Trying to find thoughtful gifts for an elderly parent or grandparent can be a challenge. If they live in a senior living community that provides for many of their needs or an apartment without much extra space, they probably do not need anything that takes up a lot of room or already has it.
This is where it helps to be creative, and remember gifts of your time often mean the most to an elderly person. However, there are some good gift ideas you may not have thought about and would be appreciated by your loved one. One idea for a mom or dad who loves coffee but doesn’t want to brew a whole pot is a single-serve coffee maker. Add in a few boxes of single-serve cups to use with the maker including hot chocolate or flavored coffees in a selection they would enjoy. If they haven’t gotten a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo yet, it can make a great gift for someone with mobility challenges as it is voice operated. They can play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, control compatible smart home devices, and more. To get them started, put together a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use. Other ideas include a heated massage pillow to relieve neck and back pain or a sleep sound machine to help with a good night’s sleep. A gift basket filled with their favorite treats or products to pamper themselves with like fancy soaps, lotions and a couple of pairs of non-skid fuzzy socks are always appreciated. Another hit would be a recordable book from the grandkids. For outstanding independent or assisted living, Peoria, AZ area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our community offers a range of luxury amenities, while providing all the warmth and welcoming comforts of home. Casitas and suites are well designed to maximize space and are available in a variety of floor plans. Residents enjoy our five-star dining, salon, fitness centers, theater/chapel, bistro bar, swimming pool and scheduled transportation as well as signature wellness programs and activities. Please contact us for more information. MorningStar’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 independent living, assisted living and memory care. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.
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Senior living communities of today are designed to meet aging adults’ physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. After working hard for a lifetime, seniors are offered well-deserved carefree retirement years with just the right amount of support. For older adults who are still homeowners, senior living means saying goodbye to yard work and never-ending home maintenance. For those already in an apartment, a move to a senior living community provides an extra layer of security as well as easy interactions with people in a similar time of life. Moreover, communities such as MorningStar at Golden Ridge offer the kind of independent and assisted living seniors depend on with a broad range of services including delicious, nutritional daily meals.
Senior living also helps to eliminate loneliness and isolation that often occurs after retirement or the loss of a spouse or other close loved ones. In addition, our community provides multiple ways seniors can continue to learn and contribute. In fact, part of our mission statement is to “value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals with a commitment to creating a community that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence.” We too know that research has found intellectual stimulation to be an important step in mitigating and slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and we want to help in that effort. Remember even if you are the type of person who values their privacy, senior living gives you peace of mind knowing that people are around when you need them. Moreover, if you start out in one of our Casitas for independent living, and later, you require help with activities of daily living (ADLs) as offered in assisted living, you will have priority to available suites. The same goes for our memory care area. This is an example of the benefits of living in a community with more than one neighborhood under its roof. Please visit our website to learn more about luxury senior living in Peoria, AZ. 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 in Peoria, AZ. 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 piece of 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 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. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our community is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety. Each of our suites is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. We also recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide a full calendar of activities that includes a variety of exercise programs. For more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Peoria, AZ please visit our website or give us a call. 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 for more information about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ. Sources: cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/, agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm, alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/alzheimers-disease-increases-the-risk-of-falls/ MorningStar at Golden Ridge is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start by creating a true home for the residents in our communities, made possible by a dedicated team who understand the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, time and energy with others.
The scope of our Vision to love and honor also includes impacting the world for good through the MorningStar Foundation, and offering support to philanthropic initiatives within our local neighborhoods and around the world. One such project is our support to the people of Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We serve not only the children of the Casa Bernabé orphanage but holistically serve the impoverished area. We also are proud to support Lifewater, whose Healthy Village strategy focuses not just on their delivery of a safe water point, but on the villagers’ monitored adoption of hygiene habits in each and every home. Closer to home, MorningStar’s senior living communities are great supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association. We participate in events throughout the year including the “Longest Day Celebration” (summer solstice), which was held on June 21st this year. Our uplifting celebrations included hosting fundraisers of every sort, balloon releases, games, food and more. Additionally, our communities participate in the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” either by walking, sponsoring or hosting other creative ways to raise funds. Other efforts include doing our share by volunteering with local nonprofits to help where there is a need. If you are looking for outstanding senior living in Peoria, AZ for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our beautiful community offers 38 Casitas secluded in their own private neighborhood for independent living. For those needing help with daily activities, our 65 assisted living suites are available in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Short-term stays as well as respite care are also available. Please contact us 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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Peoria, AZ. Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."
While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL. Finally, the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, we offer 38 Casitas for independent living and 65 assisted living suites for those who need help with the activities of daily living. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 35 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 and activities. Visit our website for more information about our beautiful senior living community in Peoria, AZ. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ. Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-202112162660 As we age, it becomes more important than ever to protect our health but making decisions on how we do it can be confusing at best. One day it seems this diet is better than another and they have lots of initials such as DASH, MIND, TLC or KETO as well as Mediterranean, vegan, vegetarian and flexitarian diets. Adding to the challenge is whether we need a daily multivitamin.
While it is a good idea to get advice from your healthcare provider, it doesn’t hurt to hear what some other experts say. For example, the Harvard School of Public Health says if you eat a healthy diet, a multivitamin may have little or no benefit. A healthy diet should include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, good protein sources and healthy fats. However the National Academy of Medicine cautions some Americans may not be getting enough of specific vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and vitamin E from food sources alone. Vitamin deficiency can also occur in people with diseases like celiac, ulcerative colitis, or cystic fibrosis, which cause their digestive systems to not function properly. Others who may benefit from the addition of specific vitamins include the elderly or conditions such as pregnancy, alcoholism and taking certain medications including treating high blood pressure. Doctors say even those with diseases such as osteoporosis may only need to increase their intake of nutrients targeted toward maintaining bone health, or if that is not possible to take a supplement. If in doubt, ask your healthcare team if you should consult with a dietician. Remember to let your doctors know about any supplements you are taking in case of drug interactions with prescription medications. MorningStar at Golden Ridge is a vibrant senior living community situated on an 8.8-acre campus with exceptional architecture and award-winning design. Our residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors. Please contact us or visit our website for more information regarding our community, amenities and care services as well as to inquire about our Move-in Specials. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’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 independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ. Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour. Source: hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/multivitamin/ If you are moving from your own home into a senior living community, most likely you will want to downsize. While it can sound overwhelming to go through a whole household of stuff and whittle it down to fit into a modest sized apartment, a few tips will help.
Without question it is a lot of work and can be stressful and emotional but the Internet offers useful information from organizing experts. Most say the trick is to prepare in advance by making a plan and allowing plenty of time. Remember, if you are interested, there are companies who offer these services and will do everything from helping with the downsizing process to packing up, and moving your things to your new home. Now you are ready for the sorting out process deciding what you will bring and what to give to family, donate, or throw away. This is the hardest task as your house is full of memories but again here is where a system works. Experts say sort by rooms and simplify the task by making a “yes” pile and a “no” pile. They warn not to make a “maybe” pile as it can end up growing in size and complicate your plan. Again, remember the goal is to simplify your life and not overcrowd the new place with useless items. Things to consider are the size of your new place and its layout (get measurements). You will want furniture scaled to fit as well as room for hobbies or musical instruments that are important to you. Also consider the amenities your new place offers such as a dining service. If most of your meals will be prepared by your new community, you will just need the basics in your kitchen. If the new place has a fitness center, there is no need to bring your own equipment. MorningStar at Golden Ridge is an independent and assisted living community that offers a vibrant, active lifestyle. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, care services and a community of friends. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Visit our website for more information. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding independent living, assisted living and memory care. 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 Golden Ridge’s goal is to be the best senior living community in the Peoria, AZ area, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents. Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. And be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. 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 in Peoria, AZ. While cuddling with pets makes us comfortable and relaxed, did you know the presence of an animal can have a significant impact on our health? For seniors, pet therapy is not only a heartwarming event, but it actually can improve cardiovascular health and manage chronic conditions. Whether physical, intellectual, spiritual, or social, our Life Enrichment Teams at MorningStar Senior Living present creative ways for seniors to stay active and productive in memory care communities near you.
The physical benefits of pet therapy in assisted living and memory care are just as valuable as the emotional benefits. The act of spending time around animals like puppies, rabbits, ducklings, and kittens, can significantly lower blood pressure in older adults. Not only this, but a therapy animal’s companionship alleviates pain by encouraging our bodies to release endorphins. Endorphins are like our body’s natural painkiller. This is great news for seniors experiencing chronic pain. For seniors in memory care or assisted living, pet therapy has even more benefits for seniors. Being around therapy animals, or spending time with animals in general, reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seniors who have not had visits from their families tend to feel a level of loneliness. Thankfully, pet therapy sessions can bring these individuals joy and companionship and help them feel more connected to the world around them. Being in the presence of an animal can also reduce agitation and aggressive behavior. Seriously, when was the last time you were angry petting a puppy? Pet therapy calms seniors struggling with cognitive impairment and provides them with a nonverbal channel for connection. As you consider memory care options for your loved one, we encourage you to explore the potential of pet therapy at MorningStar at Beaverton. Please contact us today to learn more about our other memory care amenities within our senior living facility. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon, offers. MorningStar at Beaverton proudly provides the best-assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon, offers. Participating in an active lifestyle is highly beneficial for a senior with dementia or Alzheimer’s. An active lifestyle can mean anything from participating in group stretches, going on daily walks with a chaperone, working on crafts or other hobbies, and socializing. At MorningStar at Beaverton, you can find the most social senior living community Oregon has to offer seniors with memory care needs.
Engaging in activities plays a significant role in managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. While a senior struggling with memory loss may not be able to drive a car or play sports, there are still plenty of activities that will keep them feeling fulfilled and happy. With some assistance, seniors in memory care will begin to live full lives again. With our art therapies, active community, and exciting social events, our life enrichment teams are sure to provide your loved one with a vast array of activities they’ll enjoy. Understanding the individual with dementia better helps our community plan activities for them that they will enjoy. We take a person-centered approach to memory care at MorningStar Senior Living. This means getting to know your loved one’s lifestyle and routine, former activities and hobbies, career history, social interests, and even past travel excursions and significant life events. Our person-centered memory care approach makes use of your loved one’s skills that have not been forgotten. Through this technique, families can see improvements in their loved one’s behavior and overall happiness. Please contact us today to learn more about our other memory care amenities within our senior living facility. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company's history, vision, and mission, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon, offers. MorningStar at Beaverton proudly provides the best-assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of "to honor, to serve, to invest." With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Beaverton, Oregon, offers. |
At MorningStar Senior Living we strive to create a true home where you can enjoy your retirement years as carefree as possible. Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, our care team is committed to giving residents a quality of life that other senior living communities simply cannot match. Archives
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