What Is A Living Will?

As the summer heat intensifies across the country, dehydration becomes a common and potentially dangerous concern. This condition can have severe implications, particularly for seniors who are more vulnerable due to several physiological factors. Seniors face unique challenges, especially when it comes to the impact of their medication on hydration. Why Are Seniors More Prone to Dehydration?Seniors are at an increased risk for dehydration for several reasons:     Reduced Thirst Signal: As people age, their bodies lose their ability to recognize thirst, making it harder to drink fluids.      Lower Body Water Volume: Older adults generally have a lower total volume of body water, meaning they have less fluid to lose before dehydration sets in.      Kidney Function Decline: Kidneys become less efficient at conserving water with age, further contributing to fluid loss.     Chronic Illnesses: Conditions such as diabetes can worsen the risk of dehydration since they affect the body's ability to control water. In addition to these factors, medication plays a significant role in influencing fluid balance in seniors.The Impact of Medication on DehydrationAs a clinical pharmacist, I've seen firsthand how medications can contribute to dehydration, especially in older adults. One of my clients, an active senior, nearly passed out while cycling in the summer. As it turned out, he was on a diuretic medication, commonly referred to as a "water pill." Diuretics are a class of drugs that increase urination, leading to reduced fluid levels in the body. These medications, often prescribed for conditions like hypertension and heart failure, can inadvertently lead to dehydration if fluid intake isn't carefully managed. Some commonly used diuretics include bumetanide, chlorothiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide, and furosemide (Lasix). But diuretics aren't the only medications that can cause dehydration. Other drugs like these can also affect your body's water balance.     Antihistamines: Often used for allergies, these can cause dry mouth and reduced fluid intake.     Blood Pressure Medications: Certain blood pressure medications can increase urine output.     Laxatives: They can cause fluid loss through increased bowel movements.     Chemotherapies: These treatments often lead to side effects like vomiting and diarrhea, contributing to dehydration.Managing Dehydration RisksIt's important to be aware of dehydration risks, particularly for those taking medications that impact fluid balance. Regardless of whether one feels thirsty, its important to drink water throughout the day. Staying alert to the signs of dehydrationsuch as increased thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, fatigue, and dizzinesscan also help address the issue early. These symptoms are early warning signs that the body may need more fluids.  Finally, anyone concerned about dehydration should consult a healthcare provider. They can adjust medication and advise seniors on managing fluid intake to prevent dehydration.   At Deeper Dive Horizons, one of my priorities is to guide you and your loved ones through the complexities of medication management to improve your well-being. With over 22 years of experience, my goal is to dive deeply into your health and ensure you maintain a balanced and healthy life, even in challenging conditions like extreme heat. Schedule a consultation today to get started 888-984-8895.

Here is your chance to live in a historically designated building two blocks from bustling Union Station.  Built in 1882, The Barth Hotel was originally a liquor warehouse, but it was soon converted into an upscale hotel. While the Barth Hotel Assisted Living is historic, it provides a home with tall ceilings, large and expansive windows, and beautiful features throughout the building Senior Housing Options (SHO) purchased the property in 1980 to help solve the problem of older adults being displaced in downtown Denver due to gentrification. SHO continues that mission today providing residential communities and caring services to enrich the lives of older adults in Colorado.  The Barth Hotel accepts Medicaid and private pay for a studio unit and is all-inclusive starting at just $4,000 a month.  All SHO Assisted Living properties provide three home cooked meals a day, snacks, medication administration, 24/7-person centered care, housekeeping and on-site maintenance and life enrichment activities that are included in the all-inclusive rate.  Call today for more information at 303- 534-7142 or plan to attend our open house on August 15, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 1510 17th Street Denver, CO 80202. If a quiet, park-like setting is more to your liking, come visit our Park Hill Residence half a mile east of City Park near the Denver Zoo.  Park Hill Residence was converted from a convent and still possesses its original charm.  There are recently renovated rooms available with the same all-inclusive benefits listed above.  These quaint rooms start at $4,000, Medicaid and private pay accepted.  Another development at Park Hill is the addition of an Adult Day Program beginning Fall 2024 for people 60+ with dementia.  If you would like Information about living at Park Hill or the Adult Day Program, they can be reached at 303-993-5049. Cinnamon Park is our beautiful, assisted living community in Longmont.  Founded by a group of physicians in 1984, Cinnamon Park became a SHO community in 1992.  We currently have availability that includes the same benefits all our residents at SHO assisted living communities enjoy with unit rates beginning at $4,000.  Located in a beautiful residential neighborhood, they share the campus with our affordable living senior community and enjoy many shared activities. We also have open waitlists for many of our affordable housing units too, including hard-to-find two-bedroom units at September House or Decatur in Denver.  If interested, please contact our main number at 303-595-4464. Senior Housing Options is celebrating 45 years of following our vision to assure Colorados older adults live and thrive in a safe, caring community regardless of their financial means.  Please save the date to attend our anniversary celebration on Wednesday, October 16th from 6:00pm 8:00pm at the Space Gallery located in the Denver Arts District.  Industry experts have been invited to speak and a buffet dinner will be served.  More information to follow.  Sponsorship opportunities are available.  Please contact Christine at 303-523-3362 if interested. Senior Housing Options, Inc. (SHO) is a nonprofit organization that serves low- and moderate-income older adults and adults with disabling conditions. SHO is unique in that we provide affordable housing in both the assisted living and more independent settings to those who need it most. We are one of Colorados most long-standing nonprofits in the affordable housing sector, providing the best options for older adults and those with disabilities. Please visit SeniorHousingOptions.org and subscribe to our newsletter, to learn more and keep in touch our phone number is 303-595-4464 and email is info@SeniorHousingOptions.org.

Transitioning into the senior years can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when faced with the challenges of clutter and disorganization. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of bringing calm and order to seniors' lives. In this blog post, we'll explore how professional organizers can transform chaos into calm for seniors, providing practical tips and guidance along the way.Understanding the Impact of Chaos on SeniorsFor many seniors, maintaining a clutter-free and organized living space becomes increasingly challenging as they age. Clutter can contribute to stress, anxiety, and even safety hazards, impacting both physical and mental well-being. Understanding the impact of chaos on seniors is crucial in recognizing the need for professional organizing services.The Power of Professional Organizers for SeniorsCompassionate Guidance: Professional organizers specializing in senior care offer compassionate guidance and support throughout the organizing process. They understand the unique needs and challenges seniors face and provide non-judgmental assistance in decluttering and organizing their living spaces.Customized Solutions: Every senior's situation is unique, which is why professional organizers tailor their services to meet individual needs. They assess the client's living environment, preferences, and mobility considerations to develop customized organizing solutions that promote functionality and independence.Decluttering Expertise: Seniors may accumulate belongings over the years, leading to clutter and disorganization. Professional organizers have the expertise to help seniors declutter their homes efficiently and effectively. They assist in sorting through possessions, identifying items to keep, donate, or discard, and implementing practical storage solutions.Safety and Accessibility: Safety is paramount, especially for seniors living independently. Professional organizers prioritize safety by creating clutter-free and accessible living spaces. They address potential hazards, such as tripping risks and blocked pathways, and implement safety measures such as installing grab bars and improving lighting.Emotional Support: Sorting through belongings can evoke strong emotions for seniors, particularly when parting with sentimental items. Professional organizers offer emotional support and encouragement throughout the process, helping seniors make decisions that align with their goals and values while respecting their emotional attachment to certain belongings.Long-Term Solutions: Professional organizing is not just about tidying up; it's about establishing sustainable systems that promote long-term organization and well-being. Organizers teach seniors practical strategies for maintaining order in their homes, empowering them to stay organized and clutter-free in the future.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we recognize the transformative power of bringing order to seniors' lives. Our team of experienced organizers is dedicated to helping seniors transition from chaos to calm, providing compassionate guidance, customized solutions, and ongoing support every step of the way. With our expertise in decluttering, organizing, and promoting safety, we create harmonious living environments where seniors can thrive independently. Let us be your partner in reclaiming peace, order, and tranquility in your home.