Make the Most of Your Retirement Years

As statistics indicate more and more seniors are living well into their mid-80s and beyond, it is all the more reason to continue to play, learn, contribute, create and relax. For many older adults, retirement is the start of new adventures and a new lifestyle. 

Rather than spending your last years lonely and socially isolated, today’s generation of seniors enjoy opportunities not available to their parents. Many are healthier and more active than earlier generations; and experts weigh-in on all of the choices seniors have to make retirement years transformative.

One of those suggestions is to volunteer. If you haven’t done so before, consider the causes you are passionate about and ask yourself what you can do to help. Do you want to make a difference in the environment, get involved in local politics or your church, or help people in your community in need? These are just a few suggestions of the many programs and opportunities to feel useful. 

Other ways you can grow is to take a class in something you have always longed to do or to do better. If you are interested in sharpening your brain, there is much research indicating learning new things is good for us. Some examples include learning to play an instrument or speaking a foreign language. If you want to learn to cook, draw or write, take a class. Many of these things can be done online or through podcasts and audible books.  

Museums and other organizations host virtual events featuring lecturers and renowned authors, orchestra performances and exciting travel programs. Live events may have follow-up sessions to ask questions. Social clubs, recreational activities and sports clubs are other ways to stay connected to people. Retirement is a great time to try a new hobby, train for a marathon, or get a part-time job doing something you have always wanted to do.

At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community we specialize in offering residents opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Our fashionable independent living and assisted living apartments frees you up from endless home maintenance and repairs to do the things you want to do. Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the area’s best independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Summer is Almost Here - Make Sure to Have Plenty of Sunscreen on Hand

While it is important to wear sunscreen every time we go outside in daylight regardless of the time of year, with summer coming, many of us are outdoors for longer periods and need to remember the sun’s rays are stronger. If it has been awhile since you bought your sunscreen, dermatologists say to take a look at the container and check the expiration date. 

They caution seniors it is a mistake to think a little sun exposure is okay, they need the vitamin D, or they have a dark enough skin tone. The fact is 9,500 people a day in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer and one in five people by age 70 will have had skin cancer.  

While there are many good sunscreens on the market, dermatologists say you may want to consider a mineral sunscreen formula. The container should let you know whether it is a mineral or chemical formulation. Mineral sunscreens contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide while chemical sunscreens are formulated with ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate and octisalate. Currently the FDA is reviewing chemical sunscreens to determine to what extent the chemicals are absorbed into the body.    

The next step to make sure you use it so buy one you like. There are as many different ways to apply the products as there are brands and each one has its own scent and feel to it. Some go on quite dry and quickly absorb into the skin while others are very creamy or oily feeling. If you decide on a spray version, never spray it directly on your face or your child’s but rather spray it on your hands and use them to apply to the face. Water-resistant formulas are good for swimming or sports where you sweat a lot. 

Dermatologists caution most of us never apply enough. The amount of sunscreen needed to ensure protection is way more than you think. It is recommended “adults should count on using a shot-glass-size glob for the body (more if you're generously proportioned or tall) and a teaspoon amount for the face.” The face includes ears, neck and upper chest area.  

MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community offers residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. We have 149 suites for independent living and assisted living in a selection of floor plans and a range of amenities and services to meet your every need. Please visit our website to learn more about unmatched senior living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2020/sunscreen-sun-safety-tips.html

Relief for Seniors as More and More are Fully Vaccinated

It is a big sigh of relief for more and more seniors as they get vaccinated and are able to once again make plans to reconnect with grandkids, family and friends in person. The CDC reports it is safe for individuals who are fully vaccinated (after a period of 2 weeks) to visit others who are fully vaccinated or visit unvaccinated low-risk family members from a single household indoors without masks. 

The extended time apart has some grandparents worrying the grandkids may not feel as comfortable with them as they once did. Despite regular Zoom and FaceTime calls, we know it is not the same as hanging out together face-to-face but experts say it should not take much time at all for relationships to feel more natural.    

There is still a precaution on traveling distances to visit family but many medical professionals feel it is just a matter of time before the CDC approves airline travel for fully vaccinated people. Current guidelines say vaccinated people still need to wear masks and maintain social distancing when with unvaccinated people from more than one household or with anyone at high-risk for severe illness from COVID. They say avoid medium or large-size crowds. If you are exposed to someone with COVID, it is not necessary to get a COVID test unless you have symptoms.

Many seniors are happy to emerge from social isolation and are slowing considering doing the things they did before the pandemic. Following guidelines, some are going back to church, attending exercise classes, resuming their volunteering, or starting to eat out again. Across the board, seniors say the sense of relief and reduced anxiety feels great and they cannot wait to get in some real hugs.

At the MorningStar of Pasadena 55+ senior living community, we provide a relaxing, carefree lifestyle for our residents. Offering independent living and assisted living, we are proud of our warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living Pasadena offers.

Your Best Step Forward as Neither an Optimist nor a Pessimist

Psychologists suggest that true happiness lies somewhere between always seeing the sunny side of life to feeling things will inevitably end badly.  While many of us believe being an eternal optimist is the best way to see things, research shows that being somewhere in the middle is actually the best path forward. Ronald Siegel, an assistant professor of psychology, part-time, at Harvard Medical School and medical editor of the Harvard Special Health Report Positive Psychology, explains, "Better than cultivating an artificial optimism is to see the situation and the world realistically."   

Siegel says automatically assuming a positive or negative view of something limits our ability to build resiliency and to figure out solutions to our problems.  He counsels to “have the faith in yourself that you'll be able to rise to the occasion and deal with whatever comes your way, whether it's good or bad fortune." Adopting a realistic view avoids deluding ourselves on the outcome and prepares us for a more realistic one.   

To better deal with uncertainty, Siegel says to take stock of the present and be more mindful about what we have now.  Also it is important to create a strong support system to help you deal with life’s ups and downs.  Broaden your connection to life by strengthening your faith or worldview and always keep the big picture in mind to find purpose and meaning in life.

For seniors searching for independent living or assisted living, Pasadena’s MorningStar of Pasadena is one of the area’s best senior living communities.  If you need respite care, (short recuperative stays) or wish to sample our community with a trial stay from one week up to a full month, contact us for availability.  Also once you join our community, you will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.  Visit our website for contact info, list of amenities, floorplans, photos, and map as well as information about The MorningStar Senior Living Company.  

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA families can rely on.  

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/an-outlook-better-than-optimism

Want to Lose Weight? Pay Attention to Portion Size

In addition to the types of food we eat, dieticians say it is also important to pay attention to portion size when attempting to shed a few pounds as it will help us reach our goal.  When trying to diet, sticking to nutrient-dense, relatively low-calorie foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and poultry are your best choices; but no matter how healthy a food is, you still should not overconsume.  

This is where portion control plays a part.  Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant-Based Eats, a collection of curated meal plans, grocery lists and nutrition tip sheets, explains that while foods like almond butter and dark chocolate are good for us, they should be eaten in moderation and in proper portions.  In other words, the bottom-line is a large chocolate bar should not be consumed in one sitting.    

However to complicate matters, experts explain that in many cases, strictly following portion sizes suggested on the container would differ from what a registered dietician would recommend.  The problem with across-the-board portion sizes is they do not address age group, gender, and activity level of the particular person.  Add to that, portion size is a critical component to actually losing weight especially in foods that are higher in calories.  

Also eating the right amount of food helps to maintain a balanced gut. The Harvard Health Men’s Watch, suggests “a healthy gut microbiome stimulates the body’s immune system and may shield against an array of chronic diseases, including: cancer, heart disease and Rheumatoid arthritis.”

At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community, we offer residents comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting.  Our beautiful home has 149 suites for independent living and assisted living in a selection of floor plans and a broad range of amenities and services to meet every need including a nutritional, delicious dining service.  Also as a new resident, you will have priority access to the COVID-19 vaccine.  Please visit our website to learn more about unrivalled senior living Pasadena style!

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website for more information on trusted independent living & assisted living in Pasadena, CA.   

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/portion-control-what-you-should-know

A Company that Begin with the Mission of Honoring Seniors

While there are a number of senior living options in the area, MorningStar of Pasadena stand out as one of the best.  Formerly the Fair Oaks by Regency Park, our senior living community is now under the management of the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  

At first glance, you may not think that makes much difference but 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 re-create 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.  

MorningStar of Pasadena is a vibrant 55+ community with 149 bright suites for independent living and assisted living.  Our all-inclusive community offers a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a wide range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years.    Please visit our website for more on the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers.    

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability on unsurpassed independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA   

Senior Living Offers Many Benefits

If you have gotten tired of the constant maintenance and repairs that home ownership requires, it may be time for a change.  Perhaps you feel like your social life has shrunk since you retired, or maybe you have recently suffered the loss of your spouse and are lonely.  Many seniors who have felt like you do have discovered the advantages of 55+ senior living communities like MorningStar of Pasadena, and have not looked back.  

To start with, senior living means never having to worry about mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or coming up with the money to replace a furnace or air conditioning system.  Seniors also say they enjoy living in a community of people around their same age and who share many of their same interests.  At MorningStar of Pasadena, residents have opportunities for new friendships as well as to participate in a range of activities as much or as little as they like.  We additionally give residence security of knowing someone is always around with a 24-hour emergency call system. 

If you are downsizing from a home that is larger than you need, senior living may even be financially beneficial.  Predictable budgeting is another peace of mind benefit as all of your bills are rolled into one monthly payment including basic cable TV, utilities and phone.  Daily housekeeping services, restaurant-style dining, and onsite amenities including a general store, fitness center, 24/7 Concierge Services among others, ensures your retirement years are truly stress-free.    

Moreover for seniors who require a little help with  activities of daily living (ADLs), we offer compassionate assisted living Pasadena families can count on with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses and more.  If you need respite care, (short recuperative stays) or wish to sample our community with a trial stay from one week up to a full month, contact us for availability.  Lastly once you become a resident of MorningStar of Pasadena, you will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.  Please visit our website for contact info, list of amenities, floorplans, photos, and map as well as information about The MorningStar Senior Living Company.  

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA families can rely on. 

Senior Living Offering a Wide Range of Floor Plans

Comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting are just some of the benefits of senior living communities like MorningStar of Pasadena offer.  With 149 suites designed for independent living and assisted living, you will discover a broad range of floor plans that meet the needs of even the most discerning seniors.  

Our stylish, spacious apartments include studio; one-bedroom, one bath; one-bedroom w/den, one-bath; and two bedroom, two baths configurations with some as large as 891 sq. ft.  Each one has a kitchenette with full-size refrigerator and microwave; premium cabinets and countertops; high-end finishes; window blinds; closet space and lots of lighting.  Bathrooms are handicap-accessible and have tile floors.  Every suite also has an emergency call system that gives residents peace of mind knowing someone is always around to help if needed.  

Our services also include all interior/exterior maintenance, community laundry rooms and daily housekeeping.  Some suites offer private balconies and all have private heating and cooling systems.  And yes, in case you wondered, we are pet friendly (please check with us regarding our pet policy).

MorningStar of Pasadena (formerly known as Fair Oaks by Regency Park) is now under the management of the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  We have communities scattered across the Western U.S. and have earned a reputation for “casting a new light” on senior living with the goal of meeting residents’ social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs.   Moreover while we were founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition, we honor all faith systems and worldviews and believe it is our responsibility to honor spiritual preferences as part of caring for the whole person.  

Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful community, our many services and amenities as well our philosophy and background.  In addition as a new resident, we want you to know you will have priority access to the COVID vaccine.   

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Let Us Introduce You to MorningStar's Newest Community

MorningStar of Pasadena (formerly known as Fair Oaks by Regency Park) is now under new management.  The MorningStar Senior Living Company is proud to introduce area seniors and their families to a vibrant 55+ community that is unlike any other in the area and offers 149 bright suites for independent living and assisted living.   

Our luxury community provides all of the services, resort-style amenities, programs and technology to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.   Starting with a 5-Star dining service that includes meals prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients, restaurant-style dining and a private dining room, we have an onsite bistro, theatre/chapel, community kitchens, community store and more.  Other amenities include billiards room, poker room, club rooms, spa baths, massage and fitness center as well as 24/7 Concierge Services and scheduled transportation.  

Additionally you will find an expansive exterior with raised gardening beds and a gardening room so residents can still enjoy “puttering around” a garden.  Our beautiful courtyard offers strolling paths and patio areas so residents can get outside and enjoy California’s ideal weather.  To keep you connected, we offer wired Internet with a wall jack in each of our smartly-designed private suites.   

For seniors who require a little extra help with daily care activities, our assisted living is personalized and includes 24/7 care managers, licensed nurses, medication managers, and more.  An “Individual Service Plan” is created after a thorough assessment of your needs to make sure you get the proper assistance when you need it. 

However in addition to beautifully-appointed and inviting common areas both inside and out along with lots of amenities and care services, we are most proud of our dedicated team.  We intentionally hired people with virtues such as kindness, character and selflessness, and then provided them with training and support.  Please visit our website for a look at our gallery of pictures, a full list of amenities, and our various floor plans as well as to inquire about availability and pricing.  

MorningStar of Pasadena’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities.  Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior living Pasadena offers.