For anyone considering a move to assisted living, choosing the right community is a big decision for families as getting it wrong may mean another move within a couple of months. To help, senior living experts say the first thing to do is to think about the level of care you or a loved one needs to improve quality of life.
After you have a good idea of what your needs are, now factor in things like location and affordability. If mom or dad needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) focus only on senior communities offering assisted living. If you want the home to be a convenient drive for easy visiting, concentrate on those communities. If mom or dad no longer drives, look for a community offering transportation for doctor appointments or errands; or if they plan to bring a car, does it offer parking? Does the home offer 24/7 care, medication management and access to licensed nurses? Obviously, affordability is an important consideration, but senior living advocates warn don’t be initially shocked at the price. Rather think about all the living costs such as property taxes, maintenance, utility bills and meals included in the home’s monthly fees. For a better understanding of mom or dad’s assets, it may be worth your while to consult an expert in elder financial consulting. They can explore various options such as eligibility for Veterans’ benefits, what your parent’s long-term care insurance may cover, and the advantages of leveraging real estate assets and life insurance, tax benefits and more. Other things to consider include the physical characteristics of the assisted living community. Does it offer a floor plan that works for you? Do you want amenities such as a fitness center, hair salon, outdoor patio, restaurant-style dining, theater, Wi-Fi, etc.? For luxury assisted living in Houston, we encourage you to learn more MorningStar at River Oaks. MorningStar’s assisted living lets seniors comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, resort-style amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, we offer specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Visit our website today to inquire about pricing and availability. MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission statement: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Houston offers.
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It is no secret that aging brings with it changes many of us experience including not being as sharp as we were when younger. Many seniors say they find it more difficult to multitask, have trouble recalling names and finding the right word. Some complain about a decline in their ability to concentrate, absorb, process, and remember new information.
On the positive side, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) says studies have found various strengths of seniors such as having a wider vocabulary and a greater depth of understanding of the meaning of words than younger adults. Moreover, most are capable of learning new skills (it may take longer), and forming new memories. Another advantage older adults have over their younger counterparts is a wealth of life experience and accumulated knowledge. However, researchers are trying to figure out why some seniors stay cognitively healthy longer than others, and if our lifestyle habits protect our brains as we age. For now evidence shows certain parts of our brains do shrink as we age, especially those areas associated with learning; and parts of our brain may not communicate with one another as well as when we were younger. In addition, blood flow may decrease, while inflammation increases, and causes problems. We do know some people live well into their 80s, 90s and beyond with sharp cognitive skills, and defy the widely held view of seniors’ declining abilities. NIA-supported researchers call these lucky few “super agers,” and define them as “people age 80 years and older who have performance on memory tests comparable to people two to three decades younger.” While we are not sure why super agers retain such strong cognitive skills, scientists say it could be they started out with a larger, more robust brain. If you are looking for assisted living, Houston’s MorningStar at River Oaks may be your answer. We offer seniors a safe place to socialize and make new friends as well as activities and wellness programs to enjoy life to the fullest. We are located in the vibrant Upper Kirby district, and convenient to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and other services. To experience MorningStar up close, contact us to schedule a visit. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Houston offers. This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 12th. Rather than sending a bouquet of flowers this year, show grandma, mom and other moms in your life your appreciation and love by giving your time.
Do something special like planting a new rose bush or a tree, putting in a tray of annuals, or cleaning up the garden in readiness for summer. Commit to helping mom with a DIY house project like painting a room or helping clean up the attic or basement. Give mom and grandma the “day off” by taking over the cooking and cleaning up. For a simple dessert, set up a sundae bar with all the trimmings and let everyone make their own treat. If mom lives in an apartment, decorate her front door with a wreath or a huge homemade card signed by the whole family telling her how special she is. For a movie-loving mom, make a date to watch one of her favorite romantic comedies together in person or virtually. Other fun ideas include hosting a garden tea party or barbeque, and if you can’t get together, send mom all the goodies you want her to enjoy at a virtual party. Spend time together baking a fancy dessert or cooking a family favorite recipe for dinner. If mom lives close by, put together a basket of homemade goodies and deliver them to her door. The grandkids can help grandma feel loved by making cards or putting on a talent show or play. You or an older grandchild can “interview” grandma about her childhood and early adult years, wedding day, her years as a parent of small children, jobs etc. Whatever you decide on, just make sure mom feels special. At MorningStar of Pasadena, we strive to honor our remarkable residents each and every day. Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years. For trusted independent living, memory care or assisted living in Pasadena, CA, visit our website or contact us for more information. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, memory care and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers. Experts advise families to do their homework before moving mom or dad into an assisted living community as the more you know about retirement communities, it helps avoid sticker shock as well as an unhappy parent. The recommendation is to tour at least two potential communities in order to make an informed comparison.
Prices for assisted living typically are determined by the amount of senior care services the person requires. Many offer a tiered system of care to allow residents to safely age in place as health conditions change so remember to ask about how often care plans are evaluated. Other reasons costs can vary include room type, i.e. selecting a smaller or larger floor plan; as well as suite location, a scenic view or balcony. Be sure to ask what services and activities are included in the basic cost of the community. You will want to know about upfront deposits, community and move-in fees. Additionally, ask about the procedure for moving out and what type of notice you need to give. Han Hwang, executive VP of partner sales and success for Caring.com, an online resource for those caring for aging parents, spouses and other loved ones, says “it’s really important to know exactly what you’re getting and to do an apples-to-apples comparison” when choosing an assisted living community. Often monthly costs include a fee for room and board along with the level of care, medication management and any other ancillary services. To help you stay within budget, Hwang says to anticipate services you may need over the next 12 to 24 months. At MorningStar at River Oaks, our community is designed from the ground up to meet the needs of residents with a range of luxury amenities, senior care, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Our beautiful home offers assisted living suites with a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Houston. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston offers. Source: health.usnews.com/best-senior-living/assisted-living/articles/assisted-living-costs Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease is devastating for the person and their family. All of one’s carefully laid plans are cast aside as their future takes a much different path. MorningStar of Pasadena wants area families to know we are here to help.
We are an independent living, assisted living and memory care community located in the commercial and cultural heart of the San Gabriel Valley, convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and other services. MorningStar Senior Living has communities across eleven states, where we have worked hard to become dementia care specialists. MorningStar’s extensive experience in memory care has allowed us to gain a deep understanding of the disease, and we consider it our privilege to serve those with memory loss. We recognize that the person’s essence remains and are committed to finding ways to connect with and nurture that essence. We also consider residents’ family members to be part of our MorningStar family as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this unexpected journey. Our unique approach to memory care is called Lavender Sky, which is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of memory loss. Before the resident even joins our community, we take the time to get to know them through interviews with their family members to learn about their history, vocation, talents and preferences. We then use this knowledge to help us design an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration. Every aspect of our memory care is designed to address the needs of our residents including 24/7 compassionate Care Managers, wellness programs and activities that will stimulate and calm as needed. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides daily health monitoring, assistance with meals prepared by our Executive Chef, scheduled outings and special events. Our memory care suites accommodate a resident’s own furniture and mementos so they are sure to feel right at home. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s senior living in Pasadena, CA. MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers. When asked, many seniors say they would prefer to age in place in their own home, but at some point, a family may have to consider if there isn’t a better, safer option for them. Assisted living communities are designed for people who are largely independent but require support with daily activities. They offer residents many benefits such as peace of mind knowing help is there whenever they need it, access to licensed nurses, medication management and transportation to doctor’s appointments.
The range of activities is typically broad with something to appeal to everyone. Whether you are a movie buff who loves classic films, a trivia expert or a budding artist who would love the chance to explore their creative side, assisted living makes it easy to stay involved. Many communities also have fitness centers and exercise classes tailored to seniors as well as large outdoor areas perfect for taking a stroll or sitting out on the patio with friends. Safety and security are important to seniors and living in an assisted living community gives you both. Communities are designed to meet the needs of residents dealing with mobility issues, and offer ramps, flat thresholds, wide corridors and hallway hand railings. Handicap accessible bathrooms are another benefit of assisted living. Studies show seniors who are isolated and lack socialization are at risk for dementia, and community living offers a vibrant lifestyle without much effort. Other perks include healthy, balanced meals seniors no longer need to cook. Remember your parents have worked hard all their lives to provide for others and it is time to think about their happiness and well-being. At MorningStar at River Oaks, we offer seniors the finest assisted living in Houston to allow them to live life to the fullest. Along with well-designed suites, we offer an array of luxury amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. In addition, those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents. Please visit our website to learn more about our community, and contact us to ask about availability and pricing. MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers. Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to improve the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Experts explain they help encourage engagement and self-expression even in more advanced stages.
Professionals who work with Alzheimer’s patients say music seems to decrease agitation and improves behavioral problems common in the middle stages of the disease. Patients in later stages may even be able to sing a song they knew from childhood or tap a foot to the beat even after other forms of communication are difficult. Dancing or gently moving to a rhythm helps coordinate motor movements as well as allows the person to express emotions. Research shows “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” If you wish to use music to calm and soothe, choose peaceful, tranquil pieces. If you want to boost spirits and bring back happy memories, use livelier pieces. Experts say to turn off other distractions like a TV and close windows if there is outside noise. Music may be more enjoyable to the person if it is something they are familiar with from their earlier life. Art can also be an outlet for self-expression and give a person with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose and accomplishment in creating their own work. Experts recommended avoiding any project that seems childlike and demeaning. Use safe, non-toxic materials, and if they need, take their hand and guide it on the paper to get them started. Moreover, remember there is no need for the person to finish. Along with independent and assisted living, Pasadena CA’s Morningstar community provides suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with 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. Daily, purposeful activities use music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to find ways to connect with and nurture the individual whatever the extent of memory impairment. Please visit our website to learn more about specialized memory care at MorningStar of Pasadena. MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care, independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers. Contact us or visit our website to learn more. Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music Many of us use electronic devices to read our daily newspaper, connect with family and friends through emails and social media, and watch TV as well as use a computer for work. This means our eyes spend a lot of time each day staring into the bright lights of a digital screen, which has resulted in many people reporting eye strain.
The American Optometric Association says our “eyes are under greater strain when we view screens versus when we read printed words on a page.” This is because screen print is not as sharply defined as printed letters and make our eyes work harder in addition to the strain of the glare and reflection. In fact in a study, researchers found that people blink less on digital screens, which might account for dry eyes and irritation. Symptoms of computer eyes include dry, irritated, or burning eyes; blurred vision when viewing a screen or looking into the distance; and difficulty refocusing the eye. People also report frequent headaches, neck and shoulder pain and sensitivity to light. To counteract the problem, the American Optometric Association recommends following the 20-20-20 rule. This means for every 20 minutes spent looking at a digital screen; you look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Another helpful exercise is to change your focus by holding your finger a few inches from one eye and focusing your gaze on the finger. Now slowly move it aside and focus on something farther away. Alternate between looking at your finger and then looking farther away three times bringing the finger closer to the face each time. Doctors recommend getting a full eye exam if symptoms persist as well as remembering to follow the American Optometric Association’s guidelines regarding yearly checkups. This is important as eye strain can also be a sign of needing glasses or other underlying conditions. At MorningStar of Pasadena, residents find opportunities for new friendships, activities, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Our independent and assisted living community is designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Along with 116 spacious senior apartments in a variety of floorplans, we also offer luxury amenities including Executive Chef inspired meals, fitness center, bistro, sky terrace and more. Contact us for more information about exceptional senior living in Pasadena, CA. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/computer-eye-strain#exercises To help those dealing with end-of-life issues, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains some of the myths associated with palliative and hospice care including sorting out the difference between the two terms. They explain while they are similar, they do differ in a couple of significant ways.
Palliative care is defined as providing specialized care for those living with a serious illness. Myths linked to palliative care include the person no longer being able to receive care for their disease. The fact is care can be provided for the illness along with curative care. Another myth is the person will no longer be able to see their primary doctor but will only be treated by specialists. NIA says in many cases, the person’s primary provider will work hand-in-hand with specialists. The intention of palliative care is to improve quality of life as well as provide care to improve help with symptoms. It also helps the patient understand their choices for medical treatment. A palliative care team may be made up of specialized nurses and doctors along with social workers, nutritionists and chaplains. If a time comes when the person’s care team decides treatment is no longer working, palliative care could transition to hospice care if the doctor believes the person is likely to die within six months. Another option is the palliative team would continue to help with the emphasis on providing comfort care. The NIA explains hospice care provides comfort and quality of life for a person with a serious illness who is facing end of life. The myth surrounding hospice care is the person cannot receive any medications. The truth is a person will receive medications to help manage symptoms but not to treat the disease. Many people think hospice care can only be done in a hospital or nursing facility but experts say it can also be done at home. MorningStar at River Oaks offers senior living in Houston with a range of onsite amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to set up a tour. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston has to offer. MorningStar provides seniors with a lifestyle of wellness, comfort and community. By offering outstanding independent and assisted living in Pasadena, CA, our residents can enjoy carefree retirement years which gives them the time to pursue interests both new and old.
Our first-class amenities start with all-day dining with delicious meals created by our Executive Chef and served in our full-service dining room. We also have our own bistro, life enrichment room, fitness center, community kitchens, and an in-house salon that offers hairstyling, manicures and pedicures. In addition, we have a community store, billiards and poker rooms, theater/chapel and a private dining room that is available for intimate dinners. Each day, we offer a whole host of wellness programs and activities that are designed to enhance health and wellness, stimulate your brain and encourage connections. Amidst our beautiful grounds, we have raised garden beds and a courtyard with a strolling path. Along with scheduled transportation, we routinely take road trips to a variety of cultural destinations, shopping, restaurants, and more. If you are a senior who requires help with the activities of daily living, MorningStar of Pasadena provides various levels of assisted living. As a resident, you will have a personalized plan created for you, and updated as needed. Around-the-clock care managers, access to licensed nurses and medication management are just a few of the many services we provide to ensure your safety and to meet your needs. We encourage you to visit our website for more details about our remarkable senior living community. Our property has 116 independent living and assisted living suites, in a choice of spacious studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to providing care for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to schedule a tour. MorningStar of Pasadena’s mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. 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 luxury amenities, we provide the finest memory care, independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA has to offer. |
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