MorningStar

The loss of a spouse is a devastating experience many seniors suffer. While the journey is unique and personal for each individual, there are commonalities. Getting real information and advice can at least help the person navigate some of the challenges they will face. For many seniors, they have spent decades with their partner and not only share a lifetime of memories and experiences, but have over the last few years relied on them for their primary companionship. So along with their grief, the person may feel isolated and lonely. Experts say it is important to give yourself the time to grieve. Seek support from family and friends who let you express your feelings and talk about your spouse. A grief support group is also helpful as you can connect with others who are going through a similar experience. If you find yourself unable to deal with your grief, consider seeing a therapist or grief counselor. It is important to remember you can still honor the love you feel for your spouse ...

There are many benefits to a good night’s sleep. Dr. Caroline Leaf, a clinical neuroscientist, explains, “Our physical brain and body have limited energy, and like a cell phone’s battery, wear out and need recharging.” She says a full night’s sleep contributes not only to an increasing lifespan but to its quality. Unfortunately, too many people have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Ironically, Dr. Leaf declares the best way to fall asleep is to not worry about falling asleep. While easier said than done, she suggests it may be helpful to spend time outside during daylight hours to help reset your circadian clock. In the evening hours, make a point to do things that allow you to wind down. A few minutes practicing mindfulness or breathing exercises right before bed is another tip. Other ideas include focusing on positive thoughts when you wake up. Think about things you have to look forward to that day and seeing those you love. Experts say, if possible, get out first thing in...

As we age, it is important to plan for not only our financial well-being but future health concerns as many seniors have complex medical needs. When there is no plan in place, and a loved one’s medical condition worsens or an event such as a fall happens, more intensive care may be needed. Without prior planning, it can be overwhelming for both the senior or their family, and decisions have to be made in a rush. Studies show around 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic disease. Many of these diseases require personalized treatments to minimize complications, and require multiple, daily medications. Along with managing chronic conditions, senior care should also include preventive measures and lifestyle support. This includes things like routine health monitoring, exercise and healthy diet; as well as mental health support and social network to ward off depression and anxiety that can interfere with quality of life. Furthermore, senior care can offer the person assista...

Community and connection is important to seniors. Especially for those who struggle with activities of daily living. It can be harder for them to get out of the house, interact with friends, or see family as much as they once did. Families are always inspired by how many friendships they see when they visit their loved ones at MorningStar Assisted Living . Not only do trusted assisted living homes support seniors with daily support and health check-ins, they also establish the groundwork for seniors to have the opportunity to build meaningful friendships in senior living. Sharing Experiences Together MorningStar Senior Living communities are carefully designed and planned to foster senior engagement and togetherness. From the building design to amenities, and activities, everything is thoroughly considered to bring the community together. At MorningStar, we offer movie nights, group classes, community outings, arts and crafts, and plenty of parties to celebrate many special occasions. ...

There are many things that pop up in our minds when we think about senior living communities. Engaging activities, relaxation, support, and a new outlook on life are just some of the ways seniors looking for modern senior living communities might identify with senior living. While the above are all true, we may not consider some of the lesser-known benefits of senior assisted living communities. Refined food options and an elevated dining experience is something truly special to the community at MorningStar Senior Living . Enjoying a Healthy Life in Assisted Living At its core, assisted living is designed with senior health and support in mind. This extends deeply into healthy eating options and a refined dining experience. Seniors want to feel involved in the world around them. Having control over their meals, what they eat, and where they eat it are just some of the ways they can maintain independence. This is why MorningStar has designaned dining rooms, bistros, and patios for senio...

Experts report “at least half of those over age 65 say they are more forgetful than they were when they were younger, experiencing ‘senior moments’ of things like where they put things or recalling somebody’s name.” While several studies show as many as 40 percent of seniors suffer from some level of memory loss, this doesn’t necessarily mean Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Doctors say we need to remember Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and there are some characteristics which separate age-related memory loss from dementia. One example is forgetting how to program your remote control or operate a piece of machinery after not doing it for a while. They stress this is common and typically not a cause for concern but forgetting how to get home or perform routine tasks may be a sign of a bigger problem. Another symptom of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases is forgetting what an object is used for or what it is. Someone with Alzheimer’s can forget they wea...

The Medical News Today published an article from Gut Microbes Reports, which suggests “that not only did the Mediterranean diet change gut microbiota and improve serum lipid levels; it also improved memory and cognition.” The study reported a link between improved memory and learning after “participants” followed a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plants, whole grains and healthy fats. The 20 week study’s participants were 10-week-old rats who half were fed a traditional Western diet and the other half a Mediterranean diet. Researchers say at the end of the study, rats fed a Mediterranean diet had better cognitive flexibility and improved aspects of spatial reference and working memory. The improvements correlated with a healthier gut microbiota. Scott Kaiser, MD, a board-certified geriatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in this study, told Medical News Today: “A growing body of evidence clearly supports a strong correlation...

If you or a loved one is experiencing troubling memory problems, it is important to see your healthcare provider. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, there are steps you can take to mitigate or delay the onset of the disease. The Alzheimer’s Association explains, “Physicians and other medical professionals are a central part of the care team of a person living with dementia. Along with other members — which may include family, friends or others — they work to provide support throughout the course of the disease.” Therefore, one of the best ways to ensure optimal care is to honestly communicate with your physician. To establish a good relationship with the doctor, a person or family member should take some time to prepare for the visit. Helpful tips from the Alzheimer’s Association include: Document any changes in your health, including your mood, memory and behaviors. Make a note of any changes you’ve noticed since your last appointment. Create a...

It seems as if every day the market offers more and more tech devices, gadgets and mobility aids designed to keep older adults moving and give them as independent a lifestyle as possible. Mobility aids include everything from canes and walkers to fall prevention items, wheelchairs, personal scooters, powered wheelchairs, transfer devices and more. The range of products is huge as in the example of walkers. While there are two basic types, standard or rolling (sometimes called rollators); the selection is varied and includes many options and add-ons such as seats and storage baskets. Technology devices include a variety of products like health monitoring systems and cognitive aids to keep seniors safer and more connected. Today’s SOS alerts systems and fall detectors enable seniors to get help when and where they need it. Amplification devices make it easier to hear the TV, and phones are designed to be easy to use and see. Electronic medication reminders help seniors stay on track wi...

As we age, our knees take a beating. We use them to walk, stand and climb stairs, and they are used when we get up from a sitting or lying position. When our knees hurt, everyday tasks are harder to do. Chronic knee pain is often a form of arthritis that occurs when the cushioning cartilage protecting the knee joints starts to wear down. As more cartilage wears away, the space between the bones narrows resulting in bone rubbing against bone. Knee arthritis is a deteriorating condition, and in addition to pain, can cause deformities such as knock knees or bowlegs. Experts explain there are three forms of arthritis that affect the knee. The first is a degenerative joint disease called osteoarthritis; another is the autoimmune disease known as rheumatoid arthritis; and finally post-traumatic knee arthritis that happens with a history of injury or trauma. Factors increasing your risk for knee arthritis include the wear and tear that comes from age, being overweight, heredity, gender, and...

Many seniors new to Medicare have questions about the scope of coverage under the program. Experts explain traditional Medicare covers most health care needs including hospital care, doctor visits and lab tests. However, some services and medical devices are not covered. While Medicare covers treatment and doctor visits regarding medical problems in the ears; many seniors are surprised to learn it does not cover hearing aids. In 2017 a bill was passed that allows hearing aids to be sold over-the-counter without a prescription for people with mild to moderate hearing loss; greatly reducing the cost. Eye exams, glasses and contact lenses are also not covered under traditional Medicare. Medicare does cover things like cataract surgery and other medical conditions of the eye. If you are concerned about the cost of glasses and exams, vision insurance is available. The same goes for most dental care, and there are additional plans out there to help cover the cost of dental work. If you trave...

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...

There has been much in the news lately about Vitamin D including how much we need each day and the fact that far too many people may be deficient. Medical professionals say there are not many foods high in Vitamin D so relying only on what we eat can be challenging. It is estimated close to half of all Americans are deficient in D; but without a blood test, it is difficult to know for sure. Vitamin D is good for us as it contributes to bone health by aiding our bodies with absorbing calcium and phosphorus. It additionally helps nerves carry messages between the brain and other parts of the body as well as fights inflammation. One food high in D is rainbow trout. Dieticians say one 3-ounce serving contains 645 IUs, which is more than the daily recommended serving for adults. Other foods high in D include salmon, which is high in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, egg yolks and canned tuna. Mushrooms grown under UV light also have a good amount of vitamin D. Another source is food forti...

As people enter their twilight years, they encounter unchartered territory. Many are faced with losing spouses, family and friends, as well as their strength, health and mobility. They may fear losing their independence; and worry about losing control over life decisions and their dignity. If they do require help running their household or with personal care, family members may not be nearby to lend a hand or are busy raising their families, and/or pursuing their career. As a loved one concerned about their well-being, it may be time to introduce the idea of assisted living as a way for them to maintain their independence and regain control over their life. If your family is new to the concept of assisted living , the Internet offers resources on the options and how to find the right community for mom or dad’s needs and interests. You can help them discover the benefits of living with a group of their peers, having compassionate daily caregivers, and the freedom and choices community...