Dehydration can cause serious issues at any stage of life. For seniors, their bodies contain less water as they age, making hydration even more important. There are ways to ensure seniors are hydrated, such as working with home care assistance to monitor the situation. Here are a few other tips for preventing dehydration in seniors.

Why Dehydration is Prevalent in Seniors

Changes in their body composition cause seniors to have less water content as they age. This increases their risk of dehydration. In fact, a 2019 study by the UCLA School of Nursing estimated that at least 40% of seniors in community living situations are chronically underhydrated.

Other causes for dehydration might be changes in eating habits. If eating is painful, or they simply don’t have the appetite, the risk of dehydration increases. Additionally, medications may increase the risk of dehydration by causing nausea, or a feeling of fullness, leading to missed meals.

Studies have also shown that seniors cannot regulate their temperature as well as they once did. For active seniors, this can increase the risk of dehydration if they sweat a lot during exercise.

Symptoms of Dehydration

Knowing the warning signs of dehydration is vital for early detection, and adding home care assistance is an excellent way to monitor the signs. It’s also important to understand that even mild dehydration may cause issues. Some common signs and symptoms of dehydration include:

• Change in the color of urine – darker colors indicate possible dehydration
• Change in bathroom usage
• Fatigue or weakness
• Change in mood, such as an increase in irritability
• Dizziness
• Increased headaches
• Dry mouth – this may also be associated with medications
• Inability to focus, or decreased cognitive functioning

Tips for Preventing Dehydration

The simplest way to prevent dehydration is to drink throughout the day. Generally, seniors should drink a third of their body weight in ounces. For instance, a person weighing 180 pounds should drink at least 60 ounces daily. Consult a medical professional if there are concerns about water intake, as some seniors may need to adjust it.

With home care assistance, additional methods of water intake can be introduced throughout the day. For instance, eating a well-balanced diet with foods that have a water content, such as watermelon, lettuce, or soups, might be easier than simply drinking water.

For seniors who dislike plain water, options are available. They can add lemon or purchase an infuser pitcher that allows them to add fruit to their water. Protein shakes or low-sugar sports drinks are also an option for those with an aversion to plain water. Lastly, gentle reminders to intake water during the day will help create habits that benefit seniors and decrease their risk of dehydration.

Working with a supportive team can help loved ones, and seniors creatively increase water intake for better health and well-being. With home care assistance, seniors maintain the freedom to continue living in their homes while ensuring they aren’t at risk for common issues like dehydration.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance in Allen, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX  today. Call (469) 596-6500

HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.

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