Alzheimer’s causes More Changes than Just Memory Loss

Along with changes in the person’s memory and cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s affects a person’s physical abilities. Experts explain dementia symptoms can change everything from the way a person walks, talks, and how their body works. Normal body functions such as going to the bathroom, carrying on a conversation and maintaining balance become more and more difficult.  

While unfortunately we do not yet know the cause of Alzheimer’s, we do know the symptoms are caused by a buildup of harmful proteins in the brain called amyloid and tau, which create clumps called tangles and plaque. These clumps get in the way of normal brain functions and kill healthy cells.

Changes caused by Alzheimer’s include loss of balance and coordination, which puts a person at a higher risk of a fall. A person’s feet may shuffle or drag along as they walk. Another symptom includes weakened muscles and fatigue that makes it difficult to stand or sit upright in a chair. Trouble controlling the bladder and bowels as well as seizures and twitches are other common symptoms.    

While some people experience a slower pace of the disease and live up to 20 years after a diagnosis, the average life expectancy is 4 to 8 years. The most common cause of death in a person with Alzheimer’s is pneumonia, anothe infection, or a heart attack. 

MorningStar at West Valley specializes in caring for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Our holistic approach includes purposeful activities to stimulate or calm whatever the extent of memory loss may be. Our new community and alzheimers homes is located in West San Jose in Santa Clara County and will open in the fourth quarter of 2022. Please visit our website today to inquire about our alzheimers care availability, pricing and to reserve a select suite for your loved one.  

Source: webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-body

Gardening can be a Healthy, Enjoyable Hobby for Seniors

Research shows gardening may provide seniors both mental and physical benefits. In addition to enjoying a garden filled with beautiful flowers or homegrown vegetables and herbs, gardening can be an inspirational “mind-body-spirit” experience.  

Experts say before a senior picks up a shovel, it is a good idea to prepare in advance and take a few precautions. Gardening can put a lot of stress on the spine so it is recommended you warm up your body with a few, full body stretches before you start; during your garden session and after you are done. Use garden tools that are sharp and ergonomically-designed to cause less stress to the hands and back. Terraced or raised beds limit the amount of bending and stress on the back. Use a bench or knee pads as much as possible. Take precautions when lifting and limit your load. Use a light-weight wheelbarrow and keep your gardening sessions short.

Remember to stay hydrated and avoid the full heat of the day. Wear sunblock, protective clothing and a hat with a wide brim. Working in the dirt is therapeutic, and studies show the bacteria in dirt are actually good for us as they boost our immune systems.  

Several studies report gardening can provide some protection against dementia as well as slow the progression of dementia; and has the added benefit of being easy to do even when other activities become difficult. Feeling the dirt between your fingers as you tend to your flowers and vegetables is mentally uplifting, and it is highly satisfying to behold the results. There is even a social component when gardening in a community garden or being in your front yard and exchanging pleasantries and gardening tips as neighbors pass by.    

If a loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of memory impairment, we encourage you to take a look at West San Jose’s newest memory care facility, MorningStar at West Valley. Through Lavender Sky, MorningStar’s holistic approach to Memory Care, we incorporate Montessori-based therapies and create personalized service plans to address the needs of our dementia care residents.  We are scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2022 and can help you reserve a select suite for your loved one now. Ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/5-health-benefits-of-gardening

Ask Questions before Getting Discharged from the Hospital

Experts say it is important to start thinking ahead to your recovery as you begin to heal from an injury, surgical procedure or illness. This includes proactively thinking about questions you should ask before you are discharged from the hospital. Dr. Ruby Sahoo, a member of the Society of Hospital Medicine’s board of directors and the hospital medicine performance director at TeamHealth in Austin, says there is no need to be shy about asking questions as doctors and nurses welcome them. 

Dr. Sahoo explains even though the hospital discharge team will go over much of the information you need to know, your questions can give you a better understanding of your diagnosis and treatment, and a better understanding of how to help yourself heal. This is important as a 2021 report found on average, 14% of people were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of their initial stay.  

The questions you ask regarding your healthcare can also alert doctors to specific issues such as a patient remembering they previously took a medication now being prescribed at an earlier time and had a bad reaction. Knowing this your team can find a better alternative. 

To aid your healing process and help prevent the need to be readmitted, before leaving the hospital make sure you know the medications, the dosage, how to take them and why you are taking them. Ask if doctors found any other problems during your stay?  Also what type of follow-up appointments will you need, and has your primary doctor been updated? Additionally, what symptoms indicate you need to seek medical attention or return to the hospital?  

MorningStar Senior Living will soon add another assisted living and memory care community to our list of senior living communities. MorningStar at Observatory Park is scheduled to open in late 2022 in the desirable South Denver neighborhood close to Observatory Park. We offer comprehensive senior care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, and wellness programs and activities to enhance quality of life for our residents. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, we provide compassionate, all-inclusive services. Visit our website to reserve your select suite today, and ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/questions-to-ask-before-leaving-the-hospital

Social Media Offers Benefits for Seniors

Statistics estimate approximately 59 percent of seniors 65 years and older use social media and 46 percent are on at least one social media platform. While many say they prefer face-to-face contact, social media can offer physical and mental benefits to older adults. 

Today’s seniors use Facebook and Zoom to stay up-to-date on grandkids’ activities, accomplishments and sporting events; to view the family’s recent vacation photos, and to find and reconnect with long-lost friends and relatives. Regardless of time zones or conflicting schedules, a senior can send a text or post on their Facebook page at their convenience and have it viewed and acknowledged at others’ convenience. 

Moreover social media makes it easy for seniors to learn about a wide range of topics such as scientific breakthroughs as well as local and world events. It is an effective platform for small start-ups to sell products like handmade crafts, promote consulting services or events and freelance. Networking, taking courses online, and reading posts and articles on diverse topics help seniors’ minds stay active. Seniors can post stories about their perspective on past events or help mentor and provide advice to younger people. They can play games on social platforms with friends and family or meet new friends from around the world.   

West San Jose’s newest memory care facility, MorningStar at West Valley is designed to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. Incoming residents are thoroughly evaluated to create personalized service plans that address their special needs and provide a gentle flow of purposeful activities. Please visit our website for more about our alzheimers care and to contact us regarding any questions. We open to residents in the fourth quarter of 2022 and are happy to help you reserve a select suite for your loved one. Also ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Having a Hard Time Keeping Your Medical Info Up-to-date?

As we age part of our baggage includes collecting an extensive medical history. However much our past history may be linked to our health today, it doesn’t necessarily follow us around. Experts explain we have yet to develop an all-knowing system that tracks a person from birth. Kelly Batista, executive director of the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System in Florida, says for some, compiling a thorough medical history can become overwhelming.

Medical professionals recommend a couple of methods to help keep track of vital medical information. The first is to use your patient portal attached to your healthcare provider or hospital. Along with storing medical history and test results, you can use it to communicate with your doctor, ask questions, and confirm and request appointments. It allows you to access information regarding prescribed medications and to request refills, view doctors’ notes after a visit, update insurance and make payments for care. Although remember unless you are part of a large medical care system, your records are not all linked.

Mobile apps are another method to store medical information and are designed to keep track of diet, fitness, chronic health conditions like diabetes and day-to-day health events. Rema Padman, a healthcare informatics, analytics and operations researcher and Trustees Professor of Management Science and Healthcare Informatics at Carnegie Mellon University, says, “We’re also seeing apps and wearables provided by health care providers to monitor patients at high risk for adverse events, so they can intervene early and prevent emergency visits or hospital admissions.” 

Other people prefer keeping their own file of paper copies of medical tests and medications or computer copies. Regardless of which system you use, doctors say it is worth the effort.    

MorningStar at Observatory Park’s assisted living provides seniors “a little help from friends” to enable them to live as independently as possible. Located in South Denver’s historic Observatory Park area, our new, contemporary community offers 60 assisted living suites from studio and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, our distinctive Reflections Neighborhood offers 23 suites. For more information regarding our retirement communities and to secure your select suite, visit our website today. While you are there, ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/keeping-track-of-health-information-what-you-should-know?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20May%2026%2006:26:01%20EDT%202022&utm_term=Your%20Health

Depression may be Confused with Dementia

Experts report as people age, dementia and depression are both common conditions and may be confused with one another. Additionally one may lead to the other as depression is linked to a higher risk for dementia, and dementia can cause depression. 

The Harvard Medical School explains depression in the elderly can lead to a “phenomenon called pseudodementia—an apparent intellectual decline that stems from a lack of energy or effort.” They say individuals with this problem are often forgetful, move slowly, exhibit low motivation and signs of slowing mental prowess. If a loved one experiences these types of symptoms, their doctor may treat it with the same medications used to treat depression. As the person’s mood improves, they typically begin to function at their previous level. 

Professionals share a few ways depression and dementia differs to help families and healthcare providers determine what is going on. One important difference is decline in mental functioning is typically faster in depression than with a person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease causes confusion and disorientation as well as problems with short-term memory. Depression causes problems with concentration. 

People suffering from depression do not have more than the usual difficulties with writing, speaking and motor skills, and are more aware of any memory problems they are experiencing. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease seem indifferent to those types of changes. However, to determine the cause of the problem, it is important to make an appointment with the person’s healthcare provider.  

If it does turn out to be Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, MorningStar at West Valley is ready to help. Our new San Jose community is entirely devoted to providing compassionate, comprehensive dementia care services. While new to the San Jose area, MorningStar has communities across the Western US and has proudly earned a reputation for “casting a new light” on senior living. Please contact us to reserve a select suite; we expect to open to residents in the fourth quarter of 2022. 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/understanding-depression?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=HB20220526-Depression&utm_id=3697283&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=3697283

“Mindfulness” Helps You Attain a Life Well-lived

If you find yourself constantly checking emails, texts or other social media content you may be setting yourself up for anxiety, envy, discontentment or even depression. We can become drained when we spend too much time planning and multi-tasking, daydreaming and/or practicing negative thinking. 

Experts say there are steps we can take to lower your stress level and be more resilient in the face of adversity. A life well-lived is a blend of gratitude, optimism, practical wisdom and remaining open to accepting and facing up to what life has in store for us, good or bad. The old adage to “count your blessings'' is part of the lifelong process of learning to be happier and more content. 

The Mayo Clinic says the practice of mindfulness is one way to help relax the body and mind and reduce stress. They explain it is a type of meditation in which you “focus on being intensely aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment.” The practice can be done using breathing methods, guided imagery, concentration, walking mediations and more. 

One example is to slow down and try to experience your surroundings with all your senses. Practice living in the moment; and remember to treat and accept yourself as you would a good friend. Experts suggest committing to doing mindfulness exercises for a period of time such as six months to see if it helps.   

Meet MorningStar’s newest assisted living and memory care community in the historic DU neighborhood in South Denver. MorningStar at Observatory Park is a contemporary 5-story building offering 60 assisted living suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one- and two-bedroom floorplans. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other types of memory loss, Reflections Neighborhood provides the safety, security, people and programs to help preserve the person’s dignity and self-worth. We open to residents in late 2022 and encourage you to reserve a select suite today. Also please ask about our Founders Club Specials.

Memory Care Facility Built Exclusively for Residents’ Needs

The new MorningStar at West Valley was developed by award-winning architects and designers to ensure the comfort, wellbeing and safety of residents suffering from memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our newly built community focuses entirely on providing the finest dementia care designed around the special needs of residents.

We start with 42 smartly-designed suites in a choice of studio or companion configurations within our 31,801 square-foot, two-story community. Studio suites are around 325 square-foot in size and companion units are almost 500 square-feet. Each unit is equipped with an emergency call system and a full, handicapped-accessible bathroom. Our floor plans are available on our website to give you an idea of the configuration that would work best for your loved one. Included in your monthly fee are basic cable TV and utilities, weekly housekeeping, and laundry and linen services along with daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

Each level has its own all-day, dinner room; Life Enrichment room and community living room. The 2nd floor offers a terrace. Onsite amenities include a salon offering hairstyling, manicures and pedicures, massage/therapy room and fitness center. MorningStar’s signature wellness programs and activities leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment. 

Residents receive personalized service plans, daily health monitoring and 24/7 care from our compassionate, well-trained staff. Additionally we provide access to licensed nurses and other supportive third-party service providers.

MorningStar at West Valley’s convenient location offers easy access to the I-280 and San Tomas Expressway. The Westgate Center shopping center is nearby as are the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. For a peaceful walk, Starbird Park is a few blocks away along with expansive Open Space Preserves and State Parks surrounding San Jose. 

MorningStar at West Valley memory care community will open to residents in the fourth quarter of 2022. Please visit our website today to reserve a select suite for your loved one.

4 Hobby Ideas for Seniors

One of the greatest things about retirement is having more time to spend on activities you enjoy. For many adults, the grind of everyday life during their working years doesn’t leave enough time to explore new interests. Retirement is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby and discover skills and topics you might enjoy.

Whether you are enjoying retirement in your own home or in an independent or assisted living community, these four hobby ideas for seniors can spark your creativity and help you meet new friends.

1. Volunteering

Nearly every community has non-profits and charities that are in need of volunteers. From serving meals to the homeless to walking dogs to folding donated clothes, there are many opportunities to lend a hand to those in need. 

Volunteering is not only a special way to give back and spend your time, but it is also a great way to build connections in the community and find like-minded people.

2. Cooking or Baking

During working years, cooking and baking can easily become things that are put on the backburner. During retirement, you have more time to explore new styles of food and experiment with recipes. 

Cooking is an activity that is perfect for senior living because it can be done alone or in a more social setting. Cooking and baking is also a versatile hobby because it caters to all skill levels, from total beginners to skilled cooks.

3. Writing

Writing is a hobby that can require a lot of time, which is why many people don’t get a chance to pick it up before retirement. Writing as a hobby can take many forms. You can try journaling about your daily experiences, writing poetry, or even writing a book or article for publication. 

If you really want to explore writing as a serious hobby, you can even enroll in a local writing class that can help you develop your craft.

4. Gardening

Gardening is a great hobby for seniors because it not only passes the time but also has physical and mental health benefits. Gardening gets you out of the house and into the fresh air. It also requires movement, which can strengthen your body and count toward your daily exercise goals. 

Gardening can also do wonders for your mental health because seeing your vegetation come to life has been shown to greatly improve mood and boost motivation levels. Taking up gardening as a hobby does not have to involve an entire landscape. 

If you are enjoying retirement in assisted or independent living, you can try simple potted plants or a micro garden to start.

Enjoy Hobbies During Retirement at MorningStar Senior Living

MorningStar is dedicated to helping retirees make the most in retirement communities . We believe in empowering seniors to live up to their fullest potential, and we strive to provide the best that independent and assisted living has to offer. Get in touch with us today to learn more about MorningStar at Silver Lake.

Using Humor & Music to Help Those Suffering from Alzheimer’s

People with Alzheimer’s disease often appear to lose the ability to laugh or smile but researchers say most individuals still retain some sense of humor. It is a good thing as a recent study out of Australia reports humor may enable Alzheimer’s patients to better cope. The University of New South Wales in Australia’s recently published study shows humor therapy can be as effective as some drugs in managing agitation in dementia patients. 

Researchers studied the effectiveness of professional humor therapists, known as Elder Clowns, who work with trained nursing home staff called Laughter Bosses. The group performed weekly humor sessions to nursing home patients or individuals using techniques similar to Clown Doctors, who work in children’s hospitals. An Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine in Suita, Japan study reinforced the Australian research finding the positive effects of humor can last for weeks after a therapy session. 

Other areas of research have discovered positive behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s patients when listening to a personalized playlist. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease reports on a study showing music with a particular meaning to a person “can activate regions of the brain typically untouched by early Alzheimer’s disease and may offer a new way to approach anxiety, depression and agitation in patients.”

Jeff Anderson, M.D., a contributing author of the study and an associate professor of radiology at the University of Utah Health, explains the study was inspired by the “Alive Inside” documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. He adds music-brain connection research is just getting started. 

The new MorningStar at West Valley is designed from the ground up to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our holistic approach to memory care includes a gentle flow of purposeful activities that leverages the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort whatever the extent of memory impairment. Located in West San Jose with easy access to I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway, we are close to the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Visit our website for contact info and to reserve a select suite. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2022.

Source: 

aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2018/humor-alzheimers-dementia-caregiving.html

aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2018/music-therapy-alzheimers-symptoms.html?intcmp=AE-CAR-HEA-EOA1

Supporting and Raising Awareness for Alzheimer’s Research

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia-related disease; and more than 6 million Americans are living with the disease. In 2022, Alzheimer's disease will cost the United States $321 billion and the cost is projected to rise to nearly $1 trillion by 2050.

If you live around the San Jose area and have a family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we invite you to take a look at the MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. Although new to the community, MorningStar has several dozen senior living communities across the Western US including MorningStar of Pasadena and MorningStar Casa Sandoval as well as the under-construction MorningStar of San Jose. 

We love the towns and cities where MorningStar communities are located, and display our civic pride and honor God through servant-leadership by volunteering in local nonprofits. As our remarkable residents remind us that life’s deepest satisfaction is found when we give ourselves away in service to others, we rally behind organizations that serve seniors such as the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Each year, MorningStar communities host uplifting celebrations for “The Longest Day” on summer solstice, which raises awareness and funds in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. In addition staff members, residents and families play a role in another Alzheimer’s Association’s event, “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” that takes place every fall. These are the world's largest fundraising events for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Visit their website for details; it’s not too early to get active and support the upcoming longest day celebration or join a walk, start one in your area or donate to a team.

MorningStar at West Valley’s holistic approach to memory care starts with creating a personalized service plan to address needs and provide a gentle flow of daily activities to calm or stimulate. Visit our website for more information and to talk to our team about our all-inclusive memory care facility. We open to residents in the last quarter of 2022 and encourage you to reserve a select suite today. Also be sure to inquiry about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Stay Healthy During Your Senior Years by Exercising 30 Minutes a Day

Exercise is important for people of all ages, but it is especially important for seniors. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to disease, and it takes a bit more effort to keep health ailments at bay. 

Exercising for 30 minutes each day is a habit that every senior should adopt, whether they live at home or in an independent living community. Even moderate exercise helps with both physical and mental health and can make senior living more enjoyable.

Benefits of Exercising 30 Minutes a Day

Maintaining good physical health can be simple by adopting small habits each day. Whether you live alone or in an assisted living community, incorporating exercise into your life does not have to take up a lot of time or require a lot of investment. 

Simply lifting light weights, walking, swimming, or engaging in another aerobic activity for 30 minutes can do wonders for your health.

Improve Strength

Seniors naturally lose strength in their bones and muscles over time. Without regular exercise, ligaments and joints can become weak too. Seniors who do not make time to exercise are at greater risk of injury, even from regular daily activities. 

Exercising for 30 minutes a day prevents the body from weakening and is the best line of defense against preventable injuries.

Maintain Balance 

Falls are one of the top reasons for senior hospitalization. More often than not, falls are not caused by tripping over objects but by a lack of balance. Seniors who do not exercise may find themselves more wobbly and more prone to falls when walking or standing. 

Exercise not only strengthens muscles, which helps with balance, but it improves reaction time and flexibility, making a fall less likely to occur.

Boosts Mood

One of the greatest benefits of exercising for 30 minutes a day is the impact it has on mood and mental health. Exercising has been proven to release endorphins, which contribute to improved mood, greater motivation, and a decreased risk of developing depression. Health is a holistic effort, and exercise benefits your mind just as much as your body.

Improve Energy Levels

If you’ve ever felt a lack of motivation or energy needed to get through your day, it could be due to a lack of exercise. 

Daily exercise certainly expends energy, so it can seem counterintuitive that it would boost your energy levels. However, seniors who exercise for 30 minutes a day generally experience high energy levels and greater motivation.

Maintain an Active Lifestyle with MorningStar Senior Living

MorningStar takes pride in the reputation we have been nurturing since 2003. We aim to provide the best of what independent and assisted living has to offer. 

We believe in empowering retirees to grow, learn, and find fulfillment in their communities. Contact us today for more information about what we have to offer at MorningStar at Silver Lake.

Ensuring the Safety of a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. This is why experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep your loved one safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. 

Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, install automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, look into food delivery services. Additionally, lower the temperature of the water coming from your taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies in a locked area. 

To reduce the risk for falls, install grab bars in the bathroom and put non-skid mats in the tub or shower. Stairways should be well-lit and uncluttered as well as hallways and pathways from room to room. Doctors who work with Alzheimer’s patients caution it is important to remember it is a progressive disease, and there may be a time when more restrictive protocols are necessary such as closing off a staircase altogether.       

At MorningStar at North Ridge, we provide memory care homes for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our community is specifically designed to enhance our residents’ freedom and fully accommodate the disposition and behavior of those with memory impairment. To ensure the safety and well-being of residents, our community is completely secure, including courtyards and strolling paths. In addition, all suites are equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms.

Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participants in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please contact us to learn more.

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact or visit our website for more information about Albuquerque’s finest memory care.

Why We Need Potassium

While many of us know bananas contain potassium, we may not know much more about it or why we need it. Potassium is “a soft, silvery-white mineral found naturally in the earth, and it's critically important to the function of certain processes in the human body.” It also functions as an electrolyte, and is critical to the conduction of electrical signals throughout the body.  

Along with chloride and salt, potassium is an essential, integral part of every cell, making cell growth and nerve signaling possible. It helps generate muscle contractions; regulate the heartbeat; build proteins from amino acids and metabolize carbohydrates for energy. 

Given the importance of potassium, luckily it is water soluble, easily absorbed and found in many foods. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements says adults aged 19 and older should consume 4,700 milligrams of potassium daily. For context, a medium-sized banana contains about 400 mgs of potassium. A whole avocado contains 975 mg and a large white potato has 1,500 mg.  Some other foods containing potassium are leafy greens, peas, pumpkins, oranges, grapefruits, kiwis and melons. Seafood, meats, dairy, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and nuts are other healthy choices.   

Not getting enough potassium can cause a condition known as hypokalemia. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, twitching or cramping (especially at night), or an abnormal or irregular heart rate. Too much potassium can cause hyperkalemia, resulting in weakness and fatigue; numbness and tingling in the limbs and extremities, nausea and chest pain. Potassium-sparing blood pressure medications can elevate your risk of hyperkalemia.

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, please take a look at West San Jose’s newest memory care facility, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley. Visit our website to learn more about our community, and to contact our team with questions. We are scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2022 and can help you reserve a select suite for your loved one that needs alzheimers care. Also ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/a-potassium-primer

The Difference Between Independent Living & Assisted Living

Have you been thinking it’s time for a change in your living arrangements and would love a more manageable, relaxed lifestyle?  If you have started looking into senior living options in the Everett area your next question may be “what is the difference between independent living and assisted living, and which one is best suited to my needs?”  

Independent living is ideal for active seniors who no longer wish to maintain their own home and desire a more carefree lifestyle.  While each community can vary, many offer amenities such as social activities, wellness programs, day trips and meals.  It is also perfect for those who love the sound of predictable budgeting, community living and built-in companionship.  Care services are not provided but being a resident in an independent community may give you priority for a move into assisted living, if the need should arise.

Assisted living is designed for seniors who need help with everyday activities in order to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.  Communities will have an array of services such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, daily meals, and 24-hour care.  Generally, a community assesses in-coming residents to determine the level of assistance needed that is agreeable to the senior and their extended family.  Other amenities offered by assisted living communities may include a range of activities and wellness programs.   

At MorningStar at Silver Lake, you will discover senior living at it’s best.  Our community is designed to enhance the lives of our residents and provide a home where seniors can safely, and comfortably age in place.  Along with inviting common areas both inside and out, we offer a range of amenities and wellness programs to promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Our stylish suites come in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans, and we are pet friendly.  For the area’s finest independent or assisted living, Everett, WA seniors are encouraged to contact us for more information.

MorningStar at Silver Lake proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement “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. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Everett, WA offers.

MorningStar’s Memory Care in Albuquerque

MorningStar at North Ridge offers the Albuquerque area compassionate and loving dementia and Alzheimer’s care.  Our community has 38 suites in studio and one-bedroom floorplans devoted to caring for seniors with memory impairment and we are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar at North Ridge’s resident-directed approach to memory care respects the dignity and value of each person and supports choice and independence as much as possible.  Residents can move freely about in a safe and secure environment that includes courtyards and strolling paths.  We also provide three daily meals served in our comfortable dining room where residents and staff eat together.  In addition, residents are provided 24-hour care with daily health monitoring, and the expertise of a full-time licensed nurse. 

As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help.  We are staffed by experienced and compassionate caregivers who truly understand the disease.  MorningStar leverages the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy in order to heal and comfort, and provides meaningful wellness programs and activities that engage our residents.  Also, as many adverse behaviors are often side effects from antipsychotic drugs, our goal is to have as few as possible of our residents on such drugs.

We recognize that the essence of the individual remains despite the extent of the memory loss, and that our job is to find ways to connect with and nurture it.  MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to this kind of supported living is encompassed under the breadth of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  Thus, each day we strive to thoughtfully “enter, embrace and explore” the world of dementia.  Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar Senior Living, our staff and the philosophy that guides our care.

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact or visit our website for more information about Albuquerque’s finest Alzheimer’s care.

Healthcare Providers Who Offer Help with Cognitive Problems

Experts say typically an individual’s memory problems start slowly and are initially only known to them. Dr. Martin Albers, assistant professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, calls this stage “subjective cognitive decline, where the person senses that they’re having some cognitive issues with short-term memory and word-finding, particularly with proper names.” Other early signs include visual perception problems like confusing words or reversing numbers but are typically easy to work around and to live pretty normally.  

When memory loss is caused by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, symptoms get progressively worse. Dr. Albers says it is important to be medically screened and your first visit should be with your primary healthcare provider. They can assess you both physically and mentally including doing a complete medical history, family history, social history, current medication list and a review of any loss of abilities with day-to-day activities. 

You may be given a cognitive exam like SAGE (self-administered gerocognitive exam) or the MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment). Blood tests typically include cholesterol, B12 and other markers to indicate how well your liver and thyroid are functioning as well as a CT scan or an MRI.

While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, it is important to remember there are other things that may be causing memory problems such as strokes, heart, liver or kidney disease; diabetes and medications. Once a problem is identified, experts say the best doctors to add to your medical team are those with a special interest in cognitive disorders such as geriatricians or neurologists. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides a list of clinical trials that may offer some alternative options for treatment. 

If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia and needs more care than you can provide at home, MorningStar Memory Care at West Valley offers holistic dementia care families can count on. Please visit our website to learn more; we open to residents in the last quarter of 2022 and look forward to helping you reserve a suite.  

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/which-doctor-should-i-see-for-dementia-and-cognitive-decline

Keeping Your Brain Fit

More and more research supports the importance of seniors staying physical fit as well as keeping their brains’ fit.  Harvard Health Publishing reports on research with mice and humans that show “brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells, developing neurological ‘plasticity’ and building up a functional reserve that provides a hedge against future cell loss.”   

Mentally stimulating activities such as trivia and memory games, puzzles, crosswords, board and card games can help maintain brain function.  Even if you don’t have a partner to play with, many of these types of games can be found on a computer or tablet.   Reading, taking courses, drawing, painting and experimenting with things that require manual dexterity are stimulating mental gymnastics.  Other great brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities like playing an instrument or dancing.

Board games, such as chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out.  Another added benefit to playing games with others is companionship.    

Experts say physical activity is also necessary for good brain health as it increases the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain responsible for thought.  It encourages the development of “new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells (synapses).”   Another positive side effect of exercise is it also improves your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure, improving blood sugar balance and reducing mental stress.  Brain health is also improved with good nutrition.   Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, unsaturated oils (olive oil) and plant sources of proteins may help to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.

If you are looking for exceptional senior housing, Everett, WA’s MorningStar at Silver Lake may be your answer.  Our broad range of services and amenities include wellness programs and activities, Chef inspired healthy meals, billiards & game room, fitness center, gardens, and more to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Everett, WA has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Silver Lake. 

Sources: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/12-ways-to-keep-your-brain-young

In Later Stage Alzheimer’s Disease, a Loved One May No Longer Recognize You

Apart from having to watch a loved one go through the devastating stages of Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease, the next saddest thing may be when the person stops recognizing you.   This can bring up all sorts of feelings, of which some while not fair, are there, nonetheless.  When we take time to go visit a family member with dementia in a memory care community and they don’t even know who we are, some people wonder why they are making the effort.  

However, a long-term caregiver reminds us how we can be certain the person is not reacting to our presence in some way?  Maybe the sound of our voice, or the touch of our hand?   In the same way people in comas have said they heard the voices of loved ones even when they were unable to communicate, perhaps a person in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease knows we are there for them on some level.  At the very least, in whatever way they can understand, we want them to know they are loved and valued.    

Experts suggest a way to help make yourself more recognizable to your parents or spouse.  If you are an adult child, try putting together a photo timeline of you as a small child, an adolescent, a young adult to a current picture.  Spouses can do the same starting with a picture from their early days as a couple to the present.  

For anyone having difficulty being around a loved one with Alzheimer’s, it may be helpful to learn all you can about the disease, so you understand what is going on.  It will also teach you better ways to more effectively communicate with the person.  

At MorningStar Memory Care at North Ridge, we are dementia care specialists who provide both compassionate and professional care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our approach is holistic and encompasses every aspect of the disease as well as individualized care.  Visit our website to learn more.  

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact or visit our website for more information about Albuquerque’s finest memory care.

Summer is Here, Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a real concern especially for the elderly, or for anyone who spends time in the sun. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention says over 43% of adults do not drink enough water each day. Although the amount of fluid we need differs, Heather Mangieri, a registered dietitian based in Imperial, PA, says on average men should consume 15 cups of fluid a day and women 11 cups.  

Experts say water is the best way to hydrate but for those who find it a chore to drink, there are other healthy alternatives. In fact statistics show 22% of our daily fluid intake is from foods such as fruits and vegetables, which are especially high in fluid. Some of the most moisture-providing vegetables are lettuce and cucumbers containing up to 96% water. Celery, radishes, spinach and cauliflower are other good choices. Some of the most hydrating fruits are tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon and cantaloupe.

Despite popular folklore, coffee doesn’t cause fluid loss and does provide hydration, but experts say it is still important to limit your amount of caffeine especially toward evening. Drinking too much alcohol does dehydrate the body and one tip to lessen the effects is to consume a beverage high in electrolytes like coconut water. Cold soups are another way to keep your fluid levels high. Oatmeal with berries is a good choice for breakfast as the oats soak up the water they are cooked in and the berries themselves are hydrating. 

The new MorningStar at West Valley memory care facility is designed to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia with 42 suites in a range of floor plans and configurations. Residents receive daily health monitoring and care as well as healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. Visit our website for information regarding our services, amenities and availability. We are happy to answer your questions about alzheimers homes and to help you reserve a select suite. MorningStar at West Valley opens in the last quarter of 2022.

Source: 

health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/ways-to-stay-hydrated-besides-drinking-water?slide=12