The Impact of Social Connections on Senior Health

Staying connected is so important, especially as we age. A strong social network can make a huge difference in our overall health and happiness. Let’s chat about how social connections benefit our well-being and how we can nurture these relationships in senior living Scottsdale.

Boosting Mental Health

Social interactions play a crucial role in keeping our minds sharp and spirits high. Engaging with friends, family, and neighbors can help reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. Regular social activities stimulate the mind, helping us stay mentally active and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

Tips for Staying Connected

• Join Clubs and Groups: Joining a group, whether it’s a book club, gardening group, or walking club, can provide regular social interaction and a sense of belonging.

• Attend Community Events: Participating in local events and activities can introduce you to new people and strengthen existing relationships.

• Volunteer: Giving back to the community is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and stay socially active.

Enhancing Physical Health

Did you know that being socially active can also improve our physical health? Social activities often involve physical movement, which helps keep us active and healthy. Plus, having a strong support system can encourage healthier lifestyle choices, like regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Ideas for Physical Activities with Friends

• Group Exercise Classes: From yoga to tai chi, group classes are a fun way to stay fit while socializing.

• Walking Groups: Regular walks with friends provide exercise and a chance to chat and catch up.

• Dance Nights: Dancing is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy time with others.

Building a Supportive Community

In our assisted living Fountain Hills community, we focus on creating an environment where social connections can thrive. We offer various programs and activities to unite residents and foster a sense of community. From hobby groups to social events, we believe in the power of connection.

Creating a Welcoming Space

• Common Areas: Comfortable and inviting areas encourage residents to gather and interact.

• Activity Calendar: An active calendar filled with diverse events ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open communication helps build trust and stronger relationships among residents.

Encouraging New Friendships

Moving to a new place can be daunting, but it also presents a wonderful opportunity to make new friends. Being open to new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to meaningful and lasting relationships.

Tips for Making New Friends

• Attend Social Events: Make it a point to attend community events and introduce yourself to new people.

• Share Your Interests: Joining groups or clubs that align with your hobbies is a great way to meet people with similar interests.

• Be Open and Friendly: A warm smile and a friendly greeting can go a long way in making connections.

In our senior living communities, we’ve seen how social connections can transform lives. By fostering a supportive and engaging environment, we help our residents build strong, meaningful relationships that enhance their health and happiness. 

The Importance of Environmental Sustainability in Senior Living Communities

Environmental sustainability has become a crucial consideration for senior living communities. Integrating eco-friendly practices not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for residents. Assisted living facilities are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to create healthier, more sustainable living environments.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a key component of environmental sustainability. Implementing energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems to reduce energy consumption. LED lighting, programmable thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances help decrease the carbon footprint and lower utility costs. In assisted living communities, these measures ensure a comfortable living environment while promoting sustainability.

Water Conservation

Water conservation is another vital aspect of sustainable living. Install low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to reduce water usage. Implementing landscaping practices that include drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems also contribute to water conservation. In places like assisted living Fountain Hills, where water resources can be scarce, these practices are particularly important.

Waste Reduction

Reducing waste is essential for promoting environmental sustainability. Adopt recycling programs and encourage residents to participate actively. Composting organic waste and reducing single-use plastics can significantly minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills. Facilities can also collaborate with local organizations to ensure proper disposal and recycling of medical and hazardous waste.

Sustainable Building Materials

Using sustainable building materials is another effective way to promote environmental sustainability. Incorporate materials like bamboo, recycled steel, and low-VOC paints in their construction and renovation projects. These materials are not only eco-friendly but also contribute to healthier indoor air quality, benefiting residents’ overall well-being.

Green Transportation

Encouraging green transportation options can reduce the environmental impact of senior living communities. Providing shuttle services, promoting carpooling, and offering bicycle racks can help decrease the reliance on individual vehicles. These initiatives can reduce traffic congestion and lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Resident Education and Engagement

Educating and engaging residents in sustainability practices is crucial for the success of these initiatives. Organize workshops and activities that promote eco-friendly habits, such as recycling, energy conservation, and sustainable gardening. By involving residents in sustainability efforts, communities foster a sense of responsibility and pride among residents, enhancing their quality of life.

Health and Wellness Benefits

Sustainable practices also offer significant health and wellness benefits. Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, improving air quality, and promoting outdoor activities in green spaces contribute to better physical and mental health. These practices create a nurturing environment that supports the well-being of all residents.

Cost Savings

Implementing sustainable practices can lead to significant cost savings. Energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and waste reduction programs reduce operational costs, allowing communities to allocate resources to other important areas. These savings can enhance the overall quality of services provided to residents.

Environmental sustainability is essential for creating healthier, more vibrant living environments. By adopting eco-friendly practices, communities can reduce their environmental impact, improve residents’ well-being, and achieve long-term cost savings. Whether in assisted living, or senior living Scottsdale, sustainability initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors while protecting our planet for future generations.

Impacting the World for Good Through the MorningStar Foundation

MorningStar of Happy Valley is part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, whose mission is to “cast a new light on senior living.” We start by creating a true home for the residents in our communities, made possible by a dedicated team who understand the highest expression of living is to share their gifts and talents, time and energy with others. 

The scope of our Vision to love and honor also includes impacting the world for good through the MorningStar Foundation, and offering support to philanthropic initiatives within our local neighborhoods and around the world. One such project is our support to the people of Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. We serve not only the children of the Casa Bernabé orphanage but holistically serve the impoverished area. We also are proud to support Lifewater, whose Healthy Village strategy focuses not just on their delivery of a safe water point, but on the villagers’ monitored adoption of hygiene habits in each and every home.

Closer to home, MorningStar’s senior living communities are great supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association. We participate in events throughout the year including the “Longest Day Celebration” (summer solstice), which was held on June 21st this year. Our uplifting celebrations included hosting fundraisers of every sort, balloon releases, games, food and more. Additionally, our communities participate in the “Walk to End Alzheimer's,” either by walking, sponsoring or hosting other creative ways to raise funds. Other efforts include doing our share by volunteering with local nonprofits to help where there is a need. 

If you are looking for exceptional senior living in Happy Valley for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.  Our beautiful community offers 61 stylish assisted living suites and 27 suites devoted to the individualized care of those with memory impairment.  We also offer short-term stays to see if we are a good fit as well as respite care. Please contact us for availability and pricing. 
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MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, OR.

Stretching Can Help Maintain Flexibility and Mobility

If you are a senior who would like to get some exercise, 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 them do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere.  The Silver Sneakers website recommends that as you stretch, “to breathe deeply, and go slowly. Listen to your body, and never force a movement that causes pain.”  They remind seniors it is okay if they cannot bend very far as over time they will loosen up some.  Safety is always important and you do not want to hurt yourself.  Other exercises especially good for seniors include chair yoga, resistance band workouts, walking, and dumbbell strength training.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our beautiful community offers a whole host of amenities and care services as well as wellness programs that include exercises geared toward our residents.  Located southeast of Portland, Oregon, we are convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and restaurants as well as other services.  Contact us to learn what sets us apart from other senior living communities and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, OR.

Source: silversneakers.com/blog/stretching-for-seniors-7-simple-moves-for-the-not-so-flexible/

Financial Scammers Often Target Elderly Adults

Each year elderly seniors fall prey to ruthless schemes that rob them of their money and identity. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), In 2021, there were over 92,000 older victims of fraud resulting in $1.7 billion in losses. The sad part is that it is often a result of a senior’s trusting nature or feelings of isolation and loneliness; or in some cases, a senior may have cognitive issues that impair their judgement and decision-making skills.   

Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting.  Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite and agreeable to others, which in turn can make them more susceptible to fraud. Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger.  

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) alerts the public to scams targeting seniors so if you have a parent or other elderly loved ones who may be at risk, look at the information and discuss the various schemes used with them.  One scam frequently used is for a thief to call unsuspecting victims and pretend to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They have many angles such as saying the individual has unpaid taxes or their Social Security or Medicare benefits are in danger of being cut off.  They then demand payment (in the case of unpaid taxes) or ask for personal identifying information, which is then used to commit fraud. These impersonators often “spoof” the actual phone numbers of the government agency, or call from the same area code for Washington, DC, tricking the victim into believing the call is legitimate.

The NCOA says there are ways to avoid getting scammed such as never giving out your personal information to anyone but a trusted family member, friend or your professional financial advisor.  In addition, never make big financial decisions without consulting with one of those trusted people.  Also, do not give out personal PIN numbers, or Medicare and other financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call or know the person.  

Other commonsense advice includes being wary of high-pressure salespersons, never signing a contract until you understand it entirely, and to be suspicious of unexpected announcements of winning money, trips, or other prizes.  Experts say it is most likely a hoax.  Always take your time when making financial decisions and do not give blanket approval to a vendor for medical equipment and other purchases.  

MorningStar of Happy Valley’s mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: ncoa.org/article/top-10-financial-scams-targeting-seniors

Life After a Loved One’s Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is devastating news for all.  Family members may quickly start experiencing feelings of grief as they recognize their life is about to be changed by the disease and are uneasy about what the future will hold.  Most are left with questions about what to expect next.  

As Alzheimer’s begins to take away the person we know and love, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that, “you'll mourn him or her and may experience the different phases of grieving: denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance.”  They remind us that feelings of grief do not come in a specific order but rather we go in and out of the various stages.

Feelings of denial include unrealistically hoping the person is not ill or expecting them to get better.  Others try to convince themselves their loved one has not changed or try to normalize and make excuses for their behaviors.  Anger may include being frustrated with the person or feeling abandoned.  You may also experience feelings of resentment with the demands of caregiving and/or resent others who are not helping with care.   

Guilt includes having unrealistic thoughts about what you should have done or feeling guilty if you do not visit every day.  A spouse that is well and still able to enjoy life may feel guilty that their husband or wife is no longer able to do so.  Others may have negative feelings such as wishing the person would die or go away.  

The Alzheimer’s Association says you need to face both your positive as well as negative feelings.  They also say to be prepared to go through feelings of loss more than once as the disease progresses.  Remember your grief is a part of your journey, and if you need help, talk with someone about your feelings.  

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our goal is to provide the best senior living in the area, which includes compassionate and loving memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our memory care residents are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve and spend each day in an atmosphere that celebrates and elevates their lives. Please visit our website for more information about our exceptional assisted living and senior living communities. 

MorningStar of Happy Valley proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley.