Working in the Garden is a Great Way to Get Some Exercise and Enjoy Nature

A garden full of beautiful flowers and/or home-grown vegetables is a gratifying pastime for many seniors. Not only does it offer beauty and wholesome, nutritional food for you and those you share your bounty with, but a healthier lifestyle. 

Experts say getting outside to work in the garden is a wonderful way to get exercise and enjoy nature as well as to get a dose of vitamin D. They warn to protect your exposed skin with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher, wear light, loose clothing, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and don’t overdo it, and avoid working outside during the heat of the day. Gardening is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress and to forget about your problems, at least for a while. Overall, even a few hours a week doing something as enjoyable as gardening can strengthen muscles, improve mobility and increase flexibility.  

Growing tomatoes and lettuce or starting an herb garden is a great place for beginners to start and are appropriate plants for container gardening. For flowers, stick to those suitable for your region. Planning your garden is a big part of the fun and involves critical thinking in deciding what to plant and how to care for it.  In fact, studies show that with the physical aspect of gardening and the critical thinking skills involved in planning it, you may lessen your chance of getting Alzheimer's disease. 

Another often overlooked benefit of gardening is the social aspect. While working in your garden may be a solitary activity, gardeners enjoy getting together in the forms of clubs, visiting their local farmers market, nursery trips, or joining a community garden project.  

MorningStar of Pasadena offers stylish independent living and assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans. To ensure the comfort and wellbeing of residents, we offer resort-style amenities and services with beautiful common areas including a fitness center, bistro, theater, restaurant-style dining, and raised garden beds. Please visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Pasadena, CA.

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 Pasadena, CA offers.

Communicating with a Loved One Suffering from Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.  As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier.    

Typically, in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought.  They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words.  Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back.  

The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest.  If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions.  Your questions should be short and only require a simple yes or no answer, and again, look directly at the person.  In addition, you can demonstrate the task or give clear, step-by-step instructions.  Also use a soft voice and calm demeanor, and above all else, be patient and loving.       

In the late stages of the disease, which can last from a few weeks to several years, the Alzheimer’s Association suggests using nonverbal forms of communication.  When entering the person’s presence, always identify yourself and use the sound of your voice to convey the meaning of your words.  Experts recommend using touch, sight, sound, smell and taste to communicate, and as always, treat the individual with respect and dignity.  

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our goal is to be the best senior living Houston offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.  Please visit 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 has to offer.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

MorningStar at River Oaks Provides Individualized, Compassionate Memory Care

Along with assisted living, Houston’s MorningStar at River Oaks offers suites in a range of floor plans for the comprehensive care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our home is honored to provide individualized, compassionate care for residents from the earliest stages of the disease to the most advanced. 

The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents.  As such, it means we can encourage and support independence as much as possible and let residents move freely about their environment including an enclosed patio and courtyard.  In fact, every aspect of our community from the physical design to a range of purposeful activities, food service, security and more offers residents a comfortable, stress-free lifestyle.

MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care involves treating each of our residents with the respect and dignity they deserve.  Even before a resident joins our community, we meet with them and their family to find out as much as we can about their background and interests as well as personal preferences.  From there, we create an individualized care plan that takes all of this into consideration.

Most importantly we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts who recognize it is a privilege to serve seniors. They enjoy listening to life stories, view family photos and make sure each one feels loved, safe, and respected. All team members, regardless of position, receive training in Radiance, which is much more than a customer service program. It is how we build a culture of consistency, authenticity and genuine concern for the needs of others and guides the way we dispense service – with sincerity, warmth and depth of purpose.   

If a parent, spouse or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the MorningStar at River Oaks team is here to help. Our loving care is designed to meet their social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. Please visit our website or contact us for more information.

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

Adjust Your Attitude toward “Growing Older”

New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s. 

Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beliefs about aging can be reinforced, so that the adverse impact is not inevitable.”

The research was part of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; a long-term study based out of Baltimore. All participants had been part of the study for decades and were healthy adults free of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The survey questions focused on individuals' beliefs regarding aging. Negative views included the belief elderly people are sickly, absent-minded, have little to contribute, and are unable to concentrate well. Positive beliefs included thinking older people can lead vibrant lives and be actively engaged in society.  

Participants were also given regular MRI brain scans to check for signs of Alzheimer’s.  Those who answered questions about aging negatively were discovered to have a “greater decline in the volume of the hippocampus, a part of the brain critical for memory.” Researchers explain this is important as “the hippocampus is one of the first areas of the brain to shrink in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.”  Brain autopsies were conducted on 74 patients who died during the study. Those who were more negative about aging had more plaques and tangles in their brain, which is associated with Alzheimer’s; than their more positive counterparts. 

Becca Levy and other researchers hypothesize that Americans hold a more negative view on aging as compared to countries such as India; it could contribute to Alzheimer’s being five times more prevalent in our country. However, while positive thinking is no guarantee for good brain health, it certainly helps us feel better.    

Looking for a trusted senior living in Houston, TX? We encourage you to take a look at the MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community. Designed from top to bottom to ensure your comfort and safety, we offer an array of amenities, wellness programs and care services. See our website for information, pricing and availability.

Source: alzinfo.org/articles/research/negative-beliefs-about-aging-could-prime-the-brain-for-alzheimers

Family Members are Impacted by an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only affects the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next. 

Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. 

Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize you need more support and ask for it.  

Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. 

The newly opened MorningStar at River Oaks epitomizes the finest assisted living in Houston, TX. Our beautifully designed community also appeals to independent seniors who appreciate the idea of living a stress-free lifestyle while knowing care is there whenever they may need it. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care, including giving support to residents’ families members through this difficult journey. Visit our website to discover how MorningStar at River Oaks is a cut above other seniors living in Houston, TX.

Recently Noticed a Change in Mom or Dad?

If you noticed a change in mom or dad or another loved one over the holidays, you are not alone. Experts say since the holidays are when families spend quality time together; it is also the time many adult children realize their parents are not doing as well as they thought they were living on their own.   

Some of the most obvious signs a parent is having problems caring for him or herself is an unintended loss of weight, change in grooming habits or signs of a fall. The ADLs or Activities of Daily Living are used by experts to evaluate the needs of a person and include personal care such as bathing, dressing and toileting as well as transferring (ability to get in and out of bed, continence and eating. 

Other important signs a person is no longer doing well on their own and could benefit from some sort of assistance are based on what experts call the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These include things like paying bills, taking care of their home, preparing and cooking meals, being able to get out of the home, and socializing. 

At senior living communities like MorningStar of Pasadena, we offer both independent living and assisted living. Our assisted living is designed to provide the services residents need to maintain their independence with 24/7 care managers, medication management, access to licensed nurses and more. Moreover all residents are treated to a delicious, healthy restaurant-style dining service, wellness program and activities, and sponsored community outings and events. 

If you are looking for respite care, (short recuperative stays) or would like to sample community living with a trial stay from one week up to a full month, please contact us for availability. We invite you to visit our website for contact info, a full list of amenities, floorplans, photos, map and more on senior living Pasadena, CA families can trust. We look forward to welcoming you to our MorningStar family.

The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

While we always hear about omega-3 fatty acids and how they are good for us, just what are they? The experts explain omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fat also called “healthy fats.” Research suggests they play a role in protecting us from heart disease and dementia. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) omega-3s are “the primary polyunsaturated fats in brain cell membranes and have been popularized and successfully marketed as dietary supplements.” 

DHA, EPA and DPA omega-3 fatty acids are synthesized by marine organisms such as algae and phytoplankton. They are then consumed by fish, aquatic mammals and crustaceans where the acids are stored in body fat, liver and blubber. When we consume foods from the sea such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, liver of lean white fish and fish oils, we get the benefits of the omega-3s stored in their bodies.  

Another type of omega-3 is ALA derived from plant sources and is the most readily used by the body to create all other types of omega-3 fatty acids. ALAs are found in nuts and seeds like flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts as well as oils like canola and soybean. Experts say although ALA can create all forms of omega-3 fatty acids, “the conversion of ALA to DHA and EPA is poor, so they recommend a dietary intake of a combination of foods rich in ALA, EPA, and DHA.

Along with reducing the risk for heart disease, The Medical News Today (MNT) reports other evidence-based benefits of omega-3s include exerting anti-inflammatory effects throughout the human body, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and improving tolerance to cancer treatments. A study also showed fish oil supplementations protected against major depressive disorders in person between the ages of 15 to 25.

The MorningStar of Pasadena senior living community offers 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 along with a broad range of amenities and services to meet seniors’ needs including a healthy, delicious dining service. Each smartly-designed apartment is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Visit our website for more information on trusted independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/omega-3-what-it-can-and-cant-do-for-health#Omega-3-fats:-What-they-can-do-for-health

It is Not Too Late to Get Your Annual Flu Shot

Medicare and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention remind everyone that even if they haven’t gotten an annual flu shot yet, it is not too late. The flu season typically starts in mid-October, peaks in winter and continues through late spring. Medicare says the shot is covered for people with Medicare from providers that accept Medicare or your Medicare plan; and it is safe to get your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. 

So far the CDC reports cases of Influenza (flu) are currently low nationally, but detect a slow but steady increase in parts of the U.S. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses infecting the nose, throat, and lungs. Older people, young children, and those with certain health conditions are at higher risk of serious complications. The two main types of influenza are known as viruses A and B, and are responsible for our seasonal flu epidemics each year.

The common cold and the flu are both respiratory illnesses but caused by different viruses. There are ways to distinguish between the two including how your symptoms come on. A cold starts gradually and the flu hits you fast. It is rare to have a fever with a cold but typical in the case of the flu. Aches and chills are common with the flu but not so much with a cold. You will most likely feel fatigued and weak with the flu. Chest discomfort is another common sign of the flu and mild to moderate in a cold. Stuffy noses and sore throats are typical cold symptoms, while headaches are rare but frequent with the flu. As the flu can have serious consequences, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. 

At the MorningStar of Pasadena 55+ community, we offer independent living as well as trusted assisted living to ensure residents get the help they need when they need it. Our goal is to provide all of the services, amenities and wellness programs to give seniors carefree retirement years. Please visit our website to learn about availability and pricing at the finest senior living Pasadena, CA offers.