Dehydration can lead to numerous problems for seniors, such as confusion, physical weakness, falls, UTIs, pneumonia, kidney problems, and bedsores in bedridden people. Let’s discover why seniors are at risk of dehydration and how to spot the warning signs. Then, we’ll explore creative strategies for keeping seniors hydrated and healthy, including opting for in-home care.
Why are seniors prone to dehydration?
As people age, appetite tends to decrease—and so does thirst level. Some medications can also increase dehydration. “When we are older, the signals to our brains which activate the thirst center to make us aware that we are dehydrated diminish. Therefore, we don’t feel thirsty and may not drink the amount of fluids our bodies require,” says Dr. Taimur Habib of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group.
Dementia also places seniors at higher risk of dehydration. They’re less likely to remember to drink, to realize they’re thirsty, or to communicate what they need. One study found that 20–38% of older adults in long-term care facilities are dehydrated; another observed that 37% of older patients admitted to the hospital are dehydrated. Fortunately, elder care services can help seniors avoid these issues.
Signs of Dehydration
Stay alert to these symptoms of dehydration:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Decreased urination
- Darker-colored urine
- Trouble urinating
- Faster breathing or heartbeat
- Dry mouth
- Dry cough or muscle cramps
- Changes in mood, memory, or coordination
Even slight dehydration—a loss of 2% of the body’s fluids—can affect things like mood, memory, and reaction time, says the National Council on Aging (NCOA). Companion care can help spot and address these symptoms promptly.
Drinking enough water can also reduce joint pain, improving the cushioning between the joints. Additionally, it aids in temperature regulation, kidney stone prevention, and heart health.
How much water do seniors need? Try to ensure they’re drinking at least one-third of their weight in fluid ounces every day, says Dr. Habib.
Strategies for Keeping Seniors Hydrated
Seniors may have difficulty drinking a full glass of water at a time—and that’s okay! Encourage sipping smaller amounts of water throughout the day instead. Here are a few ways to ensure seniors are getting those sips consistently.
- Mix a little fruit juice, or sliced fruit, into a glass of water to add flavor and visual appeal. (For diabetic seniors, make sure you’re not adding too much sugar.)
- Offer foods that contain high water content, like soup. Cucumbers, watermelon, apples, grapes, squash, tomatoes, lettuce, and yogurt can also provide a hydration boost. A home care professional can keep this in mind when preparing meals.
- Provide different types of liquids and glasses, as the Alzheimer’s Society encourages. Try herbal tea, vegetable juice, or smoothies, for instance. Seniors might prefer a clear glass, a mug with a particular color, a straw, or a different temperature for their beverages.
- Encourage drinking frequently throughout the day.
- Offer them hydration candy, like Jelly Drops.
- Make sure seniors have consistent help with toileting, if needed.
- For those who are unable (or unwilling) to drink enough water, consider delivering an electrolyte solution via IV. Talk with your loved one’s healthcare provider about in-home hydration therapy.
Quality in-home care can ensure seniors get the hydration they need. An elder care professional will prompt your loved one to sip water regularly, contributing to their overall health. Contact us to speak with a registered nurse about how companion care can support your loved one’s needs.
