Staying Hydrated: A Key to Aging Gracefully

Ever feel like you're sipping water all day, yet not getting enough? Imagine being in an older adult's shoes, where the sense of thirst is just a whisper of what it used to be. A study from 2023 found that dehydration affects one in four older adults, with the numbers rising even more for those in long-term care. It's easy to see a glass of water as just that—a simple beverage. But for seniors, it's more of a lifeline, especially when every hot day or new health condition poses an increased risk for dehydration.

Chapters:

• 00:25 Welcome to Aging and Style with Lori Williams
• 00:56 The Importance of Discussing Dehydration
• 01:48 Why Older Adults Are More Vulnerable to Dehydration
• 05:30 Health Consequences of Dehydration
• 07:39 Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration
• 10:06 Tips to Keep Seniors Hydrated
• 15:17 When to Seek Medical Attention
• 16:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Unraveling the Dehydration Crisis

As we age, our bodies become like a well-worn novel with pages gently yellowed and worn. One of the surprising chapters in this story is the diminished urge to drink water. Older adults often find themselves not feeling thirsty, which can lead to drinking less than they need. Coupled with the body’s reduced ability to regulate heat, this becomes an alarming situation, especially during summer months. If it's hot where you are, you'll want to listen up. It's blazing down here in Texas, and the humidity only exacerbates it.

Chronic health conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, and medications such as diuretics further blur the signals the body sends about hydration. Older adults lose more fluids through medications and conditions, leaving their bodies crying out silently for hydration. Understanding this silent struggle helps us grasp why dehydration is behind numerous hospitalizations among seniors.

Then there's the matter of lifestyle and mobility, serving as a roadblock to adequate fluid intake. Many seniors intentionally drink less to dodge frequent trips to the restroom, an understandable choice if mobility is an issue. Incontinence concerns also play into this choice, meaning seniors might go through extended periods without adequate hydration.

Cognitive issues, such as dementia, add yet another layer to this complex picture. Forgetfulness becomes an uninvited guest at the table, making regular drinking routines hard to remember without reminders. The trifecta of these issues significantly raises the stakes, putting seniors at risk for dehydration, a risk compounded by the normal and abnormal effects of aging.

For older adults, dehydration isn’t simply about sipping a bit of water. The consequences can ripple out, leading to hospital visits and complicating existing health conditions. Dehydrated individuals face additional risks of kidney injuries, confusion, and even urinary tract infections—a condition that presents quite differently in seniors than younger folks.

Recognizing early signs of dehydration can be like reading a language you're still learning. But keen observers can spot dark-colored urine, infrequent trips to the restroom, or more vague signs such as unusual fatigue or dry mouth. Recognizing these can save the day and help you step in before severe dehydration wreaks havoc.

Now let's talk preventive measures, a crucial part of the conversation. One simple step is encouraging frequent fluid intake, even if they claim they're not thirsty. I've seen this first-hand with my husband, a stroke survivor. A bright, appealing Stanley cup has made all the difference for him, and it could for your loved one too. Make hydration appealing by offering flavored waters or juices—anything to make a sip more inviting.

And for goodness’ sake, let's not forget the power of foods like...

Have you ever looked around your home and realized just how much you’ve accumulated over the years? When it’s time to move into assisted living, it’s not about taking everything — it’s about being thoughtful and intentional with what you bring.

This next chapter is all about comfort, safety, and simplicity. You’re creating a space that’s manageable, meaningful, and truly feels like home — not just a smaller version of your current house. It’s an opportunity to surround yourself with the items you love and use the most, while letting go of things that no longer serve you.

Not long ago, someone shared with me a story about their family member's jewelry being stolen in assisted living. This got me thinking about the importance of protecting our valuables. My own mother and her husband are on this journey towards assisted living, and I’ve been reflecting on what truly needs to be left behind. Let’s take a look at the key things you might want to reconsider bringing along to ensure a safe and comfortable transition.

• 00:00 Introduction and Clarifications
• 01:53 Welcome to Aging and Style
• 02:23 Things Not to Bring to Assisted Living
• 03:28 Detailed List of Items to Avoid
• 08:58 Final Thoughts and Personal Advice
• 11:31 Conclusion and Farewell

What You Shouldn't Bring To Assisted Living

First on the list of what to leave behind: big, bulky furniture.

On the surface, this might seem arbitrary, but when downsizing from a house to a cozier living space, every square inch counts. Most people moving into assisted living have some level of mobility issues, which could be aggravated by cramped spaces. Walking aids or wheelchairs require space to maneuver. I recommend looking at the floor plan of the new place and bringing in only those pieces that will fit comfortably within that layout.

Then, there are fire hazards. Items such as hot plates or space heaters fall into this category and should be left behind. These items are generally prohibited within assisted living communities for your safety and the safety of others. Rest assured, the community will ensure your new home is safe and cozy without these potential risks.

Valuables are another category worth a second thought. I'm not insinuating that your things will be stolen, but both personal experience and hearsay remind us that things do disappear. Cases of jewelry theft in assisted living, whether by third parties like caregivers or rare unscrupulous visitors, are not unheard of. My advice? Store those heirlooms, treasures, and large sums of cash in a safety deposit box, or entrust them with a family member.

When it comes to clothes, remember that you’re not packing for a fashion runway. If you haven't worn it since 1985, chances are you won't miss it. Assisted living is an opportunity to downsize and focus on comfort and essentials. Try to pare down your wardrobe, keeping only those items you frequently wear. Remember, closet space is often limited.

Harsh cleaning chemicals are another item on the do-not-pack list. Assisted living comes with the perk of housekeeping services. They provide cleaning products, and they tackle chores like washing sheets and general cleaning, so you don’t have to.

As for gym equipment, while staying fit is crucial, there’s no need to lug your treadmill or indoor bicycle along. Most communities offer gym facilities with exercise rooms and equipment. However, if small items like a yoga mat or set of light weights are part of your daily routine, feel free to bring them along.

Weapons, surprisingly, are sometimes not considered, but this too is a no-go. Regardless of historical or personal significance, weapons should never accompany you to assisted living. It’s safer and wiser to pass them on to a trusted relative or keep them in secure storage.

Lastly, pets—oh yes, our furry friends! While...

When finding suitable senior housing for yourself or a loved one, the journey can seem daunting and filled with unknowns. But if you're in the state of Texas, recent legislative changes promise a safer and more transparent path forward. With the enactment of Senate Bill 1383, the senior placement industry is set to undergo significant shifts towards enhanced oversight and accountability, bringing peace of mind to families navigating these critical life decisions.

As a senior living expert who's been in the trenches for 18+ years, I've seen firsthand the pressing need for these changes. The industry can often feel like the wild west because it lacks uniform standards and checks. But now, with these new regulations, families can breathe a little easier knowing that the people they trust are held to higher standards of integrity and professionalism.

Chapters:

1. 00:45 Understanding Senior Placement Services
2. 01:10 How Senior Placement Agencies Operate
3. 03:40 The Need for Senate Bill 1383
4. 06:31 Key Requirements of Senate Bill 1383
5. 10:23 What This Means for Consumers
6. 13:21 Lori's Personal Stories and Experiences

At the heart of Senate Bill 1383 is the need to protect our most vulnerable population. Why was this necessary? Simply put, not everyone in the senior placement world played by the rules. Before this legislative change, entering the industry was relatively easy, leading to a patchwork of service providers. Although many are motivated by a genuine passion for helping seniors, others joined without a full understanding of the responsibilities involved.

The law requires a criminal background check on anyone involved with seniors and their families. It's crucial that we trust those who are meant to guide us through these pivotal transitions. Additionally, the mandate for liability insurance while it might seem like a no-brainer is sometimes overlooked. This insurance protects not only the families we serve but also the agencies themselves.

Documented proof of a valid license and a community's good standing are now prerequisites for referral agencies, ensuring that the places we recommend meet state standards. I've always emphasized the importance of walking through these spaces, being boots on the ground, and ensuring that they live up to their promises. However, for many, this bill will be a needed push in that direction.

Full disclosure now extends to compensation methods as well. Although placement services are free for families, there's often confusion about how businesses like mine sustain themselves. We receive payment directly from the senior living communities but are obligated to reveal how and why we are compensated. No more guessing games for families trying to understand the process.

The right to discontinue a service without consequence is now enshrined in law. In the past, families frequently found themselves tied to agencies without proper informed consent. This often happened when they mistakenly contacted a national service instead of a local one. Now, any family unhappy with a service can easily transition to another without any strings attached.

Additionally, disclosure requirements mean families must be informed if they're not being presented with every available option. Sometimes families need to be reminded that there might be places we do not recommend due to contractual or quality reasons, but that should never limit their right to explore all their options. The power is now back in the hands of the families.

Lastly, I must say, my agency's been adhering to these best practices even before the legislation required it. But knowing that now everyone must follow the same rigorous standards gives me great comfort. These measures set a precedent for excellence and integrity across the state that should serve as a model elsewhere.

The journey to find the right living...

Have you ever pondered the challenges faced by LGBT seniors when searching for welcoming communities and services? Imagine walking into a new environment with the fear that being true to yourself might not be met with understanding or tolerance. As someone who values inclusivity and acceptance, I've been moved by the stories and efforts to create culturally competent spaces for aging adults in the LGBT community.

I had the pleasure of discussing this very topic with Founding Board Member, Treasurer, and Chairman of the Housing Committee, Robert Emery and Executive Director Dr. Diane Thornton, and their passion for supporting our LGBT seniors is nothing short of contagious.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction and Initial Research
• 01:13 Welcome to Aging and Style Podcast
• 02:00 Discovering the Coalition for Aging LGBT
• 03:55 Meet the Guests: Robert Emery and Dr. Diane Thornton
• 05:34 The Importance of LGBT-Friendly Senior Housing
• 06:32 Challenges Faced by LGBT Seniors
• 08:14 The Coalition's Mission and Impact
• 10:17 Creating Inclusive Senior Communities
• 16:17 Personal Stories and Testimonials
• 24:02 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

Picture this: you’re seeking a welcoming community for your aging mother and her wife. The initial responses from senior residential facilities may be positive, but scratch the surface, and you might find they lack specific programs or awareness needed for LGBT inclusivity. This stark reality prompted the Coalition for Aging LGBT to take action, and they’ve devised innovative measures to improve the landscape for our aging LGBT friends. By instilling cultural competence in senior living facilities across North Texas, they are paving the way for a more inclusive future.

The Coalition for Aging LGBT began with a pivotal moment in 2011—an invitation to a meeting at the Obama White House focused on aging in America. When their founder returned to Dallas, he realized the pressing need to address the unique requirements of the 200,000 LGBT seniors residing in North Texas. Through surveys and personal anecdotes, it became clear that housing was a primary concern for this demographic, motivating the coalition's continuous advocacy for legal and legislative change. They also focus on health issues and financial security.

Their efforts didn't just stop at advocacy; they developed an LGBT Friendly Senior Housing Guide with a rigorous metric system to assess the preparedness of facilities. What stands out is their commitment to education and awareness—training staff at all levels to foster a welcoming environment. This isn't about transforming spaces into exclusive LGBT communities; it's about ensuring everyone feels at home, opening dialogues, and moving from implicit support to explicit acknowledgment and inclusion.

It's vital to understand the microaggressions faced by LGBT seniors, often stemming from unintentional but nevertheless hurtful comments. A classic example is the assumption that being LGBT is a "choice"—a misconception the coalition addresses through their training. The end goal is to create environments where revealing one's identity isn't met with silence or judgment but rather acceptance and support. In this way, LGBT seniors and their family members can enjoy peace of mind about their care and community.

As our conversation concluded, I was filled with hope and determination, recognizing the impact that education, acceptance, and informed dialogue can have on creating inclusive spaces for LGBT seniors. I invite you to reflect on the stories shared and consider how we, as a community, can continue to support LGBT seniors in living their truth in comfort and security.

Thank you for joining this journey towards inclusiveness. If you're inspired and want to know more, think about reaching out to organizations like the Coalition for Aging LGBT or...

What does the real estate market look like in 2025 for seniors who want to sell their homes?

As more senior homeowners consider downsizing or relocating to be closer to family, the real estate market presents both opportunities and challenges. Navigating this transition requires careful planning, a trusted realtor, and a strategy tailored to meet individual needs.

Whether you're contemplating selling your lifetime residence or simply curious about current trends, understanding what lies ahead in 2025 will be instrumental in making informed decisions.

In our latest episode of Aging and Style with Lori Williams, we dive into the complexities of the real estate market for seniors. Joined by Tricia Spurrier, a seasoned realtor with expertise in working with senior clients, we explore the current real estate market's considerations, the impact of market changes, and how seniors can maximize their home equity during this pivotal stage of life.

Understanding the Market Dynamics

The real estate market in 2025 has seen some significant shifts since 2021. Gone are the days of the "crazy hair on fire seller's market" spurred by the pandemic and low-interest rates. Instead, we're experiencing a more stabilized environment, though still a seller's market with increased inventories across regions like the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

The key difference today is inventory levels. Seniors looking to sell now face about two to three months' worth of inventory compared to the meager weeks available in previous years. This means homes may stay on the market longer but are still selling due to the ongoing demand driven by life changes like marriage, divorce, or relocation.

Embracing Buyer Trends

Tricia highlights a demographic shift in today's buyer profile, with the average first-time homebuyer being 38 years old compared to the early twenties seen in past decades. Economic factors and cultural changes contribute to Americans waiting longer to buy homes, but their purchasing decisions are driven by necessity and lifestyle changes, ensuring a steady market for sellers.

Seniors selling their homes have an opportunity to capture this buyer interest, especially when relocating buyers, such as those from other states seeking to be near family, are factored into their strategies.

Real Estate Options for Seniors

One of the most reassuring takeaways from our conversation is the multitude of options available to seniors. Whether it involves placing a home on the MLS or considering an off-market cash offer, working with experienced realtors like Tricia ensures seniors are well-equipped with all the information they need. In some cases, working with trusted investors provides a straightforward and stress-free path, allowing seniors to bypass the traditional listing process altogether.

Seniors often hesitate to contact a realtor due to the fear of being pressured into making quick decisions or undergoing extensive home renovations. Tricia assures us that professional assessments can be done without urgency or obligation, empowering seniors to make comfortable and informed decisions about the sale of their homes.

Navigating Emotional Transitions

Selling a home after several decades encompasses more than financial transactions; it's a deeply personal journey. Emotions run high as homeowners sift through years of memories, and the thought of packing and moving can feel overwhelming. This is where senior-focused real estate services, including specialized movers, make a difference by easing the transition process.

Also, multigenerational living is becoming increasingly popular, with seniors choosing to cohabitate with family members rather than live independently. Whether moving into a dedicated suite within a family home or pooling resources to purchase a new property, this trend...

What if a dog could break through silence, spark healing, and bring peace to the most vulnerable people—just by showing up?

In this episode of Aging in Style with Lori Williams, you’ll hear the incredible story of a nonverbal woman in a senior facility who spoke and sang for the first time after petting a therapy dog. This is just one of many emotional, real-life moments shared by Debbie Piland and Kelly Ray from Canines for Christ Therapy Dog Ministry.

Chapters:

• 00:01:00- Introduction to Canines for Christ
• 00:02:00 - The mission: loving God, loving people, loving dogs
• 00:05:00 - Expanding beyond senior care to crisis response and prisons
• 00:09:30 - Luca the therapy dog and his path to certification
• 00:17:00 - Training, testing, and how any dog can become a therapy dog
• 00:20:00 - Real-life stories of impact and healing
• 00:27:00 - Overcoming fear of dogs through therapy sessions
• 00:34:00 - Volunteer roles and ambassador opportunities

This isn't just about dogs offering comfort—it's a mission rooted in faith, compassion, and powerful connection. From memory care facilities to crisis response scenes like Uvalde, Texas, these dogs (and their handlers) are offering more than presence—they’re changing lives. If you’ve ever wondered how therapy animals really work, or if your dog might have what it takes, this episode is your guide.

Canines for Christ is an international Christian ministry using therapy dogs as vessels of healing, hope, and love. Volunteers visit senior living communities, hospitals, children’s grief centers, crisis sites, and even prisons. With a unique “ministry of presence,” these animals open doors where words often fail, reaching people in emotional and spiritual pain.

Debbie and Kelly share not only their personal journeys but also the training and qualifications involved in becoming a Canines for Christ therapy dog handler. From passing the AKC Canine Good Citizen test to understanding each dog’s temperament and gifts, this episode breaks down what’s truly needed to get involved. You’ll also learn about the diverse programs offered—from reading buddies to junior handlers—and how every visit is tailored to the emotional needs of the setting.

Through touching stories and practical insight, this conversation unveils the beautiful, often unexpected ways dogs connect with people. Whether it’s a child in trauma, a veteran in hospice, or a lonely senior missing their pet, therapy dogs can break barriers, inspire conversation, and even stir memory and song. And with only one chapter currently in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the need for more volunteers is real and growing.

If this story stirred your heart, don’t just listen—get involved. Learn more, donate, or start your journey toward becoming an ambassador with Canines for Christ at k9forchrist.org. You can also visit LoriWilliams-SeniorServices.com to hear more inspiring episodes, and don’t forget to share this one with someone who loves dogs—or needs hope.

Get my new book, 'Surrounded by Love: One's Family Journey Through Stroke Recovery': https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/book

To suggest a topic, be a guest or support the podcast, please email Lori@Loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

For more senior resources and to sign up for the newsletter, please...

On the last week of Stroke Awareness Month, we're diving deep into the emotional journey that families experience when a loved one suffers a stroke. Throughout May, I've been sharing about the profound impact that strokes have had on my family, especially on me as a caregiver to my husband, Mark, who is a four-time stroke survivor.

To start with, let me transport you back to that chilling Christmas night in 2022. I remember driving to the hospital, it was freezing cold, and I was in complete shock and disbelief, praying that Mark would be okay. These immediate feelings of shock and crisis mode are something many families go through.

Chapters:

• 00:59 Personal Stroke Journey
• 01:39 Emotional Impact on Families
• 02:42 Immediate Reactions to a Stroke
• 05:41 Living in Crisis Mode
• 09:42 Role Reversal and Family Dynamics
• 15:06 Long-Term Psychological Effects
• 26:23 Coping Mechanisms and Support for Stroke Survivors and their families
• 31:51 Honoring Joyful Moments
• 34:49 Closing Thoughts and Resources

The initial impact is intense, but it doesn’t end there. Mark didn’t come home for seven months, moving from one hospital to another and then to rehabs. During this time, my life was filled with hypervigilance, always on high alert for fear of falls or seizures. I also share a deeply personal incident where Mark had a massive seizure, an event even more terrifying than the strokes, which left my son and me shaken for months.

The role reversals hit us hard as well. Our son, Chris, had to step into the caregiver role, something that I’m incredibly proud of yet saddened by. It's tough seeing your child taking care of their parent, but Chris has been a rock through it all. We also experienced a shift in my relationship with Mark. As his primary caregiver, our dynamic shifted away from being partners to me being more in a caretaker mode. This shift is common for many families dealing with chronic illnesses.

Long-term psychological effects are real and tough to manage. I experienced chronic anxiety and even PTSD-like symptoms, particularly after Mark’s seizure. Little things would trigger this constant state of anxiety, whether it was a cough sounding off or the fear of another stroke. Depression and grief also crept in when I least expected it. I found myself grieving the man Mark used to be and the life we had planned together, like traveling in an RV across the country or going to Europe. To cope, I’ve sought support from friends and occasionally use medication for anxiety. It’s vital to have an emergency plan. We keep a detailed medication list on the refrigerator, have a grab bag ready for hospital trips, and maintain an A, B, C plan for caregiving.

It gave me peace of mind to have these in place. Educating myself about strokes and connecting with support groups also helped me feel empowered. Yet, amidst all this, it’s crucial to honor the joyful moments. There are still beautiful, small victories to celebrate, like Mark walking up the stairs with the help of a wonderful PT or going for a walk in our neighborhood after two and a half years. These moments, although they may seem small to others, mean the world to us.

Many families are walking similar paths, dealing with the ripple effects of a loved one’s illness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek help, whether it’s through therapy, a support group, or just talking to a friend. Don’t forget to take care of yourself and find something to laugh about each day. Thank you for sticking with me through this month of Stroke Awareness. Please share this episode with friends and family who might be going through the same journey. Follow us on social media, and don’t miss our new episodes every Friday. Until next time, take care, and remember to find the silver lining in every situation.

Get my new book, '

When my husband had his first stroke on Christmas Day 2022, I wasn’t prepared for how much our lives would change. One moment, we were preparing a late dinner; the next, I was rushing him to the hospital. That night marked the beginning of a series of events that would redefine our family's routine and my role as a caregiver.

Since then, I’ve learned a lot about strokes, from prevention to recovery, and how crucial it is to be stroke-smart. Through my personal journey, I hope to share what I’ve learned to help other families avoid some of the mistakes I made and prepare for the challenges of stroke recovery.

Understanding Strokes: What I Wish I Knew

Looking back, I wish I’d known that 80% of strokes are preventable. This is a staggering statistic that continues to resonate with me. If we’d been aware of the risk factors, maybe we could’ve prevented my husband’s strokes. The fact that strokes are the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of long-term disability underscores just how critical it is to be informed.

So, what exactly is a stroke? There are two main types:

1. Ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when a blood clot blocks a vessel in the brain.
2. Hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.

Spotting a Stroke: The B.E. F.A.S.T. Method

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, time is of the essence. The B.E. F.A.S.T. method helps you identify the signs and act quickly:

1. Balance loss
2. Eyesight changes
3. Face drooping
4. Arm weakness
5. Speech difficulty
6. Time to call 911

I made the mistake of driving my husband to the hospital instead of calling 911, which delayed the care he needed. Calling 911 ensures the stroke team is ready when you arrive.

The Long Road to Recovery

Recovery after a stroke isn’t quick, but the brain has an incredible ability to adapt, thanks to neuroplasticity. Through continuous physical, speech, and occupational therapy, my husband has made progress, even two years later. We celebrate every win, no matter how small. If you or your loved one is recovering from a stroke, remember that improvement is possible—even years later.

1. Know the Signs of a Stroke: Balance loss, eyesight changes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and the importance of calling 911 immediately.
2. Prevent 80% of Strokes: Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, quit smoking, stay physically active, and manage health conditions like diabetes and sleep apnea.
3. Understand Stroke Impact: Strokes cause permanent brain damage and can result in a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities.
4. Leverage Neuroplasticity for Recovery: Engage in repeated therapy to help the brain re-route around damaged areas and promote recovery.
5. Support and Community Matter: Simple acts like meal trains and walking the dog significantly ease the burden on families going through medical crises.

Get my new book, 'Surrounded by Love: One's Family Journey Through Stroke Recovery': https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/book

To suggest a topic, be a guest or support the podcast, please email Lori@Loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

For more senior resources and to sign up for the newsletter, please visit: