It is not a medical condition that immediately develops symptoms, such as a sprained ankle or broken arm. However, the medical condition is much more debilitating because it doesn’t heal. We are talking about memory loss, which frequently gets much worse by developing the symptoms associated with dementia.
Memory represents an ability that involves several interconnected abilities performed by the brain. When the areas of the brain that coordinate the interconnected abilities begin to fail, you might experience a mild form of memory loss that can eventually develop into dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. At our senior housing center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, we educate both residents and their loved ones on how to recognize the most common signs of memory loss. Forgetting Information One of the most common signs of memory loss concerns forgetting what was once easy to retrieve information, such as a close friend’s name or a loved one’s cell phone number. Although we all experience short lapses in memory, experiencing memory loss involves forgetting information for extended periods. Misplacing Items One day, you cannot find your car keys. No big deal, you think. This happens to all of us at one time because of too much stress or a mind preoccupied with other things. However, misplacing your car keys one time turns into frequent bouts of losing track of critically important bank and legal documents. Misplacing items represents one of the most common signs of memory loss, as well as a sign that often causes emotional distress. Cannot Complete Daily Tasks Although busy people get distracted occasionally, they are still able to complete basic daily tasks, such as washing dishes and ironing clothes. The same cannot be said for those suffering memory loss. What were once boring daily tasks suddenly become chores that require an immense effort just to remember how to get them done. Mood Swings When a loved one suffers memory loss, the inability to remember things can lead to bouts of depression. We all take pride in being self-sufficient, and when that self-sufficiency wanes for any reason, we can lose confidence and worse, the will to live. Memory loss also can trigger wild mood swings, which develop because of the frustration associated with symptoms like disorientation and impaired judgment. Loss of Motivation We all lose interest in doing chores, such as mowing the lawn and removing clutter from the garage. However, when people lose interest in something they love to do, then something much more serious that losing interest is at work. If you notice a loved one not participating in a favored activity, then possibly your loved one is experiencing a common sign of memory loss called loss of motivation. Learn More About the Memory Loss Care Provided by MorningStar of Rio Rancho One of the most common reasons why our Rio Rancho assisted living facility attracts new residents is because we offer three lifestyle options: independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Your loved one can start in our independent living program, and if the signs of memory loss start to develop, we can smoothly transition your loved one into an assisted living arrangement. The licensed and experienced caretakers at our senior housing center in Rio Rancho, NM receive extensive training on how to recognize, as well as manage the signs of memory loss. Schedule a tour today by contacting our assisted living facility.
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Today’s assisted living is not just another term for a nursing home, which is intended for people who require skilled, around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Rather assisted living, the most popular and fastest growing long-term care option for older adults in the U.S., is designed for seniors who cannot get the help they need or afford while living at home or in an independent living community. The first community in the U.S. opened in the late 1980s. The concept quickly took hold out of consumers’ distaste for nursing homes and the desire for something offering the services, safety and amenities seniors required while still supporting and encouraging their independence.
Assisted living recognizes seniors as productive, contributing individuals who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities offer private suites and most are equipped with kitchenettes. At communities such as MorningStar of Rio Rancho, meals and transportation are provided, and residents can get help with activities of daily living including bathing, grooming, dressing, transferring, toileting, etc. Residents feel comforted having the security and safety of 24-hour support, and families’ rest easy knowing that a trained, caring staff is available to help whenever their loved one needs it. Residents of MorningStar appreciate the ease of built-in social connections and predictable budgeting as well as activities designed to engage them physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Amenities include a bistro, theater/chapel, fitness room, library, salon and much more. Throughout our community, you will find inviting areas to sit and have a chat with friends or family or the perfect spot to find some solitude and just enjoy the day. If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Rio Rancho NM’s MorningStar community may be the place for you. If you would like to see if we are a good fit, we offer short-term stays (from one week up to a full month) and respite care for those recovering from an illness or surgical procedure. Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. MorningStar of Rio Rancho proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 senior housing Rio Rancho, NM has to offer. If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar of Happy Valley provide residents with all of the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them safely age in place. Moreover as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it.
Right from the ground up, our home is set apart from other senior living communities as we were designed by the award-winning senior interior specialist, Thoma-Holec Design. We offer gorgeously-appointed common areas including all-day, restaurant-style dining, a 24-hour bistro, fitness and wellness center, life enrichment room, spa, massage/therapy room, salon, theatre/chapel and more. Situated on a 2-acre campus, we also showcase expansive outdoor amenities such as courtyards featuring artwork and trellises, barbecue and fire pit and strolling paths. Too often seniors assume assisted living means an end to their independence but studies actually show the opposite is true. When older adults get the daily personal care they need, it helps to restore their confidence and frees them up to move forward with living life to the fullest. In addition to extensive support services, wellness programs and activities, and a wide range of amenities, our contemporary suites are ready to move-in to and just require your furnishings and personal items. For your safety and wellbeing, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. The MorningStar of Happy Valley senior living community offers 61 assisted living suites and another 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We invite you to visit our website for more information about the area’s most trusted assisted living and memory care and to learn more about what sets MorningStar apart from other senior living communities. 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.” At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we provide residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home provides 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 seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM. MorningStar of Rio Rancho 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 the finest senior living in Rio Rancho, NM Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know While you want to show mom or dad your love through a thoughtful gift this holiday season, it can be tough to figure out one. If they live in a senior living community that provides for many of their needs or in an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up major space or already has it.
This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy. If they haven’t gotten an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice-operated. Alexa can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use. Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain, a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep, or a light-therapy lamp for the dark days of winter. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Rio Rancho offers, consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho. Our all-inclusive senior living community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all of the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every private suite is smartly-designed to maximize space and include floor plans in studio, one bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations. All have wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, lighting, and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. In addition, one- and two-bedroom suites in assisted living have a stacking washing machine and dryer. Please visit our website to learn more and be sure to ask us about our Move-in Specials. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health. Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.
One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain. An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.” Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming. However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider. In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health. This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits. Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night. Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.” What sets MorningStar apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM? We strive to provide a true “home” for our residents and have a team committed to serving seniors who treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. Our loving, around-the-clock care encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing of our residents. Please visit our website for more information. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other seniors living in Rio Rancho, NM. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory Studies show the difference between the costs of assisted living and paying for in-home care services varies but in many cases assisted living may overall be the better bargain. Experts explain it is important to acknowledge all of the factors that go into the decision and to remember, if possible, it should not be strictly based on finances. They say a good rule of thumb is if mom or dad requires more than 40 hours a week of in-home care, you should probably consider an assisted living community.
The breakdown of care services a loved one requires can include the services of a health professional to give shots, tube feedings, change dressings or other medical care. Mom or dad may require personal care assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, grooming, transferring/mobility, toileting, eating, etc. In assisted living communities like MorningStar of Happy Valley, a person has a 24/7 care manager, access to licensed nurses, and other therapeutic services available. Another sign a loved one is not able to live independently is how well they handle the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), which experts say may decline even before ADLs. While similar to ADLs, the IADLs are defined as basic living skills starting with communication skills such as the ability to use a regular phone, mobile phone, email, or the Internet. Is the person able to drive themselves, arrange for transportation or use public transportation? Can they safely prepare, cook and clean-up their own meals? Do they have a way to get out and buy groceries? Other IADLs include managing medications such as taking the proper dosages and filling prescriptions in a timely fashion as well as managing personal finances, staying on budget and avoiding becoming victim to scams. Other costs covered in assisted living are indoor and outdoor maintenance and repairs. In addition the facility accommodates elderly residents with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems in each suite. At MorningStar of Happy, we provide housekeeping and linen & laundry services, private heating and cooling systems, basic cable and Wi-Fi. Moreover factor in the value of companionship as well as our meaningful wellness programs designed to keep your loved one active and engaged. It is our privilege to offer area seniors the best assisted living and memory care by creating a true home for all residents. Looking for the best senior housing Rio Rancho, NM offers? MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides assisted living residents a full range of care services, wellness programs and activities designed to support the whole person – body, mind and spirit. Our residential home is filled with spacious, beautifully-appointed common areas both inside and out and include courtyards featuring artwork and trellises, strolling paths, bistro, chapel/theatre, and fitness room. Delicious meals prepared by our Executive Chef are served restaurant-style in our lovely dining room.
However, our stylish design does not stop at the door of our private suites. Each one offers a range of features including lots of lighting, high ceilings, and large windows as well a kitchenette with refrigerator. One- and two- bedroom suites have washers and dryers. For residents’ peace of mind and safety, our suites are also equipped with an emergency call system to ensure help is there if the need arises as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms. Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. All assisted living residents are provided with 24/7 care managers who help assist them with the Activities of Daily Living (dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, transferring and more). Access to a licensed nurse is available onsite throughout the week and on-call around-the-clock. We also offer medication management by Certified Med Care Managers. Moreover, we want to reassure you and your family that we periodically re-evaluate care plans and make changes as needed. Other clinical care services provided by MorningStar include mechanical lift assistance, diabetic management, oxygen administration, catheter and colostomy care and more. We provide scheduled physician visits, a choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry services. At the heart of our community, and what we are most proud of, is our team of loving, responsive caregivers who feel privileged to serve. Please visit our website for contact information. We are happy to answer any questions and look forward to hearing from you. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Rio Rancho, NM has to offer. 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, MorningStar of Rio Rancho provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin. For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did. And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.
Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin. In fact studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints. Another good thing about stretching is there are exercises that are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair. Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles. Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.” They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some. Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself. Some common forms of exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking and dumbbell strength training. At the MorningStar of Happy Valley, our beautiful assisted living and memory care community offers a whole host of resort-style amenities and care services as well as wellness programs and activities daily that include exercises geared toward our residents. Located in the southeast suburb of Portland, OR, we proudly offer our residents a true “home.” Please see our website to learn more. *This blog is for information purposes only. Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider* MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct 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 are honored to create a true “home” for residents. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley. Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/ If you are looking for senior living in Rio Rancho, NM, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Rio Rancho. For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 51 assisted living suites are equipped with all of the modern conveniences and safety features. Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have wall-to-wall carpeting, high ceilings, lots of windows, ceiling lights, and mini-blinds.
In assisted living, we offer various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers to ensure your safety as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs. If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef. All of our delicious meals are served in our beautiful dining room, restaurant-style, and created largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds. During the coronavirus outbreak, however, changes have been made in dining protocols to protect both residents and team members. We are happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations began at MorningStar communities last month. We believe our care to be different from that of other senior living communities because of the type of individuals who make up our team. When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are more important than education or experience. Moreover, many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness! Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose. MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve in order to provide a true home for residents. Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Rio Rancho, NM. |
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