MorningStar

  It is important for family members and caregivers to remember that while a person with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease may be declining cognitively, they still have some abilities. Encouraging them to stay involved in meaningful activities is a good way to give them a sense of self-worth and purpose. In fact, a published report from the National Institute of Health states, “engaging older persons with dementia in appropriate activities has been shown to yield beneficial effects such as increasing positive emotions, improving activities of daily living (ADL) and improving the quality of life.” It goes on to say it is important for those with dementia to stay as active and engaged as possible and that “it may even help to maintain quality of life in the more advanced stages of the disease.” As to what kinds of activities are the most effective, studies suggest trying to stimulate all five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell; and the creative arts are a goo...

If mom or dad or another loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, we have a gift idea sure to bring a smile to their face. Robotic pets are soothing companions to those in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s; and a proven resource for providing a means for social interactions as well as stirring memories of when they felt useful. Furthermore, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease reports “robots helped decrease stress and anxiety and also caused a reduction in the use of psychoactive medications and pain medications for patients with dementia .” A robotic pet allows a person to feel like they are providing care for someone – not always on the receiving end of it. However, dementia experts caution the “pet” should be introduced slowly to the person so as not to overwhelm them with feelings of too much responsibility. The Alzheimer’s Association explains it is best to introduce pet or doll therapy in a controlled atmosphere. They add when you let the person ta...

  We understand a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia related disease is devastating and we want area families to know we are here to help shoulder the burden. As experienced specialists in caring for those with memory loss, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease. MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. We are different from other communities in that every aspect of our memory care is designed from the ground up to accommodate residents. Secure and inviting, our Reflections Neighborhood gives residents as much freedom as possible. Through the rigors of MorningStar’s Lavender Sky training, our staff truly understands Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-loss conditions; and after a...

Research has shown over and over again that physical exercise is beneficial to older adults regardless of their age and health limitations.  If you are an older adult who is already physically active, you may be helping to “prevent problems like a lower maximum heart rate, reduced muscle mass, bone loss, stiffened tendons and ligaments, and some joint or nerve problems.”  Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. If you are an older adult with some health limitations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Heart Association offer some useful tips for safely benefiting from physical activity.  Just remember, before you start any new exercise regimen, consult with your health care provider.  Also while you may not be able to attain the recommended 150 minutes a week, experts say you should try to engage in as much physical activity as you can.   ...

If you or a loved one is experiencing some mild memory problems or were recently diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), you may find yourself wondering what that means for the future.  MCI is defined as the fine line between what we think of as normal memory or thinking and dementia.  Dr. Scott M. McGinnis, an associate neurologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, clarifies it by explaining, “We diagnose dementia when a person has changes in memory and thinking that significantly interfere with functioning in usual activities.” He cites examples such as getting lost driving to familiar places or having difficulty writing a check.   MCI is diagnosed when a person has changes in their memory and thinking that goes beyond normal aging but does not qualify as full-blown dementia.  Medical experts explain that MCI may be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease but are also quick to add that not all cases of MCI result in Alzheimer’s but rather may incr...

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has communities throughout the Western U.S. that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Littleton is one of six MorningStar communities in the Denver area. MorningStar was started in 2003 based on a unique mission statements, principles and philosophy.  As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains his intention was to create senior living that was “defined by the human touch. I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”  Out of this vision, came mission statements that still guide the way we deliver service to our residents:  Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.  Even the name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contemplation of the...

  At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our mission is to provide the best senior living Des Moines –West Des Moines offers, which includes compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. Our caring, professional team has a good understanding of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and takes a holistic approach to providing for our most tender residents. MorningStar’s memory care is situated in a separate area we call our “Reflections Neighborhood” and is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease. The expansive area houses 29 secure suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings. Mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together. Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. In ad...

  As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities. This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into assisted living . However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to look into alternatives. It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone. They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others. In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs. Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek provide a range of wellness programs and activiti...