Understanding Glaucoma: A Senior’s Guide to Eye Health

As we step into our golden years, eye health becomes a crucial aspect of our overall well-being. In the serene settings of senior living Centennial, retirement communities Centennial, and retirement home Centennial, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of common eye conditions, such as glaucoma, that predominantly affect seniors. Glaucoma is often referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’ and understanding it is the first step in effective management and prevention.

What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, crucial for good vision, and is often linked to an increase in pressure inside the eye. This condition can lead to progressive vision loss and, ultimately, blindness if not diagnosed and treated early.

Recognizing the Signs: One of the challenging aspects of glaucoma is its lack of early symptoms. Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for seniors in retirement communities Centennial, as early detection can prevent significant vision loss. Symptoms can include blurred vision, seeing halos around lights, reduced peripheral vision, and, in advanced stages, noticeable vision loss.

Risk Factors: Certain factors can increase the risk of developing glaucoma, including age (over 60), a family history of the condition, severe myopia, and conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Residents in retirement home Centennial should be particularly vigilant about regular check-ups if they fall into these risk categories.

Prevention and Management: While glaucoma cannot be prevented, its progression can be slowed significantly with early detection and proper treatment. This typically includes prescription eye drops or, in some cases, surgery to reduce intraocular pressure. Seniors residing in senior living Centennial facilities should adhere to prescribed treatment plans and regularly consult with eye care professionals.

Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to eye health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, and protecting eyes from excessive UV light are practical steps that seniors can take.

Utilizing Available Resources: Many retirement communities Centennial offer access to healthcare services, including regular health screenings and educational sessions on conditions like glaucoma. Take advantage of these resources to stay informed and proactive about your eye health.

In conclusion, understanding glaucoma is an essential part of senior eye care. For residents in senior living Centennial, retirement communities Centennial, and retirement home Centennial, regular eye exams and a proactive approach to eye health can make a significant difference in maintaining vision and quality of life in the golden years. Remember, early detection is key, so prioritize those eye appointments and take care of your vision as you enjoy your retirement.

Managing Medications: A Senior’s Winter Health Checklist

For seniors, especially those residing in senior living Centennial communities and independent living Centennial facilities, managing medications is critical to maintaining health, particularly during the winter months. Winter brings its health challenges, and staying on top of medication management is crucial. Here’s a checklist to help seniors manage their medications effectively and stay healthy during the colder season.

1. Regular Medication Review:

Start with a thorough review of all your medications. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Ensure you understand what each medication is for and how it should be taken. In senior living Centennial communities, healthcare professionals can assist with these reviews.

2. Stay Updated with Vaccinations:

Winter is flu season, and seniors are particularly vulnerable. Ensure you are up to date with your flu shot and any other vaccinations recommended by your healthcare provider. In independent living Centennial communities, flu shots are often administered on-site for convenience.

3. Organize Your Medications:

Use a pill organizer to keep track of your medications. This is especially helpful if you take multiple medications at different times of the day. It reduces the risk of missing doses or taking the wrong medicine.

4. Be Aware of Cold Medication Interactions:

If you catch a cold and need to take over-the-counter cold medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Some cold medications can interact with prescription drugs, leading to adverse effects.

5. Maintain a Medication List:

Keep an updated list of all your medications, including dosages and scheduling. Carry this list with you to all doctor appointments and in case of emergencies. In senior living Centennial facilities, staff can help maintain and update this list.

6. Monitor for Side Effects:

Pay attention to how you feel. Some medications can have side effects that are more pronounced in cold weather, such as increased dizziness or drowsiness. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

7. Ensure Adequate Supply:

During winter, bad weather can sometimes make it difficult to get to the pharmacy. Make sure you have enough medication to last through potential winter storms. Many independent living Centennial facilities offer assistance with medication refills and deliveries.

8. Stay Hydrated and Nourished:

Some medications can be affected by your diet and hydration levels. Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to ensure your medications work as intended.

Managing medications effectively is key to a senior’s health, especially during winter. By following these tips, residents in senior living Centennial and independent living Centennial can ensure they’re taking their medications safely and effectively, contributing to a healthier winter season. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with healthcare professionals for guidance.

Why You Should Consider MorningStar for Senior Living in Fort Collins

For seniors who are overwhelmed by the costs of home ownership, or the endless planning involved in finding fun and meaningful activities outside of the home, active senior living is available in Fort Collins. Newly designed, MorningStar’s luxury senior housing offers seniors a community of like-minded neighbors in a close-knit setting that encourages lasting friendships and regular socialization. 

Uniquely situated in the heart of historic Old Town, MorningStar Senior Apartments Fort Collins offers seniors a choice of 90 independent living suites and 45 assisted living suites. MorningStar at Old Town seamlessly blends the signature architecture of Old Town with the historic feel of College Avenue in Fort Collins. Our community is situated on top of mixed-use urban development, of which the likes are rarely seen outside of cities like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. This makes MorningStar’s senior housing a prime location for seniors who like to explore their city and take advantage of a walkable community. 

Love the sound of built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, and the security that comes from residing in an independent senior living community? MorningStar Senior Living Fort Collins takes care of the worry and stress of aging and allows you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new hobby, or spending time with friends and loved ones relaxing in the beautiful city, there’s a place for you at MorningStar’s senior apartment homes in Fort Collins. You’ll want to spend your retirement at the pool or participating in wine tastings and movie viewing. Don’t forget to bring the family!

Find the Best Senior Living Fort Collins Has to Offer

We have an unmatched commitment to the well-being of our assisted living residents at MorningStar at Old Town. We offer round-the-clock support for their activities of daily living, empowering them to maintain their independence. With compassion, our care managers provide medication management and access to licensed nurses. Our retirement communities are thoughtfully crafted with luxury amenities, hospitality services, and wellness programs that nurture new interests, hobbies, and individual needs.

Contact us today at (970) 670-3871 To learn more about MorningStar at Old Town and the outstanding care practices within our senior living and memory care communities. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, mission, and what sets us apart from other senior housing in Fort Collins.

Celebrate Life by Practicing Gratitude Everyday

While studies find feeling grateful can make us happier and less anxious; like every skill, it does take some practice. A recent article in CNN explains gratitude should not be saved for special occasions, but like love, should be practiced or expressed regularly. With a little effort, you should be able to find something to be grateful for every day.  

Experts share four ways to help you practice gratitude. The first is to create a gratitude album on your phone by taking a picture each day of things that bring you joy like a meaningful text, beautiful scenery, fun events on your calendar and pics of loved ones. Don’t worry about your photography skill. Now instead of scrolling through social media, use some of that time to look through your own gratitude album and appreciate the good things in your life. 

Another gratitude practice is to take the time to breathe. Mindful breathing techniques can help relieve tension and reduce stress, and only take a few minutes. When doing, remember to be thankful for your breathing, which is a life-sustaining force. Combine breathing with feelings of gratitude and patience as you strive to feel relaxed and calm. The Internet offers several methods for practicing breathing techniques.

Expressing gratitude to someone each day by thanking them for their support and/or love are other ways to feel gratitude. Studies show it helps to build a better relationship between two people who routinely express or receive gratitude from their partner.     

Lastly experts say end your day by feeling grateful. One practice is to think of three things you are grateful for and write them down in a notebook or piece of paper. They do not have to be big “things” but just something that makes you feel happy. When you wake in the morning, read over your three things and take a few moments to reflect on them. 

MorningStar of Berkeley is a senior living community with 88 assisted living suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations designed to provide comfort, senior care services, amenities and well-being. For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers 25 all-inclusive memory care suites. Visit our website for more information and ask about our Move-in Specials. We open to residents in the fall of 2024.

Source: 

cnn.com/2023/03/11/health/daily-gratitude-practices-wellness/index.html#:~:text=Every%20day%2C%20tell%20someone%20—%20anyone,happiness%20for%20both%20of%20you. 

5 Activities to Try With Your Loved Ones in Senior Living Communities This New Year

If you’re visiting a loved one in senior living in Las Vegas, there are so many special ways to enjoy New Year’s and make some meaningful memories while you do it. After all, January is perfect for spending quality time with those you love and looking toward the future. 

When you visit your loved ones in senior living communities, try these five fun activities to kick off the new year:

1. Try Your Hand at Your Favorite Board Games

Board games are a crowd favorite for any gathering or celebration. Why not welcome a new year with your loved one in senior living by enjoying some friendly competition with your all-time favorite board games? Bring out some timeless classics like Scrabble, Trouble, or Monopoly. You are both sure to have a good time!

2. Enjoy Tasty Treats

Delicious food can accompany any celebration! The new year is a great time to enjoy tasty treats with your loved ones.

When you visit your loved one in senior living, make sure to bring along seasonal favorites you both love. You may even want to try mocktails! Mocktails have all the fun of cocktails without any alcohol.and are much cheaper to make than their alcoholic counterparts.

3. Put On a Fashion Show

Imagine the quintessential attire for the countdown to 2024. You’re probably picturing sparkles, sparkles, and even more sparkles! 

Half the fun of celebrating this special time is dressing up to truly get into the spirit of the holiday. Encourage your loved ones in senior living in Las Vegas to dress in their most fabulous outfits. 

4. Play Some Music and Dance the Night Away

No celebration would be complete without dancing. Take the opportunity to play all of the hits from years past, including some of your loved one’s favorite songs. 

This will get them in a celebratory mood and add plenty of upbeat energy to the atmosphere of your gathering. You could even ask them to teach you some of the popular dances of their day!

5. Look Back on Your Favorite Memories Together

As the year comes to a close, you and your loved one will probably be feeling sentimental about days gone by. Take some time to reminisce with one another as you enjoy great food, drinks, and music. Focus on happy memories and share how much you’ve enjoyed spending time together over the years!

Celebrate the Season in Senior Living in Las Vegas

No matter how you celebrate, make sure this New Year’s is a memorable one. With so many amenities to enjoy and celebration ideas to consider in senior living, you and your loved ones are well on your way to having an excellent 2024.

Celebrating Halloween: Fun and Safe Ideas for Seniors and Grandkids

Halloween isn’t just for the young; it’s a festive time that can be enjoyed by all ages. For residents of senior living centennial communities and those in independent living centennial facilities, the holiday offers a unique opportunity to bond with their grandchildren. With the mix of spooky tales, candy, and laughter, Halloween can be tailored to be both fun and safe for seniors and their young visitors. Here are some delightful ideas to ensure a memorable All Hallows’ Eve:

1. Pumpkin Decorating: Carving might be challenging for little hands and seniors alike, so why not opt for pumpkin painting? Gather paints, brushes, and let creativity flow. This activity is perfect for an afternoon in independent living centennial patios or community rooms.

2. Storytelling Sessions: Seniors have a wealth of stories from their past. Sharing slightly spooky (but not too scary) tales from their younger days can be a unique way to spend Halloween evening. The ambiance of a senior living centennial lounge, with dimmed lights and cozy corners, sets the perfect mood.

3. Costume Parades: Who says dressing up is only for kids? Seniors can join in the fun, donning costumes or even just festive hats. Organize a small parade within the community, letting seniors and grandkids show off their outfits.

4. DIY Craft Projects: From making Halloween masks to constructing paper lanterns, there are plenty of crafts suitable for all ages. These crafts not only provide entertainment but also beautiful souvenirs for the grandkids to take home.

5. Safe Trick-or-Treating: Within the confines of senior living centennial communities, organize a trick-or-treating route. Seniors can distribute candies, and kids can revel in the fun, all in a controlled and safe environment.

6. Halloween Movie Marathon: Select a few age-appropriate Halloween classics and host a movie marathon. With popcorn in hand, seniors and grandkids can enjoy timeless tales that celebrate the essence of the holiday.

7. Baking Together: The aroma of baked goods wafting through an independent living centennial kitchen can be irresistibly inviting. Seniors and grandkids can team up to make Halloween cookies, cupcakes, or even pumpkin pie. It’s a tasty way to bond!

8. Create a Halloween Playlist: Music is a universal joy. Compile a list of Halloween-themed songs and have a mini dance party. It’s a fantastic way for seniors to introduce classics to the young ones and for grandkids to share recent hits.

Conclusion:

Halloween in senior living centennial communities can be a blend of traditions, fun, and the joy of intergenerational bonding. By adopting these ideas, seniors ensure not just their enjoyment but also create cherished memories for their grandkids. After all, Halloween is about celebrating the spirit of togetherness, bridging the age gap with laughter, stories, and the shared joy of a festivity that knows no age.

Socialization & Staying Active Is Good for Seniors’ Brain Health

More and more research shows maintaining strong social bonds as we age benefits our physical and mental health. Just as following a good diet and not smoking is important to healthy aging, so is staying socially engaged and active. For too many seniors, retirement and growing older means a diminishing social circle, isolation and loneliness. This can bring on problems such as depression and anxiety and negatively impact our health.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains participating in hobbies and other social activities may lower a senior’s risk for developing several common health conditions. These include dementia, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer; and may contribute to a longer lifespan.

Studies of seniors who engage in purposeful or entertaining activities state they feel more positive about their lives. In addition, seniors who report they are happy are better able to cope with life’s problems. The NIA says positive emotions, optimism, physical and mental health, and a sense of purpose are all associated with resilience.

Retirement communities offer a great setting for living your best life. A Place for Mom, one of the largest senior living online referral companies, lists the many advantages senior living provides including an environment catering to the many diverse needs of residents. Maintenance-free living, meaningful programs and activities, and healthy meals ensure carefree retirement years. Best of all, senior living communities’ built-in companionship eliminates the need to travel to activities or make plans.

At MorningStar at The Canyons, we offer a style of independent living and assisted living Las Vegas seniors will appreciate. Our new community is built from the ground up to accommodate residents and ensure a relaxing lifestyle. We open in summer of 2024 and encourage you to visit our website for contact information or visit our onsite Information Center. Please ask about exclusive savings for early depositors and to reserve your select suite for exceptional senior living in Las Vegas.

Source:nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy-you-age#:~:text=Connect%20with%20family%20and%20friends,restaurants%20with%20your%20loved%20ones.

Exciting New Senior Living Berkeley Families Should Know More About

When the time comes for assisted living or memory care, families want the best for mom or dad or another loved one. You are probably looking for an assisted living community that offers all of the supportive services, programs, amenities and comforts to enhance residents’ quality of life. The new six-story, 84,828-square-foot MorningStar of Berkeley senior living community is designed to do all that and more.

MorningStar’s Founder/CEO explains how, “Enhancing quality senior living options is a pressing need in California, now more than ever.” He adds delivering best-in-class senior housing Berkeley families can trust will “help to ensure residents have a lifestyle with convenient amenities, resources and cutting-edge technologies that support wellness.”  

Our 88 contemporary apartments for assisted living are available in a choice of spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom suites equipped with handicap accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. To address needs, each resident will receive a thorough evaluation with our Wellness Director to create a Personalized Care Plan. Senior care services include 24/7 care managers as well as medication management, access to licensed nurses and other third-party health care providers. Incorporating MorningStar’s Whole Health Standards, our community places a strong emphasis on safety, hospitality and comfort.

Our décor features an earthy palette of brick, plaster and wood with a light-filled interior and private outdoor gardens and terraces that integrate residents’ activities and dining areas. A roof deck terrace overlooks the bay and surrounding area, and underground parking is convenient for residents and visitors alike. 

Our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides 25 inclusive memory care suites with the supportive services needed to care for our most tender residents. MorningStar’s memory care specialists complete thorough training including our signature program, Lavender Sky. 

Since our inception in 2003, MorningStar’s unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” has set us apart from other senior living communities. Contact us to learn about exclusive savings for early depositors and availability to senior living Berkeley families can count on. MorningStar of Berkeley is located at the corner of Dwight Way and Milvia Street and opens to residents in the Fall of 2024.