit into a modest sized apartment, a few tips will help. In the end, it comes down to deciding what to bring with you and what to leave behind. 

Without question it is a lot of work and can be stressful and emotional but the Internet offers lots of useful information from organizing experts. Most say the trick is to prepare in advance by making a plan and allowing plenty of time. Remember if you need, there are companies who offer these services and will do everything from helping with the downsizing process to packing up, and moving your things to your new home. 

Now you are ready for the sorting out process deciding what you will bring and what to give to family, donate, or throw away. This is the hardest task as your house is full of memories but again here is where a system works. Experts say sort by rooms and simplify the task by making a “yes” pile and a “no” pile. They warn not to make a “maybe” pile as it can end of growing in size and complicate your plan. Again remember the goal is to simplify your life and not overcrowd the new place with useless stuff.   

Things to consider are the size of your new place and its layout (get measurements). You will want furniture scaled to fit as well as room for hobbies or musical instruments that are important to you. Also consider the amenities your new place offers such as will you have a dining service. If so you will just need the basics in your kitchen. If the new place has a fitness center, there is no need to bring your own equipment.

If you are looking for independent living in Hillsboro, Oregon, MorningStar of Hillsboro is a new 55+ senior living community scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2021. Residents will enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance inside and out and provide onsite luxury amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. Visit our website for contact information and take a look at our “Virtual Tour,” photos and amenities.

Seniors Enjoy Benefits from Gardening

A garden full of beautiful flowers and/or home-grown vegetables is a gratifying pastime for many seniors. Not only does it offer beauty and wholesome, nutritional food for you and those you share your bounty with, but a healthier lifestyle. 

Experts say getting outside to work in the garden is a wonderful way to get exercise and enjoy nature as well as to get a dose of vitamin D. They warn to protect your exposed skin with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, wear light, loose clothing, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid working outside during the heat of the day. Gardening is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress and to forget about your problems, at least for a while. Overall, even a few hours a week doing something as enjoyable as gardening can strengthen muscles, improve mobility and increase flexibility.

  Growing tomatoes and lettuce or starting an herb garden is a great place for beginners to start and are appropriate plants for container gardening. For flowers, stick to those that thrive in your particular region. Planning your garden and learning how to maintain it is a big part of the fun.   Studies show along with the physical aspect of gardening the critical thinking skills used to plan and maintain the garden may lower your risk for Alzheimer's disease. 

Another often overlooked benefit of gardening is the social aspect. While working in your garden may be a solitary activity, gardeners enjoy getting together in the forms of clubs, visiting their local farmers market, nursery trips, or joining a community garden project.  

MorningStar of Kirkland offers adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and security. Our new community will open in late 2021 with a variety of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans for independent living.  Residents will enjoy resort-style amenities and beautiful common areas including an art studio, bistro bar, outdoor dining, swimming pool, sport courts, a Zen Garden and resident garden beds. If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Kirkland’s new MorningStar community may be for you.  

MorningStar of Kirkland offers the very best in independent 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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please call for more information about the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Committed to Serving Our Residents, Neighbors & Those in Need across the Globe

MorningStar at River Oaks is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start by creating a true home for the remarkable residents beneath our roofs, made possible by a dedicated team who understands the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, time and energy with others. 

The scope of our Vision to love and honor also includes impacting the world for good through the MorningStar Foundation, and offering support to philanthropic initiatives within our local neighborhoods and around the world. One such project is our support to the people of Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We serve not only the children of the Casa Bernabé orphanage but holistically serve the impoverished area. We also are proud to support Lifewater, whose Healthy Village strategy focuses not just on their delivery of a safe water point, but on the villagers’ monitored adoption of hygiene habits in each and every home.

Closer to home, MorningStar’s senior living communities are great supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association. We participate in events throughout the year including the “Longest Day Celebration” (summer solstice), which was on June 20th this year. Our uplifting celebrations include hosting fundraisers of every sort, balloon releases, games, food and more. Additionally our communities participate in the “Walk to End Alz,” either by walking, sponsoring or hosting other creative ways to raise funds. Other efforts include doing our share by volunteering with local nonprofits to help where there is a need. 

Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar at River Oaks, the area’s newest community for assisted living and memory care in Houston. Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security, we have 112 suites ranging in size from 350 to 1,090 sq. ft. in a choice of floor plans and configurations. We also offer short-term stays to see if we are a good fit as well as respite care. MorningStar at River Oaks opens to residents in the later quarter of 2021. Contact us for availability and pricing.

Opening of the Area’s Newest Independent Living Community Grows Close

Ken Jaeger, MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder/CEO says it best with the following: “What do seniors essentially want? What do we all want? To be valued at our core; to be seen as significant; to be looked squarely in the eyes and loved.” At MorningStar of Hillsboro, we believe serving seniors to be our calling and our goal is to provide seniors the best carefree retirement years. Our 55+ community opens in the last quarter of 2021 and offers a wide selection of independent living apartments, luxury amenities such as indoor and outdoor dining venues, pool, amphitheater, art studio, salon, and fitness center to promote a healthy lifestyle for senior residents. In addition 24/7 concierge services are ready to help.

Since serving senior is our calling, we thought you might enjoy a few facts about them. In terms of numbers, the U.S. Census Bureau reports there were 40.3 million U.S. residents 65 years and older in 2010. By 2020 that number has grown more than a third (34.2% or 13,787,044 more seniors). From 2018 to 2019, the 65+ population grew 3.2% (1,688,924). 

The Population Reference Bureau projects the senior population will soon double and by 2060 there will be nearly 100 million Americans 65 years and older. The CDC says the growth is due in part to the large baby boomer generation along with a rise in the group’s life span. The United Nations projects one person out of every five globally will be over the age of 65; and in the U.S., the number will be even slightly high than one in five. 

As of 2020, the U.S. had the highest absolute number of centenarians in the world with 97,000; however Japan has the highest rate of centenarians numbering 0.06 of the population. The CDC reports the leading cause of death over the age of 65 is chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. The leading cause of unintentional injury deaths in the U.S. for adults 65 years or older are falls. As of Oct, 2020, a man 65 can expect to live 18 more years on average, and 65 year old women can expect to live approximately 20.7 more years. 

Please visit MorningStar of Hillsboro’s website for contact information and to learn more about one of the finest new independent living communities in Hillsboro, OR. Be sure to ask about our Pre-open Specials.

Stretching Exercises will Improve Your Flexibility

Health professionals say it is important to incorporate stretching exercises into your routine especially the older we get as our flexibility naturally decreases. As joints become stiff, and tendons and ligaments tighten up, we become more susceptible to injuries as well as chronic pain and poor posture. In fact studies show men’s flexibility drops sharply at around 70 years of age. 

Stretching exercises are easy to learn, relatively easy to do, and should not take more than five to ten minutes. Urvashi Chogle, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, says the shoulders, hips, knees and spine lose the most flexibility.  He explains, "This makes many everyday movements more difficult, such as reaching overhead, squatting, twisting, and bending over." 

Of course before you begin any new stretching exercises, you need to consult with your healthcare provider. He or she may have suggestions on how to safely get started or direct you to your local community senior center for classes or other organizations catering to seniors. Additionally the Internet has a lot of information on how seniors can improve their flexibility with stretching exercises done in a chair, standing up, or if you can, on the floor. Regardless of your level of fitness, these exercises should help improve your range of motion, flexibility and joint stiffness.   

At MorningStar at River Oaks, our assisted living and memory care provide Houston seniors a carefree lifestyle to safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Our programs include a range of exercise classes such as chair yoga, gentle stretching and others to help keep you moving. Situated in Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood, our home includes a sixth-floor sky terrace and lounge offering spectacular views of downtown, courtyards with fireplace and BBQ, and a grand entrance portal located on Revere Street. Visit our website for more information, and pricing and availability. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2021.

Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/a-plan-for-easy-stretching