Tips for Managing Diabetic Foot Health

At senior living Santa Clara, we know that maintaining foot health is crucial for anyone living with diabetes. Diabetic foot issues can sneak up on us, so it’s important to take preventive steps to keep our feet healthy and happy. Whether you’re in our community or caring for a loved one, these tips can help you manage diabetic foot health effectively.

Inspect Your Feet Daily

A little attention goes a long way! Make it a habit to check your feet every day for any cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. It can be as simple as taking a few moments before bed to give your feet a once-over. If you have trouble seeing the bottom of your feet, a mirror can help or ask a family member or caregiver to assist. Early detection is key to preventing complications.

Keep Feet Clean and Dry

Good hygiene is a cornerstone of foot health. Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap, and make sure todry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture left between toes can lead to fungal infections. I always like to finish with a gentle moisturizing cream to keep the skin soft, but avoid putting lotion between the toes where it can create excess moisture.

Choose Proper Footwear

Proper shoes are crucial for diabetic foot health. Look for well-fitting shoes that protect your feet without squeezing them. Avoid high heels and pointy shoes that can cause blisters or sores. Shoes should have soft insoles and enough room to wiggle your toes. If you need extra support, consider diabetic shoes or custom orthotics for added comfort and protection.

Trim Your Toenails Carefully

Keeping toenails trimmed can prevent ingrown toenails and other issues. Cut your nails straight across and file the edges to avoid sharp corners. If you have difficulty trimming your nails, a podiatrist can help. At memory care San Tomas, we often arrange foot care appointments to ensure our residents’ feet are in top shape.

Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining good blood sugar control is vital for overall health and can help reduce the risk of foot problems. Keep track of your levels, follow your healthcare provider’s advice, and take medications as prescribed. A balanced diet and regular exercise can also make a big difference in managing diabetes.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity is not only great for managing diabetes, but it also improves circulation, which benefits foot health. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help keep your feet healthy without putting too much pressure on them. Just make sure to wear proper footwear and check your feet afterward for any signs of stress or injury.

Don’t Ignore Foot Problems

If you notice any changes in your feet, such as persistent pain, swelling, or wounds that don’t heal, seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can prevent small problems from becoming serious. At our memory care facility, we emphasize the importance of addressing foot issues quickly and provide support to help residents manage their health effectively.

Taking proactive steps to care for your feet can greatly enhance your quality of life when managing diabetes. At our community, we are committed to helping our community maintain their independence and well-being through comprehensive care and support. By following these tips, you can take charge of your diabetic foot health and enjoy your golden years to the fullest.

HOW TO FIND THE BEST MEMORY CARE FACILITY

Seniors who have developed the symptoms associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease often benefit from living in a memory care facility such as MorningStar at Observatory Park. Our senior living center located in Denver caters to the needs of residents who struggle with memory issues, as well as significant cognitive decline.

A memory care facility in one of several types of retirement communities in Denver that provide long-term care for seniors who require assistance meeting basic daily responsibilities such as bathing and cooking. Memory care facilities typically provide personal care because of a low caregiver-to-resident ratio. Caregivers receive extensive training on how to provide daily support for residents who struggle with memory loss and other types of cognitive decline issues.

If a loved one has developed symptoms of memory loss, the time has come to learn how to find a memory care facility.

Consult With Your Loved One’s Healthcare Provider

The best source to reach out to for a memory care facility recommendation is a trusted primary care physician who specializes in offering memory care services. A trusted healthcare provider can suggest assisted living facilities in Denver that also provide memory care support for residents. At MorningStar-Observatory Park, we offer both assisted living and memory care arrangements for residences. Many of our residents are independent enough to start in an assisted living program, with the option to transfer immediately to memory care when circumstances warrant such a transition.

Networking

The next best source for a memory care facility recommendation might be friends, family members, and professional peers. When you receive a memory care facility recommendation for a loved one, ask why the facility is considered one of the finest senior living centers in Denver, Colorado. Focus on learning more about the quality of memory care provided, especially when it comes to the attention paid to helping your loved one complete basic daily tasks. You also want to discover the types of healthcare services provided by retirement communities in Denver that provide memory.

Perform Online Research

Once you create a shortlist of memory care facilities, go online to learn more about each facility. You should find out about costs, amenities, and activities calendar information, as well as read blogs that provide you with insight into the expertise of the caregivers who help memory care residents live productive lives. Read the reviews left by current and former residents on sites such as Yelp and Google, as well as access every facility’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page. Online senior living directories also present helpful information.

Visit Each Facility

The last step in the search for a memory care facility involves visiting each facility on your shortlist. You should be able to determine how caregivers interact with memory care residents, as well as have enough time to ask important questions like what is the caregiver-to-resident ratio. Most assisted living facilities in Denver, including MorningStar at Observatory Park, offer tours of their facilities during business hours. Before you leave a facility after a tour, review the facility’s activities calendar and discover how the facility ensures the safety of your loved one. You also want to make a note concerning the cleanliness of each facility on your shortlist.

The caregivers at our assisted living facility in Denver, Colorado possess the most accomplished professional credentials of the caregivers working at any other facility in the area. If you are searching for an assisted living facility that also offers memory care services, we encourage you to schedule a tour of MorningStar at Observatory Park.

Spring Allergy Management for Seniors

Spring can be a challenging season for many seniors, especially those with allergies. Pollen from trees, grass, and flowers can trigger uncomfortable allergic reactions. Effective management of these allergies is crucial for residents in memory care San Tomas and senior living Santa Clara to ensure they can enjoy the season with minimal discomfort.

Identifying Allergens and Avoidance Strategies

The first step in managing spring allergies is identifying specific allergens. Once identified, seniors and caregivers can develop strategies to minimize exposure. This may involve keeping windows closed during high pollen days and using air purifiers to keep indoor air clean. Staff at senior living Santa Clara can assist in monitoring local allergy forecasts and advising residents on the best times to enjoy outdoor activities.

Proper Cleaning Techniques

Regular cleaning can help reduce allergen accumulation in living spaces. Vacuuming with HEPA filters, dusting with damp cloths, and frequent laundering of bed linens in hot water can significantly lower the presence of allergens. Memory care San Tomas facilities often have protocols in place for frequent cleaning to ensure that residents with allergies can breathe easier.

Medication Management

For many seniors, over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications can be effective in managing symptoms. It is important for these medications to be managed by healthcare providers, especially for seniors with multiple prescriptions to avoid any potential drug interactions. Staff in facilities like senior living Santa Clara are trained to help manage and administer medications to ensure optimal efficacy and safety.

Strengthening Immunity

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help strengthen the immune system, potentially reducing the severity of allergy symptoms. Nutritional planning in communities like memory care San Tomas includes meals that are not only nutritious but also tailored to the health needs of seniors, including those with allergies.

Outdoor Activity Planning

While it is beneficial for seniors to spend time outdoors, it’s important to plan these activities wisely during allergy season. Engaging in outdoor activities when pollen counts are lower, such as after rain or in the late afternoon, can help minimize exposure to allergens. Facilities like senior living Santa Clara can arrange indoor alternatives for nature engagement on days when pollen counts are particularly high.

Consultation with Allergy Specialists

If allergies are severe or difficult to manage, consulting with an allergy specialist can provide additional strategies tailored to individual needs. These specialists can offer testing and treatments like immunotherapy, which may reduce the severity of allergic reactions over time. Staff at memory care San Tomas can facilitate appointments and transportation for residents needing specialist care.

By implementing these strategies, seniors in memory care San Tomas and senior living Santa Clara can better manage spring allergies, ensuring they are comfortable and able to enjoy all the activities and beauty the season has to offer. Proper allergy management is integral to maintaining quality of life and health for seniors during this vibrant time of year.

WHAT IS MEMORY CARE?

It is a stage in life that is difficult for loved ones to address. A family member has started to experience memory loss, which makes it a challenge to complete standard daily activities. Where do you turn for help in taking care of a loved one who has started to experience memory loss?

The answer is by moving the loved one into one of the best retirement communities in Denver, Colorado.

Our assisted living facility in Denver, Colorado specializes in helping family members deal with the memory loss experienced by a loved one. We offer the most comprehensive list of memory care services, but just as important, we make sure you and everyone responsible for the care of a loved one knows the answer to the question, what is memory care?

What Do I Need to Know About Memory Care?

Memory care represents a specialized type of healthcare for adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or some other form of dementia. It focuses on ensuring the safety of residents who experience memory loss, as well as implementing several programs to boost memory skills through strategies such as repetitive mental exercises.

Although the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease often go unrecognized, the signs of acute memory loss are not hard to detect. The key is to intervene before memory loss becomes an issue that threatens the safety of a loved one. Even if you have the time to care for a loved one who suffers memory loss, you can expect one day to need the professional support of a caregiver who specializes in providing memory care services.

What Are the Services Provided in a Memory Care Facility?

Residential memory care centers offer many of the same services and amenities that are offered to residents of assisted living centers in Denver. This includes a private apartment, with three meals scheduled throughout each day. Where memory care services differ from assisted living services concerns the offering of activities for dementia patients. In addition, most memory care facilities in Denver incorporate safety strategies such as locked doors that send out an alarm whenever they are opened.

At MorningStar at Observatory Park, our facility offers the most comprehensive list of memory care services of any facility of its kind throughout the greater Denver metropolitan area.

What Are the Benefits of a Memory Care Center?

Although the transition to a memory care facility can take a huge emotional toll on both a new resident and family member, the benefits of making the move far outweigh the short-term emotional duress issues.

A memory care facility in Denver provides a secure setting that keeps residents safe and gives family members peace of mind. Your loved one benefits from social interactions that include daily activities such as exercise programs and games that stimulate memory skills. Your loved one receives dedicated personal care services, which include bathing, cooking, and cleaning. You can expect care that is provided by caregivers who specialize in providing dementia-related care. Your loved one benefits by eating a healthy diet, as well as having quick access to healthcare professionals.

Your responsibilities as a daily caregiver decrease in number, which allows you to return to your normal role as a family member first.

Learn More About One of the Best Retirement Communities in Denver

With a foundation built on honoring God and valuing our residents, MorningStar at Observatory Park offers the most comprehensive list of memory care services of any senior living center in Denver, CO. Learn more by scheduling a tour of our facility.

WHAT FACTORS DEFINE THE BEST MEMORY CARE SERVICES?

Determining whether to transition a loved one from a home living environment into one of the retirement communities in Denver, Colorado is one of the most difficult decisions you can expect to make during your lifetime. At our assisted living facility in Denver, we make the difficult decision much easier to make for several reasons. One of the most influential reasons why we attract an incredible amount of interest concerns our three types of lifestyle options, which are independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Your loved one can start in an independent living arrangement, and when the situation dictates it, move into an assisted living or memory care environment.

Let’s look at some other factors that you should consider for choosing the best memory care facility.

Safety

Resident safety encompasses many criteria, with the most important criterion being protection from criminal acts. Our senior living center in Denver has installed a comprehensive camera surveillance system to discourage criminals from committing acts that harm our residents. Another important safety issue regards preventing memory care patients from wandering throughout our facility.

Any memory care facility that you choose should lock all exits and entrances throughout each day.

Innovative Therapies and Technologies

Retirement communities in Denver such as MorningStar at Observatory Park that implement the most advanced therapies and technologies separate themselves from other assisted living facilities. For example, the use of robotic pets has started to gain traction at some senior living centers in Denver because interacting with artificial pets stimulates memory skills. If your loved one requires special attention paid to certain issues, ensure the assisted living facility in Denver that you choose is equipped with the right technology to make it happen.

Around the Clock Registered Nurse Coverage

Some senior living centers in Denver, CO only offer registered nurse coverage during the day. The lack of registered nurse coverage at night can leave residents highly vulnerable to facing serious, even life-threatening issues. Any memory care facility under consideration should confirm that the facility positions a registered nurse on every floor 24 hours a day. Registered nurses typically have more knowledge and experience than CNAs who can facilitate daily care such as monitoring vital statistics.

Low Turnover Rate

As with any type of business model, a high turnover rate for employees indicates a serious underlying problem. Assisted living facilities that have to deal with a high turnover rate deliver inferior memory care services because they lack labor resources. A high turnover rate at any of the retirement communities in Denver also might force facilities to hire less experienced and knowledgeable employees.

Read Online Reviews

Online reviews found on sites such as Yelp and Google should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a memory care facility in Denver. However, online reviews can help you confirm the presence of the other factors on this list. The key is to read as many reviews as possible to determine if there is a common theme that stands out for an assisted living facility in Denver.

Consider Highly-Rated MorningStar at Observatory Park

MorningStar at Observatory Park checks all the boxes that need to be checked when deciding on a senior living center in Denver, CO. We enjoy an industry-low turnover rate, as well as implement the most cutting-edge therapies and technologies to improve resident care. Our safe facility protects residents against issues such as slip and fall incidents. You also can expect registered nurse coverage 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

5 VALENTINE’S DAY ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS

You might think of Valentine’s Day as a special day for those who are young and in love. After all, that is the image sold in popular culture, from online content to television commercials. However, Valentine’s Day is a special day that everyone should enjoy, regardless of age and relationship status. This is especially true at our senior living center in Santa Clara, California where residents spend Valentine’s Day participating in a wide variety of activities. The engaging culture at MorningStar at San Tomas encourages residents to invite friends and family members to our memory care facility to share the joy of one of the most anticipated days of the year.

Let’s check out five popular Valentine’s Day activities for seniors living at our memory care facility in San Tomas.

Arrange Bouquets

Roses represent the most endearing image portrayed on Valentine’s, and our memory care facility in San Tomas gives the rose its proper due by involving our residents in the arrangement of bouquets. Roses tend to be on the expensive side, which means an alternative is appropriate such as arranging carnations into bouquets. A few extras such as baby’s breath or thick, decorative twigs complete the visually appealing ensemble for display at MorningStar at San Tomas.

Release Your Inner Poet

Valentine’s Day cards gain meaning through the thoughtful words written down within the cards. You do not have to be a world-renowned poet to enjoy the mentally stimulating activity of poetry. The key is to write down the feelings you have that come straight from the heart. Whether you exercise your poetry skills with haikus or several different sing-song rhymes for family members, you have many ways to express yourself through the beauty of poetic words.

Movie Night

The most important theme that defines Valentine’s Day is that it is a day for companionship. Since Hollywood loves to release movies based on romantic themes, what better way to get together on this special day than by holding a movie night at our senior living center in Santa Clara? Start up the popcorn machines, find your favorite chair to relax, and spend time with other residents watching a Valentine’s Day-themed movie.

Tea Time

When the time comes to take a break from Valentine’s Day arts and crafts, enjoy a relaxing break by sharing tea and finger sandwiches with other residents of our memory care facility in San Tomas. Tea time provides a refreshing break from all the Valentine’s Day activities, while also providing you with an opportunity to socialize with other residents and family members. You can offer your favorite tea for other residents to try while you enjoy playing a card game after a light meal.

Candy Heart Cards

Not every one of your loved ones might be able to attend the festivities on Valentine’s Day at our assisted living facility in San Tomas, CA. However, you can still connect with loved ones by creating and sending candy heart cards that include your expressions of love. In addition to a candy heart design, your cards also can include glitter, stickers, and photographs.

MorningStar’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to trust” is never more evident than on special days such as Valentine’s Day. Our foundation for honoring God and valuing our seniors shines brightly on this special day when the residents of MorningStar at San Tomas participate in engaging activities.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OCEAN AIR?

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, our senior living center in Santa Clara, California is located next to several attractions that keep our residents busy throughout the year. One attraction is not visible, but it makes a positive health impact for San Jose, CA residents of all ages.

We are talking about the invigorating ocean air.

With our memory care facility located near the Pacific Ocean, as well as the San Francisco Bay, our residents receive a daily dose of an antidote that costs nothing to enjoy and does not require you to wait a long time for a pharmacy prescription. Scientists have long understood the healing and restorative powers of ocean air, but only recently has the scientific research community specified what defines the healing and restorative powers of it.

Let’s look at three health benefits of ocean air.

Respiratory Benefits

According to the research conducted by the Lung Institute, ocean air improves the functioning of the lungs, as well as thins mucus enough to reduce coughing for people who suffer from lung disease or live with breathing difficulties. In one controlled research study, patients with lung disease received hypertonic saline over 48 weeks in an attempt to simulate breathing in ocean air. The result of the study convinced researchers that lung disease patients suffered considerably fewer respiratory flare-ups, which means they did not need to take as many antibiotics.

How does ocean air heal the lungs? The answer lies in the minute drops of seawater that travel with ocean air. The minute seawater droplets contain salt, iodine, and magnesium that when breathed into the respiratory system, stimulates the immune system to clear out harmful mucus.

Skin Benefits

In small amounts, saltwater can be the most helpful beauty aid. When ocean air touches the body, the minute particles of saltwater detoxify the skin, which treats open wounds and reduces swelling along the skin’s surface. Ocean air cleanses the skin to balance its PH, which is an effective way to treat acne and other types of skin conditions. Ocean air also contains minute particles of saltwater rich in magnesium, which is a mineral that naturally hydrates the skin.

Mental Health Benefits

The healing and restorative powers of ocean air also include boosting mood. Closing your eyes and breathing in ocean air is one of the most effective strategies for lowering stress and anxiety levels. Both the sound of crashing saltwater waves and the inhalation of sodium-rich water typically result in a calming, if not hypnotic feeling. Of course, when you open your eyes and see miles upon miles of vast water, visually experiencing the ocean delivers healing and restorative benefits as well.

The Pacific Ocean and its seemingly endless scenic vistas provide the ultimate calming effect for people of all ages.

MorningStar at San Tomas Encourages an Active Lifestyle

The ocean is much more than a place to breathe in healthy air. At our memory care facility in Santa Clara, we organize group outings that allow our residents to experience the best of what the Pacific Ocean has to offer. After all, the Pacific Ocean is one of the best places to enjoy a physically active lifestyle. Swimming, beach volleyball, and scuba diving all help our residents remain physically active during their senior years. Discover what makes MorningStar at San Tomas special by scheduling a tour.

Looking for a Gift for a Loved One With Dementia?

If you want to get something special for mom or dad or another loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, it can be challenging to figure out a good gift. This is where the Internet can lend a hand with a range of items designed to enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
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Dementia care specialists say it can take a little more time and some creativity but there are many great gift ideas. One idea is personalized gifts or memory-filled ones. A photo album filled with pictures of the person surrounded by people important to them, or a picture book from a place they loved to visit. A coffee mug personalized with a photo or a cozy throw filled with favorite family pictures are also good ideas.

Music from their younger years, show tunes and old movies are sure to make them smile and can be a good way to spend an afternoon together listening to their new gifts. Coloring books filled with pictures of things they love such as animals or flowers, and a set of new markers or crayons, and easy-to-do crafts are also fun to do together.

Other items targeted to people with dementia are therapy stuffed animals. Designed to meet their special needs, one example is a teddy bear that comes with a few classic songs but has room to load a person’s favorite tunes (up to a 1,000 songs). Cuddly robotic cat and dog stuffed animals have a calming, soothing effect on people in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer's disease. Research shows they can help the person remember a time in their life when their purpose included caring for others.

MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas provides compassionate and loving care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Located in West San Jose in Santa Clara County, our new community is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of residents, allowing them as much independence as possible. Our specially trained care team understands that the essence of the person still exists despite their memory loss, and will strive every day to connect with and nurture that essence. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care facility in San Jose.

Risk Factors of Alzheimer’s Disease

The Mayo Clinic reports approximately 5.8 million people in the US age 65 and older live with Alzheimer's disease. Of those, 80% are age 75 or older. Of the approximately 50 million people worldwide with dementia, it is estimated 60% to 70% of them have Alzheimer's disease.​

The risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as we age. One study reports annually there were four new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 65 to 74, 32 new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 75 to 84, and 76 new diagnoses per 1,000 people ages 85 and older. The Mayo Clinic states if you have a direct family member such as a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s you are at a higher risk. However, even though research has identified rare changes (mutations) in three genes that virtually guarantee a person who inherits one of them will develop Alzheimer's; these mutations account for less than 1% of people with Alzheimer's disease.

Women are at a higher risk than men but it could be because they live longer. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) puts a person at a higher risk and when the primary deficit is memory, the person is likely to transition to Alzheimer's disease. Other risk factors include those who have experienced head trauma, are routinely exposed to poor air quality and consume alcohol excessively. Lifestyle habits including an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise as well as failing to manage health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. 

MorningStar at North Ridge provides compassionate, individualized dementia care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our care addresses the needs of our residents starting with the very design of our community to a wide range of wellness programs, activities and healthy, delicious meals.  For trusted memory care in Albuquerque, please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, 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 dementia care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care in Albuquerque, NM.
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Source: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447

The Difference between Memory Care and Assisted Living

If an elderly parent or another loved one needs more care than they can get living at home, you may have started thinking about senior living. The US Department of Human Health & Services estimates, “About 70% of adults older than 65 will need long-term care at some point in their lives.” Moreover, many who require senior care have some type of cognitive decline or memory loss. The World Health Organization reports 55 million people worldwide have dementia and nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year.

Before you begin the search for senior care, it is important to know the difference between assisted living and memory care. One of the top differences is the amount of attention given to memory care residents. While assisted living typically offers 24/7 emergency alert systems and help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), memory care also offers specialized therapies for those with memory loss.

Wellness programs for assisted living residents are entertaining, meaningful programs with opportunities to socialize, grow and contribute. Memory care communities provide purposeful programs and therapies designed to help calm or stimulate residents as situations warrant. Personalized care plans compassionately address specialized needs including managing aggressive behaviors or wandering.

The physical environment in memory care includes more precautions to safeguard the individual. These include things like locked entrances equipped with alarms systems and warning signals if someone exits. The layout of the community typically offers clear wayfinding to help residents navigate their environment and decrease confusion and agitation.

Memory care communities have a higher staff to resident ratio to enable them to provide more attentive care throughout the day as well as hands-on assistance with meals and the ADLs. In addition, staff are generally trained in dementia care to have a better understanding of the disease.

MorningStar at North Ridge is designed from the ground up to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our holistic approach to memory care includes a gentle flow of purposeful activities leveraging the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort. We strive to make each day as special as possible for our residents and we have a wonderful team of caregivers to help us achieve that goal. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s quality Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque.

Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/assisted-living-vs-memory-care

4 NUTRITIOUS MEALS SENIORS LOVE

“You are what you eat.”

You have heard the expression at least one time, but what exactly does it mean? Perhaps a better expression is “Your health depends on what you eat.” This is especially true for seniors who tend to lose interest in cooking as they reach their golden years. However, getting enough minerals and nutrients, as well as remaining properly hydrated, are the key to enjoying a healthy senior lifestyle.

Getting enough minerals and nutrients also is a plus for promoting robust brain power. Certain vitamins enhance the functioning of the brain, as well as improve the cardiovascular system. Each of the following four nutritious meals seniors love can be called both brain and body food that keeps your loved one healthy.

As the best memory care facility in Phoenix, Morningstar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Acadia ensures our residents receive the right amounts of healthy foods such as the following four nutritious meals.

Salmon and Vegetables

This recipe, which showcases salmon and vegetables, is easy to complete. Salmon represents a low-calorie protein that is a rich source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and energy-producing B vitamins. You also can cook trout or tilapia instead of salmon to benefit from heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Saute the veggies of your choice in olive oil, while baking the salmon filet in a 450-degree oven. Finish the veggies in the oven with the salmon until the salmon turns flaky and presents an opaque appearance.

Berry Chicken Salad

Your senior loved one does not have to develop award-winning culinary skills to create any of the four dishes on this list, but the berry chicken salad is an especially easy recipe to complete. This recipe calls for cooked chicken, which can be the leftovers from another meal. Mix mayo, sugar, and tarragon in a salad bowl before adding blueberries and strawberries. You also should consider adding both peas and celery for both nutrition and texture reasons.

Blend the chicken in last and store the salad in the refrigerator until it is time for lunch or dinner.

Veggie Stir-Fry

This is another popular dish that takes more time to prepare than to cook. Select your favorite veggies and then dice or slice each one before setting them in a bowl where olive oil waits for coating. The sauce includes water, honey, orange juice, fresh ginger, and low-sodium soy sauce. Saute the veggies in the olive oil coating before adding the sauce to cover both the veggies and the protein of your choice, which can be shrimp, chicken, or heart-healthy tofu.

Quiche

As one of the most versatile types of nutritious meals seniors love, quiche can be served at any meal. The relatively inexpensive nutritious meal for seniors includes a leafy green such as spinach, which provides iron, magnesium, and manganese, as well as heart-healthy like vitamins A, C, and K. Your senior loved one can find an appealing quiche recipe in most cookbooks, as well as online at food-centric websites.
After mixing the ingredients, which consist of eggs and some type of protein, place the quiche in an oven set at the temperature listed in the recipe.

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Arcadia offers a warm, loving atmosphere, as well as spectacular scenery and resort-like amenities. Our foundation values include a commitment to honoring God and serving the residences of our highly-rated community. Get the answers to your senior living in Phoenix questions by submitting the convenient form found on our website.

What Is a Memory Care Facility?

The concept of memory care may seem foreign to you, but maybe you have been caring for your aging loved one with memory problems for a while now. Perhaps another family member has taken over after you’ve begun to feel burnt out.

No matter what your dementia care situation is right now, your loved one can benefit from a memory care facility. Let’s find out what one is, exactly, and what it can provide to your beloved family member or friend.

Long-Term Advanced Care

A memory care facility provides long-term, individualized care to aging adults with dementia and other memory problems. In these facilities, adults receive medical, cognitive, and wellness services to improve their quality of life. 

What memory care offers is typically a bit different from that of assisted living. In assisted living communities, residents care for themselves throughout most of the day, often needing less direct medical and cognitive support and supervision than those in a memory care establishment.

There is nothing wrong with choosing a memory care facility for your loved one. In fact, many dementia care residences actively improve the physical and mental health of their residents.

The Benefits of Dementia Care Facilities

Dementia is an all-encompassing and strenuous problem to deal with for both the residents of a memory care facility and their loved ones. Passing caregiving responsibilities to professionals can ease these stressors and improve the quality of life of everyone involved. 

Spend More Quality Time Together 

When you select a high-quality memory care facility for your loved one, you are able to spend more quality time with them. Your visits won’t consist of stressful, negative interactions, as medical professionals will take care of the hard parts, and you can spend time doing things you and your loved one both enjoy. 

Receive More Medical Support

Dementia care is complex and requires some amount of medical knowledge. When you care for an aging adult with memory problems, you might feel as though proper care is out of your range of capability. 
The professionals at memory care facilities have all trained and studied for this job for many years, which means that they can offer the best possible medical advice and care for your loved one and allow their physical and mental health to thrive as a result.

Ease Your Own Stress

As a family caregiver, you might feel stressed and burnt out, but these feelings and responses are totally normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Moving your loved one to a memory care facility can reduce your burden and allow your entire family to enjoy more freedom, all while your loved one is receiving the best possible care!

Safety and Structure

Your loved one might be prone to wandering, getting lost, or other safety hazards. In dementia care facilities, there are plenty of safeguards in place against these problems, meaning your loved one can enjoy a structured, routine-based environment while exploring the hobbies and activities that they love.

The Next Steps: Learn More About Memory Care  

If memory care sounds beneficial for your family member with dementia, chances are it’s the right decision to make. You can continue to gather information and learn how memory care works with no obligation, but don’t be afraid to seek help with caring for your precious loved one.

A Guide to Helping Your Loved Ones Cope with Memory Loss

There are no easy answers when it comes to memory problems. As elderly adults continue to age, their memory often gets worse, which can understandably cause immense distress and frustration in your loved one’s life and even impact your own mental health as well. 

Thankfully, there are ways to help your loved ones feel better as they experience and navigate memory changes. Follow these tips to make life as easy and positive as possible for both them and yourself.

Be Honest

 Aging adults deserve to know the truth about what is happening to them. In fact, keeping important information from them can cause further harm to their health. 

Imagine waking up and forgetting where you are, who your family members are, and what you did yesterday. It’s a terrifying notion for most to think about, but you need to understand that it is very much becoming your loved one’s reality. 

You would want your family members to be honest with you, and it is no different for your aging loved one, so let them know that they are having memory issues and that they won’t need to worry, as they’ll be in good hands. 

Make Helpful Changes in the House 

When your loved one struggles with memory problems, their daily tasks can become much more difficult for them to manage, including basic hygiene like brushing their teeth, combing their hair, or cleaning the house. 
Make sure you modify and set up their home in a way that makes it easy for them to navigate everything. It can be helpful to place sticky notes around each room with the locations of useful items. 

In addition, take any necessary safety measures to prevent your loved one from getting hurt. If they are prone to wandering or getting lost, invest in security cameras that you’ll have constant access to. You can also purchase programmable door locks to avoid these dangers.

Hold Space for Their Emotions

As overwhelming as your loved one’s memory problems can be for you, they are likely even more distressing for them. In response, give them plenty of reassurance and validation as they process their feelings regarding their condition. 

Doing so can look different for every family. Some might like a journal to record their thoughts and feelings, while others prefer one-on-one venting sessions. Hold plenty of space for their difficult emotions as they adjust to mental changes. 

Look for a Memory Care Facility 

If you are unable (or no longer able) to care for your loved one full-time, look into a high-quality memory care facility. Dementia care facilities are equipped to handle the variety of changes your loved one is experiencing. 
At a dementia care facility, your loved one will receive medical, psychological, and social support, taking the burden off of them and your other family members and allowing you all to focus on loving and supporting them during your visits. 
 
Give Your Loved Ones Grace as They Cope with New Challenges

When it comes to memory problems, there are many complex emotions involved. As such, give yourself and your loved ones lots of grace as they move through this new chapter of their lives. Remain available for support and remind them that they are loved and cared for no matter what.

How to Choose the Right Memory Care Facility for Your Loved One

Choosing to pursue dementia care for your loved one is never easy. There are many different memory care facilities that offer a variety of benefits. With that said, we invite you to keep the following tips in mind to help you choose the best dementia care for the special person in your life. 

Scout Each Facility’s Website 

When you begin the search for the perfect memory care facility for your loved one, the internet is the best place to start. Most, if not all, dementia care facilities have websites that offer extensive information about their communities, amenities, and services. 

You know your loved one best, so look for things that will stand out to them immediately. For example, if your loved one enjoys swimming and water fitness, make sure your prospective facilities have pools for residents. If a memory care facility’s website looks promising, go ahead and schedule a tour. 

Visit in Person: Take a Tour

Dementia care communities offer tours, so you can get a feel for the place your loved one may end up staying. Take advantage of that opportunity, as tours can give you a detailed look into how the facility is managed as well as its general atmosphere. 

When in-person tours are not possible, some communities offer virtual tours, which allow you to scope out the facility from the comfort of your home. 

Lastly, if at all possible, you should bring your loved one along for the tour. Their opinion matters most, and if they are lucid enough to chime in on each facility, let them. 

Ask About Amenities

The features of any memory care facility are essential for your loved one to stay enriched and engaged throughout all stages of their life, but amenities go beyond the basics of memory care. 
Some examples of memory care facility amenities include:

• Indoor and outdoor pools

• Recreation centers

• Dining options

• Outdoor trails and paths

• Group sports 

• Arts and crafts options

• Fitness and wellness centers

• Enjoyable hobbies

These additional qualities of dementia care communities will ensure your loved one has a great quality of life once they move. 

Transportation: Consider the Distance from Family

When selecting a memory care facility, don’t forget to take transportation into account. How will your other family members get there? Is the facility you’re focused on far from your hometown? 

Of course, that last part doesn’t necessarily mean you have to choose a memory care facility that is close to the rest of your family. If you find better dementia care that happens to be farther away, it can still work out well. Just make sure you discuss the transportation options and visiting plans with the rest of the family before committing to any memory care facility. 

Select the Best Possible Care for Those You Love

It’s always difficult to make decisions for your aging family members that need dementia care, but by choosing memory care, you choose to give them the best possible caregiving available. Use our tips to make the best choice for your loved one.

A New Way to Help Those with Alzheimer’s Recall Memories

An interesting study out of the University of Toronto, and reported by The Medical News Today, introduces a smartphone app for people with memory impairments that may help reinforce their memories of life events. Researchers explain the HippoCamera app imitates the function of the hippocampus by consolidating a person’s memories. The hippocampus is believed to repeatedly replay memories to the rest of the brain at a high speed to help stabilize them for long-term recall. 

Researchers explain the app works by recording everyday events in the person’s life and repeatedly playing them back to the person. They say the broader point of helping those with Alzheimer’s remember the events the HippoCamera recorded may be that remembering those things might result in a renewed ability to recall and share experiences. The lead study author, Dr. Chris Martin, says, “If you can better recall a specific moment from your recent past, you will have a stronger mental bridge between your present and past self.”

The study found people who used the app for two weeks experienced a 56% increase in their ability to recall the details of events recorded with the HippoCamera. People who used it for 70 consecutive days saw an 84% increase. Prof. Morgan D. Barense, senior investigator of the study and a cognitive neuropsychologist, says people also reported back the emotions they felt at the time and the people who were there. She adds their findings could encourage people to get into the habit of focusing on their memories and realizing there are simple things we can do to preserve memories.  

MorningStar at San Tomas takes a holistic approach to memory care starting with developing 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 opened to residents in spring and are now leasing. Please ask about our early depositor incentives.  

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-a-smartphone-app-may-help-boost-memory-recall#Why-strong-memories-are-important

Strategies to Deal with Sleep Problems for Individuals with Alzheimer’s

While we know many people with Alzheimer’s experience sleep problems, experts are not sure why. They only know the changes in the person’s brain somehow seem to affect sleep patterns. Studies suggest the most severe changes happen in the later stages of the disease but some people can develop problems early-on.

Types of changes include waking up at night more often and staying awake for longer periods. Brain wave studies show a decrease in both dreaming and non-dreaming sleep stages in Alzheimer’s patients. The person may feel restless and unable to lie still, resulting in behaviors like wandering or yelling and calling out. 

In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, many “individuals spend about 40 percent of their time in bed at night awake and a significant part of their daytime sleeping.” In some cases, a person may reverse their sleep pattern completely by sleeping during the day and being unable to sleep at night.  

The condition known as “sundowning” can cause a person to begin to feel agitated as dusk approaches and can go on throughout the night. Symptoms include an increase in confusion, anxiety, pacing and disorientation. Other problems triggering sleep disruptions may be from depression, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea. Most medical professionals including the NIH agree non-drug treatments are the safest solution as sleep medications can result in falls and other risk factors such as faster cognitive decline and outweigh their benefits.  

Measures to encourage a good night sleep include keeping routine hours for meals and bedtimes. Use the bed only as a place to sleep, and try to expose the person to morning sunlight. Daily exercise should help the person feel tired at night but do it at least four hours before bed as well as avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. Ensure the person is warm or cool enough and provide security items and nightlights.   

Our memory care facility, MorningStar at San Tomas, is dedicated to caring for seniors with memory impairment diseases. Please visit our website to learn more about our community, and to contact our team with questions you may have regarding holistic memory care. We open this spring and look forward to helping you reserve a select suite for your loved one as we are now leasing and offering Early Depositor Incentives.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes

Questions to Ask Your Doctor if You are Experiencing Memory Problems

If you or a loved one is having memory problems, experts say it is important to work closely with your healthcare providers to determine what is going on. If the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s, a treatment plan will need to be created. However as Alzheimer’s is a progress disease, it is important to understand the plan will most-likely need to be updated and amended.   

The Alzheimer’s Association explains the individual and their family members should be told of all available options along with the benefits and risks as the treatment plan evolves. The plan should take into account the person’s age and overall health, current medical conditions, treatment goals and the severity of symptoms and how they are impacting the person’s life. Another important consideration is the living situation of the person and the availability of the support they need. 

To get started on a personalized treatment plan, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a list of questions you can ask of your medical team. These include determining if medications will interfere with drugs already being taken for other medical conditions. Also ask about possible side effects and what to look for; and if the person experiences any, does it mean they will not be able to continue taking the drug? In addition are there any problems with starting one drug and beginning another?

Another question to ask the doctor is how much time is needed before it can be determined if the medication is working. Moreover, is there a time when it should be stopped? 

If a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia and you are seeking the finest memory care, we invite you to take a look at MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas. Our website offers lots of information regarding our memory care facility but we are available to answer any questions. We open to residents in spring and look forward to helping you reserve your select suite as we are NOW LEASING. Please ask us about Early Depositor Incentives.

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/questions-for-your-doctor

Studies Find a Link between Vitamin D & Cognitive Decline

Researchers are working hard to find the cause of Alzheimer’s as well as more effective treatments. The Medical News Today reports statistics show an estimated 6 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the US; and it is the sixth leading cause of death in America. Moreover the number is set to grow to 13 million by 2050 due to the country’s aging population. 

For the first time, an observational study has investigated the presence of vitamin D in the brain and its potential effect on cognitive outcomes. Before this study, scientists had been unsure if vitamin D was even present in the brain at all in spite of other research, which suggested a link between high blood levels of vitamin D and an association with less cognitive decline or dementia. The Tufts University in Massachusetts’s lead author, Kyla Shea, Ph.D. explains their observational study “found better cognitive function is associated with people who have higher concentrations of vitamin D in their brains.” 

The study reports finding “vitamin D in the mid-temporal cortex, mid-frontal cortex, the cerebellum and anterior watershed white of the brain, all of which have been implicated in different types and stages of dementia, including AD and dementia with Lewy bodies.” However the study researchers say there needs to be a larger study to further investigate the matter. 

For families in the San Jose area in need of trusted memory care, please consider MorningStar at West Valley. Our new memory care facility is designed from the ground up to care for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and is equipped to care for them from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. We are located in West San Jose with easy access to I-280 and the San Tomas Expressway and close to the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and O’Connor Hospital. Visit our website to reserve a select suite and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. We will open in spring 2023. 

Source: 

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-risk-low-levels-vitamin-d-linked-to-poor-cognitive-function?utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=dedicated&utm_content=2022-12-11&apid=32549197&rvid=e3b0c44298fc1c149afbf4c8996fb92427ae41e4649b934ca495991b7852b855

Did the Holidays Make You Aware Mom or Dad May Need More Care?

If so, you are not alone. Senior living experts say the holidays are a common way adult children realize mom or dad are not doing as well as they thought living on their own. Since it is the time of year we typically spend together as well as may have family members living out of state seeing the parent in-person for the first time in a while, it is easier to notice changes. 

If the family is surprised to discover a parent is not doing well living alone, don’t feel bad as many senior living communities report a heightened interest in getting mom or dad into a community after the holidays. Experts say look at the time spent together as just another preventive measure to ensure mom or dad are okay and that they have not experienced a noticeable decline in their physical or mental health.          

In 2020, the Joint Center for Housing Studies reported a list of things family members can look for in terms of the well-being of an older adult who lives alone. They found, “Single older adults living alone, are more likely to report difficulties with mobility (walking or climbing stairs), self-care (bathing, dressing, and getting around the home), and independent living (conducting errands such as shopping or visiting a doctor) than those of the same age living as couples. Other signs mom or dad are not doing well include unintended weight loss or problems taking medications. 

If you do have a parent suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia and it is time for more comprehensive care to ensure their safety and well-being, please consider the new MorningStar at West Valley. Our website has a virtual tour of what our memory care facility will look like once it opens to residents in the first quarter of 2023 along with lots of information about our philosophy and mission statement, MorningStar’s history and more. Once you decide to entrust MorningStar with the care of your loved one, we encourage you to reserve a select suite and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.

A Link between Hearing Loss and Dementia

JAMA Neurology recently added to the growing body of evidence showing a link between hearing loss and cognitive impairment. The new study found treating hearing loss with hearing aids may reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 19%. In fact researchers say hearing loss may be the biggest treatable factor for dementia. An article in AARP explains what may cause the link between hearing loss and dementia. 

The first theory regards socialization. Scientists say once a person starts having more difficulty being in a group of people and following the conversation, they may avoid such social gatherings. This in turn can lead to isolation, which in itself is problematic as less social engagement as well as less cognitively stimulating activities and depression are risk factors for dementia. 

Secondly, coping with hearing loss means the person is constantly working to sort out sounds and make sense of what is being said. The brain now may have “fewer resources (brain power) to help preserve thinking and memory abilities.” Scientists also believe hearing loss causes the brain to be less stimulated with sound information, which is linked with parts of the brain shrinking and atrophying faster with the chronic deprivation.  

While experts agree we still need more studies regarding the link between hearing loss and a higher risk for dementia, they do know that addressing a hearing issue with hearing aids is beneficial for the person’s overall quality of life. Moreover there are no negative medical issues associated with the devices.    

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 types of dementia. Our memory care is designed around the needs of residents through Lavender Sky, MorningStar’s approach to Memory Care, which incorporates Montessori-based therapies to help elevate and celebrate life. 

MorningStar at West Valley’s memory care facility will open to residents in spring 2023. Visit our website today to reserve a select suite for your loved one and ask about exclusive savings for early depositors.