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Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

June 30, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Summertime can be a wonderful season for seniors to spend time with loved ones in the sunshine. However, it is important to take the proper safety precautions if you are a senior planning to spend a lot of time outside this summer. Below is a quick list of summer safety tips for any senior living in Centennial. 

Keep it Shady

Staying in the shade as much as possible is a perfect way to beat the heat. However, if that’s not an option, there are other ways you can protect yourself from the harmful UV rays of the sun. When shade or air conditioning is not available, make sure you have backup “shade” in the form of a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, at least 30 SPF sunscreen, a light cardigan, parasol, etc. Whatever you need to feel comfortable and shady this summer, make sure you keep it on hand so you are always ready for some safe fun in the sun. Doing what you can to externally regulate your temperature will help you offset your body’s natural diminishing of sweat and fat. 

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water can quite literally be a life saver for seniors in the summer. The heat of this season can cause dehydration very, very quickly. This can contribute to heat stroke and other common problems seniors face as temperatures rise. However, by keeping a reusable bottle of water filled and with you at all times, you can grab a quick sip as often as you need to mitigate these risks. A good rule of thumb to follow to stay hydrated is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 100 pounds, you need at least 50 ounces of water per day if you are not exerting yourself or sweating. Of course, make sure you speak to your doctor about what your specific needs are. Everyone is different, will have different conditions, and will be on different medications, etc. So ensure your needs are being met by speaking with your doctor about how you can best keep yourself hydrated. 

Check Medications

Medications are another important thing to keep in mind as a senior in the summer. Some medications need to be taken with more water, can make you sensitive to sunlight, cause certain organs to have to work harder, etc. Always check the side effects of any medications you use, and talk to your doctor about how best to navigate your lifestyle with them. It is also vital that you have a consistent schedule for taking your medication(s), so that you can avoid any complications involved with taking them all at different times every day. By knowing the side effects and having a set schedule, you can make this summer even breezier with that extra peace of mind. 

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Centennial 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 independent living in Centennial.

June 30, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, independent living
senior living

Senior-Friendly Summertime Family Fun Ideas

June 28, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Summertime is a great time to make lots and lots of wonderful memories with loved ones. For seniors, however, there are risks to take into account when it comes to spending a lot of time in the heat. Luckily, there are lots of things you can do in the summer that are fun, and still safe and accessible for almost any senior! If you are a senior living in Centennial, keep reading to learn more about some of the amazing summertime family fun activities that you can enjoy too!

Go to a Concert

Few things bring people together quite as much as music. If you and your family have similar taste in music, a summer concert could be a great way to spend time together. Many venues are either completely indoors, or will offer shade and water in different areas if it is an outdoor concert. Whatever the case may be, make sure you bring everything you need to have a safe and fun experience. A few things you could take include: a parasol, lightweight cardigan to cover exposed skin, a reusable water bottle, medications you need, handheld fan, earplugs, sunscreen, and sunglasses. All of these items can help you have a fabulous experience, without having to worry as much about how rising temperatures can impact your health. 

Share Hobbies

Sharing hobbies with one another is a perfect way to make lifelong memories with your loved ones this summer. Have everyone get the supplies for their favorite hobby, and come together to teach each other how to do each one. This can be a fun weekend activity, or something you can do once a week to make/do fun things together! When you and your loved ones get to share what you all enjoy the most, it can be a truly remarkable bonding experience. This is especially true if you are a senior in independent living in Centennial. With all the possibilities available, you and your family can be sharing hobbies and having family fun all summer long. 

Fruit Picking

Going fruit picking is a very fun and rewarding summertime activity. There are many different farms where you can go pick seasonal summer fruits, and even get to eat what you find! This is a great way to spend quality time with your family, and get to enjoy a healthy snack at the same time! Just make sure the farm you choose has plenty of shade; and remember to bring water, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. to keep yourself safe as well. Going fruit picking can also be the perfect opportunity to try out some new recipes together. Then, you all get to truly enjoy the “fruits” of your labor!

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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Centennial has to offer.

June 28, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, independent living, retirement home
senior living

Coping with Chronic Pain as a Senior

June 23, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

As an elderly person, it can sometimes be difficult to find healthy ways to cope with chronic pain. Unfortunately, our bodies wear down as we age, and this can be hard to deal with if you have no knowledge of how to cope with it. This wearing down process can exacerbate any existing conditions you have, as well as possibly create new issues you have never had to handle before. However, in this blog, we will be discussing how you can start coping with chronic pain as a senior living in Centennial. Keep reading to learn more about how you can start living more fully despite your chronic pain.

Physical/Occupational Therapy

There are many different types of therapy that you may be able to use to help you cope with chronic pain. Two of the most common types of therapies for chronic pain management are physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Physical therapy can include things like massage, stretches, therapeutic soaks, and more. The main point is to find a professional physical therapist who can customize the right therapy for what you need. 

Occupational therapy is different from physical therapy, since it has a focus on rehabilitation. This way, if your chronic pain has made doing certain activities and tasks more difficult, you can see an occupational therapist. Then, they can help you recover as much as possible; so you can start living your life with fewer limits. 

Nutrition

What we eat has a huge impact on our health and how we feel overall throughout the day. This can be especially true as sensitivities and even allergies can develop as we get older. However, by eating clean, whole foods, you may be able to reduce inflammation, improve your metabolism, and possibly even have decreased chronic pain. Unfortunately, much of the food that is most widely available does not have much to offer when it comes to providing the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients our bodies really need. However, with a little mindfulness, and the help of a licensed nutritionist, you can learn what kinds of foods you need more or less of, so you can more effectively manage your chronic pain. 

Medication

Sometimes, the only thing that can help with certain kinds of chronic pain is pairing healthy lifestyle choices with doctor-prescribed medication. When this happens, you should make sure you have exhausted all other options, so you are doing the most to support the medication as it does its job. If you do need to take prescriptions, make sure you are well-informed about the side effects and interactions it may have with other medications, foods, sunlight, etc. This will help you understand how you need to schedule your doses, and what you can and can not do safely as a senior living in Centennial.

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 in Centennial.

June 23, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community
senior living

4 Low-Impact Exercises for Seniors

June 09, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Getting regular exercise and leading an active lifestyle is essential for maintaining your overall health. Seniors who lead an active lifestyle can decrease their risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health concerns. 

But as you get older, it can feel challenging to stay active, as high-impact activities like running and aerobics can put too much pressure on the joints.

However, for exercise to be effective, it doesn’t have to be strenuous or intense. With low-impact exercises, you can reap the benefits of an active lifestyle while also protecting your joints. 

Try these four low-impact exercises that are ideal for adults in senior living:

1. Swimming

Swimming is one of the top low-impact exercises for older adults. Swimming puts less pressure on your joints, bones, and muscles, allowing you to get the physical activity you need without the discomfort afterward. 

You don’t need to be a speed or endurance swimmer to see the benefits of this exercise. Just a few slow laps around the pool are enough to improve your heart health, lower cholesterol, and even enhance your mood.

2. Yoga

Another low-impact exercise that you can easily do in senior living is yoga. Yoga puts little to no pressure on the joints and allows you to move at a slower pace than other exercises. This reduces the risk of injury or discomfort after you’re done exercising. 

Yoga also provides mental benefits, including elevated mood, increased clarity, and stress reduction.

3. Walking

When it comes to exercise and staying healthy, sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. Taking a leisurely walk is a great low-impact exercise that can help you stay in shape without putting too much pressure on your joints. 

To keep your walk comfortable, opt for a pair of highly cushioned support sneakers. You should also avoid walking at too fast of a pace, as this can increase the pressure on your knees.

4. Cycling

If walking doesn’t sound like an appealing or exciting activity, you may be more interested in cycling as a low-impact exercise. There are two ways that you can use cycling to get in better shape and stay active.

You can ride a traditional bicycle around your senior living community, or you can use a stationary bike in your community’s gym. Both options yield the same benefits for your health and well-being without asking too much of your joints.

Staying Active as an Older Adult

Are you looking for ways to stay active that don’t create too much impact on vulnerable joints? As you get older, your joints can become more susceptible to damage, leading to chronic pain and stiffness that can make staying active more difficult. 

Fortunately, there are ways to lead an active lifestyle without increasing your joint pain. Low-impact exercises can be a great choice for people of any age who prefer activities that are more gentle on the body. 

From a calming morning yoga session to a bicycle ride around the neighborhood, low-impact exercises can keep you healthy and strong — without sacrificing your joints. 

June 09, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, senior living facility
senior living

4 Ways Swimming Can Be Beneficial for Older Adults

June 05, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Exercising and staying active is an important part of maintaining your physical and mental health as you age. At the same time, exercising is often easier said than done as you get older. Limited mobility and ongoing health issues can make it very difficult to do most exercises, and your options can become very limited. 

Swimming is one of the best options for seniors who want to stay active. Swimming is a low-impact activity that can improve your health and elevate your mood. Learn more about the benefits of swimming for older adults here:

1. Improved Cardiovascular Health

A major benefit of swimming is its impact on your heart health. Many people are under the assumption that high-impact, strenuous exercise is the best way to improve your heart health, but this isn’t the case. Even slower-paced, low-impact exercises can get your heart pumping faster. This leads to increased heart strength and better heart function overall.

2. Lower Cholesterol

One of the other significant benefits of swimming is lower cholesterol. Many seniors struggle with high cholesterol due to genetics, poor eating habits, and sedentary lifestyles. High cholesterol puts adults in senior living at an increased risk of heart attack, blood clots, and stroke. Fortunately, exercises like swimming can help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of these serious health concerns.

3. Socialization

Another benefit of swimming that may not occur to some people is the socialization aspect. Going to a shared pool gives older adults an opportunity to socialize with their peers. This is a very important benefit, as many residents of senior living facilities struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation. Swimming in a public pool or other shared space allows them to communicate with others over a common interest or activity.

4. Strengthens Bones

A serious problem that comes with aging is the weakening of your bones, leading to an increased risk of bone breakage. Swimming can be a great way to strengthen your bones over time and decrease your odds of having an injury. To maximize the bone-strengthening benefits of swimming, you should follow a diet that is high in calcium and vitamin D.

Exercises for Adults in Senior Living

Getting older can make exercising harder, but it shouldn’t make it impossible. There are several different exercises that seniors can do to stay in shape and remain healthy, including swimming. 

Swimming is one of the best ways to get exercise, and it provides a variety of different benefits. From better heart health to increased flexibility, taking a few laps around the pool is a great way for seniors to lead an active lifestyle well into their golden years.

June 05, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, senior living facility
senior living

Managing Insomnia in Older Adults: Practical Tips and Strategies

May 05, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Insomnia is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. While it’s a nuisance at any age, it can be especially stressful for older adults who need quality sleep to remain healthy.

When a senior struggles with insomnia, it can put excess strain on their heart and exacerbate cognitive concerns. Learn some practical tips and strategies for managing insomnia in older adults.

Set a Schedule

One simple way to improve your loved one’s sleeping habits is by creating a sleeping schedule for them.

Over time, adhering to a schedule can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. A sleep schedule for a senior living on their own or with minimal assistance may call for them to turn in at 9 p.m. every night and wake up at 7 a.m. every morning.

When someone sticks to a sleep schedule, it can gradually train their body to follow a more regular pattern of rest. If needed, you can always amend the schedule to be more flexible for seniors with unique needs or preferences.

Create a Comfortable Environment

A common factor behind many cases of insomnia is discomfort. Whether it be physical or mental discomfort, many older adults struggle with the ability to get comfortable at bedtime.

To help resolve this issue, try to create a more comfortable environment for your senior loved one. Choose soft, breathable bedding that won’t cause them to overheat. Being too hot can significantly hinder sleep quality, so it’s important to stay cool throughout the night.

If the older adult in your life can’t sleep because of emotional discomfort, they might need a little soothing in the form of solutions like white noise machines or aromatherapy. Light background noise and lavender essential oil can produce a calming effect that induces sleepiness in a senior living with insomnia.

Develop a Sleep-Friendly Diet

Sometimes, dietary habits are the culprit behind sleep troubles. Having caffeine too late in the day or consuming too much sugar can lead to insomnia for many. Having your senior loved one adhere to a sleep-friendly diet can help.

Start by identifying the dietary factors that lead to their trouble sleeping, and limit or completely eliminate these items. Avoiding these foods can help your senior loved one fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night.

Addressing Insomnia in Senior Living

Do you know an older adult who’s struggling with insomnia? Tossing and turning during the night can burden anyone, but it can have serious effects on seniors. Lack of quality sleep can contribute to everything from heart disease to increased cancer risk.

To help the senior in your life get a better night’s sleep, try implementing strategies like setting a sleep schedule or following a sleep-friendly diet. You might be surprised what a difference it makes to your loved one’s overall well-being.

May 05, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, senior living facility
senior living

4 Things to Look Out for While Touring Senior Living Communities

March 29, 2023 by MorningStar Senior Living in senior living

Senior living communities are full of helpful amenities and supportive people that help you thrive in your later years. But when you’re touring prospective communities, you must know what to look for so that you choose the right one. 
Here are some things to keep an eye out for as you go on tours. 

1. Fitness Options
Physical fitness is one of the most important aspects of graceful aging — when it comes to protecting your health long-term, exercise is extremely valuable. 

So check out the different health and wellness options that each community offers. Most places have indoor fitness equipment and swimming pools, and many offer group fitness classes, which are a wonderful addition to any senior living community. These sessions allow you to socialize with other residents while moving your body in ways that feel good to you.
If benefits like these aren’t offered, it may not be a good fit for you. Staying active and fit — even if you just take a walk each day — is incredibly important for your physical and mental health. 

2. Cleanliness and Maintenance

As you tour the buildings in a prospective senior living community, pay attention to how clean and orderly things are. A community that doesn’t have good maintenance and cleaning services can be hazardous to your health. Beyond that, it simply isn’t enjoyable to live in dirty conditions. 
If you have any questions about the frequency and availability of maintenance, don’t be afraid to ask your tour guide. If something breaks and needs to be repaired, you will have to rely on their maintenance team. 

3. Staff Attitudes 
​
When you go on a tour, do you notice an overwhelmingly negative atmosphere? Do the staff members look displeased or hostile? These are common red flags that you must keep an eye out for. To be clear, staff members are human and shouldn’t be expected to always maintain perfect attitudes. However, a positive atmosphere is essential for your mental health. 

You can also determine the general mood of the staff by the way your tour guide interacts with you. Are they receptive to questions? Do they act annoyed, or do they seem happy to give you their time? Don't hesitate to cut the tour short if you have a gut feeling that the staff isn’t very pleasant. You will save your time (and theirs), and you can then move on to visit a better community. 

4. Dining Options

The value of high-quality, healthy, delicious dining options cannot be overstated. Therefore, make sure you ask about the community’s dining options. 
Do they operate based on meal plans? Are there cafeteria-style buffets where you can choose your favorite foods each day? These are important questions to ask when you tour a senior living community. 

Find the Best Senior Living Community for You 

If you hold each community to high standards, you will eventually find the best community for you. Follow these tips to find the perfect senior living facility!

March 29, 2023 /MorningStar Senior Living
senior living, senior living community, senior living facility
senior living
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