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Visual and Spatial Issues are Common With Alzheimer’s Disease

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Most of us are familiar with the forgetfulness and confusion Alzheimer’s disease causes. Especially in the early stages, family and friends start noticing the person is constantly repeating themselves and/or forgetting where they put things. However, experts say there are other commonly occurring signs of a serious problem. One of those early warning signs can be having trouble navigating and even getting lost in familiar places. A decline in spatial awareness as well as vision problems can cause a person in the early stages of Alzheimer’s to become confused in new places and have trouble identifying objects and people. Spatial and visual issues may include looking at an object and not seeing it clearly for what it is. Examples could be a person sees a blue floor as water or a dark spot in a rug as a hole in the floor. They may be unable to tell if their house is to the left of them or to judge distances accurately. Some people may mistake their child for their spouse or another relat...
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Keep Your Brain Sharp With Games and Puzzles

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While there is a long-held belief that memory loss and aging are inevitable, it is now known we can help keep our brains sharp. Studies have shown our brains continue to build new connections, and engaging in activities that challenge us can lead to sustained brain development and offer new ways to approach challenges. The most effective puzzles and games linked to a reduced risk of dementia are those requiring critical thinking, problem-solving and memory recall. Patrick Porter, Ph.D, a neuroscience expert and founder of BrainTap, explains “These activities stimulate the brain by challenging it to find patterns, make connections, and think creatively. They require mental flexibility and encourage the brain to adapt and reorganize neural networks, enhancing cognitive reserve.” To get the most benefit from mental activities, the experts say it is best to vary the type of games we play. Shifting from games that rely on speed, rapid decision making or memory help strengthen and tap into m...
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Watch for Signs of Illness When Caring for a Person With Alzheimer’s Disease

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Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease can be a time-consuming job. As the disease is progressive and symptoms worsen over time, the person’s needs also evolve. Things they used to do for themselves may no longer be possible or safe. Moreover, experts say like many older adults, a person with Alzheimer’s is likely to experience health changes over time. Therefore, it is important he/she continues to get routine checkups with their primary care physician as well as with any specialists they may be seeing. The National Institute on Aging (NIH) says some of the problems caregivers should look for are signs of fever, or sickness like the flu or pneumonia. They say a fever could be signs of infection, dehydration caused by lack of fluids, heat stroke or even constipation. When taking a person’s temperature, use a digital thermometer rather than a glass one as the person might bite down on the glass and break it. Let their doctor know right away if they do have a fever. To help prevent...
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MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Offers Companion Living

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MorningStar at Mountain Shadows recognizes that for some, senior living can seem out of reach for them financially , which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care. Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community . The presence of a roommate can encourage more confi...
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Health Screening Tests for Women

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Medical professionals stress the importance of women getting the proper screenings to protect their health and discover problems early when they may be more treatable. Screenings are designed for otherwise healthy individuals and recommendations change as we age. An article in the publication US News & World Report , states, “Your doctor can help you tailor the recommendations based on your goals of care, personal and family health history, age and life expectancy.” This post discusses 4 of the 14 screenings in the article. Breast cancer screening with a mammogram is recommended annually for women from age 40-50, every two years for those 50 to 74 and on a case-by-case basis after that. Doctors say mammograms are key to the prevention as well as early detection of breast cancer, when it is most easily treated. Talk to your doctor about testing options if you are under the age of 40 and have a mother or sister who had breast cancer at a young age or have a high-risk genetic marke...
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How Senior Living Communities Keep Residents Active and Engaged

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Retirement can be a lonely experience for some seniors, especially those struggling with health concerns or mobility. We are used to making friends through work, school, outside hobbies, and faith-based activities. However, various factors impede the ability for seniors to make friends as easily as they once had. Whatever the case may be, finding friends may become a little harder without some extra help. Active senior living communities provide a valuable solution for seniors looking to make new friendships . Senior living that encourages social outings and experiences helps seniors feel relaxed and supported while making new friends and establishing themselves in groups and hobbies. MorningStar Senior Living offers one of the most active senior living communities, with various clubs, amenities, and social events for seniors aged 55 and up to explore their passions and find fulfillment. Keep reading to see how our senior living community keeps residents active and engaged: Group Outin...
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How Assisted Living Supports Independence with Peace of Mind

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Many seniors fear their lack of independence when they think about aging and relocating to senior living. While this is a very serious concern and deserves to be treated with compassion, it is important to note that modern senior living communities have greatly evolved from what we might consider nursing homes or senior hospital facilities. Thanks to the dedication and research of many passionate senior care providers , senior living communities are more supportive than ever before. Assisted living communities provide support to seniors that enhances both independence while giving families a peace of mind. Personalized Care Enhances Autonomy Personalized care is developed for each individual at MorningStar based on their specific needs, preferences, health concerns, medications, abilities, and passions. Personalized care is individualized and custom-made, this ensures that each resident is receiving the correct level of care specific to them. By providing individualized care, seniors e...
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