Preventing Dehydration in Senior Citizens
Everyone has a risk of dehydration but senior citizens are especially prone to this condition and also have a harder time recovering. Seniors often forget to drink enough water or drink other sugary beverages assuming this is enough to stay hydrated. Making matters worse is that certain medications and medical problems increase the amount of liquid required to stay healthy.
Medical Conditions Which Cause Dehydration and Symptoms
Anything that causes fluid loss such as diabetes, infections and diarrhea can make dehydration more likely to occur. Certain medications can also be to blame including diuretics and laxatives. Some medications act as diuretics even though that is not their main purpose such as blood pressure medication and antihistamines. Other medications may have diarrhea or vomiting as a side effect and experiencing either of these will cause dehydration. Those undergoing chemotherapy are also susceptible because of their reduced thirst and appetite.
Many seniors don’t get enough water for several reasons including simply not wanting to drink because of lack of thirst or because they don’t want to suffer the difficulties of frequent urination. Disabled elderly persons may not always have access to adequate water and food because they cannot get the items themselves.
The body’s ability to sense thirst and conserve water is also greatly diminished as we age so it is especially important to look for symptoms of dehydration which include dizziness, confusion, dry tongue, fever, leg pain/cramping, tiredness, agitation and in prolonged instances, weight loss.
Importance of Hydration and Ways to Keep Seniors Hydrated
Without proper hydration, kidney failure can become an issue along with urinary tract infections, bladder infections, constipation, kidney stones and poor blood circulation.
Staying hydrated can be difficult especially when the person doesn’t experience thirst regularly, isn’t able to get their own supplies or dislikes drinking water. However, there are things that can be done to help the situation including:
- Make sure that water is easily accessible throughout the house. Keeping bottles of water in each room makes them convenient and acts as a reminder to drink. For wheelchair bound patients this might mean attaching some sort of water bottle to the chair in a pouch or pocket.
- If a person doesn’t like to drink straight water then adding lemon or lime can help or offer flavored waters. Green tea can also be used in place of some water but be aware of the added caffeine. Broth can also be sipped throughout the day.
- Certain fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelon and celery are good for hydration and are generally healthy additions to any diet.
- Sports drinks are also an option but limit sodas and alcoholic beverages.
Another way to help elderly patients stay hydrated and healthy is with an in home care worker. Comfort Keepers of Santa Clarita, California provides trained home workers who can help with things like meal preparation and reminders to drink fluids and to take medication when needed. Santa Clarita residents can visit their website to find out more about their services and get a free consultation.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
