Stretching Exercises will Improve Your Flexibility

Health professionals say it is important to incorporate stretching exercises into your routine especially the older we get as our flexibility naturally decreases. As joints become stiff, and tendons and ligaments tighten up, we become more susceptible to injuries as well as chronic pain and poor posture. In fact studies show men’s flexibility drops sharply at around 70 years of age. 

Stretching exercises are easy to learn, relatively easy to do, and should not take more than five to ten minutes. Urvashi Chogle, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, says the shoulders, hips, knees and spine lose the most flexibility.  He explains, "This makes many everyday movements more difficult, such as reaching overhead, squatting, twisting, and bending over." 

Of course before you begin any new stretching exercises, you need to consult with your healthcare provider. He or she may have suggestions on how to safely get started or direct you to your local community senior center for classes or other organizations catering to seniors. Additionally the Internet has a lot of information on how seniors can improve their flexibility with stretching exercises done in a chair, standing up, or if you can, on the floor. Regardless of your level of fitness, these exercises should help improve your range of motion, flexibility and joint stiffness.   

At MorningStar at River Oaks, our assisted living and memory care provide Houston seniors a carefree lifestyle to safely age in place with a range of hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Our programs include a range of exercise classes such as chair yoga, gentle stretching and others to help keep you moving. Situated in Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood, our home includes 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. Visit our website for more information, and pricing and availability. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2021.

Source: health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/a-plan-for-easy-stretching

Our Senior Living Community is Designed for Your Every Need

When you join MorningStar of Pasadena’s independent living and assisted living community, we do our utmost to make you feel right at home. This starts with a great selection of suites including smartly-designed studios ranging from 389 to 478 sf. Next we have a choice of roomy one-bedroom, one-bath suites up to 840 sf. or one-bedroom with a den options at 746 sf. Need two bedrooms? We have got just what you need with our large two-bedroom, two-bath apartments at 891 sf.  

All of our units come with high-end finishes, spacious closets, kitchenettes with microwave and refrigerator, window blinds and premium countertops as well as private heating & air conditioning systems. For your safety, bathrooms are handicap accessible (with tile floors) and every apartment has a 24-hour emergency call system. Private balconies are available with some suites. 

As an assisted living resident, you will have an Individualized Service Plan created just for you to make sure you get the care you need when you need it. Your plan includes assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living) such as dressing, bathing, eating, and transferring services. Our Level 1 Service Plan also includes medication management, which ensures medications are dispensed and refilled per your prescriptions’ and doctors’ instructions. Other care services include Periodic Health Assessments, an OT/PT Center, pharmacy services and physical exercise classes.

Along with 24-hour care managers to assist in your care plan, access to a full-time licensed nurse (on call 24/7), electronic health records and an exam room, MorningStar of Pasadena has 24/7 Concierge Services to ensure your needs are met. Please contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the area’s finest independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA. We look forward to hearing from you.

Raised Bed Gardening is a Fun & Productive Hobby

For many people in apartments, condos, or small patio homes, having a large garden in not feasible, and even for home-owners with large yards, an extensive gardening space may be simply too much work. This is where container gardening and raised bed gardening allows a person the satisfaction of growing something that is good to eat. 

While it doesn’t matter if you use terracotta, wood, or plastic pots, make they have enough depth and room for the particular plants. Gardening experts say the best way to give your plants a good start is to buy a good quality potting soil containing manure, sand, perlite, or vermiculite. They warn against using soil from your backyard as it may be contaminated from an earlier time, and most likely not have the nutrients your plants need to thrive.  

For beginner gardeners, TV personality and landscape designer Carson Arthur recommends starting with herbs. He says herbs like mint, thyme, cilantro, and basil are simple to grow, and do not require too much water. If you do expand your choices, Arthur advises to think about your growing conditions. For example, if you want to grow tomatoes, how much sun do they require each day and how much does your space get?

Additionally keep track of what was planted in a particular pot from year to year as some plants use a lot of the soil’s nutrients. To use the same pots to grow tomatoes in again, experts say you will have to replenish the soil with calcium. Another tip is to research what plants pair together well. One excellent pairing is tomatoes and onions. Not only do they do well but onions provide tomatoes with protection against insects. Another good mix is planting various vegetables from the cabbage family together.     

At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community, we offer independent living and assisted living apartments in a range of floor plans and configurations. As a resident, you will have opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax and play in beautiful surroundings. Among our many amenities, we have a gardening room, raised gardening beds, courtyards and strolling path. Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the area’s best independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: learn.eartheasy.com/articles/10-expert-tips-for-raised-garden-beds-and-planters/

“Walking is the Closest Thing We Have to a Wonder Drug…”

So the former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Thomas Frieden, is quoted as saying, and many in the medical profession agree. While it is universally acknowledged that any exercise is beneficial to our overall health, walking offers some unexpected advantages. 

One of those advantages is it seems to counteract the effects of weight-promoting genes as the result of a study from a group of Harvard scientists concluded. The project involved looking at “32 obesity-promoting genes in over 12,000 people to determine how much the genes actually contribute to body weight.” Within the group of participants who walked briskly for an hour a day, researchers found the effects of the weight-promoting genes were cut in half.    

Another surprising result of walking is it was shown to actually diminish a person’s sweet tooth. In a recent study out of the University of Exeter, researchers found walking appears to curb cravings for chocolate and other sugary treats. Their study showed even 15 minutes of walking a day could reduce the habit of eating sweets when stressed.  

While doctors recognize any physical exercise is beneficial to reducing the risk of breast cancer, an American Cancer Society study found women who walked seven or more hours a week “had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week.” Researchers say walking helped decrease a woman’s risk for breast cancer even when she had an increased risk due to obesity or supplemental hormones. Other studies show walking helps to reduce joint pain and lubricates and strengthens muscles as well as boost the immune system.  

At MorningStar of Pasadena, our vibrant 55+ community has 149 bright suites for independent living and assisted living. Along with our beautiful studio, one bedroom and two bedroom floor plans, we offer a whole host of amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs.  Please visit our website for more information regarding the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers. 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/5-surprising-benefits-of-walking

Active Learning can Help You Stay Mentally Sharp

Recent research indicates we may be able to promote brain health by engaging in challenging cognitive activities like learning a new skill at an older age. The University of Texas studied the benefits for older adults who pursued cognitively engaging activities later in life. 

The study consisted of 221 participants ranging in ages from 60 to 90, with an average age of 72 to try and determine what type of activities offered the greatest benefit to aging brains. Participants were divided into 6 groups with three taking part in what researchers labeled “productive cognitive engagement” involving active learning. Activities included learning photography and how to edit photos on the computer, quilting on a computer-driven sewing machine or doing both photography and quilting. 

Two other groups were assigned to what researchers referred to as the ‘receptive engagement conditions,’ and neither involved learning new things or engaging in unfamiliar intellectual activities. Rather people were put into a social club where they mainly did familiar activities or asked to read informative material and watch documentaries. All performed their tasks for 15 hours per week for 14 weeks. The sixth group was the control group and did not change their activity patterns.

Researchers compared participants at the end of the study and found those who did productive cognitive engagement had significantly more improvement in episodic memory. They explain episodic memory is our memory of past events and has been found to be the type of memory most impacted by aging. The study suggests “memory improvement need not come from brain games or memory drills, but can also come from learning a challenging new skill.”

MorningStar of Hillsboro is a new 55+ community opening in late 2021 with a host of luxury amenities and concierge services including Chef-inspired meals, an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, social clubs and a variety of indoor and outdoor venues. We will additionally offer a complement of wellness programs and activities designed for residents’ physical, mental, social and spiritual connection. For more information on the finest independent living in Hillsboro, please visit our website. 

Source: matherinstitute.com/2015/06/29/late-life-learning-what-are-the-brain-benefits/

Make Your Retirement Years the Start of New Adventures

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 to do 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 are good 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.  

Museum 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 Kirkland senior living community, residents will find opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Opening later this year, MorningStar of Kirkland will be a vibrant place for active seniors to enjoy carefree retirement years. Along with 151 spacious apartments in a variety of floorplans, we also offer luxury amenities including Executive Chef inspired meals, pool, art studio, fitness center, and more. Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for the newest independent living Kirkland offers.

MorningStar of Kirkland offers 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 a true “home” for residents. Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Discover Luxury Assisted Living in Houston

If you have started the search for assisted living in the Houston area, you will want to include MorningStar at River Oaks. Our all-inclusive community offers an array of luxury amenities found at high-end resorts, while at the same time, all of the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Every private suite is smartly-designed to maximize space and include floorplans in one and two-bedroom configurations. All have high-end finishes, wall-to-wall carpeting, large windows, lighting, and safety features such as full, handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. 

Our goal is to give residents carefree retirement years by providing the care to help them maintain their independence, and the amenities and wellness programs to keep them engaged and looking forward to each new day. MorningStar at River Oaks’ all-day dining service means you can eat when you are hungry and not according to a rigid schedule. A full salon makes it easy to get a new hair style, treat yourself to a pedicure or a manicure. Our fitness center along with specialized exercise classes will help you stay in shape; and MorningStar’s Life Enrichment room will be a busy place with something new always going on. Our sixth-floor sky terrace and lounge is designed as a great place to enjoy the view, watch the sun set and relax with friends. Other outdoor amenities include courtyards with fireplace and BBQ and strolling paths. 

While we will not open to resident until late 2021, we are staffed and ready to answers questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. In fact we recently held our first networking event at our Info center. Our website is loaded with information, and when you contact us, be sure to ask about our “Pre-open Specials.” MorningStar of River Oaks’ goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality of life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community will provide secure suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Fashionable Independent Living Offering Comfort, Style, Services & Location

If you thought you would have to give up something to move into independent living, please meet MorningStar of Hillsboro, Hillsboro, OR’s newest 55+ community. Scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2021, our community has it all starting with 141 contemporary apartments in a range of configurations including spacious studios; and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Each is ready to move into and feature full kitchens, in-suite washer/dryers, handicap-accessible bathrooms, 24-hour emergency call systems, choice of a private patio or balcony, and private heating & air conditioning. 

If you love the idea of hanging out at home while being treated to resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Hillsboro is your place. We offer all the amenities and hospitality services you need to live a full, healthy life such as a fitness center, relaxing patios, club lounges, and a heated indoor pool. Your choice of dining venues includes a casual dining deck to a formal dining room or private dining room perfect for intimate dinners. Enjoy a drink (alcoholic or other) in our bistro/ bar, catch a movie in our theatre or attend service in our chapel. For your convenience, we offer bike storage and underground parking. For those who love to garden, we have raised resident garden beds and peaceful strolling paths. 

To enhance wellbeing, MorningStar of Hillsboro offers a complement of wellness programs and activities designed to engage residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. Another advantageous thing regarding our community is its location. On the east side of Hillsboro in the highly-coveted AmberGlen neighborhood, we are minutes from Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, the Tanasbourne Town Center shopping mall, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Please visit our website for more information on the newest senior living in Hillsboro, OR, and discover what other seniors have already learned about the healthy lifestyle community life offers. As both a gracious home and a high-end resort, MorningStar of Hillsboro provides a range of amenities and concierge services to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle.

Enhance Your Memory and Overall Brain Health

In a recent article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

At MorningStar of Kirkland, we offer a range of services and programs that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit.   We consider wellness to be a joint effort between our Life Enrichment and Wellness programs, which play a critical role in making MorningStar a destination for successful aging.  Visit our website for more information about our beautiful community opening later this year, and what sets MorningStar apart from other independent living Kirkland offers.

MorningStar of Kirkland offers 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 a true “home” for residents. Please call for more information about the finest independent living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Looking for the Best Memory Care for a Loved One?

Searching for memory care for a loved one that suits the person’s needs as well as the family’s is challenging at best. Knowing the person is dependent on getting the level of care they need for both their wellbeing and safety makes choosing the right home essential. Experts say start by taking your time to think about your loved one’s needs including daily personal care required such as dressing, toileting, bathing, etc. as well as any on-going medical needs. 

Additionally do they have mobility issues and use a wheelchair or a walker; or do they need assistance eating? If the person is known to wander, you will want a secure home to keep him or her safe including alarms on the doors. Another thing experts say is to let a home know if the person is prone to angry outbursts or other aggressive behaviors. 

Once you have a good idea of your loved one’s needs, now consider if the homes you are looking at are equipped to handle those needs. Ask about living arrangements, dining service, and the level of daily help the person will receive. Moreover does the home offer exercise programs and other meaningful activities? 

Now inquire about the homes’ experience with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, and the training the staff has in dementia care. What is the home’s philosophy of care and how do they approach difficult situations such as aggressive behaviors? Most of all does the staff seem caring and do residents appear to be content and well-looked after? 

We invite you to take a look at memory care and assisted living Houston families can trust. MorningStar at River Oaks is a luxury community with 85 graciously appointed suites for assisted living. Within our Reflections Neighborhood, we offer 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Ideally locate, we are bordered by River Oaks, West University, The Texas Medical Center, Montrose, Downtown and the Galleria and will open to residents in late 2021.

Facts & Fiction Regarding Arthritis

As May is Arthritis Awareness month, 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 belief 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 reason a person may experience pain in and around joints including old injuries, bursitis, and tendinitis. 

Another myth is you shouldn’t exercise if you if 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. 

MorningStar of Hillsboro is the newest addition to independent living in Hillsboro, OR. Our senior living community has 141 contemporary apartments and offers luxury amenities, hospitality services, and a complement of wellness programs. While new to Hillsboro, MorningStar Senior Living has two other highly-regarded communities in Oregon, MorningStar of Happy Valley and MorningStar of Beaverton. Visit our website to learn more about our community and to ask about our Pre-open Specials. We open in the last quarter of 2021.  

Source: 

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

Each Year, Twenty Percent of Seniors has a Fall that Results in an Injury

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one out of every five Americans aged 65 years and older has a fall that results in an injury such as broken bones or a head injury.  However, medical professionals say while it is important for seniors to take precautions to prevent falls as injuries can be serious, they also remind us that regardless of how old we are, it is beneficial for our overall health to keep moving.  Experts explain that failing to engage in “mild exercise on a regular basis results in reduced muscle strength, decreased bone mass, loss of balance and coordination, and reduced flexibility.”

They go on to say that despite commonly held beliefs, falls are not a normal part of aging and there are things you can do to help keep you on your feet and mitigate the risk of a fall.  Their first advice is to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention.  Tell them if you have fallen and discuss your medications to see if side effects include dizziness or sleepiness that could contribute to falls.  

While falls are common in seniors 65 years of age and older, individuals with dementia are at an even greater risk.  Researchers say there are several reasons for this including gait and balance issues as well as problems concentrating and with staying focused on the task at hand.  Other issues that may increase the risk of falls include poor eyesight and chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, and arthritis or numbness in the feet.  If you often feel dizzy or lightheaded upon standing or suddenly sitting up, ask your doctor if you might have postural hypotension, and find out how you can alleviate the symptoms.    

Further tips to reduce your risk include having your eyes checked annually and updating your glasses when needed.  In addition, talk to your doctor about the best footwear for inside the house as well as outside.  Check your home for trip hazards (the CDC has a list of tips) and install grab bars in the bathroom.  Finally, ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen your leg muscles as well as balance-training exercises to improve balance.   

If you are looking for the finest senior living Kirkland offers, we encourage you to learn more about MorningStar’s new community.  Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year, our beautiful home for independent seniors will provide a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security.  Visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Kirkland offers 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 a true “home” for residents. Please call for more information about the finest senior living Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Doctors Remind Seniors to Get Health Screenings & Vaccines

Medical experts say while people of all ages should keep up-to-date on recommended health screenings and vaccines, it is especially important for seniors as they have an elevated risk for health problems. Due to the pandemic, statistics show many seniors put off routine medical care, and doctors want them to start scheduling those appointments if they haven’t done so by now. 

Under the umbrella of preventive health services, an annual wellness exam is on the top of the list. This visit is used to check blood pressure, weight, and body mass index as well as discuss current medications, level of exercise and diet. Your doctor may ask about your home life to or make sure you are getting the care you need.  

While it was important to get your COVID-19 vaccine, doctors say don’t forget your flu vaccine this fall. Doctors also recommend seniors get the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to help prevent pneumonia.

Older women should get screened for breast cancer as statistics show 40 percent of new breast cancers are in women 65 years and older. Colorectal cancer is another important screening for seniors as 60 percent of new colorectal cancer cases are in adults 70 years and older. Doctors say by age 50 people should get their first screening, and then as recommended by their healthcare provider. Other age-related screenings include diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure and bone density test.

MorningStar at River Oaks senior living community offers assisted living and memory care Houston seniors can count on 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. If you are recovering from a surgical procedure or an illness, we offer respite care as well as short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. Visit our website for further information and pricing and availability.

Is Independent Living Too Costly?

While a retirement community may sound appealing, many senior worry the cost is too high. The truth is, there is a wide range in the cost of independent living communities based on things like geographic location, services and amenities that all impact your monthly fee. 

Luxury communities in metropolitan areas tend to be priced higher as do those in more desirable neighborhoods. Also the apartment’s square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, location within the community such as sought-after views or end-units, balconies or private patios can all up the price. Opting in for things such as a meal plan or moving into independent living but requiring a range of day-to-day services offered in their assisted living units typically increases the price. 

Experts say it is important to consider the value of the services and amenities you receive. In your own home, you may have paid for things like lawn care and landscaping services or snow removal as well as encountered unexpected home repairs and maintenance upkeep. If you need the type of services offered in assisted living, consider what a home health aide cost; and could you afford to pay for services 24/7 as you will find in many senior living communities?   

The social aspect of community living is something many seniors say they were surprised by the amount of value it offers. At MorningStar of Pasadena, we make it easier to connect formally as well as informally with restaurant-style dining, bistro, life enrichment room, poker room, club rooms, fitness center, strolling paths, outdoor gardening areas and a complement of wellness programs. 

MorningStar of Pasadena embodies luxury senior living in Pasadena. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years with opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting and activities amid beautiful surroundings. Our fashionable independent living and assisted living apartments are maintenance free and allow you the time to do the things you want to do. We invite you to contact us regarding availability and pricing for the area’s most trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

June is National Safety Month

Seniors are especially vulnerable to falls, burns, and poisonings and many of these accidents happen in the home. This is why experts recommend using a safety checklist such as the one the CDC publishes, A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults. It points out the problems and provides solutions.

In addition experts say if you have balance problems, you may want to get a fall risk assessment from your healthcare provider. They can give you tips to help improve balance along with suggestions on how to protect yourself from falls. Recommendations include wearing non-slip footwear on smooth floors, and if you need a cane or walker to remain steady on your feet, use it rather than relying on holding on to furniture and walls. 

Keep hallways and stairways free of clutter, make sure they are well-lit, and use the bannister rail when going up or down the stairs. If you do have area rugs, tape the edges down so they do not create a trip-hazard or use ones with non-skid backing. It is important to get annual eye examinations to check for problems, and update glasses as needed.   

Other suggestions include setting your water heater’s thermostat no higher than 120 degree to prevent scalding yourself. Install grab bars in the bathtub and near the toilet and place a rubber mat in the bottom of the tub. Store medications safely and dispose of expired and unused medications. Install nightlights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways.  

At the MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community, we offer 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 and a broad range of amenities and services to meet seniors’ needs including nutrient-rich, tasty dining service. Our residents’ safety is important to us and each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Please visit our website to learn more about unrivalled senior living Pasadena style.

The Risks of Undetected SMIs

Did you know 45% of heart attacks are a “silent myocardial infarction (SMI)” and are likely to go undetected? Expert says they are more common in men than women, and a person typically does not experience the intensity felt during a normal heart attack. Often it is mistaken for heartburn, indigestion and other age-related aches and pains.    

A study published a few years ago in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found evidence of men suffering from undetected mild heart attacks. The study involved almost 2,000 people ages 45 to 84 (half of whom were men) who were free of any signs of cardiovascular disease. When doctors examined the group after ten years, “8% had myocardial scars, which are evidence of a heart attack. Most surprising was that 80% of these people were unaware of their condition.” The presence of myocardial scars was five times higher in men than in women.

While symptoms can be mild and brief, experts say to seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following: 

• Discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts several minutes, or goes away and comes back. It can feel like an uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, or pain.

• Discomfort in other upper-body areas, such as one or both arms, the back, the neck, the jaw, or the stomach.

• Shortness of breath before or during chest discomfort.

• Breaking out in a cold sweat, or feeling nauseated or lightheaded.

There are two methods used to detect a SMI and one or both may be done during a visit to the emergency room. The first is an electrocardiogram (EKG) or echocardiogram that spots heart muscle damage. The other is a blood test that looks for the molecular footprints of troponin T, a protein released by injured heart cells.

At MorningStar of Pasadena, we are a vibrant 55+ community offering 149 bright suites for independent living and assisted living. Our all-inclusive community boasts a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef, a wide range of floor plans to meet residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services providing carefree retirement years.  Please visit our website for pricing and availability on unsurpassed independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.   

This blog is for informational use only and should not be used in place of medical advice from your doctor and healthcare providers

Source: health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-danger-of-silent-heart-attacks

Gifts for Father’s Day for Hard-to-buy for Dads

Does it seem like dad or grandpa has everything they need and you have no idea what to buy for them this coming Father’s Day? Unlike lots of women, many men are not a bouquet of flowers or personalized jewelry type of guys.      

However before you buy anything, remember dads are people too and each is different. While one may love a new power tool, another would rather get a bottle of fine wine or a pair of cashmere socks. Some dads play golf, some fish and some love a good hike. Others are more couch-potato dads and might love a subscription to a premium TV service. On top of that, your gift choice will most-likely be guided by your budget.

One unique gift is a blue-toothed shower head that lets him listen to his tunes while he showers, or perhaps quality, wireless headphones. For a handy fix-it on the spot type of dad, how about a multi-tool/ballpoint pen? The big online retailer offers one with three rulers, built-in level, Philips and flathead screwdrivers, pencil, pen, and stylus. 

If your dad is a space geek and loves everything to do with space exploration, he will love a copy of The New York Times’ book of reprinted pages from key, historical moments of space travel. For the dad who loves fried food, how about a healthier air fryer? For techie dads, how about getting him a new smartwatch? The field has grown over the last few years and ranges in price and features. 

MorningStar at Silver Lake knows your independence is important to you and we offer it in both our independent living and assisted living. 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. Please visit our website and browse through our extensive information. If you have further questions, give us a call. Don’t forget to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Regardless of Your Age, Remember to Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Now that we are older, many of us wished we had taken better care of our skin; however, doctors say it is never too late to protect ourselves from any future damage regardless of our age. In fact remember your older skin is both thinner and more fragile. The CDC says everyone should apply liberal amounts of broad spectrum sunscreen with a SPF 15 or higher every day before they go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. 

If you are doing an activity where you will be sweating, swimming or toweling off, reapply every couple of hours using a higher SPF sunscreen. Check the expiration date, and if it is out-of-date, buy a new one. Recommendations also include wearing protective clothing. Some shirts and pants have a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which is the standard used to measure the effectiveness of sun protective fabrics. A hat should have a brim all around it and made from a tighter-weaved fabric. If you wear a ball cap, remember to apply sunscreen to your ears and the back of your neck. Sunglasses should be another part your arsenal against sun damage to your eyes; and can also reduce the risk of cataracts. 

Avoid the sun during the peak hours of the day; and when you are out; stay hydrated and remember alcohol and caffeine actually dehydrate the body. Men, especially those with lighter skin are most at risk for melanoma; the most deadly form of skin cancers. Moreover if you think following safety guidelines is too much trouble, read the following: The CDC reports every year in the U.S., nearly 5 million people are treated for some form of skin cancer, and melanoma accounts for around 8,000 deaths per year. 

As the newest independent living community in Hillsboro, OR, MorningStar of Hillsboro offers adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Our luxury amenities and hospitality services include chef-inspired meals, an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, social clubs and other indoor and outdoor venues. Please visit our website for pictures and more information.

Source:cdc.gov/cancer/skin/tips-for-men.htm

Walking is One of the Best Exercises for Seniors

Even if you have already moved into the “senior” category of life, medical experts say it is not too late to improve your health and mobility, and one of the best ways to do it is to walk. This was the findings based on the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial, which included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89. Participants consisted of people who were not regularly exercising and fairly frail.  

The participants were divided in half with one group assigned to daily walking and strength and balance exercises. The other group attended educational workshops and were introduced to gentle stretching routines. “After 2½ years, the volunteers in 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.” LIFE’s researchers say the results could have been more dramatic but for the fact that those in the workshop group learned about the benefits of walking and some started to walk and exercise on their own.  

The advantages of walking include stopping bone mass loss, strengthening leg and abdominal muscles, and improving circulation by helping to lower blood pressure and reducing the risk for heart disease. It helps people lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, sleep better, increase mental sharpness, and improve balance and stability. Doctors say walking can increase your lifespan but if you have not exercised in a while, they caution to slowly increase your pace as well as the distance you walk. If you are unsteady on your feet, use a cane or walker, and everyone should wear properly fitting footwear.  

At the new MorningStar of Kirkland independent living community, we offer carefree retirement years. Our community has luxury amenities, hospitality services and beautiful apartments as well as onsite strolling paths and other nature trails nearby that encourage exercise. Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior housing in Kirkland.

Smartly-designed Floorplans Offering Style & Comfort

When we open in the last quarter of 2021, MorningStar at River Oaks will be in a class of its own in terms of other senior living communities in the Houston area. MorningStar Senior Living’s passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none within our several dozen homes across the U.S. 

Our contemporary community offers a warm and welcoming environment throughout its expansive indoor and outdoor common areas that continues with a choice of fashionable private suites you will be proud to call home. Floorplans for assisted living suites include studio; one-bedroom – one bath; and two bedrooms – two bath configurations as large as 1089 sq. ft. All are designed to maximize space and offer large windows, high-end finishes, and storage. Studios are equipped with kitchenettes (fridge & microwave) or full kitchens in one and two bedroom units. Each is equipped with in-suite washer/dryers, handicap-accessible bathrooms, private heating and air conditioning, cable TV & utilities and 24-hour emergency call systems. 

Our secure memory care suites include a studio; one-bedroom – one-bath; or one-bedroom – two baths. For both assisted living and memory care, we provide weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services as well as daily spot cleaning and trash removal. In addition we have underground parking and scheduled transportation. To see actual floorplans for all of our suites, please visit our website.

Whlle on our website, be sure to take a look at the “Virtual Tour,” which provides an overall of our beautiful community and our philosophy and approach to senior living as well as our commitment to serving here at home and the world. MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at River Oaks is near to several medical facilities including the River Oaks Medical Center as well as the beautiful Memorial Park. We are proud to provide compassionate memory care and assisted living Houston, TX families can trust.  Please contact us to learn more.