Six Ways to Help Seniors From Dehydration

Senior care  |  October 16, 2021

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and to keep critical body functions suitable. This can be a dare for some seniors because of some body changes that happen with age. Seniors may have a diminished capacity to sense thirst, notice differences in body temperature and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect.

Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, high heart rate, muscle weakness and fatigue. The effects of dehydration are severe, seniors need to be vigilant about taking sufficient water throughout the day. Seniors who got dehydrated should address their symptoms and issues with their doctor before making any changes to their fluid intake.

Older adults looking for ways to stay hydrated should try these six tips:

1. Talk to a doctor – not only can a healthcare professional provide a suggestion about how much water someone demands, but also contribute guidance and tips on handling water intake.
2. Create a schedule – it can be challenging to drink a lot of water in one sitting. However, creating a plan for regular activity, physician-suggested intake levels and the choices of the senior can helps to keep hydration on a routine.
3. Eat water-rich foods – Eating cucumbers, watermelon, apples and other water-rich fruits can benefit seniors to get more fluids at mealtimes. The broth is also a good choice.
4. Make water more interesting – For those that don’t enjoy drinking water, combining small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great option…particularly on warm days!
5. Reduce water loss – extreme sweating can contribute to dehydration – keeping inside temperatures at a moderate level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can support seniors to stay hydrated.
6. Don’t wait for get thirst – oftentimes, seniors feel thirsty, they may already be dehydrated.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Comfort Keepers can help seniors who are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can give transportation to healthcare appointments, aid with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals, and to elevate the spirits of families every day.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact Comfort Keepers Cambridge today itself.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake.” Web. 2016.

FamilyDoctor.org. “Hydration: Why It’s So Important.” Web. 2017.

Mayo Clinic. “Dehydration.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “What is Dehydration? What Causes It?” Web. 2019

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