MorningStar

Intergenerational programs bring together seniors and younger generations, such as children or teenagers, to engage in activities and build relationships. These programs can involve storytelling, crafts, gardening, or shared hobbies. Intergenerational interactions provide seniors with a sense of purpose, foster social connections, and offer opportunities for meaningful engagement. At MorningStar of Littleton, we encourage this holistic memory care approach for seniors in Alzheimer’s care by welcoming senior’s family members regularly into our community in order to foster open communication that encourages memory building and recognition. Storytelling and reading programs bring generations together in memory care facilities. These programs bring together seniors and children or teenagers for storytelling sessions or reading activities. Seniors can share their life experiences, personal stories, or favorite books with younger participants. This promotes social interaction, encourages co...

The risk of hip fractures becomes a growing concern for seniors and their loved ones. It’s hard to trust that your parents or loved one will be alright on their own at home or participating in routine chores or errands at an older age. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek in Des Moines, Iowa, we take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents with comprehensive safety measures implemented at MorningStar. From well-designed living spaces to personalized care plans and engaging physical activities, we are committed to preventing hip fractures and other injuries while creating a secure and active environment for our residents. Falls are a common concern among family members who care for a senior parent or loved one. These accidents can have significant consequences on seniors’ health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injuries and hospitalizations among older adults. MorningStar prioritiz...

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk of getting shingles sometime in your life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk in...

Brain fitness programs are popular Alzheimer’s care therapy in senior living communities. These memory care activities focus on cognitive exercises and puzzles designed to maintain and improve cognitive abilities. These activities may include memory games, puzzles, trivia, and computer-based brain training exercises. Brain fitness programs promote mental agility, enhance memory function, and provide a fun and challenging way to engage seniors. Senior living communities like MorningStar of Littleton incorporate these brain fitness programs for seniors struggling with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diagnosis.  Brain fitness therapy, also sometimes known as cognitive training, has shown promising benefits for seniors with Alzheimer's disease. This therapy offers a proactive approach to managing Alzheimer's disease by targeting cognitive abilities and providing a range of stimulating activities. It not only enhances cognitive function but also contributes to improved everyday fu...

As our loved ones age, their needs and desires may change, but the love and companionship they share with partners remain steadfast. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek in Des Moines, Iowa, we recognize the importance of preserving and nurturing the bond between couples in their senior years. That's why we offer the most exceptional senior living des moines has to offer for seniors with living options designed to cater to the unique needs of couples in senior living and assisted living arrangements. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we provide couples with spacious and comfortable shared living accommodations. We offer 56 assisted living suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations with some as large as 820 square feet. Our thoughtfully designed apartments are carefully crafted to offer the perfect blend of privacy and togetherness. Suites are equipped with a kitchenette with a fridge; in-suite washer/dryer, full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms; 24-hour emergency call systems; an...

Helping seniors downsize for assisted living is a sensitive and challenging process. Through the many years, our parents and loved ones have accumulated many special items that have sentimental value. If it is time to move into assisted living communities , you may be stressed and wondering how to downsize your loved one's many years of irreplaceable keepsakes. At MorningStar Senior Living in Jordan Creek, West Des Moines, Iowa, we understand the emotional and practical challenges involved in downsizing for seniors when moving to senior living or assisted living. When you and your family begin to consider assisted living , it's important to begin the downsizing conversation as early as possible with your parents or loved ones. Initiate this discussion with empathy and take the time to understand your loved one's concerns and preferences over what they want for their items. For this reason, MorningStar does offer 56 assisted living suites that we encourage seniors to fill wi...

Memory impairments pose significant challenges for seniors. Reminiscence therapy is a therapeutic approach that offers hope and respite for the difficulties that come with an Azheimer’s diagnosis. This powerful technique provides numerous benefits, especially for seniors facing memory difficulties. By tapping into the rich tapestry of their past experiences, reminiscence therapy helps individuals in Alzheimer’s care reconnect with cherished memories , stimulate cognitive functions, and enhance emotional well-being. Reminiscing about past events and experiences can help trigger memories that have felt stuck and stimulate recall in individuals with Alzheimer's. Even if recent memories are challenging to access, long-term memories from earlier stages of life may still be intact. Reminiscence therapy taps into these preserved memories, allowing individuals to connect with their personal history. At MorningStar of Littleton, our senior living community offers memory care for seniors wit...