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Discover Safer Senior Living

1/31/2025

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Safety is one of the most important things when it comes to picking a senior living community. Especially for seniors in assisted living, who are more vulnerable to fall-related accidents, with nearly 3 million seniors seeking medical treatment each year. This is why finding a community that prioritizes safety is critical. MorningStar at Jordan Creek empowers seniors to live confidently in a community that values their well-being with robust safety initiatives and attentive staff.

Minimizing Fall Risks in Senior Living

Senior living communities should be designed with safety in mind. But MorningStar Assisted Living in Des Moines takes safety to another level. Their communities dedicate special attention to identifying and reducing potential hazards. This means keeping communal spaces and hallways clutter free with good lighting and marked turns or steps. MorningStar also prioritizes safety in these following ways:

  • Ramps and elevators for effortless mobility
  • Strategically placed handrails for added support
  • Senior-friendly layouts that prioritize convenience and safety

MorningStar Offers a Safer Way to Live

MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers a new standard of safety in assisted living. Every element of the community’s design is geared toward fall prevention and accident reduction. Their round-the-clock caregiving team, along with strategically placed cameras and attentive staff members, provides continuous monitoring and assistance. This proactive approach not only helps to prevent falls but also creates a supportive environment where seniors feel secure to engage in daily activities, socialize with friends, and enjoy outdoor spaces. At MorningStar, Safety is more than just a priority; it’s a foundation for fostering independence and enhancing quality of life. 

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 
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Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.
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Embrace Support and Independence in Assisted Living

1/29/2025

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Everyday tasks can be really overwhelming for seniors struggling with health concerns or symptoms of memory loss. Unfortunately, there is a lot of stigma surrounding senior living homes. This stigma stems from misinformation. Modern senior living communities are active and dynamic spaces for seniors to enjoy. Negative ideas about senior living communities can prevent seniors from exploring positive environments where they can receive the support they need.

MorningStar Senior Living in Des Moines redefines assisted living for seniors. Here’s how we can partner together to change the narrative around assisted living to celebrate all the benefits it has to offer. 
Recognizing the SignsThe first step in getting your loved one the care they need is recognizing any changes in their behavior or personality. Aging tends to bring natural changes in memory, mobility, and health that can make certain daily tasks more difficult. This can cause normal everyday things to fall by the wayside. Remain attentive to any of the following changes so that you can identify when your loved one needs help: 
  • A lack of fresh food in the house
  • Overfilled trash or clutter
  • Unpaid bills or unchecked mailbox
  • Missed doctors appointments or empty pill bottles
If you are noticing these signs, it may be time to have an honest discussion with others about how to address these challenges in an empathetic way with your loved one. 
Independence and Assisted LivingNeeding help doesn’t mean losing independence. Seniors can adapt to life’s changes while still preserving dignity and freedom in assisted living. At MorningStar residents experience a balance of independence and support with personalized care plans and tailored activities with on-site care managers on stand-by if necessary. 
Find Assisted Living Options Near YouMorningStar Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 
Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.
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Surprise an Elderly Loved One With an Unexpected Gift

1/29/2025

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Do you have an elderly relative living alone or in a senior apartments too far to visit?  How about sending something special to show your thinking of them even if it’s not their birthday or a holiday.  One idea is to send them a gift basket filled with goodies to eat and drink, gifts to entertain, and items to make their lives a little easier or more pleasant.  

For your coffee drinking parent or grandparent, a bag of gourmet coffee and a nice new mug is one way to start your basket, or add a collection of teas that include decaffeinated and herbal options.  Do they love chocolate or prefer salty snacks?  Adjust your selection to include high-end chocolates and other delightful treats or a nice selection of crackers and cheeses.  For a book lover, add a novel you think they would enjoy or a coffee table book on famous gardens, architecture, maps, photography or wherever matches their interest.   

Now pack the basket with items such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word-search books, a new coloring book and fresh colored pencils or markers.  If they have low vision, include large print playing cards and books.  If your loved one is feeling anxious or having a hard time sleeping, consider including a weighted blanket in the package.  While they come in many sizes, it is suggested you choose one that is 10% percent of their weight.   For example, if they weigh 150lbs, buy a 15lb blanket, and if they do not have a blanket that exactly matches 10% of their weight, you can go up a couple of pounds.   

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we offer a vibrant and carefree lifestyle for residents with a full range of care and hospitality services, luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities. Our senior apartments offer stylish suites for assisted living with a selection of floor plans.  In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the care of those suffering from memory impairment. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
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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 assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
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Keeping Someone Living With Alzheimer's Disease Safe

1/29/2025

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Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms causing impaired judgement, forgetfulness, and agitation, as well as problems with gait and balance increasing the risk for falls. This is why experts say it is important to take the proper steps to keep your spouse or mom or dad safe if they have Alzheimer’s. They explain the goal of caregivers should be a balancing act between providing an environment that offers as much independence as possible, while at the same time, ensuring the person’s safety and wellbeing. 

Recommendations include removing knobs from the stove, and if the person can handle it, installing automatic shut-off valves with timer and motion sensors. At a certain stage of the disease, it is not safe for the person to be cooking, and if needed, investigate food delivery services. Additionally, lower the temperature of the water coming from your taps to avoid the person getting scalded from hot water. As confusion is part of Alzheimer’s, experts say store dangerous chemicals and cleaning supplies in a locked area. 

To reduce the risk of falls, install grab bars in the bathroom and put non-skid mats in the tub or shower. Stairways should be well-lit and uncluttered as well as hallways and pathways from room to room. Doctors who work with Alzheimer’s patients caution it is important to remember it is a progressive disease, and there may be a time when more restrictive protocols are necessary such as closing off a staircase altogether.       

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers suites for residents living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Suites are equipped with handicapped-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems.  In addition, we offer SafelyYou technology, which can detect and prevent falls for residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence.
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The Reflections Neighborhood is designed with the needs of our special residents in mind and features inviting common areas including an enclosed courtyard. Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in daily activities such as arts and crafts, listening or dancing to music, physical exercise, and special celebrations. Please visit our website to learn more about our compassionate, loving memory care.

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. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.
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The Move to an Assisted Living Community is a Big Life Change

1/27/2025

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No matter how old we are, change can be challenging. For seniors who have had just that much more time to get used to the way things are, a change in the status quo can be difficult. When faced with a change in lifestyle and residence, a person may mourn what they perceive as a loss of their independence and younger self, and the loss of a home filled with a lifetime of memories. However, regardless of how we long to keep things the same, change is a fact of life; and for many seniors, life could be better with a little daily help. 

When mom or dad would benefit from the many services offered by an assisted living community, there are a few things families can do to help ease the transition. To start with, senior care specialists recommend making the effort to set up mom or dad’s new suite with familiar, well-loved furnishings and mementos rather than buying all new things.

Another important step toward a smooth transition is to give it time. Experts say it generally takes anywhere from three to six months to adjust to community life, but in some cases, residents settle into it quickly. If your parent is one to make a slow adjustment, remember why the move was necessary in the first place including a real concern for their safety and well-being as well as your need for peace of mind. 

Some experts say it may be helpful to limit your visits and phone calls to allow your parent some time to find their own way. Also, if they want to vent about how unhappy they are, give them some space to do so. Validating their feelings can help them work through their fears and uncertainty about the changes they are experiencing. 

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, our team is experienced in helping new residents feel at home and we work with both them and their family to help with the transition. Our beautiful community offers luxury amenities, wellness programs and activities designed to enhance quality of life. Contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding assisted living or memory care at MorningStar.
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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 assisted living and memory care in Wheat Ridge, CO.
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Seniors Enjoy these Benefits in Assisted Living

1/27/2025

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Finding the right senior living community means finding the right space where seniors feel comfortable, cared for, and at home. For many seniors, companion living provides the perfect balance of support and companionship. At MorningStar Senior Living in Des Moines, seniors can share their retirement experience with a spouse, close friend, or another trusted individual while receiving personalized care and attention from trusted staff. 

Shared Apartments in Senior Living

Companion living at MorningStar is great for couples to continue sharing their lives together in their own suite filled with their cherished belongings and memories. For those interested in living with a friend or another family member, there are options for a bit more space that is great for mutual support and connection. Shared suites and apartments in senior living provide a sense of familiarity and comfort which helps to ease the transition into assisted living.

Companionship with a Purpose

While trusted senior living communities provide the best living care possible, it’s always great to have someone near that seniors can trust and rely on. This is why companion living isn’t just ideal for sharing space, but it’s a great way to extend care and support to one another. A trusted companion or spouse will often know your behaviors and routines better than anyone else. This makes it easy to identify any changes or health concerns early on. 

A Vibrant Retirement Community 

Beyond the benefits of companion living, MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines offers a vibrant community filled with opportunities for social engagement and enrichment. Residents can enjoy a wide range of activities, including fitness classes, group outings, and social events, all designed to promote connection and well-being. Our 24/7 care managers are always on hand to provide assistance and ensure peace of mind.

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 
​
Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent living in Des Moines, IA.
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The Move to MorningStar at Mountain Shadows

1/22/2025

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No matter what age we are, moving can be a big deal. Whether as a high schooler changing schools, or a retiree embarking on a new chapter to an assisted living community, moving is a big deal. 

For older adults, a move to assisted living may include giving up a beloved family home. In this case, they probably have a whole house full of things and will need to downsize. That alone can be tough, as the person will most likely need to give up possessions they have had for years. For more on downsizing, the Internet offers a variety of suggestions to help you get started.  

The MorningStar at Mountain Shadows team understands every resident’s move is unique and recognizes it for what it is – a major lifestyle transition. This is why we approach each move-in with the utmost sensitivity, and sincerely strive to nurture a good relationship right from the start. We seek to reinforce the positive aspects of community life, and do all we can to help the person embrace their new adventure.

Once your family decides assisted living at MorningStar is a good fit, we request a deposit to secure your chosen suite. From there our “House to Home” process begins in earnest. This includes getting together vital information, agreements and permissions inherent to the move such as a medical assessment and a physician’s plan of care, along with other documentation.  

Practical advice from us includes recommending moving companies experienced in senior transitions. Furniture carts and dollies are available to borrow, if needed. We also offer packing tips and suggestions on the best items to bring. Most importantly we keep the lines of communication open as we know it is vital to a satisfactory experience. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadow’s assisted living in Colorado Springs is designed to support and engage residents’ mind, body and spirit. Our wide array of amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities help nurture residents’ independence for the best quality of life. In addition, our beautiful community offers specialized memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living at MorningStar.
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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. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.
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Reduce Your Risk of Falls

1/20/2025

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Many of us have heard about or know a senior who has had a fall that led to a serious injury. Each year statistics report one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury; and approximately 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. Falls resulted in over 38,000 senior deaths in 2021. 

The Harvard Medical School reports the highest risk factor for a fall is a previous fall. While a senior may have fallen or tripped and not thought much about it, as they only twisted an ankle or didn’t sustain a serious injury, the event may be a precursor to another fall. 

There are things seniors in assisted living can do to protect themselves from a fall and it starts by being aware of any risk factors you may have including vision and hearing problems, which can make a fall more likely. Experts say stiff joints can hamper your gait and balance and make it easier to fall, as do certain medications for blood pressure and antihistamines. As a deficiency in vitamin D decreases a person’s bone mineral density and strength of the bones, it too can cause instability and raise the risk for a fall. Experts report even something as unrelated as a head cold or the flu can cause dizziness and increase your risk.  
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To help boost core strength and improve balance, talk to your healthcare provider about the best type of exercises to do. Other steps to decrease the likelihood of a fall are to keep moving to loosen stiff joints and help build strength, wear sensible shoes and remove home hazards. Finally make sure your home has plenty of good lighting.  

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our community is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety.  Each of our suites is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. We also recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide a full calendar of activities that includes a variety of exercise programs.  Visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s assisted living in Colorado Springs.

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 assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.
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Memory Care at MorningStar’s Community in Colorado Springs

1/17/2025

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If a spouse, parent or another loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease and the time has come for more comprehensive care, you will want the very best. However, the problem can lie in trying to figure out what is the best, and a good place to start is with a company you can trust.  

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows in Colorado Springs is part of MorningStar Senior Living, which was founded in 2003 on a mission statement of honoring God, valuing seniors and investing generously in our staff. Along with assisted living, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides dedicated care in our distinct Reflections Neighborhood designed to meet the special needs of those with memory impairment.  

To encourage independence, confidence and a sense of freedom; Reflections Neighborhood uses clear wayfinding that incorporates color and pictures making it easier for residents to navigate hallways and recognize their own room. Warm and welcoming common areas help residents feel right at home. Our all-inclusive care provides a full range of services including senior care as well as meals tailored to the appetites and abilities of residents. 

MorningStar’s holistic memory care is delivered by dedicated dementia care specialists through our proprietary program, Lavender Sky. The program embodies the philosophy of everything we believe and strive for in service to our memory-impaired residents as we strive to encourage, engage and respect each individual. 

To keep your loved one safe, we also use a technology called Safely You that allows us to detect and prevent falls for memory care residents with (AI) Artificial Intelligence. Moreover, we are close to excellent medical facilities such as Penrose Hospital. For your convenience, our extensive services include transportation to and from medical appointments. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.
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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 and memory care in Colorado Springs.  Please contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.
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The Basics of Medicare

1/15/2025

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If you recently had a medical procedure or were hospitalized, you may be confused about a recent bill and are wondering what Medicare will cover, what your gap insurance will cover, and what you will be responsible for. It may help to have a better understanding of the four main parts of Medicare.

Part A helps pay for inpatient stays in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, some home care and end-of-life hospice care that accept Medicare. Hospital services covered include a semi-private room and meals, general nursing, drugs and supplies, inpatient rehabilitation, and some blood transfusions. Skilled nursing services include care for things like recovering from hip replacement surgery or stroke. Part A charges a deductible for hospital stays (the fee for 2025 is $1,676) but your Medigap insurance may cover that expense as well as other deductibles. Hospital stays for up to 60 days and virtually most services are covered by Medicare; but the one exception is not in a private room.  

Part B covers doctors and outpatient services, and together with part A make up what is considered “Original Medicare.” Part B pays for diagnostic screenings, lab tests, preventive services, some medical equipment and transportation. It covers doctor visits and other outpatient services. There is a monthly premium with Part B, and in 2025 it is $185. For those making over $106,000 annually it may be higher. 

Part C is what Medicare Advantage comes under, and is privately held insurance rather than Medicare, which is run by the federal government. If you choose Medicare Advantage, you will still need to sign up for Medicare part A and B and pay the premium for part B. Medicare Advantage plans set their own deductibles and you typically need to stay in a Network and use your plan’s approved providers or pay higher out of pocket costs. 

Part D is again from a private insurer and pays for some of your prescription drugs. Generally there is a co-pay for each prescription, and you may have a premium, and a yearly deductible. Check with Medicare regarding rules for higher yearly drug costs and your responsibility.

Remember Medicare offers an open enrollment period each year to allow recipients to make changes to their plan. The period starts on October 15 and ends December 7. Any changes you make during this time will go into effect the following year. 
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At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our 55+ community offers luxury assisted living in Colorado Springs with a variety of floor plans, onsite amenities, wellness programs and activities. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides specialized care. Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

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 assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.
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    Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, MorningStar is committed to giving residents a quality of life surpassing that of other senior living communities. To experience firsthand the finest in senior living, contact us to schedule a tour.

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