Chiropractic

The Risk of Dehydration in Older Adults

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As we get older, body water content decreases, the risk for dehydration increases, and the consequences become more serious. Dehydration has been associated with increased mortality rates among hospitalized older adults�and can precipitate emergency hospitalization and increase the risk of repeated stays in hospital.

Dehydration is a frequent cause of hospitalization of older adults and one of the ten most frequent diagnoses responsible for hospitalization in the United-States. Evidence suggests high dehydration rates of elderly patients within hospitals and other health care institutions. Dehydration has also been associated with various morbidities, such as impaired cognition or acute confusion, falling or constipation.

The cost associated with dehydration may be very high: a study conducted in 1999 in the United States evaluated the avoidable costs of hospitalizations due to dehydration at $1.14 billion.

Why are the elderly more susceptible to dehydration?

The amount of body water decreases by approximately 15% (about 6 L) between the ages of 20 and 80. With this decrease, the body becomes more susceptible to dehydration from the loss of a small amount of body water.

Moreover, the elderly often experience diminished thirst sensation which leads to a reduced fluid consumption. Also as a consequence of aging, the kidneys have a reduced ability to concentrate urine and retain water during water deprivation.�In addition, aging kidneys are less able to conserve or excrete sodium.

Insufficient fluid intakes can also be the result of limitations such as reduced swallowing capacity, decreased mobility, or comprehension and communication disorders. Disease-related factors, such as incontinence can increase water losses. Dehydration may also be caused by warm temperature, inadequate staffing in institutions, or use of laxatives or diuretics.

Preventing Dehydration in the Elderly

Prevention is primarily based on ensuring adequate fluid intake. Raising awareness of the elderly, their families and caregivers on the risks of dehydration and its consequences is fundamental for dehydration prevention, and can lead to cost-savings in geriatric institutions.

SOME STRATEGIES FOR ENCOURAGING FLUIDS CONSUMPTION

  • Offer fluids regularly during the day
  • Make liquids readily available all day (at bedside or chairside in geriatric institutions) by placing containers such as small bottle of water or sippy cups
  • Encourage consumption of fluids with medication
  • Provide preferred beverages
  • Prescribe and safeguard a minimum intake of 1.5 L in periods of increased risk for dehydration

Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.h4hinitiative.com

Water is the substance of life and as important as it is for every organism, older adults are required to drink more water than the average adult. Because the body’s water content decreases with age as the structures and functions of the body change and degenerate naturally, staying hydrating is ultimately essential. In fact, dehydration in older adults can lead to complications.

Chiropractic for Older Adults

Additionally, seeking medical care from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, can help determine the presence of other complications. Spinal degeneration may begin to occur with age and chiropractic treatment can help both prevent further issues and relieve symptoms of back and neck pain. Also, a chiropractor can instruct the individual on other nutritional plans.

For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�

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The information herein on "The Risk of Dehydration in Older Adults" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.

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Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.

We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

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We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.

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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
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Dr Alex Jimenez

Welcome-Bienvenido's to our blog. We focus on treating severe spinal disabilities and injuries. We also treat Sciatica, Neck and Back Pain, Whiplash, Headaches, Knee Injuries, Sports Injuries, Dizziness, Poor Sleep, Arthritis. We use advanced proven therapies focused on optimal mobility, health, fitness, and structural conditioning. We use Individualized Diet Plans, Specialized Chiropractic Techniques, Mobility-Agility Training, Adapted Cross-Fit Protocols, and the "PUSH System" to treat patients suffering from various injuries and health problems. If you would like to learn more about a Doctor of Chiropractic who uses advanced progressive techniques to facilitate complete physical health, please connect with me. We focus on simplicity to help restore mobility and recovery. I'd love to see you. Connect!

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