MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Most of us know, in order to lose weight, we need to cut carbohydrates and fats in our diet as well as reduce our daily intake of sugar. While that might sound really restrictive and boring, dietitians say there are still plenty of tasty choices we can enjoy eating to maintain or lose weight. Foods found in the produce aisle of the grocery store are some of the things that can be eaten almost without restraint, and will help with a person’s weight loss. Dieticians explain non-starchy vegetables are one of the foods you can eat a lot of and not worry about putting on weight. Starchy vegetables include potatoes, peas and corn and are higher in calories. Along with the many vitamins and minerals we get from veggies like broccoli, kale and mushrooms, we also get fiber, which can help keep blood sugar levels stable and reduce cravings for junk food. If you don’t like vegetables, there are many ways to make vegetables taste better such as spraying with olive oil and lightly grilling or servi...

Respiratory health plays a critical role in overall well-being, especially as the lungs naturally lose some efficiency with age. Yet, seniors can adopt several proactive strategies to maintain healthy lungs and reduce the risk of respiratory conditions. For older adults living in wellness-focused communities like senior living Kirkland , these habits often become part of daily routines, helping residents breathe easier and live more actively. Let’s explore the most effective ways seniors can support lung health and boost respiratory function, even with age-related changes. Ways to Enhance Lung Health Incorporate Regular Physical Activity Daily movement is essential for keeping the lungs strong. Activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and yoga improve lung capacity and strengthen the heart and circulation, which are closely tied to respiratory function. Sitting exercises and light stretching still provide meaningful benefits for those with limited mobility. In many communities, grou...

It’s no secret that staying mentally engaged is essential as we age. One increasingly popular way to boost cognitive health is through language learning. While puzzles, reading, and games are often recommended for seniors, learning a new language offers a deeper and more dynamic form of brain exercise. Language acquisition taps into multiple cognitive processes at once—memory, attention, reasoning, and creativity—offering a range of mental benefits. In settings such as senior housing Kirkland , many residents engage in language classes or online platforms designed specifically for older adults. These programs support cognitive health and provide opportunities for social interaction and personal enrichment. How Language Learning Enhances Brain Health Boosts Cognitive Flexibility Language learners develop the ability to switch between different ways of thinking—whether it’s understanding new grammar or recognizing cultural nuances. This kind of mental agility strengthens problem-solving ...

There are a number of entertaining activities that are good for older adults’ health, and dancing is certainly one of them. Studies show dancing regularly can help maintain strong bones, work the heart muscle, relieve stress; and is generally safe for all ages. It can improve posture and muscle strength as well as balance, coordination and gait, which all help reduce the risk of a fall. Another thing about dancing is it engages every part of the body from the hands to the head, torso, legs and feet. There are lots of low-impact aerobic dances to choose from including ballroom, salsa, jazz, tap and martial arts style of dance; or chair aerobics for those who are not as steady on their feet. Classes can be found at senior centers, community education classes, churches or schools. If you live in a senior living community , find out if they hold dances or classes; and if they don’t, try and start one. Dancing not only helps people stay fit but provides enjoyment, entertainment and sociali...

Rainy days can be the perfect excuse to spend meaningful time indoors with family. At senior living Kirkland , residents love the chance to create lasting memories with their grandchildren, regardless of the weather. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers visiting, here are some creative ways to keep everyone engaged and entertained on a rainy day. Dive Into Arts and Crafts A little creativity goes a long way, especially with children. You don’t need expensive supplies—gather paper, markers, and scissors, and you’re ready to go. Fall-themed crafts like leaf collages, greeting cards, or hand-painted rocks are always a hit. Residents at senior housing Kirkland often enjoy making simple crafts with their grandchildren that they can display proudly on shelves or walls. Tip: Try crafting bookmarks together using ribbons, stickers, and colorful paper. It’s a small project, but it’s something they can take home and use every day. Bake Together for a Tasty Reward There’s nothing quite like th...

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, ...

To recognize the value of the relationship between grandchildren and grandparents, “Grandparents Day” is celebrated on the Sunday after Labor Day. While not a public holiday, President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation in 1978 stating it should be observed each year. For kids, having more people involved in their lives other than their parents is a good thing. Many grandparents’ unconditional love brings with it acceptance, patience and unwavering support as they readily recognize the child’s accomplishments and provides a safe, trusted harbor. Several studies validate the love and emotional closeness grandparents provide can make a positive impact on a child’s healthy development. Moreover, as grandparents may be retired, they have more leisure time to spend with the grandkids. Research also shows that a close, involved relationship is good for grandparents too, and contributes to a healthier, happier and possibly even longer life. Grandparents’ relationship with grandkids can inc...