Unsurpassed Independent Living in Pasadena

If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Pasadena CA’s MorningStar community is a step above the rest.  Our recently renovated community is ideally located in the commercial and cultural heart of the San Gabriel Valley, convenient to shops, entertainment, and other services.

For stress-free living and a refreshing change of lifestyle, MorningStar of Pasadena has it all.  With 149 stylish suites, we provide seniors with carefree, comfortable retirement years.  Several floor plans are available including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations.  Each apartment has high-end finishes and a kitchenette, and some have balconies. All that’s missing are your personal furnishings to make it feel like home, and yes, we’re also pet friendly.

In addition, MorningStar of Pasadena has beautifully appointed, warm and inviting common areas where residents can comfortably gather and enjoy the day.  Residents particularly enjoy the gardens, bistro and community room. When you visit our website, we encourage you to look at our renderings to get an idea of what our community looks like.    

Another thing you will appreciate about MorningStar of Pasadena’s independent living is the freedom from costly, unexpected home repairs and on-going maintenance.  Instead, you will love the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living, including healthy and delicious meals created by our Executive Chef.  Just some of the amenities include a fitness center, community store, theater/chapel, and full-service salon. 

You also get peace of mind knowing that if you are in one of our independent living suites and find yourself in a position where you need help with the tasks of daily living, our community offers an assisted living option. In addition, we offer respite care, (short recuperative stays) and trial stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit.  Please visit our website for more information about our beautiful senior living community. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Pasadena, “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 learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers.

Cut Your Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease with a Change in Diet

Several studies are showing links to our dietary habits and our risk for Alzheimer’s disease.  The Mayo Clinic reports that a hybrid of two diets, the DASH diet that helps reduce high blood pressure and the Mediterranean diet that improves heart health, may protect our brain health.   

Known as the "MIND" diet, which is short for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, the diet consists of lots of natural plant-based foods while limiting red meat, saturated fat and sugar.  Based on observational studies, research suggests that following the MIND diet can “reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by up to 53 percent as well as slow cognitive decline and improve verbal memory.”

One category of food at the top of the list is green leafy vegetables with a recommendation of at least six servings a week in dishes such as salads.  The diet also includes one serving of other vegetables daily.  MIND’s primary fruit is to eat berries at least twice a week.  Red meat is reduced to less than four times a week, cheese to less than one serving per week, while poultry and fish consumed twice or once a week respectively.  Other recommended proteins include nuts and beans.  

Oil should be mainly from olive oil and butter or margarine reduced to less than a tablespoon a day; and fried or fast food eaten less than once a week.  MIND includes a glass of wine a day but limits pastries and sweets to less than five times a week.   The Mayo Clinic says study results also found you do not have to strictly follow the diet to gain benefits.  For example, “adults in the study who followed the diet most closely (an average score of 9.6 points out of 15) saw the biggest drop in their Alzheimer's risk, the ones who scored in the middle (7.5 points) still cut their risk by over a third.” 

At MorningStar at River Oaks senior living community, our many services and amenities include 5-Star dining.  Our delicious Executive Chef inspired meals are prepared largely from scratch and include the freshest, healthiest ingredients.  In addition, our nutritional choices include low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat for residents to self-manage.  

Our beautiful home offers suites for assisted living in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Additionally, the Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to specialized dementia care for residents with memory impairment. Please visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living Houston offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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 senior living Houston offers.

Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/15-simple-diet-tweaks-cut-alzheimers-risk/art-20342112

Contemporary Senior Housing in Hillsboro

Excitement is building as we get closer to the opening of the new MorningStar of Hillsboro 55+ community. Located in the popular AmberGlen neighborhood on the east side of Hillsboro, our 141 stylish independent living apartments are available in a range of floor plans and configurations. Each has a full kitchen with premium cabinets and countertops and an in-suite washer/dryer. Units offer private heating & air conditioning, patio or balcony, 24-hour emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom.  In addition, we welcome your furry friend, just check with us regarding our pet policy.

The vibrant community of Hillsboro is a great place for seniors. The Kaiser Permanente Medical Center is close by as is the Tanasbourne Town Center, offering shops, restaurants and entertainment. Along with our own landscaped grounds with relaxing strolling paths, we are a few miles from the Tualatin Hills Nature Park and Tualatin Hills Nature Center, making it easy for residents to get out and enjoy nature.  

MorningStar takes care of all the maintenance, both inside and out, as well as provides weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services.  Imagine all the time you will have in a maintenance-free environment to pursue your own interests. Maybe it is time to improve your golf game, start or renew a hobby, get closer to the grandkids or volunteer in your community. At MorningStar we believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless and offers an atmosphere that promotes a healthy engaged lifestyle.

Along with a choice of independent living apartments, MorningStar of Hillsboro residents will enjoy a range of hospitality services and luxury amenities including dining service, pool, fitness center, salon and more. Since 2003 the MorningStar Senior Living Company has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our mission: to honor God, to value all seniors, and to invest generously in our team. Please visit our website for our contact information and to learn more about the newest senior living Hillsboro OR offers. 

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. If you are looking for the finest senior living Hillsboro OR has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Hillsboro.

Stay Up to Date with Your Routine Health Care

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 current 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 a valuable tool to help detect breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women 50 to 74 with an average risk of breast cancer get a mammogram every two years. For younger women and those with a higher risk, consult with your doctor. 

Other types of screenings 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. Eye exams are important to 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 tests they recommend for you.   

At MorningStar of Kirkland, residents will find opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Our community is a vibrant place for active seniors to enjoy carefree retirement years. Along with spacious apartments in a variety of floorplans, we also have luxury amenities including restaurant-style dining, pool, art studio, fitness center, and more. Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the newest senior living Kirkland offers.

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. If you are looking for the finest senior living Kirkland offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. 

Source: bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/10/14/senior-health-screenings-promote-a-long-healthy-life/

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Houston

If you are worried about an elderly parent who lives alone and may not be getting the kind of personal daily care, meals, or company they need; it may be time to consider assisted living.  At MorningStar at River Oaks, we specialize in providing care for seniors who need a little help with their day-to-day personal care activities but do not require 24-hour medical care.  

We have seen first-hand how the transition to assisted living eases the stress of either or both the senior’s life and the family caregiver’s life.  Moreover, we recognize that assisted living at its best allows residents to not only survive but to thrive.  We achieve this with a wide range of care services, fine dining, and meaningful wellness programs and activities.  In addition, residents enjoy built-in companionship as they make new friends with fellow residents and our truly loving staff. 

To give families a good idea of what services are provided with assisted living, we are happy to answer questions.  Also, we suggest you look at our website where you will find a lot of information.  A good place to start is our Decision Guide under the “First Steps” tab.  Here we go over things to look for that may indicate your parent needs more help such as recent falls, unexplained weight loss, poor balance, and/or poor personal hygiene.   From there, look at our FAQs for more details.   

Under our “Wellness” tab we go over our dining services, life enrichment programs, and clinical care services.  We also like to direct interested families to “Our Heart” to read a little background on how MorningStar Senior Living began and what its mission and precepts are all about.  

While you will discover our company was founded on Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews as we believe it is our responsibility to respect residents’ spiritual preferences.  In fact, our goal is to meet a resident’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs as part of creating a comfortable home and compassionate care. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Houston has to offer. 

MorningStar at River Oaks represents the very best in senior living.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us to see what sets us apart from other assisted living Houston offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

Reduce Medical Errors by Being an Active Partner in Your Care

A National Institute of Health survey found patients who were most satisfied with their healthcare were those engaged in self-advocacy. This included a person becoming knowledgeable about their injury and health care needs; and being persistent about speaking up for those needs. The NIH also explains those who felt better about their experience practiced communication skills, were organized, talked to peer mentors and kept a positive attitude. 

Research shows practicing self-advocacy, or when a family member actively advocates on the behalf of a loved one, reduces medical errors in hospital settings, doctors’ offices or at the pharmacy. It is important as the World Health Organization reports “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” Also, according to a 2021 report in StatPearls, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”  

Most errors are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines; and misdiagnoses means delayed treatment and taking the wrong medicines. To ensure the best care you need to be honest with your healthcare provider. This includes providing an account of your symptoms and a list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, supplements and vitamins you take. Be sure to let them know if you have any drug allergies and provide as complete a medical history as you can including your personal medical record as well as that of your family’s. In addition, let your medical team know if you are a smoker and the amount of alcohol you consume. 

Additionally, remember the time you spend with your doctor is short, so prepare beforehand the things you wish to discuss. The Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore has a QuestionBuilder app available by AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple store to guide you in questions you should ask. 

Experts also say to remember you and your doctor are a team. Being your own health advocate or that of a loved one means helping them follow the medical advice recommended by the doctor regarding diet, rest, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and taking medications as prescribed.  

For exceptional senior living, Houston seniors and their families are encouraged to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. Our beautiful home provides assisted living and memory care with a wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or see our website for more information.

MorningStar at River Oaks represents the very best in assisted living and memory care.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us to see what sets us apart from other senior living Houston offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/aging-health-advocate#1

Improve Mobility with Stretching Exercises

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”  

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do for their independence. If you are unable to get up from a chair or out of bed each morning, you will need assistance. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology recently reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. 

For luxury senior living, Houston’s new MorningStar at River Oaks is sure to please.  Our community provides residents with tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to help stay fit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. To learn more about our wide range of resort-style amenities and services, please visit our website.  

MorningStar at River Oaks represents the very best in assisted living and memory care. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.   Contact us to see what sets us apart from other senior living Houston offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

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