MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Feeling safe and secure at home is essential, especially for seniors living alone. With a few practical steps and smart habits, you can make your space more secure while maintaining independence. Whether you’re in senior housing Kirkland or your own private residence, these home security tips will help create a safe and comfortable living environment. Assess Your Home’s Security A secure home starts with identifying potential vulnerabilities. Take a walk around your property and check: Locks: Are all doors and windows equipped with sturdy, functioning locks? Lighting: Is the exterior well-lit to deter unwanted visitors? Motion-sensor lights are especially helpful. Entry Points: Ensure garage doors, basement windows, and sliding glass doors are properly secured. Simple Upgrades for Better Security These easy adjustments can make a big difference in keeping your home safe: Reinforce Doors and Windows Install deadbolts on exterior doors and security bars on ground-floor windows. Consi...

It’s never too late to learn something new, and for seniors, picking up a new language can be one of the most rewarding challenges. Beyond the fun of exploring new words and phrases, learning a language stimulates the brain, opens up cultural experiences, and even helps forge new social connections. For residents in senior living Kirkland , diving into a new language can be a delightful way to stay engaged and expand horizons. Why Learn a New Language as a Senior? While it might seem daunting, seniors are uniquely suited to language learning. Life experience often brings patience, perspective, and better problem-solving skills—key assets in mastering a new tongue. Benefits include: Boosting Cognitive Health: Language learning strengthens memory, improves focus, and may even delay cognitive decline. Increasing Social Interaction: Joining a language class or group is a fantastic way to meet new people and bond over shared goals. Enhancing Travel Experiences: Whether it’s brushing up on F...

While it is true that we are all living longer, there are some steps you can take to help make those years healthier than ever. The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors incorporate the following habits into their daily lives: eat a balanced diet; keep your mind and body active; do not smoke; get regular checkups; and practice safety habits to avoid accidents and prevent falls. The Family Doctor website also offers some commonsense advice on how even small changes in your lifestyle can improve your health even if you are already a senior. Their primary recommendation is to add physical activity to your daily life and make changes to your diet. By increasing your daily physical activity, it will help improve the strength of your bones and muscles in senior living . In addition, we know that stronger muscles can help to prevent falls, and if you do experience a fall, those stronger bones are less apt to break. By daily exercising, you can also help improve many chronic...

Imagine being freed up from the many chores homeownership requires and having the time to pursue your various interests and hobbies, to travel, or spend more time with family and friends. Senior living communities like MorningStar of Pasadena can provide just that and more as we offer a wide array of services including housekeeping, tasty meals and other luxury amenities. Our maintenance crew handles all repairs both inside and out as well as routine chores like the care of our beautiful grounds. This means as a resident, you will not be faced with unexpected maintenance bills, and instead enjoy the security of predictable budgeting. Assisted living residents also receive the personalized care they need for the ADLs (activities of daily living) to enable them to live life as independently as possible. Medication management services help seniors keep on track with their prescription drug usage. Transportation services to and from doctor visits and routine health screenings make it eas...

Beets may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to fitness, but their bright red juice is becoming a favorite among athletes and health-conscious seniors. Packed with natural nitrates and essential nutrients, beet juice has earned its reputation as a “superfood” for boosting stamina and supporting physical endurance. For seniors in senior housing Kirkland , adding beet juice to your routine is a simple way to feel more energized and active. The Science Behind Beet Juice Beet juice is rich in nitrates, which convert to nitric oxide in your body. This process relaxes and widens blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. The result? You feel more capable during physical activities, whether it’s a brisk walk or a morning yoga session. Benefits of Beet Juice for Seniors Improved Endurance Enhanced oxygen delivery means you can exercise longer and feel less fatigued. Seniors in senior housing often notice they have more stamina for everyday tasks like cl...

Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a good book, and having a cozy indoor reading nook makes it even better. For seniors, a well-designed space for reading can become a personal retreat—offering comfort, relaxation, and an escape from chilly days. Whether you live in senior living Kirkland or your own home, creating a warm, inviting nook is simple and rewarding. Why a Reading Nook? A dedicated space for reading encourages relaxation and focus. It’s a spot to unwind, dive into your favorite stories, or explore new worlds without distractions. Plus, it can add a personal, comforting touch to your living space. Choosing the Perfect Spot in Senior Housing Kirkland The first step in creating your reading nook is deciding where to set it up. Look for: Natural Light: A corner near a window is ideal for daytime reading. Sunlight creates a cheerful ambiance and reduces eye strain. Quiet and Comfort: Select a spot away from busy areas to minimize noise and interruptions. Small Spaces Wo...

If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Pasadena, CA’s MorningStar community may be your answer. Along with beautiful surroundings, we provide an extensive range of amenities, wellness programs, care services and more. When a loved one needs more care than they can get in their own home, it may be time to start thinking about a move to assisted living . If your family is new to the concept of senior living and all it means, please know that MorningStar will work with you every step of the way to help you make informed decisions, and make the eventual move-in process easier. To start with, we understand that for your parent or elderly relative, the move is a major lifestyle transition, which is why we approach each move-in with great sensitivity. One way we do this is to try and nurture a relationship from the start that reinforces the positive aspects of community life and tries to help the person envision the many possibilities of a new adventure. Once your family puts...

As the population ages, 55+ independent living communities have become a popular option for seniors around the country. The appeal includes making their lives easier by moving into a maintenance free apartment that meets their needs without giving up their independence. Today’s communities’ offers older adults security and safety as well as peace of mind knowing others are always around. Independent living Pasadena is a place where similarly aged people in a similar time of life comfortably live among one another. Moreover, such communities solve a growing problem reported by many seniors, that of loneliness. As we grow older our social circle gets smaller as many older adults have retired from jobs that created opportunities for day-to-day contact with acquaintances and business associates. In addition, some seniors no longer feel comfortable driving, which in turn, can limit their ability to socialize. Study after study has shown that isolation becomes a bigger problem as we a...

Secret Santa gift exchanges are a holiday tradition that bring fun and excitement to the season. For seniors, they’re also a chance to connect with friends, share laughter, and spread joy. Whether you’re organizing one in senior housing Kirkland or gathering with family, a little planning can ensure everyone has a wonderful time. Why Secret Santa? Secret Santa exchanges are perfect for seniors because they’re simple, inclusive, and filled with surprises. The focus is on thoughtfulness rather than extravagant spending, making it easy for everyone to participate. Plus, the element of secrecy adds a playful twist to the holidays. Steps to Organize a Senior-Friendly Secret Santa Set Clear Guidelines Decide on a price range for gifts to keep things fair and affordable. A range of $10–$20 works well. Establish rules about handmade gifts, baked goods, or store-bought items to give participants options. Draw Names with Ease Use a simple draw system with slips of paper, or try an online name-d...

Art has a unique way of connecting us to our emotions, memories, and even each other. For seniors, creative workshops aren’t just a pastime—they’re a way to explore new passions, stay engaged, and create something meaningful.Many senior living Kirkland communities now offer a variety of art-focused activities, bringing residents together for enriching and joyful experiences. Why Creativity Matters in Senior Living Engaging in art provides more than just a finished product to admire. It’s about the journey of creating and the benefits that come with it: Cognitive Stimulation: Painting, pottery, or crafting encourages problem-solving and sharpens motor skills. Stress Relief: Art can be calming, offering a soothing escape from daily worries. Building Connections: Group workshops foster social interaction, helping residents bond over shared interests. Workshops Tailored for Seniors Creative workshops in senior housing Kirkland are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that reside...

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans, and every year more than a million people are diagnosed with the disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) reports in 2021, 38.4 million Americans, or 11.6% of the population, had diabetes. Of that number 2 million had type 1 diabetes, which includes more than 300,000 children and adolescents. Seniors aged 65 years and older make up a large percentage of Americans with the disease at 29.2% or 16.5 million seniors (diagnosed and undiagnosed). Diabetes can be deadly and was the 8th leading cause of death in 2021. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of vision problems, heart attacks, nerve damage and stroke. In 2022, the CDC estimated the cost of diabetes was $412.9 billion. Prediabetes is another huge problem and numbers from 2021 report 97.6 million Americans aged 18 and older are affected. It is a chronic condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabe...

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 seniors new to Medicare have questions about the scope of coverage under the program. Experts explain traditional Medicare covers most health care needs including hospital care, doctor visits and lab tests. However, some services and medical devices are not covered. While Medicare covers treatment and doctor visits regarding medical problems in the ears; many seniors are surprised to learn it does not cover hearing aids. In 2017 a bill was passed that allows hearing aids to be sold over-the-counter without a prescription for people with mild to moderate hearing loss; greatly reducing the cost. Eye exams, glasses and contact lenses are also not covered under traditional Medicare. Medicare does cover things like cataract surgery and other medical conditions of the eye. If you are concerned about the cost of glasses and exams, vision insurance is available. The same goes for most dental care, and there are additional plans out there to help cover the cost of dental work. If you trave...

As the population ages, 55+ independent living communities have become a popular option for seniors around the country. The appeal includes making their lives easier by moving into a maintenance free apartment that meets their needs without giving up their independence. Today’s communities offer older adults security and safety as well as peace of mind knowing others are always around. Independent living communities are a place where similarly aged people in a similar time of life comfortably live among one another. Moreover, such communities solve a growing problem reported by many seniors, that of loneliness. As we grow older our social circle gets smaller as many older adults have retired from jobs that created opportunities for day-to-day contact with acquaintances and business associates. In addition, some seniors no longer feel comfortable driving, which in turn, can limit their ability to socialize. Study after study has shown that isolation becomes a bigger problem as w...

The National Institute of Health (NIH) reports if you are lucky enough to live a long life, along the way, you will most likely develop cataracts. Most Americans 80 years and older either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them. However, while cataracts are the most common age-related eye condition, they are also the leading cause of preventable blindness. So how do you know if you have cataracts or if it is time for surgery? Ophthalmologists explain the most accurate way to keep track of your eye health is to get regular eye exams; but there are some signs you can look out for on your own. One of the top changes you may notice is more difficulty driving at night. Cataracts make it much harder to see in the dark. Reading may also become difficult as you find yourself needing brighter and brighter light to focus on the page. Other symptoms can include seeing everything through a slightly tinted yellow or brown hue; or experiencing halos around light sources such as headlights ...

Moving can be exhausting and many of us have mixed feelings about the change – both looking forward to a new adventure and sad to leave our old life behind. Now imagine what your parents may be feeling as they leave a familiar home for an assisted living community. The change can be even more difficult if they are going into memory care. Experts say there are things family members can do to help ease the transition and make it a more positive experience. First, involve your loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible. Discuss the various benefits of each community regarding suites, amenities, food service and the helpfulness of the staff and administrators. Also, read online reviews from other families and residents; and take advantage of in-person tours. Once the decision is made on a particular community, now help mom or dad decide on what to bring to their new space, keeping in mind it is probably smaller than their current home. Consider an item based on its practi...

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander. The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home. Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home. Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering. Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe. It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parents or another loved one. Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times. Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the...

As we age, many seniors discover new bruises on their body but have no memory of how they got there. The Medical News Today (MNT) explains this may be the result of the skin thinning and blood vessels weakening and/or that some people are just more prone to bruising. It can also run in families. Being a frequent, extreme bruiser includes having many bruises without remembering their cause; regularly developing bruises that take many weeks to heal and bleeding for longer than 10 minutes following an injury. Excessive bruising and bleeding can be from medications, many of which seniors routinely take. These include drugs like warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and aspirin. Doctors say even certain herbal remedies such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, large quantities of garlic, ginger, and willow bark can increase the risk of bleeding or cause a change to blood vessels. The same is true for drugs like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids of which one example is pred...

We have all had the experience of sitting in the waiting room of a doctor’s office with a clipboard or tablet loaded with forms ready to be filled out. You may wonder why as you have already filled out similar forms at your other healthcare providers, and maybe even at this office. Experts say it is good to remember there are several reasons why you are being asked for your medical history again. To start with, your health may have changed. Additionally, not all doctor offices have access to the same digital information; or it may not have been updated. Also, a specialist may be looking for different information not typically collected by your primary care physician. Remember your refusal to answer questions could make it harder for your doctor to see the full picture of your problem; or at the very least make you look uncooperative. Dr. Robert Shmerling, a rheumatologist and senior faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing, agrees you are not obligated to fill out your medical histo...

Along with assisted living, MorningStar at River Oaks offers individualized, specialized care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our holistic approach to memory care is designed to affirm the value of the person and to find ways to celebrate the smallest successes. Our Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to meet the needs of residents throughout the various stages of the disease. The expansive area houses 27 suites and is intended to encourage residents to safely explore their surroundings. Memory care residents also enjoy the outdoors on the terrace. Normally, mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together. Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating. In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abil...