Learn More About Cataracts

Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the lens, which is normally transparent, and are the main cause of vision loss in people over 40 years of age. It is estimated more than 40 percent of Americans aged 75 years or older have some degree of lens clouding; and over half of people 80 or older have their vision significantly impaired by cataracts or have had cataract surgery. Surgery is generally recommended once vision is impaired to a degree that people have trouble reading, driving and recognizing faces. Today the surgery is a quick, safe procedure, replacing the cloudy lens with a clear plastic one. 

Doctors say there are things people can do to reduce their risk of developing cataracts with quitting smoking at the top of that list. Medical News Today reports on studies linking a 3-fold increase of smoking to cataracts as well as raising the risk of a number of other eye conditions. A healthy diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, good quality fats (avocados, olive oil, and omega oils) and lean animal-sourced or plant-sourced proteins additionally reduces the risk of cataracts. 

Maintaining a healthy weight is important as obesity increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is a risk factor for cataracts. Other ways to reduce your risk include wearing UV blocking sunglasses when in the sunlight and getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night. The risk for cataracts also increases with age, family history, and a history of eye inflammation or injury. 

If you are not ready for surgery yet, doctors say stronger glasses and brighter lights may help. Keep up with regular eye exams and renew your eyeglass prescription as needed. Wear sunglasses in the sun and avoid night driving. As your cataracts continue to develop and eyesight worsens, at some point you will most likely need surgery.  

Are you looking for exceptional senior living in Houston? MorningStar at River Oaks provides a lifestyle of luxury that focuses on wellness, comfort and community. We offer stylish assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans along with secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  We make it easy for your retirement years to be carefree with a full range of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities as well as a staff who feel called to serve seniors. Please see our website for more information. ​

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 for more information about the finest senior living Houston offers.

The Effects of Loneliness on Seniors

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), statistics show seniors who report feelings of loneliness are at higher risk for several diseases including dementia and are more likely to experience premature death. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) says “one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.” Social isolation is a lack of social connections and a result of a person living alone, having a spouse and/or other supportive friends or relatives die, or suffering from chronic illness. Other related problems include a lack of transportation, mobility impairment and untreated hearing loss, which all limit the senior’s opportunity to engage with others. 

AARP Research surveyed adults 45 and older regarding their feelings of loneliness. Of those respondents who rated their health as excellent, only 25 percent said they were lonely. Among participants who said their health was poor, 55 percent reported feeling lonely. The CDC also says studies find social isolation or loneliness is linked to a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke as well as a 50% percent increased risk of dementia.

If you are looking for exceptional independent living or assisted living, Pasadena’s MorningStar community may be your answer. We provide everything seniors need to safely and comfortably age in place. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live full productive lives. Our Life Enrichment team will present creative ways to stay active and come with the benefit of not just camaraderie and fun, but some accountability (for you will be truly missed if you don’t show up).

For the most active seniors, our independent living suites offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with predictable budgeting and built-in companionship.  If you are a senior who needs help with the ADLs (the activities of daily living), we offer assisted living suites in a variety of configurations and floorplans.  Contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar of Pasadena.

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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers.

Source: cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html

Adult Children Often Feel Guilty About Moving Mom or Dad to Assisted Living

Many adult children feel as if they let their parents down by moving them into an assisted living community. Mom or dad may have even asked years ago that you never put them into a “home,” and at the time, you made the promise; and/or you know families whose adult children have opened their home to their parents. You keep thinking your parents spent years caring for you, and now when they need help, you turn to strangers to provide the care they need. 

Experts explain feelings of guilt are normal and moving a loved one to an assisted living community is probably one of the hardest decisions you will have to make as an adult. However, they quickly add it is important to remember they were not getting the assistance they needed at home. For their safety and wellbeing, they need to move to a place where they will receive the proper care. 

Rather than waste time thinking you have let them down, think of it as giving them a better quality of life where they can safely age in place. Experts say stop comparing yourself to others who may have made different decisions; and most of all to remember “people who don’t help and don’t understand the situation aren’t qualified to make judgments or accusations.” Also, remember your loved one is getting older and chances are their health is not going to improve in the long-run regardless of where they are living. By getting the care they need, assisted living can offer a senior the feeling of independence.  

For outstanding senior living in Houston, we encourage families to consider MorningStar at River Oaks, a true destination for successful aging.  We provide all the amenities, wellness programs, and care services residents need for their comfort and wellbeing.  Our beautiful community offers 85 stylish suites for assisted living in a range of floor plans to accommodate residents’ preferences and needs.   In addition, 27 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston offers.

Source: dailycaring.com/3-reasons-to-stop-feeling-guilty-about-putting-mom-in-assisted-living/

A Good Night’s Sleep Enhances Memory, Improves Mood and Regulates Appetite

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep every night.  Good sleep quality is also important. Signs of poor quality sleep include not feeling rested even after getting enough sleep, repeatedly waking up during the night, and experiencing symptoms of sleep disorders such as insomnia, restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea.  Experts say a good night’s sleep enhances memory, improves mood and regulates appetite. 

Experts offer some tips to help individuals achieve better sleep by the choice of foods consumed as well as what food or drink to avoid. Foods interfering with sleep include caffeine and large meals as well as alcohol consumed too close to bedtime. As a deficiency of folate is linked to insomnia, a study from the Taipei Medical University found eating two kiwis, which are high in B vitamin folate and vitamins C and E, an hour before bed helped participants fall asleep faster, sleep longer and more efficiently. 

Another food to help induce sleep is tart cherries. They contain natural melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles, and a phytonutrient linked to promoting better sleep. Additionally, nuts like almonds and walnuts contain melatonin; and pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is converted to melatonin. Passionflower tea, chamomile tea and warm milk can also help promote sleep. Other sleep-inducing foods include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, which are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, and help regulate sleep, mood and other functions.

MorningStar of Pasadena strives to provide residents with all the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years. Residents enjoy chef-inspired meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious and include BrainWise super foods. These are foods known to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens. For trusted senior living in Pasadena, CA, please contact us or visit our website.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers.

As You Age, a Nutrient-Rich Diet is Especially Important

As people age, many find their appetites have diminished or they suffer from physical or medical conditions that make eating more difficult.  Also, their metabolism slows down so they need fewer calories than before.  Therefore, the nutritional value found in the foods they do consume is more important than ever. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advise that people over the age of 50 follow the USDA food recommendations, which should help keep older adults feeling more vital, and thus healthier.  They also point out the earlier you start eating a nutrient-rich diet, the more effective it will be later down the road.  Recommendations include a daily diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy.  It also includes eating foods with healthy fats such as olives, nuts, and avocados. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at River Oaks is proud to offer our residents daily meals that are chocked full of the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced when possible.  Our delicious meals are prepared largely from scratch and take into account seniors’ dietary restrictions.  We offer a range of choices including low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low fat that allows our residents to self-manage.  MorningStar’s food service is overseen by our own Executive Chef, who welcomes resident feedback and often tailors our menus per their suggestions.  

MorningStar’s stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and 2-bedroom configurations.  Amenities include a fitness center, bistro, salon, courtyards, sky terrace, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. For trusted assisted living Houston seniors and their families can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks.

MorningStar at River Oaks provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 assisted living Houston has to offer.

Surprise Your Favorite Senior With a Personalized Gift Basket

Do you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior community who lives too far to visit?  How about sending something special to show your thinking of them even if it’s not their birthday or a holiday.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Do they love chocolate or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, give them a weighted blanket.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   
​
MorningStar at River Oaks is an elegant, contemporary community offering senior living in Houston.  Our beautiful home provides assisted living, memory care, short-term stays and respite care for those recovering from surgery or an illness.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. Be sure to ask about our Limited Time Savings.  

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 for more information about the finest senior living Houston offers.

Gift Ideas to Keep Your Senior Loved One Healthy

We all want our loved ones to lead long, healthy lives so why not encourage them when birthdays and holidays come around. One suggestion is to buy a loved one a fitness watch. The marketplace has a wide assortment of watches as well as sensor devices to measure your daily footsteps and help keep you moving. Moreover, they come in many price points and offer a variety of features. 

Research shows measuring your daily activity improves your fitness level and can help people with obesity, diabetes, and heart disease boost physical activity levels.  JAMA Network Open published a finding which reviewed 38 randomized clinical trials with 4,203 participants.  They stated that “interventions with wearable fitness trackers were associated with significantly increased physical activity levels after approximately 15 weeks. Devices such as pedometers or trackers that count steps were associated with greater levels of physical activity in about 70 percent of the studies examined.”

Another healthy gift idea is a massage gun. Known as a self-myofascial release tool or SMR, they help overworked muscles recover and heal. Foam rollers additionally provide much of the same benefit at a much lower price point. However, experts caution before treating an injury or other medical problems including bone fractures, blood clotting issues, sensory deficits or wounds you need to consult with a physician or licensed physical therapist. 

Other healthy gift ideas include an electric kettle with a selection of antioxidants teas. As we know sleep is important to our overall well being, how about a sound machine to help your loved one get a more restful night’s sleep? Nutritionists suggest an air fryer is a good gift as it can cook almost anything quicker and easier and uses a lot less fat. 
 
Looking for exceptional senior living in Pasadena, CA?  At MorningStar of Pasadena we offer a broad range of luxury amenities and care services to promote a healthy lifestyle. Our fitness center and exercise classes make it easy to keep moving.  In addition, residents enjoy healthy, delicious chef designed meals that are largely prepared from scratch with the freshest ingredients, locally sourced when possible. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA has to offer.

It is Possible to Grow Older Without a Significant Decline in Health

If we are lucky, we are all going to get a lot older, but experts say with a few common sense adjustments, we can live healthier, more productive lives than our grandparents or even parents. Moreover, it is worth our while to plan for a long life as mortality rates have risen from just an average age of 47 for men and women in 1900 to older adults routinely reaching their eighties, nineties and upward. 

In fact, studies report it is possible to grow older without a significant decline in health. Linda Fried, dean of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and director of the Robert Butler Columbia Aging Center, says, “The idea that living longer necessarily means enduring significant declines in health has changed in the last two decades.” She adds, “It’s possible to increase your health span as long as your life span. Some decline in health and function is inevitable. But the image that older life is about decrepitude turns out not to be right.”

Spending decades working in the field of gerontology, Harry "Rick" Moody reminds older adults that even if they are living with health challenges, they should not lose sight of the opportunity for living a meaningful and positive life. He says at 76 his hearing is bad but he compensates by wearing a hearing aid. His advice is "If you compensate, you’ll age successfully. If you don’t, you won’t age successfully.”

Strategies for healthy aging include not limiting yourself by saying you are too old, to keep learning, keep exercising and to eat a healthy diet. Staying close to family and friends, getting enough sleep and using adaptive skills to compensate for things like short-term memory loss and a general slow-down of cognitive and physical abilities are also part of the process.  

At MorningStar of Pasadena, our goal is to provide seniors the physical, intellectual, spiritual and social connections to lead productive and engaged lives. We do this through a full component of wellness programs and activities, hospitality and care services, luxury amenities and a team that feels honored to serve seniors. Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers and why MorningStar is a great place to call 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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/how-to-age-well

MorningStar’s Assisted Living in Houston

If you are looking for assisted living in Houston, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks.  For seniors who wish to maintain their independence but require assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), our 85 assisted living suites are equipped with all the modern conveniences and safety features.  Available in a variety of well-designed floor plans, suites have high-end finishes, in-suite washer/dryer, high ceilings, and large windows.  For residents’ peace of mind and safety, our suites are also equipped with emergency call systems to ensure help is there if the need arises as well as handicap-accessible bathrooms.

In assisted living, we offer various levels of support with the ADLs (we have 5 levels in all), and your care plan is determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with you and your family. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte.  However, regardless of your level of care, all assisted living residents have access to around-the-clock Care Managers as they compassionately meet your expressed (and even unexpressed) needs.   

If you are someone who finds that preparing meals has become too difficult due to your health or just not something you enjoy any more, you will be delighted to know we offer three daily meals created by our Executive Chef.  All our delicious meals are served in our beautiful dining room, restaurant-style, and prepared largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients to tempt the most particular taste buds.  
We believe our care to be different from that of other senior living communities because of the type of individuals who make up our team.  When we set out to hire a new staff member, we look for virtues such as character, kindness and selflessness as we believe these are just as important as education or experience.  Moreover, many of our “Great Hearts” come to us for a job as they love the idea of working for a company with core values that include Love, Respect, Honesty, Fairness, Goodness, and Kindness! 

Visit our website for contact information and to learn more about MorningStar’s commitment to delivering service with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.    

MorningStar at River Oaks provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, 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 assisted living Houston has to offer.

Gardening in Pots and Raised Beds

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 sure 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 MorningStar Senior Living of Kirkland, we offer independent living apartments with a private patio or balcony 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 spacious grounds with outdoor dining, sport courts, Zen garden, and raised garden beds.  Contact us for more information about the finest senior housing in Kirkland, WA.

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 housing Kirkland, WA has to offer.

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

If You Want to Remain Mobile 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 Hillsboro, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Along with our fitness center, strolling paths and indoor pool, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living in Kirkland, OR, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar’s 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. Please contact us for more information.

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

Improve the Signs of Aging on Your Face

While aging may be a sign of all the wisdom we have gained from past experiences, most of us would not mind slowing down some of the most obvious signs of our advancing years. Doctors say the aging process affects every part of our bodies including perhaps most noticeable our faces.

If you are someone in your upper years, you may have noticed these common signs of aging in your own face: an expanded forehead due to a retreated hairline, longer ears due to a growth in cartilage, or a nose that is drooping due to a weakening of connective tissue supporting the nasal cartilage. When we are young, the fat in our face is evenly distributed to plump it out. As we grow older, the volume of fat in our face clumps up and shifts downward, resulting in the skin looking loose and saggy. The jowl sags and skin loosens around the neck.  

There are several ways we can try to improve the signs of aging in our faces. Medical experts say one of the most important ways to slow down the process is to protect our skin from the damaging rays of the sun. Wearing a SPF of 30 or above every day can help prevent fine wrinkles as well as more serious problems such as skin cancer.  

Other remedies to help delay the signs of aging include cosmetic creams and serums or prescription creams such as Avita, Avage, Renova, and Retin-A, which help reduce wrinkles and so-called liver spots caused by sun exposure. Laser treatments can also help get rid of brown spots caused by sun exposure and freckles as well as red marks from broken capillaries.

Botulinum toxin injections are used to smooth out the skin by partially immobilizing the muscles that form our expression lines. Dermal fillers treat the lines caused by lost collagen and fat; and hyaluronic acid, a complex sugar found naturally in many tissues, is one of the most popular fillers. Depending on the filler used botulinum toxin injections and dermal fillers last anywhere from a couple of months up to six months.    

At MorningStar of Kirkland, our goal is to provide residents with the services and amenities that allow them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. You will find opportunities for new friendships, predictable budgeting, wellness programs, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. Along with 151 spacious apartments in a variety of floorplans, we offer luxury amenities including Executive Chef inspired meals, indoor pool, art studio, fitness center, and more. Contact us to learn more about availability and pricing for exceptional senior living in Kirkland, WA.

MorningStar of Kirkland’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest senior living Kirkland has to offer. Please schedule a tour to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

MorningStar’s Independent Living in Hillsboro, OR

While there may be a lot of choices for independent living in Hillsboro, OR, we would like to introduce you to one of the best.  MorningStar of Hillsboro offers stylish apartments for independent living for those who love the idea of carefree retirement years and plenty of time for life’s adventures.  We handle all the maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping, leaving you free to pursue your interests, explore new hobbies, travel and meet new friends. 

Our location in vibrant Hillsboro is ideal for seniors as 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 Washington County Museum, Tualatin Hills Nature Park, and Tualatin Hills Nature Center, making it easy for residents to get out and enjoy nature.  
MorningStar of Hillsboro’s stylish apartments include spacious one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans with a variety of configurations, and we are pet friendly.   Each apartment has a full kitchen, washer/dryer, handicapped-accessible bathroom, emergency call system, and private heating and cooling.  In addition, residents enjoy a private patio or balcony.

In addition, 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 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.  If all this sounds good to you, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a tour.  We look forward to hearing from you.

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 independent living Hillsboro OR offers.

Hearing Loss Causes a Range of Problems

The National Institute of Health reports approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Hearing loss causes someone a range of problems including difficulty understanding and following a doctor’s advice, responding to safety warnings, and hearing doorbells, phone calls, and alarms. Another all-too common problem is it can be hard to follow conversations with family and friends, and many start avoiding situations where they may be frustrated or embarrassed. 

Medical experts advise asking your primary care physician for a referral to an otolaryngologist, an audiologist or a hearing aid specialist. An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. They will try to determine the cause of your hearing loss and treatment options. They may refer you to an audiologist who is trained in measuring the degree of loss as well as recommend treatment, which may include fitting you for a hearing aid. There are three different types of hearing aids and it may take some trial and error to find one that works for you (most can be purchased for a trial period).  

In some cases, doctors may recommend Cochlear implants, small electronic devices surgically implanted in the inner ear that help provide a sense of sound to people who are profoundly deaf or hard-of-hearing.  Other treatment options include hearing assistive devices for your phones to amplify sound; closed circuit systems for churches or theaters; and lip or speech reading classes.   

Are you considering retirement communities in the Hillsboro, OR area? Newly opened last summer, MorningStar of Hillsboro is a vibrant 55+ community for active seniors.    We offer apartments in a variety of floor plans along with luxury amenities such as a pool, art studio, bistro and fitness center. Residents also enjoy wellness programs and activities for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Hillsboro’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR has to offer. Please contact us to learn why MorningStar is such a great place to call home.

Reduce Medical Errors by Being an Active Partner in Your Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy.  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.”  

Furthermore, studies show the most harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines.  Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis resulted in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong drugs prescribed.  

However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all of the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.  Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet and alcohol consumption.  

Medical professionals say to remember the time spent with your doctor is short, so to help prevent errors with care, come prepared to your appointment by putting in writing critical points 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 App store to help you focus on the questions you need to ask during your appointment.  

Other things to do before the appointment include putting together a list of medications you take, the dosage, and why you take it.  If you worry about forgetting something you were told during the visit, take along a family member or trusted friend.  Also ask questions and seek a second opinion if it would make you more comfortable.  Most importantly if a medical problem is not getting better, remain persistent in addressing it with your medical team.  

At MorningStar of Pasadena, our goal is to provide the best senior living Pasadena, CA offers, and we provide all the services needed to support and enhance our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. Our beautiful community has a variety of floor plans for both independent and assisted living. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood offers specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing.  

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA has to offer.

A Fun Project to do with an Elderly Parent

If an elderly parent is in a senior living community and has limited mobility, you may feel it is difficult to think of things to talk about or to do when you visit.  Scrapbooking is an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Also, it can be more than just a means to pass the time and preserve memories for seniors but can be beneficial to them as well. 

By organizing an activity such as scrapbooking, it can help to keep everyone engaged as well as inspire your loved one to start sharing stories about the “good old days.”  As you start documenting their life story, it will likely bring back memories they may have forgotten and/or ones the rest of the family knows anything about.  Along with exercising the brain with recollections of the past, scrapbooking can boost self-esteem, improve one’s dexterity and increase socialization by introducing new topics of conversation.

To get started, visit your local craft store or shop on the Internet for scrapbooking supplies that will help you create a book that is uniquely your parent’s.  Your next step is to help gather and organize the photos and materials in chronological order that will go into the scrapbook.  

If the project seems too overwhelming for your parents, have them pick a theme such as family vacations or weddings through the years, or do one that focuses on their childhood and early years.  Before you start to glue things in, take the time to layout the photos and mementos for each page; and most importantly, encourage and enjoy the stories and memories shared by your loved one.  

If you are looking for a senior living in Houston, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. Our beautiful community offers a host of amenities, care services and wellness programs as well as activities that include arts and crafts projects.  Located in the Upper Kirby District, MorningStar offers well-designed private assisted living suites as well as suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  Please see our website to learn more.

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 for more information about the finest senior living Houston offers.

Why It’s Important to See Your Doctor About Memory Loss

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also, they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition, recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

At MorningStar Senior Living of Pasadena, we offer loving memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our community is staffed by a team of individuals who understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness.  Please visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Pasadena, CA.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA has to offer.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Visit our Website to Learn More About MorningStar at River Oaks

For exceptional memory care or assisted living, Houston’s MorningStar community offers residents a home that is not only beautiful but designed to accommodate their every need.  Located in the Upper Kirby District, our community offers 85 assisted living suites, with spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Within our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 27 suites devoted to the specialized care of residents with memory impairment.  To ensure residents’ every need is met, we offer a broad range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more.     

For a deep dive into our community, our website is a good place to start as it is loaded with information including suite plans, a list of amenities, pictures, and background on the MorningStar Senior Living Company.  We explain more about what the difference is between independent living, assisted living, and memory care, along with a decision guide to help families determine if assisted living is the right choice for their loved one.  You will also find other pages discussing topics such as affordability and Aid & Attendance for veterans. 

Our website’s FAQs are handy as they go over a whole range of subjects and provide answers to many of the questions you most likely have. This includes information on how prices are structured, how the level of care is determined in assisted living, our transportation services and pet policy.  Other popular questions regard our dining program and medication management services.  

While this is just a portion of the extensive information on our site, we are also ready to answer any other questions you may have through a phone call, email, Facebook, or use our Community Assistant that lets you start a live chat.  We look forward to hearing from you and are ready to serve.  

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 for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers.

Seniors Can Benefit from Daily Stretching

Have you noticed you are no longer as flexible as you used to be and the movements of your limbs and joints feel more restricted? If it harder to do things like turning your neck to look behind you when driving or getting up from a low chair, you would probably benefit from incorporating stretches into your routine. Experts say daily stretching can make significant improvement in flexibility, the ability of the muscles and tendons to lengthen and stretch in response to movement, and allow a joint to move through its range of motion.         

In addition, being more flexible improves balance and lowers the risk for a fall. Stretching increases the range of movement in the joints, improves posture and eases muscle tension and soreness as well as increases circulation. Along with dedicated stretching exercises, seniors can increase flexibility with yoga, Pilates, swimming, tai chi, dancing and massage. 

A study on a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults reported by the Journal of Gerontology found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.”  

It is easy to do stretching exercises as they do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. However, before beginning any new exercise routine including stretching, consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level. Experts say you should warm up before stretching such as taking a walk around the block, which in itself helps to stretch muscles and tendons. Also, don’t stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension; or bounce when stretching. Typically hold the stretch for no more than 30 seconds.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we offer 85 private assisted living suites in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with resort-style amenities, care services and a range of programs including exercise classes tailored to seniors’ needs.  Visit our website for more information about the finest senior living in Houston.

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: healthline.com/health/senior-health/stretching-exercises#Benefits-of-stretching-

morelifehealth.com/articles/regaining-flexibility-guide

The Health Benefits of Yoga

While practitioners have known for centuries the calmness and peace yoga brings into their lives, science has finally caught up with real evidence of its benefits to our brains. Studies show yoga elevates levels of the brain chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GAGA), which helps regulate nerve activity and is associated with better mood and decreased anxiety. 

The Harvard Medical School journal writes, “Yoga strengthens parts of the brain that play a key role in memory, attention, awareness, thought, and language. Think of it as weightlifting for the brain.” Their evidence comes from several studies that used MRI and other brain imaging technology. Researchers found participants who practiced yoga regularly had a thicker cerebral cortex, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory, than participants who did not practice yoga. 

This could be significant because as people age, this is one of the areas in the brain that typically shrinks. As the older yoga practitioners had less shrinkage than non-practitioners, researchers say it suggests yoga can “counteract age-related declines in memory and other cognitive skills.”  

Other benefits of yoga include helping individuals lose weight, sleep better, lower blood pressure and lower blood sugar levels to improve diabetes. It also helps people gain flexibility and muscle strength around arthritic joints and reduces the pain associated with the condition.       

At MorningStar of Pasadena, our beautiful senior community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  We are committed to providing the best independent living, memory care and assisted living Pasadena, CA has to offer, which includes exemplary service to our residents to ensure their utmost comfort, wellbeing and safety.  For more information, please contact us or visit our website.  Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our community as well as our company’s history, vision, and mission.

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 independent living, memory care and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/intermediate-yoga