It can get very hot outside in the summer, and it is important to make sure you are drinking enough fluids. Dehydration can be harmful to people of all ages, but it is especially dangerous and common in the elderly. Because our bodies need water to regulate the temperature, eliminate waste, and maintain blood pressure, we can quickly become ill if we do not stay hydrated. Dehydration often occurs quickly and can harm those affected before they can rehydrate. To make sure you are able to take care of your loved one, here are seven signs of dehydration in seniors and the risks associated with it.
Common Causes of Dehydration
Loss of body fluids and inadequate intake of water are the main causes of dehydration. Many healthy people tend to neglect drinking water due to their busy schedules and are often unaware that they are dehydrated. Although they hardly feel the effects, many people have a hard time remembering to drink or hydrate water. For some, dementia can cause them to forget to drink water frequently, while others who suffer from diabetes have difficulty urinating frequently. There are many instances where the elderly are unable to drink enough water. However, it is important to note that they have a hard time recovering from dehydration, so it is best to prevent it or watch for symptoms before they get worse.
Signs and Symptoms
Here are seven signs or symptoms you can watch for to prevent dehydration.
- Thirst
- Dark urine
- Muscle Weakness
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Constipation
The easiest thing you can do is to check whether your loved one is thirsty or not. It is advisable not to ignore thirst, as it can quickly turn into dehydration if not treated. If you are caring for an elderly loved one, it is imperative that you watch out for severe dehydration, which can have serious harmful consequences.
Health Risks and Prevention
Aging leads to a decrease in the amount of water in our bodies. This means that the elderly have less water in their bodies than healthy, young adults. Especially when combined with a health problem like diabetes, it is important to stay hydrated. People diagnosed with conditions like kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, and adrenal disease are more likely to be dehydrated, which can lead to seizures, heat stroke, and even death. So how can we prevent dehydration? It’s important to educate our loved ones about why they need to stay hydrated and encourage them to take small sips of water throughout the day. Eating foods with high water content and avoiding alcohol and coffee are also helpful. Finally, encourage them to check the weather before they leave the house to make sure they are not outside in extremely hot temperatures.
Our Retirement Community Offers a Comprehensive Wellness Program
If your loved one needs full-time care or simply needs a community to look out for them, we offer three senior living options that you can choose from. The community also offers a comprehensive wellness program, Dimensions Health & Wellness, which promotes healthy living for the elderly, as well as a wide range of services tailored to your interests. Schedule a tour with us today to learn more.
