As Florida broils under the most intense heat of the year, it’s important for all of us to stay hydrated, but hydration for older adults can be especially challenging for a number of reasons. Senior dehydration can happen quickly and lead to a number of serious health complications. This is because older adults have less water in their bodies, have a lowered ability to keep their bodies’ fluid levels in balance, and have decreased efficiency in the kidneys, among other factors.
At American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we know that understanding the facts about hydration is the best way to ensure that the older adults you love stay healthy this summer. We’ve debunked some of the common misconceptions about hydration for older adults below.
Myth: You can tell you’re at risk for dehydration when you start to become thirsty.
Fact: Older adults often have a diminished sense of thirst, so this is never an appropriate gauge of hydration level. By the time you feel thirsty, your body’s fluid levels have already dropped by as much as 2-3% of your body weight. Better indicators are the color of urine, which should be pale and clear, and the frequency of urination, which should be every few hours.
Myth: Sports drinks are the best way to hydrate after exercising.
Fact: Sports drinks may be recommended for an older adult who has engaged in a strenuous, lengthy workout, or who has experienced vomiting or diarrhea. Sports drinks can be dangerous, however, for seniors with certain types of medical conditions, such as diabetes. Check with the doctor for guidance. In most cases, plain water is the best source of hydration.
Myth: Everyone needs eight cups of water each day.
Fact: There are a number of factors that determine how much fluid each individual needs: age, climate, medications being taken, diet, activity level, etc. Because older adults have fewer water reserves in the body, it’s important to not just drink enough water each day, but to drink at optimal times during the day: first thing in the morning, before meals, and after exercising, for instance. To determine how much water a senior should drink, take 1/3 of the person’s body weight and aim for that many ounces of water daily (i.e., 60 ounces of water for someone who weighs 180 pounds). However, it’s always best to check with the older adult’s doctor for guidance on fluid consumption.
Myth: You can only stay hydrated by drinking fluids.
Fact: If an older adult balks at drinking lots of fluids, there are foods that contain fluids that can help as well, such as watermelon, celery, cucumbers, and soup. Again, checking with the doctor for recommendations is always a good idea.
Myth: Stay away from coffee; it’s dehydrating.
Fact: Until recently, it was believed that caffeine was a diuretic and increased the risk for dehydration. However, researchers have found that drinking up to four cups per day of coffee or other caffeinated beverages showed no dehydrating effects.
Myth: If a senior appears to be dehydrated, have them drink more water.
Fact: Dehydration can be extremely serious, and depending on the symptoms being displayed, treatment may require more than simply taking a drink. Mild dehydration can present as a headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and muscle cramps. If drinking water or a drink containing electrolytes doesn’t resolve the symptoms within 5-10 minutes, get medical help right away. IV fluids and additional interventions may be needed for moderate to severe dehydration, which can include symptoms such as confusion, trouble walking, a fast, weak pulse, dry, sunken eyes, cramping, increased breathing rate, and more.
At American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we offer referred care providers who can help seniors stay hydrated and healthy. Our services include help with preparing meals, picking up groceries and running other errands, encouraging seniors to drink plenty of fluids and take medications as prescribed, and much more. Each referred care provider will monitor a senior’s condition and report any changes immediately to ensure optimal health and wellbeing.
Contact us to find out more about how our Florida home care experts can help the older adults in your life. Reach out to the office nearest you by clicking the links below to get started:
The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.
As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.
More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.
American In-Home Care LLC is a leading provider of customizable and affordable in-home care services in Florida. With a focus on senior home health care, we offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you require companion care, personal care, live-in or 24-hour care, Alzheimers and dementia care, post-operative care, skilled nursing, or respite care, our dedicated team is here to help.We understand the importance of finding the right care provider for your loved one, which is why we take the time to match our clients with caregivers who are not only qualified but also compassionate and dedicated. Our testimonials and reviews speak to the high level of care and attention to detail that we provide.At American In-Home Care LLC, we care about you and your family, and we strive to make the process of finding quality in-home care as seamless as possible. Contact us today to learn more about what to expect when you choose us as your care provider. Our experienced Client Care Liaisons are here to help you every step of the way.Contact us for a Free Consultation with a local Care Liaison. We help clients live at home by matching them with the best referred Care Providers for their situation, we guarantee it. Services can include Companion Care, Personal Care, Live-in Care, Alzheimers Care, Respite Care, and Assistance with Daily Activities.
American In-Home Care LLC is a leading provider of customizable and affordable in-home care services in Florida. With a focus on senior home health care, we offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you require companion care, personal care, live-in or 24-hour care, Alzheimers and dementia care, post-operative care, skilled nursing, or respite care, our dedicated team is here to help.We understand the importance of finding the right care provider for your loved one, which is why we take the time to match our clients with caregivers who are not only qualified but also compassionate and dedicated. Our testimonials and reviews speak to the high level of care and attention to detail that we provide.At American In-Home Care LLC, we care about you and your family, and we strive to make the process of finding quality in-home care as seamless as possible. Contact us today to learn more about what to expect when you choose us as your care provider. Our experienced Client Care Liaisons are here to help you every step of the way.Contact us for a Free Consultation with a local Care Liaison. We help clients live at home by matching them with the best referred Care Providers for their situation, we guarantee it. Services can include Companion Care, Personal Care, Live-in Care, Alzheimers Care, Respite Care, and Assistance with Daily Activities.