MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Researchers say a future of hip or knee “replacements” done without surgery may be on the horizon. By employing a combination of drugs and stem-cell therapies, it may be possible to “repair cartilage before osteoarthritis sets in or an operation is needed.” Osteoarthritis, commonly afflicting the elderly, is a degenerative disease attributed to "wear and tear" but can also be caused by earlier sports injuries, obesity and other trauma to the cartilage around the knee, hip or shoulder joints. Experts explain the loss of cartilage, which does not have its own blood supply or nerves, limits its ability to mend itself and is the major cause of joint pain and arthritis affecting over 32.5 million people in the U.S. In 2017 alone, there were 754,000 knee replacements done and 448,000 hip replacements. Michael Longaker, a professor of surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and co-director of its Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, explains the goal...

The Alzheimer’s Association has some effective tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia . As the ability to find the right words or to speak at all is one of the effects of the devastating disease, it is helpful to learn some tips to make the communication process easier. Typically, in the early stages of the disease, individuals repeat themselves often and can easily lose their train of thought. They may start to avoid speaking and have trouble following a conversation, and may even use gestures rather than words. Experts suggest at this stage that you make sure to address the person directly, don’t speak through a caregiver, and allow them plenty of time to answer you back. The middle stages of the disease can signal lots of changes and usually lasts the longest. If you wish to speak with the individual, make sure to do it in a quiet space without any distractions. Your questions should be short and only require a si...

As more and more seniors watch friends and relatives move into retirement communities, many wonder if it is the right step for them. While obviously a decision of this magnitude should be carefully made, there is data showing the majority of seniors in retirement communities are happy they made the move. In fact, studies further indicate seniors in such communities tend to live longer. One report from the United States General Accounting Office (GAO), states “seniors who choose to live in retirement communities live 1.5 to 2 years longer than seniors who choose to retire in their homes.” Researchers explain that many communities offer seniors a higher quality of life with their wide range of activities including physical fitness classes, group games and other entertainment opportunities. Also, we all know maintaining a home can be stressful and even more so as we age, while retirement communities provide a virtually carefree lifestyle. Senior communities seamlessly provide the chance ...

For many seniors, there comes a time when they feel they are not living life on their own terms, and routine, day-to-day activities start becoming more difficult. To determine if assisted living is the right choice for a parent or spouse, experts say you need to consider the amount of care they require on a daily basis. If it is more personal care than he/she can get (or afford) with in-home services or in an independent living community , yet they don’t need 24-hour medical care and supervision, assisted living is the ideal option. People often confuse assisted living with nursing homes; however, they are not the same thing. Nursing homes provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care while assisted living provides help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enhance residents’ quality of life within a residential setting. While some families may experience sticker shock when first learning the cost of assisted living, you need to consider everything it includes. For example, Mo...

Have you been thinking it’s time for a change in your living arrangements and would love a more manageable, relaxed lifestyle? If you have started looking into senior living options in the Pasadena area your next question may be “what is the difference between independent living and assisted living , and which one is best suited to my needs?” Independent living is ideal for active seniors who no longer wish to maintain their own home and desire a more carefree lifestyle. While each community can vary, many offer amenities such as social activities, wellness programs, day trips and meals. It is also perfect for those who love the sound of predictable budgeting, community living and built-in companionship. Care services are not provided but being a resident in an independent community may give you priority for a move into assisted living, if the need should arise. Assisted living is designed for seniors who need help with everyday activities in order to improve their quality of lif...

Walking is an exercise we can do while hanging out with friends and/or enjoying the sounds of nature while achieving a good workout. We can do it from right outside our home or by exploring parks and nature areas around us. It doesn’t require special equipment, although experts say you do need a pair of good walking shoes and appropriate clothing including sun protection. * Before beginning any new exercise, please consult with your healthcare provider . The Harvard Medical School says walking may be “one of the most powerful ‘medicines’ available. It can help lower your risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and even keep your memory sharp.” Evidence also shows short walks can be as beneficial as longer ones. In fact just 30 minutes a day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. Maintaining good posture during a walk is important in avoiding injuries. If you ...

MorningStar of Pasadena, a vibrant 55+ independent living community , offers seniors a warm, welcoming home. Our community allows seniors to comfortably age in place with an array of resort-style amenities and a broad range of meaningful activities. We are located in the commercial and cultural heart of the San Gabriel Valley and close to shopping, medical facilities, and other services. Pasadena is also home to renowned museums and parks as well as the Rose Parade. MorningStar of Pasadena allows you to enjoy your retirement as it was meant to be - stress free. With 149 suites, we have a range of floor plans from studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations that are sure to meet your needs. Each has a kitchenette with premium cabinets and counters, and some have a private balcony. All bathrooms are handicapped-accessible, and every apartment is equipped with an emergency call system. All that’s missing are your personal furnishings and treasures—even the furry kind (yes, we’...

Recent studies suggest while some memory decline is inevitable with aging, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain and enhance memory function as well as our overall brain health. The US News & World Report says one of the things we can do is to routinely be physically active as studies show it provides a lower risk of mental decline and Alzheimer's disease. They explain physical activity optimizes blood flow to the entire body including the brain, and helps keep our memories sharp. However the type of physical exercise is important and should include a minimum of 30 minutes a day of cardio such as power walking, running, biking or swimming. (Before beginning any new exercise, experts say check with your healthcare provider.) If you worry about forgetting things, Dr. Vernon Williams, a sports neurologist and founding director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, says for most of us it ...

Over the last decade, there have been many studies done regarding the various benefits of pets for seniors including providing loyal companionship and unconditional love. They can help keep a senior active as even if you don’t want to go for a walk, you know your dog needs one. In fact, studies show seniors with dogs are more physically active than other older adults without pets. Another thing about taking a dog out for a walk is it is a great way to meet new friends. However, before you rush out to get a dog or cat, veterinarians caution seniors (and their well-intentioned family members), to remember some animals are better suited to the energy level and temperament of older adults. They recommend several breeds of dogs that have a good disposition and are easy to care for. One breed making the list is the French Bulldog as they are known as reliable companions and good walking partners. Poodles and Schipperkes are both loyal and intelligent and also easy to care for. Veterinarians...

As more and more seniors watch friends and relatives move into retirement communities, many wonder if it is the right step for them. While obviously a decision of this magnitude should be carefully made, there is data showing the majority of seniors in retirement communities are happy they made the move. In fact, studies further indicate seniors in such communities tend to live longer. One report from the United States General Accounting Office (GAO), states “ seniors who choose to live in retirement communities live 1.5 to 2 years longer than seniors who choose to retire in their homes.” Researchers explain that many communities offer seniors a higher quality of life with their wide range of activities including physical fitness classes, group games and other entertainment opportunities. Also, we all know maintaining a home can be stressful and even more so as we age, while retirement communities provide a virtually carefree lifestyle. Independent living and assisted living communiti...

Not only is physical exercise good for our heart and cognitive health but it can help older adults stay steady on their feet. Studies show regular physical activity can reduce the risk of falls in older adults at a high risk of falling by nearly one third. Experts explain certain kinds of exercise helps increase muscle mass and bone strength as well as improve balance and coordination, fight off osteoporosis, and reduce the risk for fractures and broken bones. Some of the best exercises are known as weight-bearing, which require a person to carry their weight and work against gravity. Examples include walking, dancing, hiking, climbing stairs, jogging and playing tennis or basketball. Doctors say if you can manage it, increasing your pace during aerobics, jogging and power walking make the exercises even more effective at strengthening bone density. Resistance exercises also work against gravity and help build muscle mass and improve bone strength. Strength training with weights, wei...