Morning Pointe Calhoun: Holiday Tips for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers and Families
Tuesday, November 29, 2022
If you have a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the holidays can be challenging. Let Morning Pointe Senior Living and The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer’s Centers of Excellence share some tips for making this season easier on you and your loved one… so you can create meaningful moments.
Adjust Expectations
Make sure everyone understands your caregiver situation and has realistic expectations about what you can and cannot do. Give yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably manage.
Involve the Person with Dementia
Holiday Activities – Involve your loved one in safe, manageable holiday preparation activites.
Keep the Routine – Maintain the person’s normal routine so holiday preparations don’t become disruptive or confusing.
Build on Past Traditions and Memories – Your family member may find comfort in singing old holiday songs, for example.
Adapt Gift Giving
Giving Useful Gifts – Encourage people to buy useful gifts for your loved one, such as an identification bracelet; comfortable, easy-to-remove-clothing; favorite music; lotions; videos; and photo albums or framed photos.
Get Them Involved – Depending on your loved one’s abilities, get him or her involved in giving or wrapping gifts.
Try to Be Flexible
Scheduling – Find a time for your holiday event that works best for your loved one; for example, if your loved one becomes agitated in the evening (sundowning), try getting together earlier in the day.
Make Things Easy – Simplifying holiday plans can make for a more satisfying experience for you and your loved one.
From all of us at Morning Pointe, we wish you and your loved one a merry Christmas and happy holidays!
Morning Pointe Foundation’s Caregiver Café with CEUs to address Alzheimer’s/dementia
Thursday, October 20, 2022
David Hutchings, Ph.D., will present a webinar, “Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Caregiving” through the Morning Pointe Foundation on Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m.
The presentation is the latest in the Foundation’s Caregiver Café series and is free to caregivers around the world.
For the first time, through a partnership with the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, the Foundation is offering continuing education credit for registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and masters of social work. These professionals can sign up to earn 1.5 contact hours or 0.15 CEUs with a cost of $25. Following the presentation, they will take a brief survey to earn the credit.
Hutchings is a geriatric neuropathology and dementia specialist. The seminar will touch on types of dementia and the difference between them, as well as genetic risks, treatment, stages of dementia and managing advanced symptoms. Live attendees will also have a chance to ask questions at the end of the session.
View a preview video clip of Dr. Hutchings’ presentation…
“This is an exciting opportunity for The Morning Pointe Foundation and Morning Pointe Senior Living,” said Miranda Perez, Foundation executive director. “We are passionate about education for our caregivers, and being able to further our associates’ professional careers this way is taking what we do to the next level. We are thankful to UTC for partnering with us for this opportunity.”
To register, go to morningpointe.com/caregivercafe. The ongoing Morning Pointe Caregiver Café wellness series connects experts on senior living and care with those experiencing the physical and mental effects of aging. Registrants not using the webinar as a continuing education course can watch the webinar live or register and watch later at their convenience.
The Morning Pointe Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Morning Pointe Senior Living founded by Tennessee-based senior healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and J. Franklin Farrow. The 501(c)3 nonprofit public service organization was created in 2014 to provide caregiver support programs, sponsor educational awareness events, and fund clinical scholarships to advance the care of seniors throughout the Southeast.
Founded in 1997 by Tennessee healthcare entrepreneurs Greg Vital and Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living owns and operates 37 senior living, personal care and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states and is celebrating its silver anniversary throughout 2022.
Morning Pointe Senior Living offers tips to reduce seniors’ fall risk
Wednesday, September 7, 2022
September is Fall Prevention Month, and Morning Pointe Senior Living is taking the opportunity to share the importance of good balance for seniors.
“Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death for seniors,” said Mandy Taylor, RN and senior vice president of clinical services at Morning Pointe Senior Living. “Falls can dramatically affect quality of life and independence for older adults.”
For example, a fall may result in a broken bone, a head injury, bruises or simply a decreased level of confidence in movement, which can increase the risk of falling.
Each of these outcomes takes a harder toll on senior adults’ bodies, from bone healing to skin integrity.
Katie Grant, doctor of physical therapy, shared that 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falls.
“The population is aging, so the number of people falling is increasing,” Grant shared. “There are a number of contributing factors with age. Seniors may lose some of their strength and muscle mass as they are often less active. They may be on more medications, have problems with their vision or be more likely to experience a vitamin D deficiency.”
The good news is that falling is not inevitable. There are several ways older adults (and individuals of any age) can lower their fall risk.
Fall Risk Reduction Tips: What to Do/What to Avoid:
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Ensure your environment is well-lit. Replace burned-out lightbulbs (or have family replace them if they are not an easy reach). Put a lamp next to your bed, or keep a night light to illuminate the way to the bathroom.
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Take your medications as prescribed. Talk to your doctor and/or pharmacist if you feel dizzy. Sometimes medications can affect your balance, and your health care provider may be able to help.
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Have your vision checked regularly. Poor vision can cause missteps or allow you to bump into things more easily.
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Wear stable footwear, such as non-slip shoes. Avoid flip-flops or high heels.
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Check your vitamin D, and talk to your doctor to see if you need to supplement.
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Ensure hand rails are in place on both sides of stairs.
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Make clear paths throughout your house, without clutter or furniture in the way.
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Avoid throw rugs – they are a tripping hazard.
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Take your time rising from your bed or chair. Rising too fast can lead to a drop in blood pressure.
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Be mindful of small animals, such as dogs or cats, while standing or walking.
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Store items you use frequently on easy-to-reach shelves or cupboards.
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Add a grab bar and/or non-slip bath mat to your shower.
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If you have been recommended a specific assistive device (such as a cane, four-wheel walker or front-wheel walker), use the device recommended by your health care provider.
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Maintain an active lifestyle. Moving and exercising improves your balance and strengthens your body, maintaining your muscle mass.
Strength and balance exercises that can be useful for seniors include (but are not limited to) yoga, tai chi, gardening, walking with light weights, or simply doing light squats while holding onto a chair or countertop.
“You can absolutely improve your balance,” said Grant. “You just have to challenge it in a safe environment.”
One great tool for seniors is to get a fall risk assessment by their primary care physician or physical therapist.
“Therapists are here to help get people stronger,” said Grant. “We work on strength in physical therapy, and occupational therapists have an eye for safety. We can encourage patients with a home exercise program to carry over after therapy sessions.”
On-site therapy is one of the tools all Morning Pointe Senior Living communities use in their fall-reduction strategy for residents.
“Therapies can certainly play a role in decreasing fall risk,” said Mandy Taylor. “With the goal of increasing resident independence and wellness, Morning Pointe’s partnership with our onsite therapy services in each of our communities is vital in providing our residents easy access to physical, occupational, and speech therapies.”
Other ways Morning Pointe facilities strive to increase safety and avoid falls include providing grab bars in resident rooms and bathrooms, one-level construction of each building and easy access to staff for assistance.
For the best fall risk strategies for you, please consult with your personal physician. Also, visit cdc.gov/falls/ for more information and statistics about falls and seniors.
Founded in 1997 by Tennessee healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living owns and operates 37 senior living, personal care, and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states and is celebrating its silver anniversary in 2022.
Morning Pointe celebrates new renovation, 25 years of service to the Calhoun community
Friday, May 13, 2022
Morning Pointe of Calhoun Assisted Living and Memory Care Facility, located at 660 Jolly Road, held a 25th Anniversary Celebration and Open House for their newly remodeled facility on Thursday, May 12.
“With the application of $1.5 million in upgrades and enhancements, we are investing in the commitment to excellence that Morning Pointe Senior Living is known for throughout the region. We want to welcome in the greatest generation to come live their best years at Morning Pointe of Calhoun,” said Greg Vital, president of Morning Pointe Senior Living.
At this time, Morning Pointe consists of 36 properties, with a 37th on the way soon. The company began in the mid-90’s, founded by Vital and co-founder Franklin Farrow.
At Thursday’s ceremony, Farrow explained how Morning Pointe came to the Calhoun community.
“Back in 1999, in the early infancy of this company, we acquired this building that had been built by some local folks who had come together after deciding to serve local senior citizens by creating Regal Residence,” said Farrow. “They did a great job getting this property up and running, and then we came along in 1999 with an acquisition and formally launched it as Morning Pointe Senior Living. This is one of the early buildings that we had in our portfolio and the Lord continually blessed us as we continued to grow. We based ourselves in Chattanooga, and we’ve grown into one of the area’s largest providers. We’re blessed with our growth and we’re blessed to be here serving our seniors in the Southeast.”
Tracy Clements, executive director of Morning Pointe of Calhoun, said it’s one of her greatest pleasures to get to go to work at Morning Pointe each day.
“It’s a joy to be with these residents; to hear their stories, to hear their advice, because they have lots of advice to give. With age comes knowledge,” said Clements. “I love to take in everything they tell me, and use it.”
Clements also introduced her staff, saying they are very dedicated to Morning Pointe. Staff members introduced included: Director of Nursing, Beverly Shaw; Community Relations Director, Virginia Smith; Food Services Director, Nina Keiser; Activities Director, Keisha Cox; Business Office Manager, Rebecca Williams; Maintenance Director, Bruce Harkins; Lantern Program Coordinator, Rose.
Calhoun Mayor Jimmy Palmer read a little of a proclamation from five years prior, at Morning Pointe of Calhoun’s 20th anniversary celebration, saying the company has the mission of serving seniors through a positive corporate culture and reflects Christian values.
“(The founders) shared one vision, to change the senior care industry,” said Palmer. “Morning Pointe of Calhoun is committed to providing services that enhance the wellness, lifestyle and enjoyment of senior living in a secure environment that promotes hospitality, dignity, independence and quality of life. Morning Pointe Senior Living has become what it is today because of the trust that families placed in them, their compassionate associates and the countless number of volunteers that help them exceed expectations and by providing exceptional senior living and Alzheimer’s care. I thank them for their commitment to our community and I appreciate what they have done; many of us have family or friends at this facility and we know the value they bring to our community. I congratulate them on 25 years.”
Eddie Brannon, owner of Max Brannon Funeral Home, spoke of his experience with Morning Pointe of Calhoun after his father, Max, the founder of the funeral home, was placed in care at the senior living facility.
“I am a self-appointed ambassador for Morning Pointe Senior Living and the Lantern, and I’ve been an ambassador for them for quite a few years,” said Brannon. “I saw the work they did here and became a part of it; my wife called BINGO and I always came with her. My dad was here for three-and-a-half years. I tried to keep dad at home, and with me working 24/7…I couldn’t give him the care he so desperately deserved and so desperately needed. So I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, where my first call was going to be, and it was here at Morning Pointe. Dad loved it here and I loved coming up here. Dad was so peaceful (here). I’m glad to be a part of the Morning Pointe family. I appreciate everything they are doing here; the remodel is beautiful. Remember, if you have a loved one that needs the kind of care that’s being give here, Morning Pointe is the place to go.”
Retired Calhoun City Schools administrator Kay Baxter, who is now a resident of Morning Pointe, spoke of the wonderful atmosphere that makes Morning Pointe home to her and her fellow residents.
“My husband was here at The Lantern for two years and he was treated with great skill, and kindness and understanding by everyone who was there,” said Baxter. “The motto at Morning Pointe is, ‘This is your home,’ and (the staff) asks ‘how can we assist you?’ I cannot think, at our age, for a better home. Thank you, Morning Pointe, for hiring the wonderful people (who work here).”
In addition to speakers and a ribbon cutting, the Calhoun High School Trio and Quartet performed several selections of music, and the Gordon Central High School JROTC presented a Flag Ceremony, while Morning Pointe of Calhoun resident Raymond Goza, veteran of the U.S. Army and Air Force Reserves, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Small, guided group tours were offered, along with chef-prepared specialty desserts for those in attendance.
For more information on Morning Pointe, visit morningpointe.com or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MorningPointeofCalhoun. You can also call them at 706-629-0777.
Morning Pointe of Calhoun to hold grand reopening celebration on May 12
Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s Memory Care community recently completed $1.5M renovation
Friday, April 29, 2022
Morning Pointe of Calhoun Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s Memory Care campus will celebrate its recent $1.5 million renovation with a public Grand Reopening on May 12 at 3:30 pm at the campus located at 660 Jolly Road NW. Local dignitaries and special guests from the Gordon County area will be in attendance, including Calhoun City Mayor Jimmy Palmer, the Calhoun High School Trio, the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce, and other well-known friends of Morning Pointe. Founded in 1997 by Tennessee healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living owns and operates 36 assisted living, personal care, and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states.
“We can’t wait to show you how beautiful and functional
the new interior of Morning Pointe of Calhoun is,” said longtime Calhoun native and Executive Director, Traci Clements. “Don’t just take my word for it, ask the residents. They love the newly updated colors and furnishings. Now it feels even more comfortable and just like home!”
Morning Pointe of Calhoun is one of the first buildings that Morning Pointe purchased in the early 2000s when co-founders Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow first began operating senior living communities. Over the years, ownership has invested in periodic upgrades to the facility—including the addition of a memory care wing—but this is the first major renovation of this magnitude.
“I am so excited. They’ve done a great job doing all this and making these decisions,” said Maureen Grizzle, who has been a resident at Morning Pointe of Calhoun for over four years.
Morning Pointe of Calhoun offers one-level living with 61 spacious apartments, including a secure wing specially designed for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory care needs. Uniquely designed layouts were planned with seniors in mind, including a comfortable home-like environment with a team of associates and medical partners dedicated to serving residents. Amenities like a library, exercise room, and sitting nooks offer solace and encourage socialization among friends. Beautiful, secure courtyards showcase walking paths, sitting areas, and gathering spots for residents to enjoy the outdoors. Morning Pointe’s purposeful programming fosters independence and support with a strong focus on clinical care including physical and occupational therapies, life enrichment and wellness offerings. Farm-to-Table fresh dining and intergenerational activities help residents live their best.
For more information on Morning Pointe of Calhoun, visit morningpointe.com/locations/calhoun.
Morning Pointe of Calhoun nearing completion of $1.5 million renovation
Major upgrades to all interior surfaces and finishes at the Georgia senior living campus
Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021
Morning Pointe of Calhoun is nearing completion of a $1.5 million interior renovation of its Assisted Living and Memory Care community. Every major surface and finish will be completely new when construction is completed later this month, including carpeting, flooring, interior furniture, fresh paint, and more.
“Our home has ‘uniquely southern’ charm, and when the residents walk in the door here—I want them to say, ‘This is beautiful, but I can relax here,” said Traci Clements, executive director of Morning Pointe of Calhoun. “When you walk down our halls, you’ll notice all the new elements that have been upgraded, from the dining room, to the hallways, and everything in between. We are so excited to show it off!”
Morning Pointe of Calhoun is one of the first buildings that Morning Pointe purchased in the early 2000s when co-founders Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow first began
Morning Pointe of Calhoun, located on Jolly Road in Calhoun, is nearing completion of a $1.5 million renovation project.
operating senior living communities. Over the years, ownership has invested in periodic upgrades to the facility—including the addition of a memory care wing—but this is the first major renovation since that time. Nearing its 25 year anniversary, Morning Pointe Senior Living now owns and operates 35 assisted living, personal care, and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states.
“We knew we wanted to serve residents and their families in the North Georgia area when we first began operating Morning Pointe Senior Living, and through the years, this has been a wonderful place for seniors to call home,” said Greg Vital, president of Morning Pointe Senior Living. “With the application of $1.5 million in upgrades and enhancements, we are investing in the commitment to excellence that Morning Pointe Senior Living is known for throughout the region. We want to welcome in the greatest generation to come live their best years at Morning Pointe of Calhoun.”
Morning Pointe of Calhoun Executive Director Traci Clements shows some of the changes made to the interior of the facility during the recent renovation.
Residents are thrilled that their home is being remodeled. “I am so excited. They’ve done a great job doing all this and making these decisions,” said Maureen Grizzle, who has been a resident at Morning Pointe of Calhoun for over four years.
“As you walk down the hallway, you’re going to notice all the beautiful new furnishings and fixtures,” said executive director Clements. “Everywhere you look there are new and exciting upgrades—it’s all coming together! Come see all we have to offer here at Morning Pointe of Calhoun.”
For more information on Morning Pointe of Calhoun, find us on Facebook, call 706-629-0777, or visit morningpointe.com.
ABOVE: The main living room at Morning Pointe has a unique, Southern charm feel.
BELOW : A sitting area in the main living room and a hallway that has been remodeled.
Morning Pointe of Calhoun Maintenance Director Bruce Harkins shows new appliances that are part of the renovation project at the facility..
A table and chairs in the newly renovated dining area; a resident enjoying a scrumptious meal at Morning Pointe.
