This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 8th. Rather than sending a bouquet of flowers this year, show grandma, mom and other moms in your life your appreciation and love by giving your time.
Commit to helping mom with a DIY house project like painting a room or helping clean up the attic or basement. Give mom and grandma the “day off” by taking over the cooking and cleaning up. For a simple dessert, set up a sundae bar with all the trimmings and let everyone make their own treat. If mom lives in an apartment, decorate her front door with a wreath or a huge homemade card signed by the whole family telling her how special she is. For a movie-loving mom, make a date to watch one of her favorite romantic comedies together in person or virtually. Other fun ideas include hosting a garden tea party or barbeque, and if you can’t get together, send mom all the goodies you want her to enjoy at a virtual party. Spend time together baking a fancy dessert or cooking a family favorite recipe for dinner. If mom lives close by, put together a basket of homemade goodies and deliver them to her door. The grandkids can help grandma feel loved by making cards or putting on a talent show or play. You or an older grandchild can “interview” grandma about her childhood and early adult years, wedding day, her years as a parent of small children, jobs etc. Whatever you decide on, just make sure mom feels special. At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we strive to honor our remarkable residents each and every day. Our all-inclusive community offers a range of floor plans to meet our residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services to provide a lifestyle of comfort and wellness. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar. Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale offers. MorningStar at Arrowhead proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care 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 homes Glendale, AZ has to offer. If your mom is one of those people who has everything and/or is living in an apartment where she does not have room for a bunch of useless stuff, be creative with this year’s Mother’s Day gift. You may worry that more practical gifts are too boring but if they help to make her life easier and more interesting, most mothers are happy to get them.
If mom lives alone, there are several smartly-designed dressing aids to make it easier for her and would be a useful addition to a basket of goodies. If mom likes to wear dresses or blouses that zip up the back, a zipper puller will come in handy. The same goes for a bracelet fastener or magnetic necklace fastener, both are great for those with some mobility problems. A cozy gift idea for a mom or grandmother who always has cold feet is a pair of heatable slippers. Microwaveable ones have a heatable insole typically filled with aromatic ingredients such as lavender and rosemary. For a mom who suffers from sore muscles and stiffness, how about a Shiatsu pillow massager designed for the back and neck (it can also be used in other places). Simple to use, just plug it in and feel the tension ease from your body with the 3-dimensional deep-kneading shiatsu massage nodes. Want to give mom a spa-like experience? A gift of shower steamer bombs create a relaxing, aromatherapy experience for women who like showers more than a bath. Most are made with natural ingredients and pure essential oils like lemongrass and lavender. Moms and grandmothers always love the gift of a loved one’s time. Why not put on a fancy brunch with many of mom’s favorite dishes. An offer to declutter and organize her home or help her write her life story is bound to bring up lots of memories and fun stories to share. MorningStar of Billings is a vibrant 55+ community in a residential neighborhood on the west side of town and offers mountain views. Our beautiful home has free-standing cottages as well as private apartments in a variety of floorplans for independent living. For those who need help with daily care activities, we offer 70 suites for assisted living. In addition, we provide experienced, compassionate memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For trusted Senior Living in Billings, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place. MorningStar of Billings provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement “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 an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Visit our website to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living and memory care at MorningStar. Research indicates we may be able to promote brain health by engaging in challenging cognitive activities like learning a new skill at an older age. The University of Texas studied the benefits for older adults who pursued cognitively engaging activities later in life.
The study consisted of 221 participants ranging in ages from 60 to 90, with an average age of 72 to try and determine what type of activities offered the greatest benefit to aging brains. Participants were divided into 6 groups with three taking part in what researchers labeled “productive cognitive engagement” involving active learning. Activities included learning photography and how to edit photos on the computer, quilting on a computer-driven sewing machine or doing both photography and quilting. Two other groups were assigned to what researchers referred to as the ‘receptive engagement conditions,’ and neither involved learning new things or engaging in unfamiliar intellectual activities. Rather people were put into a social club where they mainly did familiar activities or were asked to read informative material and watch documentaries. All performed their tasks for 15 hours per week for 14 weeks. The sixth group was the control group and did not change their activity patterns. Researchers compared participants at the end of the study and found those who did productive cognitive engagement had significantly more improvement in episodic memory. They explain episodic memory is our memory of past events and has been found to be the type of memory most impacted by aging. The study suggests “memory improvement need not come from brain games or memory drills, but can also come from learning a challenging new skill.” At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our stylish suites come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. Amenities include Executive Chef-inspired meals, restaurant-style dining, fitness room, salon, library, fireside patio and porches, and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents physically, mentally, socially and spiritually engaged. For more information on one of the finest retirement homes in Glendale, please visit our website. MorningStar at Arrowhead’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement homes Glendale, AZ 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, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. Source: matherinstitute.com/2015/06/29/late-life-learning-what-are-the-brain-benefits/ The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Experts say a good night’s sleep enhances memory, improves mood and regulates appetite. Too little sleep is linked to a higher risk of heart disease and weight gain and is the time our bodies repair muscle, organs and other cells.
Experts offer some tips to help individuals achieve a better night sleep without drugs but simply by the choice of foods consumed as well as what food or drink to avoid. Foods interfering with sleep include caffeine and large meals and alcohol consumed too close to bedtime. As a deficiency of folate is linked to insomnia, a study from the Taipei Medical University found eating two kiwis, which are high in B vitamin folate and vitamins C and E, an hour before bed helped participants fall asleep faster, sleep longer and more efficiently. Another food to help induce sleep is tart cherries. They contain natural melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles, and a phytonutrient linked to promoting better sleep. Additionally nuts like almonds and walnuts contain melatonin; and pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is converted to melatonin. Passionflower and chamomile teas can help promote sleep as well as warm milk. Other sleep inducing foods include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, which are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, and help regulate sleep, mood and other functions. MorningStar of Billings strives to provide residents with all of the amenities and services they need to ensure carefree retirement years. Part of those amenities include providing residents meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious including using BrainWise super foods. These are foods known to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as acai and other berries, fish, nuts, dark chocolate, and dark leafy greens. Please visit our website to learn more about our many other amenities and services at the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research suggests there is no interaction between the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine and it is safe to get them at the same time. The November issue of The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal published a study involving more than 15,000 participants of which 431 received both a flu and COVID shot at the same time. Of those individuals, the majority did not have any symptoms and those who did, were mild.
The American Medical Association recommends if you do want to get the flu and COVID vaccines during your visit, make sure the injections are at least an inch apart. This way in the event a reaction at the site does occur, your physician will be able to tell which vaccine was responsible. Dr. Greg Martin, a professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, and president of the Society for Critical Care Medicine says, “The likelihood of side effects goes up modestly, but they are likely to be mild and won’t affect your health or make you feel miserable for long.” The CDC says a flu shot prevents getting sick from the flu in between 40% and 60% of those who are inoculated when the vaccine is well matched to that year's viruses. For many who get the flu, the vaccine helps reduce the length and severity of their illness. Doctors say it is safe for most to get the flu vaccine if you are mildly sick from a cold or the flu. However they add if your symptoms are severe, your immune system is already busy trying to recover so wait until you feel better to get the vaccine. *This blog is for informational purposes only, please consult your healthcare provider for further information. MorningStar of Billings is proud to be one of the state’s finest senior living communities and provides independent living, assisted living and memory care. We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to learn more about pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour to experience the area’s top retirement community. Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/is-it-safe-to-take-the-covid-19-vaccine-and-the-flu-shot-at-the-same-time?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Dec%2002%2006:29:41%20EST%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health Assisted living communities such as MorningStar of Billings are designed to offer seniors 24/7 personal care with a wide range of wellness services targeted to their needs. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living referral websites, explains in many cases, today’s communities may be a healthier, safer alternative for many elderly adults. Along with giving residents the help they need to maintain their independence, residents and families get peace of mind knowing someone is always around to lend a helping hand as well as all the benefits derived from the social connections offered by community life.
A Place for Mom cites several studies, which shows the extensive services and programs offered by assisted living can aid seniors in avoiding many commonplace problems affecting the elderly. Getting the proper nutrition is one of those things as many elderly people struggle with meal prep and cooking, and for those who are no longer driving, buying groceries can be challenging. At MorningStar of Billings, our Executive Chef specializes in preparing tasty, nutritional meals designed to delight our residents. Another problem many elderly adults have is managing medications properly. In fact the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists estimate people aged 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year so it is no wonder many seniors get confused. However experts warn skipping doses or taking too much medication can result in deadly consequences and unfortunately too many seniors end up in the hospital each year due to medication “non-compliance.” For this reason, MorningStar of Billings offers medication management to our residents. Perhaps most importantly we provide a full range of wellness programs and activities designed to keep residents engaged mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. Our holistic support allows residents to enjoy their retirement years and live as comfortably and as safely as possible. For more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care; please see our website. Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/social-life-for-seniors-why-assisted-living-is-better/ If you are a senior who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin. For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did. And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues.
Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin. In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints. Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair. Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles. Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.” They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some. Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself. Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training. At MorningStar at Arrowhead, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents. We are committed to provide the best senior living Glendale AZ has to offer, which includes exemplary service to our residents to ensure their utmost comfort, wellbeing and safety. Please see our website to learn more. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Before beginning any exercise, be sure to check with your healthcare provider. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Glendale, AZ 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, MorningStar at Arrowhead provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/ The National Institute on Aging wants everyone to know asking questions at medical appointments is a good thing but remember, a doctor only has so much time allocated to each patient so come prepared. Their advice includes asking for clarification whenever the doctor uses a term to describe a medical condition you are unfamiliar with. Also be sure you understand how and when to take a new medication. For example if it should be taken with food, does that mean before, during or after a meal?
If your physician wants you to have a test done, find out why and what sort of preparation it will entail. Ask if there are any side effects or danger getting tested, and how long it will take to get the results. You may want to request a copy of the results, and if a specialist is doing the test, make sure they send the results to your physician. Once results are in, your doctor will most likely make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, your physical exam, lab work and medical tests. Ask your doctor to describe the condition, how serious is it, if it is a long-term disease and/or curable, and what is the best course of treatment. If it includes medications, ask why you are taking it, the side effects and how long you will be on it. If the doctor recommends surgery, ask why he/she is recommending it, the risks and benefits, and if there are alternatives to surgery. How expensive is the procedure, will you be hospitalized and how long is the recovery period? The Cleveland Clinic explains taking an active role in your medical care has many advantages and ensures you are equipped with the information you need for your utmost health and safety. MorningStar of Billings is a senior living community offering 32 free-standing cottages and 72 bright suites for independent living. We additionally have 70 suites for assisted living and another 36 secure suites for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses. Please visit our website to learn more about us. While you are there, use our Virtual Assistant to inquire about availability, pricing and to request a tour. We look forward to hearing from you. Source: nia.nih.gov/health/what-should-i-ask-my-doctor-during-checkup After studying the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, researchers have found it to be mutually beneficial for both parties. Additionally since people are living longer, these relationships become even more important over time as a 2015 Boston College study recently reported. The data, collected over a 19-year period, “found that emotionally close ties between grandparents and adult grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms for both.”
The study’s authors said one of the advantages for older people close to their grandchildren is they are exposed to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Grandchildren benefit from the wisdom grandparents have gained over a lifetime, and can be more open to advice from grandparents than their own parents. Grandparents also have a lot to share regarding the family history, along with the history of our country and the world. Another study out of England examining the relationship of children between the ages of 11-16 found children with close relationships to their grandparents had fewer emotional and behavioral problems and fewer difficulties with peers. The bond appears to help lessen the emotional damage children can experience when parents separate or divorce. Moreover as grandparents are typically not authoritarian figures in their grandchildren’s lives, they often act as confidants in situations where an older child might not wish to confide in a parent. Grandparents can be more objective than a parent and may have more time on their hands to really listen to their grandchildren. Another advantage to grandparenting is it gives a person purpose in their later years; however experts say to remember you are a role model for your grandchildren so make sure you are a good one. At MorningStar Senior Living of Billings, we offer the finest independent living and assisted living as well as memory care. Setting ourselves apart from other senior living community, we have a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in our team in order to provide a true home for residents. Visit our website for more information as well as pricing and availability. Source: bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/2015/12/13/close-grandparent-grandchild-relationships-have-healthy-benefits/kxL8AnugpVBKknDuzHZDKO/story.html According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost one-third of all seniors live by themselves. In terms of numbers, that’s an estimated 13.8 million seniors. Experts say living alone doesn’t necessarily mean an individual is lonely but it often is the case. Not to mention, the pandemic certainly made matters worse as many seniors self-isolated from family and friends.
Whatever the cause of loneliness, research shows it takes a toll on people. In fact, a study from Brigham Young University reports loneliness can be as deadly as smoking or obesity. Study authors explain senior isolation “may complicate existing conditions, encourage an unhealthy lifestyle, and affect cognition.” The American Psychiatric Association says seniors who report feelings of loneliness are more susceptible to depression and poor health habits including excessive drinking, smoking and lack of exercise. Research from the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging found the “risk of Alzheimer’s nearly doubled in lonely adults, and mental decline was faster.” Senior living communities like MorningStar at Arrowhead provide residents a lifestyle that focuses on comfort, wellness, and community. Along with extensive care services, we offer a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connectivity. Programs range from physical exercise classes to art classes, trivia and card games, bingo, clubs and more. We tell residents if we do not offer something you wish to pursue, start a club and encourage others to join. Assisted living residents receive a range of services such as 24/7 care managers, certified med care managers and scheduled health & wellness evaluations. A licensed nurse is onsite during week days and on-call 24/7. Furthermore, MorningStar helps families arrange auxiliary care services to deal with other health concerns on an as needed basis. MorningStar is committed to excellence and helping seniors have better lives. If you are looking at retirement communities in Glendale, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Arrowhead. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other retirement communities Glendale, AZ 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 Arrowhead provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. Source: aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/senior-isolation-facts |
AuthorMorningStar Senior Living’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Archives
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