Reduce the Risk of You Elderly Loved One Becoming Dehydrated This Summer in Ottawa, ON

Uncategorized  |  June 30, 2018

Compared to young adults, aging family members and friends have a greater risk of dehydration. Aging family members and friends are also more susceptible to electrolyte and fluid imbalances, which often result from prescribed medications that have caused a diminished sense of thirst. It is important to keep your loved ones fully hydrated by monitoring their liquid intake through the warmer months when it’s much easier to succumb to dehydration. Consider carefully the following information:

Symptoms of Dehydration

If you know and recognize the most common symptoms of dehydration, you’ll be able to recognize a dehydration problem before it gets too severe. If there is a problem, get help in a timely manner. The list of symptoms that follow are often indicators of dehydration so don’t hesitate to call for help to 911 or a healthcare provider who can offer immediate assistance if these symptoms are present:

• Muscles cramping

• Skin dryness

• Dizziness

• Sudden fatigue

• Urine is a dark color

Keep Fully Hydrated

Encourage staying fully hydrated with plenty of fluids. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water and we need to drink even more fluids throughout very active days and especially on warmer days. There are some people who don’t drink water because of its lack of taste. In that case, you can ask them to try flavored waters or add fruit to their pitcher or glass of drinking water at home. Also, drinking broths, like beef, chicken, or vegetable, will help, but that can depend on personal preference. Another option is to add hydrating fruits and vegetables into daily food options.

Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables

Some hydrating fruits and vegetables are perfect in the summer for seniors, as they contain as much as 80% water, making them a great choice. The list below shows some of the best hydrating fruits and veggies:

• Bell peppers

• Cucumbers

• Tomatoes

• Grapes

• Cantaloupe

• Apples

• Blueberries

• Watermelon

• Oranges

Our professional caregivers, called Comfort Keepers®, can assist your aging family members or friends in your absence. We understand the specific needs for hydration, too, whether in warmer months or at any time of the year. Comfort Keepers® that assist with in-home care are trained to encourage hydration by regularly offering water infused with fruit or other tasty liquids, as well as hydrating foods.

Share This Post: