Senior Living Communities Offer Carefree Retirement Years

Seniors are not only living longer but are more engaged and active than their parents and grandparents’ generations were during their later years. Now when someone retires, they see it as a time to pursue new interests and hobbies or improve their golf or tennis game. It is a great time to travel, find meaning in life through volunteerism or spend quality time with the grandkids. It is not the time to worry about endless home repairs and maintenance. 

Independent living communities like MorningStar of Kirkland offer residents predictable budgeting, maintenance-free living, an array of luxury amenities, and a broad community of friends. An all-day dining service relieves you of meal prep and clean-up duties, giving you the time to enjoy the pool or take a peaceful stroll through our Zen gardens. Our onsite bistro/bar is ideal for meeting up with friends before dinner for a cocktail or glass of wine. 

If you have always wanted to delve into the arts, take advantage of our well-stocked Art Studio; get into shape with our fitness center, or participate in one of our wellness programs or activities. If gardening is your passion, help keep the residents’ raised beds looking their best, or take in a movie at our own theater/chapel. MorningStar of Kirkland additionally offers full salon services and more.

You will love the peace of mind knowing someone is always around with our 24/7 concierge services. In addition your apartment will have handicap-accessible bathrooms and a 24-hour emergency call service. For your convenience and safety, we offer secure underground parking; and in case you wondered, we are pet friendly. MorningStar of Kirkland’s 151 apartments are true homes and include studios; and one-bedroom, one bath; and two-bedroom configurations; all come with full kitchen, washers/dryers and patio or balconies. 

Please visit MorningStar of Kirkland’s website for pricing and availability. While you are there, inquire about our generous Founders Club Rewards for Early Depositors. We look forward to hearing from you.

Learn to “Go with the Flow”

The Harvard Medical School journal says it is not surprising mind-body exercises like tai chi and yoga have become more popular over the last few decades as not only do people feel good doing them but more studies are showing the benefits of these exercises. Research suggests practicing tai chi can lead to a longer, more vital life, and is linked to lowering blood pressure, managing depression, building strength and improving balance.   

The Harvard Medical School’s managing editor of introduction to tai chi, Peter Wayne, observed “tai chi was more like a multidrug combination that uses different components to produce a variety of effects.” His interest in the practice led him to develop the “eight active ingredients” of tai chi in order to evaluate the clinical benefits, the mechanisms used to produce these effects, and to shape the way it is taught to participants in clinical trials. 

Wayne says awareness is the most important component when doing tai chi as paying attention to your breathing and sensations in your body helps you become more focused. Another ingredient of the practice is intention. By concentrating your mind through “visualization, imagery, and other cognitive tools used in tai chi,” you can begin to realign your intentions, beliefs, and expectations. One example was research involving stroke victims that found visualizing movements in a paralyzed arm helped some people eventually recover motor function.

“Studies show that older adults who do hour-long tai chi sessions one to three times a week are 43% less likely to fall, and they cut their risk of injury in half!” Other studies report benefits such as pain relief, less stress, elevated mood, increased confidence and a healthier heart. While considered safe for any age, please consult your physician before beginning any new exercise.  

The MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which has earned a reputation for “casting a new light” on senior living. Our goal is to provide the services, amenities and wellness programs to meet our residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.  

Source: 

taichifoundation.org/blog-posts/eight-active-ingredients-tai-chi-excerpted-article-peter-m-wayne-feb-2019  

health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/an-introduction-to-tai-chi?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=HB20211211-TaiChi&utm

Get an Individualized Plan Created Just for Your Needs

Families often wonder how assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Pasadena determine the level of care for its residents. We want to reassure you there is no need to worry mom or dad’s needs will not be addressed as our job includes creating and routinely re-evaluating residents’ individualized care plan designed for their wellbeing and safety.  

Once you and your family decide MorningStar of Pasadena is the best fit, we invite you to sit down with our Wellness Director (a Licensed Nurse) to come up with a specialized care plan based on five levels of care – basic through level 4. Additionally monthly fees are determined by the square footage and location of your suite within the building and the view. We offer: 

• Studios from 389 to 478 sf 

• 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath units from 445 to 840 sf 

• 1 Bedroom w/ Den, 1 Bath configurations at 746 sf 

• 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths at 891 sf

• Spacious floor plans, well laid out & closets

Our care services take into account the cost and time of providing each service such as assistance with dressing and bathing. The result is a highly Individualized Service Plan that offers the right amount of assistance when you need it. Medication management is included in Level 1. Other various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte.

We believe wellness of mind, body and spirit is a joint effort between our remarkable residents and team members. Between clinical services and our life enrichment programs and activities, we work hard to be a breath of fresh air; and look for creative solutions that offer a higher quality of care at a lower cost to families. Working within the scope of our licensing with the Department of Health, we try to find creative solutions to extend the stay of our residents even as health conditions change.
Along with assisted living, we offer independent living with a choice of 149 bright suites designed to provide carefree retirement years. For your ultimate comfort, we offer an array of luxury amenities, concierge services and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Visit our website for more on the finest independent living & assisted living Pasadena, CA offers.

Recently Noticed a Change in Mom or Dad?

If you noticed a change in mom or dad or another loved one over the holidays, you are not alone. Experts say since the holidays are when families spend quality time together; it is also the time many adult children realize their parents are not doing as well as they thought they were living on their own.   

Some of the most obvious signs a parent is having problems caring for him or herself is an unintended loss of weight, change in grooming habits or signs of a fall. The ADLs or Activities of Daily Living are used by experts to evaluate the needs of a person and include personal care such as bathing, dressing and toileting as well as transferring (ability to get in and out of bed, continence and eating. 

Other important signs a person is no longer doing well on their own and could benefit from some sort of assistance are based on what experts call the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These include things like paying bills, taking care of their home, preparing and cooking meals, being able to get out of the home, and socializing. 

At senior living communities like MorningStar of Pasadena, we offer both independent living and assisted living. Our assisted living is designed to provide the services residents need to maintain their independence with 24/7 care managers, medication management, access to licensed nurses and more. Moreover all residents are treated to a delicious, healthy restaurant-style dining service, wellness program and activities, and sponsored community outings and events. 

If you are looking for respite care, (short recuperative stays) or would like to sample community living with a trial stay from one week up to a full month, please contact us for availability. We invite you to visit our website for contact info, a full list of amenities, floorplans, photos, map and more on senior living Pasadena, CA families can trust. We look forward to welcoming you to our MorningStar family.

The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

While we always hear about omega-3 fatty acids and how they are good for us, just what are they? The experts explain omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fat also called “healthy fats.” Research suggests they play a role in protecting us from heart disease and dementia. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) omega-3s are “the primary polyunsaturated fats in brain cell membranes and have been popularized and successfully marketed as dietary supplements.” 

DHA, EPA and DPA omega-3 fatty acids are synthesized by marine organisms such as algae and phytoplankton. They are then consumed by fish, aquatic mammals and crustaceans where the acids are stored in body fat, liver and blubber. When we consume foods from the sea such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, liver of lean white fish and fish oils, we get the benefits of the omega-3s stored in their bodies.  

Another type of omega-3 is ALA derived from plant sources and is the most readily used by the body to create all other types of omega-3 fatty acids. ALAs are found in nuts and seeds like flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts as well as oils like canola and soybean. Experts say although ALA can create all forms of omega-3 fatty acids, “the conversion of ALA to DHA and EPA is poor, so they recommend a dietary intake of a combination of foods rich in ALA, EPA, and DHA.

Along with reducing the risk for heart disease, The Medical News Today (MNT) reports other evidence-based benefits of omega-3s include exerting anti-inflammatory effects throughout the human body, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and improving tolerance to cancer treatments. A study also showed fish oil supplementations protected against major depressive disorders in person between the ages of 15 to 25.

The MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community offers residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. Our beautiful home has 149 apartments for independent living and assisted living in a selection of floor plans along with a broad range of amenities and services to meet seniors’ needs including a healthy, delicious dining service. Each smartly-designed apartment is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Visit our website for more information on trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/omega-3-what-it-can-and-cant-do-for-health#Omega-3-fats:-What-they-can-do-for-health

Practice Kindness & Reap the Benefits

Kindness is the act of doing something to help another person or even ourselves. The good feeling we get by helping others is not something we imagine; as research shows practicing kindness releases feel-good hormones. It actually boosts serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for feelings of satisfaction and wellbeing; causing a sense of pleasure. In addition, studies show doing good work releases endorphins, our natural pain killers.

The Mayo Clinic explains kindness has been “shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a stress hormone, which directly impacts stress levels.” Being kind can also help someone feel more connected to others, thus easing loneliness. Along with extending these positive feelings to others, experts say we should extend the same kindness to ourselves. Practicing positive thoughts rather than letting lots of negativity creep in, can help us feel better.

Steve Siegle, a licensed professional counselor in Behavioral Health in Menomonie, Wisconsin, recommends asking ourselves every day how we can practice kindness; and to take to heart the words of the Dalai Lama – “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." 

MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” This starts by creating a true home for the remarkable residents beneath our roofs, made possible by a dedicated team who understands the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, and their time and energy with others. Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security, we have 112 suites ranging in size from 350 to 1,090 sq. ft. in a choice of floor plans and configurations. We also offer short-term stays up to a month as well as respite care. Visit our website for contact information and ask us about availability and pricing. 

Source: 

mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/the-art-of-kindness

mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/kindness/kindness-matters-guide

quietrev.com/6-science-backed-ways-being-kind-is-good-for-your-health/

Meet Our Executive Team of Dedicated Caregivers

We all know the importance of having an excellent management team leading any type of organization, including a senior living community. At MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community, we are blessed to have just such a team in place.

Starting with MorningStar’s Executive Director, Suzanne Kelley, who exemplifies the values we look for in our team – character, kindness and selflessness; she brings to River Oaks several years of experience in long-term care administration. Suzanne says she is thrilled to be working for a company like MorningStar whose core beliefs guide us in our ability to communicate, empathize, and support those around us. 

Our Wellness Director is Monique Cooper-Bickham who understands the wisdom of seniors can only be appreciated if you take the time to sit and listen to their stories. The first senior she ever loved was her grandmother, Mere’Mere’. When Mere'Mere was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Monique moved back to New Orleans to care for her. It was this experience that was the driving force in her becoming a geriatric nurse. She says, “I wanted nothing more than to care for other people’s grandparents.” 

Rounding out our management team is Leah Montgomery, our Director of Community Relations. She explains that while she was not looking for a job when the opportunity to join MorningStar presented itself, she was persuaded after reading MorningStar’s mission statement and watching the “Of Greater Purpose” origin story. Monique explains it is not often you find a company that boldly stands for Christ, and she knew at that moment “I wanted to work for MorningStar.” 

MorningStar at River Oaks is a luxury community with 85 graciously appointed suites for assisted living. In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have another 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Located in the Upper Kirby district, we are near the Texas Medical Center, Montrose, Downtown and the Galleria. While new to the Houston area, MorningStar Senior Living has over two dozen communities situated across the US. With a passionate commitment to serving seniors, we have earned a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Please ask about the best senior living in Houston.

The Importance of Advance Care Legal Documents

An advanced directive is a legal document giving you a voice involving medical decisions in the event you are incapacitated. Many people shy away from creating such documents as they fail to realize how important they are, and mistakenly worry they are signic

The Harvard Medical School reports on some of the myths people have regarding advance care directives. They say you need to realize more care is not always better but can prolong the dying process without respect for quality of life or comfort. Refusing life support does not mean you are committing suicide but rather allowing your medical problem to be the cause of your death. Moreover, refusing life-extending treatment does not mean you are refusing comfort measures for pain management and symptoms. Talk to your family and doctor about your medical preferences, and be sure each has a copy of your advance directive documents.

If you are looking at retirement communities in Hillsboro, OR, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging.  We offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful home has 141 stylish apartments in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need.  Please see our website for more information about the new MorningStar of Hillsboro.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement communities Hillsboro, OR 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, inviting atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Hillsboro provides outstanding independent living.

Help Elderly Parents Enjoy the Holidays

After last year, most of us look forward to celebrating a more normal holiday season; and with vaccines, many of us will spend quality time with older family members. Experts say there are some things we can do to help them feel more connected to the festivities. 

Start by including them in some of the holiday’s plans such as selecting special foods or choosing the linens to use as it will make them feel needed and get them excited about the events. Experts say if they have memory challenges, serving some of the dishes they have always loved will help bring back pleasant memories.

If time allows, help them get ready for the family gatherings by taking them to a salon, or if they live in an assisted living community with salon services, treat them to a day at their salon. Buy mom or dad a new holiday sweater and give it to them to wear to the festivities, or go over beforehand to help them get dressed in their finest.

Other tips to help mom or dad enjoy the holidays are to get out old photo albums and ask them for some old family stories. Be sure to include family traditions such as watching a favorite holiday movie or playing a particular game. 

If your parents bring up unhappy memories, let them talk; and don’t make decisions for them. Experts say be on the lookout if mom or dad seem to be tiring and offer to let them lie down in a quiet bedroom for a while or ask if they are ready to go home.  

Once MorningStar at River Oaks opens, we look forward to providing seniors the finest assisted living in Houston, TX. Licensed as a Type B community, our qualified team members are available around the clock to assist residents with a variety of tasks to meet their individual needs. We also offer individualized memory care, respite care (short recuperative stays) trial stays (from a week to a full month), or independent living for those who love the idea of stress-free living.

How Many Steps Per Day for Better Health?

We have all heard about the value of walking 10,000 steps a day but recent studies show it may not actually be the magic number. One study published by JAMA found walking 7,000 steps or more a day may decrease the risk for mortality and offer better overall health. 

In the cohort study of 2110 adults with a mean follow-up of 10.8 years, participants who walked at least 7000 steps a day, compared with those taking fewer than 7000 steps, had a 50% to 70% lower risk of mortality. Researchers also noted, “There was no association of step intensity with mortality regardless of adjustment for step volume.”

A 2020 study found a decreased risk for mortality in participants who took 8,000 steps a day than those who only took 4,000 steps a day. In the same year, another study found more steps taken each day were linked to lower rates of diabetes. Researchers say the bottom line is evidence points to the importance of increased physical activity. 

Before you begin walking, talk to your healthcare provider; and if you are just beginning to exercise, be sure to start slowly. Wear properly-fitted, supportive shoes, and if walking during the day, wear sunscreen, protective clothing and a hat. Experts say you may want to take a look at running shoes as they typically incorporate the latest developments in cushioning, motion control and support.  

For exceptional senior living, Hillsboro, OR area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar.  As the newest independent living community in the area, MorningStar of Hillsboro offers adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Our luxury amenities include chef-inspired meals, an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, social clubs and other indoor and outdoor venues.    In addition, We will offer a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed for residents’ physical, mental, social and spiritual connection.  Please visit our website for more information. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Hillsboro, OR 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, inviting atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Hillsboro provides outstanding independent living.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/taking-7000-steps-or-more-a-day-may-lower-mortality-risk

Why Heart Disease can be Overlooked in Women

The online journal, Medical News Today’s reports women and girls across the world still face challenges and discrimination in medical settings both as patients and prospective medical workers. One example of an area in which women’s medical health is often overlooked and misdiagnosed is coronary heart disease (CHD) despite the fact that it is the leading cause of death for women. 

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains CHD occurs when the arteries delivering oxygenated blood into the heart (where it is pumped out to the other organs) are not able to “service” the heart effectively. Studies show women may also be more at risk for developing non-obstructive CHD, a condition that causes the arteries going into the heart to be abnormally squeezed by surrounding tissue.

CHD symptoms can vary between individuals as well as differ in men and women; and non-obstructive CHD can be symptom-less and go undetected for years. To complicate matters, research shows women’s symptoms are atypical and include things like “back pain, burning in the chest, abdominal discomfort, nausea, or fatigue — which makes the diagnosis more difficult.” Additionally studies show part of the problem is too often women wait to get medical attention. Sadly it is frequently after the disease has progressed, and the damage is harder to treat. Researchers also say most of the CHD studies done in the past have concentrated on men and have underrepresented women.  Hopefully in the future, more women will be included.

MorningStar of Pasadena represents luxury senior living in vibrant Pasadena, CA. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years with opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting and activities amid beautiful surroundings. We invite you to contact us regarding availability and pricing for the area’s most trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324659.php

Screenings Help Seniors Stay Healthy

As we age, it is important to stay up-to-date with our health care including routine screenings as many diseases do not show signs of symptoms until the problem is harder to treat. Screenings also allow your physician to compare today’s readings to past tests to look for concerning signs. However medical experts estimate over half of all adults over 65 are not currently with the recommended screenings. 

In many cases our age determines the type of screenings we should get. Some tests are recommended once a year, while others, like a colonoscopy, may be based on past test results and/or on the advice of your doctor. 

Common screenings include annual cholesterol tests to measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Cholesterol tests can help “determine your risk for the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in your arteries that can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries throughout your body (atherosclerosis).” Your blood pressure should be checked each time you visit a healthcare professional, and if readings are high, it should be monitored.

Mammograms are important screenings that help detect breast cancer. Current recommendations for women 40 years or older with an average risk of breast cancer is to have an annual mammograms. For others with a higher risk, consult with your doctor. Other types of screening for seniors include annual skin checks to look for signs of skin cancer and bone density tests to check for loss of tissue and bone, which might indicate early signs of osteoporosis. As we age, annual vision test screen for cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Hearing tests can help seniors get the help they need if there is a problem. Talk to your doctor about which ones they recommend you get. 

MorningStar of Pasadena is a 55+ community with a range of onsite amenities, hospitality and care services, wellness programs and activities designed for relaxing, stress-free retirement years. Visit our website for a full list of amenities and photos as well as links for pricing and availability to the most trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.  

Source: bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/11/09/health-monitoring-devices-and-apps-for-seniors/

MorningStar’s Unique Approach to Senior Living

MorningStar of Pasadena is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, which takes a unique, holistic approach to retirement communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. 

Our company has thrived and expanded since our conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger’s started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living. From there our mission statement reads: 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 has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even more, a name that spoke to the passion I have to bring loving care to seniors.” The name—MorningStar—comes from a verse where Jesus said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star” (Revelation 22:16).

At MorningStar of Pasadena’s 55+ community, we offer 149 spacious independent living and assisted living apartments in a range of floor plans and configurations. Newly renovated and refurbished, our amenities include all-day, restaurant-style dining; bistro; community kitchens; billiards room; poker room; club room; fitness center; concierge services; scheduled transportation; and more. For assisted living residents, wellness services include 24-hour care managers, full-time licensed nurses (on call 24/7), electronic health records, exam room, OT/PT room, pharmacy, medical transportation and more. 

As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax and play in beautiful surroundings. Please visit our website for information on the finest independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers. Browse through our online pictures and then use our quick links to set up a tour to see our home firsthand. 

One Food Group is Common to the World’s Healthy People

When we look at cultures with a reputation for longevity, leading nutritionists and food scientists say there is one food group that stands out. “Blue zones,” areas known for having many of their inhabitants live to an advanced age of hundred years or more, include in their diet, five of the ten most recommended foods. All are from the bean family and include lentils, soybeans, peanuts (a legume in the same family as peas and lentils), chickpeas and black beans.

People living on the Japanese island of Okinawa might enjoy a dinner of stir-fried green beans, soybeans or mung sprouts. Another meal in Nicoya, Costa Rica typically includes black beans. Known for a high level of anthocyanins, a pigment that gives red, purple, and blue plants their rich coloring, beans help fight free radicals and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. In fact anthocyanins offer 10 times the antioxidants of an equivalent serving of oranges. 

Nutritionists say beans also boost the immune system by supplying the fiber our microbiomes need. They suggest the local diet of people in blue zones help them avoid many of the same health risks Americans suffer from such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dementia and cancers. 

At the MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community, we offer residents a lifestyle in which to comfortably and safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. In addition our all-day dining service includes meals prepared under the direction of our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients. Located in Houston’s Upper Kirby neighborhood, architectural features include a sixth-floor sky terrace and lounge offering spectacular views of downtown, courtyards with fireplace and BBQ, and a grand entrance portal located on Revere Street. Our 112 suites range in size from 350 to 1,090 sq. ft. with a choice of floor plans and configurations to please the most discerning seniors. Visit our website for further information and pricing and availability.

Source:cnbc.com/2020/09/15/adding-this-simple-food-to-your-diet-may-help-you-live-to-100-says-longevity-health-researcher.html