Autumn Activities : Embracing the Golden Moments in Lakewood, CO
The best time of year has arrived! Autumn in Lakewood, CO, unfolds in a burst of colors, bringing a crispness that stirs memories and evokes a sense of nostalgia. Whether our beloved seniors are in assisted living in Lakewood, enjoying senior living in Lakewood, or availing services from memory care in Lakewood, this season can be a time of rejuvenation, joy, and new experiences.
Here are some delightful autumn activities tailored for the senior living community to immerse themselves in the magic of this beautiful time of year.
Nature Walks: Senior living in Lakewood boasts scenic spots perfect for gentle strolls. The falling leaves and cool breeze can be therapeutic and enriching.
Craft Sessions: Autumn provides a myriad of crafting opportunities. From leaf prints to making wreaths, seniors can channel their creativity and even involve their families and friends in these projects.
Cooking and Baking: Seasonal recipes can bring warmth to chilly days. Pumpkin pies, apple crisps, or even roasted chestnuts can be delightful treats to make and share.
Memory Sharing Sessions: For those in memory care in Lakewood, this season can be an excellent time to share old stories. Bring out those photo albums, sip hot cocoa, and let the memories flow.
Festive Decorations: Engage in festive preparations for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Carving pumpkins, making turkey crafts, or setting up autumn-themed table centers can be fun and engaging.
Music and Dance: Arrange for local musicians to perform autumn-themed music or even classics from the yesteryears.
Visiting Local Festivals: With the proper assistance, seniors can enjoy these local events, soaking in the festivities.
Book Clubs: With the days getting shorter, it’s an excellent time to catch up on reading. Starting a friendly book club within the assisted living in Lakewood or senior living in Lakewood communities can be a perfect way for residents to bond.
Outdoor Games: Games like horseshoes, bocce ball, or even simple bean bag toss can be enjoyed in the open air, ensuring fun and mild exercise combined with the fabulous autumn weather.
Picnics: Arrange picnics in local parks. The colorful backdrop and fresh air can be invigorating. Pack warm drinks, sandwiches, and seasonal fruits for a delightful outing.
For all our seniors in Lakewood, CO, autumn can be a season of warmth, connection, and new memories. Embrace the season and make the most of the golden moments it offers.
Luxury Senior Living at MorningStar of Mission Viejo
MorningStar of Mission Viejo, a vibrant 55+ community, has a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays. We want prospective residents and their families to know we are here to answer all their questions, and once the decision is made to join our community, we provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition.
Our apartments for independent living offer seniors a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. It also provides peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself needing help with daily personal care; we can make sure you get it.
Moreover, contrary to what many think about assisted living, it is designed to help seniors maintain their sense of independence. By providing assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), residents can focus on living their life to the fullest. Upon joining our community, residents have an Individualized Care Plan created for them after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their family.
Finally, we proudly provide comprehensive memory care families trust with suites dedicated to caring for our most tender residents. To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained in the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care. Our community is equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. In fact, every aspect of our memory care is designed around the needs of each resident from our physical environment, activities and programs, meals, and more.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo’s first-class amenities start with Executive Chef inspired meals which are served all day in our beautiful full-service dining room. We also have a theater, art studio, fitness center, and scheduled transportation. In addition, we have a billiards room, salon and multiple dining venues. Amidst our beautiful grounds we have a swimming pool and relaxing courtyards. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Mission Viejo, CA.
Senior-Friendly Creative Outlets
As a senior, it is absolutely vital to your quality of life to stay mentally active, creative, and have hobbies and activities you can participate in whenever you want to. Having and fostering the growth of all of these things can help you improve your quality of life, mental health, and even your physical health. However, if you are a senior living in Lakewood and you have no creative outlets, keep reading for some inspiration on ways you can start to introduce more creativity into your life.
Take a Variety of Classes
If you are curious about anything at all, try taking a class for it! This can be especially amazing for seniors who spent a lot of their time working, rather than having the freedom to pursue their passions. These classes do not necessarily need to be “creative,” per se, but they should be about things that interest you and get your mind moving. If learning new things about history is exciting for you, then a historical class could be a great way to get your creative juices flowing, and your mind focused on something new and engaging.
Try Writing and/or Drawing
Writing and/or drawing are amazing ways to get emotions and creativity down on some kind of paper or canvas—or even in a digital way. Try writing/typing down whatever goes through your mind, whether it be fictional stories, music/songs, personal experiences, jokes, comments, etc. If you are more into blending shapes and colors, try doing some doodles, or even an involved piece of art. If you enjoy doing any of these things, keep going and see how much better you can become! Any way of getting your creativity flowing through writing or drawing, can be a wonderful way to engage with more parts of your brain, and get in touch with undiscovered parts of your inner self.
Crafty VS Practical
Another way to gauge the way your creativity flows is to try hobbies that are crafty vs hobbies that are practical. For example, cooking and sewing/crocheting/knitting can be considered practical hobbies, since they can provide meals and cloth items. Other creative pursuits that are more on the crafty side could include flower arranging, coloring/painting, origami, macrame, and more! Just give anything that interests you a try, and see what brings you the most joy.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. 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, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Health Benefits of Green Tea
As a senior, it can be a struggle to find ways to hydrate that are enjoyable and easy. However, with green tea, not only are you getting a lot of water content, but you are also getting all the benefits that this kind of tea can provide. So if you are a senior living in Lakewood, keep reading for more valuable information about all the amazing health benefits of green tea.
Green Tea Wakes up Your Brain
The naturally occurring caffeine content of green tea can be a great way to help promote alertness. This can help your brain support the production of dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are used to help balance things like mood, memory, reflexes, alertness, and more! Plus, norepinephrine is also a hormone, which can work twice as well for helping regulate your mental capacities. So next time you are feeling a bit tired, slow, and/or run down, the caffeine from green tea could be a great way to get out of a funk.
Green Tea is Full of Antioxidants
Free radicals are toxins that can build up in our bodies for all kinds of reasons. They can come from the air we breathe, food we eat, products we use, and even certain medications. However, by exercising regularly, hydrating, and eating healthy foods high in antioxidants, you can reduce and even get rid of the free radicals in your system. This is where green tea can come in especially handy. The antioxidants in green tea can help your body get a detox from free radicals that may be building up.
Green Tea Supports Oral Health
Another great benefit of green tea is that it contains substances that can help support oral health. These substances are called catechins; and they help promote bone health, as well as being highly antibacterial. These can help you stay on top of your oral health, and may help you prevent a lot of tooth decay. This can be a valuable tool to combat the effects age can have on dental health. As we get older, our teeth can start to decay and loosen very quickly. However, with a healthy oral health routine, and a daily cup of green tea, you can take advantage of all the benefits that will help keep your oral health at its peak.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. 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, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Best Natural Sugar Substitutes for Seniors
Bleached, and “refined” sugar is something most of us could benefit from consuming less of. However, it is part of many different recipes and foods we all enjoy. For any senior living in Lakewood, sugar substitutes can provide some of the flavors you want, but they can also often be just as bad or even worse for your health. So below, we will be discussing some of the best natural sugar substitutes that are free of GMOs and artificial ingredients. (Of course, if you are a diabetic senior, these sugars may not be safe/healthy for you. Always consult with your primary care physician before making any dietary or lifestyle changes that could impact your health.)
Agave Syrup
Agave syrup is made from the agave plant, and in my opinion, it is the closest in flavor to raw cane sugar. However, agave has a sweeter taste than sugar, and is not made into granules. While this natural sugar substitute may not be a good option for diabetics, it can be a great, long-lasting alternative to processed sugar. You can use less of it in your recipes, since it is sweeter; and you do not have to worry about harmful or artificial additives. Just be sure to check the ingredients, and confirm it is only agave syrup.
Coconut Sugar
Coconut sugar is generally processed very little, and can be a great alternative for white table sugar. The fact that it is usually unprocessed also means that it still has all the vitamins and minerals of coconuts! This means you can actually get a little bit of micronutrients by using this type of sugar in small amounts. Of course, any sugar should be consumed in moderation, but it can be nice to know that you are getting a little bit of good with your “bad.” Of course, coconut sugar should not be eaten by the spoonful, but as an alternative to sugar, it can be a wonderful choice.
Date Paste
Speaking of healthier natural sugar alternatives, date paste is the sugar substitute that you will wish you knew about sooner! Due to the natural high sugar content of dates, they can actually be used to make a deliciously sweet paste that can be used in place of sugar for just about anything. Dates are also a fantastic source of many nutrients such as fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamin B6, copper, and more! So, by utilizing more date paste over bleached and processed sugar, you can make your sweets just a little more healthy than they would have been. Again, remember to be sparing and moderate with your sugar intake—no matter what kind of sugar you use!
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. 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, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Aromatherapy for Seniors
Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to set a mood, and create a specific atmosphere without the use of flame candles. Flame candles can also be great, but if you are looking for a way to avoid the hazards of open flames in your home or senior living community, essential oil diffusers and wax melts can be the perfect option. Certain scents are known for offering general feelings of peace, focus, happiness, and more. For example, lavender is very commonly used in aromatherapy for sleep, stress relief, and other calming blends. If you are a senior living in Lakewood, keep reading for more information on aromatherapy for seniors.
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils have been used for their beneficial effects for centuries, and many people find great results by incorporating them into their daily wellness routine. However, if you are not familiar with what essential oils are, here is a quick definition:
Essential oils are concentrated oils that naturally occur in all plants. They are usually extracted through a steam distillation or cold press process, and should only be used if they are completely organic. Many brands of essential oils exist today, so it is vital to do proper research before purchasing.
In addition to researching brands, it is also very important to speak with your primary care physician before incorporating essential oils into your wellness routine. Some people have allergies to certain plants, and some medications can interact negatively with them as well. Make sure you get a second opinion from a licensed holistic physician as well, so you are able to get all the benefits you possibly can.
How Can Aromatherapy Help?
Aromatherapy is actually much more common than you might think. Many places such as spas, doctor’s offices, and even stores can implement aromatherapy to encourage visitors to feel a certain way. For example, a spa could use citrus and floral essential oils to invite happy, peaceful emotions to their customers.
Another great benefit of aromatherapy can have great results for seniors in memory care in Lakewood. Our sense of smell is often connected to certain memories, and by smelling certain scents, it can become easier to remember things from the past. Of course, this is no replacement for traditional therapies and memory care procedures. However, it can be a fantastic tool to use in addition to other memory care treatments.
Being a senior can come with a lot of its own stresses and difficulties. Aromatherapy can be a wonderful way to build new memories and atmospheres where you need it most. For example, if the smell of eucalyptus helps you feel calmer, try wearing an aromatherapy necklace for things that make you feel stressed out and upset. I personally love using citrus with a tiny hint of lavender for particularly nerve wracking doctor’s appointments.
Creative Ways to Incorporate Aromatherapy
For seniors in assisted living in Lakewood, finding ways to safely incorporate aromatherapy into your life may require some creative thinking. So, here are a few ways you can try aromatherapy without needing to use any flame or heat sources:
Aromatherapy Baths
Aromatherapy Jewelry
Aromatherapy Pillow/Stuffie
Carry-Around Item (Carry the bottles, or an absorbent item with a few drops on it)
Diffusers
Essential Oil Massage
Essential Oil Rollers/Sprays
As you can see, it is super easy to start using essential oils, and figure out what works best for you and your personal needs as a senior. Just get creative, and come up with your own blends to suit every mood and situation!
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving aWe have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
Trusted Senior Living at MorningStar of Hayward
MorningStar Senior Living has been serving seniors for over 20 years. We have 40+ communities operating or under construction across eleven states including seven in California. We are proud of the reputation our homes have earned with residents and their families alike and would like to tell you more about MorningStar’s independent living, memory care and assisted living in Hayward, CA.
MorningStar communities are trusted for their excellence–and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Our dedicated team understands the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing our time and talents in service to others; and recognize the professional and personal satisfaction this calling brings.
Our company was started in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO, who wished to “cast a new light” on senior living by creating senior housing that felt like his grandmother’s house –true homes filled with light, love and compassion. To accomplish this, we are inspired and empowered by our mission to:
Honor God in our business practices and relationships
Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals
Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well
MorningStar of Hayward offers independent and assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs and activities. Residents enjoy spacious common areas including a billiards lounge, ice cream parlor, theatre, outdoor dining deck, garage parking and relaxing courtyards. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood provides experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents.
Our beautiful home is ideally located in the heart of Hayward and offers scenic views in every direction, including the Bay and the San Francisco skyline as well as the beautiful Hayward Japanese Gardens. Visit our website to learn more about our community as well as our commitment to serving seniors, the local community, and others across the globe.
MorningStar of Hayward represents the very best in senior living. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Contact us for more information about the finest independent living, memory care and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Planning for The Future as a Senior
Future planning is a very vital step to take as you age. This is especially true if you are about to retire, or are already retired. Once you are no longer bringing in a working income, you will have to rely on things like social security, savings, and the possibility of making money with a side hustle. However, planning for the future can feel overwhelming. So in this blog, we will be discussing some of the basics that you should have in place to protect your future as a senior living in Lakewood. Keep reading to learn more about what you should consider as you plan for your future.
Where Do You Want to Live?
Knowing where you want to spend your senior years is a very important part of future planning as a senior. You have to consider your lifestyle, and whether you are wanting to age in place, or possibly move to a smaller home, or an assisted/independent living community that caters to your needs. There are many different possibilities when it comes to senior living, so make sure you research what is available in your area; and decide what would be the best fit for your needs and finances. It is also important to consider the possibility of moving with beloved pets, and/or even a companion/significant other.
Are You Prepared for Healthcare/Emergency Costs?
No matter how old or young you are, planning for emergencies is a very vital part of life. However, as a senior, it is possible that the likelihood of an emergency occurring is even higher than it was when you were younger. Our bodies are not as strong as we age, so small injuries can easily become more serious without proper attention. In addition to this, it is possible to develop health issues as we age as well. All of this possible medical treatment will require money, however, and it is important to be prepared for as much as you possibly can. Keep up with regular checkups, and make sure you are always in communication with your doctor about new or changing health concerns. This can help you be more prepared for when an emergency does occur.
What Will Your Hobbies Be?
Having hobbies and things to do as a senior is a perfect way to stay active mentally and physically as a senior. One of the biggest struggles many seniors in retirement have is that they feel like they have no purpose in life, or they feel lonely and bored without having to go to work every day. This is why it is so very important to engage in hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Make sure you always set money aside to use for things that make you happy. We only get one life, and we should always be mindful of making the most of it. Enjoy your golden years–don’t just be waiting for the next problem to come around the corner!
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. 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, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
How Much Water Should Seniors be Drinking?
Dehydration is something that is a very common problem in the elderly community. There are many factors that contribute to this problem; so in this blog, we will be discussing how much water you need as a senior and why. If you are a senior living in Lakewood, keep reading to learn more about how to be proactive about dehydration.
What Causes Dehydration in Seniors?
Dehydration in seniors can be caused by a number of things. Here are a few of the most common:
As we age, our bodies do not process and use fluids as efficiently as they used to. This means you may not feel as thirsty when you actually need fluids. It also means that your kidneys will not function as well, and will fail to concentrate your urine as much to avoid fluid loss when you are dehydrated. These issues then come together to compound your dehydration even more. If you are not thirsty, you will not feel like or think about drinking water; and the water you do have in your body is not being kept in your body as long as it should to be beneficial.
Another common problem that causes dehydration in seniors is the side effects of certain conditions and even medications. Many conditions can create a lot of pain, which can make even simple tasks such as drinking difficult. Incontinence is another issue that may contribute to dehydration. Since it can feel debilitating to not have bladder control, many seniors start to avoid fluids so they can urinate less. This can actually be quite harmful, and dehydrate you even more. Medications can also play a role in the dehydration of seniors. If you require more fluids on certain medications, and you are not proactive, you could be doing more harm than good. Some medications can also cause dehydrating side effects such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting, diarrhea, night sweats, etc.
How Can Seniors Get More Fluids?
So, with all these things in mind, how can those in assisted living in Lakewood make sure they are staying hydrated? It is actually much easier than you might think! If just plain water is something that is difficult for you to handle for full hydration, there are a few other things you can do to get fluids in your body. Here are some other foods you can use to stay hydrated, and avoid the health risks of being dehydrated as a senior:
Melons
Soups
Teas
Cucumbers
Juices
Smoothie Bowls
Celery
Berries
Oranges
Peaches
Pineapples
Bell Peppers
Squash
Electrolyte Drinks (physician directed)
Keep in mind that nothing beats plain water when it comes to hydration, and the above list is just a way to supplement more fluids to help prevent dehydration.
How Much Water is Enough?
A good rule of thumb when it comes to knowing whether you have had enough water is to aim for half your weight in ounces each day. So, if you weigh 100 pounds, you need at least 50 ounces of water every day. If you have had a very busy and active day, it can be a good idea to have a bit more to make up for any sweating and other fluid losses you have had that are more than usual.
Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Lakewood has to offer. 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, MorningStar at Applewood provides outstanding assisted living and memory care in Lakewood.
About MorningStar Senior Living
While there are many senior living options in Boise, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Boise is under the management of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, an experienced company with 40+ senior communities in operation or under development across eleven states.
MorningStar Senior Living was started in 2003 based on a unique mission statement, principles and philosophy. As Ken Jaeger, founder/CEO of MorningStar explains, his intention was to create senior living that was “defined by the human touch. I wanted to re-create my grandmother’s house, a place where one can go and feel a sense of family.”
Out of this vision, came a three-pillared mission statement that still guides the way we deliver service to our residents: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well.” Even the name “MorningStar” was inspired by Mr. Jaeger’s contemplation of the bible and his commitment to relieve poverty around the world.
However, while founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition; please know that we welcome and honor all faiths and worldviews in our communities, and are committed to meeting not only residents’ social, emotional, and physical needs but their spiritual ones. In our pursuit of creating a loving home, honoring spiritual preferences is part of caring for the whole person.
MorningStar of Boise is a vibrant 55+ community located near medical facilities, shopping, entertainment and other services. Our all-inclusive community has a dining service under the direction of an Executive Chef, a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide carefree retirement years. Please visit our website for more information about the finest independent and assisted living in Boise, ID.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Boise offers.
Why It’s Important for Aging Adults to Keep Up with Technology
Technology has come so far in just the last few decades, so it’s understandable that some aging adults experience difficulty navigating it. Be that as it may, it’s extremely important for seniors to be able to keep up with modern technologies, given that they provide access to communication, accommodations, and new information, all of which are especially valuable in people’s later years.
More specifically, here’s why technology is so important for aging adults:
Communication with Loved Ones
The majority of seniors’ loved ones probably use cell phones, social media, and other forms of technology throughout their daily lives, so if that person wants to keep in touch and have access to their family and whatever happenings might be going on, technology is vital.
Things like video chats and instant messages are just a few of the perks of using modern technology, as they allow people to talk to anyone anywhere in the world at any time. For seniors, that kind of reliable, long-distance connection can be comforting, if not outright life-saving.
Access to Information
Seniors are considered to be a vulnerable population. They may or may not be legally dependent on caretakers to get through their daily life. In senior living centers, there are several accommodations in place to make life easier for aging adults.
It’s important, however, for seniors to have access to new information on their own, as doing so prevents them from being taken advantage of, exploited, and left “behind the times.” Everyone wants to know and understand what’s going on in the world around them, and seniors are no exception.
Research on the quality of life of aging adults could directly benefit seniors, for instance. They can learn what activities are best to enjoy, how much movement they need, and other important information.
Brain Activity: Keeping Aging Minds Active and Sharp
Technology is riddled with “brain games” that claim to improve neural connections in older adult brains. While these claims are not always proven, it’s been shown that literacy and logic games do improve outcomes related to memory, cognition, and life satisfaction in seniors.
Keeping up with modern technologies can allow residents of senior living homes to become (or remain) sharp-witted, quick thinkers. These games and puzzles are beneficial for social and emotional health as well; seniors can share their favorite games and activities with friends and family.
The best way to address cognitive and memory issues in seniors is through prevention, and today’s technology provides us with access to plenty of mind-sharpening tools and opportunities that seniors should take advantage of.
Convenience
It’s common knowledge that technology works to make life easier. It’s precisely why it has continued to progress a lot over the last few short years, and seniors, especially, can benefit from that convenience. If something can make their lives easier to navigate, they should seize the opportunity.
Stay on Top of the Latest Technology in Senior Living
If you’re a resident in senior living, don’t forget to keep up with the latest technological advancements. You deserve to have some of the world’s greatest tools at your fingertips!
Avoiding Scams: 4 Tips to Keep Your Aging Loved Ones Safe from Scammers
It’s common for scammers to target the elderly population in senior living because of their lack of technological knowledge. This can put your loved ones at risk for scams that steal their money and personal information.
Follow these tips to protect the seniors in your life from malicious scammers.
1. Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers
Let your loved ones know that if they receive a phone call from an unknown number, they shouldn’t answer it.
Scammers get elderly people in senior living on the hook by calling them and pretending there’s an urgent situation. Such a ploy can confuse and worry seniors, which makes them more vulnerable to giving out personal information.
Many scam artists pretend that the senior on the phone is in legal or financial trouble. The key is to avoid answering these types of calls at all.
Assure your loved one that the caller will leave a voicemail if it’s truly important.
2. Never Click Random Links
Some scams operate through links sent via text message. These links often direct seniors to suspicious websites that collect personal information, including bank account info and Social Security numbers.
Tell your aging loved ones that links should always be off-limits unless they know the sender personally. This includes random texters that claim to be in positions of authority — police officers, government workers, and other law enforcement.
3. Look Out for Threats and Intimidation Tactics
Scammers sometimes call seniors and threaten them with legal, financial, and even physical harm. The biggest red flag that something is a scam is if the caller or texter starts intimidating your loved one.
Let them know that legitimate businesses and professionals will never try to harass, threaten, or scare them over the phone. These are telltale signs that someone is a scammer that’s willing to prey on elderly people’s sense of urgency and danger.
If your loved one answers the phone and starts receiving threats and other abusive language, tell them to hang up immediately and block the number.
4. Stay Guarded on Social Media
These days, scammers are using every available medium to target elderly people, including social media. A scammer may impersonate someone on your loved one’s friend list to get information from them.
Inform your loved one of the dangers of impersonation and show them how to determine whether a friend or follow request is legitimate. For example, someone from their friend list likely won’t make a second account and try to add them, so if that happens, it’s probably a scam.
Also, teach them to watch out for suspicious social media links, articles, and survey forms, and have them avoid engaging with these things at all costs.
Protect Your Loved One from Harmful Scams
Scam artists are often difficult or impossible to track down, which means your loved one probably won’t get their money or personal info back if they give it out. Follow these tips to make sure residents of senior living communities never fall victim to technology-based scams.
Senior Living Outside: 5 Ways to Get Out and Enjoy the Sunshine This Summer
Senior living is all about recreation, comfort, and community. You don’t have to stay indoors all summer long while the sun is shining!
If you’re looking for some fun outdoor activities to enjoy this summer, here are five ideas to get you started:
1. Go for a Bike Ride with Friends
Bicycling is a great way to stay active without putting too much pressure on your joints.
When you pedal a bicycle, your joints move smoothly without the impact of the pavement beneath you. This allows your body to continuously produce fluid motions, even if you struggle with joint pain and discomfort.
Bring along a few friends to make your biking fun in the sun even more enjoyable.
2. Enjoy Your Community’s Outdoor Swimming Pool
Most senior living communities have a large outdoor swimming area for residents to enjoy when it’s warm outside. Take advantage of this luxurious amenity!
Water fitness is popular among older adults because it’s both gentle and effective.
If you struggle with stiff joints, weight control, or other health problems, swimming outdoors can be a great way to relax and get some physical activity in at the same time.
3. Start a Garden
Gardening doesn’t have to be done on the hard ground while you kneel uncomfortably in the hot sun. In fact, many modern gardens in senior living communities are placed on balconies and other accessible areas.
Additionally, raised beds offer a great way to garden without kneeling. Some raised beds can even allow you to garden at waist level or higher.
Studies have shown that gardening boosts feelings of happiness and productivity, especially in older adults. Buy some seeds, pots, and a watering can, and get started this summer!
4. Join Outdoor Group Fitness Classes
Most senior living communities offer group fitness activities. See if your instructor is willing to move one of the classes outside when the weather is especially beautiful.
Practicing group fitness creates a sense of community among senior living residents. Those who move together, stay together!
Outdoor fitness classes can include Zumba, yoga, and aerobic exercises.
5. Dine Outside
Whether you’re at a nearby restaurant or simply sitting on your balcony or in a common area outdoors, it’s always a good idea to eat outside in the summer. You don’t have to engage in strenuous exercise to get your daily dose of vitamin D.
You can arrange for a group meal outside with other residents to soak up the socialization and sunshine together.
Stay Active and Outdoorsy
This SummerSenior living communities offer a range of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Get up and moving this summer with these five activities and more at your senior living community!
Luxury Senior Living at MorningStar of Hayward
MorningStar of Hayward, a vibrant 55+ community, has a range of options including independent living, assisted living and memory care as well as short-term stays. We want prospective residents and their families to know we are here to answer all their questions, and once the decision is made to join our community, we provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition.
Our apartments for independent living offer seniors a refreshing change of lifestyle with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, activities and programming, and tasty meals they no longer need to cook. It also provides peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself needing help with daily personal care; we can make sure you get it.
Moreover, contrary to what many think about assisted living, it is designed to help seniors maintain their sense of independence. By providing assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), residents can focus on living their life to the fullest. Upon joining our community, residents have an Individualized Care Plan created for them after a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director, and in agreement with the senior and their family.
Finally, we proudly provide comprehensive memory care families trust with suites dedicated to caring for our most tender residents. To accomplish this, our entire staff is trained in the precepts of Lavender Sky, our thoughtfully considered philosophy and approach to dementia care. Our community is equipped to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. In fact, every aspect of our memory care is designed around the needs of each resident from our physical environment, activities and programs, meals, and more.
MorningStar Hayward’s first-class amenities start with Executive Chef inspired meals which are served all day in our beautiful full-service dining room. We also have a theater/chapel, ice cream parlor, fitness center, and scheduled transportation. In addition, we have a general store, billiards lounge and a private dining room for intimate dinners. Amidst our beautiful grounds we have strolling paths, courtyards and an outdoor dining deck. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care, assisted living and independent living in Hayward, CA
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care, assisted living and independent living Hayward, CA offers.
Senior Living: How Being in a Community Can Provide Benefits for Your Health and Well-Being
Seniors face unique challenges when it comes to socializing and staying healthy. In senior living communities, you have access to tight-knit groups of peers who enjoy the same lifestyle as you.
Here’s why you should consider senior living and how it can improve your health.
The Importance of Connection After Retirement
Once you retire, you might find yourself navigating a completely new social world. You may not keep in touch with as many people as the workplace offered to you.
Social connection is incredibly important for people throughout all ages and stages of their lives. Socializing can offer you that human connection that makes you feel worthy, needed, and seen in the world. Feeling lonely and isolated can eventually lead to serious health problems.
Improved senior social health is linked to better physical and mental well-being across the board. Unfortunately, this isn’t always easy to accomplish on your own. Senior living communities are designed to foster healthy connections between post-retirement seniors every day.
Senior Living: Organized Activities and Events
Most senior living communities across the U.S. will have organized fitness classes, arts and crafts sessions, and other forms of entertainment for seniors to enjoy.
These coordinated events make socializing easy and convenient for you. You’re already in your community, so why not attend the next concert or outdoor yoga session?
Senior living communities promote gatherings and shared hobbies as a way to stay connected to others. These exclusive events ensure that you never feel alone after retirement.
Easy Access to Medical Care
Senior living communities offer many medical and rehabilitation services for residents who need them. If you have a specific health concern or need additional care, you can find it easily in senior living.
Many seniors undergo surgeries and mobility therapies to improve their quality of life. In senior living, your transportation, appointment scheduling, and insurance information are all within easy reach.
You have access to medical assistance and therapy any time you need it when you choose senior living.
Continuing Education
If you have a love for lifelong learning, senior living is perfect for you. Many senior living communities offer continuing education courses about history, science, and other interesting topics.
Continuing education is important for keeping your mind active and engaged throughout the years after retirement. Is there something you’ve always wanted to study? You can finally pursue it in senior living!
Senior Living: Reap the Benefits of Community and Connection
You deserve to enjoy your golden years to the fullest. In senior living, you have access to a wealth of social and health benefits that can improve your quality of life. When you choose senior living, you can make the most out of your post-retirement lifestyle!
A Guide to Terms You Might Hear in Senior Living Communities
Moving to a senior living community can be exciting and rejuvenating. You get to enjoy a robust social life with plenty of healthy and interesting activities each day.
If you are moving to a senior living community, there are some acronyms and phrases that you will often hear while you’re there. Take a look at these common senior living terms, along with some tips on how to use them correctly.
Medical Terms
Many residents of senior living communities have specific health issues that require frequent medical care. Here are some of the medical terms you should know:
HIPAA
HIPAA refers to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This term usually comes up in matters of patient privacy and protected healthcare information (PHI).
Essentially, HIPAA protects any sensitive health information from being revealed to third parties without your permission. Your privacy matters in senior living.
Hospice
Hospice care is designed to make the end of someone’s life as comfortable and dignified as possible. When someone’s health is on an irreversible decline, hospice staff ensure that they get the comfort care they deserve.
LTC
LTC stands for long-term care. In senior living, this refers to residents who need round-the-clock assistance and medical care.
Long-term care is usually permanent due to an injury or progressive illness that will not improve over time. Memory care is a form of long-term care.
Palliative Care
Palliative care is comfort-centered care. Unlike hospice care, palliative care does not always signify the end of a patient’s life. Many patients with chronic but non-fatal conditions benefit from palliative care.
General Terms
As an applicant or current resident of a senior living community, knowing certain important terms can help you better navigate your living situation.
PASARR
PASARR stands for Pre-Admission Screening and Annual Resident Review. In short, PASARR checks for symptoms of mental illness and developmental disabilities.
This is to ensure that residents get the proper level of care that they need. Sometimes residents need to be transferred to a more appropriate medical setting rather than remaining in senior living.
Resident AssessmentAs an applicant or resident, you will likely undergo periodic resident assessments. These are observations of your cognitive, physical, and functional capabilities.
If needed, your medical team and approved loved ones will help you figure out the best treatment plan to help you regain mobility and maintain stable health.
Resident Care Plan
Resident care plans are just as they sound — comprehensive plans to enhance your physical, mental, and social health.
Insurance companies require residents of senior living communities to have a resident care plan at all times. This is to ensure that you receive care that will help your health improve.
Learning Important Senior Living Terms Will Set You Up for Success
If you want to join a senior living community, one of the best steps you can take is to learn the appropriate terminology. This will help you navigate the medical, residential, and financial transitions involved in moving to senior living.
And of course, if you encounter a term you aren’t familiar with, you are always welcome to reach out to staff for clarification.
4 Health Benefits of Moving to a Senior Living Community
Senior living is an umbrella term that extends into multiple arenas of senior care. When you consider the best options for your aging loved one, senior living should be at the top of the list.
There are many physical, mental, and social health advantages to choosing senior living for your loved one. Here are four of the most common benefits that aging adults experience after moving:
1. Increased Medical Support
Aging adults often need more medical care than the average adult. This is because aging can cause a host of health problems.
As your loved one grows older, their physical and mental health can start to decline. Assisted living and memory care facilities offer advanced medical support for elderly people.
This means you never have to worry about your loved one suffering without receiving the necessary medical care. Staff are trained in geriatric care and will monitor your loved one’s health regularly.
2. More Opportunities for Socialization
Socializing can become more difficult as adults age. This happens for a few reasons.
Your loved one’s social health may be at risk if most of their peers have passed away. While heart-wrenching, this is an unfortunate reality among elderly adults.
Socializing outside of senior living often requires transportation, mobility, and hefty accommodations for health problems. In assisted living and memory care facilities, your loved one enjoys on-site socialization without any hassle.
Maintaining a healthy social life is linked to better health outcomes overall in aging adults. Socialization is essential to remaining healthy and happy as people get older.
3. Assistance with Daily Tasks
The daily tasks of living can become tiresome for aging adults. Simple things like self-care, personal hygiene, cleaning, and making meals become harder as their mobility and energy decline.
In assisted living and memory care, trained staff are there to support your loved one every day. They can receive help with cooking, cleaning, dressing, and grooming themselves.
Instead of relying on you or other family members, your loved one will have a special support system in assisted living or memory care.
3. Access to Physical Wellness Services
Most senior living communities offer some kind of health and wellness programs for their residents. These services help aging adults get daily physical activity and regain some of their mobility.
Most wellness programs also have a nutritional component as well. Your loved one can learn how to balance their meals and get the required nutrients to thrive each day.
Consider Senior Living to Boost Your Loved One’s Health
Senior living offers these benefits and many more for aging adults. Your loved one’s unique medical, physical, and mental needs can be more than met when they reside in senior living.
From assisted living to memory care, there are many options for enjoying the best of the golden years. Consider senior living to boost your loved one’s quality of life today!
Stay Involved in Your Medical Care
We have all heard horror stories of someone getting the wrong treatment or a botched surgical procedure, or other examples of outright poor medical care. Doctors say one way to help reduce medical errors is to be an active partner in your care, be it at the doctor’s office, the hospital or pharmacy. If you think your chances of a misdiagnosis, unnecessary surgery, or being given the wrong medication are slim, read the following. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “an estimated 10% of patients in high-income countries are harmed while receiving hospital care.” A 2021 StatPearls reports, “medical errors result in about 100,000 deaths in hospitals and clinics annually.”
The danger of a misdiagnosis is it results in delayed treatment for the real problem and perhaps a round of the wrong medications. However, before you lay all the blame on the medical profession, experts say many misdiagnoses can be the fault of the patient. Too often a person fails to disclose important facts regarding their medical history, symptoms or honestly report lifestyle habits including alcohol consumption, smoking and diet.
Before you go to your next doctor visit, doctors say taking the time to prepare for the visit helps you use your time most effectively. Remember the actual time you see the doctor is short so you may want to write down the points you wish to discuss. For help, the Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore offers a QuestionBuilder app. It is available from AHRQ at Google Play or the Apple App store and can be used to help you prepare.
Tips to make the most of your visit include bringing a list of your current medications and the dosage as well as how long you have been on it and why you take it. If you worry you may forget something the doctor said, bring a family member or trusted friend. Experts say don’t feel awkward about seeking a second opinion; and if your problem is not getting any better, be persistent.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo is a new senior living community offering all the luxury amenities, care services, and wellness programs residents need to age in place comfortably and safely. Our beautiful community offers 64 suites for independent living and another 41 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans and configurations. For those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, our Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care designed to enhance quality of life for our most tender residents. Please contact us or visit our Info Center at 28570 Marguerite Parkway to learn more.
At MorningStar of Mission Viejo our mission statement “to honor, to value, 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 residents exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care.
Walking for Exercise Has Some Unexpected Advantages
The former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Thomas Frieden, is quoted as saying that walking is "the closest thing we have to a wonder drug.” Many in the medical profession agree. While it is universally acknowledged that any exercise is beneficial to our overall health, walking offers some unexpected advantages.
A study from a group of Harvard scientists concluded that walking seems to counteract the effects of weight-promoting genes. The project involved looking at “32 obesity-promoting genes in over 12,000 people to determine how much the genes actually contribute to body weight.” Within the group of participants who walked briskly for an hour a day, researchers found the effects of the weight-promoting genes were cut in half.
Another surprising result of walking is it was shown to actually diminish a person’s sweet tooth. In a study out of the University of Exeter, researchers found walking appears to curb cravings for chocolate and other sugary treats. Their study showed even 15 minutes of walking a day could reduce the habit of eating sweets when stressed.
While doctors recognize any physical exercise is beneficial to reducing the risk of breast cancer, an American Cancer Society study found women who walked seven or more hours a week “had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week.” Researchers say walking helped decrease a woman’s risk for breast cancer even when she had an increased risk due to obesity or supplemental hormones. Other studies show walking helps to reduce joint pain and lubricates and strengthens muscles as well as boost the immune system.
At MorningStar of Mission Viejo, our vibrant 55+ community is designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Along with beautiful suites in a variety of floorplans, we offer a whole host of amenities, care services, and wellness programs. Please visit our website for more information about our new independent living, assisted living and memory care community. We are scheduled to open to residents in April 2023 and encourage you to visit our Info Center at 28570 Marguerite Parkway.
MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Mission Viejo.
Source:
health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/5-surprising-benefits-of-walking
The Importance of Socialization for Older Adults
A UCSF Division of Geriatrics study found 43 percent of seniors report regularly experiencing loneliness. Mayo clinic psychologist, Dr. Craig Sawchuk, Ph.D., explains why this can be a problem. He says as “social animals by nature; we tend to function better when we’re in a community setting and being around others.”
Several studies report a link between social isolation and an increased risk of disease including one from the Academy of Science, which found loneliness can lead to higher rates of poor physical and mental health. Health concerns for isolated adults include hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease.
It becomes harder for seniors who live alone to socialize as they get into their upper 70s or 80s as many stop driving and/or suffer from chronic health problems affecting their mobility. Other contributing issues to loneliness in the elderly may include the death of a spouse or close family members and friends.
To emphasize how important socialization is for older adults, the American Public Health Association explains the most effective way for seniors to improve their health is to increase socialization. They report “socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise.”
At MorningStar of Mission Viejo, scheduled to open next spring, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social connectivity. We will provide everything seniors need for quality of life and to safely and comfortably age in place. Along with luxury amenities, and care and hospitality services; our signature wellness programs and activities are designed to engage and encourage residents to live full productive lives.
Our beautiful community will offer a range of living options with 64 independent living suites and 41 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood will provide experienced, compassionate care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
Since 2003, MorningStar Senior Living has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our mission: to honor God, to value all seniors, and to invest generously in our team. Please contact us to learn more about our new independent living, assisted living and memory care community in Mission Viejo, CA.
Source: seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/the-mental-health-benefits-of-socializing-for-seniors/