MorningStar Independent Living Blog

The Mayo Clinic explains our bodies constantly absorb and replace bone tissue. When a person has osteoporosis, their body is removing old bone but not keeping up with making new bone. Early warning signs of osteoporosis include bone fractures, lost height, curved back, sudden back pain and gastrointestinal problems. However, many people have no symptoms, and it isn’t until a bone fracture or a bone density test (measuring the proportion of minerals in the bones), do they learn they have osteoporosis. A step above osteoporosis is osteopenia, which affects approximately half of Americans over age 50. It is important to work with your doctor if your bone loss has progressed to osteoporosis as there are medications that can help build stronger bones. In addition, you can help increase bone strength with a healthy diet of foods high in calcium, vitamins D and K, and protein. Foods containing calcium include dairy and soy, fish and green leafy vegetables like kale. Additionally, many foods ...

Medical experts from the Harvard School of Medicine explain that even small steps can make a positive change in your wellness journey. Many of their recommendations can be done daily without much time or effort. The first tip is to start the morning with a full body stretch to help improve circulation and wake up the body. Before getting out of bed, flex your lower limbs several times. Then bend your knees and raise your legs. Flex and rotate each foot a couple of times. From a sitting position, turn your head from side to side a few times and rotate your shoulders. Extend your arms out and rotate your hands. To maintain your dental health, floss your teeth every day. Experts say the proper way to floss is to wrap the floss around each tooth and slide it up and down a couple of times against the tooth rather than using a sawing motion. Now do the tooth on the other side. Another easy healthy habit to get into is to drink a glass of water when you get up each morning, and then drink ...

The Alzheimer’s Association explains that a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia shouldn’t give up the activities they love. Rather they suggest the better option is to modify the activity to better fit their skill set and current ability. However, even in the early stages of the disease, many withdraw from the activities they used to enjoy but experts say it is important to help them stay engaged. A modification can be as simple as reducing the number of people the person socializes with at a time. Smaller groups are less intimidating and reduce confusion. Also, it helps to let the person’s other family members and friends know about the diagnosis. As the disease progresses, other changes will likely be in order. If you notice an activity that seems to make them restless or irritable, either modify so it brings them happiness or stop it altogether. For instance, while a person’s skills may decline, someone who plays the piano may still enjoy playing the simple ...

There comes a time in the lives of many senior citizens when they feel a need for a more carefree, comfortable retirement without all the responsibilities that come with home ownership. If you are looking for senior living, your next question may be what community is right for me. As some of your decisions will be based on personal needs, it is important to know senior living communities offer a range of options including assisted living and memory care. Independent living is designed for active seniors who love the idea of predictable budgeting, built-in companionship and restaurant-style dining as well as wellness programs and activities. Moreover, as a resident, if your health needs change and you require daily senior care, you are already familiar with all that senior living offers. Assisted living is tailored to those seniors who wish to receive the daily care services they need to maintain their independence. They too flourish with vibrant programs and a supportive social commun...

If you are an older adult who wants to start exercising again, you may not know how to begin. For one thing, you probably realize you are not as fit as you used to be, and are not up to the same degree of physical activity that you once did. And of course, before you begin any new form of exercise, you will need to check with your doctor to make sure you are fit enough, especially if you have osteoporosis, an injury, or balance issues. Once you get the go ahead from your healthcare provider, stretching is a good place to begin. In fact, studies show that as we grow older our flexibility decreases by up to 50 percent in some joints. Another good thing about stretching is many exercises are appropriate for any level of fitness including ones that can be done sitting in a chair. Stretching can help you maintain your flexibility and mobility as well as loosen up some of your stiffness in your back, neck and shoulder muscles. Another plus about stretching exercises is that most of the...

Not all fats are created equal, and understanding the types of fats in your diet can have a big impact on your health. For seniors in senior living Kirkland , making informed choices about fats can support heart health, energy levels, and overall well-being. Let’s break down the different types of fats and how to include the healthy ones in your meals. Why Fats Matter Fats play an essential role in your body, from providing energy to supporting brain function and absorbing vitamins. The key is choosing the right types of fats and keeping your portions balanced. The Four Types of Fats Saturated Fats Where They’re Found: Butter, red meat, cheese, and full-fat dairy products. Impact on Health: Too much saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. How to Manage It: Enjoy these in moderation by choosing leaner cuts of meat and low-fat dairy options. Unsaturated Fats Where They’re Found: Nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil. Impact on Health: Unsatu...

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you most likely understand the challenge of introducing changes into their day-to-day routine. One big change, which can be stressful for all involved, is when a family decides it is time to move a parent or another loved one into a senior living community offering memory care . A Place for Mom’s website warns families it can take a while for a loved one to adapt. They encourage the family to take an optimistic view about the move, and help the person focus on the positive aspects of the community, talking up the programs and activities, quality of care, and the social interactions. Moreover, rather than spending time second-guessing your decision, remember you carefully searched for the best place for your loved one and now you need to trust the experts in the community. A few of the tips to help your loved one’s transition is to fix up the suite much like their old home, adding family photos and other favo...

Research clearly shows that getting enough sleep each night is important to our good health and well-being. In fact, doctors say it is as vital to one’s health as regular exercise and eating a balanced diet, and the benefits extend into almost every aspect of our lives. While scientists are unable to directly link lack of sleep to weight gain, evidence suggests that it may interfere with our body’s ability to regulate food intake correctly. One study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America , a publisher of high-impact research reports, commentaries, perspectives, and reviews, found that sleep patterns do affect the hormones responsible for appetite. Getting enough sleep should also be an essential part of an athlete’s training regimen as adequate sleep helps to improve both physical and mental performance. A good night’s rest has been proven to refuel athletes and give them more intensity and energy as well as faster speed. Doctors re...

Time management isn’t just for busy professionals—it’s a skill that can help seniors create a more balanced, fulfilling daily routine. Whether you’re enjoying retirement in senior housing Kirkland or participating in community activities, learning to manage your time effectively allows you to focus on what truly matters. Why Time Management Is Important for Seniors With fewer structured commitments in retirement, time can sometimes feel unorganized or overwhelming. Managing your time well helps you: Feel Accomplished: Checking off tasks gives you a sense of purpose. Prioritize What You Love: Spend more time on activities that bring joy and less on things that drain energy. Reduce Stress: Knowing what’s on your plate helps prevent feeling rushed or forgetful. Tips for Managing Your Time Create a Daily Schedule Writing down your plan for the day helps you stay on track. Include time for meals, activities, and relaxation. Try setting aside specific time blocks for tasks, like morning w...

Physical activity isn’t just good for your body—it’s a powerful way to boost your mood, sharpen your mind, and reduce stress. For seniors in senior living Kirkland , staying active is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support mental well-being. Why Movement Matters for Mental Health When you move your body, your brain gets a workout too. Here’s how physical activity impacts mental health: Releases Feel-Good Chemicals: Exercise increases endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, all of which improves mood. Reduces Anxiety and Stress: Physical activity lowers cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer and more relaxed. Boosts Cognitive Function: Movement improves memory, focus, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood flow to the brain. Fights Depression: Regular exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression by encouraging positive changes in the brain. Easy Ways to Get Moving You don’t need an intense workout to experience the mental health benefits of exercise. H...

How many times have you eaten breakfast, and after an hour or two, you start to feel hungry? Many breakfast options involve foods such as cereals, breads and granola bars that are high in refined grains and sugar. To solve the problem, nutritionists say you should add protein to every meal including your breakfast. When you eat a breakfast with protein, you feel fuller and more satisfied for a longer period of time and less apt to reach for high-calorie snacks mid-day. Registered dietician, Lisa Jones, explains an adult’s daily intake of protein should be between 10% and 35% of the calories consumed. She adds, “For example, if your nutritional needs call for 2,000 calories daily, you should get 200 to 700 calories from protein, or 50 to 175 grams.” One suggestion for an easy-to-do, protein-rich breakfast is avocado and fried egg on a bagel or enriched whole-grain slice of toast. Omelets are also fairly easy and can be assembled with a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, spinach and ...

Staying connected to others is essential for emotional well-being, and it’s never too late to strengthen your social circle. For seniors in senior housing Kirkland , building and maintaining relationships can improve mental health, reduce stress, and bring more joy to daily life. Whether you’re making new friends or rekindling old bonds, there are plenty of ways to foster meaningful connections. Why Social Connections Matter Social connections don’t just make life more fun—they have real health benefits: Boosts Mental Health: Interacting with others can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. Supports Cognitive Function: Engaging conversations and activities help keep your mind sharp. Enhances Physical Health: Socially active seniors are more likely to stay physically active, too. Simple Ways to Build Connections Join Community Activities Participating in group events like book clubs, crafting sessions, or fitness classes creates natural opportunities to meet others. Volunteer Gi...

The statistics of older adults taking a fall each year are alarming, and consequences can impact the person’s independence, or in the worst case, be deadly. Experts say as we age, our bodies may start to feel less stable due to things like a loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility and slower reflexes. Poor balance and dizziness can also be a result of medical problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, poor vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels as well as medications. Another culprit interfering with balance is inner ear problems. The labyrinth is a part of the inner ear that controls balance and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause lots of problems including vertigo. The condition called Labyrinthitis generally is a result of other issues such as head injuries, viral or bacterial infections, and circulatory system conditions like strokes or low blood pressure. The National Institute on Aging says families and caregivers should be on the lookout for an older ...

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than warming up with a plate of comfort food. But comfort doesn’t have to mean unhealthy! For residents in senior living Kirkland , there are plenty of delicious, nourishing options that bring the cozy vibes without sacrificing nutrition. Why Comfort Foods Are So Appealing Comfort foods are more than just meals—they’re often tied to cherished memories and a sense of warmth in senior living . A hearty stew or freshly baked casserole can evoke feelings of home and family while providing the fuel your body needs to stay energized in winter. Healthy Comfort Food Ideas Hearty Vegetable Soup Why It’s Great: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, vegetable soup is a filling and healthy option. How to Make It: Combine your favorite seasonal vegetables (like carrots, kale, and sweet potatoes) with a flavorful broth. Add spices like thyme or rosemary for a cozy twist. Turkey and Spinach Casserole Why It’s Great: A lean protein like turkey...

Residents of the MorningStar Senior Living communities include veterans from all branches of the military and we are honored to serve them. As a MorningStar team member eloquently said, “Seniors speak powerfully to the fact that freedom comes at a cost. It requires that you choose to do the right thing which almost always includes sacrifice. Whether it’s time, money or comfort, those who came before us chose to sacrifice to build a better society.” When we meet a potential resident who is a veteran or a surviving spouse of a vet, and in need of assisted living ; we are pleased to direct them to a “Financial Concierge.” These financial services experts have the knowledge to ease and quicken the application process for “Aid & Attendance,” which is a benefit offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Aid & Attendance benefits are a tax-free pension paid directly to a qualified veteran or their spouse in the form of monthly payments, which is subject to change annuall...

Like other parts of our bodies, the digestive system slows down as we age and can cause problems. However, like other parts of our bodies, there are things we can do to improve its health including watching our diet and exercising. The muscles that move food through the digestive system become weaker with age causing food to move slower through the body resulting in problems like constipation, bloating and discomfort. Another issue is bacteria levels in the gut change with age. The body does not make as many good bacteria, which in turn, increases bad bacteria. Along with the digestive system slowing, our closely related immune system also begins slowing. As an older person, you may develop sensitivity and intolerances to certain foods that can cause bloating and distention of the abdomen due to a buildup of excessive gas. Eating too fast, which increases your chances of swallowing too much air with each bite or consuming veggies like broccoli and cabbage, beans and other foods slow to...

Radicchio, with its vibrant purple leaves and slightly bitter flavor, is more than just a pretty addition to your salad—it’s a powerhouse of digestive health benefits. For residents in senior housing Kirkland , adding radicchio to meals is a simple and delicious way to support your gut and overall wellness. What Is Radicchio? Radicchio is a leafy vegetable from the chicory family, often used in Mediterranean cooking. Its slightly bitter taste mellows when cooked, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes. But radicchio isn’t just versatile—it’s also packed with nutrients that promote healthy digestion. How Radicchio Benefits Digestion High in Fiber Fiber is essential for digestive health, and radicchio is a great source. It helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation, keeping your digestive system running smoothly. Rich in Prebiotics Radicchio contains compounds that feed the good bacteria in your gut, known as prebiotics. A balanced gut microbiome supports immunity and r...

While many hospital stays are planned, older adults are more likely to require an unexpected trip to the hospital. When you have the luxury of time, it is easy to get prepared with the necessary information a parent needs when admitted to the hospital. It can be a different story if the trip is sudden. Medical experts say to ensure a loved one gets the proper care, it is important to see to it that the hospital has a complete medical history. Notes and documents can be completed and gathered now then updated as health changes occur. For starters, the hospital will want a “next of kin” contact for the patient so decide beforehand who that will be. Now go through the list of medications your parents take and make sure they are all together in one location. In the event of a medical emergency, you will be able to bring all their medications with you to ensure the hospital knows the most up-to-date medications and dosages. Another thing to gather information on regards your parents’ pre-...

Did you know that your family history could impact your chances of developing glaucoma? This “silent thief of sight” can cause gradual vision loss, often without symptoms in the early stages. For residents in senior housing Kirkland , understanding the role genetics plays in glaucoma risk is a crucial step toward prevention and maintaining eye health. What Is Glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to increased pressure in the eye. If untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. While anyone can develop glaucoma, some people are at a higher risk, and genetics often play a key role. How Genetics Influence Glaucoma Risk If you have a close relative with glaucoma, your chances of developing the condition increase significantly. Here’s why: Inherited Traits Certain genes associated with glaucoma can be passed down through families. For example, mutations in the MYOC gene are linked to higher eye pressure, a key risk factor for glaucom...

Many of us find ourselves wondering if our brain is working as efficiently as it did when we were younger. Research shows most likely it is not. Various studies suggest memory problems often “reflect a slower processing speed and poor encoding and retrieval of new memories as a result of diminished attention.” However, while normal aging causes seniors to process new information slower; judgement and reasoning powers remain largely intact. Researchers say in the same way we cannot jump as high or run as fast as we did when we were children; our thinking process also begins to slow down. By the time we are in our 50s or 60s, this can interfere with remembering things, solving problems or learning new information. Structural changes in the brain regions involved in memory processing such as the hippocampus and the frontal lobes all experience anatomical and neurochemical changes as we age. Concentration can be affected by the natural loss of receptors and neurons. Outside factors such as...

As it turns out, many seniors are quite happy with their decision to move into an independent or assisted living community. In part, that may be since many of today’s senior communities are loaded with numerous amenities and activities. As a resident, you are provided with a lifestyle of comfort and community as well as a sense of safety and security. Here are some of the many benefits: When older adults move out of their family home into a senior community, they find themselves freed from lots of responsibilities. Owning a home requires routine care and maintenance such as yard work and other housekeeping chores. Seniors often live alone and experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. Also, as people age, many are reluctant to drive, which means they end up spending a lot of time at home by themselves. This is something that is not a problem in senior communities. While activities are optional, there is generally something of interest for everyone. For those who do not dr...

A book club is more than just a gathering to discuss stories—it’s an opportunity to connect, spark conversation, and share ideas. For seniors, it’s also a great way to stay mentally active and socially engaged. Whether you’re in senior living Kirkland or hosting one at home, creating a book club that’s fun and inclusive is easier than you think. Why Book Clubs Are Perfect for Seniors Books have a way of bringing people together. A book club gives seniors in senior living a reason to connect regularly while exploring stories that inspire and entertain. Benefits include: Social Interaction: Regular meetings help combat isolation by fostering friendships and conversations. Mental Stimulation: Discussing themes, characters, and plots keeps the brain sharp and engaged. Shared Experiences: Reading the same book creates a common ground for meaningful discussions. Steps to Start Your Book Club Here’s how to set up a book club that’s enjoyable and easy to manage: Form the Group Keep it sma...