According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), statistics show seniors who report feelings of loneliness are at higher risk for several diseases including dementia and are more likely to experience premature death. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) says “one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.” Social isolation is a lack of social connections and a result of a person living alone, having a spouse and/or other supportive friends or relatives die, or suffering from chronic illness. Other related problems include a lack of transportation, mobility impairment and untreated hearing loss, which all limit the senior’s opportunity to engage with others.
AARP Research surveyed adults 45 and older regarding their feelings of loneliness. Of those respondents who rated their health as excellent, only 25 percent said they were lonely. Among participants who said their health was poor, 55 percent reported feeling lonely. The CDC also says studies find social isolation or loneliness is linked to a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke as well as a 50% percent increased risk of dementia. If you are looking for exceptional senior housing in Kirkland, WA, MorningStar may be the place for you. MorningStar of Kirkland is designed to provide active seniors with a carefree lifestyle, as we handle the maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping. This leaves you free to pursue your interests, explore new hobbies, travel and meet new friends. As our contemporary-styled building is both a gracious home and high-end resort, we offer a range of amenities, concierge services, activities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. With 151 well-designed apartments and inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer all the comforts of home. Each apartment has a full kitchen with premium cabinets and countertops, in-suite washer/dryer, private patio or balcony, storage space and more. For peace of mind, all apartments have a handicap-accessible bathroom and 24-hour emergency call system; and we offer secure, underground parking. Since we are pet friendly, you will not need to leave behind your furry friend. Please visit our website to learn more. 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 housing Kirkland, WA has to offer. Source: cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html
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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 While it is true that we are all living longer, there are some steps you can take to help make those years healthier than ever. The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors incorporate the following habits into their daily lives: eat a balanced diet; keep your mind and body active; do not smoke; get regular checkups; and practice safety habits to avoid accidents and prevent falls.
The Family Doctor website also offers some common sense advice on how even small changes in your lifestyle can improve your health even if you are already a senior. Their primary recommendation is to add physical activity to your daily life and make changes to your diet. By increasing your daily physical activity, it will help improve the strength of your bones and muscles. In addition, we know that stronger muscles can help to prevent falls, and if you do experience a fall, those stronger bones are less apt to break. By daily exercising, you can also help improve many chronic health problems such as diabetes. Seniors new to exercising should consult their health care provider before they begin. Once they are given the go ahead, they need to start slowly. Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do and experts suggest breaking up 30 minutes of daily activity into increments if it is easier for you. Consider walking for 15 minutes twice a day or doing 10 minutes 3 times a day. Strength training also offers seniors benefits but again the suggestion is to begin slowly. Start with 1 or 5-pound weights and do a few exercises at a time. Resistance bands are also easy to use and can help to strengthen upper arms and leg muscles. The article also suggests making changes to your diet. Try making small changes one at a time that add up to improved health. Adding more fiber to your meals gets your colon working better and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. A heart healthy diet to try is the Mediterranean diet which promotes foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Lastly, they recommend you drink more water and eat more whole foods. At MorningStar of Kirkland, our community is designed to promote residents’ health and well-being with a range of hospitality services, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our beautiful property has 151 spacious apartments in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Amenities include restaurant-style dining, fitness center & studio, indoor pool and a Zen garden. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior housing in Kirkland. WA. 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 senior housing Kirkland, WA offers. Please contact us or visit our website to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home. Source:familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html If you are looking for senior living in Hillsboro, MorningStar is a step above the rest. Our vibrant 55+ community offers all the amenities and services you need to live life to the fullest. For the most active seniors, MorningStar of Hillsboro’s independent living allows you to continue the adventure.
For stress-free living and a refreshing change of lifestyle, MorningStar has it all. We offer stylish apartments with a variety of floor plans and configurations. Each apartment is designed for your every comfort and only needs your personal furnishings to make it feel like home. Weekly housekeeping and laundry and linen service give you more time to focus on other pursuits. And yes, we are pet friendly. MorningStar of Hillsboro has beautifully appointed, warm and inviting common areas where residents can comfortably gather and enjoy the day. In addition we offer all-day, restaurant-style dining; onsite amenities such as a fitness center, bistro bar, theater/chapel, art studio, salon, swimming pool and more. Residents are also welcome to participate in wellness programs, activities and special events. Another thing you will appreciate about MorningStar of Hillsboro is the freedom from costly, unexpected home repairs and on-going maintenance. Instead you will love the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living. Also, you will know where you stand financially with a predictable budget as most of your living expenses (including homeowner’s insurance and property tax) are controlled through the bundled Monthly Rental Fee. Located in the popular AmberGlen neighborhood, residents enjoy the outdoors with access to our garden and strolling paths as well as our proximity to Tualatin Hills Nature Park. Kaiser Permanente Medical Center is minutes away and we are only 20 minutes northwest of Portland. Please visit our website for more information including a 360° tour and floor plans. 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. We all know that even as seniors, physical exercise is important to maintaining healthy bodies but medical experts want us to remember that mental exercise is also essential to good brain health. Luckily there are many fun and entertaining ways to exercise our mind and include an array of games on our tablets or computers as well as ones that only need pen and paper. Games like Sudoku, mahjong, chess, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and solitaire are enjoyable and challenging ways to improve memory and stimulate the brain.
Moreover, there is good evidence that supports this claim such as the study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. The research team conducted a long-term study that found seniors who did crosswords four days a week had a 47 percent lower risk of dementia than those who only did them once a week. Also, while there is the perception that chess is only for those who are very intelligent, it turns out the skills used to play a good game of chess are ones we all should cultivate as they may make us smarter. Experts say chess encourages “concentration and focus around ‘if then’ thinking, which is useful when making decisions.” The game forces you to think a few steps ahead and that type of thinking can be especially helpful for older people who are navigating options in life and could use a little help with creative thinking. The good news is that many of these types of games are free or cost very little and even the Internet offers lots of options. To play a game of solitaire, you only need a deck of cards but playing on your tablet offers many different varieties of games of which some may be new to you. Crossword and Sudoku books as well as jigsaw puzzles can be ordered online and are very reasonably priced for entertainment you get from them. They also make great gifts for seniors. MorningStar’s senior housing in Kirkland, WA offers stylish, no-maintenance apartments, a variety of onsite amenities, and a broad community of friends. Located in the beautiful Totem Lake area, we have direct access to both private and public walking paths and are minutes from Juanita Bay, the Sammamish River Trail, and Sammamish Valley Park. The top-ranked Evergreen Medical Center is a couple of blocks away and Seattle only 20 minutes to the southwest. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Kirkland. MorningStar of Kirkland offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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: sixtyandme.com/keep-your-brain-buzzing-with-these-free-brain-games-for-seniors/ Did you know it is estimated 895 million people worldwide will have some level of vision impairment by 2050. The Lancet reports it signals a 150 percent increase over the next 30 years and includes loss of vision from cataracts and glaucoma. Experts say while many vision problems can be treated, in some cases they can also be prevented by adopting a few simple habits.
If you have already gotten into the habit of wearing sunscreen and a sun-blocking hat when you are outdoors for any period of time, optometrists say you need to complete your protection by making sure to wear protective sunglasses. Exposure to UV increases our risk for cataracts and your sunglasses should have a label reading “100 percent protection from UV and UVB rays” or “100 percent protection against UV 400.” If you are outside working for long hours, consider wrap-around style sunglasses, and if you are doing work such as trimming bushes or chopping wood, be sure to wear safety sunglasses. As the risk for eye diseases increase as we age, the National Institute on Aging recommends having your eyes checked regularly by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. For those over age 50, you should get a dilated eye exam every year or as recommended by your eye care professional. Everyone over the age of 60 should get a dilated eye exam every year or two. Regardless of age, most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated exam at least once a year. Other ways to protect our eyes as we age is to eat a balanced diet with lots of fresh vegetables and fruits. Additionally, stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active. If you do have high blood pressure or diabetes, you need to learn how to manage the condition/disease and follow your doctor’s guidelines. MorningStar of Kirkland is proud to offer adults 55+ a carefree lifestyle to give you more time to the things you love. Our beautiful community offers a selection of independent living apartments, luxury amenities such as indoor and outdoor dining venues, pool, sport courts, art studio, and fitness center to promote a healthy lifestyle for residents. Contact us or visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living in Kirkland, WA. 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 Kirkland, WA offers. 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 aged 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. At MorningStar of Kirkland, we offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home has 151 stylish senior apartments in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. Please visit our website for more information about independent senior living in Kirkland, WA. 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 senior living Kirkland, WA offers. Source: nia.nih.gov/news/cognitive-super-agers-defy-typical-age-related-decline-brainpower In an article in Medical News Today experts discuss some of the common myths and facts regarding arthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two main types of arthritis, and a national survey found nearly half of adults 65 years and older have been diagnosed with arthritis. OA, the most common form and leading cause of disability in older adults, is the result of cartilage between the bones in a joint wearing down.
Many people believe arthritis is only a disease of the elderly but RA, while not as common as OA, typically starts in individuals as young as 20 to 40 years old. People also mistakenly think if a joint hurts, it must be arthritis. Doctors say there are several reasons a person may experience pain in and around joints including old injuries, bursitis, and tendinitis. Another myth is you shouldn’t exercise if you have arthritis; however, studies show exercise can actually help with range of motion and strength in the joint (consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or activity). The American College of Rheumatology says, “Exercise and arthritis can and should coexist. People with arthritis who exercise regularly have less pain, more energy, improved sleep, and better day-to-day function.” Then there is the debate on whether heat is better than ice for sore joints. The Guy’s and St Thomas’s National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust in the UK, explains, “Used in the right way, heat can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints and muscles. Cold application can help reduce joint inflammation and swelling.” Moreover, experts say believing arthritis is unpreventable is only partially true as there are things people can do to mitigate risk or slow down the progression such as maintaining a healthy body weight. If you are looking for outstanding senior housing in Kirkland, WA, MorningStar may be the place for you. MorningStar of Kirkland provides all the services, resort-style amenities, and programs to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. Please visit our website for a full list of amenities, apartment floor plans and to inquire about availability and pricing. 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 to learn more about the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA offers. Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health.
Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all of the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet and alcohol consumption. Medical professionals say to remember the time spent with your doctor is short, so to help prevent errors with care, come prepared to your appointment by putting in writing critical points you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple App store to help you focus on the questions you need to ask during your appointment. Other things to do before the appointment include putting together a list of medications you take, the dosage, and why you take it. If you worry about forgetting something you were told during the visit, take along a family member or trusted friend. Also, ask questions and seek a second opinion if it would make you more comfortable. Most importantly if a medical problem is not getting better, remain persistent in addressing it with your medical team. Considering senior housing in Kirkland, WA? MorningStar of Kirkland provides residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful community has 151 stylish senior apartments in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. Please contact us for more information on available pricing 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 housing Kirkland, WA offers. Source:nbcnews.com/health/health-news/nearly-1-4-us-hospital-patients-experience-harmful-event-study-finds-rcna65119 When an older adult trips and falls, it can be life changing. Consequences include serious head injuries, hip fractures and broken bones, and in the worst cases, fatalities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries each year. Furthermore, more problems can arise as many seniors need several months to recover, which can cause a decline in strength and mobility as well as mental agility. It can also lead to the loss of independence and isolation.
Statistics show most falls happen for a handful of reasons and being forewarned may help prevent one. The environment, especially the person’s home and surrounding outdoor area is one of the biggest culprits. Danger spots include slippery bathtubs, high mattresses, steep stairs, poorly lit hallways, loose rugs, obstacles in walkways and clutter. Experts say a little bit of time spent addressing these problems with things like non-slip bath mats and grab bars, more lighting, removing clutter, etc. can help prevent a fall. Another risk factor for a fall is chronic health conditions that affect balance and mobility. Arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure can mean a person might experience dizziness or be unable to control muscles to stop a fall. Growing older also puts us at risk for diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts, which in turn, leads to more accidents. Solutions include having yearly eye exams and making sure your eyeglass prescription is up to date. Experts say it is important for seniors to stay as fit as possible as aging affects muscle strength, flexibility and coordination. Check with your doctor for information on balance and strength exercises. If a medication is making you dizzy or drowsy, talk to your doctor about it. There may be another drug just as effective that doesn’t have the same side effects. At MorningStar of Kirkland, we offer residents comfort, security, and built-in companionship. Our beautiful home has well designed apartments in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities, wellness programs, and activities. Our residents’ safety is important to us, and each apartment is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about luxury senior housing in Kirkland, WA. MorningStar of Kirkland’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 senior housing Kirkland, WA has to offer. Please schedule a tour to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home. Source: seniorsafetyreviews.com/5-biggest-causes-seniors-falling/ |
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