How to Help Seniors Stay Healthy During Flu Season
Flu season is upon us, and while it poses a risk for everyone, senior adults are especially vulnerable. As immunity naturally weakens, the flu can lead to severe complications in older individuals. Whether your loved ones are at home, in assisted living in Lakewood, enjoying the community of senior living in Lakewood, or are part of the compassionate environment of memory care in Lakewood, there are specific measures we can take to help protect them.
Here’s how you can help seniors stay healthy during the flu season.
Vaccination: The flu vaccine is the first line of defense. Ensure that seniors get their annual flu shot, which is often tailored to combat the strains expected to be most prevalent that year.
Good Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap for at least 20 seconds can prevent the spread of many germs. In community environments, this practice can significantly deter the flu.
Healthy Eating: Boosting the immune system through nutrition is vital. Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Drinking plenty of water keeps the body hydrated and helps flush out toxins.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity can boost the immune system. Even simple exercises like walking, gentle yoga, or tai chi can be beneficial. Many senior living communities offer group exercise sessions tailored to older adults.
Limit Exposure: During peak flu season, limit visits to crowded places. If there’s a known outbreak in the area, it might be wise to reschedule non-essential outings.
Sanitize Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces, especially in shared spaces. This is a practice often upheld in environments like memory care in Lakewood to ensure the safety of residents.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local health news. Knowing when and where outbreaks occur can help make informed decisions about outings and visits.
Adequate Rest: A well-rested body can fend off infections better. Ensure seniors have a comfortable sleeping environment and get 7-9 hours of sleep.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help keep the mucous membranes moist, lowering the chances of infections.
Educate Visitors: If you’re visiting loved ones, especially in places like assisted living in Lakewood, ensure you’re not feeling under the weather. Also, practicing good hygiene, like hand washing before and after visits, is essential.
Know the Symptoms: Early detection can lead to prompt treatment. Be aware of flu symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
Stay Updated on Other Vaccinations: Apart from the flu shot, seniors should also be current on other vaccines like pneumonia and shingles, as recommended by their healthcare provider.
By being proactive and adopting these measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of flu in seniors. Staying vigilant, practicing good hygiene, and fostering a healthy lifestyle are crucial to ensuring our seniors enjoy a flu-free season, no matter where they reside.
Helpful Tips for Cooking Safely with Seniors
The kitchen often serves as the heart of the home, a place filled with cherished memories, aromas of meals past, and the joy of communal cooking. As family members age, ensuring that the kitchen remains a safe space for them becomes crucial. Whether your loved ones are living independently, in assisted living in Lakewood, experiencing the comfort of senior living in Lakewood, or are part of the nurturing environment of memory care in Lakewood, these safety tips are essential for anyone assisting or cooking alongside seniors.
Organized Workspace: Ensure that all ingredients, utensils, and equipment are within easy reach for seniors. This minimizes the risk of them stretching or reaching out precariously for something.
Slip-Resistant Mats: Use slip-resistant mats in the kitchen area. This absorbs accidental spills and provides a firm footing for seniors.
Clear Lighting: Good lighting is essential, especially for those with diminishing eyesight. Ensure that countertops and stove areas are well-lit to prevent any mishaps.
Easy-to-use Utensils: Invest in utensils with ergonomic handles that are easier to grip. This is particularly beneficial for seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength.
Timer Alarms: These are essential, especially for seniors in memory care in Lakewood. A loud timer can remind them when food is ready, reducing the risk of burnt dishes or potential fires.
Automatic Shut-off Appliances: Opt for appliances that have an automatic shut-off feature. This provides an added layer of safety, especially if a senior forgets to turn off the stove.
Cook Together: Not only is this a bonding experience, but it also ensures that there’s someone around to oversee and ensure everything goes smoothly, a common practice in environments like assisted living in Lakewood.
Clearly Labeled Controls: For seniors, especially those living in Lakewood, clearly labeled and easy-to-read stove and oven controls can make a difference. It minimizes confusion and ensures correct usage.
Regular Safety Checks: Regularly inspect appliances for wear and tear. Also, ensure that smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are functional and within easy reach.
Stay Organized and Clutter-free: An organized kitchen reduces the risk of accidents. Ensure there are no trailing wires, and commonly used items are stored at waist level to avoid unnecessary bending or reaching.
Educate on Fire Safety: While many seniors are familiar with fire safety, a quick refresher never hurts. This can include what to do in case of a grease fire, the importance of not wearing loose clothing while cooking, and always having a fire blanket or extinguisher.
By incorporating these safety tips, seniors can enjoy the pleasures of cooking while ensuring their well-being. Cooking can be therapeutic, a trip down memory lane, and even a daily routine that provides a sense of purpose. It’s essential to keep this experience safe and enjoyable for our cherished elders, no matter where they reside.
Halloween Costume Ideas for Seniors
Halloween isn’t just for kids; it’s a celebration for all ages! As the air gets crisper and pumpkins begin to adorn doorsteps, everyone, including our spirited seniors, can partake in the excitement of dressing up. Whether you’re residing in assisted living in Lakewood, enjoying the vibrant community of senior living in Lakewood, or are a beloved part of memory care in Lakewood, these costume ideas are tailored to spark joy and ignite the festive spirit.
Classic Movie Stars: Think of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Ladies can channel their inner Marilyn Monroe or Audrey Hepburn, while gentlemen might fancy themselves as Humphrey Bogart or Cary Grant.
Decade Throwback: Dress up in attire from your favorite decade! Be it the roaring ’20s flapper dresses, the groovy ’60s, or even the rock-n-roll ’80s – the choices are endless and fun!
Literary Characters: From Sherlock Holmes to Miss Marple, dressing up as a beloved literary character is iconic and sparks conversations of favorite books.
Matching Outfits: For couples or groups in senior living in Lakewood, think of famous pairs or groups like Sonny and Cher, The Beatles, or even characters from shows like “I Love Lucy.”
Wise Wizards and Witches: Embrace the magical side of Halloween. A long robe, a pointed hat, and a staff or a wand make you the wisest wizard or witch in town.
Gardening Guru: Wear green, adorn yourself with faux flowers, and carry some gardening tools. It’s a simple yet delightful costume idea, especially for those with a green thumb.
Storybook Grandparents: Think Red Riding Hood’s grandma or the classic Old Mother Hubbard. These storybook characters come to life with a shawl or a bonnet and a prop or two.
Patriotic Seniors: Dress in red, white, and blue and celebrate Halloween with a touch of patriotism. This can be a simple and comfortable costume idea yet quite striking.
Nostalgic Professions: From vintage pilots, nurses, and firefighters to classic teachers with glasses and a pointer, these professions make for iconic costumes.
Crafty Costumes: For those in memory care in Lakewood, simple crafts can help create accessories like cat ears, butterfly wings, or even colorful hats. These can be paired with matching outfits for a complete look.
Favorite Board Game Character: Whether it’s the Monopoly Man with his iconic mustache and top hat or a character from Clue, embracing a board game theme can be nostalgic and fun.
Remember, the essence of Halloween lies in creativity, fun, and a touch of whimsy. These costume ideas can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences, comfort, and mobility levels. The goal is to have a fantastic time, share some laughs, and create new memories, no matter where you reside. Happy Halloween to all our spirited seniors in Lakewood!
Improve the Lives of Those With Dementia Using Music and Art
Multiple studies report on the benefits of using music and art to improve the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Experts explain they help encourage engagement and self-expression even in more advanced stages.
Professionals who work with Alzheimer’s patients say music seems to decrease agitation and improves behavioral problems common in the middle stages of the disease. Patients in later stages may even be able to sing a song they knew from childhood or tap a foot to the beat even after other forms of communication are difficult. Dancing or gently moving to a rhythm helps coordinate motor movements as well as allows the person to express emotions. Research shows “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.”
If you wish to use music to calm and soothe, choose peaceful, tranquil pieces. If you want to boost spirits and bring back happy memories, use livelier pieces. Experts say to turn off other distractions like a TV and close windows if there is outside noise. Music may be more enjoyable to the person if it is something they are familiar with from their earlier life.
Art can also be an outlet for self-expression and give a person with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose and accomplishment in creating their own work. Experts recommended avoiding any project that seems childlike and demeaning. Use safe, non-toxic materials, and if they need, take their hand and guide it on the paper to get them started. Moreover, remember there is no need for the person to finish.
Along with independent andassisted living, Hayward CA’s Morningstarcommunity provides suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe. Daily, purposeful activities use music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to find ways to connect with and nurture the individual whatever the extent of memory impairment. Please visit our website to learn more aboutspecialized memory care at MorningStar of Hayward.
MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest memory care,independent livingand assisted living Hayward, CA offers. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.
Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music
Lose Weight by Substituting Lower Calorie Foods
Experts say it isn’t just our imagination that losing weight gets harder the older we become but is most likely due to having less muscle mass, which burns more calories than fat. To help, they offer easy tips on how to painlessly replace calorie-laden foods with healthier, lower-calorie substitutes. In addition to the fact that nutrient-rich foods appear to help individuals be successful in their quest to lose weight, meals do not necessarily have to be smaller than your average intake.
Dietitians suggest an easy food swap is to drink water flavored with lemon slices or sparkling water rather than sugary sodas. One study found that by replacing refined grains with whole grains it “improved blood cholesterol levels and decreased percent of body fat in postmenopausal women.” Replacing sugary granola with heart-healthy oatmeal can also help control your weight. Not only is oatmeal a good source of soluble fiber known to reduce cholesterol but it contains magnesium and potassium known to promote healthy blood pressure. Also dietitians suggest trying sprouted grain breads, which many find tastier and healthier than even whole-grain breads.
Other ways to get healthier and lose weight is to include more plant-based foods into your diet. Make a pledge to have a couple of meatless dinners each week and get your protein from bean burgers, lentils, and quinoa instead of hamburgers and steaks. To get more veggies into your diet, top your bean burger with spinach or lettuce, tomato slices and mushrooms instead of cheese. Rather than pasta, use squash or zucchini noodles.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo is a vibrant senior living community offering older adults a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. Amenities include a fitness center, healthy meals served restaurant-style, enrichment activities, and more. Remarkable for our beautiful surroundings and luxury amenities, we are most proud of our dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding independent living, assisted living, or memory care at MorningStar.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Mission Viejo, CA.
Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/slideshows/11-healthy-food-swaps-to-lose-weight?slide=2
Autumn Activities : Embracing the Golden Moments in Lakewood, CO
The best time of year has arrived! Autumn in Lakewood, CO, unfolds in a burst of colors, bringing a crispness that stirs memories and evokes a sense of nostalgia. Whether our beloved seniors are in assisted living in Lakewood, enjoying senior living in Lakewood, or availing services from memory care in Lakewood, this season can be a time of rejuvenation, joy, and new experiences.
Here are some delightful autumn activities tailored for the senior living community to immerse themselves in the magic of this beautiful time of year.
Nature Walks: Senior living in Lakewood boasts scenic spots perfect for gentle strolls. The falling leaves and cool breeze can be therapeutic and enriching.
Craft Sessions: Autumn provides a myriad of crafting opportunities. From leaf prints to making wreaths, seniors can channel their creativity and even involve their families and friends in these projects.
Cooking and Baking: Seasonal recipes can bring warmth to chilly days. Pumpkin pies, apple crisps, or even roasted chestnuts can be delightful treats to make and share.
Memory Sharing Sessions: For those in memory care in Lakewood, this season can be an excellent time to share old stories. Bring out those photo albums, sip hot cocoa, and let the memories flow.
Festive Decorations: Engage in festive preparations for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Carving pumpkins, making turkey crafts, or setting up autumn-themed table centers can be fun and engaging.
Music and Dance: Arrange for local musicians to perform autumn-themed music or even classics from the yesteryears.
Visiting Local Festivals: With the proper assistance, seniors can enjoy these local events, soaking in the festivities.
Book Clubs: With the days getting shorter, it’s an excellent time to catch up on reading. Starting a friendly book club within the assisted living in Lakewood or senior living in Lakewood communities can be a perfect way for residents to bond.
Outdoor Games: Games like horseshoes, bocce ball, or even simple bean bag toss can be enjoyed in the open air, ensuring fun and mild exercise combined with the fabulous autumn weather.
Picnics: Arrange picnics in local parks. The colorful backdrop and fresh air can be invigorating. Pack warm drinks, sandwiches, and seasonal fruits for a delightful outing.
For all our seniors in Lakewood, CO, autumn can be a season of warmth, connection, and new memories. Embrace the season and make the most of the golden moments it offers.
MorningStar of Hayward’s Five-Star Dining Experience
MorningStar of Hayward is a vibrant 55+ community ideally located in the East Bay region and offers scenic views in every direction including the Bay, San Francisco skyline and Hayward Hills. We are one of seven MorningStar communities either operating or under construction in California.
As a MorningStar of Hayward resident, you will be treated to a whole host of resort-style amenities and services including a five-star dining experience. All residents are treated to meals prepared under the supervision of our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room. We understand that food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is one of the great joys of living. We also know food always tastes better and is enjoyed more when shared in community and breaking bread together helps to bond us as a family and as friends.
Our meals are prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients from the highest quality local producers. MorningStar’s Chef looks forward to feedback from residents and is open to suggestions. At each meal, residents will have choices to self-manage their dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat dishes.
We also believe in BrainWise foods and use ingredients known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Thus, as the MorningStar’s culinary team strives to create meals that delight the eye and palate, they also leverage the phenomenal benefits of superfoods such as Omega 3 fats, acai berries, dark chocolate and dark greens.
Our community offers 193 stylish suites for either independent living or assisted living for those that need help with the activities of daily living. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 35 suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. While residents’ apartments are their own private nest, our community also has inviting common areas both inside and out that are designed to encourage residents to sit and relax with friends. Please contact us for more information about luxury senior living in Hayward, CA.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care, assisted living and independent living Hayward, CA offers.
Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community
For anyone considering a move to assisted living, choosing the right community is a big decision as getting it wrong may mean another move within a couple of months. To help, senior living experts say the first thing to do is to think about the level of care you or a loved one needs to improve quality of life.
After you have a pretty good idea of what your needs are, now factor in things like location and affordability. If mom or dad needs help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) focus only on senior communities offering assisted living. If you want the home to be a convenient drive for easy visiting, concentrate on those communities. If mom or dad no longer drives, look for a community offering transportation for doctor appointments or errands; or if they plan to bring a car, does it offer parking? Does the home offer 24/7 care, medication management and access to licensed nurses?
Obviously, affordability is an important consideration, but senior living advocates warn don’t be initially shocked at the price. Rather think about all of the living costs such as property taxes, maintenance, utility bills and meals included in the home’s monthly fees. For a better understanding of mom or dad’s assets, it may be worth your while to consult an elder law attorney. They can explore various options such as eligibility for Veterans’ benefits, what your parent’s long-term care insurance may cover, and the advantages of leveraging real estate assets and life insurance, tax benefits and more.
Other things to consider include the physical characteristics of the assisted living community. Does it offer a floor plan that works for you? Do you want amenities such as a fitness center, hair salon, outdoor patio, restaurant-style dining, theater, Wi-Fi, etc.?
For trusted assisted living, Mission Viejo, CA area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Mission Viejo’s assisted living lets seniors comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, resort-style amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition, we offer independent living for the most active seniors as well as specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Visit our website today to inquire about pricing and availability.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care in Mission Viejo, CA.
Is Dementia the Same as Alzheimer’s Disease?
Many of us, especially seniors, have heard or known someone with Alzheimer’s disease and have an idea of the devastation it causes. While there are other types of diseases categorized as dementia, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. You should know dementia is not actually a specific disease but refers to a decline in a person’s mental ability to such a degree it interferes with their daily life.
It is also important to understand dementia is not a normal condition of aging but rather caused by damage to brain cells that affect a person’s memory, reasoning and other cognitive skills including an ability to communicate. There are several types of clinical dementia including: Alzheimer’s disease; vascular dementia; dementia with Lewy Body; and frontotemporal dementia. Mixed dementia is the term used when a person has both Alzheimer’s and another form of dementia, which is causing their mental decline.
The Alzheimer’s Association says the “most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.” As the disease progresses, the person is robbed of many other abilities such as speaking, swallowing and walking.
To help get the proper diagnosis and rule out other causes that may be treatable such as side effects from a medication, it is important to see your doctor. If warranted, they may have you see a specialist that can do further testing.
Along with independent and assisted living, MorningStar of Mission Viejo offers care to those with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. We are a team of compassionate professionals who feel privileged to serve our most tender residents. We also consider supporting family members as part of our job and recognize that a diagnosis of dementia is traumatizing for all involved. Contact us or visit our website for availability, pricing information and to schedule a tour.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Mission Viejo, CA.
Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s
Scrapbooking With Your Favorite Senior
If an elderly parent or another loved one is in a senior living community and has limited mobility, you may feel it is difficult to think of things to talk about or to do when you visit. Scrapbooking is an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Also, it can be more than just a means to pass the time and preserve memories for seniors but can be beneficial to them as well.
By organizing an activity such as scrapbooking, it can help to keep everyone engaged as well as inspire your loved one to start sharing stories about the “good old days.” As you start documenting their life story, it will likely bring back memories they may have forgotten and/or the rest of the family has never heard. Along with exercising the brain with recollections of the past, scrapbooking can boost self-esteem, improve one’s dexterity and increase socialization by introducing new topics of conversation.
To get started, visit your local craft store or shop on the Internet for scrapbooking supplies that will help you create a book that is uniquely your parent’s. Your next step is to help gather and organize the photos and materials in chronological order that will go into the scrapbook.
If the project seems too overwhelming for your parents, have them pick a theme such as family vacations or weddings through the years, or do one that focuses on their childhood and early years. Before you start to glue things in, take the time to layout the photos and mementos for each page; and most importantly, encourage and enjoy the stories and memories shared by your loved one.
If you are looking for independent or assisted living in Hayward, CA, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Hayward. Our community is designed to enhance the lives of our residents and provide a home where seniors can safely and comfortably age in place. Along with stylish suites and inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
How the Foods You Eat May Impact Your Sleep
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Good sleep quality is also important. Signs of poor quality sleep include not feeling rested even after getting enough sleep, repeatedly waking up during the night, and experiencing symptoms of sleep disorders such as insomnia, restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea. Experts say a good night’s sleep enhances memory, improves mood and regulates appetite.
Experts offer some tips to help individuals achieve better sleep by the choice of foods consumed as well as what food or drink to avoid. Foods interfering with sleep include caffeine and large meals as well as alcohol consumed too close to bedtime. As a deficiency of folate is linked to insomnia, a study from the Taipei Medical University found eating two kiwis, which are high in B vitamin folate and vitamins C and E, an hour before bed helped participants fall asleep faster, sleep longer and more efficiently.
Another food to help induce sleep is tart cherries. They contain natural melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles, and a phytonutrient linked to promoting better sleep. Additionally, nuts like almonds and walnuts contain melatonin; and pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is converted to melatonin. Passionflower tea, chamomile tea and warm milk can also help promote sleep. Other sleep-inducing foods include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, which are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, and help regulate sleep, mood and other functions.
MorningStar Senior Living of Mission Viejo strives to provide residents with all the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years. Residents enjoy chef-inspired meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious and include BrainWise super foods. These are foods known to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens. For trusted independent living, assisted living or memory care in Mission Viejo, CA, please contact us or visit our website.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the area’s finest independent living, assisted living and memory care. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.
Getting Enough Sleep Impacts Many Aspect of Our Lives
The American Heart Association offers a checklist of eight key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health. The Life’s Essential 8 is designed to highlight things we can do to lower our risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems.
In 2022, the Association added sleep duration to the list as a component of heart health. They say the amount and quality of sleep can influence a person’s eating habits, mood, memory, internal organs and more.
One advantage to getting enough sleep is being more productive. After spending years working long hours to the detriment of a good night’s sleep, Ariana Huffington now says, “The irony is that a lot of people forgo sleep in the name of productivity. But in fact our productivity is reduced substantially when we’re sleep deprived.”
Professor of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Charles Czeisler, explains being sleep deprived can impair your abilities and is like being drunk. Poor sleep habits can cause you to eat more to feel more energetic, and may increase your risk for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
It is recommended adults get a solid 7 to 9 hours of sleep each day and a sleep routine will help you achieve this goal. Start by going to bed each night around the same time so you can wake up refreshed at the same time each morning. If possible, open your curtains to let in the morning sunshine or turn on the bedroom lights. Research still shows breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should consist of healthy foods.
Another thing to get your day off right is to take a few minutes each morning doing something like practicing mindfulness or yoga. The other Life’s Essential 8 include maintaining a healthy diet, fitness, quitting nicotine, losing weight, and watching your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk for diabetes.
If you are looking for senior housing, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Hayward. We offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home offers assisted living, memory care and independent living in Hayward, CA with a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need. Please see our website for more information about trusted senior living at MorningStar.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care, assisted living and independent living Hayward, CA has to offer.
Source:
heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/sleep/how-to-sleep-better-with-tech-tweaks
Memory Care at MorningStar of Hayward
Along with independent and assisted living, Hayward, CA’s MorningStar community offers memory care suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our care services are extensive, and we provide a wide range of amenities, wellness programs and activities.
MorningStar of Hayward’s memory care revolves around comforting and caring for our most tender residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We start with a physical space designed to enhance residents’ quality of life with safe, inviting common areas encouraging independence. Residents stay active with a gentle flow of activities including art, dance, physical exercise, special events, and scheduled outings.
Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we meet with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of specially prepared foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience.
As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.” Our program provides us with an insightful and intentional way to support the memory-impaired and their families. All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents. It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as holistic solutions to challenging behaviors. Additionally, our devoted team feels privileged to serve, and understands every person deserves to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.
MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 and has 40+ communities in eleven states either in operation or under construction. Please visit our website for more information about individualized, compassionate memory care in Hayward, CA.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care, independent living and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Luxury Senior Living at MorningStar of Mission Viejo
MorningStar of Mission Viejo, a vibrant 55+ community, has a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays. We want prospective residents and their families to know we are here to answer all their questions, and once the decision is made to join our community, we provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition.
Our apartments for independent living offer seniors a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. It also provides peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself needing help with daily personal care; we can make sure you get it.
Moreover, contrary to what many think about assisted living, it is designed to help seniors maintain their sense of independence. By providing assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), residents can focus on living their life to the fullest. Upon joining our community, residents have an Individualized Care Plan created for them after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their family.
Finally, we proudly provide comprehensive memory care families trust with suites dedicated to caring for our most tender residents. To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained in the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care. Our community is equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. In fact, every aspect of our memory care is designed around the needs of each resident from our physical environment, activities and programs, meals, and more.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo’s first-class amenities start with Executive Chef inspired meals which are served all day in our beautiful full-service dining room. We also have a theater, art studio, fitness center, and scheduled transportation. In addition, we have a billiards room, salon and multiple dining venues. Amidst our beautiful grounds we have a swimming pool and relaxing courtyards. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Mission Viejo, CA.
Senior-Friendly Creative Outlets
As a senior, it is absolutely vital to your quality of life to stay mentally active, creative, and have hobbies and activities you can participate in whenever you want to. Having and fostering the growth of all of these things can help you improve your quality of life, mental health, and even your physical health. However, if you are a senior living in Lakewood and you have no creative outlets, keep reading for some inspiration on ways you can start to introduce more creativity into your life.
Take a Variety of Classes
If you are curious about anything at all, try taking a class for it! This can be especially amazing for seniors who spent a lot of their time working, rather than having the freedom to pursue their passions. These classes do not necessarily need to be “creative,” per se, but they should be about things that interest you and get your mind moving. If learning new things about history is exciting for you, then a historical class could be a great way to get your creative juices flowing, and your mind focused on something new and engaging.
Try Writing and/or Drawing
Writing and/or drawing are amazing ways to get emotions and creativity down on some kind of paper or canvas—or even in a digital way. Try writing/typing down whatever goes through your mind, whether it be fictional stories, music/songs, personal experiences, jokes, comments, etc. If you are more into blending shapes and colors, try doing some doodles, or even an involved piece of art. If you enjoy doing any of these things, keep going and see how much better you can become! Any way of getting your creativity flowing through writing or drawing, can be a wonderful way to engage with more parts of your brain, and get in touch with undiscovered parts of your inner self.
Crafty VS Practical
Another way to gauge the way your creativity flows is to try hobbies that are crafty vs hobbies that are practical. For example, cooking and sewing/crocheting/knitting can be considered practical hobbies, since they can provide meals and cloth items. Other creative pursuits that are more on the crafty side could include flower arranging, coloring/painting, origami, macrame, and more! Just give anything that interests you a try, and see what brings you the most joy.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
How to Improve Walking Steadiness as a Senior
As we age, our bodies become less and less resistant to long-term damage. When we are young, breaking a bone is usually resolved within several weeks in a cast, without many complications or lingering issues. However, falling and breaking a bone as an elderly person can have far more serious consequences. It takes longer to heal, and can also lead to the development of chronic pain. One way to prevent this as a senior is to safely practice exercises that improve and maintain your balance and walking steadiness. This will help you be better able to catch yourself if you do stumble; and give you more strength to cope with any injuries if you do fall. Keep reading to learn more about how to improve your walking steadiness as a senior in assisted living in Lakewood.
NOTE: You can try these exercises barefoot or with sneakers, just be sure you always have someone to spot you when doing any kind of exercise.
Walk The Invisible Tightrope
Your spotter should stay right behind or beside you for this exercise.
Stand with your feet together and your arms out to your sides in a “T” shape.
Lift your right foot and place it down again directly in front of your left foot, so that they are in a straight line—as if you were on a tightrope.
Hold for 5-10 seconds.
Repeat steps 3 and 4, starting with your left foot this time.
Get as far as you can, and be sure to keep your posture in mind—head up, shoulders back, and back as straight as you can manage.
Leg Raises All Around
Your spotter should stay nearby for this exercise, and you will also be needing a sturdy chair or table you can place your hands on without needing to bend down.
Start by facing the back of the chair or table (with good posture) and place your hands on it for support.
Lift your right leg straight back behind as far as you can comfortably go. Try not to bend your knees at all.
Hold for 5-10 seconds.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 with your left leg.
Alternate 3-5 times per leg.
Next, you can repeat the same set in different ways by lifting your legs straight to the sides, as well as straight out in front of you. Remember to keep your posture in mind! (For side leg raises, it may be easier to start out with your support on the opposite side as the leg you are lifting.)
Get Up, Sit Down
Your spotter should remain in front of you for this exercise, and you may need to hold their hands for support. You will also need a sturdy chair that you can easily get in and out of.
Start in a seated position in the chair.
Hold for 5-10 seconds.
Using as much of your core, glute, and leg strength as you can, stand up out of the chair.
Hold for 5-10 seconds.
Sit back down, engaging as many muscles as you can, so you are not relying solely on arm strength.
Repeat 5-10 times.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Yoga is Good for Your Body and Your Brain
While practitioners have known for centuries the calmness and peace yoga brings into their lives, science has finally caught up with real evidence of its benefits to our brains. Studies show yoga elevates levels of the brain chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GAGA), which helps regulate nerve activity and is associated with better mood and decreased anxiety.
The Harvard Medical School journal writes, “Yoga strengthens parts of the brain that play a key role in memory, attention, awareness, thought, and language. Think of it as weightlifting for the brain.” Their evidence comes from several studies that used MRI and other brain imaging technology. Researchers found participants who practiced yoga regularly had a thicker cerebral cortex, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory, than participants who did not practice yoga.
This could be significant because as people age, this is one of the areas in the brain that typically shrinks. As the older yoga practitioners had less shrinkage than non-practitioners, researchers say it suggests yoga can “counteract age-related declines in memory and other cognitive skills.”
Other benefits of yoga include helping individuals lose weight, sleep better, lower blood pressure and lower blood sugar levels to improve diabetes. It also helps people gain flexibility and muscle strength around arthritic joints and reduces the pain associated with the condition.
At MorningStar of Boise, our vibrant 55+ community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents. We are committed to providing the best retirement home in Boise, which includes exemplary service to our residents to ensure their utmost comfort, wellbeing and safety. For more information, please contact us or visit our website. Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our community as well as our company’s history, vision, and mission.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest retirement home Boise, ID offers.
Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/intermediate-yoga
Health Benefits of Green Tea
As a senior, it can be a struggle to find ways to hydrate that are enjoyable and easy. However, with green tea, not only are you getting a lot of water content, but you are also getting all the benefits that this kind of tea can provide. So if you are a senior living in Lakewood, keep reading for more valuable information about all the amazing health benefits of green tea.
Green Tea Wakes up Your Brain
The naturally occurring caffeine content of green tea can be a great way to help promote alertness. This can help your brain support the production of dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are used to help balance things like mood, memory, reflexes, alertness, and more! Plus, norepinephrine is also a hormone, which can work twice as well for helping regulate your mental capacities. So next time you are feeling a bit tired, slow, and/or run down, the caffeine from green tea could be a great way to get out of a funk.
Green Tea is Full of Antioxidants
Free radicals are toxins that can build up in our bodies for all kinds of reasons. They can come from the air we breathe, food we eat, products we use, and even certain medications. However, by exercising regularly, hydrating, and eating healthy foods high in antioxidants, you can reduce and even get rid of the free radicals in your system. This is where green tea can come in especially handy. The antioxidants in green tea can help your body get a detox from free radicals that may be building up.
Green Tea Supports Oral Health
Another great benefit of green tea is that it contains substances that can help support oral health. These substances are called catechins; and they help promote bone health, as well as being highly antibacterial. These can help you stay on top of your oral health, and may help you prevent a lot of tooth decay. This can be a valuable tool to combat the effects age can have on dental health. As we get older, our teeth can start to decay and loosen very quickly. However, with a healthy oral health routine, and a daily cup of green tea, you can take advantage of all the benefits that will help keep your oral health at its peak.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Best Natural Pain Relief for Seniors
Unfortunately, as we age, our bodies also age and can no longer work as efficiently and effectively as they used to. Sometimes, this can lead to certain conditions that cause chronic pain. This pain can be a huge detriment to your overall quality of life, and can also contribute to mental health issues like depression. However, if you are looking for natural ways to manage pain as an elderly person, then keep reading for more information on the best natural pain relief options available for any senior in assisted living in Lakewood.
Hot and Cold Therapy
A hot water bottle or heating pad can be a great way to soothe deep aches from conditions that cause joint pain. Heat can promote increased blood flow and loosening of muscles and other tightened areas that are causing pain.
Alternatively, a skin-safe cold pack can help with painful, swelling pain. If you have painful areas that become swollen, cold therapy can help minimize that swelling and inflammation.
Always keep in mind that hot and cold therapy needs to be done properly, using temperatures that are not extreme so you can avoid being burned by something too hot or too cold on your skin.
Ginger, Turmeric, and Curcumin
Ginger, turmeric, and curcumin have all been used in medicine for pain management for centuries. Always remember that natural medicine is original medicine, and can be more effective than you may think. These plants are well known for their pain relieving properties, and are powerful anti-inflammatories. Ginger and turmeric are also able to prevent inflammation as well as reduce it, and can also help fight infections with antibacterial properties. Keep in mind that if you do decide to take supplements, always clear it with your primary care provider to prevent any negative interactions with other medications and/or conditions. Also, when taking turmeric, make sure it also contains curcumin, as this helps to unlock more of the valuable benefits of turmeric.
Massage with Oils and Balms
Getting a professional massage is a fantastic way to manage chronic pain in a non-invasive way. In addition to the actual massage itself, the oils and balms used can also have targeted benefits for your specific needs and conditions. For example, if you use a menthol-based balm, it will have a cooling effect that can be very soothing. Another great base for an oil and/or balm is capsaicin. This is the substance that gives peppers their spice, and can give a warming effect where it is needed most.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Are Hot or Cold Showers Best for Seniors?
Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care.
Assisted living is for seniors who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into a community which offers assisted living knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future.
Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Boise have an emergency call system in each suite, you can rest easy knowing help is just minutes away. Another perk of MorningStar is we offer scheduled transportation so you will never have to worry about getting to your doctor appointments and other important errands.
Moreover, while MorningStar’s suites vary in size and number of bedrooms, all our suites are smartly designed to make the most of the space they offer with high ceilings, lots of natural light, and kitchenette with fridge and microwave. In addition, residents often tell us what a relief it was to give up their large family homes that were hard to keep clean as well as all of the maintenance required. Residents also enjoy weekly housekeeping and delicious meals they no longer need to cook.
MorningStar offers the kind of retirement home Boise area families have come to count on. Along with assisted living, we provide independent living, respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest retirement home Boise, ID offers.