Staying hydrated during the hot summer months is a challenge for us all, but it is especially important for the older adults in our lives.
Dehydration occurs when your body doesn’t have enough fluids to carry out its normal functions. It can also happen when you use more fluids than you take in.
Older adults are much more susceptible to dehydration, resulting in problems such as heat injury, seizures, kidney failure, coma, and even death.
Why are Older Adults At Risk for Dehydration?
There are a number of factors that cause our older loved ones to be at risk for dehydration:
- As we age, our bodies are less able to conserve water
- Sense of thirst decreases, so it becomes a less reliable trigger for drinking water
- Older adults may choose not to drink because of the inconvenience of having to go to the bathroom several times a day
- They may choose not to drink because of the embarrassment of incontinence
- Decreased mobility makes it difficult for them to get a drink for themselves, and they don’t want to burden someone else by asking for one
- Certain medications can cause dehydration
- Older adults with dementia may not remember if they drank or not
Signs of Dehydration in Older Adults
Dehydration can be caught early by knowing what to look for. If your older loved one is becoming dehydrated, they may be experiencing the following:
- Weakness, confusion or lethargy
- Dark urine
- Decreased urine output or constipation
- Change in blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Unable to produce sweat or tears
- Skin that doesn’t “bounce back” when pinched
What Can You Do to Prevent Dehydration in Older Adults?
Preventing dehydration is both possible and effective, especially when it’s caught early. Here are ways you can decrease your older adult’s risk of becoming dehydrated:
- Monitor how much time is spent outside. Outdoor picnics/family reunions are enjoyable and great for socialization. Encourage them to experience some of the visit in the shade or air conditioning.
- Remind them to drink. Gentle promptings during and between meals is important.
- Always keep water within reach. If it’s there, they may drink it more frequently. Make it accessible.
- Make it easy. Glasses that are easy to hold, keep beverages cold or hot, as well as features like straws, handles and drinking spouts all make the job of drinking easier. Find out what works best for your older relative.
- Offer a beverage variety. Provide a beverage they will enjoy, without adding too much sugar, salt or calories. Add lemon, work in an occasional juice drink, or even tea or coffee.
- Provide foods that have high water content. Watermelon, strawberries, soup and broccoli are among the foods that can add fluids without having to drink.
There’s so much for older adults to enjoy outside this summer, safely and in moderation. Understand the risks, be aware of the signs, and take the steps to ensure our seniors stay happy, healthy and hydrated.
Advanced Home Health Solutions provides home care and personal care services to seniors in and around Columbus, Ohio. We pride ourselves in being an extension of your family, providing care, comfort and support when you need it, where you need it. To learn more about our services, send us an email, visit our website or contact us at 614-340-9541.
