Guide to Hydration & Senior Health

As temperatures heat up, seniors should be particularly careful about taking steps to prevent dehydration. The elderly are susceptible to dehydration due to a variety of factors. In fact, dehydration is a leading cause of hospitalizations among those over the age of 65. Roseville senior care marks it important that both seniors and their caregivers are aware of the causes and symptoms of dehydration as well as steps they can take to ensure proper hydration.

Why Are the Elderly Prone to Dehydration?

The physiological changes that accompany the aging process increase the risk of dehydration. First, the metabolic rate starts to slow, and our level of physical activity decreases, which means we need fewer calories. As a result, we get less fluid from our solid diet, which normally accounts for approximately half of our daily water requirement. Seniors also have a decreased sense of thirst, so they naturally drink less. The body’s temperature regulation system does not work as efficiently as we get older, making seniors more susceptible to the effects of high temperatures. Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and kidney problems, and medications may also contribute to the risk for dehydration. Acute illnesses involving persistent diarrhea, fever, or vomiting can also trigger dehydration in the elderly.

Symptoms of Dehydration:

In the elderly, dehydration often mimics dementia symptoms, including increased confusion, forgetfulness, irritability, and agitation. Other common signs and symptoms include:

• Fatigue and lethargy

• Headaches

• Muscle cramps

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Decreased urine output or dark urine

• Dry or sticky mucous membranes

• Skin that does not return to its normal position when pinched

• Rapid pulse and respiration

• Low blood pressure

Daily Hydration Requirements:

Fluid requirements can vary depending on the amount of physical activity and environmental factors. As a general rule, seniors should aim for at least 48 to 64 ounces of water per day. This increases anytime there is excess water loss due to sweating or urination.

Tips for Staying Hydrated:

Seniors often find it difficult to drink large amounts of water at a given time. To make things easier, focus on drinking or consuming small amounts of fluids throughout the day. The following are easy methods you can implement to help increase fluid intake:

• Eat more foods that are high in water content, such as lettuce, celery, cauliflower, and melon.

• Keep glasses of water within easy reach on the nightstand and end table to encourage drinking.

• Use a straw. People tend to consume more fluids when drinking through a straw than when sipping from a cup.

• Set a timer to go off several times an hour as a reminder to take several sips of water.

Water is the best option for hydration. If you find the taste of water unpleasant, try adding a small amount of powdered drink mix, a squeeze of lemon, or a slice of fresh cucumber to enhance the flavor.

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