Dehydration is a serious concern for older adults, especially when the summer heatwaves hit!

As we age, our bodies become less efficient at conserving water and our sense of thirst decreases, which can increase the risk of dehydration. This makes older adults particularly vulnerable throughout the summer months, so it’s important to recognise the signs of dehydration and take proactive steps for prevention, which is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of ourselves and our older loved ones.

Recognising the Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration is dangerous as it can often go unnoticed until it becomes too severe. Therefore, being able to spot the signs early is crucial. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms to watch out for in older adults:

Dry Mouth and Throat: One of the most immediate and noticeable signs of dehydration is a dry mouth and throat. If your older loved one is frequently licking their lips or asking for water, this is a sign that they are dehydrated.

Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration can cause significant fatigue and a general sense of weakness. Look out for older relatives feeling unusually tired or lethargic even after adequate rest, especially during warmer days.

Confusion and Dizziness: When we are dehydrated, it affects our cognitive function which can lead to confusion, dizziness or light-headedness. These symptoms are particularly dangerous for your older loved one as the risk of falls becomes significantly increased.

Decreased Urination: Reduced frequency of urination can be a sign that the body is conserving water due to dehydration. Older adults should be encouraged to monitor their bathroom habits and report to you if they notice they’re not going as often as they usually would.

Dry Skin and Sunken Eyes: Dehydrated skin may appear dry, less elastic and in more severe cases, older adults might have sunken eyes. You can gently pinch the skin to see how quickly it returns to its normal position as a quick test for dehydration.

Preventing Dehydration in Seniors

Preventing dehydration requires a proactive approach, so here are some practical tips to help you ensure that you and your loved ones remain adequately hydrated:

Encourage Regular Fluid Intake: You should encourage your loved one to drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty. They should aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, however be cautious that individual needs can vary.

Offer Hydrating Foods: Try to incorporate hydrating foods into their diet. Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries that have a high water content can help maintain levels of hydration.

Create a Schedule: It’s a good idea to produce a routine so your older loved one knows to drink water at specific times throughout the day, such as after waking up, with each meal, and before bedtime.

Make Water Easily Accessible: It’s important to make sure that water is always within their reach. Lightweight, easy-to-handle water bottles or cups that are easy for older adults to manage are the best option!

Flavour the Water: Sometimes plain water can be boring and unappealing. You can add a slice of lemon, lime or a splash of fruit juice to make water more flavourful and exciting to encourage more frequent drinking.

Monitor Fluid Intake: You should always keep track of how much water your older loved one is drinking each day and ensure you assist them by gently reminding them to drink water and observing this intake.

Avoid Diuretics: Try to remind them to limit the consumption of diuretic beverages such as coffee, tea, and alcohol, as these can increase their need to go to the toilet more often, contributing to dehydration in the long run.

Consider Health Conditions and Medications: Be aware of any medical conditions or medications that might affect a person’s hydration levels. Some medications can have a diuretic effect, so it’s a good idea to check the label for any side effects, or even consult with healthcare providers for personalised advice.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice severe signs of dehydration in your older loved one such as confusion, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure or fainting, seek medical attention immediately. Chronic dehydration can lead to more severe health issues including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and heat stroke especially as we get older. Therefore, knowing when to get medical help is vital to protect their safety and well-being.

Maintaining proper hydration is vital for older adults’ health and well-being. By being able to recognise the signs of dehydration and implementing preventive measures, you can help your loved ones to stay healthy and hydrated. Make sure to encourage regular fluid intake, offer hydrating foods and create a supportive environment to ensure they get the support they need. Remember, staying proactive and attentive to their hydration needs can significantly improve their quality of life!