Many of us find ourselves wondering if our brain is working as efficiently as it did when we were younger. Research shows most likely it is not. Various studies suggest memory problems often “reflect a slower processing speed and poor encoding and retrieval of new memories as a result of diminished attention.” However, while normal aging causes seniors to process new information slower; judgement and reasoning powers remain largely intact.
Researchers say in the same way we cannot jump as high or run as fast as we did when we were children; our thinking process also begins to slow down. By the time we are in our 50s or 60s, this can interfere with remembering things, solving problems or learning new information. Structural changes in the brain regions involved in memory processing such as the hippocampus and the frontal lobes all experience anatomical and neurochemical changes as we age. Concentration can be affected by the natural loss of receptors and neurons. Outside factors such as not getting enough sleep, or a hearing loss can exacerbate the problem, and daily aches and pains can impact our ability to concentrate as do the medications we take to ease the pain. If an older person does not make a point to really concentrate when taking in new information, it can cause problems with recall as they never really learned it in the first place. Experts offer practical, commonsense tips to help you more reliably process information and improve your ability to focus. Examples include playing brain games, physical exercise (it helps send more blood flow to the brain), getting out in nature, listening to music, sleeping at least seven to eight hours a night or using relaxation techniques such as meditation or mindfulness. MorningStar of Hillsboro’s goal is to provide the best senior living Hillsboro, OR offers, with a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and security. Our new community (senior communities) offers enrichment programs to stay active and engaged in life physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities and beautiful common areas including an art studio, bistro bar, outdoor dining, swimming pool, amphitheater, fitness center and gardens. Please visit our website for more information on our independent living. 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 Hillsboro, OR offers. Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-aging-affects-focus
0 Comments
Chances are if your parents are elderly, they are taking at least one or more prescription medications daily. In fact, the Washington Post cites research that estimates, “25 percent of people ages 65 to 69 take at least five prescription drugs to treat chronic conditions, a figure that jumps to nearly 46 percent for those between 70 and 79.” Polypharmacy refers to the regular use of five or more prescription medications, and puts people more at risk for adverse drug interactions, an area of special concern for the elderly.
Alarming figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state almost 450,000 older adults (65 years old or older) visit the emergency room each year because of adverse, or harmful, drug events. Doctors say while many of these problems are preventable, when you take a number of prescriptions, it can get confusing keeping up with various instructions such as “take on an empty stomach,” and the adverse side effects. Experts say to help a parent get organized, write down the names of all of the drugs they are taking, the dosage, and if they see several doctors, who prescribed them. Include any herbal supplements, multi-vitamins and over-the-counter drugs. The next time they see their primary care doctor, take your list and discuss the reasons for each drug, how long they will be on it, and if any of the drugs are dangerous. Whenever a new drug is prescribed, ask what it is for and how it should be taken, and read through the paperwork. Store medications together in a cool, dry location (not the bathroom), discard old, expired medications, and find a pill organizer that makes sense for your parent’s needs. If they are forgetful, they may need a reminder system. However, if a parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, they should be carefully monitored. At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at River Oaks, our residents’ wellbeing and physical health is our primary concern. This is why one of our many services is medication management that ensures residents take medications properly, and as we even order medications, there is no danger of them running out. Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional senior living in Houston. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Houston 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 at River Oaks provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. Many people believe growing older is awful and that everyone in their eighties is sickly and depressed. However, in psychologist Katharine Esty’s fourth book (published when she was 85) called EightySomethings: A Practical Guide to Letting Go, Aging Well, and Finding Unexpected Happiness, she strongly dispels this notion. In fact, her research found elderly adults are happier and hold a more positive outlook than most of us thought. Esty explains, “The stereotypes that people have in their minds about old age are just completely wrong.” She adds, the type of activities people in their eighties are doing is stunning and many are pain-free, living full productive lives.
It turns out a lot of octogenarians are still working full- or part-time jobs or finding fulfillment in doing some sort of volunteer work through their communities or church. Esty says having a purpose in life, regardless of age, gives a person’s life meaning. In addition, most 80-year-olds have already experienced loss and hardships in their life and have developed coping mechanisms to better deal with difficulties. The majority of octogenarians also reported feeling less anger, worry and stress than they did when they were younger; and while they may have some regrets, most had come to terms with their decisions. Lastly, the contentment 80-year-olds express about their lives is they recognize time is short and should not be wasted. Looking for one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR offers? The new MorningStar of Hillsboro provides residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home has 141 stylish seniors apartments in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to live life to the fullest. We encourage you to visit our website for contact information, virtual tour, list of amenities, and floorplans. 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 one of the best retirement and senior communities Hillsboro, OR has to offer. Source: cnbc.com/2020/10/03/why-people-are-happier-in-their-80s-86-year-old-psychologist.html Along with the finest assisted living Houston offers, the Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar at River Oaks has 27 suites in studio and one-bedroom floorplans devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help. We 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. The Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to allow our most tender residents the freedom to explore their surroundings safely and easily. Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care. We are staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease. MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents. Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs. We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it. MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Thus, each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar Senior Living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care. MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Houston offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one out of every five Americans aged 65 years and older has a fall that results in an injury such as broken bones or a head injury. However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving. Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”
They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall. Their first advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention. Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects include dizziness or sleepiness that could contribute to falls. While falls are common in seniors 65 years of age and older, individuals with dementia are at an even greater risk. Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and with staying focused on the task at hand. Other issues that may increase the risk of falls include poor eyesight and chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, and arthritis or numbness in the feet. If you often feel dizzy or lightheaded upon standing or suddenly sitting up, ask your doctor if you might have postural hypotension, and find out how you can alleviate the symptoms. Further tips to reduce your risk include having your eyes checked annually and updating your glasses when needed. In addition, talk to your doctor about the best footwear for inside the house as well as outside. Check your home for trip hazards (the CDC has a list of tips) and install grab bars in the bathroom. Finally, ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen your leg muscles as well as balance-training exercises to improve balance. If you are looking for the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar’s new community. Our beautiful home for independent seniors provides a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. Luxury amenities include chef-inspired meals, an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, social clubs and other indoor and outdoor venues. In addition, We have a range of wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information about our senior communities. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Hillsboro, OR 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, inviting atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Hillsboro provides outstanding independent living. Sources:cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htmalzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/ We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk for getting shingles sometime in your life.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious, but you can give someone chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a washcloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others. For exceptional senior living, Houston’s MorningStar at River Oaks provides a true home where residents can comfortably and safely age in place. We have 85 suites for assisted living and 27 secure suites devoted to the care of residents with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website to learn more about our broad range of amenities, wellness programs, and care services. 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 for more information about the finest senior living Houston has to offer. While MorningStar may be new to Kirkland, MorningStar Senior Living has been serving seniors for 18 years. We have 40+ communities operating or under construction throughout the Western U.S. including MorningStar at Silver Lake in Everett. We are proud of the reputation our homes have earned with residents and their families alike and would like to introduce you to the finest senior living Kirkland offers.
MorningStar of Kirkland is an independent living community in the idyllic Totem Lake area, and we offer direct access to both private and public walking paths and are minutes from Juanita Bay, the Sammamish River Trail, and Sammamish Valley Park. We are also less than a mile from the 4th ranked hospital in WA, Evergreen Health Medical Center, and the shops, restaurants and entertainment venues of The Village at Totem Lake are minutes away. With 151 fashionable senior apartments, you are sure to find a floorplan that suits your needs. Each apartment has a full kitchen with premium cabinets and countertops, private patio or balcony, storage space and more. For peace of mind, all apartments have handicap-accessible bathrooms and 24-hour emergency call systems; and we offer secure, underground parking. Our weekly housekeeping and linen and laundry service helps to keep life simple. Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an abundance of luxury amenities. Amenities include chef-inspired meals, an indoor pool, bistro/bar, fitness center and studio, salon, art studio and other indoor and outdoor venues. In addition. we offer a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed for residents’ physical, mental, social and spiritual connection. And in case you were wondering, we are pet friendly. Please visit our website to learn more about our new community as well as MorningStar’s commitment to serving seniors, the local community, and others across the globe. MorningStar of Kirkland 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 Kirkland, WA has to offer. Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.
Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living community knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future. Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Pasadena have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands. Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary in size and number of bedrooms, all our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer. Each has a kitchenette with premium cabinets and counters, and some have a private balcony. All bathrooms are handicapped-accessible, and every apartment is equipped with an emergency call system. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping and delicious meals they no longer need to cook. Along with assisted living, we provide independent living for active seniors and memory care for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. For trusted assisted living Pasadena, CA seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further 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. As we age, staying fit is important to both our mobility and our independence; and even if you haven’t spent your life as a serious fitness buff, experts say it doesn’t mean you can’t start now. However, it is important to check with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise.
The Harvard Medical School recommends several exercises that provide all-around conditioning and don’t require a gym membership. Any one of them can help keep your weight under control, improve balance and range of motion, strengthen bones, protect joints, prevent bladder control problems, and even ward off memory loss. Swimming is recommended for its low impact on the body as the water’s buoyancy supports the body and takes the strain off painful joints. Dr. I-Min Lee, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, explains, “Swimming is good for individuals with arthritis because it’s less weight bearing.” Researchers also report swimming can help improve our mental health. Water aerobics is another low impact way to stay in shape and burn calories. Tai chi, a century’s old Chinese martial art, has also been shown to be beneficial for older adults. Along with incorporating movement and relaxation, experts say Tai chi helps improve balance, which is something we lose as we age. To find a class, check your community center, senior center, YMCA or local health clubs. Other good physical activities for seniors include walking and strength training exercises. For strength training, experts say start slow and learn the proper form. To begin walking, wear the proper clothing for the weather including sun protection and good footwear. Finally, an often-overlooked area of wellness for seniors is maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles that can help prevent incontinence. Kegel exercises are beneficial for both men and women; check the Internet or talk to your doctor to learn how. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Kirkland offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Kirkland is a new 55+ community located in the beautiful Totem Lake area, bordered by Juanita Bay. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. We make it easy to stay fit with a swimming pool, fitness center and studio, and sport courts. Please visit our website for contact info, list of amenities, photos, and map as well as information about MorningStar Senior Living. MorningStar of Kirkland 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 housing Kirkland, WA has to offer. Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/starting-to-exercise At MorningStar of Pasadena, we understand the importance of gathering as a community to “break bread” each day. We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other, and when our residents sit down to a delicious meal served restaurant-style, it creates lasting bonds and fellowship within our “family.”
We recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors, which is why MorningStar meals are prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest of ingredients from high-quality producers and/or are locally sourced. Menu offerings are designed by our Executive Chef and include daily and weekly specials as well as a la carte items. Dining is available all day and a private dining room is available for special meals with family and friends. As a resident of our senior apartments, you will be treated to seasonal menus and special holiday feasts such as those we enjoy at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Also, our Chef modifies menus and recipes to accommodate residents’ changing needs and tastes. Moreover, you can easily self-manage any dietary restrictions as we offer a wide selection of low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, and low-fat foods. MorningStar of Pasadena also believes that nutrient-rich ingredients can help stimulate the appetite and support brain health. Therefore, we prepare meals using BrainWise super foods that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Super foods include acai, leafy dark greens, dark chocolates, berries, and fish, nuts and other foods high in Omega 3 fats. For our memory care residents, food is as much about Community as it is about Nutrition. To encourage appetites, our team members sit and share meals with residents, and many are served “family style” as they are in private homes. Much of our food is modified out of respect for residents’ somewhat compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. For trusted senior living Pasadena, CA seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further 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 senior living Pasadena, CA offers. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
July 2022
Categories
All
|