Experts say the first and most important thing to learn about a memory care community is whether or not they are up to the task of caring for your loved one. Do services align with their needs and is the home capable of advanced care down the road? A Place for Mom’s website says by asking the following questions, you should get the answers you need.
Before you begin your search, they suggest taking a few minutes to think about the needs of your loved one. Do they have a tendency to wander or exhibit aggressive behaviors? Do they require help with eating and drinking? Are they mobile or use a wheelchair or walker? Other information to relay is if they need help toileting, require 24/7 supervision, or care for medical conditions such as diabetes? Once you establish that a memory care community is equipped to care for your loved one, now ask your questions including how experienced is the staff; and do they have any special training. If so, is it on-going? Will your loved one have an individualized care plan? Also what is the staff-ratio during the day and at night? Inquire about safety protocols starting with secured doors, courtyards, and grounds as well as an emergency call system. Are hallways color-coded as this makes it easier for residents to navigate about more independently? Is there a nurse on duty, and how extensive are medical services? Also ask about the type of memory care activities and treatments available. After you have learned what you can, experts say the final decision will most likely come down to your peace of mind. As one of the top-rated Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise, MorningStar at Englefield Green’s entire facility is geared toward caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Beginning with compassionate caregivers to activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. New residents are assessed by our Wellness Director in order to create comprehensive individualized plans. We welcome all of your questions and look forward to hearing from you. MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities. With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting. Are you looking for the best memory care in Boise? Please visit our website to learn about availability. Source: aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/memory-care-facility-checklist
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The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that every 40 seconds a person has a stroke and every four minutes someone dies from one. While that is alarming, the AHA says that almost 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.
Did you know that one of the leading causes of strokes is high blood pressure, also called hypertension, and is the most prevalent health condition facing Americans? Statistics show one in four US adults have hypertension, and as people age, their blood pressure goes up. Experts now believe as many as 80% of people 65 years and older have hypertension and should take steps to reduce it. If you fall into that age group or at risk for HBP, start by regularly monitoring your blood pressure. If high, work with your doctor to find ways to lower it including getting more exercise and eating a healthy diet. Another way to help prevent strokes is to quit smoking. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream and forces the heart to work harder, which in turn, increases the likelihood of blood clots. Also, if you are diabetic, you need to manage the disease. The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than someone without the disease. Exercise is another way to lower your risk. Doctors say 30 minutes of moderate exercise fives a week, like a brisk walk, yoga or dancing are beneficial. Moreover, if you are overweight, try to lose weight as obesity put you at risk for any number of health issues including stroke. And don’t forget to get your cholesterol checked. The AHA recommends everyone 20 years of age and over should have it done at least every 5 years. Check with your healthcare provider regarding other risks for stroke. At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we have 61 stylish suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. We define health and well-being holistically, and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit, which we believe makes MorningStar a destination for successful aging. If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities in the area, we encourage you to visit our website to learn more about MorningStar of Happy Valley. MorningStar of Happy Valley’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. While we all have experienced varying levels of stress and anxiety throughout our lives, experts have some advice on how we can better navigate through those times. They also are quick to remind us that some stress in our lives can be a good thing as it motivates us to do things like meet deadlines and accomplish things.
However stress becomes a problem when there is too much of it or low levels of stress that continue for long periods without a break says Dr. Michael Brodsky, medical director for behavioral health for L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest publicly-operated health plan in the U.S. He explains that, “Low levels of stress release the same types of stress hormones that are produced by the fight-or-flight response,” and that “chronic exposure to such reactions are related to a number of health problems.” These include conditions such as obesity, heart disease, anxiety and depression, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, diabetes, hypertension, headaches and others. Dr. Brodsky and other experts offers a number of healthy habits to help us manage stress more effectively starting with creating a routine around your personal habits including sleep. Adults should strive for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night and stick to a scheduled bedtime. Another way to decrease your level of stress is to reduce your daily consumption of digital media. Scientists have found that the blue light emitting from our personal devices can disrupt our ability to release enough melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate our sleep/wake cycles and keep us from getting a good night’s sleep. Experts say it can help to create a plan to deal with the things you want to accomplish each day starting with writing down daily goals and priorities so they feel more manageable. Exercise, yoga or breathing exercises and mindful mediation can also be helpful. Doctors recommend seeking support from family and friends, or if you need, medical experts. At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, 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 in a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about unparalleled senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/tips-for-relieving-daily-stress-and-calming-down The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Fountain Hills is unique from many other senior communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Starting with our physical design, which enhances residents’ freedom to explore our expansive surroundings safely and easily, we look for creative ways to connect with and nurture each individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.
To aid us in this endeavor, we are staffed by a dedicated team that feels it is their calling, their privilege, to serve our tender residents and to provide a level of care that affirms their dignity and value. Each team member is trained in Radiance, our Service Excellence program, which is an attitude of the heart and is the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. Our team also goes out of their way to get to know our residents, to really listen to their stories, and in many cases, treat them like they would their own moms and dads. We encourage you to take a look at our touching Twice the Story video series that showcases these special relationships that develop between residents and our team members. At MorningStar, we believe these friendships testify to the fact that we need to support one another, and through these special connections, we come away changed for the better. While major disruptions like COVID-19 cause many hardships and sorrows, often they give rise to innovation. While the MorningStar senior living communities have always been purpose-built to protect our residents and team members, we have stepped up our rigorous protocols with Electrostatic Disinfecting Technology. This emergent weapon in our fight to protect is harmless but it is deadly against infectious disease. In addition to memory care, MorningStar of Fountain Hills has 63 private suites for assisted living that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Please visit our website for more information about our loving community as well as to inquire about availability and pricing. MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ 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. Even without a worldwide pandemic going on around us, many of us live a distance away from our grandkids and we may only get the chance to see them once or twice a year. While long-distance relationships can be tough and make it hard to feel connected, you do not have to resign your to being left out of your grandkids’ lives just because of proximity.
There are several good ideas to help you stay connected even when you are not there in person such as FaceTime or Skype video calls. For little ones who can get restless pretty quickly, be ready to read a picture book, sing songs or tell silly stories. Along with calls for birthdays and holidays, be sure to do it often enough so you keep up with their quickly changing developmental milestones. If they are older, play games together, discuss a shared hobby, exchange jokes and riddles, ask questions, and then really listen. Another way to stay connected is to start a family facebook page. This is an easy, inexpensive way for any family member to post current pictures and to share day-to-day news as well as significant events. It also lets other members add comments. Also, do not forget about snail mail. Kids love receiving mail and answering you back is a good way to get them to practice the art of letter writing. For grandkids who live close by and were used to seeing you several times a week, they may be wondering when they will see you again in person now that you are social distancing. Experts suggest you talk honestly to your grandchildren about the separation and keep reminding them it is only temporary. Tell them you have not forgotten them and that you will keep calling and they can keep calling you. MorningStar of Fountain Hills is safely accepting assisted living and memory care residents, confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus. We are closely following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and regulatory authorities to ensure the health of all beneath our roof. Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to creating a true home for residents. MorningStar of Fountain Hills’ 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. Medical experts say it is important that people understand the facts as we know them about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. One misconception is that Alzheimer’s and dementia is inevitable as we age. In fact the actual number of people afflicted with Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, in the U.S. is 3% for people between the ages of 65 to 74 years old. As we grow older, the figures climb to 17% for people 75 to 84 years old and 32% for those over 85.
The National Institute on Aging clears up another commonly held belief, which is Alzheimer’s and dementia are the same thing. While they say somewhat true, as Alzheimer’s is one form of dementia and makes up 60 to 80% of cases, other forms include frontotemporal dementia (FTD), vascular dementia, mixed dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Moreover while each type of dementia shares some characteristics, they all have a distinct underlying pathology. Another myth is if a family member had Alzheimer’s, you will get it. Experts say this is not true as only some forms of dementia have a genetic link such as early-onset Alzheimer’s (getting the disease before 65). This type of Alzheimer’s is uncommon and accounts for just 5.5% of cases. An unfound theory started in the 1960s that said food cooked in aluminum pans and drinks in such cans put you at higher risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia has never been found to be true after numerous studies. Many people also automatically assume any memory loss is a sign of Alzheimer’s. While significant memory loss can certainly indicate Alzheimer’s, experts say occasional forgetfulness is normal. This is why doctors advise anyone worried about the possibility of Alzheimer’s or dementia to see their healthcare provider for a full physical evaluation. As dementia care specialists and one of the area’s top Alzheimer’s care homes, MorningStar at Englefield Green creates individualized care plans for each resident intended to stimulate or calm in response to particular moods or situations. Our daily calendar is filled with meaningful activities that incorporate music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to help heal and comfort residents. Your loved one deserves loving, compassionate care. MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities. With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting. Looking for one of the best Alzheimer’s care homes in Boise? Please contact us to learn more. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-dementia Have you recently noticed some signs of memory loss or confusion in a parent or another loved one? Are you worried it may be the beginning of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia? We understand this may be a touchy subject to broach with your loved one, which is why experts recommend you do your homework first and learn about the common signs of the disease.
As we age, many of us experience occasional memory loss. While it may be worrisome, most likely it is just a normal part of growing older. In the case of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that a common indicator of the disease is memory loss that happens so often it disrupts daily life. They go on to say that Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in cognitive abilities, executive function and behavior. Those afflicted may start having memory problems along with difficulty completing familiar tasks. They may also become confused as to time and place. Other problems involve a marked change in their judgement and trouble with language skills and abstract thinking. Mood swings or changes in personality can also signal Alzheimer’s. All of these are common signs that can point to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia but only a specialist can make a diagnosis. You should ask your loved one’s healthcare provider for a recommendation to a neurologist who will perform tests to eliminate other causes for the behavior. MorningStar of Beaverton is committed to provide the best assisted living Beaverton, Oregon has to offer, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. Please contact us for more information about our compassionate, loving community. We look forward to meeting you and your family. MorningStar of Beaverton’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 the finest memory care and assisted living Beaverton, Oregon offers. Studies have suggested a connection between Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes but researchers do not yet fully understand the connection. Moreover, while not all of the research has confirmed a link, researchers say that people with diabetes, especially type 2, appear to be at higher risk for eventually developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
One of the things not yet known is whether taking steps to prevent or control diabetes helps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline. However, we do know that one of the complications of diabetes is damage to the body’s blood vessels as well as the fact that diabetes is one of the risk factors for vascular dementia, which causes a reduced or blocked blood flow to the brain. Scientists first suspected a connection between Alzheimer’s and diabetes when they realized that the changes in the brain were very similar; and it has been hypothesized that each of these conditions may fuel the damage caused by the other. With new research, experts hope to get a better understanding of the connection between the two diseases. “That link may occur as a result of the complex ways that type 2 diabetes affects the ability of the brain and other body tissues to use sugar (glucose) and respond to insulin.” We also know that diabetes increases the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which may eventually lead to full blown dementia. In addition, MCI can also appear years earlier in people who later are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. If you are looking for an exceptional senior living community, MorningStar of Happy Valley encourages you to visit our website for more information about our loving home. Along with 61 assisted living suites, MorningStar of Happy Valley offers 27 secure suites dedicated to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living community in Happy Valley, OR. Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-and-alzheimers/art-20046987 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 of Fountain Hills 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 Fountain Hills’ 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 The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar of Happy Valley is unique from many other senior communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Starting with our physical design, which enhances residents’ freedom to explore our expansive surroundings safely and easily, we look for creative ways to connect with and nurture each individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.
To aid us in this endeavor, we are staffed by a dedicated team that feels it is their calling, their privilege, to serve our tender residents and to provide a level of care that affirms their dignity and value. Each team member is trained in Radiance, our Service Excellence program, which is an attitude of the heart and is the way we deliver service – with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. Our team also goes out of their way to get to know our residents, to really listen to their stories, and in many cases, treat them like they would their own moms and dads. We encourage you to take a look at our touching Twice the Story video series that showcases these special relationships that develop between residents and our team members. At MorningStar, we believe these friendships testify to the fact that we need to support one another, and through these special connections, we come away changed for the better. While major disruptions like COVID-19 cause many hardships and sorrows, often they give rise to innovation. While the MorningStar senior living communities have always been purpose-built to protect our residents and team members, we have stepped up our rigorous protocols with Electrostatic Disinfecting Technology. This emergent weapon in our fight to protect is harmless but it is deadly against infectious disease. In addition to memory care, MorningStar of Happy Valley has 61 private assisted living suites that include spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Please visit our website for more information about our loving senior living community as well as to inquire about availability and pricing. MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living community in Happy Valley, OR. |
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