MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Retirement is a time to embrace new opportunities and explore passions you might not have had time for before. At senior apartment Kirkland , we see retirement as the start of an exciting chapter filled with possibilities. Here are some tips to help you prepare for an active and fulfilling retirement that keeps you energized and engaged with life. Envision Your Ideal Retirement The first step is to imagine what you want your retirement to look like. Do you see yourself traveling the world, taking up new hobbies, or spending more time with family and friends? Take some time to think about your dreams and goals. Write them down and use them as a guide to plan your days. A clear vision will help you focus on what truly matters and make your retirement years the best yet. Stay Active and Healthy Keeping your body active is key to enjoying a fulfilling retirement. Find activities that you love, whether it’s walking, swimming, dancing, or yoga. Regular exercise not only improves your physica...

Growing older can bring with it a variety of problems including worrying about your ability to remember things or the fact that it now takes you a lot longer to learn something new. While you may be concerned about forgetting where you put your glasses or the date of your next doctor visit, or even forgetting to pay an occasional bill, experts say most likely it is just normal aging. So, what are the differences between normal forgetfulness and signs of a deeper problem? The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says it is about the degree of forgetfulness. While mild forgetfulness may be normal, memory loss that impacts your day-to-day life is a cause for concern and includes things like forgetting how to get home, or problems driving or using your phone. The NIA says this is the time to have an honest discussion with your doctor as he/she can help determine whether it is normal aging or something else that is causing the problem. If indicated, they can do a series of cognitive and medica...

Most of us experience some level of stress whether it is just occasionally or something that bothers us on a more frequent basis. If you want to know how to handle stress better, Dr. Shalu Ramchandani, an integrative medicine specialist at the Harvard-affiliated Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, recommends following good health habits. These include eating a predominantly plant-based diet, exercising on a regular basis, sleeping at least seven hours a night and staying socially connected. Another beneficial habit to reduce stress is to practice self-care, which is simply taking time out of your day to do something that makes you feel good. Experts recommend one of the top self-care habits is to practice mindfulness. Spending too much time on things such as problem-solving and negative thoughts can make you more likely to experience stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. Practicing mindfulness with breathing exercises, guided imagery a...

Ah, the thrill of adventure! Whether it's exploring a new city, visiting grandchildren in another state, or soaking in the natural beauty of a national park, travel enriches our lives and gives us stories to share. At senior apartments Kirkland , we know that traveling on a budget is not only possible but can be a fun challenge that adds to the adventure. Let’s explore some savvy tips to help you see the world without breaking the bank! Plan Ahead and Be Flexible One of the best parts about retirement is having the freedom to travel when everyone else is busy working or in school. Take advantage of this flexibility by booking your trips during off-peak times. Not only will you save money on flights and accommodations, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds. Planning in advance can also help you find the best deals and ensure that everything is in place for a smooth journey. Look for Senior Discounts There are plenty of discounts out there just waiting to be discovered. From airlines a...

Just as the rest of our body ages, so do our eyes. Older adults often complain of dry, teary or tired eyes and may have problems driving at night, experience flashes and floaters or need glasses to read. As we grow older, we are also at a higher risk for serious eye diseases that can impact our vision. One of the most serious eye diseases is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The American Macular Degeneration Foundation reports AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss among people aged 60 and older, affecting nearly 20 million Americans. The risk of developing AMD increases with age and if you are 75 or older, your risk is 1 in 3. Age-related macular degeneration causes the macula, a part of the back of the eye near the retina, to deteriorate. Experts say while it doesn’t impact peripheral vision, macular degeneration can affect how well a person sees what’s right in front of them. You are at a higher risk of getting AMD if a relative has had it or you are Caucasian, ...

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 doct...

Imagine you’re throwing a party at your house. You’ve invited all your friends and family, but suddenly strangers start walking in, uninvited, peeking at your personal photo albums and listening in on your conversations. That’s a bit like what can happen if we’re not careful with our privacy settings on social media. Here at senior apartments Kirkland , we know how important it is to enjoy these platforms while keeping our private lives protected. Let’s explore some simple steps to ensure our digital gatherings stay just as safe and cozy as our in-person ones. Share with Care We all love sharing those precious moments online—be it photos from a grandchild’s birthday or tales of our latest travel adventure. But just like at a party, it’s wise to think before you share. Ask yourself: “Would I be okay if someone I didn’t know saw this?” Avoid posting sensitive information like your address, phone number, or financial details. Tweak Your Privacy Settings Your social media settings are like...

Harvard Health restates a classic text that says tai chi will help you become “Strong as an oak, flexible as a willow, and [mentally] clear as still water.” The ancient Chinese tradition is based in the martial arts; and is a popular low-impact exercise involving slow movements and breath. Experts say tai chi is suitable for people of all ages including seniors and offers numerous benefits. Tai chi’s mind-body exercises consist of slow, flowing, and choreographed movements that provide many people a sense of calm, which is why it is often referred to as mediation in motion, or medication in motion. Its movements focus on control as well as slowing down and relaxing muscles to allow the body to move more freely. Harvard Health says for those in their 60s, 70, 80s and beyond, “tai chi’s restorative powers can help you age more gracefully and function at a higher level than those who don't practice.” Other known benefits include offering relief from common ailments such back, neck an...

Many older adults are pleasantly surprised to discover that moving to an assisted living community is not the worst thing to happen to them. In fact, statistics show that for many seniors it is a healthier, more agreeable alternative to living alone. The reason some seniors are initially reluctant to make the move is that they are unaware of the significant changes that have occurred in senior living over the years especially in terms of care options and amenities. Today’s communities like MorningStar at River Oaks offer assisted living in Houston that is geared toward meeting aging adult’s physical, emotional, spiritual and wellness needs. Also, for many seniors, assisted living offers a better choice for those who require help in their daily lives than receiving in-home care services. This is because assisted living communities offer 24/7 care and provide the security of knowing help is not far away in the event of an emergency. For seniors living alone, assisted living provide...

Now more than ever, older adults are recognizing the many benefits assisted living provides . For many it means an improved quality of life, freedom from the maintenance and upkeep of a home, and opportunities to learn new things and meet new friends. At MorningStar of Pasadena, we offer an array of senior living options, care and hospitality services, amenities, and wellness programs and activities. For seniors who require help with the ADLs (activities of daily living), MorningStar’s assisted living offers the opportunity to maintain your sense of independence and get on with living life to the fullest. With suites in a range of floor plans, residents are provided with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, and medication management. In addition, we offer all-day, restaurant-style dining; onsite amenities such as fitness center, bistro, theater, art studio, salon, etc.; scheduled transportation, housekeeping and more. Residents also enjoy participating in daily activities an...

MorningStar at River Oaks is a part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company , which takes a unique, holistic approach to its senior living communities. We are proud of our reputation for excellence and authenticity in why we serve and how we serve; and hold true to the belief that the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. Our company has thrived and expanded since its conception in 2003, when Founder/CEO Ken Jaeger started the company with the intention to “cast a new light” on senior living . From there our mission statement reads: Honor God in our business practices and relationships; Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals; and Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well. Even the name MorningStar has meaning regarding the kind of home we want to offer residents. Mr. Jaeger explains, “I had been searching for a company name for months. I wanted something that was alive and comforting, but offered a powerful, guiding force—even mor...

Let’s talk about something we all care about: keeping our skin healthy and radiant as we age. At senior apartments Kirkland , we believe that healthy skin is not just about looking good, but also about feeling confident and comfortable in our ownskin. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few simple yet effective skincare tips that I’d love to share with you. So grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of skincare! Stay Hydrated First things first—hydration is key! Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining healthy skin. As we age, our skin tends to become drier, so keeping it well-hydrated from the inside out is crucial. I like to carry a water bottle with me throughout the day to remind myself to drink up. Adding a slice of lemon or cucumber can make it even more refreshing! Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize Moisturizing is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine, especially as we age. Look for a rich, hydrating moisturizer that contains ingre...

At senior living Kirkland , we've found that a simple stroll in the great outdoors can do wonders for the mind and soul. Whether it's a leisurely walk through a local park or an adventurous hike in the woods, connecting with nature offers a wealth of mental health benefits that can uplift our spirits and bring peace to our busy minds. Rediscovering Joy in Nature Have you ever noticed how a walk in the park can lighten your mood? There's something magical about the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle breeze that carries our worries away. It's as if nature has its own way of whispering, "Relax, everything's going to be okay." Taking time to enjoy nature has a profound effect on reducing stress and anxiety. As you wander through a lush green trail or sit beside a tranquil lake, your body naturally lowers cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer and more centered. It's no wonder that many of us at senior housing Kirkland make it a po...

We have all heard about shingles but many of us are confused as to whether it is contagious and what are the chances we will get it. Experts explain shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. Moreover, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are at risk of getting shingles sometime in your life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in three people develop shingles during their lifetime. While this means many will never get shingles, some people get it more than once and others can develop flare-ups periodically throughout their lives. Dr. Michael Urban, a senior lecturer and director of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut, explains flair-ups can be a full range of symptoms or barely noticeable. Statistics show in recent years younger people are getting shingles but typically the disease occurs in those over 50 years of age and the risk incre...

While most of us have heard of Alzheimer’s, dementia and senility, we may still be confused wondering if they are all the same thing or different diseases. Doctors explain the terms are often used interchangeably but do have different meanings. Dementia describes a syndrome with a wide range of symptoms that impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities independently. While not an actual disease, the symptoms include memory loss, and difficulty with thinking clearly, making decisions and in some cases, controlling emotions. Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases or conditions. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease and one form of dementia accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. The disease was formally recognized in 1906 and named after the German physician, Aloïs Alzheimer, who first described it. Advances in medicine have found the brain can show signs of the disease years before the person experiences any symptoms. Dementia is typically irreversible but th...

Hello, dear friends and fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to chat about one of my favorite ingredients: mushrooms. These versatile little gems can turn any meal into a culinary delight. At senior living Kirkland , we've discovered that adding mushrooms to our diet is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to boost our health. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love experimenting in the kitchen, here are a few mushroom recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Creamy Mushroom Soup Let's start with a classic that never fails to warm the heart. A bowl of creamy mushroom soup is like a comforting hug on a chilly day. It's easy to make, too! Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in a pot with a little olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms of your choice—button, cremini, or portobello work wonders—and let them cook until they're golden brown. Pour in some vegetable broth, a splash of cream, and let it simmer. Blend until smooth...

A move to senior living can mean a lot of changes for a person. Our job at MorningStar of Pasadena is to make sure that experience is full of positive changes. One of the things we feel showcases our home is an outstanding food service, which is under the direction of our own Executive Chef. As an independent or assisted living resident, you will be treated to a variety of seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients from high quality producers, locally sourced whenever possible. You will also enjoy all-day, restaurant-style dining in our beautifully designed, relaxing dining room. For those times you wish to have an intimate dinner with friends or family, go ahead and reserve our private dining room. Our Chef is specifically trained in culinary skills and menu creations that appeal to seniors and knows how to modify recipes to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies as well as changing needs. A variety of nutritional choices allow residents to self-manage dietary habits an...

While losing weight is tough, for many of us, the real battle is keeping the weight off. Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, a dietitian and diabetes educator based in Washington, D.C., explains there is a growing body of evidence showing that when we focus on higher-quality nutrition, not only does our weight improve but also our health. Changing to a diet with more vegetables and fruits means you will take in fewer calories than you previously did, allowing weight loss to naturally take place. An improved diet results in better health. One of the biggest problems with “dieting” is that a person too often focuses on calorie content without regard to nutritional value.” Experts say this makes sticking to a calorie restrictive diet harder. Once we include nutritional foods in our day-to-day diet, it makes us feel fuller and even lets us eat more while taking in fewer calories. Another thing about a life-long nutritional diet filled with fruits and vegetables, plant-based proteins and whole fo...

As we embrace the golden years of our lives, keeping our minds sharp and spirits high is more important than ever. At senior living Kirkland , we've witnessed the amazing benefits that creative hobbies can bring to our residents. From boosting mental health to sparking joy, these activities can transform our days. Let's dive into some fun and creative hobbies that can brighten your day and maybe even stir up some wonderful memories! Painting and Drawing Have you ever picked up a paintbrush and let your imagination run wild? There's something truly magical about art—it allows us to express our emotions without uttering a single word. Whether you're painting a beautiful sunset or sketching a cherished memory, these activities can help you relax and focus. The best part? There’s no right or wrong way to create art. Just grab your brushes and let your creativity flow! Writing and Storytelling We all have stories to tell, don't we? Whether it's recounting a cherished...

Many families mistakenly think senior living and particularly assisted living is just a more luxurious nursing home. The fact is nursing homes are intended for people who are unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental conditions and require around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Residents may be bedridden or in wheelchairs and receive ongoing palliative and preventative long-term care. Assisted living is for older adults who are mostly independent but require help with what is known as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and include things like dressing, bathing and other personal care activities. In some cases, people move into an assisted living community knowing that while they do not now need assistance with such tasks, they may need help in the near future. Assisted living also makes sense for seniors who are looking for more companionship and love the security of knowing they are not alone. As many senior living communities such as MorningStar of Pasadena hav...

Most areas in the United States have seen summers getting hotter over the last several years. Several days in a row of extreme heat can especially take a toll on seniors. Experts say if you are an older adult and/or someone on medications and have chronic heart, lung or kidney problems, it can make it even harder for your body to handle higher temperatures. While hotter temperatures are difficult for all of us, studies find seniors do not adjust as well to heat and humidity as they did when they were younger. The National Institute on Aging says it is important for those at risk to take precautions and get relief quickly when you do feel overheated. Along with a slower response to temperature changes, prescription medication like high blood pressure and heart medications; diuretics and sedatives make it harder for the body to cool. In addition, many seniors may be on several medications that only compound the problem. Other issues interfering with seniors ability to handle the heat is ...

Have you ever thought about how you could make a positive impact on your community? Well, I've got some fantastic ideas for you to get involved and give back. Let's dive into some rewarding volunteer opportunities that you can explore as an older adult in senior living Kirkland . Share Your Wisdom You've lived a long and fulfilling life, and your experiences and insights are not just valuable, they're priceless. Consider volunteering at local schools or community centers to read to children, share your life stories, or provide mentorship. Your wisdom can truly inspire and educate the younger generation, showing them the true value of life's experiences. Community Garden If you have a green thumb and enjoy spending time outdoors, why not join a community garden? Senior Living Kirkland offers several community gardens where you can plant, nurture, and harvest fruits and vegetables. It's a fabulous way to stay active and contribute to local food initiatives. Anima...

Bird watching is a peaceful and enjoyable hobby that can be especially rewarding for seniors. It offers a wonderful way to connect with nature, stay active, and experience the beauty of the outdoors. Let's explore how this hobby can be both relaxing and beneficial for those in senior housing Kirkland . The Joy of Bird Watching Bird watching provides a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate the natural world. It can be as simple as watching birds from your window or as adventurous as visiting local parks and nature reserves. The variety of birds you can see, and the tranquility of the activity makes it a perfect pastime for seniors, offering the joy of discovering new bird species. Benefits of Bird Watching Engaging in bird watching offers numerous benefits for seniors: Mental Stimulation: Identifying different bird species and learning about their behaviors can keep the mind sharp and active. Physical Activity: Walking in parks or even just around the garden to spot birds h...