Learn More About Arthritis

In an article in Medical News Today experts discuss some of the common myths and facts regarding arthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two main types of arthritis, and a national survey found nearly half of adults 65 years and older have been diagnosed with arthritis. OA, the most common and leading cause of disability in older adults, is the result of cartilage between the bones in a joint wearing down. 

Many people believe arthritis is only a disease of the elderly but RA, while not as common as OA, typically starts in individuals as young as 20 to 40 years old. People also mistakenly think if a joint hurts, it must be arthritis. Doctors say there are several reasons a person may experience pain in and around joints including old injuries, bursitis, and tendinitis. 

Another myth is you shouldn’t exercise if you have arthritis; however, studies show exercise can actually help with range of motion and strength in the joint (consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or activity). The American College of Rheumatology says, “Exercise and arthritis can and should coexist. People with arthritis who exercise regularly have less pain, more energy, improved sleep, and better day-to-day function.”

Then there is the debate on whether heat is better than ice for sore joints. The Guy’s and St Thomas’s National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust in the UK, explains, “Used in the right way, heat can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints and muscles. Cold application can help reduce joint inflammation and swelling.” Moreover, experts say believing arthritis is unpreventable is only partially true as there are things people can do to mitigate risk or slow down the progression such as maintaining a healthy body weight. 

If you are looking for exceptional independent or assisted living, Pasadena CA’s MorningStar community may be your answer. MorningStar of Pasadena is a vibrant 55+ community that provides all of the services, resort-style amenities, programs and technology to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.   Please visit our website for a full list of amenities, floor plans and to inquire about availability and pricing.  

MorningStar of Pasadena proudly provides the very best in senior living 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 for more information about the finest independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-arthritis

To Remain Mobile and Healthy in Old Age, You Should Start Walking

A study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking.  Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.  

The 2½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail.  The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises.  The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.  

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.”  The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.  

Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes.  If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.  

At MorningStar of Pasadena, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.  Along with our fitness center, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Pasadena, CA offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar of Pasadena proudly provides the very best in independent and assisted living with our unique mission statement “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 for more information about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173

Is Assisted Living the Right Place for Mom or Dad?

While assisted living has been around in the U.S. for the last several decades, some people are still confused as to what it means. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral services, explains assisted living communities offer long-term housing for seniors to safely age in place. As it is not skilled nursing care, assisted living residents are overall active and independent, but may need support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and using the toilet. As a resident, you get 24/7 care and nutrition, daily meals as well as benefit from a range of wellness programs, the company of fellow residents and staff, and peace of mind knowing help is at hand if needed.   

The American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA NCAL) reports assisted living is a fast growing sector of senior living with over 800,000 Americans currently residing in an assisted living community. Experts say in some cases, depending on the level of services provided, in-home care can actually be more expensive and doesn’t offer all of the services and amenities found in many assisted living communities.

Homes like the newly opened MorningStar at River Oaks provide residents with much more than supportive care. Our Life Enrichment programs offer physical, intellectual, spiritual or social engagement with creative ways to stay active and productive as we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. 

MorningStar at River Oaks is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start 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 talents, time and energy with others. Visit our website to learn more about the newest senior living in Houston, TX. MorningStar at River Oaks is now open to residents. 

Source:aplaceformom.com/assisted-living

Some Medications Can Increase the Risk of Falling

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports 36 million older adults fall each year—resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. Of those falls, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries; and one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. With these alarming statistics, experts say it is important for seniors to know their risk for a fall including whether they are taking medications associated with an increased risk. 

The first step is to talk to your doctor to see if you are taking one of these medications, as medications are the most common reason for falls. Furthermore, experts say adjusting or making a change in medication is the easiest thing to do to help prevent a fall. If it is determined you are taking a medication like one known to cause light-headedness, dizziness, sudden drop in blood pressure, or chronically low blood pressure or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you and your healthcare team can regularly re-evaluate your need and dosage. 

Another way to mitigate your risk for a fall is to do exercises designed to improve leg strength and balance. In addition, be sure to get an annual eye exam and update your glasses as needed. Lastly check your home for trip hazards (keep clutter out of hallways and stairways) and install grab bars and better lighting where needed. 

If you are looking at retirement communities in Hillsboro, OR, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, a true destination for successful aging. We offer seniors independent living with all the comforts of home. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy your precious retirement years. Visit our website for more information, and if you have further questions, please give us a call and don’t forget to ask about our Move-in Specials.

MorningStar of Hillsboro provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR has to offer.

Source:dailycaring.com/10-medications-that-cause-falls-use-with-caution/

Enjoy 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 Hillsboro 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 walk on our strolling paths. 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 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 resident garden beds looking their best, or take in a movie at our own theater/chapel. MorningStar of Hillsboro additionally offers full salon services and more.

In addition, your apartment will have a handicap-accessible bathroom 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 Hillsboro’s 141 apartments are true homes and include studio; one-bedroom, one bath; and two-bedroom configurations.  All come with a full kitchen, washer/dryer and private patio or balcony. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Hillsboro, OR’s MorningStar community may be your answer.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability. While you are there, inquire about our Move-in Specials. We look forward to hearing from you. 

MorningStar of Hillsboro provides the very best in independent living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR has to offer.

Now in an Important Time to Support Your Immune System

Along with the continuing pandemic, winter is the height of the flu season as well as other respiratory and cold viruses. Experts say this means it is more important than ever to boost our immune system to help fight off disease-causing microorganisms.

The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. As it records every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated, our system can quickly recognize and destroy the microbe if/when it enters the body again.

Michael Starnbach, professor of microbiology at Harvard Medical School, explains supporting the immune system is multi-faceted, and the first line of defense is to follow a healthy lifestyle. Recommendations to boost our immune systems include:

• Don't smoke.

• Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.

• Exercise regularly.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

• Get adequate sleep.

• Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask and cooking meats thoroughly.

Research has shown the immune systems of older people are weaker, placing them at a higher risk for contracting infectious diseases. As they are also more likely to die from the disease, they especially need to take steps to protect themselves. Starnbach says this “includes getting the Covid vaccine and booster shot, along with other recommended vaccinations.” He says, “Think of vaccination as a cheat sheet for your immune system. A vaccine introduces the immune system to the invader ahead of time and allows it to develop a battle plan.” If you do get the virus, your immune system is ready to react quickly and perhaps prevent symptoms altogether or at least serious illness.

For the best senior living in Pasadena, CA, MorningStar of Pasadena provides a relaxing, carefree lifestyle for residents. Offering independent living and assisted living with resort-style amenities and hospitality and care services, area seniors trust our community for affordability, comfort and companionship. Visit our website to learn more about our home and all that it offers. Be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/blog/4-immune-boosting-strategies-that-count-right-now-202201122669

Know Your Numbers for Better Health

Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."  

While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure, the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. 

Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL.  

Finally the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. *Consult with your physician regarding testing to determine your own numbers and strategies to improve them.  

We would love to introduce you to the newest senior living in Houston, TX. MorningStar at River Oaks will provide assisted living to seniors who require a little help with daily care, a whole range of resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. While fully licensed for assisted living and memory care, our community also appeals to independent seniors who love the idea of carefree living. Staffed by a dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors; we invite you to visit our website for more information regarding floor plans, list of amenities, pricing and availability. 

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-202112162660