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...