Simple Stretches Can Increase Flexibility, Improve Balance and Relieve Pain

September 16, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do to remain as independent as possible. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website.

MorningStar at Arcadia has 80 assisted living suites, and another 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our beautiful community provides tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to meet the needs of residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. If you are looking for a senior living in Phoenix, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix offers.

Having Surgery? Tips to Help Your Recovery

September 14, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Medical experts say there are things we can do before and after that may help encourage our recovery from surgery. One of the first things Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, is to think of surgery not as a sprint but rather as a full marathon or race. She explains, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after. You want your body to be as prepared as possible, and exercise and good nutrition before and after surgery are part of this."

Before your surgery, your doctor may have you screened for a series of health problems including malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and then take steps to address them. As exercise is another important part of getting in shape, you should talk to your surgeon about what is safe for you to do. If you feel you need more guidance, ask if you are a candidate for a pre-habilitation program as it can show you the best type of exercise to safely strengthen your body in readiness for surgery. Also, be sure to ask about what kind of exercise is safe to do after the surgery. Doctors say typically the quicker you are to move, the quicker you get your strength back.

If you find yourself suffering from preoperative anxiety, ask your surgeon to walk you through the experience so you know what to expect including “pre-surgery, during surgery, the hospital stay and recovery after surgery," Dr. Fisher explains. Your post-surgery diet should be rich in protein, and avoid sugary and processed foods. Also stay hydrated. Quitting smoking is another thing that offers big benefits in post-surgical outcomes as “smoking increases the risk of blood clots, reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to the tissues that need it and increases stress on the heart.” Finally, if something doesn’t seem right about your recovery, contact your surgeon.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we provide high-quality assisted living and memory care as well as respite care. Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are recovering from surgery or an illness and require some day-to-day support services. Along with providing a fully furnished suite, our respite residents are treated to three healthy and delicious daily meals created by our Executive Chef, 24-hour care and medication management. Contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living in Albuquerque.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery

A Message to the Spouse or Adult Child of a Senior with Memory Loss

August 24, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Assisted living facilities cannot replace you, nor your love for your family member or spouse. While it may feel selfish or guilt inflicting to consider other living options for your loved one with extra needs, it’s quite the opposite. As a caregiver, you live a busy life; you have a family, a job, and household upkeep to look after. When you are living a preoccupied life while also trying to give care to an elderly loved one, it may feel as though you are falling short, with things slipping through the cracks. Assisted living facilities are an extra tool to supply better senior care, not a replacement for the family.

You might feel apprehensive about turning your role of caregiver over to someone else, despite your self-sacrifice taking its toll on your own health and well-being. Please know that at MorningStar of Sparks, we are here not to replace you, but to walk beside you and be a loving presence in your family's life. As an assisted living facility, MorningStar is aware of the time, dedication, and exhaustion families experience when caring for their loved one with memory deterioration. Our expertise is caring for the unique needs of our residents through empathy, community, and rigorous staff training based on morals and values.

Within its communities, MorningStar offers assisted living with support at various levels that varies depending on the resident. This support aims to help complete the activities of daily living, while still encouraging independence and exploration. 24-7 Care Managers are on site to ensure your comfort that your loved one’s safety is in prompt and able hands in the event an accident does occur.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living and senior living in Sparks, Nevada. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Reno.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar in Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Sparks, Nevada.

This Senior Living Community in Reno is Completely Renovated with Style

August 22, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Within recent years, senior living has become more modernized and offers seniors a luxurious, stress-free environment. Dull, lonely, and haunting halls aren’t a reality for many senior or assisted living facilities. This is especially true for MorningStar of Sparks. Recently renovated and offering resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Sparks has become Reno’s most trusted choice in care for senior living and assisted living.

Conveniently located east of Reno in the Sparks neighborhood of Wingfield Springs, the senior community provides residents with freedom and choices, luxury amenities, maintenance-free living, and best-in-class dining and hospitality. The bistro, fireside patio, and spa are just some of the few conveniences that MorningStar offers for their residents.

The recently renovated community includes all new aesthetics with beautiful new chairs and tables in the full-service dining area, bistro, and the brand-new wine bar. The library has been completely revamped with new furniture and fixtures. MorningStar’s senior living facility in Reno also now hosts a garden room that encourages community gardening and can be quite relaxing, especially for those in memory care and assisted living. There is a new theater, and lounge areas that are great for hosting a get together with friends or family. Not to mention, a new coat of paint inside and out and brand-new carpet throughout the entire building.

If you’re curious about this newly renovated location, Morningstar of Sparks offers a range of living options including 128 bright suites for independent living and 80 for assisted living. Additionally, our Reflections Neighborhood offers 32 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Welcome Home to MorningStar of Santa Fe

August 22, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, our goal is to provide residents with a comfortable, inviting home where they can safely age in place. Our services, amenities and wellness programs are all geared toward accomplishing this. Residents also receive the often overlooked benefits of community living such as healthy social connections and peace of mind knowing loving support is available whenever they need it.

All assisted living residents have an individualized care plan created to help them maintain their independence, and our 24/7 care managers make sure the plan is carried out. MorningStar’s care managers are dedicated, hard-working individuals who provide loving care to our incredible residents and enjoy building strong relationships with them.

Many of our daily activities are just plain fun and include movie nights, trivia and card games, craft classes, exercise classes and much more. Our all-day meal service is targeted to seniors’ pilates as well as their nutritional needs. We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is the centerpiece of personal wellness that starts with proper diets and healthy choices. When enjoyed in community, it provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.

We also have a partnership with Genesis Rehabilitation, a leading provider of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory therapy for older adults. The alliance includes full-time, in-house Genesis therapists and expands our resident services in integrated wellness, promoting optimal independence and abundant life for seniors.

Along with many support services, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides the physical environment to ensure older adults live as safely and as comfortably as possible. Assisted living suites are equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and each unit has an emergency call system. In addition to 56 assisted living suites, we have 29 secure suites devoted to residents with memory impairment. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Santa Fe, NM offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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 Santa Fe, NM offers.

Help Aging Parents Organize Important Documents

August 19, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

In the event of a medical emergency or illness, to file income taxes, or apply for state or federal benefits, experts say it is helpful and maybe even lifesaving for seniors to have their paperwork in order. Important documents to have available to a family member or trusted friend include property deeds, history of financial income and medical information. For example, Stuart Furman, A Place for Mom legal expert and elder attorney, explains if your parents are eligible to apply for veterans’ benefits or Medicaid, they will need proof of past income and financial resources.

If you are the designated person, start by helping your parents compile a record of their bank accounts as well as sources of financial income including pensions, 401(k) information, and annuity contracts. In addition, help them organize information regarding savings bonds, stock certificates, or brokerage accounts. File these documents along with all property deeds and titles to vehicles in a home safe where they are secure. Files should also include several years of income taxes as well as a list of credit cards and outstanding loans or debts owed to them.

If your parents have a living will and/or a durable power of attorney, you should have a copy as it is important in the case of a medical emergency to be able to quickly get your hands on such documents. Other things medical professionals say are important to get your hands on quickly is a list of medications your parents are taking, their medical history and insurance cards. Other types of documents to safely file or to create include end of life planning and estate planning.

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia offers a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love. This is made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality of life other communities simply cannot match. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about assisted living homes.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/essential-documents

Helping a Loved One Transition to an Assisted Living Community

August 19, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Many times, a move to assisted living for an elderly loved one is due to an event such as a recent hospitalization for a fall or a worsening medical condition. This means the person does not have the time to process the move from a beloved home, and the sudden change may be very upsetting. Even for seniors who have had the time to plan a move into assisted living, it may be challenging.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we know the many benefits assisted living communities such as ours afford to residents; but at the same time, we recognize any change is difficult and moving into assisted living is certainly one of those events. In addition to our own experience, experts also offer suggestions to families on how best to support their loved one during the transition.

It may ease the transition for the person to get as familiar as possible with the new community and staff before the move. Also, after a decision is made, let your loved one decide what furniture and keepsakes they want to move with them and help them decorate. If possible, arrange furniture and decorations in a similar way and display photos and other keepsakes to make the new place feel like “home.”

Keep in mind the person may feel abandoned, or frustrated with their perceived loss of independence and decision making, and have a hard time adjusting to a change in their routine. Give the person plenty of support during the first days and weeks at the community, but don’t overdo it. This could actually be counterproductive and prevent a loved one from making an adjustment. Instead, emphasizing the move is an opportunity to start a new chapter in their life.

In some cases, seniors make a quick adjustment and recognize the advantage of no longer worrying about their homes’ maintenance or preparing meals. They like the ease of a more robust social life and feel a peace of mind knowing help is around whenever they need it. For others it may take a little more time.

In addition to assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque offers individualized memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (from a week to a full month) to see if we are a good fit. Please visit our website for information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other senior living in Albuquerque.

Meet MorningStar’s European-Trained Executive Chef: Jacques Cornelis

July 25, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

It is important to maintain healthy and regular eating habits when living in a senior living community. If your elder parent or loved one is struggling to feed themselves or you’re noticing a great change in their diet, it may be time to consider assisted living. Assisted living is a great choice for elders that can maintain most daily activities but may need help with routines such as eating regular meals and cooking by themselves.

MorningStar of Sparks believes diet is the centerpiece of personal wellness. Food can be utilized as a healing medicine and is one of the great joys of living and should be enjoyed with family or within a community. Our trained Executive Chefs design seasonal menus that feature the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible. We also understand diets alter as we age. Our Chefs are trained in how best to modify menus and recipes to accommodate changing needs and tastes. Our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage.

Jacques Cornelis is MorningStar of Sparks’ European-Trained Executive Chef that is new to senior living and is excited to work with the great crew in the kitchen. Jacques first entered a professional kitchen at 14. For the next four years, it was one day of school and four days of culinary apprenticeship at De Watermolen, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Jacques worked ten years in the finest restaurants in Antwerp, Brussels and Paris. On why French cuisine holds the world’s stage, he explains simply, “It’s the sauces. They can make the plainest dish extraordinary. Besides, France offers the greatest of food baskets to work with.” In 2007, Jacques won Iron Chef’s “Blazing Pans” event at the Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival, pitted against the chef of North Star.

On the deep satisfaction of working in senior living, Jacques comments this way: “I’ll be 64 next month. So I have a very good understanding of the special requirements of senior clients. In other words, I know what rings their bell.” But give Jacques any audience and watch him perform. He loves walking to the dining room and hearing feedback. He regularly hosts made-to-order omelette stations and monthly cooking demonstrations in our community.

To learn more about MorningStar’s amenities and Assisted Living in Reno please contact us. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other assisted living facilities in Nevada.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent living and assisted living in Reno, NV.

Strategies for Communicating with a Loved One Suffering from Dementia

July 22, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.

Typically, in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought. They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words. Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back.

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest. If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions. Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person. In addition, you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions. Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication. When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words. Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our goal is to be the best senior living Phoenix offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please visit our website 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 for more information about the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

Visiting a Loved One in an Assisted Living Community

June 24, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Especially on birthdays and holidays, many of us wish to brighten the day for a loved one in an assisted living community by letting them know they are very special to us. To help make our visit more meaningful, experts provide some tips to keep in mind when we visit.

You may want to plan in advance an activity your loved one would enjoy doing with you during your visit. Examples include bringing along a puzzle to work on, a Scrabble board or a trivia game. You could get prints of current photos of the family made to add to an album or to start a new one. If they are a music lover, bring some new music to enjoy together. If they love listening to stories, get an audiobook to listen to or buy a favorite family movie to watch together. If they love sending greeting cards to family and friends, buy a box of cards and help them get them ready to mail. If they love to be pampered, bring along the supplies to give them a manicure.

If the weather is cooperative, take advantage of the community’s outdoor area to soak up the sun or take your loved one to a local park and plan to share a simple meal of sandwiches and a drink. Bringing your kids along automatically provides a more cheerful energy and will give the resident pleasant memories long after the little ones have gone home. However, do keep in mind that too many visitors at a time can be hectic and it may be better to spread out the visits.

If you do want to bring gifts, remember the person most likely does not have a lot of extra room for anything too big. Gifts of food are generally welcomed and can be shared with others in the community. Other tips include not visiting when you are ill, and be sure to wash your hands when you first come in to avoid spreading germs.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arcadia, we provide lots of activities and programs for our residents, but we know they always look forward to seeing their family. Our community has beautiful and inviting common areas to enjoy with visiting family and friends. For Senior living Phoenix seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Arcadia, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place.

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 assisted living Phoenix has to offer.

Discover the Many Benefits of Assisted Living

June 20, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Assisted living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of care and support. For many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services. This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency.

For older adults who are still homeowners, assisted living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to an assisted living community provides an extra layer of security as well as amenities and programs not offered at most apartments. Another reason you may want to consider assisted living is that communities such as MorningStar of Santa Fe are designed for the mobility and safety of seniors who may not be as sturdy on their feet as they once were. To modify your own home to accommodate physical limitations can be quite expensive.

Assisted living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones. In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute. In fact, one of our mission statements is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.” We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort.

We encourage you to learn more about MorningStar. Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.

MorningStar of Santa Fe’s mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing 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 resort-style amenities, we provide residents the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

The Move to MorningStar of Albuquerque

June 13, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Albuquerque’s MorningStar community may be your answer. Located on the city’s northeast side and ideally situated for mountain views, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides an extensive range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more.

When a loved one needs more care than they can get in their own home, it may be time to start thinking about a move to assisted living. If your family is new to the concept of senior living and all it means, please know that MorningStar will work with you each step of the way to help you make informed decisions, and make the eventual move-in process easier.

To start with, we understand that for your parent or elderly relative, the move is a major lifestyle transition, which is why we approach each move-in with great sensitivity. One way we do this is to try and nurture a relationship from the start that reinforces the positive aspects of community life and tries to help the person envision the many possibilities of a new adventure.

Once your family puts down a deposit to secure a chosen suite, our “House to Home” plan goes into full swing. This starts by collecting pertinent information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move-in including a medical assessment and physician’s care plan for each new assisted living and memory care resident.

On a more practical level, we offer packing tips including what items are most important to bring such as furnishings and personal belongings that are most significant emotionally, nostalgically as well as functionally. We want the resident’s new “home” to bring them comfort and joy, which is why we suggest if possible, furnishings should be arranged similar to their prior residence. Keep in mind; it is especially helpful to those with low vision or cognitive impairment.

This is just a start of the on-going support we extend to new residents and their families. We are ready to answer any questions you may have and direct you to our website for contact information as well as other pertinent details. MorningStar of Albuquerque’s entire team is engaged in finding ways to build a true family, one loving relationship at a time.

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 Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

Are You Looking for Senior Living in Phoenix?

May 23, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

As senior living provides a range of benefits such as socialization, healthcare, amenities, and convenient services, it is no surprise it has become a popular lifestyle for many older adults. If your family has already started the search for senior communities in Phoenix, you know there are many options. This may have left you wondering how to narrow down your search to find the optimal community for yourself or a loved one?

Experts say the first thing to do is to find a home that provides the proper level of care. If you are a senior who needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), assisted living offers you the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living your life to the fullest. In addition to 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management, many assisted living communities offer services including meals, onsite amenities, scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more. They also provide opportunities for learning and laughing, with social calendars full of programming, events, and educational opportunities.

For families with a loved one suffering from mem o ry loss due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, start by looking at homes that specialize in memory care. The community should provide a secure environment as well as programming, activities and care that meets the needs of each resident.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we offer all of that and more. We define health and well-being holistically and offer services and programming that supports the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Our beautiful community has 80 private assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted senior living Phoenix families can count on, contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Arcadia’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.

In the Future Hip and Knee “Replacements” May Be Done Without Surgery

May 23, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Researchers say a future of hip or knee “replacements” done without surgery may be on the horizon. By employing a combination of drugs and stem-cell therapies, it may be possible to “repair cartilage before osteoarthritis sets in or an operation is needed.”

Osteoarthritis, commonly afflicting the elderly, is a degenerative disease attributed to "wear and tear" but can also be caused by earlier sports injuries, obesity and other trauma to the cartilage around the knee, hip or shoulder joints. Experts explain the loss of cartilage, which does not have its own blood supply or nerves, limits its ability to mend itself and is the major cause of joint pain and arthritis affecting over 32.5 million people in the U.S. In 2017 alone, there were 754,000 knee replacements done and 448,000 hip replacements.

Michael Longaker, a professor of surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and co-director of its Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, explains the goal of his research is to not wait for osteoarthritis to develop, but to halt the degenerative process so people never need to have a joint replaced. His team’s focus is on programming stem cells to become cartilage cells. Other researchers are working to develop drugs that stop the progression of “wear and tear” on joints. Researchers are also looking at methods to “effectively deliver new cells and compounds” as well as designing materials to help new cells integrate with existing tissue. Scientists admit they still have a ways to go before they will have alternative therapies in place but remain optimistic.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we have 48 private stylish suites for assisted living and another 21 secure suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all-day in our full-service dining room, luxury amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship. We are committed to provide the best senior living Albuquerque offers and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional retirement communities.

Source:wsj.com/articles/a-knee-or-hip-replacement-without-surgery-its-on-the-horizon-11631196055

MorningStar at Arcadia Provides a Lifestyle of Comfort, Wellness and Community

April 29, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar at Arcadia provide residents with all the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them safely age in place. Moreover, as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it.

Right from the ground up, our home is designed to meet the needs and comfort of our residents. We offer beautifully appointed common areas including inviting gathering areas, bistro, salon, fitness room, chapel, theatre, and an attractive dining room for all-day, restaurant-style dining. Residents also enjoy the outdoors with a fireside courtyard.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, we recognize that good nutrition is vital to seniors’ health, which is why we put such an effort into the food we serve. Our Executive Chef inspired meals are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients. In addition, we offer a range of nutritional choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet. MorningStar’s Chef even uses “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens.

Too often seniors assume assisted living means an end to their independence, but studies show the opposite is true. When older adults get the daily personal care they need, it helps to restore their confidence and frees them up to move forward with living life to the fullest. At MorningStar, we help you do so with extensive support services, wellness programs and activities. Our contemporary suites are move-in ready and just require your furnishings and personal items. For your safety and wellbeing, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. We are also pet friendly!

MorningStar at Arcadia provides 80 assisted living suites with the choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (including penthouse suites). In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website to learn what sets MorningStar at Arcadia apart from other senior living Phoenix offers.

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 Phoenix has to offer.

Memory Care at MorningStar of Santa Fe

April 21, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Santa Fe provides 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with memory impairment caused by 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.

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia. Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.

We also embrace the world of dementia, which begins with accepting the diagnosis, as difficult as this can be. Utilizing MorningStar’s extensive experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the brain disease, regardless of the type of dementia, and embrace the changes needed to ensure the finest care. This includes embracing our own communication style to calm or stimulate and physically embracing our tender residents as we recognize the power of touch. However, most importantly, we embrace hope.

Lavender Sky’s last component is exploration and is approached each day with a wide range of purposeful, individualized solutions. Acknowledging that the essence of the person lies beneath the fog of the disease, we explore a person’s life, history and preferences to create a personalized care plan.

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families. Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter the world of their loved ones. For trusted senior living Santa Fe, NM families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

Medications May Increase the Risk of Falls

April 19, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

The Harvard Medical School reports it is estimated 1 in 3 people over age 65 will fall each year; and every 19 minutes a senior dies from a fall-related injury. Statistics show women are at higher risk for a fall but men are more likely to die from their injuries than women.

Seniors should be aware of several things that can affect balance and lead to a fall. These include certain medications, inner ear problems, foot pain, weight changes and a vitamin D deficiency. Anti-hypertensive medications prescribed to keep blood pressure under control or decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure are all known to affect balance. A common side effect is orthostatic hypotension, a condition that happens if blood pressure gets too low; and results in lightheadedness, faintness and dizziness especially when the person attempts to stand from a sitting or lying down position.

Medications that suppress the central nervous system may also result in a fall as they reduce alertness, and slow reactions and movements. Some of these types of drugs include anti-anxiety medications like diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). Additionally, antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are used in over-the-counter sleep aids like Nyquil and Sominex, or combined with acetaminophen in products like Tylenol PM.

If you or a loved one takes medication to treat an overactive bladder or tricyclic antidepressants to help lessen chronic pain, they too can affect a person’s balance. Other drugs that increase the risk of a fall are opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, our 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. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we provide comprehensive memory care. For trusted senior living Albuquerque, NM seniors and their families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

Source:health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/preventing-falls

Learn More About MorningStar and Our Sparks, NV Community

March 26, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

MorningStar of Sparks is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company whose vision is “to be a company of servant-minded, purpose-driven leaders in our senior communities and throughout the world.” This means right from the start we have made a point to staff our loving homes with individuals who feel called to serve and understand that seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

In addition, we support MorningStar’s mission of serving others here at home and throughout the world including supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and the Casa Bernabé orphanage in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We also support MorningStar’s partnership with “Lifewater,” a non-profit organization that focuses on delivering safe water sources to villages across the globe.

MorningStar of Sparks is also guided by our company’s founding principles that include:

Honoring God in our business practices and relationships
Valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals
Investing generously in our team’s ability to serve well

Thus our home’s first priority is to create a comfortable, compassionate home while striving to meet residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. Also, while our company was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews, and understand it is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person.

MorningStar of Sparks has 128 stylish independent living suites, with a variety of one- and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, we have 80 assisted living suites for those needing help with the activities of daily living. Within the Reflections Neighborhood 32 secure suites are devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.

Our community is filled with spacious, beautifully appointed common areas both inside and out and include a fireside patio and all-season porches, general store. salon, theater, bistro and fitness room. Residents enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining inspired by our Executive Chef that features the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other seniors living in Sparks, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”
MorningStar of Sparks represents the very best in independent living, assisted living and memory care.Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please contact us for more information about outstanding senior living in Sparks, NV.

Tips to Reduce the Risk of Falls

March 23, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls. Medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall. Also please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving. The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are and it is vital that we keep moving. To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor. Bring to the visit a list of all your medications, and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives. It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else. Also, talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you. Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention. Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting, and add more if needed. Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home. Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if needed to help maintain your balance. Install grab bars and railings where needed.

At MorningStar at Arcadia, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers 80 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 30 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with memory impairment. For trusted senior living Phoenix, AZ seniors and their families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

Learn More About MorningStar’s Community in Albuquerque, NM

March 23, 2022 by MS Arcadia in Senior Living

If you live alone, no longer drive, have problems with mobility, and feel like you would welcome more social interaction into your life, please consider community living. Homes like MorningStar of Albuquerque provide residents with all the services, amenities and wellness programs to help them safely age in place. Moreover, as one of our cherished residents, you get peace of mind knowing help is at hand whenever you need it.

Right from the ground up, our home is designed to meet the needs and comfort of our residents. We offer beautifully appointed common areas including inviting gathering areas, bistro, salon, fitness room, chapel/theater, and an attractive dining room for all-day, restaurant-style dining. Residents also enjoy the outdoors with a fireside patio and porches.

At MorningStar of Albuquerque, we recognize that good nutrition is vital to seniors’ health, which is why we put such an effort into the food we serve. Our Executive Chef inspired meals are largely prepared from scratch and include the freshest ingredients. In addition, we offer a range of nutritional choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat so residents can self-manage their diet. MorningStar’s Chef even uses “super foods” such as acai berries, Omega 3 fats, dark chocolate, and leafy, dark greens.

MorningStar of Albuquerque provides 48 assisted living suites with the choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood has 21 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website to learn what sets MorningStar apart from other senior living Albuquerque offers.

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 Albuquerque has to offer.