5 TIPS FOR WINTER DRIVING

The result of heavy snowfall and below-freezing temperatures is the ideal recipe for poor visibility and slippery roads. When it snows, reports of car accidents and backed-up roads can deter the most determined motorist from running errands or even heading off to work. With more than 150,000 motor vehicle collisions attributed each year to ice and snow-packed roads, it is important to learn how to drive when Old Man Winter strikes at our senior living center in Denver, Colorado.

Let’s take a quick look at five tips for winter driving that keep you safe, as well as keep other motorists safe.

Wait a Day

The first tip makes the other tips on this list moot points: Drive in winter weather only if it is necessary. The National Weather Service typically alerts residents of Denver of an incoming snowstorm at least one day in advance of its arrival. This means you have plenty of time to get what you need to ride a snowstorm out. Local news stations keep Denver residents updated on road conditions.

Give the snow plow crews the roads to themselves for 24 hours to clear the streets for the residents of retirement communities in Denver.

Know Your Route

If you have to get out to run errands during winter weather, know how you plan to get around the area near our assisted living facility in Denver. Road crews remove snow from the busier streets and highways first, before tackling the mess left behind by Mother Nature on secondary roads. Plan your route, as well as the time of day when you plan to run errands, and you should be able to get around without any issues arising.

Clear Your Vehicle

Clearing the entire vehicle prevents snow from obscuring your view of the road. This involves more than running the windshield wiper for a few seconds. You also must clear the roof of your car, as well as lights, mirrors, and windows. Some municipalities make it against the law to drive a snow-covered car, but the more relevant issue is your safety and the safety of other motorists who share the roads and highways with you.

Warming up your car is an effective way to expedite the snow removal process.

Invest in Winter Tires

Also referred to as snow tires, winter tires provide the traction required for a motor vehicle to move through ice and snow. Winter tires are especially effective at helping motorists remain in control of their vehicles, as well as move through deep snow. If you venture into the mountains, Colorado law mandates that motorists of all types of vehicles must have chains put on each tire or alternate traction devices (ATD) on two or more tires.

Drive Smart

The rules that apply to driving a motor vehicle take on more significance while driving in winter weather. Put more space between you and other vehicles than the space you create under normal road conditions. Slow down, particularly when navigating highways such as Interstate 25 and Interstate 70. Take curves much slower than you usually traverse them. The most important tip for driving smart in snow involves turning off or putting away all electronic devices.Our senior living center in Denver, CO offers a shuttle service for residents who need to run errands, such as buying groceries. We offer shuttle service during the worst weather as well, with highly-trained drivers ready to tackle ice and snow. Find out more about how you can get around Denver while living at our assisted living facility by scheduling a tour today.

MOST POPULAR SOLO GAMES FOR SENIORS

One of the most common reasons why older adults move into senior living centers in Denver is to socialize with other seniors in a safe environment. Retirement communities in Denver such as MorningStar at Observatory Park organize an activities calendar every month to keep residents mentally and physically active. However, residents at our assisted living facility in Denver, Colorado might find that on rare occasions they do not get the opportunity to interact with fellow residents in a group setting. When that happens, it pays off to know how to play the most popular solo games for seniors.

Solitaire

Solitaire, which is also referred to as Klondike and Patience, is a wildly popular card game that has become a staple in computer gaming. This solo game is more than a great way to pass the time on a slow day. It also helps improve planning, attention, and concentration skills. All you need is a deck of cards or access to a personal computer, both of which our senior living center in Denver, Colorado makes available for residents.

Civilization

Since the first version was released in 1991, Civilization has challenged players of all ages to achieve world domination. For more than 30 years, Civilization has transformed into different, more complex versions to challenge the most accomplished players. You need access to a personal computer to enjoy this popular solo game. Once you sit down to start a game of Civilization, you should find that time flies by quickly.

Sudoku

The classic puzzle game based on numbers is renowned for hooking people to play it for hours at a time. Sudoku is all about placing the numbers one through nine in a grid measuring nine by nine spaces. However, you cannot repeat the same row, column, or three-by-three box. You can find this timeless game in newspapers and puzzle books to help improve your logic and problem-solving skills.

Friday

Assuming the role of Robinson Crusoe’s helper, Friday represents a deck-building card game in which you try to survive, even thrive on a deserted island. The challenge of the popular solo game is to make correct, rapid-fire decisions within a short period. One of the most important skills learned by playing this popular solo game is overcoming a wide variety of difficult challenges. Although more complex than other popular solo games, Friday is ideal for older adults who want to enhance their cognitive skills.

Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

Have you ever wondered what it is like playing the role of a World-class detective such as Sherlock Holmes? You can find out about the reality of playing detective by mastering this popular solo game. Some of the detective work foisted upon you includes interviewing witnesses, gathering physical evidence, and unveiling the mysteries of the world. The mental stimulation generated by Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective is perfect for older adults to pass the time on a rainy day.

Stay Active at Our Senior Living Center in Denver

You get many opportunities to stay active at our assisted living facility in Denver. Whenever you cannot find the time to engage with other residents in a group encounter, you can instead remain mentally active by playing one of the most popular solo games for seniors. Stop by MorningStar at Observatory Park to learn more about our monthly activities calendar.

5 BENEFITS OF MAKING FRIENDS AT A SENIOR LIVING CENTER IN DENVER

It is one of the most daunting events that we experience in our lives. We are talking about relocation. Everything from planning a move to trying to fit in a new neighborhood can cause us to toss and turn throughout many restless nights. Although moving is often hard on all of us, it is especially hard on older adults who transition from independent living to an assisted living facility in Denver. Leaving behind the familiar for the unfamiliar can trigger numerous bouts of loneliness.

According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the risk of becoming lonely increases as we grow older. Children leave the nest, which frequently creates a deep void that is difficult to fill. Loneliness produces severe negative side effects that impact our mental and physical health. In another study sponsored by Science Daily, people who lose their partners feel less lonely when they begin to participate in activities held outside the home.

According to research performed by the National Institute of Health (NIH) people who suffer from the symptoms of loneliness have a 45 percent greater risk of dying, as well as a 59 percent greater risk of enduring mental and/or physical ailments. Let’s review the benefits of making friends at retirement communities in Denver, Colorado.

Enhanced Mental Health

Living a lonely life turns a once active brain dormant. The result is a decline in the ability of the brain to make connections with other people. The most advanced technologies cannot replace human connections. A computer cannot help you enjoy the positive self-esteem that comes with playing a friendly game of checkers to yelling out bingo numbers among a large group of fellow residents at a senior living center in Denver.

Improved Physical Health

Just as sitting around in a room all day causes the brain to stagnate, doing the same thing also quickly leads to a decline in physical health. At our assisted living facility in Denver, we offer countless physical activities that keep the body working like a well-oiled machine. Participating in physical activities with other residents reduces the risk of developing cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.

Expands Your Professional Network

When you lived an independent life, you depended on friends and family members to guide you through different tasks and obligations. Making friends at a senior living center in Denver allows you to develop friendships that help you build your professional network. For example, you might receive a recommendation from a resident to see a physician who can help alleviate arthritic pain.

Prevent Dementia

The mental health benefits of making friends at retirement communities in Denver are more than feeling good about yourself. Interacting with other residents also strengthens your cognitive abilities. Whether you and your new friends work together on a puzzle or answer the questions posed by a trivia game, you can expect to keep your mind sharp.

Gain Purpose

Growing friendships with other residents at an assisted living facility in Denver helps you gain purpose. Without purpose, you start to live life like a ship that does not have a rudder. You simply go through the motions of life. Building friendships gets you excited about what you have planned for the next day at our senior living center.

Building friendships helps you create an active lifestyle at our assisted living facility in Denver, CO. Discover why MorningStar at Observatory Park receives highly positive reviews from residents by scheduling a tour today.

4 TIPS FOR STAYING WARM WHEN CAMPING IN COLD WEATHER

Many factors attract residents to our senior living center in Denver, Colorado, but one factor is the most cited. Our residents love having easy access to some of the most popular types of outdoor recreational activities. At the top of the list is camping, which is a recreational activity that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Although camping is one of the most popular types of outdoor recreational activities, you have to prepare for different weather elements. This is especially true for dealing with the sudden weather changes that transpire in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

If you decide to camp during winter or even other times of the year when a blast of cold air passes through the Rocky Mountains, you should prepare for the frosty weather conditions by following four effective tips.

Dress in Layers

Dressing in layers is an effective strategy for assuming complete control over the regulation of your body temperature. On a cold winter day while camping near our assisted living facility in Denver, a standard layered approach to preparing for cold weather is to start with a base layer such as a t-shirt, and then add a flannel shirt, sweater, and finally, an insulated shell jacket. Dressing in layers allows you to shed one or more layers if the weather starts to heat up as the day progresses.

Change Wet Clothes for Dry Apparel

If you get drenched by a sudden mountain rainstorm or feel perspiration running across your body, immediately changing clothes helps regulate your body temperature. Even if you wear what marketers call “100 moisture resistant” apparel, make changing into dry clothes the first item on your to-do list when you set up camp for the night. Leaving damp clothes on for too long can lead to the onset of the dangerous symptoms that define hypothermia. Plus, it makes you feel uncomfortable.

Sleep on Two Pads

Camping often invokes the saying “Two are better than one.” When it comes to your tent, two sleeping pads are better than one sleeping pad. Two sleeping pads double the insulation and generate much more warmth for the body to enjoy a good night’s rest. A sleeping pad’s warmth is measured by an R-value, which means the higher the R-value, the better. One option is to sleep on a winter-grade sleeping pad with reflective fabric that sits on top of a closed-cell foam pad that also has a reflective surface.

Keep the Calories

Your body acts as the last barrier of defense to prevent cold weather from making a camping trip uncomfortable at best and dangerous at worst. To replenish the calories lost to rigorous physical exertion, you need to eat foods that generate at least the amount of calories burned. You keep your internal furnace cranked up throughout the day by consuming high-calorie meals at least three times, with snacking high-carbohydrate foods mixed in between meals. Make sure you also stay thoroughly hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Enjoy Camping at Our Assisted Living Center in Denver

MorningStar at Observatory Park organizes monthly activities calendars that include outdoor recreational events such as camping. Wearing heated boots, gloves, and hand warmers can punctuate the strategy that you follow for staying warm when camping in cold weather. Discover why our senior living facility in Denver is a great new home for residents who love outdoor recreational activities by scheduling a tour of our facility.

Addressing Loneliness and Isolation in Senior Years

Loneliness and social isolation are significant issues that can affect the health and well-being of seniors. Facilities like senior living Everett, assisted living Arlington, and assisted living Lynnwood are deeply focused on creating environments and programs that mitigate these feelings by fostering community and connection among residents.

Importance of Social Interaction

Social interactions play a crucial role in improving seniors’ quality of life. Regular social contact can help reduce the risk of several physical and mental health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Senior communities actively promote social engagement through various group activities, ensuring that residents have numerous opportunities to interact.

Activities and Programs

To combat loneliness and isolation, senior living facilities offer a wide range of activities that encourage social interaction. These can include fitness classes, hobby groups like knitting or gardening clubs, movie nights, and cultural outings. Assisted living Lynnwood, for example, might have a calendar full of events that cater to the diverse interests of its residents, ensuring that everyone can find something enjoyable to participate in.

Community Spaces

Designing community spaces that are inviting and comfortable encourages residents to leave their private living areas and engage with others. Facilities such as assisted living Arlington often include common areas like libraries, cafes, and lounges where residents can casually meet and enjoy each other’s company. These spaces are vital for spontaneous social interactions that are key to building a community.

Technology and Connectivity

In today’s digital age, technology also plays a pivotal role in keeping seniors connected not only with their peers within the community but also with family and friends who may not be nearby. Senior living Everett, for instance, might provide training sessions on how to use social media, video call platforms, and other online tools that help residents stay in touch with loved ones.

Volunteer Opportunities

Participating in volunteer work can provide seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, significantly reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Many senior communities partner with local schools, nonprofits, and other organizations to offer volunteer opportunities that allow residents to feel connected to the broader community.

Support Services

Recognizing that some residents may need additional help, senior living communities often provide support services such as counseling and support groups. These services are essential for residents who may be dealing with grief, depression, or severe isolation. By addressing these issues directly, communities can help individuals regain their sense of community and improve their overall mental health.

By implementing these strategies, facilities like senior living Everett, assisted living Arlington, and assisted living Lynnwood actively work to reduce loneliness and isolation among their residents. The goal is not only to provide a safe and healthy living environment but also to create a vibrant community where seniors can connect, share, and enjoy their years with companionship and support.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR VISITING GARDEN OF THE GODS

Residents of our senior living center in Denver have many options when it comes to spending a day among nature’s most popular attractions. Rocky National Park is just a short drive from our assisted living facility in Denver, and another wildly popular day trip destination sits less than a two-hour drive south of retirement communities in Denver.

We are talking about Garden of the Gods, which represents one of the most impressive natural attractions in the United States that is located in Colorado Springs.  Massive red rock formations form columns that look like they are reaching for the sky. The views inside the 1,367-acre natural attraction are some of the most spectacular of any other view in the State of Colorado. Open to the public throughout the year, here is what you need to know for visiting the Garden of the Gods.

Hiking

Although you can find spectacular views from the comfort of your car, experiencing the Garden of the Gods is best done on foot. More than 15 miles of trails run through the massive red rock formations, with most of the trails offering short excursions that do not take a lot out of you physically. For example, the Perkins Central Garden Trail is an easy, 1.5 round-trip trail that provides a concrete pathway for easy navigation. The family-friendly trail also does not gain elevation as you absorb your natural surroundings. For a more challenging hike, the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail is a three-mile round-trip, with an elevation gain of more than 250 feet.

Other Outdoor Activities

The Garden of the Gods offers much more than trails where you get to traverse among the massive red rock formations. Front Range Climbing schedules rock climbing trips every 30 minutes for the more adventurous visitors. You have the option to rent a bicycle to ride on the designated paths established by park management. One of the most popular park events is the annual Starlight Spectacular bike ride that takes place at night. Academy Riding Stables organizes horseback riding trips that take place on horse-friendly trails. Several educational classes present information that ranges from the park’s history to nature-specific topics.

Planning a Visit

The first place to visit when you arrive at the Garden of the Gods is the Visitor & Nature Center, which includes shopping, interactive exhibits, and a movie theater. The park is open every day of the year from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m. Parking spaces fill up quickly, which means you should arrive early and ride one of the complimentary shuttles that run from early June through the Labor Day weekend. Although you cannot camp inside Garden of the Gods, several camping spots located nearby give you a convenient place to call home while you visit the park. Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers full-service camping that includes showers and a laundry facility. Colorado Springs is renowned for its lodging options, such as the Broadmoor Hotel and Great Wolf Lodge.

Explore Colorado While Living at MorningStar-Observatory Park

One of the primary reasons why seniors move into retirement communities in Denver, Colorado is the numerous choices available to soak in the natural beauty present in the Rocky Mountain State. At our senior living center in Denver, our staff organizes several day trips throughout the year that provide residents with up-close views of the state’s natural wonders such as the Garden of the Gods. Learn more by scheduling a tour of our assisted living facility in Denver, CO.

FOOT CARE TIPS FOR HIKERS

At our senior living center in Denver, Colorado, we organize a busy activities calendar to keep residents active. One of the activities that we schedule is organizing day hikes to soak in the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The City of Denver also has created hundreds of miles of trails within city limits.

When you hike, you need to take several steps to maximize the enjoyment of viewing your surroundings. One of the most important steps to take involves foot care tips for hikers.

Protect Against Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis represents an injury that develops from over-exertion. The annoying initial pain can turn into a debilitating injury that slows down or even ends the hiking season. It is an inflammation in the ligament that runs across the bottom of both feet. At our assisted living facility in Denver, we encourage residents to take it easy during the first few hikes of the season to build up strength in both feet, as well as stamina throughout the entire body. 

Prevent Blisters

Blisters can develop all over the foot caused by friction generated with hiking shoes. However, blisters most often develop between two or more toes. You can prevent blisters by first cutting your toenails short to avoid toes scraping against a hiking boot to account for large toenails. If you hike using a certain gait that causes friction between two or more toes, place a barrier such as a band-aid between the toes to cushion the friction generated while you hike.

Use Insoles

Insoles offer two significant health benefits for hikers. First, they provide sufficient cushion for both feet to absorb blows. Second, they help keep both feet stable even when you hike over rugged terrain. Wearing two socks on each foot also provides the cushion you need to prevent the feet from sustaining strong impacts.

Sock Material Matters

Wool socks represent the most popular choice for hikers of all ages, but you need to select the right material to maximize the comfort and health benefits. Hiking socks designed with Merino wool do the best job of preventing the development of blisters, as well as providing superior breathability. The last thing you want is to hike with damp feet. If you plan to hike in wet conditions, neoprene or Merino wool socks should keep both feet dry. You also should change into dry socks whenever you feel your feet turning damp.

Break in Hiking Shoes

When you shop for hiking shoes at a store, you probably try on different pairs and then walk around the store to assess comfort and stability. However, you need much more time to break in a pair of hiking shoes to enhance comfort and stability when you are out on a trail. Break in a pair of hiking shoes by wearing them for a couple of hikes on a trail defined as “easy.”

Enjoy the Activities Calendar at MorningStar-Observatory Park

Retirement communities all over Denver boast about their activities calendar. Nonetheless, we are proud of the diverse nature of the activities calendar at our senior living center in Denver. We schedule organized day hikes, as well as encourage residents to take advantage of the natural splendor nearby by going on hikes together.

ICE SKATING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Denver turns into a winter wonderland during the three coldest months of the year. Skiers head into the mountains to try one of the many slopes at popular resorts close to the Mile High City. Many Denver residents head to the nearest city park to test their sleds on challenging inclines. One of the most popular types of winter activities is ice skating, whether it is indoors at a recreational facility or outside at a city-supported center.

Ice skating is a fun physical activity for the residents of retirement communities in Denver. It represents an effective aerobic exercise that gets the heart pumping, as well as strengthens your bones and muscles. If you want to participate in this fun physical activity, but do not have much experience moving about on a pair of skates, let’s look at a few ice skating tips for beginners.

Wear Comfortable Skates

Since you are not competing in the World Championship of Ice Skating, you should place much more emphasis on wearing skates that feel comfortable. Try on different pairs of skates to find the pair that provides plenty of ankle support, while at the same time giving you enough room to wriggle your toes. Make sure to lace up each pair of skates that you try on to get the full effect of wearing ice skates.

Wear Layers

You have three factors to consider when choosing the right clothes to wear during an ice skating session: Warmth, mobility, and protection. If you plan to ice skate outdoors, wearing layers of clothes to stay warm should be your priority. On the other hand, an indoor ice skating session should turn your attention to clothes that provide you with more mobility. Regardless of where you plan to ice skate, choose layers of clothes that protect you against inevitable falls.

Slow and Steady

Remember that you are not competing in a race. Avoid the temptation to move faster than your skill level can handle. Ice skating too fast can lead to a fall that produces one or more painful injuries, such as a bruised hip or sprained knee. Start your session by holding on to the rail while you glide at a safe pace before you gain enough confidence to release your grip and pick up more speed. You have to master basic moves before attempting more challenging moves as you navigate around the ice.

Keep Your Focus Forward

A key tip for ice skating beginners involves keeping their focus on what is in front of them. Looking down at your skates and/or at other skaters on your side can make you lose your balance. Remaining focused on things in front of you helps you avoid other skaters. It also allows you to remain aware of your surroundings in case you tumble onto the ice. Once you master focusing on forward motion, you should be able to get used to pushing off with your skates and moving forward.

Get Loose

It is important to stretch your legs before an ice skating session. This allows your legs to get familiar with different motions that engage muscles that you typically do not use. Stretching your legs should help prevent hamstring injuries, as well as enhance your mobility on the ice. You also need to get loose mentally, which means slowing down the brain to gain control of your emotions.As a highly-rated senior living center in Denver, CO, MorningStar at Observatory Park offers a wide variety of activities that help residents enjoy robust mental and physical health. Learn more by scheduling a tour today of our assisted living facility in Denver.

Gardening Tips for Seniors: Cultivating Joy and Wellbeing

Gardening is a cherished activity among many seniors, offering a blend of physical activity, mental engagement, and the joy of nurturing life. For residents of senior living Everett, assisted living Arlington, and assisted living Lynnwood, gardening can be a source of great satisfaction and well-being. Here are some gardening tips tailored for seniors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience while cultivating a green oasis.

1. Embrace Raised Beds and Container Gardening

Raised garden beds and container gardening are excellent options for seniors. These methods eliminate the need to bend or kneel, reducing strain on the back and knees. In assisted living Lynnwood communities, residents can easily access their plants, tending to them comfortably while standing or sitting.

2. Choose Low-Maintenance Plants

Selecting plants that require minimal care is key for a senior-friendly garden. Perennials, succulents, and certain herbs and vegetables are ideal choices, offering the beauty and satisfaction of gardening with less frequent watering and care. Senior living Everett often provides gardening workshops to help residents choose the best plants for their skill level and physical capabilities.

3. Utilize Ergonomic Tools

Ergonomic gardening tools, designed to reduce effort and strain, are particularly beneficial for seniors. Tools with long handles, padded grips, and lightweight materials make gardening tasks easier and more comfortable. Assisted living Arlington can offer recommendations for the best tools to use, ensuring gardening remains a pleasure, not a chore.

4. Practice Safe Gardening Habits

Safety is paramount when gardening. Wearing gloves protects against cuts and soil-borne pathogens, while sunscreen and hats shield skin from harmful UV rays. Communities in assisted living Lynnwood encourage these safe gardening practices, promoting health and wellbeing among their gardening enthusiasts.

5. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warm days. Seniors should take regular breaks to rest and drink water, preventing overexertion. In senior living Everett, communal gardens are often equipped with benches and shaded areas, allowing residents to rest and enjoy the beauty of their environment.

6. Enjoy the Social Aspect of Gardening

Gardening can be a social activity, offering opportunities to connect with fellow gardeners. Whether sharing tips, swapping seeds, or simply enjoying the beauty of the garden together, the camaraderie among gardeners in assisted living Arlington enriches the gardening experience.

Gardening offers numerous benefits for seniors, from enhancing physical health to promoting emotional wellbeing. By following these tips, residents of senior living Everett, assisted living Arlington, and assisted living Lynnwood can enjoy the pleasures of gardening, reaping the rewards of their labor in the form of beautiful plants and a sense of accomplishment. Cultivating a garden, big or small, brings joy and wellbeing into the lives of seniors, making their golden years even more vibrant.

WHY EXERCISE MATTERS FOR SENIORS

At our senior living facility in Denver, we make maintaining robust health for residents a top priority. Our caregivers follow a preventive strategy, such as ensuring residents receive regular checkups, as well as follow a nutritious diet. One preventive strategy does not receive as much hype, but it should. The preventive strategy is about adhering to an exercise regimen.

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining the robust health of every adult, but it is especially relevant for older adults. Let’s look at the reasons why exercise matters for seniors living at an assisted living facility in Denver.

Bolster the Immune System

It is not a secret that our immune systems weaken as we grow older. We tend to contract colds much easier than adults several years younger. Research indicates that moderate exercise can substantially bolster the strength of the immune system. This is especially true for preventing the development of acute respiratory infections.

Mitigate Arthritis Pain

The pain generated by a disease such as osteoarthritis can make it difficult to hold a utensil. Regular exercise can relieve the pain associated with arthritis. Low-impact aerobic exercises can take the pressure off aching and inflamed joints by helping muscles gain strength. Physical activities help older adults enjoy a full range of motions to reduce joint stiffness.

Strengthen Bones

We lose bone density as we grow older, but strength training can counteract bone density loss and possibly even reverse it. Stronger bones help you do a better job of remaining balanced while you walk, which dramatically decreases the risk of falls. You also maintain strong bones to prevent the risk of a fracture that results from a fall.

Prevent Chronic Health Issues

Regular exercise is a proven strategy for fending off the development of chronic diseases. Studies demonstrate physical activity reduces the risk of contracting diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. The results of a study released in 2017 by the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease discovered moderate exercise is a potent weapon to fight against cognitive decline.

Boost Energy Levels

It seems counterintuitive, but moderate-intensity exercises can help generate more energy. The body works to restore the energy depleted after exercises like hiking and cycling. Combined with a nutritious diet, regular exercise can increase the amount of time that you exercise, as well as generate the level of energy required to complete certain strenuous tasks.

Enhance Mental Health

Exercise is not just for boosting physical health. A regular exercise routine also represents an effective way to improve mental health. The brain fires more neurotransmitters at a much faster rate, which produces a level of clarity that enhances morale. Low-impact exercises such as yoga that incorporate mindfulness techniques help boost mental health. Research also shows regular exercise can improve memory and help you solve more difficult mental challenges.

The Bottom Line: Stay Active

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults 65 years and older complete at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. As one of the highest-rated retirement communities in Denver, MorningStar at Observatory Park encourages residents to stay active. We offer a wide variety of activities that boost both mental and physical health. Learn more by scheduling a tour of our senior living center in Denver, Colorado.

3 COMMON SAFETY ISSUES FACED BY RESIDENTS AT AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

It is one of the most difficult decisions of your life. After you make the tough decision to move a loved one into a senior living center in Denver, Colorado, the next decision is about as tough to make. That decision revolves around finding the right assisted living facility in Denver. With many retirement communities to choose from, which one makes the grade as the next home for a loved one? Choosing the best of the retirement communities in Denver requires you to consider factors such as amenities, dining options, and activities calendar. You also have to consider the safety issues that can cause harm to your loved one.

Let’s look at five common safety issues faced by residents at an assisted living facility.

Slip and Fall Accidents

A slip and fall accident is lurking around every corner at a senior living center. As the most common type of accident at assisted living facilities, a slip and fall incident can cause serious injuries. This is especially true for older adults who become more vulnerable to sustaining slip and fall injuries such as lacerations, brain trauma, and broken bones. Confirm the presence of handrails throughout an assisted living facility. Other helpful tools to prevent slip and fall accidents include wheelchairs and walking aids. Check the common areas to ensure there are not any obstructions that can force a loved one to fall. Helpful caregivers who provide walking support also play a role in minimizing slip and fall accidents.

Poor Safety Alert System

Despite their devotion to protecting residents, caregivers cannot watch over residents 24 hours a day. This means it is essential that all of the retirement communities in Denver on your shortlist have installed a comprehensive safety alert system. If a resident experiences an accident and a facility does not have an adequate safety alert system, the resident runs the risk of developing severe health consequences due to the significant time lapse between an accident and receiving medical care. A comprehensive safety alert system should provide easy access to communication devices up and down every hallway in common areas, as well as inside the apartment of every resident.

Transportation Accidents

Residents at retirement communities in Denver often need to leave a facility to take care of errands. Meeting appointments, receiving healthcare, and spending time with family members require residents to ride in a van operated by a properly credentialed driver employed by an assisted living facility. Not only should assisted facility drivers acquire the proper driving credentials, but the vans used to take residents around town must be equipped with the right safety equipment. The vans should provide easy access to prevent harm to any of the passengers. Make sure the van at a senior living center in Denver is designed for residents with mobility issues. This includes the installation of handrails, as well as creating plenty of space between the seats.

Resident Safety Comes First At MorningStar-Observatory Park

MorningStar at Observatory Park has earned the reputation as one of the best senior living centers in Denver, CO. Many factors play a role in helping our assisted facility receive positive reviews on sites such as Yelp and Google. The most important factor is our commitment to creating the safest living environment for residents. Find out more by scheduling a tour today.

HOW TO STAY BUSY ON A SNOWY DAY

If you have heard the phrase, “If you aren’t happy with the weather, just wait a few minutes for it to change,” the first place you probably think of that matches the meaning of the phrase is the city of Denver, Colorado. Because of the topography of the area combined with Denver’s location, the weather often changes without giving any advanced notice. This is especially true during winter, when a seemingly calm winter day can change on a dime to unleash a raging snowstorm.

Snow evokes many emotions, from stirring the adventurous in us for a ski day to relaxing in front of a roaring fire to riding out a snowy weather event.  At our senior living center in Denver Colorado, we help residents learn how to stay busy on a snowy day.

Join an Online Book Club

Before the Internet, reading on a snowy day involved picking out a book and reading in quiet solitude. An Internet connection changes how you read on a snowy day by getting you in touch with other avid readers located around the world. Joining an online book club not only introduces you to exciting new books, but also allows you to interact with other people that you would otherwise never get to meet.

Call Friends and Family Members

When you feel lonely and isolated, such as what can happen during a classic Colorado snowstorm, the antidote for your feelings is getting out your phone and connecting with close friends and family members. The Internet once again acts as the conduit that allows you to interact with other people. Schedule a time for everyone to join a video call to enhance your communication by seeing smiles and hearing laughter.

Be Active

Staying active is the most effective way to beat the doldrums that develop due to a snowstorm. At our assisted living facility in Denver, CO, we offer residents access to a world-class fitness center to help them burn off calories during a snowy day. However, physical activity is not the only type of activity you should engage in to maintain robust health. Staying active mentally also is important, which you can achieve by playing games like chess or completing crossword puzzles with the help of other residents.

Listen to a Podcast

The Internet saves the day one more time by giving you a way to listen to a podcast. Podcasts have morphed into one of, if not the most popular forms of communication due to the low costs associated with producing each show. As the new alternative to talk radio shows, podcasts can help you learn a new skill or discover something that you never knew existed. Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Podcasts represent three of the most popular podcast mediums.

Organize Your Life

You have planned to do it many times, but something always has come up to divert your attention. We are talking about organizing your life by starting in your apartment at our assisted living facility in Denver. A snowy day represents the ideal day to declutter your life, while at the same time giving your apartment a thorough makeover. Make sure to lift what you can handle to avoid sustaining a back injury.As one of the most popular retirement communities in Denver, Colorado, MorningStar at Observatory Park offers residents a wide variety of ways to stay busy on a snowy day. Find out more by scheduling a tour today of our senior living center in Denver.

6 HIKING TIPS FOR SENIORS

Getting away for a day from our assisted living facility in Lynnwood, Washington by taking a hike is an excellent way to maintain robust health. Hiking is the ultimate aerobic exercise by circulating a healthy blood flow that benefits the heart. Your muscles also get a good workout, from your ankles up to the shoulders. Whether you get away for a day to hike in Olympic National Park or one of the many municipal parks in greater Seattle, you should follow six hiking tips for seniors.

Get a Thumbs Up From Your Doctor

Our bodies do not respond as quickly to physical exertion when we reach retirement age. Before you participate in any type of strenuous physical activity, check with your doctor to ensure you are clear to optimize your enjoyment. Not only does your doctor assess your health status, but your doctor also can recommend the level of exercise that is most appropriate for you.

Hiking can be a dangerous physical activity if you do not account for your health status.

Be Prepared

After you get the green light from your doctor, start preparing for your hike. Work yourself into excellent physical condition by completing shorter trails until you can master longer trails that move over different levels of terrain. Not only do your muscles need to build up tolerance to the uptick in physical stress, but your feet also need to become acclimated to a longer hike. Stretch before you begin the hike, as well as bring along all of the gear that makes the hike easier to take.

Choose the Right Trail

You should never feel pressured to hike beyond your comfort zone. Hiking is not a race, as well as a test of endurance. It is all about soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. Several factors play a role in choosing the right trail, starting with picking the most reasonable distance. You also have to consider elevation, especially if you plan to hike a mountain trail located inside Olympic National Park. The terrain also should match your comfort level.

Wear the Right Apparel

Clothing can make or break your hike. Dress in layers to account for different temperatures that vary because of height and weather conditions. You can take off a coat when you climb a hill and then put it back on once you come across cold, windy weather conditions. Wearing the most comfortable hiking boots that withstand constant punishment is important as well. Hiking boots about a half-size larger than your foot prevent your toes from jamming when you move on a downward slope.

Use a Hiking Stick

A hiking stick or a trekking pole is a great addition to your hike. It provides you with more stability, especially when you move over rocky and undulating terrain. Hold the stick or pole that keeps your elbows at a comfortable angle of 90 degrees. Hiking by using two sticks or poles can help you increase exertion to get over particularly difficult terrain.

Drink Enough Water

One of the most important hiking tips that we share at our senior living center in Everett concerns receiving enough hydration. Even if you hike during a cool day, water is an essential ingredient for completing a hike. If you are concerned about having enough water for a day hike, bring along a water filtration system to give you access to water from lakes and streams.Getting outdoors is one of the common themes of the activities planned at our assisted living facility in Arlington, WA. Discover what makes us the best senior living center in Arlington by scheduling a tour.

KALE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS LEAFY VEGETABLE

You probably first saw it as a garnish on a plate full of breakfast dishes such as omelets. Eventually, it worked its way up the food chain as one of the ingredients mixed with other lettuces in a salad. Once the nutritional benefits of the leafy vegetable became known, kale transformed from a decorative garnish to an essential part of a healthy diet. At our senior living center in Denver, kale is one of the most popular ingredients used for a wide variety of dishes.

Although it seems like kale made a recent transformation from a garnish to a meal staple, the leafy vegetable has been around for centuries. Thomas Jefferson experimented with using the leafy vegetable in dishes dating back to his Monticello estate days during the early 1800s. The leafy vegetable represented a vital part of northern European cuisine centuries before it found its way onto American restaurant menus.

The chefs at our assisted living facility in Denver, Colorado work with four primary types of kale. You can find the leafy vegetable at your favorite grocery stores, as well as on food stands displayed at a local farmers market. The highest quality kale should present a dark green appearance, with small to medium-sized leaves that do not show any signs of brown or yellow coloring. Kale leaves should be firm and dry, not damp and wilted.

What Are the Health Benefits of Kale?

Kale is a nutritional heavyweight delivering more nutrient punch than just about any other type of food source. The nutritional value of kale includes abundant amounts of vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as plenty of fiber, folate, and manganese. One cup of chopped kale provides just 20 calories, with none of the calories coming from fat. The sugar-free and cholesterol-free leafy vegetable does not have any restrictions when it comes to the amount of it that you can consume.

Only one cup of chopped kale delivers more than 20 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A, which is a crucial vitamin that supports eye health. The same one-cup serving of kale also offers more than 100 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, which is associated with dramatically reducing the risk of developing cataracts. Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, kale also decreases the risk of macular degeneration.

The large quantities of essential nutrients such as fiber, folate, calcium, and potassium make kale one of the most important food sources for maintaining a healthy heart. Kale can reduce the risk of developing heart disease by lowering bad LDL cholesterol. The leafy vegetable also lowers blood pressure because of the abundance of magnesium and potassium. As a non-dairy source of calcium, one cup of kale is a crucial food source for maintaining healthy bones, which is a common health issue for older adults.

The Importance of Nutrition at Retirement Communities in Denver

The best retirement communities in Denver, CO place a strong emphasis on serving nutritious, as well as delicious meals. Versatile kale is served in a number of different ways, including steamed, stir-fried, and of course, raw. You can even blend kale minus the rib section into a morning smoothie or use a whole kale leaf as a wrap that replaces bread when making a sandwich. Roasted kale chips also make the perfect meal companion with roasted potato chips.Discover how our senior living center in Denver works kale into different menu items by scheduling a tour.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CAREGIVER?

You have several factors to consider before choosing a senior living center in Santa Clara, California. The facility’s safety and security features are a top priority to protect your loved one around the clock. Meal time is important to ensure your loved one follows a healthy diet jammed packed with nutritious foods. Other factors to consider include a venues ‘activities calendar and the opportunities your loved one has to socialize with other residents. One factor sits alone in importance at our assisted living facility in San Tomas, and that is the quality of our team of caregivers.

What are the most responsibilities of a caregiver? Let’s take a look.

Personal Care

Residents of the memory care wing at our senior living center in Santa Clara receive much more attention because of their personal care needs. Memory issues can lead to a decline in personal care, and that is when our compassion caregivers make one of their most significant contributions. Personal care includes bathing, cooking, dressing, and maintaining healthy personal hygiene. It is critical for a caregiver to possess a high level of empathy and show considerable respect when tending to a resident’s personal care issues.

Housekeeping

Once a caregiver ensures your loved one has personal care issues under control, then the time comes to help with housekeeping chores. A caregiver working at our assisted living facility in San Tomas, CA can expect to perform household chores such as cleaning dishes, doing laundry, vacuuming the carpet, and completing whatever else needs to be done around a resident’s apartment. Memory care residents typically do not have the ability to keep things organized, and that’s when our caregivers step in to lend a helping hand.

Healthcare

Caregivers remind residents of our senior living center in Santa Clara to take their medications in the prescribed doses, as well as at the right time of day. This is just one healthcare responsibility carried out by our team of licensed and certified caregivers. They also closely monitor the health status of the residents under their watchful eyes. One resident might need a massage to loosen tight muscles, while another resident requires daily assistance with walks around our assisted living facility in San Tomas. Completing physical therapy sessions represent one of the most impactful ways our caregivers tend to the healthcare needs of our residents.

Companionship

Feelings of isolation can quickly cause a mental health decline in vulnerable seniors. The cure for feeling isolated is to remain engaged with other people. One of the most important roles of a caregiver at our senior living center in Santa Clara involves providing companionship for residents assigned to their care. Companionship can involve a daily game of scrabble in a resident’s room, as well as helping a resident move about well enough to interact with other residents in one of the common areas at MorningStar at San Tomas.

The Heart and Soul of MorningStar at San Tomas

Caregivers are the heart and soul of MorningStar at San Tomas. Because of the important responsibilities caregivers carry out, we carefully vet every candidate to ensure they are the right fit for our culture of “to honor, to value, to invest.” We recruit caregivers that possess a calling to serve others. That calling to serve helps our memory care residents live fulfilling lives.

Find out more about our team of caregivers by meeting many of them during a tour of our assisted living facility in San Tomas.

WHAT KIND OF SENIOR LIVING IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Moving away from the comfort of a home you have lived in for many years to a new home at an assisted living facility in Arlington can be one of life’s most traumatic events. From the familiarity of the old home to a completely new living arrangement, transitioning into a senior living center in Everett triggers many more questions than answers. One of the most important questions, and a question you should ask at the beginning of your search, is “What kind of senior living is right for me?”

Moving into an assisted living facility in Lynnwood is not just about a new place to live. It also is about gaining access to a healthy lifestyle that includes nutritious meals, a busy activities calendar, and amenities that promote personal safety. Moving into an assisted living facility also is about choosing the type of senior living that matches your lifestyle:

What is Independent Living?

As the name implies, independent living represents a lifestyle option that allows older adults to follow the same type of lifestyle that they followed in their previous home. While you enjoy independent living at our senior living center in Everett, Washington, you also benefit from perks such as communal meals, free transportation to run errands, and a wide variety of activities to keep you busy. Seniors who opt for our independent living arrangement do not require personal care, but they want to make new friends to ward off the common debilitating feeling of isolation.

What is Assisted Living?

Seniors who choose the assisted living option receive personal care services based on their needs. Not every senior who chooses the assisted living lifestyle option at our senior housing center in Everett, WA requires the same type of personal care. For example, one resident might need help with getting dressed, while another resident requires close monitoring of a medication schedule. Assisted living is the ideal living arrangement for residents of our assisted living facility in Arlington who need help with some personal care responsibilities, but still want to live in a somewhat independent living environment.

What is Memory Care?

Memory care is a type of long-term care that is designed to help residents deal with memory loss caused by a disease such as Alzheimer’s. Although a resident can receive some types of memory care services while a part of an assisted living arrangement, it mostly is a separate type of care for residents assigned to live in a specific section of the senior living community. Memory care typically is a highly monitored environment to ensure resident safety and security. Caregivers not only assist memory care residents with daily tasks, but they also get memory care residents involved in activities to develop memory skills.

Learn More at MorningStar at Silver Lake

Outside of these three lifestyle options, a senior loved one has three other living arrangements to choose from: A nursing home, a skilled rehabilitation center, or a continuing care retirement community. One of the attractions of three lifestyle options available under one roof is it allows residents to start in an independent living arrangement. As circumstances warrant, residents can transition into an assisted living or memory care living environment.

WELCOME TO FISHERMAN’S WHARF

San Francisco is known for a substantial number of attractions. Tourists flock to Chinatown to enjoy an eclectic array of authentic dishes from virtually every country forming the Pacific Rim. Presidio National Park pays homage to the United States military, as well as offers some of the most stunningly beautiful views of the natural scenery found in California and well beyond. Then, you have the iconic trolley cars that authors and filmmakers have immortalized since their inception in 1873. At our memory care center at San Tomas, another local institution that has global significance is one of our favorite places to visit on a group outing.

We are talking about Fisherman’s Wharf.

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s favorite destinations, as well as one of the most popular attractions for the residents at our senior living center in Santa Clara for several reasons.

Let’s take a look at four of them.

Dining

Many restaurants like to brag about their fresh catches of the day, but you cannot get any fresher seafood than the fish served at one of the restaurants located at Fisherman’s Wharf. Pier Market, which is found at PIER 39, offers fresh seafood dishes such as BBQ salmon and garlic-roasted Dungeness crab. Crab Louie Salad originated on Fisherman’s Wharf, and it quickly became one of the Wharf’s most popular dishes. Fog Harbor Fish House offers an elegant ambiance and beautiful views of nearby attractions.

Madame Tussauds

Fisherman’s Wharf offers plenty of family attractions for the residents of our memory care facility in Santa Clara, California. Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf along Jefferson Street, Madame Tussauds presents a lineup of wax figures that rivals any other museum’s wax figure collection in the world. Incredibly life-like-looking wax figures include local celebrities, such as renowned San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame quarterback, Joe Montana. Madame Tussauds provides one of the best interactive experiences of any cultural venue in the Bay Area.

Aquarium of the Bay

With a seemingly infinite amount of ocean water rolling into San Francisco Bay, it makes sense that an aquarium is one of the city’s most cherished attractions for both locals and tourists. Aquarium of the Bay is the best place to experience unforgettable encounters with marine life that inspire both awe and the conservation of the delicate marine ecosystem. Three hundred feet of clear, acrylic tunnels hold more than 700,000 gallons of carefully treated water from the San Francisco Bay that is home to more than 20,000 animals that live near the aquarium.

7D Experience

PIER 39 also features the most advanced film attraction in the world called the 7D Experience. Enjoy the excitement of a roller coaster while interacting with it in the film itself. The XD Dark Ride features a high-tech digital theater that enhances the viewing experience with 3D effects, surround sound stereo, and full-motion seats that mimic reality. Enjoy the latest advances in laser technology, as well as compete in several types of virtual reality games that include dealing with robot cowboys in the future of the Wild West.

One of the many reasons why the residents at MorningStar at San Tomas enjoy their new lifestyles is because of the active social calendar that we offer that includes several group outings every month. With San Francisco the home of world-renowned attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, there is never a lack of things to do in the City by the Bay.Learn more by contacting one of the resident care specialists at our senior living center in Santa Clara, CA.

HOW SENIORS CAN MAINTAIN HEALTHY BONES

Bones do much more than just provide the structure that supports the body. Our bones also protect organs from damage, as well as store calcium and anchor the foundation for muscles to grow. Although we learn about maintaining bone health early in life, it is during our senior years that we must pay special attention to keeping our bones strong and healthy.

At our senior living facility in Everett, Washington, our caregivers make health education a priority for our residents. We educate residents on how to prevent the development of osteoporosis, which represents a medical condition in which bones become weak, even brittle enough to fracture. Since most people reach their peak bone mass around 30 years old, knowing how to prevent a disease such as osteoporosis is one of the most important healthcare missions of our assisted living facility in Arlington.

What Affects Your Bone Health?

Several factors play a role in determining bone health. Perhaps the most publicized factor is the amount of calcium in your diet. Low calcium levels contribute to lower bone density, which increases the risk of a senior sustaining one or more fractures. Inactive seniors have a higher risk of osteoporosis than their more active peers. Tobacco and alcohol use contributes to the weakening of bones as well. Women are at a greater risk of developing the symptoms of osteoporosis because they have less bone tissue than men. Size also plays a role, as people with body mass indexes below 19 have less bone mass to draw from for supporting healthy bones.

Some factors, such as race and family history, are out of our control.

Tips to Keep Your Bones Healthy

At our assisted living facility in Lynnwood, our caregivers provide residents with tips on how to maintain healthy bones. It all starts with calcium, and focusing on calcium levels should begin early in life. 

Adults between the ages of 19 and 50 should consume a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of calcium around 1,000 milligrams, which is the same RDA for men between 51 and 70. Women between 51 and 70 years old need a calcium RDA of 1,200 milligrams per day. Excellent sources of calcium include kale, tofu, broccoli, and dairy products. If you do not consume enough calcium to meet your RDA, ask your doctor about taking supplements to make up the difference.

Vitamin D is another critical nutrient to monitor for maintaining healthy bones. Your body requires a sufficient level of vitamin D to absorb calcium. 600 international units (UIs) a day should be enough vitamin D to absorb the calcium you need to maintain healthy bones as a senior. The RDA jumps to 800 IUs for adults older than 70 years old. Oily fish such as trout, salmon, and whitefish are the best sources of vitamin D. Milk and certain cereals also help seniors reach their RDA for ingesting enough vitamin D. As with calcium, check with your doctor to determine whether you should take vitamin D supplements 

Physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like walking and climbing stairs, helps build strong bones and prevent bone mass loss. Abstaining from smoking tobacco products and drinking alcohol also represent effective measures for maintaining healthy bones.

Stay Bone Healthy at MorningStar at Silver Lake

In addition to educating residents about the strategies for maintaining healthy bones, our senior living center in Everett, WA also schedules activities that help seniors build bone mass. Our passionate commitment to our residents includes incorporating activities that prevent the development of osteoporosis.

6 BRAIN FOODS FOR SENIORS

When your stomach growls, you receive notice that it is time to provide your body with sustenance. However, hunger is much more than quieting down an active stomach. Your brain also needs to be fed to maintain robust cognitive health.

One of the most important features offered by an assisted living facility concerns an active social calendar. Interacting with other seniors is good for the brain, but is a full activities calendar the only way you can determine whether a senior living center in Denver promotes brain health? The answer is what you eat also plays a role in helping you maintain healthy cognitive skills. 

Let’s look at six brain foods for seniors.

Leafy Greens

Rich in B vitamins, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and arugula represent great food sources for delivering quick mental energy boosts. They also are high in antioxidants, which fight off free radicals to protect our brains from the negative consequences of stress. Leafy greens contain considerable levels of folate that helps prevent the cognitive decline caused by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Salmon

Salmon represents an abundant source of omega-3 fatty acids, which significantly contribute to vibrant brain health. High levels of protein and vitamin D do a great job of maintaining strong immunity. The American Heart Association suggests that we consume fish at least two times per week, especially if the fish is fatty like salmon. Salmon contains two types of fatty acids that benefit the health of our brains.

Dark Berries

Dark berries such as blackberries and blueberries are packed with the types of oxidants that prevent the development of cognitive decline. They also provide a food source that appeals to those who have a sweet tooth, without having to consume harmful artificial sweeteners. Rich in vitamins and minerals, dark berries represent a popular addition to cereals and fruit juices.

Nuts

Nuts, especially low-sodium nuts like almonds and walnuts, represent rich sources of the nutrients our bodies need to remain healthy as we grow older. They also are rich in the types of healthy fats that keep the brain humming along at a fast pace. With little to no carbohydrates, nuts help lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar levels. As with berries, you can sprinkle nuts on a wide variety of foods.

Eggs

You cannot go wrong with working eggs into your diet, as they are one of the most substantial sources of nutrients that help boost the energy of your brain. They contain 18 different vitamins and minerals, as well as are easy to digest in most types of recipes. With almost no carbs, eggs have enough protein to make them the ideal food source to start your day.

Avocado

Healthy monounsaturated fats help improve blood flow, and avocados represent a super-rich source of this type of fat. They also are rich in an antioxidant called carotenoids, which prevent oxidants from damaging the brain. Carotenoids help protect the brain against cognitive decline, which defines the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

Diet is an Integral Part of the Morningstar Lifestyle

You have many factors to consider before choosing one of the many retirement communities in Denver. One of the most important factors should be diet and nutrition, which play a pivotal role in ensuring your loved one maintains vibrant mental health. At our senior living center in Denver, our caregivers monitor individual meal plans that are based on strict dietary requirements. Since nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining strong mental health, our meals often incorporate the six brain foods for seniors.

Learn more by scheduling a tour at MorningStar at Observatory Park.

4 Activities to Help Seniors Fight the Winter Blues

As the colder months arrive, it’s time to start planning wintertime activities for those in senior living in Denver. Shorter and darker days can make seniors vulnerable to (seasonal) depression, but with these stimulating indoor activities, older adults can stay happy and healthy throughout the wintertime. 

From brain games to social activities, there are plenty of winter activity options in senior living in Denver. Here are the best ideas to give a try once it gets cold outside:

1. Throw a Classic Dance Party

Music is one of the best ways to keep seniors’ brains stimulated, active, and engaged. Even when memory problems start to affect seniors, music can trigger feelings of nostalgia and bring positive memories back to the surface, which is precisely what you want to help them combat the winter blues. 

Put on some classic tunes and encourage them to get up and groove (in safe ways, of course). Fun movement and nostalgic music paired together are sure to chase away any negative emotions in seniors during the winter months.

2. Host a Puzzle Party

Puzzles are fun for all ages, and studies have shown that completing puzzles and similar “brain games” work at keeping senior cognition sharp. They encourage problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as stimulate geospatial activity in the brain. 

You can make a puzzle party fun and enticing for everyone, even those struggling with memory problems, and include festive and winter-themed puzzles to lift everyone’s spirits. 

3. Turn On Festive Holiday Movies 

Almost everyone has a favorite holiday film that they turn on each winter, so gather everyone together for a fun and festive indoor movie night! You can even set up a makeshift concession stand to make the occasion a bit more eventful and fun — just make sure that you serve snacks and drinks that are accessible and safe for everyone in the room. 

4. Spa Days Full of Pampering

Anyone senior living in Denver deserves to enjoy a thorough pampering session during these winter days. Bring your own spa materials to the community and offer luxurious services that they wouldn’t otherwise normally access. These can include things like manicures, pedicures, facials, and simple grooming tasks. For seniors with memory problems, focus on low-stimulation tasks like hair brushing and nail clipping. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make residents feel special. Seniors are bound to feel more like themselves when they look their best!

Best Ways to Combat Winter Depression in Seniors

The holiday season should be joyful and light, but that isn’t always the reality for many seniors. Thankfully, you can use the above guide to create a memorable and fun winter for residents of senior living in Denver!