No matter how old we are, change can be difficult and the bigger the change, the more challenging. For the elderly, change can signal an end to a way of life they are most familiar with and cause a range of emotions from mourning a loss of independence to feelings of helplessness. Hopefully it also offers a spark of excitement at starting a new adventure.
If you are an adult child of a senior who is in the process of transitioning into assisted living, experts offer tips to get through any rough patches. To make the move more successful, they recommended working as a team: the senior, the family, the new home and their doctor. As family members, it is important to recognize how intimidating the move can be in the eyes of your loved one as they are moving to a new environment with all new people. Experts say the adjustment period typically lasts for 30 to 90 days. A senior can make it easier on themselves by keeping an open mind and realizing it will take a little while to adjust. Try to get out and enjoy your new environment rather than staying behind closed doors in your room. If you are unsure how something works, ask questions. If you are having problems getting answers, talk to the management or ask your family to intervene. Families can help the senior to set up their new apartment with familiar items and family memories including pictures and other favorite knick-knacks. Once they are settled, experts say don’t desert them but don’t overdo the visits. Allow them to find their own way and perhaps start making a few friends. If the community has family-friendly activities, join in when you can. MorningStar at River Oaks offers all-inclusive assisted living in Houston’s desirable River Oaks community. Smartly-designed private suites maximize space and include floorplans in one and two-bedroom configurations. Amenities include all-day dining, full salon, fitness center, and wellness programs and activities. A sixth-floor sky terrace and lounge is designed to enjoy the view, watch the sun set and relax with friends. Other outdoor amenities include courtyards with a fireplace and BBQ and strolling paths. As dementia care specialists, Reflections Neighborhood provides a compassionate home for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We are now open; contact us to inquire about Move-in Specials and availability.
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Seniors are not only living longer but are more engaged and active than their parents and grandparents’ generations were during their later years. Now when someone retires, they see it as a time to pursue new interests and hobbies or improve their golf or tennis game. It is a great time to travel, find meaning in life through volunteerism or spend quality time with the grandkids. It is not the time to worry about endless home repairs and maintenance.
Independent living communities like MorningStar of Hillsboro offer residents predictable budgeting, maintenance-free living, an array of luxury amenities, and a broad community of friends. An all-day dining service relieves you of meal prep and clean-up duties, giving you the time to enjoy the pool or take a peaceful walk on our strolling paths. Our onsite bistro/bar is ideal for meeting up with friends before dinner for a cocktail or glass of wine. If you have always wanted to delve into the arts, take advantage of our art studio; get into shape with our fitness center, or participate in one of our wellness programs or activities. If gardening is your passion, help keep the resident garden beds looking their best, or take in a movie at our own theater/chapel. MorningStar of Hillsboro additionally offers full salon services and more. In addition, your apartment will have a handicap-accessible bathroom and a 24-hour emergency call service. For your convenience and safety, we offer secure underground parking; and in case you wondered, we are pet friendly. MorningStar of Hillsboro’s 141 apartments are true homes and include studio; one-bedroom, one bath; and two-bedroom configurations. All come with a full kitchen, washer/dryer and private patio or balcony. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Hillsboro, OR’s MorningStar community may be your answer. Please visit our website for pricing and availability. While you are there, inquire about our Move-in Specials. We look forward to hearing from you. MorningStar of Hillsboro provides 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 contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR has to offer. New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s.
Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beliefs about aging can be reinforced, so that the adverse impact is not inevitable.” The research was part of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; a long-term study based out of Baltimore. All participants had been part of the study for decades and were healthy adults free of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The survey questions focused on individuals' beliefs regarding aging. Negative views included the belief elderly people are sickly, absent-minded, have little to contribute, and are unable to concentrate well. Positive beliefs included thinking older people can lead vibrant lives and be actively engaged in society. Participants were also given regular MRI brain scans to check for signs of Alzheimer’s. Those who answered questions about aging negatively were discovered to have a “greater decline in the volume of the hippocampus, a part of the brain critical for memory.” Researchers explain this is important as “the hippocampus is one of the first areas of the brain to shrink in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.” Brain autopsies were conducted on 74 patients who died during the study. Those who were more negative about aging had more plaques and tangles in their brain, which is associated with Alzheimer’s; than their more positive counterparts. Becca Levy and other researchers hypothesize that Americans hold a more negative view on aging as compared to countries such as India; it could contribute to Alzheimer’s being five times more prevalent in our country. However, while positive thinking is no guarantee for good brain health, it certainly helps us feel better. Looking for a trusted senior living in Houston, TX? We encourage you to take a look at the MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community. Designed from top to bottom to ensure your comfort and safety, we offer an array of amenities, wellness programs and care services. See our website for information, pricing and availability. Source: alzinfo.org/articles/research/negative-beliefs-about-aging-could-prime-the-brain-for-alzheimers/ The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only affects the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next.
Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize you need more support and ask for it. Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. The newly opened MorningStar at River Oaks epitomizes the finest assisted living in Houston, TX. Our beautifully designed community also appeals to independent seniors who appreciate the idea of living a stress-free lifestyle while knowing care is there whenever they may need it. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care, including giving support to residents’ families members through this difficult journey. Visit our website to discover how MorningStar at River Oaks is a cut above other seniors living in Houston, TX. While assisted living has been around in the U.S. for the last several decades, some people are still confused as to what it means. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral services, explains assisted living communities offer long-term housing for seniors to safely age in place. As it is not skilled nursing care, assisted living residents are overall active and independent, but may need support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and using the toilet. As a resident, you get 24/7 care and nutrition, daily meals as well as benefit from a range of wellness programs, the company of fellow residents and staff, and peace of mind knowing help is at hand if needed.
The American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA NCAL) reports assisted living is a fast growing sector of senior living with over 800,000 Americans currently residing in an assisted living community. Experts say in some cases, depending on the level of services provided, in-home care can actually be more expensive and doesn’t offer all of the services and amenities found in many assisted living communities. Homes like the newly opened MorningStar at River Oaks provide residents with much more than supportive care. Our Life Enrichment programs offer physical, intellectual, spiritual or social engagement with creative ways to stay active and productive as we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. 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 talents, time and energy with others. Visit our website to learn more about the newest senior living in Houston, TX. MorningStar at River Oaks is now open to residents. Source: aplaceformom.com/assisted-living In December MorningStar Senior Living, along with their partner and international real estate firm, the Houston-based Hines, recently hosted the grand opening of their first retirement community in Texas. The joint effort boasts an A-list team of designers and creators, including: Munoz + Albin Planning & Architecture, Kirksey Architecture, Thoma-Holec Design, TBG Partners, and D. E. Harvey Builders. The new MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care residential community is located in the prestigious, bustling River Oaks/Upper Kirby area.
The Grand Opening provided tours of the property over the weekend of Dec 11 and 12th. The celebration included the sounds of the River Oaks String Quartet, champagne and spiked apple cider along with party food by the MorningStar’s culinary team. Dr. Guillermo Rowe, husband of the community’s first resident, did the ribbon cutting honors and was joined by words from MorningStar at River Oaks Executive Director, Suzanne Kelley, Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO of MorningStar Senior Living; and John Mooz, senior managing director at Hines. Ken Jaeger inspiring remarks included the following: “With our experience in operating in 30 cities across 11 states, we are pleased to open our first retirement community in Texas. Our goal is to elevate senior living by creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, offering security, independence and compassionate care. We want our residents to thrive and are invested in creating connections and intentional relationships with each senior. Our service is marked with warmth, sincerity and depth, and that sets us apart.” For trusted assisted living and memory care Houston seniors can count on, contact MorningStar at River Oaks to inquire about availability and pricing. We also offer care-free living for independent seniors as well as respite care and short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. We offer 85 suites for independent or assisted living and another 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Every now and then, most of us suffer from an upset stomach. Experts say experiencing a stomach ache once in a while is perfectly normal and can be caused by stress or anxiety, food allergies, eating something that doesn’t agree with you, or a 24-hour bug. To ease symptoms and help you feel better, experts recommend several foods.
Just as mom told you, chicken-broth is good for an upset stomach as it contains many necessary nutrients. The broth also helps you stay hydrated if you have bouts of diarrhea and vomiting. Plain food like saltine crackers or dry white toast (skip the whole wheat for now) are easy to digest and give your stomach a little something to help it settle down. Ginger has been used for centuries to help ease digestive problems including an upset stomach. Drinking ginger tea or eating a couple of ginger chews may help you feel better. Dr. Carolyn Kaloostian, clinical associate professor of family medicine and family medicine specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, says there are several other herbs and spices that can help including licorice, chamomile, spearmint and mint. Foods like oatmeal, plain eggs, unseasoned skinless turkey, chicken or fish are all good choices to try to get a little something in your stomach without upsetting it more. Yogurt may be beneficial as it contains probiotics that can help promote healthy digestion but experts advise sticking to low-fat or no-fat varieties. The contemporary MorningStar of Kirkland is a new senior housing community in the Totem Lake area in Kirkland. We offer a range of beautiful apartments with a choice of balcony or patio, luxury amenities and all-day dining service. Our extension grounds include strolling paths, a Zen garden and resident garden beds as well as several dining venues such as our Treehouse/Outdoor Dining patio. Our community is close to the Evergreen Health Medical Center, shopping malls and restaurants, and approximately 20 minutes to Seattle. Visit our website for contact information and ask about our Move-in Specials. Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/best-foods-to-eat-for-an-upset-stomach? Searching for senior housing in Kirkland, OR? We invite you to take a look at the new MorningStar of Kirkland, a 55+ community located in the highly desirable Totem Lake area. Scheduled to open in early 2022, we offer seniors a carefree lifestyle as we handle the maintenance both inside and out along with offering an array of amenities and hospitality service; and the opportunity for a wide community of friends.
Our contemporary 5-story community offers 151 smartly-designed units that maximize space with large closets and plenty of storage in various configurations. Studios are about 475 sq. ft.; and one-bedroom-one-bath units start at 605 sq. ft. and go up to 732 sq. ft. in a choice of lay-outs. Two-bedrooms are available in 1 bath, 1 ½ bath, or 2 bath options from 811 to 1138 sq. ft. All units offer a choice of balcony or private patio. You will be impressed with the interior of our apartments as each has a full kitchen with premium cabinets, appliances, and countertops as well as an in-suite washer/dryer. Other features include private heating & air conditioning system, storage space, 24-hour emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Weekly housekeeping and linen and laundry services keep life simple and give you time to start new adventures. Additionally, the family-friendly Totem Lake area means it is easy to stay close to the grandkids while enjoying a full and active lifestyle with great restaurants, entertainment venues and lots of nature areas nearby. For convenient medical care, we are minutes away from the highly-rated Evergreen Health Medical Center. MorningStar of Kirkland is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which operates several dozen senior living communities throughout the Western US. We invite you to discover the many advantages independent living offers, such as predictable budgeting, wellness programs, built-in companionship and delicious meals you no longer need to cook. Onsite amenities include all-day, restaurant-style dining indoor and out, swimming pool, fitness center and more. Visit our website for contact information and to take a look at our full list of amenities and floor plans. Ask about our Move-in Specials. If you are ready to begin a new chapter in your retirement years, love the idea of maintenance-free living, or would like to move closer to family; why not consider a 55+ community. Moving into smaller living quarters also means lower utility bills, less space to clean and less clutter in your life.
This also means you may have to downsize as senior living apartments are generally smaller than your family home. Think of it as an opportunity to get rid of stuff you have been hanging on to for years, and most likely no longer need. If after looking around your home and realizing you have a big job ahead of you, it may be time to get a few tips from organizing experts? On top of the list is to take into account the size of your new home. This will give you a good idea of what you should take and what needs to go. If you are helping an older parent go through their home, remember change can be difficult and letting go of possessions, also means letting go of their old way of life. Be respectful and recognize objects are not just things but memories. Organizing experts say there are four important questions to ask yourself when sorting through items:
Obviously the most difficult things to get rid of are those with sentimental value but there are other ways to keep the memories. One solution is to find a good home for something you no longer need but know someone who would enjoy it. Even for those items you donate to charity, focus on the good it will do for others. Don’t be shy about asking for help from family or friends, or hire a company that specializes in clearing houses. Another thing experts recommend is to take time to say goodbye to the house but to remember you are moving forward with a new, exciting chapter. MorningStar of Kirkland is a vibrant, new 55+ community complete with resort-style amenities and hospitality services. Opening in the first quarter of 2022, our 151 spacious apartments are available in a variety of floorplans and configurations. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about the finest senior housing Kirkland offers. Source: redfin.com/blog/seniors-guide-to-downsizing/ The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports 36 million older adults fall each year—resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. Of those falls, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries; and one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. With these alarming statistics, experts say it is important for seniors to know their risk for a fall including whether they are taking medications associated with an increased risk.
The first step is to talk to your doctor to see if you are taking one of these medications, as medications are the most common reason for falls. Furthermore, experts say adjusting or making a change in medication is the easiest thing to do to help prevent a fall. If it is determined you are taking a medication like one known to cause light-headedness, dizziness, sudden drop in blood pressure, or chronically low blood pressure or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you and your healthcare team can regularly re-evaluate your need and dosage. Another way to mitigate your risk for a fall is to do exercises designed to improve leg strength and balance. In addition, be sure to get an annual eye exam and update your glasses as needed. Lastly check your home for trip hazards (keep clutter out of hallways and stairways) and install grab bars and better lighting where needed. If you are looking at retirement communities in Hillsboro, OR, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging. We offer seniors independent living with all the comforts of home. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy your precious retirement years. Visit our website for more information, and if you have further questions, please give us a call and don’t forget to ask about our Move-in Specials. MorningStar of Hillsboro provides 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 contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR has to offer. Source: dailycaring.com/10-medications-that-cause-falls-use-with-caution/ |
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