Dehydration is dangerous for senior health
Drinking enough water is important for everyone, but especially for older adults who are at greater risk for dehydration.
A UCLA study found that 40% of seniors may be chronically under-hydrated. That can easily lead to dehydration and cause a variety of serious health problems, including urinary tract infections (UTI), falls, kidney stones, and more. And, adults age 65 and up have the highest hospital admission rates for dehydration.
To help keep your older adult healthy and safe, we explain why dehydration is so common in seniors, mild and serious dehydration symptoms, the health risks of being dehydrated, how much water a person needs, and the benefits of staying hydrated.
Benefits of drinking enough water
Aside from avoiding serious health problems, staying well hydrated has its benefits too.
Drinking enough water means:
- Less constipation / reduced need for laxatives
- Fewer falls
- Reduced risk of urinary tract infection
- Men may have reduced risk of bladder cancer
- Reduced risk of colorectal cancer