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/

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