How Assisted Living Can Prolong a Senior’s Life

Seniors who struggle with everyday activities and health concerns can be more predisposed to stress, anxiety, chronic illnesses, and overall unhappiness. All that added stress can impact a senior’s lifespan, too. If you notice an elderly loved one struggling to feed themselves, complete chores, keep up with hygiene routines, or socialize, it may be time to consider options. Assisted Living options in Des Moines, Iowa can offer seniors an enhanced life experience with access to support with daily activities to keep them safe and healthy. 

How Living Alone Can Impact Your Loved One

Living alone is not an inherent problem for most seniors. Many can maintain a routine, prepare their own meals, manage their transportation methods, and stay up-to-date with events and relationships without needing someone to check in or drop by. This isn’t the case with every senior, though. 

For many reasons, a senior may begin to struggle to care for themselves, especially if they live alone or with a less observant roommate. Health conditions, memory loss, or general aging can make seniors more predisposed to struggling with caring for themselves. 

How to Know It’s Time for Assisted Living

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell when it’s time to consider options for your loved one. Assisted Living is designed for seniors who do not need 24/7 supervision or hospitalization, but rather for seniors who need a little extra assistance with day-to-day activities, like planning meals, managing medications, and keeping up with chores and hygiene. 

If you’re looking for Assisted Living in Des Moines, Iowa, MorningStar at Jordan Creek prides itself on being the ideal senior community because of their commitment to overall health and wellness. By providing exceptional care, families feel assured that their loved ones can begin to experience a full life, complete with a lively social life, attentive staff, and chef-prepared meals. 

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent living in Des Moines, IA.

The Importance of Social and Active Assisted Living

Staying social and active can be more difficult as we age. Senior health, mobility, abilities and accessibility to events can impact how they interact in the world and maintain friendships. Social interaction is vital for everyone’s well-being, especially seniors. Seniors who live alone or in secluded living arrangements are more susceptible to social isolation which can lead to physical and mental health concerns.

This is why seniors should be aware of the best social opportunities in senior living Des Moines has to offer. Along with helping you navigate all the changes that come with growing older, MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines focuses on your social well-being to provide mental and physical health benefits.

What does social senior living look like?

Depending on the senior living community, social senior living involves a lot of active planning and consideration. Social senior living communities focus on creating a home that encourages social interaction, engagement and a sense of community for seniors. This type of senior living is designed to combat feelings of isolation and promote overall well-being and excitement. Here’s some of what you can expect to find in social senior living:

• Community Activities

• Fun Common Areas

• Planned Social Events

• Holiday Parties

• Communal Dining Options

• Involved Staff and Management 

Above all, you will notice happier, healthier residents in a social assisted living community. Even if your loved one struggles with completing daily tasks by themselves. 

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

The Health Benefits of Meditation for Seniors

As we age, our mental health becomes increasingly important. Many seniors experience cognitive decline, memory loss, and other age-related conditions that can impact their quality of life. One way to support mental health in seniors is through meditation. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we believe that supporting seniors' mental health in our assisted living community is essential to their overall well-being. That's why we prioritize resources that can help seniors incorporate mental health activities like meditation into their daily lives. Whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for years, our community, the best designed community for assisted living Des Moines has to support your mental health and well-being.

Meditation is a mental practice that involves focusing the mind on a specific object or thought while focusing on breathing. It has been practiced for centuries in many cultures and is known to provide a wide range of benefits for mental health. For seniors, incorporating meditation in assisted living communities can be especially beneficial for reducing stress, improving sleep, and managing chronic pain.

Stress is a major contributor to age-related conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline. Meditation can reduce stress levels and promote calmness and relaxation. Regular meditative practices help to lower blood pressure and increase cognitive function. At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we recognize the importance of supporting seniors' mental health. We offer a range of mindfulness-based programs for our residents inassisted living, like meditation, which help seniors develop greater awareness and presence in the moment. These programs can be especially helpful for managing stress and anxiety for those in senior living.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moinesprovides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Don't hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IO.

Long Term Care Insurance can Help You Pay for Alzheimer’s Care

Long-term care insurance is designed to cover the cost of care for individuals who require assistance with daily living tasks, such as those with Alzheimer's disease. Long-term care insurance policies vary, but most cover the cost of care in a variety of settings, including assisted living communities like MorningStar of Littleton in Colorado. If your parent or loved one is dealing with memory loss and in need of assisted living, continue reading to find out how long-term care insurance can help families pay for the best Alzheimer's care Littleton CO has to offer seniors. 

If you aren’t familiar with long-term care insurance for seniors, long-term care insurance is a type of insurance that helps individuals cover the cost of long-term care services in the event they require assistance with daily living tasks. These services may include assistance with bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as medical care and rehabilitation, which is often necessary care for seniors in need of empathetic Alzheimer’s care. Long-term care insurance policies are designed to help individuals pay for these services, which can be very expensive, without depleting their personal savings or assets.

Long-term care insurance can provide several benefits for families who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Some of the benefits of long-term care insurance include financial security, flexibility, and a peace of mind for families. Long-term care insurance policies are flexible for seniors in assisted living and are always tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual at MorningStar of Littleton. Families can choose the level of care they need, and the policy will cover the cost of care up to the policy limits. Knowing that Alzheimer's care at MorningStar is covered by long-term care insurance provides families with peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the memory care they need as well as being in one of the most comfortable and safe assisted living communities Colorado has to offer in Littleton.

To learn more about MorningStar’s payment plans and Alzheimer’s care in Littleton, CO, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Keep Your Loved One Safe at MorningStar Assisted Living

As our loved ones age, it is important to consider the best options for their care and safety. We know you want to offer your parents or loved one the very best senior care possible, but sometimes our lives become too busy to fully devote the amount of time or energy our parents require. If you’re looking for the finest assisted living options for your parent or loved one, MorningStar Senior Living at Jordan Creek is a premier assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and services to help seniors enjoy a carefree retirement while also ensuring their safety and well-being.

One of the main benefits of choosing MorningStar Senior Living at Jordan Creek is the carefree retirement lifestyle it offers. Seniors enjoy a range of activities and amenities, including restaurant-style dining, fitness classes, art classes, and movie nights. These activities provide a sense of community and socialization, which is important for mental and emotional well-being. Additionally, our staff takes care of all maintenance, housekeeping, and transportation needs so that our residents can focus on enjoying their retirement without the worry of chores or errands.

Safety regulations are in place at MorningStar to ensure the well-being of our residents in assisted living. Our community is equipped with 24-hour security and emergency response systems to ensure that residents are safe and secure at all times. Additionally, our staff and team members are trained to handle medical emergencies, so seniors can feel confident that they will receive prompt and professional medical attention if needed.

Our Assisted Living offers access to a wide range of healthcare services to ensure that seniors receive the care they need. These services include medication management, physical therapy, and assistance with daily living tasks, such as bathing and dressing. The staff is trained to provide personalized care to each resident, ensuring that their unique needs are met.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Don't hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IO.

This Community Could be the Perfect Home for Your Parent in Need of Memory Care

An Alzheimer's or dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and confusing for seniors and their families. If you are a child of a senior struggling with memory loss and in need of senior memory care in Colorado, you may be wondering what communities align with your values and can offer you and your parents a dependable memory care community. At MorningStar of Littleton, we believe that family involvement is a critical component of memory care for seniors living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Our approach to care is based on building relationships with our residents and their families, which allows us to provide personalized, compassionate care.

At MorningStar of Littleton, we value the relationships we build with our residents and their families. We encourage open communication between our staff and the families of our residents to ensure that we are creating a healthy and happy environment for our seniors in memory care that are struggling with memory loss. With a memory loss diagnosis, we understand that it can be difficult to entrust the care of a loved one to someone else, which is why we are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with our residents' families while their parent or loved one is experiencing this new stage in life.

We understand that every senior is unique and has their own individual needs and preferences. That's why we take the time to get to know our residents and their families, so that we can provide personalized care that meets their specific needs. As part of your parent’s move-in process, our Wellness Director will assess their current health, and review their medical history to ascertain how we can best meet their needs. At that time, we will also learn your preferences as their previous caregiver, as well as normal routines, so as to develop a care plan customized to you, a plan that is regularly re-evaluated to coincide with their changing memory care needs.

Family involvement plays a critical role at MorningStar in order to provide quality memory care to our residents. We understand that the decision to entrust the care of a loved one to someone else can be difficult, which is why we are committed to building relationships with our residents and their families. Our goal is to provide compassionate, personalized care that supports the emotional and physical well-being of our residents and their families.

To learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Littleton, CO, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

MorningStar Assisted Living is Where Seniors Feel Valued and Respected Every Day

For many seniors, the idea of leaving their homes and moving into an assisted living community can be daunting. If you are a senior looking for assisted living in Des Moines, you may be worrying about losing your independence, privacy, or even your sense of autonomy. However, for those considering an assisted living arrangement at MorningStar at Jordan Creek, there is good news. With a focus on individualized care, compassionate staff, and innovative programming, MorningStar offers compassionate assisted living with a commitment to ensuring all residents feel valued and respected. 

One key way MorningStar strives to make seniors feel valued and respected is by creating personalized care plans that are tailored to each resident's unique needs and preferences. When you decide MorningStar is the right assisted living home for you, we begin a comprehensive assessment to identify your physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. This assessment informs the development of an individualized care plan that outlines the services and support needed to help you thrive in your new home at MorningStar. 

Our staff at MorningStar Senior Living is highly trained in caring for seniors with a variety of needs in assisted living, including seniors with memory impairments and mobility issues. Our team members treat residents with the utmost respect and compassion, and they work tirelessly to ensure that each resident feels heard and understood. 

Every facet of our community is designed to provide carefree retirement years and includes an array of hospitality and senior care services, luxury amenities, and signature wellness programs and activities. Suites are equipped with a kitchenette with fridge; in-suite washer/dryer, full, handicapped-accessible bathrooms; 24-hour emergency call systems; and private heating and air conditioning. Onsite amenities include a bistro, salon, spa bath, courtyards, fitness center, sunroom, and more.

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Don't hesitate to look into MorningStar Senior Living for your parent or loved one and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors looking for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.

Learn More About MorningStar and Our Community in Colorado Springs

A highly respected senior housing company, MorningStar Senior Living has 40+ independent and assisted living communities in eleven states that are designed to be true homes for their residents.  MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Mountain Shadows is our property in Colorado Springs, CO

MorningStar was started in 2003 based on a unique mission statement, principles and philosophy.  As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains, his intention was to create senior living that was “defined by the human touch. I wanted to recreate my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.” 

Out of this vision, came a mission statement that still guides the way we deliver service to our residents:  Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.”  Even the name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contemplation of the bible and his commitment to relieve poverty around the world.  

However, while founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition; please know that we welcome and honor all faiths and worldviews in our communities, and are committed to meeting not only residents’ social, emotional, and physical needs but their spiritual ones.  In our pursuit of creating a loving home, honoring spiritual preferences is part of caring for the whole person. 

In addition, we recognize our mission is advanced by hiring team members who hold true to our core values of love, respect, honesty, fairness, goodness, and kindness.  They are the type of individuals who feel privileged to care for seniors and help us create the kind of culture we envision building – a Family for Life.   

Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years.    Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about exceptional assisted living and memory care at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. We look forward to hearing from you.

Discover the Safest Assisted Living Des Moines Can Offer at MorningStar Senior Living.

Families worry about their loved one's safety in assisted care facilities in America, particularly when it comes to mobility and fall prevention. You want to be sure that the facility is equipped with safety features and emergency response systems when it comes to the safety and health of your loved ones. Discover the best Assisted Living Des Moines has to offer at MorningStar Senior Living. Our comprehensive care and safety protocols provide peace of mind for families and the highest quality of life for our residents. MorningStar Senior Living Des Moines offers overall comprehensive safety within their Assisted Living communities. You can rest assured knowing that you’ve found the finest Senior Living community Des Moines can offer for your loved one.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a senior living community is safety. At MorningStar Assisted Living, safety is a top priority. The facility has implemented a range of safety protocols, from 24-hour emergency response systems to fall prevention measures and infection control protocols. Staff members are extensively trained to handle any emergency situation that may arise, so you can trust your loved one is in capable hands.

MorningStar takes the safety of our residents very seriously. Experience the safest Assisted Living Des Moines offers for seniors. MorningStar’s facility has all the necessary safety measures and features, such as up-to-date smoke detectors and fire sprinklers, which will detect and contain fires before they can cause harm. The secure entrance ensures that only authorized personnel are allowed into the building, and fall prevention measures, such as grab bars in bathrooms and slip-resistant flooring, can help reduce the risk of falls and injuries.​

Overall, MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and secure senior living community. With their commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible. Don't hesitate to look into MorningStar Assisted Living for your senior parent and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is in good hands.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a natural home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, Iowa.

MorningStar Memory Care Proudly Offers New Fall Prevention

Safety is the number one concern of families when their parent or loved one is residing in a senior living or assisted living community. As a caregiver, it’s easy to worry about the well-being of your family members, especially if they are struggling with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases. Feeling similar to you and your precautions, MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory care has partnered with the group, SafelyYou, a pioneering technology platform that helps prevent falls and injuries in seniors with memory loss, to better provide assurance to residents and their families.

SafelyYou use artificial intelligence, or AI, to detect and prevent falls in seniors with memory loss. This technology uses intelligent cameras that are placed in residents' rooms, upon your discretion of course, to monitor residents’ movements and can alert staff if a fall or other injury occurs. The AI technology also helps team members and caretakers identify potential fall risks before they happen, allowing them to take preventive measures to ensure the safety of their residents.

The partnership between MorningStar and SafelyYou is a game-changer in memory care. By using cutting-edge technology to prevent falls and injuries, MorningStar is able to provide a safer and more secure environment for our residents. The technology not only helps prevent falls but also provides valuable insights into residents' behaviors, which can help staff develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs.

In addition to our partnership with SafelyYou, MorningStar offers a range of other memory care services and amenities to support the unique needs of our residents. These include personalized care plans, specialized memory care programming, and compassionate staff who are trained in dementia care. MorningStar's memory care services are designed to provide a safe and engaging environment where residents can live their lives to the fullest.

Thanks to technology from SafelyYou, MorningStar’s fall management partner, families and our own clinical team can gain insight into fall detection and prevention for memory care residents. With the family’s permission, Artificial Intelligence-enabled video monitoring makes it possible to understand the cause of falls better.
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To learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision and what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Littleton. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Discover the Importance of Cleanliness and Maintenance in Assisted Living

When it comes to finding the perfect assisted living facility, one of the most important factors to consider is the level of cleanliness and maintenance. After all, you want to ensure that your loved one is living in a comfortable, hygienic, and safe Assisted Living home. At MorningStar Assisted Living Facility in Des Moines, Iowa, we take pride in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and upkeep through routine maintenance and housekeeping.

One of the first things you'll notice when you walk through the doors of MorningStar’s Assisted Living is the sparkling cleanliness of the facility. From the gleaming floors to the spotless common areas, we pay close attention to every detail to ensure that our residents are living in a clean and healthy environment. Our housekeeping staff is on duty daily to ensure that the facility is always in top condition, and we also have a dedicated team of maintenance professionals who are available around the clock to address any issues that may arise.

We also understand that for our residents, their rooms and private spaces are their homes in assisted living. We have a dedicated team of housekeeping staff that is active in keeping our residents' rooms and bathrooms clean, tidy and comfortable. We also encourage our residents to personalize their rooms with their own belongings to help make you feel more at home.

But it's not just about keeping the facility clean - it's also about ensuring that it is well-maintained. Our maintenance team is on call 24/7 to address any issues that may arise, whether it's a leaky faucet or a malfunctioning elevator. We also conduct regular inspections and maintenance on all of our equipment and systems to ensure that everything is in good working order.

At MorningStar Assisted Living Facility, we understand that cleanliness and maintenance are critical to providing our residents with a safe, comfortable and healthy living environment. That's why we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and upkeep, and we are committed to providing our residents with the best possible assisted living experience.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Thanksgiving Activities for Your Senior Living Community

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and there is no better time to start planning for some traditional Thanksgiving and Fall themed activities. Especially for seniors living in retirement communities or assisted living, feeling the holiday spirit is paramount for beating any bouts of loneliness or feelings of isolation. MorningStar Assisted Living and Senior Living Des Moines, IA, has a foundation built on community and inclusion of residents, especially during the holiday season. Here are some new thanksgiving activities that may help you or a senior in assisted living or senior living celebrate the new season. 

Every family has their own special recipe they make on Thanksgiving. A recipe competition is good, creative way to get involved in your senior living community. Everyone likes to think their sweet potato casserole is the best, but now it’s time to bring that to fruition. Not only is it fun for the whole community to try a special dish, but it’s great bringing an old recipe back from memory. It’s very nostalgic to cook a beloved meal and can hopefully bring back great holiday memories of times with family and friends. 

Using your hands to work on some holiday arts and crafts is always good. Work on a scrapbook page with some close friends in your senior living community. There’s no better way to entice feelings of gratitude than going through old photos and memorabilia to remember all the great things you’ve done and the beautiful people you love. Sharing these memories with your friends while creating a unique scrapbook page is a lovely way to spend a Fall afternoon. 

Love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community? MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes Des Moines, Iowa, takes care of the worry and stress of aging and allows you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, there’s a place for you at MorningStar Senior Living and Assisted Living Des Moines, Iowa. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in West Des Moines, Iowa.

How to Remove the Stigma Around Assisted Living

Many of us joke about “senior moments” when we have lapses in our memory. However, when memory loss and other cognitive functions begin to deteriorate for seniors, it becomes a difficult realm to navigate. Doing daily household tasks and running errands could feel overwhelming for some seniors dealing with memory loss. As we age, things become more difficult, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Issues arise when seniors do not recognize or refuse to admit the need for help from their loved ones or a senior living community or retirement home. This refusal may often stem from stigma surrounding an adult's need for help or an extra hand. 

If you notice yourself or a loved one running behind on bills or food going bad in the fridge, it may be time for an honest discussion about the idea of assisted living options and what next steps should be taken to ensure your loved one’s safety while also maintaining respect. It’s not wrong for seniors to need help and it’s important that they know that. MorningStar Senior Living in Des Moines understands the mental challenges for seniors to accept needing help. Within its communities, MorningStar offers Assisted Living with support at various levels to aid in the activities of daily living. Around-the-clock Care Managers are on site to ensure the comfort and safety of resident’s living in MorningStar’s contemporary and holistic senior living facilities. 

The only difference in our senior years is that we may have to open ourselves to a little help once in a while. From that degree of honesty and transparency, we enter into a truer human experience, one in which we can receive and give love. For adult children, spouses, or caregivers, be honest and show respect to your loved one who is in need of help. There should always be mutual trust and compassion when discussing a topic such as Assisted Living. 

If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community, MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Des Moines, Iowa takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in West Des Moines, Iowa.

How Senior Living Communities can Impact a Senior’s Lifespan

It’s no doubt that over exposure to stress has been linked to poor health, wellness, and overall dissatisfaction in life. As we age, stress can add an extra toll onto our bodies and minds. According to the Mather’s Institute, in recent years it has been found that assisted living communities contribute to a senior’s happiness and well-being which has been found to boost life expectancy. Assisted living facilities give senior’s the ability to live in stress free environments while also granting them independence and exploration. 

Simply said, it’s time to move to Assisted Living when the transition will ease the stress of either the senior’s life or the family caregiver’s life. Assisted Living is the best choice if your parent or loved one needs more personal care than they can get in the home or in an Independent Living community. These individuals do not yet need 24-hour medical care and supervision but may struggle with caring for household chores or personal errands. If you’re looking for Assisted Living West Des Moines, Iowa, MorningStar at Jordan Creek prides themselves on being the ideal senior community for Des Moines, Iowa because of their commitment to holistic health and wellness of their residents by meeting each individual at their own level of need. 

Retirement options are brighter and wider than ever before in history which offers great progress for the overall health of our nation’s seniors. By providing a safe community for seniors to thrive, residents can finally start to relax and rely on their retirement community’s caregivers, instead of worrying about guilt or shame from relying on a spouse, family members, or even themselves. Removing these undue burdens helps to lengthen a senior's life span and elevates personal life satisfaction. 

If you love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and the security that comes from residing in an independent living community, MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Des Moines, Iowa takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you.

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Many Seniors Are Not Being Screened for Cognitive Decline

Medical experts have found that many older adults are not being screened for cognitive decline during routine physical exams and say it would be a good idea to do so.  While many of us would be shocked to hear devastating news that we have early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, doctors say it is important to identify memory loss issues early as available treatments are more effective early-on.  Moreover, if it is determined you do have some memory loss, there are steps you can take to help slow down or mitigate the risk.   

Additionally, if you are wondering if a cognitive test is expensive, Medicare does pay for an annual “wellness visit,” which is supposed to include a quick cognitive assessment to help identify some early warning signs of dementia.  From there your doctor can recommend a more thorough examination.  However, according to an Alzheimer’s Association survey, over half of the respondents said their healthcare provider has never asked about their cognitive health, let alone administered a test.  Less than a third said they had discussed memory and cognitive issues with a doctor.  Joanne Pike, an Alzheimer’s Association chief program officer, says while, “Many older adults say they’ve noticed changes in their mental abilities, “the majority of the time seniors are waiting for the physician to bring it up.” 

So, what does a cognitive assessment include?  To start with, your doctor will ask you directly if you have noticed any changes in your memory recently.  If you have a family member with you, the doctor may ask them if they noticed any problems.  You may be asked to take a short test, but often the assessment includes the doctor asking questions regarding your activities, your interests and how well you are functioning at home.  In fact, you may not even realize you are being cognitively assessed.  

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a team of individuals who understand the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness.  Please visit our website or contact us 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 memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.

How to Feel at Home in Assisted Living

An assisted living facility should be dedicated to creating a true home for its residents and providing their community with carefree retirement years and a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and prosperous relationships. The Assisted Living Facility of MorningStar at Jordan Creek is seasoned in serving seniors and knows how to provide residents with a quality of life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Des Moines offers a wide range of services and amenities that are designed with seniors’ best interests at heart.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek is a senior living community that offers 56 bright suites for assisted living with configurations that include spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 820 square feet). The Reflections Neighborhood is a secure assisted living development that offers 29 suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These suites do not cut corners when it comes to modern luxury and comfort. MorningStar at Jordan Creek is also filled with warm and inviting common areas both inside and out. From our cozy fireside living room to a comfortable dining room and scenic outdoor courtyards, residents are sure to feel right at home.

Within its communities, MorningStar offers Assisted Living with support at various levels depending on each resident’s needs. As part of your move-in process, our Wellness Director will assess your current health, and review your medical history to ascertain how we can best meet your needs. At that time, we will also learn your preferences, as well as normal routines, to develop a care plan customized to you. Around-the-clock Care Managers are also on-site to ensure your comfort and safety as they meet your needs.

MorningStar’s senior living actively looks for holistic techniques and creative activities to promote the well-being of seniors in their community. MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers modern retirement homes in Des Moines IA as well as assisted living with resort-style amenities such as providing residents with three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our dining room. As well as extracurricular activities such as a gym, community rooms for socialization, and a salon. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes and assisted living options in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Iowa.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, Iowa.

Are the Activities of Daily Living Becoming More Difficult for a Loved One?

For many seniors, there comes a time when they feel they are not living life on their own terms, and routine, day-to-day activities start becoming more difficult. To determine if assisted living is the right choice for a parent or spouse, experts say you need to consider the amount of care they require on a daily basis. If it is more personal care than he/she can get (or afford) with in-home services or in an independent living community, yet they don’t need 24-hour medical care and supervision, assisted living is the ideal option.  

People often confuse assisted living with nursing homes; however, they are not the same thing. Nursing homes provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care while assisted living provides help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enhance residents’ quality of life within a residential setting.

While some families may experience sticker shock when first learning the cost of assisted living, you need to consider everything it includes. For example, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s monthly fee includes property taxes, utilities, security system, and the cost of maintenance inside and out. Daily meals are included in the fee as is housekeeping, scheduled transportation and an array of activities, entertainment and outings. 

At MorningStar, we like to think of assisted living as providing seniors “a little help from friends' ' to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Our community offers assisted living suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans that range from 323 to 798 square feet. Onsite amenities include a full salon, bistro, fitness room, theater and fireside patio and porches. For seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to meet the needs of our most tender residents. 

Along with assisted living and memory care, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge also offers respite care (short recuperative stays) or trial stays (up to a full month) so you can see if we are a good fit. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about senior living homes.

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. If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Wheat Ridge.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ Assisted Living

Seniors often feel like a move to an assisted living community signals the end of their independence, but this is not the case at MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. Our goal is to provide the best assisted living Colorado Springs offers, with the services and care needed to give residents the best quality of life. Our beautiful community offers 45 private assisted living suites including spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans.

We recommend families schedule a tour to experience our community firsthand, and we make it easy to do using our Virtual Assistant to set up the day and time. We will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm. However, while a tour is important, please browse through our website and watch the Virtual Tour, read the home page, and take a look at the full list of amenities and floor plans for an overview of our community.

Other informative sections on our website can be found under “First Steps.” We suggest you start with FAQs to get a better understanding of MorningStar and what is offered in our assisted living communities, various resources and care options. You will also find important information on how we determine a resident’s level of care and reassurances regarding our commitment to regularly re-evaluate care plans to keep up with changing needs.  

Our FAQs also give a quick overview of the training our staff receives, which includes an orientation program (and a three-day shadow), Radiance culture training, and Lavender Sky dementia care training.  Our Medication Managers are trained Qualified Medication Administration Persons (QMAP). 

In addition, if you are looking for a new home for an elderly parent, you will appreciate our Decision Guide (also found under the First Steps tab) offering an in-depth discussion on how to decide when the time is right for senior living. You may also want to request our “Senior Life: How to have the best conversation ever with your elder parent,” a practical guide to understanding the psychology of advanced aging. 

Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us to see what sets us apart from other assisted living Colorado Springs offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

Learn More About MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our goal is to provide residents with a comfortable, inviting home where they can safely age in place. Our services, amenities and wellness programs are all geared toward accomplishing this. Residents also receive the often overlooked benefits of community living such as healthy social connections and peace of mind knowing loving support is available whenever they need it.  

All assisted living residents have an individualized care plan created to help them maintain their independence, and our 24/7 care managers make sure the plan is carried out.  MorningStar’s care managers are dedicated, hard-working individuals who provide loving care to our incredible residents and enjoy building strong relationships with them. 

Many of our daily activities are just plain fun and include movie nights, trivia and card games, art classes, exercise classes and much more. Our all-day meal service is targeted to seniors’ palates as well as their nutritional needs. We believe food is a healing medicine unlike any other and is the centerpiece of personal wellness that starts with proper diets and healthy choices. When enjoyed in community, it provides far more than physical nutrients but bonds us as family and friends.

We also have a partnership with Genesis Rehabilitation, a leading provider of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory therapy for older adults. The alliance includes full-time, in-house Genesis therapists and expands our resident services in integrated wellness, promoting optimal independence and abundant life for seniors. 

Along with many support services, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge provides the physical environment to ensure older adults live as safely and as comfortably as possible.  Assisted living suites are equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and each unit has an emergency call system. In addition to 45 assisted living suites, we have 19 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Visit our website for more information about trusted seniors living in Wheat Ridge, CO.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Healthier Alternatives to Sugar Laden Desserts

The U.S. News and World Report published an article on tasty treats designed to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a healthier alternative to more sugar laden desserts. One suggestion from board-certified oncology dietitian, Kailey Proctor, of the Leonard Cancer Institute at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, is to grill pineapple, banana, apple or pear slices. Grilling concentrates flavors by reducing the water content, and further sweetens the fruit as natural sugars are caramelized by the heat.  

Dark chocolate is a known powerful source of antioxidants as research shows it can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and raise HDLs, reducing your risk for heart disease. One healthy, easy-to-make dessert is to melt dark chocolate and spread it over parchment paper. Then sprinkle dried cherries, chopped nuts or sunflower seeds over it; refrigerate for five minutes and cut into small pieces. Another variation is to dip fresh strawberries or other fruit into melted dark chocolate.

Yogurt parfaits are fun to put-together and can be customized to your taste. Using a parfait dish or small bowl, add granola, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, peanut butter or seeds, layering with yogurt. To cut down on fat, use nonfat or low-fat yogurt as it still provides a good source of protein without the calories.

How about banana ice cream made from frozen pureed bananas mixed with almond milk? If you like, add in peanut butter and nuts. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top, which is “thought to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help diabetics manage their blood sugar levels.” 

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our many services include Executive Chef designed meals served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining room. Meals are made largely from scratch with the freshest of ingredients. We also use “BrainWise Foods” known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.  Please visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living communities, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/healthy-dessertsand-theyre-tasty-too