Staying hydrated can be a challenge \u2014 especially for older adults. For several reasons, including a decreased ability to retain water and a less acute sense of thirst, older adults are at a heightened risk for dehydration. If left untreated, dehydration in elderly individuals can lead to more serious issues.<\/p>\n
Here are the signs and symptoms of dehydration in elderly people which you should look out for:<\/p>\n
What is an early sign of dehydration in the elderly? Dry mouth and thirst. This is one of the earliest and most obvious signs that you need more fluids, but many of us ignore it. By the time your mouth is dry, you\u2019re already in a mild state of dehydration, and you\u2019re playing catch-up on your fluid intake. Don\u2019t wait for that thirst sensation. Unless restricted by your doctor, try to maintain a steady intake of fluids as much as possible.<\/p>\n
Other early signs of dehydration can be detected through bodily functions. These include a decrease in urinary output and urine that\u2019s darker than normal. There are other circumstances that could create these symptoms, but you should suspect dehydration as a culprit. The Mayo Clinic<\/a> recommends keeping urine clear or light-colored by increasing your water intake.<\/p>\n While it can have other causes, a headache is a possible sign of dehydration. Much like in the case of a hangover \u2013 which stems from dehydration due to alcohol consumption \u2013 dehydration can cause mild to severe headaches that seem otherwise undiagnosed.<\/p>\n If left untreated, dehydration can become severe enough to cause dizziness, too. Severe dehydration, especially when combined with warm temperatures, puts you at high risk for illnesses such as heatstroke. This can be life-threatening. If this occurs, seek immediate attention for dizziness related to possible severe dehydration.<\/p>\n This symptom may not be as obvious as some other signs of dehydration and often takes longer to manifest. However, chronic constipation could be related to long-term mild dehydration. If your stool is hard, you probably aren\u2019t getting enough fluids. Try drinking more water before asking your doctor for laxatives.<\/p>\n There are several reasons why dehydration can lead to limited mobility. Severe cases of dehydration can result in fatigue and lethargy. It can also lead to muscle weakness, low blood pressure and an increased heart rate. All this \u2013 combined with dizziness \u2013 can make it difficult to walk or even stand for more than a short period. If you experience these signs of dehydration in elderly individuals, or anyone else, it\u2019s important to seek emergency attention. [1]<\/p>\n While the symptoms can progress to serious levels, thankfully, recovery from dehydration in elderly people can be simple if acted on quickly.<\/p>\n If the symptoms of dehydration in elderly patients seem mild, just increase water intake. You can also consider special products designed to replace electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. Many brands of sports drinks that are readily available at your local convenience store would be suitable.<\/p>\n Here are some other tips to help you avoid signs of dehydration in seniors:<\/p>\n Your body needs fluids but not all fluids are equally beneficial. Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and tea, and some sodas can have a dehydrating effect in certain quantities. The same is true for alcohol. So, be mindful of which fluids you\u2019re taking in.<\/p>\n Seniors can have a diminished capacity to recognize thirst, making dehydration in the elderly more of a risk. Some may also have difficulty moving around. Keeping a full bottle of water with you will remind you to drink up each time and means you always have fluids available.<\/p>\n If you take non-mealtime medication three times a day, this will automatically get you three glasses of water. That can make all the difference between elderly dehydration and a healthy, hydrated lifestyle.<\/p>\n Since water is lost through perspiration, this can increase the risk of dehydration in hot and humid weather. Make sure you keep a bottle of water with you when outside in warm weather or during exercise. Be aware that you\u2019ll need to drink additional fluids at regular intervals in these circumstances.<\/p>\n There\u2019s no need to pay for fancy bottled water. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon, lime, or orange to flavor your own water. For variety, try putting some sliced melon or cucumber into a pitcher of water.<\/p>\n Fresh fruit and veggies, along with broth, gelatin snacks, ice pops and Italian ice, contain a lot of water. Alongside regular water intake, these can also help hydrate you.<\/p>\n Consistent hydration is better than flooding your system with a large quantity of water all at once. Try to drink water with every meal and at regular intervals throughout the day. You can even get bottles with water markers to help you keep track of how consistently you\u2019re taking in fluids.<\/p>\n Vomiting and diarrhea can dehydrate you. If you can\u2019t tolerate water during this time, suck on crushed ice or an ice pop. Do not be tempted to avoid drinking water, as this will only make the issues worse.<\/p>\n Either of these methods can help when you\u2019re not up to sitting up and drinking from a glass. They allow you to continue drinking water when you\u2019re feeling unwell or tired.<\/p>\n Independent seniors may need to remind themselves about hydration. Setting alarms at intervals throughout the day can help to avoid elderly dehydration. You can also consider leaving sticky notes around the home to remind you to drink more water.<\/p>\n If you value independent living but want a little extra insurance against the effects of serious dehydration, consider a medical alert system<\/a>. Simply press a button and a professional response team will contact your family and\/or neighbors. If your dehydration is severe, they\u2019ll summon help for you.<\/p>\n Severe dehydration is serious \u2014 even life-threatening. To avoid dehydration, get familiar with the symptoms of dehydration in the elderly, incorporate the tips above into your daily routine and stay healthy and hydrated.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t disregard professional advice, or delay seeking it, because of what you read here.<\/i><\/p>\n This information is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis or treatment; it is provided \u201cas is\u201d without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have specific questions about any medical matter and seek professional attention immediately if you think you or someone in your care may be experiencing a healthcare condition or emergency.<\/i><\/p>\n Sources:<\/b><\/p>\n3. Headache and Dizziness<\/h2>\n
4. Constipation<\/h2>\n
5. Limited Mobility<\/h2>\n
Tips to Prevent Dehydration<\/h2>\n
1. Avoid soda, coffee, tea, and alcohol<\/h3>\n
2. Always keep a water bottle handy<\/h3>\n
3. Drink a full glass of water with any non-mealtime medication<\/h3>\n
4. Replace water lost through environmental factors and exercise<\/h3>\n
5. If you don\u2019t like the taste, add a natural flavor<\/h3>\n
6. Eat foods with higher water content<\/h3>\n
7. Drink regularly throughout the day<\/h3>\n
8. If you start feeling sick, sip water immediately<\/h3>\n
9. Use a straw or squeeze bottle<\/h3>\n
10. Set an alarm or write yourself sticky notes<\/h3>\n
Extra Insurance for Independent Living<\/h2>\n
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