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Published on:

17th Jun 2022

091. Replay: Why we are most susceptible to dehydration as we age

It’s always good to stay hydrated in the heat of summer, but it’s especially important for seniors. A UCLA study found that 40% of seniors may be chronically under-hydrated, with adults age 65 and above having the highest hospital admission rates for dehydration.

There are a few reasons seniors tend to struggle with hydration. Some seniors may have a decreased sense of thirst as they age, and others may struggle with incontinence and avoid drinking enough. Senior Services Expert Lori Williams discusses the main reasons seniors get dehydrated, signs and symptoms, and easy fixes to stay hydrated and even make it fun.

Topics discussed:

- Dehydration in seniors

- Mobility issues

- Cognitive impairments / dementia

- Seniors and UTIs

- How to stay hydrated

- Water-rich foods

Takeaways from this episode:

- Reasons for dehydration in seniors include medications, mobility issues, cognitive impairments, reduced kidney function, and more.

- Signs of dehydration are muscle cramps, dizziness, dark urine, fatigue, dry skin, confusion, rapid breathing and heartbeat, and low blood pressure.

- Risks of dehydration include falling due to disorientation, as well as UTIs, which can escalate to kidney infection and even sepsis.

- You can stay hydrated by eating water-rich foods, such as cucumber and watermelon, making smoothies, or sucking on popsicles.

- Bring a water bottle with you when you’re running errands and keep a large one with you at all times so you don’t have to refill frequently.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Drinking cups for seniors with mobility issues:

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=senior+cups+for+seniors&rh=n%3A3760901%2Cn%3A3775831&dc&qid=1625690471&rnid=2941120011&ref=sr_nr_n_2

Jelly Drops to boost hydration:

https://www.jellydrops.com/

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast please email Lori@Loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter please visit:

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

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About the Podcast

Aging in Style with Lori Williams
Aging in Style with Lori Williams is about finding the silver lining no matter what life throws at you. Whether you're a caregiver or an older adult, you can count on author and multi-award-winning senior living expert Lori Williams to provide you with education and resources on all aspects of aging. The podcast will introduce you to aging experts and inspirational seniors.
Lori pulls from her experience as the caregiver for her husband Mark who is a stroke survivor, and shares how to pay for care, navigate senior housing options, advocate for your loved one's care, and most importantly, learn to thrive not just survive as you age.
loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

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Lori Williams