Dehydration in Older Adults: Symptoms, Treatment, & Prevention

Dehydration is more than just feeling thirsty—especially as we get older. In this episode of the Better Health While Aging podcast, Dr. Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, a board-certified geriatrician, explains how aging affects hydration and what you can do to protect yourself or a loved one.

Learn why older adults are more vulnerable to dehydration, how to recognize signs and symptoms that may be overlooked, how dehydration is actually diagnosed, and what practical treatment steps can help prevent serious health consequences. Dr. Kernisan also explains what to know about heat stroke and how to take precautions during heat waves. Whether you're navigating hot weather, illness, or daily life, this video will help you stay hydrated and healthier as you age.

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Q&A: How to Prevent, Detect, & Treat Dehydration in Aging Adults: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/qa...

Topics Covered
What dehydration means and how it affects the body
Why older adults are more prone to dehydration
Common causes: medications, mobility, memory loss, incontinence
Symptoms to look for—and why they can be unreliable
How dehydration is diagnosed with lab tests
Treatment options for mild, moderate, and severe dehydration
Tips for preventing dehydration in daily life and hot weather
How to stay safe during heat waves

#DehydrationAwareness #HydrationTips #HealthyAging #SeniorHealth #BetterHealthWhileAging #Geriatrics #OlderAdults #Hydrated

Chapters
0:00 Introduction to Dehydration
1:37 What is Dehydration?
3:53 Why Older Adults Are at Risk
7:00 Causes of Dehydration in Aging
8:56 Symptoms & Signs to Watch For
10:57 Diagnosing Dehydration
15:04 Consequences of Dehydration
16:56 How to Treat Dehydration
18:13 When to See a Doctor
21:52 Tips for Preventing Dehydration
24:55 Managing Hot Weather
29:44 Recap & Final Tips

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Disclaimer
The material on the Better Health While Aging YouTube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information:
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