Are Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Senility the Same Disease?

While most of us have heard of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and senility, we may still be confused wondering if they are all the same thing or different diseases. Doctors explain the terms are often used interchangeably but do have different meanings. Dementia describes a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms that impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities independently. While not an actual disease, the symptoms include memory loss, and difficulty with thinking clearly, making decisions and in some cases, controlling emotions. Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases or conditions.

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease and one form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. The disease was formally recognized in 1906 and named after the German physician, Aloïs Alzheimer, who first described it. Recent advances in medicine have found the brain can show signs of the disease years before the person experiences any symptoms. 

Dementia is typically irreversible but there are some conditions that can cause symptoms of the disease. These include a vitamin deficiency, underactive thyroid gland, depression or stress; and when treated, can reverse the condition. Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disease, may also cause symptoms of dementia as can AIDS, Lyme disease and stroke. 

Senility is another term used to describe the type of memory deterioration associated with the elderly. Experts explain there are two major types of senile dementia: “those due to generalized “atrophy” (Alzheimer’s-type dementia) and those due to vascular problems (mainly, strokes).” Symptoms of senility include a decline in cognitive abilities such as problems recalling information and thinking clearly; and Alzheimer’s is the most common form.  

MorningStar of Boulder offers experienced, compassionate care for those in the early onset of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases right through to the most advanced stages.  The Reflections Neighborhood at MorningStar is unique from many other assisted living communities as it is specifically designed to cater to the specialized needs of those suffering from memory impairment. We provide our tender residents a safe, comforting physical environment, trained caregivers, daily health monitoring, meaningful activities, wellness programs, community meals and more. Please contact us for more information and to set up a tour. 

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 one of the finest memory care and assisted living communities in Boulder.

Source: alzinfo.org/understand-alzheimers/dementia-vs-alzheimers/

What is Shingles?

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk of getting shingles sometime in your life. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the doctorate of occupational therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. 

Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk increases the older we get or with various health conditions. People undergoing cancer treatment as well as being ill or under a lot of stress are all at a higher risk for shingles. 

Symptoms vary and include feeling like you may have the flu, and/or a red, itchy, painful rash or fluid-filled blisters. Before the rash appears, you may feel an uncomfortable sensation, numbness or tingling, and may be the only symptoms you ever experience. Experts say shingles are not contagious but you can give someone chickenpox if they have never had it; but only if they come in direct contact with the fluid in the blisters such as through a washcloth or bed sheet. To ensure your safety, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccine if you are over the age of 50 or suffer from chronic diseases like renal failure, COPD and diabetes among others.

At MorningStar of Boulder, our goal is to be a true home distinguished by comfort, wellness and love; made possible through a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents with a quality-of-life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As memory care specialists, our community also provides suites in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder. 

The Value of Stretching for Older Adults

For many years, people thought stretching exercises were done mainly to help athletes avoid injuries. Research now shows the value of stretching for older adults. The Harvard School of Medicine’s journal reports that doing “simple stretches just two or three times a week can dramatically help anyone increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve the pain caused by muscle and joint stiffness.”  

Improving balance and increasing flexibility helps seniors retain the ability to do the things they need to do to remain as independent as possible. Studies show stretching can also improve circulation, muscle control and coordination. In fact, the Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults, which found participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also reported a decrease in pain.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercises including stretching. Once you get the go-ahead, experts say stretch at least 10 minutes twice a week; and do it after a five- or ten-minute walk or jog to warm up your muscles if possible. They say to take a deep breath, and to slowly exhale while holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Be sure not to stretch too far as to cause pain. For recommended stretches for seniors, check with your physical therapist or physician, or visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. 

MorningStar of Boulder has 48 assisted living suites, and another 46 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our beautiful community provides tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to meet the needs of residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. If you are looking at assisted living communities in the Boulder area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest assisted living communities in Boulder, CO.

Help Maintain and Enhance Memory Function

In an article in the US News & World Report, experts say forgetfulness is not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things we can do to help maintain and enhance our memory function and overall brain health.  Furthermore, they also benefit whole body health.      

One of the first things they recommend is to never stop making “physical activity a priority as it optimizes blood flow to the entire body, including the brain.  An adequate supply of blood and oxygen to the brain helps to keep our memories sharp.”  Researchers explain that the type of exercise is also important and recommend a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio exercise such as running, power walking, biking, or swimming.  However, before beginning any new exercise regime, be sure to check with your healthcare provider.  

In addition, continuing to learn new things can improve our memory as studies have found a correlation between challenging our brain and maintaining brain health.  This could include activities such as playing an instrument, starting a new hobby, learning a language, or just broadening your reading habits.  

Other advice that not only enhances cognitive thinking but overall health includes getting enough sleep each night.  Research has shown that “powering down on a nightly basis allows the brain to heal and restore itself, clearing toxins that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.”

MorningStar of Boulder’s goal is to be one of the best assisted living communities in the area, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  We offer Chef inspired all day dining, a range of care services, luxury amenities, and a complement of wellness programs and activities. Our community offers 48 stylish assisted living suites and 46 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment. Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest assisted living homes in Boulder, CO.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/maintaining-and-enhancing-memory

Separating Normal Memory Loss from Dementia

Experts say perhaps as many as 40 percent of adults over the age of 65 suffer from some level of memory loss, but are quick to add, it does not necessarily mean Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. They explain there are some noticeable characteristics separating normal memory loss from dementia.  

For instance, many older adults occasionally forget how to operate a piece of machinery or how to program a remote control if they have not done it in a while; but doctors say this is common and most-likely not a cause for concern. However, it is more concerning when a person forgets how to get home or how to perform routine tasks. 

It is normal to have to pause and think how to communicate a thought or idea but it is not normal to forget what you just said and continuously repeat yourself, or to not be able to finish a thought. Another sign the problem is more serious than normal forgetfulness is using the wrong word to describe something or forgetting the name altogether; as is forgetting names of family and friends. 

Another example of more than normal age-related forgetfulness is forgetting what an object is or what it is for. With normal memory loss, you may forget where you put your glasses; someone with Alzheimer’s may find their glasses and not recognize them as their own or forget they wear glasses. Experts caution even in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, people can have balance problems, and as the disease progresses, balance typically gets worse. A study found people with dementia were “8-times more likely to fall than older people who have not been diagnosed with a form of dementia.”   

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Jordan has 29 secure suites devoted to individualized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to accommodate the needs of our residents and encourages and supports their independence while keeping them safe.   If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, please visit our website for more information about our experienced, compassionate memory care in Centennial, CO.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: activebeat.com/your-health/normal-aging-vs-alzheimers-6-key-differences

Why You Should See a Doctor if You Suspect Memory Loss

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain that while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also, they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition, recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

Along with independent living and assisted living, MorningStar at RidgeGate provides loving memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  For trusted seniors living in Lone Tree, CO, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar at RidgeGate represents the finest in senior living with our unique mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents.  Visit our website for more information about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Lone Tree, CO

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Individualized, Compassionate Memory Care at MorningStar of Boulder

Along with assisted living, Boulder, CO’s MorningStar community offers 46 secure suites in a range of floor plans for the comprehensive care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our home is honored to provide individualized, compassionate care for residents from the earliest stages of the disease to the most advanced. 

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

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

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

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

MorningStar of Boulder’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other memory care and assisted living Boulder, CO offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we encourage you to contact us to learn more.

Exceptional Assisted Living & Memory Care in Centennial, CO

MorningStar at Jordan’s goal is to be one of the best senior living communities in Centennial, CO. We attribute our success to God’s grace and to staying true to our mission of servant-leadership. To help us accomplish these lofty goals, we are blessed to have a team of individuals with big hearts and a true love for seniors. 

Our founding principles are based on “casting a new light” on senior living and treating each resident with the utmost respect and dignity. We belief the human capacity to grow, to learn and contribute is ageless; and we act upon this truth daily as we care for, inspire and love the residents under our roof. At MorningStar we want seniors to recognize they are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream.

We take great pride in a reputation for excellence and authenticity in both how we serve and why we serve throughout our MorningStar communities across the Western U.S. Specializing in compassionate care delivered by our distinguished team and guided by our proprietary program “Radiance,” we know the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing with others our talents, time and energy. 

As people are living longer than any other time in history (by 2055 90 million Americans will be 55+ and the number of people 75 to 85 is set to triple), senior living is quickly becoming a popular option for older adults. Residents appreciate predictable budgeting, resort-style amenities and services, companionship and a home where they can safely age in place.

Seniors’ wellbeing, comfort and safety are something MorningStar at Jordan takes very seriously.  Our beautiful community has 55 stylish assisted living suites as well as 29 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us today to see how we can help support you or a loved one.  

MorningStar at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand one of the area’s finest senior living communities.

Promising News About the Number of New Cases of Dementia

Researchers are studying promising news that indicates a decline in the number of new cases of dementia. The Aug. 4, 2020, issue of Neurology published a report from the Alzheimer's Research Consortium, which looked at data from people over the age of 65 in both Europe and North America. Their findings show the percentage of people diagnosed with dementia has dropped 13% every 10 years over the past 30 years.

This does not mean that dementia is not a widespread problem. As life expectancy has increased along with the number of people on the planet, so has the number of adults with dementia increased. However, what researchers are pleased to see after looking at seven different studies is that new cases are actually lower than what we had been expecting based on the rate of the increases of several decades ago. Scientists believe that the decline may be due to “treatment for dementia risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation.”

If you are looking for care for a family member with Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan. Along with assisted living, we provide compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. Our 29 secure, memory care suites are equipped to care for your loved one from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.

MorningStar’s unique approach to memory care includes finding ways to connect with and nurture the individual essence of each resident, and our energy is put toward finding ways to celebrate and elevate life. Along with individualized care plans, residents receive 24-hour care, daily health monitoring, access to a full-time nurse, and participate in wellness programs and services tailored to their special needs. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Jordan offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. We encourage you to give us a call for more information on unparalleled assisted living and memory care in Centennial, CO.

Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/dementia-declining-in-the-united-states

Changing Attitudes About Dementia

While a 2012 survey found that more Americans fear Alzheimer’s disease than they do cancer, many professionals are starting to rethink their attitude toward the disease. Bill Thomas, a geriatrician who is trying to reframe people’s view on aging, says for many the disease has been “swathed in shame” and stuck in what he call “the tragedy narrative.” Without dismissing the challenges of the disease, he and other experts say that it may be beneficial to both caregivers and patients to take an adaptive approach to dealing with Alzheimer’s that is more flexible, spontaneous, and expansive.

Mary Fridley, co-creator of a workshop called The Joy of Dementia (You’ve Got to Be Kidding!), stresses that in spite of the fact that we know dementia to be extremely painful, she feels too much time is spent on medicalizing the disease. Rather she truly believes “it is an opportunity, if people so choose, to be improvisational, to be silly, to play, to free ourselves from the constraints of truth and knowing and assumptions.”

One study out of Canada supports this premise by reporting that dementia patients’ symptoms declined and their psychologically outlook greatly improved after 12-weeks of visits from “elder clowns” who engage them with empathy, humor, and improvisation. Another recent study from Australia found that “dementia-care staff with positive attitudes and ‘person-centered’ strategies felt more competent about their ability to provide care.”

MorningStar at Jordan provides compassionate, individualized care for those with mild to advanced memory impairment in Centennial, CO. Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to comfort and heal as we find ways to help residents celebrate life and experience spontaneous moments of joy. If a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help, please contact us.

MorningStar at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.

Source: mercurynews.com/2019/02/21/a-joyful-existence-with-alzheimers-yes-joyful/

MorningStar of Boulder's Memory Care

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder, we compassionately and professionally provide memory care to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents.  As such, it means we can encourage and support independence as much as possible and let residents move freely about their environment.  Our community has 46 secure suites in a range of floor plans.  

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

MorningStar’s memory care includes leveraging the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy and animals to heal and comfort residents.  Our specially-trained care team understands that the essence of the person still exists despite the memory loss, and will strive every day to connect with and nurture that essence.    

We also proudly support the Alzheimer’s Association and partner with our local chapter to fundraise and participate in a variety of activities all throughout the year.  In addition, MorningStar makes it a point to find ways to involve and engage family members as we recognize that our service is as important to them as to the residing senior.

While we have had to make many changes to our community due to the coronavirus pandemic, MorningStar is carefully following suit with each state’s phasing and pacing where our communities are located. We are still accepting new residents, confident in our protective protocols.  If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Boulder, Colorado’s MorningStar community encourages you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about our loving home.

MorningStar of Boulder proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Boulder, Colorado offers.

MorningStar of Boulder is Designed for Your Comfort & Wellbeing

MorningStar of Boulder’s goal is to be one of the best retirement communities Boulder has to offer, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  To accomplish this lofty goal, our approach takes into account every aspect of senior living from the design of our gorgeous community to a broad range of care services, amenities, and wellness programs.  In fact, Ken Jaeger, MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder, had specific ideas on how to foster the ultimate environment for the wellbeing of seniors and it is the guiding spirit in which our community operates on.

Add to that, our dedicated team members who are the heartbeat of our community and the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  They understand it is a privilege to serve and many come to know and treat our residents as they do their own moms and dads.  As a true home, we consider our residents, their families and team members to be part of the MorningStar of Boulder’s family.      

And as a loving home, we don’t want you to think that with everything going on in the world, we have forgotten how to have fun.  Nothing could be further from the truth as you will see when you take a look at our home page or Facebook.  For example, we had a great time saying goodbye to the “dog days of summer” with a visiting pet dog parade.  It was so much fun and the residents talked about the dogs for days!

MorningStar of Boulder offers 48 private assisted living suites and 46 secure suites devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please see our website for more information about our exceptional community.  While you are there, you may read the statement from our CEO which details our defense against the coronavirus to help ensure the health of residents and team members during this difficult time.

MorningStar of Boulder proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement communities Boulder CO offers.

Specialized Memory Care in Boulder, Colorado

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Boulder offers individualized, specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes.  

Our Reflections Neighborhood is clustered in a separate area of our community and is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease.  The expansive area houses 46 secure suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings.  

Normally, mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. During the coronavirus outbreak, however, memory care residents still take meals in the dining room with tables spread out for social distancing.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and include finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

As dementia care specialists, we focus on nurturing and supporting the essence of the individual, regardless of the level of memory loss.  In order to create an effective individualized care plan to guide our daily interactions and communication techniques, we meet with the senior and their family to learn as much as we can about the person’s background, talents and preferences even before they join our community.  Our specialized care incorporates music, art, dance, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents while taking into account the uniqueness of each person.   

Another thing that makes MorningStar of Boulder a special place for memory care is our loving, compassionate team who feels privileged to serve and is made up of men and women who willingly go the extra mile to meet the needs of our residents.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Boulder represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, 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 within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Boulder.   

Welcome Home to MorningStar of Boulder

For the area’s finest assisted living, Boulder Colorado area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar of Boulder, a true destination for successful aging.  If you are new to the name MorningStar allow us to introduce ourselves.  MorningStar Senior Living was founded in 2003 by Ken Jaeger whose intention was to create senior housing that felt like the loving atmosphere of his grandmother’s Midwest home.  We now have 25+ senior living communities scattered throughout the Western US.  

We sincerely believe our astounding success is attributed to a mission statement of honoring God in our business practices and relationships; valuing all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and investing in our team's ability to serve well.  MorningStar communities are also deliberate in the type of culture we strive to create, which is why it is important for us to hire individuals that believe residents are to be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.   

MorningStar of Boulder offers 48 bright suites for assisted living, and each of our stylish apartments is a true home designed to provide residents privacy, comfort, and security.  We also have a whole range of resort-style amenities such as an onsite theatre/chapel, bistro, fitness room, general store, salon and more.  For residents’ convenience, we have scheduled transportation, and offer beautiful prepared meals served restaurant-style under the direction of our Executive Chef.

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 46 secure suites dedicated to those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  We have a deep understanding of the disease and feel it is our calling, and privilege to provide compassionate, loving care to our most tender residents.  Located on the southeast side of Boulder, our community is nestled at the foot of the majestic Rockies and conveniently located to hospitals, banks, shopping, restaurants, and grocery stores as well as services in Longmont. Please see our website for more information. 

MorningStar of Boulder 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 memory care and assisted living Boulder Colorado has to offer.

Today's Elderly Have Seen a Lot in Their Lifetime

Many of us are lucky to have family or friends that are well into their 90s or even a 100 + years old.   They are not alone as in 2014, the CDC reported there were 72,197 Americans aged 100 or older. Also, according to 2017 projections from the Social Security Administration, it reads, “For those who are 65 today, a man has a 3% chance of living to 100, a woman a 5.9% chance, and at least one member of a couple an 8.7%.”   

When we take the time to think about the many changes that have occurred over the last hundred years, it is incredible to think we know someone who has lived through much of it.  During the 1920s, most Americans lived in rural settings or in small towns, and all members of the families worked in one form or another including children who had routine duties around the farm or in the house.  Imagine the Ford Model T, which was considered to be the first affordable car that our grandparents may have rode in as children and the cars they drive today.  In addition, they were old enough to be captivated by the first transatlantic airplane flight made by Charles Lindbergh in 1927.  

Our parents or grandparents have lived through world wars and world depressions, saw airline travel become an everyday convenience and men land on the moon.  They saw the start of the computer age and witnessed the impact of the world wide web.  Together these are some of the reasons why MorningStar of Boulder believes seniors are heroes—men and women who have exacted out of life all its triumphs and trials.   Moreover, it is why we believe if anyone deserves honor and respect, it is our seniors. 

If you are looking for outstanding memory care or assisted living, Boulder Colorado’s MorningStar of Boulder encourages you to contact us or visit our website to learn more about our exceptional community.

MorningStar of Boulder 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 for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Boulder Colorado offers.

Does Your Elderly Loved One Love Cats or Dogs?

Have you been searching for something for your elderly mom or dad that would provide some comfort and help ease their feelings of loneliness and isolation?  While you may think now is not the best time for them to assume the responsibilities of a new pet, you may want to take a look at one of the many “robotic pets” in the marketplace. 

We know there has been a lot of research that supports the idea pet ownership is beneficial to seniors and a loving pet is a great companion.  Now researchers have also discovered that robotic pets may provide the elderly with many of the same benefits live animals do.   A 2017 study found that the interaction between older adults and animals, whether real or robotic, helped lower blood pressure, eased anxiety, reduced feeling of loneliness and improved the overall quality of life. 

The advantage of a low-maintenance robot dog or cat is they are easy for seniors with little to no tech savvy to “care for.”  The realistic pets do little tricks such as a robotic dog who wags its tail, raises its eyebrow when you pet it, has a heartbeat, and makes a barking noise.  For people with dementia, robotic pets have helped ease agitation and anxiety and seem to have a calming influence. 

In fact, New York’s Department for the Aging (DFTA) was so impressed with the pets that they implemented a program to distribute mechanical dogs and cats to a number of seniors with the aim of easing loneliness. The DFTA’s Commissioner, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez explains, “For the older person, social isolation really has a devastating effect on their health.”  

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living or memory care, MorningStar of Boulder encourages you to contact us or visit our website for more information about our loving community. Along with 48 assisted living suites, MorningStar of Boulder offers 46 secure suites dedicated to the specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We are now accepting new residents and are confident in our COVID-19 protocols. We continue to stay abreast of COVID-19 developments and evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors.

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our outstanding assisted living and memory care community.

Virtual Healthcare

Lots of changes are going on regarding the way we are leading our day-to-day lives including visits to our healthcare providers.  Chances are good that if you have a scheduled visit to your physician, you may be told that it will be a virtual telehealth visit as many physicians have substantially cut back on in-person office visits.  

While the concept may seem new, you may be surprised to learn that the Lancet medical journal first discussed the possibility of using the telephone as a way to lessen unnecessary office or home visits in 1879, three years after Alexander Graham invented the telephone.   Now with the outbreak of COVID-19 and telehealth visits quickly gaining popularity, experts offer some guidance on what to expect and tips to make sure you are prepared for your “visit.”  

First, in order to participate in a telemedicine appointment, you need at a minimum a telephone line.  Ideally, high-speed internet and video access through a smartphone, tablet or computer allows you to connect visually.  Also your provider needs to tell you what app to download before your visit.  

Moreover, just like a regular in-office visit, doctors recommend making a list of topics you wish to go over with your healthcare provider.  Dr. Gary LeRoy, an associate professor of family medicine at Wright State University and president of the American Academy of Family Physicians, advises patients to ask themselves, “‘why do you need to be seen today; and what's the biggest priority?”  He suggests keeping a symptom diary of when the problem first developed and what seems to aggravate or alleviate the symptoms, etc.   Also make your call in a quiet place where you will not be interrupted, and have on hand any devices you use including thermometer, blood pressure cuff, glucometer, etc.  

If you need a mammogram, colonoscopy, or other procedures that require in-person care, experts recommend postponing them until we are in a better place in terms of the current health crisis.  However, they stress that emergencies are still emergencies including “sudden chest pains, weakness in one side of the face or body, or a sudden thunder-clap headache. These are all red-alert symptoms that could signal a heart attack or stroke,” and require immediate medical attention.  

MorningStar of Boulder 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 memory care and assisted living Boulder Colorado offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/conditions/articles/a-beginners-guide-to-a-virtual-doctors-visit

MorningStar of Boulder Offers Loving Memory Care

MorningStar of Boulder is proud to offer exceptional assisted living and memory care.  Our parent company, MorningStar Senior Living, operates senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar of Boulder benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained in their 17 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling to provide care to our most special residents.  By devoting a separate area to memory care called our Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.  To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure patio and courtyard to allow them to enjoy the outdoors.

Our holistic approach to dementia care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  We also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.

We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  Please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Contact us to learn more about our outstanding assisted living and memory care community.

Is it Time for Assisted Living?

If you have become responsible for more and more of the caregiving duties for an elderly parent or another loved one, it may be time to consider a change.  Today’s senior living options include assisted living that provides daily help with personal care, and actually helps residents regain their sense of independence.  Moreover, senior living communities like MorningStar of Boulder provide much more than just physical care.  Along with a wealth of amenities and services, it is designed to feel like a real home.  

Our first priority is to ensure your loved one gets the care they need.  This starts with a thorough evaluation of their medical and personal history, followed by a care plan approved by you and your parent.  MorningStar’s services also help out our families by providing transportation to doctor appointments as well as offer scheduled physician visits, choice of physicians, pharmacy services, and onsite dental and podiatry care.  

Our services also include providing housekeeping to help ensure residents’ homes are tidy and clean.  By taking care of meals, we see to it your loved one gets the daily nutrition they need.  We also offer assistance with another common problem many seniors experience when living alone, which is forgetting to or improperly taking medications.  We solve this by offering medication management services.  

Currently we are safely accepting new residents, and are confident in our protocols and procedures in fighting the coronavirus (COVID-19). As the nation slowly reopens, MorningStar of Boulder is judiciously following Colorado’s guidance in terms of phasing and pacing.   We continue to stay abreast of developments and evaluate best practices and innovations in our services to seniors.  

Please visit our website for more information about the finest assisted living Boulder Colorado offers.  Our community offers 48 bright suites for assisted living and 46 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  

MorningStar of Boulder 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 assisted living Boulder Colorado has to offer.

Signs Your Loved One May Have Hearing Loss

If you think your spouse or an elderly parent may be suffering from hearing loss (keep in mind it is extremely common in seniors), the AARP has some good tips to help you decide if it is time to convince them to see a doctor.  The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders states that approximately 1 in 3 people between 65 and 74 years of age, and nearly half of those older than 75, have trouble hearing. 

While we may think it should be easy for someone to know if they are experiencing hearing loss, the problem is that the loss generally occurs slowly over time.  Thus as a person starts having trouble hearing, they self-correct by doing things like turning up the volume on the TV, and is why it is often other people who are the first to suspect a problem.  

Experts say it is important to get help for hearing loss as it is treatable and can lead to social isolation, which is linked to depression, dementia, and even falls.  In addition to the volume turned way up on the TV and radio, doctors say other signs include the person constantly asking you to repeat yourself and having difficulty following conversation.  The person may start talking louder than a situation calls for or be uncomfortable talking on the phone.  They may also be unable to hear an alarm, the phone ringing or the doorbell. 

People can be reluctant to go to a doctor for hearing loss for a variety of reasons including the cost of a hearing aid, the bother of wearing one and being afraid it will make them feel old.  Stefanie Wolf, AuD, a clinical audiologist with Audiology of Nassau County in Rockville Centre, New York, says to “remind your loved one that treating hearing loss isn't just about improving their ability to perceive sounds; it can contribute to their overall health and well-being.”

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting by creating a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.   Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional community.

Source: aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/hearing-loss-common-signs.html