MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care

Learn More About MorningStar of Happy Valley

Rather than diminish a senior’s life, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Happy Valley help to improve quality of life for residents in a variety of ways.  Along with providing the daily care services residents need to maintain their independence, we provide on-going support to ensure their safety, comfort and continued personal growth.  For our residents’ families, they get peace of mind knowing their loved one is being well-cared for. 

Another benefit of MorningStar’s assisted living homes is the healthy dining that allows residents to self-manage a variety of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian or low fat.  Additionally, our medication care management services see to it that residents’ medications are ordered, delivered and dispensed in a meticulous, timely fashion.  Services also include light housekeeping, laundry, transportation and more.  

Moreover, as the CDC reports that each year about 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, residents at MorningStar feel comforted knowing that help is just the push of a button away as all suites are equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Call System.  In addition, all bathrooms are handicap-accessible and equipped with grab bars.   

Along with assisted living, Happy Valley area families trust MorningStar to compassionately care for their loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Our care techniques include a variety of multi-sensory cues designed to calm and awaken memories as well as to support the person’s capabilities and affirm their dignity and value.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with kindness and thoughtfulness.

Our beautiful community is in a southeastern suburb of Portland, Oregon on the south side of SE Sunnyside Road between SE 142nd Ave. and SE 145th Ave, and about three miles from Interstate 205.  The popular Happy Valley food-cart park borders us to the east and Clackamas Town Center is just minutes away. Please visit our website for more information. 

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 or visit our website for more information about the finest assisted living and memory care in Happy Valley, OR.

Suggestions to Reduce the Risk of Falls

The Mayo Clinic reminds older adults it is important they take proper precautions to prevent falls.  Medical conditions, the resulting medications needed, and a more sedentary lifestyle can result in weaker muscles and balance problems that can lead to a fall.  Also, please keep in mind, a fall for an older adult can cause injuries that are very serious such as a broken hip, head trauma, or in the most severe cases, death.   

However, the solution to preventing falls is not to stop moving.  The medical experts at the Mayo Clinic explain being inactive is bad for our health regardless of how old we are, and it is vital that we keep moving.  To that end, they suggest a commonsense six-part plan to keep seniors safely mobile.    

Their first recommendation is to set up an appointment with your doctor.  Bring to the visit a list of all your medications and be prepared to discuss with your doctor any side effects of the drugs that may put you more at risk for a fall such as anti-depressants or sedatives.  It may be possible to eliminate or substitute the medication for something else.  Also, talk to your doctor about whether you have fallen and if it was due to your medical condition.   

In addition, discuss with your healthcare provider what type of exercise would be best for you.  Typically walking, swimming and something like tai chi are gentle exercises that are safe for most; and offer the benefit of strengthening muscles, improving balance, and gait.  

Other ways to lessen your risk for a fall begins by reviewing your home with an eye to fall prevention.  Start by checking hallways and stairways for adequate lighting and add more if needed.  Secure loose rugs and make sure you have wide clear paths for walking around your home.  Wear proper fitting shoes with nonskid soles and use assistive aids like a cane or walker if necessary to maintain your balance.  Install grab bars and railings where needed.           

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our beautiful assisted living homes are designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers 61 assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to the specialized care of those with memory impairment.   For trusted seniors living in Happy Valley, visit our website or contact us for further information about our memory care.

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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, OR.

Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

The Benefits of Daily Stretching

Have you noticed you are no longer as flexible as you used to be and the movements of your limbs and joints feel more restricted? If it is harder to do things like turning your neck to look behind you when driving or getting up from a low chair, you would probably benefit from incorporating stretches into your routine. Experts say daily stretching can make significant improvement in flexibility, the ability of the muscles and tendons to lengthen and stretch in response to movement, and allow a joint to move through its range of motion.         

In addition, being more flexible improves balance and lowers the risk for a fall. Stretching increases the range of movement in the joints, improves posture and eases muscle tension and soreness as well as increases circulation. Along with dedicated stretching exercises, seniors can increase flexibility with yoga, Pilates, swimming, tai chi, dancing and massage. 

A study on a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults reported by the Journal of Gerontology found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.”  

It is easy to do stretching exercises as they do not require special equipment and can be done anywhere. However, before beginning any new exercise routine including stretching, consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level. Experts say you should warm up before stretching such as taking a walk around the block, which in itself helps to stretch muscles and tendons. Also, don’t stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension; or bounce when stretching. Typically hold the stretch for no more than 30 seconds.

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, we offer 61 private assisted living suites in a choice of spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans.  Our Reflections Neighborhood has 27 secure suites devoted to the personalized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Residents enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with resort-style amenities, care services and a range of programs including exercise classes tailored to seniors’ needs.  Visit our website for more information about our beautiful assisted living homes. 

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 to learn more about the finest senior living in Happy Valley, OR.

Source: healthline.com/health/senior-health/stretching-exercises#Benefits-of-stretching-

morelifehealth.com/articles/regaining-flexibility-guide