By Dr. Macie Smith
When we think about getting out of the hospital, we usually think things are better. But for older adults, that’s not always the case. In fact, they may leave the hospital in worse shape than when they arrived due to functional decline. Functional decline means you aren’t able to do things you used to be able to do. This can be the result of being in bed for an extended period of time, poor nutrition or worse, a hospital-acquired infection. That’s why it’s so important to avoid hospitalization in the first place. The good news is that you can prevent the three most common reasons older adults are hospitalized. These are urinary tract infections (UTIs), dehydration and falls! Now let’s talk about how to reduce your risk.
Staying Hydrated!
The best way to avoid a UTI is to drink lots of water. This helps dilute the urine. It also leads to urinating more often— allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract before an infection can begin.
This can be challenging for older adults because the sensation of thirst diminishes with age. Also, reduced mobility can make going to the bathroom a challenge, which results in limiting fluids.
In addition to not feeling thirsty, older adults have less water in their bodies than they used to, which makes them more at risk for dehydration. Dehydration can cause serious health effects such as dizziness, difficulty walking, confusion and rapid heart rate.
Water is the best way to stay hydrated, but it’s ok to mix it up with diluted juice, coffee or tea—in moderation.
The Importance of Good Hygiene.
Good hygiene is also important. Wipe from front to back to avoid the spread of bacteria. Cleansing the area is also important.
Avoiding Slips and Falls.
Lastly, falls are a major threat to the health of older adults and can be caused by a variety of things. Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, so it’s important to speak to their doctor about medication management. Loss of muscle mass can affect strength and balance so weight training can make a big difference. Hazards in the home can contribute to falls as well. Eliminate clutter, throw rugs and low lighting, and add grab bars, railings and non-slip mats in the bathroom to decrease risk of falls.
Remember: being proactive with your health can go a long way in reducing your chances of being hospitalized.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, click here.
