Maintaining Detailed Medical Records Can Improve Your Health
Studies show people who keep good personal health records enjoy better health. Researchers say it may be due to the fact the individual as well as their caregivers have a better understanding of their overall health. Moreover, quick access to a person’s medical history help care providers make better informed decisions regarding needed care.
John Hopkins Medical explains a good way to start organizing your medical history is to write down the name and contact information of all your healthcare providers. Be sure to add what role they play in your care.
In terms of paper medical documents, they say paperwork older than a year can be filed away. Current records should be kept where they are easily accessible. These should include a family medical history of grandparents, parents, siblings and other pertinent relatives. Your personal history should include all current medical conditions and how they are being treated. Additionally, include past surgeries and procedures as well as hospitalizations and accidents. Doctor summaries and notes should also be in your file.
File copies of test results such as blood work, cholesterol, MRIs, bone density scans, mammograms or prostate screenings. If a test is done regularly, keep copies of past results together to help you track changes from year to year.
Another important piece of information is a list of all medications and herbal supplements you take. John Hopkins’s article suggests using the pharmacy’s printout from each of your prescriptions as it contains the name, date and dosage of the medication.
Insurance forms should be included in your records. Legal documents like a living will and medical power of attorney should be kept with your medical records. Lastly, if you are part of a large hospital system, be sure to activate your personal medical chart as it will have information of test results, upcoming appointments, doctors’ notes and more.
MorningStar of Hayward is a beautiful, vibrant 55+ community for independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA. Our independent living option offers active seniors an outstanding residential environment with an array of amenities, hospitality services, wellness programs and activities. MorningStar’s assisted living is designed to give residents the help they need so they can live life to the fullest. In addition, for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers all-inclusive, compassionate care.
MorningStar offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and investing in our staff to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/medical-records-getting-organized
Finding Assisted Living for Mom or Dad
If you have started searching for assisted living for a parent, you know it can be overwhelming. You are probably looking for a place that fits their budget, care needs, and lifestyle preferences. Moreover, you know it is not a decision to make lightly as you will not want to move mom or dad again after just a few months. That is why the experts suggest that if the circumstances allow you should take your time.
The Internet has several checklists and suggestions on what to look for when searching for assisted living communities including questions to ask when talking to the staff. One thing everyone agrees on is that it is a good idea to take a tour of the community.
Questions you will want to ask include suite sizes and configurations, pricing information and availability. If you plan to have both of your parents move in, ask if they can share a suite. Also, if applicable, find out if the community supports Companion Living (where two people of the same sex share a suite).
You will also want to learn more about the care services your loved one will receive. How is the level of care determined? Will they have access to care 24/7? How close is the community to medical care facilities and how are medical emergencies handled? Are nurses available and if so, how often? What is the staff-to-resident ratio and do the staff receive special training? Do any of the caregivers have CPR training?
In addition, ask about programs and activities available to residents. If possible, get a calendar of events to review later. Also, ask about the dining experience. Are meals offered all day? Is the dining room full service? Can a resident have meals delivered to their suite? If your parents have diet restrictions, find out if they can be accommodated.
Location is another thing to consider as you will want a community that is convenient for family and friends to visit. Be sure to ask if you will be allowed to visit at any time or if there is a set schedule when residents can receive visitors.
At MorningStar of Hayward, we look forward to answering all your questions. Our dedicated team works hard to give our residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community second to none. Our beautiful home offers independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA with a wide range of luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care to those with memory impairment.
MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living Hayward, CA offers. Contact us or visit our website for more information.
Do You Get Enough Vitamin D?
There has been much in the news lately about Vitamin D including how much we need each day and the fact that far too many people may be deficient. Medical professionals say there are not many foods high in Vitamin D so relying only on what we eat can be challenging. It is estimated close to half of all Americans are deficient in D; but without a blood test, it is difficult to know for sure.
Vitamin D is good for us as it contributes to bone health by aiding our bodies with absorbing calcium and phosphorus. It additionally helps nerves carry messages between the brain and other parts of the body as well as fights inflammation.
A food high in D is rainbow trout. Dieticians say one 3-ounce serving contains 645 IUs, which is more than the daily recommended serving for adults. Other foods high in D include salmon, which is high in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, egg yolks and canned tuna. Mushrooms grown under UV light also have a good amount of vitamin D. Another source is food fortified with D such as many types of milk, yogurt, cereals and orange juice.
If you are concerned about sun exposure due to the risk of skin cancer and don’t want to get vitamin D that way, experts say it only takes about 10 to 30 minutes of daily direct sunlight exposure to ensure vitamin production. The National Institutes of Health recommends a daily allowance of 600 international units IU (15 micrograms) of vitamin D for most adults. For seniors 70 years and older, 800 IU (20 micrograms) is the daily recommendation. Ask your doctor for a blood test to determine if and how much vitamin D you need.
MorningStar Senior Living offers 193 stylish suites for independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA with a choice of studio, alcove, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 35 suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments. Our many services, wellness programs and activities are designed to support and enhance residents’ physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing. Contact us or visit our website 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 the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/vitamin-d-foods
Products That Help Seniors Live Better Lives
It seems as if every day the market offers more and more tech devices, gadgets and mobility aids designed to keep older adults moving and give them as independent a lifestyle as possible. Mobility aids include everything from canes and walkers to fall prevention items, wheelchairs, personal scooters, powered wheelchairs, transfer devices and more. The range of products is huge as in the example of walkers. While there are two basic types, standard or rolling (sometimes called rollators); the selection is varied and includes many options and add-ons such as seats and storage baskets.
Technology devices include a variety of products like health monitoring systems and cognitive aids to keep seniors safer and more connected. Today’s SOS alerts systems and fall detectors enable seniors to get help when and where they need it. Amplification devices make it easier to hear the TV, and phones are designed to be easy to use and see. Electronic medication reminders help seniors stay on track with daily meds.
Products such as shower chairs, grab bars and raised toilet seats can make a bathroom safer for seniors and help avoid falls. Ergonomic, adaptive kitchens tools are designed for seniors with arthritis and weak hand grip strength. These include specially designed bottle, cap and jar openers; and scooped plates and bowls to reduce movement.
Adaptive, light-weight tools for gardening enthusiasts also make it easier to dig in the soil and reduce hand and wrist fatigue while weeding. Raised beds and trellises eliminate the need to get down on the ground, and a rolling gardening chair cart makes it easier to get around. Thick kneeling pads are designed to more comfortably knee or sit on the ground, a few even offer cup holders and pockets for tools. Check out the Internet for other useful items.
MorningStar offers stylish independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA that allows seniors to comfortably and securely age in place while enjoying luxury amenities, wellness programs, activities and built-in companionship. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us to set up a tour of our beautiful community.
MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Research Shows Certain Foods Are Good For Your Brain
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains, choline is an essential nutrient our bodies need. Our brain and nervous systems use choline to regulate memory, mood, muscle control and other functions as well as help reduce inflammation. Choline is also used to form the membranes surrounding our body’s cells.
While we make a small amount of choline in our livers, most of it comes from the food we eat. Daily requirements for choline vary depending on age and gender. If a person’s levels drop too low, they may experience muscle and liver damage. Other problems can include deposits of fat in the liver known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] and damage to the liver.
Recent research reports a link between eating eggs, which contain choline, and a reduced risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists say they attribute the potential brain benefits to the choline in the yolk as well as vitamins B-6, B-12, folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein. Studies suggest these nutrients may help prevent brain shrinkage and delay cognitive decline. Other foods containing choline include meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products; some types of beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains; and cruciferous vegetables like brussels sprouts and cauliflower.
Drinking coffee may even be good for us as it contains antioxidants. Studies show 3 or 4 cups a day over a long period of time may reduce your risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Blueberries and other dark berries contain anthocyanins with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The spice turmeric has an active compound called curcumin, which research shows may reduce symptoms of depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
At MorningStar of Hayward, our vibrant community provides a full range of amenities, services and people to support and enhance quality of life for our residents in assisted living. Our best-in-class dining offers meals made with fresh ingredients as well as known brain foods. Other amenities include beautiful gathering spaces, library, bistro, theater, salon, fitness center and relaxing courtyard. Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.
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. Please contact us for more information about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Sources: ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Choline-, healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods#fish
Be Prepared for a Surprise Hospital Stay
While many hospital stays are planned, older adults are more likely to require an unexpected trip to the hospital. When you have the luxury of time, it is easy to get prepared with the necessary information a parent needs when admitted to the hospital. It can be a different story if the trip is sudden.
Medical experts say to ensure a loved one gets the proper care, it is important to see to it that the hospital has a complete medical history. Notes and documents can be completed and gathered now then updated as health changes occur. For starters, the hospital will want a “next of kin” contact for the patient so decide beforehand who that will be.
Now go through the list of medications your parents take and make sure they are all together in one location. In the event of a medical emergency, you will be able to bring all their medications with you to ensure the hospital knows the most up-to-date medications and dosages.
Another thing to gather information on regards your parents’ pre-existing conditions and any recent surgeries or procedures they may have had. Provide the name of their primary care provider; and be sure to let the hospital personnel know if your parent has dementia or any physical limitations.
If the hospital doesn’t already have a copy of your loved one’s advanced directive, also known as a living will, bring one with you. An advanced directive is a legal document in which a person specifies what actions should be taken in end-of-life situations when they cannot speak for themselves. Mom or dad may also have a Do-Not-Resuscitate Order, which is another kind of advance directive. It covers not receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the person’s heart stops or if they stop breathing.
Other information to give to the hospital regards allergies and dietary restrictions. Additionally, make sure your loved one has their cellphone with them as many hospital rooms do not have phones.
If you are considering independent or assisted living in Hayward, CA, MorningStar may be your answer. MorningStar of Hayward is located just 25 miles south of San Francisco which gives residents spectacular views of the Bay, the San Francisco skyline, and Hayward Hills. Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, and a hospitality and care team who feel called and honored to serve seniors in assisted living. Please visit our website for more information and to inquire about pricing and availability.
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 for more information about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward offers.
CARMEN Is a Robot That Helps People With Mild Cognitive Impairment
CARMEN, which is short for Cognitively Assistive Robot for Motivation and Neurorehabilitation, is a small, tabletop robot designed to help people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Recently the University of California introduced the world to CARMEN to help people learn skills to improve memory, attention, and executive functioning at home.
What sets CARMEN apart from other robots is it was created in partnership with clinicians, people with MCI and their care providers. Researchers say they think the robot is one of a kind in terms of teaching compensatory cognitive strategies designed to improve memory and executive function.
Experts estimate MCI affects up to 20% of adults 65 years or older, and of that number, 15% of people with the condition transition to dementia each year. Scientists say while we currently do not have medical treatments to slow or prevent this from happening, behavioral treatments can help.
Working one-on-one with individuals, CARMEN delivers a series of simple, easy-to-do cognitive training exercises. One example is teaching users to create routine places to leave important objects like keys, cellphone and other commonly misplaced items. CARMEN also emphasizes strategies such as taking notes to remember things.
The learning process is accomplished through a set of interactive games and activities designed to be done independently without the help of a clinician’s or researcher’s supervision. This meant the robot was built as a plug and play device without a lot of parts requiring maintenance. CARMEN was also designed to function with limited access to the Internet and not depend on a reliable connection. The robot also expresses empathy and compassion for the person’s situation as well as communicates clearly.
Early results with CARMEN had participants reporting the learned strategies helped them feel more confidence in their everyday life, and they were now willing to attempt things they had previously stopped doing. Researchers say the hope is to get more robots in the hands of users and fine-tune the robot to address even more issues for people with MCI and other conditions such as ADHD.
At MorningStar of Hayward, we engage residents in senior housing routinely to provide physical, mental and social stimulation as well as good, old-fashioned fun. Our community offers a wide selection of suites to meet a range of preferences, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other independent and assisted living in Hayward, CA and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.
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. Please contact us for more information about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
Gifts for a Loved One With Dementia
If you want to get something special for mom or dad or another loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, it can be challenging to figure out a good gift. This is where the Internet can lend a hand with a range of items designed to enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
Dementia care specialists say it can take a little more time and some creativity but there are many great gift ideas. One idea is personalized gifts or memory-filled ones. A photo album filled with pictures of the person surrounded by people important to them, or a picture book from a place they loved to visit. A coffee mug personalized with a photo or a cozy throw filled with favorite family pictures are also good ideas.
Music from their younger years, show tunes and old movies are sure to make them smile and can be a good way to spend an afternoon together listening to their new gifts. Coloring books filled with pictures of things they love such as animals or flowers, and a set of new markers or crayons, and easy-to-do crafts are also fun to do together.
Another item targeted to people with Alzheimer’s or dementia is therapy stuffed animals. Designed to meet their special needs, one example is a teddy bear that comes with a few classic songs but has room to load a person’s favorite tunes (up to a 1,000 songs). Cuddly robotic cat and dog stuffed animals have a calming, soothing effect on people in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Research shows they can help the person remember a time in their life when their purpose included caring for others.
Along with independent and assisted living, Hayward, CA’s MorningStar community provides compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents, allowing them as much independence as possible. 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. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar of Hayward.
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, memory care and assisted living Hayward, CA offers.
It's Important for Women to Get Health Screening Tests
Medical professionals stress the importance of women getting the proper screenings to protect their health and discover problems early when they may be more treatable. Screenings are designed for otherwise healthy individuals and recommendations change as we age.
An article in the publication US News & World Report, states, “Your doctor can help you tailor the recommendations based on your goals of care, personal and family health history, age and life expectancy.” This post discusses 4 of the 14 screenings in the article.
Breast cancer screening with a mammogram is recommended annually for women from age 40-50, every two years for those 50 to 74 and on a case-by-case basis after that. Doctors say mammograms are key to the prevention as well as early detection of breast cancer, when it is most easily treated. Talk to your doctor about testing options if you are under the age of 40 and have a mother or sister who had breast cancer at a young age or have a high-risk genetic marker.
It is recommended women 50 years and older have a colonoscopy every ten years. As colon cancer is more common in African Americans and occurs at an earlier age, it is advised to start testing at age 45. Younger women/teens with a family history of adenomatous polyposis – a genetic condition that starts in someone as young as in the teen years may need colonoscopies at a much earlier age. Also, a woman with a history of Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease will likely be advised to have a colonoscopy at a younger age than 50. There are also other screening tests for colon cancer which may be right for you.
Diabetes is another disease a woman 45 years and older should be screened for every three years. Exceptions for screening earlier are a family history of diabetes; obesity and high blood pressure readings or you take medications for HBP.
A Lipid profile assessment testing a woman’s cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as the risk for heart disease should be done every five years starting at age 45, or younger for those at high risk. If lifestyle changes do not reduce your numbers, you may need medications. As with all screenings, discuss with your doctor how often you need to be screened and what steps to take to improve your health.
If you are looking for assisted living, memory care or independent living in Hayward, CA, MorningStar may be your answer. Our range of onsite amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities allow residents to live life to the fullest. Amenities include all-day dining, full-service dining room, salon, fitness center, art studio, life enrichment area, scheduled transportation and more. To experience MorningStar of Hayward up close, contact us to schedule a visit.
MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living, memory care and independent living Hayward offers.
Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/health-screenings-all-women-need?
Prediabetes Can Be Reversed With Lifestyle Changes
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans, and every year more than a million people are diagnosed with the disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) reports in 2021, 38.4 million Americans, or 11.6% of the population, had diabetes. Of that number 2 million had type 1 diabetes, which includes more than 300,000 children and adolescents.
Seniors aged 65 years and older make up a large percentage of Americans with the disease at 29.2% or 16.5 million seniors (diagnosed and undiagnosed). Diabetes can be deadly and was the 8th leading cause of death in 2021. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of vision problems, heart attacks, nerve damage and stroke. In 2022, the CDC estimated the cost of diabetes was $412.9 billion.
Prediabetes is another huge problem and numbers from 2021 report 97.6 million Americans aged 18 and older are affected. It is a chronic condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. While it carries an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it isn’t inevitable. Studies show prediabetes can be reversed or the risk mitigated with lifestyle changes such as diet, medications, and early detection.
Yale Medicine endocrinologist, Anika Anam, MD, explains, “Prediabetes goes hand in hand with metabolic syndrome, the term for a condition that includes hypertension, obesity, and high cholesterol.” She adds each of those conditions raises the risk for serious issues including heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
The CDC’s national Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), finds “people with prediabetes who lost a modest amount of weight—5 to 7% (10 to 14 pounds for a person weighing 200 pounds, for example)—with the help of a structured lifestyle-change program cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%.” In addition, experts say at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can not only improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, but aid in weight loss. Cutting out added sugars, eating more complex carbs (vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains), and increasing protein are other recommended lifestyle changes as is reducing stress.
For luxury independent or assisted living in Hayward, CA, MorningStar is sure to please. Our community provides residents with tasty, nutritional meals as well as suitable exercise programs and activities to help stay fit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. To learn more about MorningStar of Hayward’s wide range of amenities and services, please visit our website.
MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA offers. Contact us or visit our website for more information.
Enjoy Your Senior Years at MorningStar of Hayward
Imagine being freed up from the many chores homeownership requires and having the time to pursue your various interests and hobbies, to travel, or spend more time with family and friends. Senior living communities like MorningStar of Hayward can provide just that and more as we offer a wide array of services including housekeeping, tasty meals and other luxury amenities.
Our maintenance crew handles all repairs both inside and out as well as routine chores like the care of our beautiful grounds. This means as a resident, you will not be faced with unexpected maintenance bills, and instead enjoy the security of predictable budgeting.
Assisted living residents also receive the personalized care they need for the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Medication management services help seniors keep on track with their prescription drug usage. Transportation services to and from doctor visits and routine health screenings make it easy to keep up your medical care.
For all residents, our meaningful wellness programs and activities keep residents as busy as they like. Planned community-wide activities and outings let residents enjoy themselves and offer the perfect environment to meet new friends and create new memories. Smartly designed suites provide privacy while offering access to social activities, and the comfort and security of knowing someone is always around if help is needed.
Our all-day, restaurant-style dining services allow you to keep to your own schedule. Meals are chef-inspired and made from as many freshly sourced ingredients as possible. Residents on restricted diets have options for low-sodium, low calorie and other dietary preferences.
MorningStar is a top choice for independent living and assisted living in Hayward, and allows seniors to comfortably age in place without giving up any of their freedom or choices. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers holistic care to those with memory loss diseases. Contact us to schedule an in-person tour to experience first-hand our outstanding community.
MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Hayward, CA has to offer.