10 Oct Hydration in the Elderly | How to help them?
….When the hot season arrives with its rays of sun, we must not forget to drink water constantly, as staying hydrated is essential for maintaining our energy and health. While we take care of ourselves, we must also prioritize hydration in the elderly, as their health and nutrition are incredibly important during this time.
These days when the heat is so strong, providing them with serums and glasses of water is essential for them. In addition, the consumption of fruits and vegetables is not only rich in vitamins but is also a way to keep us hydrated. Be alert to any symptoms of dehydration such as:
Dry Mouth and Thirst: Look for a dry or sticky mouth and a lack of thirst.
Changes in Urine: Dark yellow urine or infrequent urination can be indicators.
Fatigue or Weakness: Increased tiredness or general weakness may suggest dehydration.
Confusion or Dizziness: Mental confusion, disorientation, or lightheadedness can be symptoms.
Dry Skin: Check for skin that is less elastic or feels dry to the touch.
Headaches: Frequent or unusual headaches can signal dehydration.
Rapid Heart Rate or Breathing: An elevated heart rate or increased breathing can also be signs.
Constipation: Difficulty in bowel movements may indicate inadequate fluid intake.
Constantly drinking water will support hydration in the elderly, keeping them healthy, active, and vibrant.
Remember that, besides alcohol and coffee, other factors and substances can also cause dehydration in older adults:
- Caffeinated Teas: Certain teas, particularly black and green varieties, may have diuretic effects similar to those of coffee.
- Sodium-rich foods: High salt intake can lead to increased thirst and fluid loss.
- Certain Medications: Diuretics and some antihistamines can cause increased urination and fluid depletion.
- Hot Weather: Elevated temperatures can result in increased perspiration and fluid loss, especially if adequate hydration is not maintained.
- Illness: Conditions such as fever, diarrhoea, or vomiting can rapidly diminish fluid levels.
- Poor Dietary Choices: Inadequate fluid intake from meals, especially if dry or processed foods are consumed, can exacerbate dehydration.
- Limited Access to Water: Mobility issues or forgetfulness may hinder the ability to consume sufficient fluids.
- Chronic Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can impact hydration levels.
Another important point is not to expose our lovely elderly to the sun.
Since in summer the sun rays are usually very strong, these can cause dehydration. If we suddenly see our grandparents disoriented, very tired and with a headache, it may be another sign of dehydration and the most advisable thing is to give them water or some serum immediately.
Wearing comfortable and fresh clothing, such as breathable fabrics like:
- Cotton: Soft and breathable, ideal for everyday wear.
- Linen: Lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for warm weather.
- Bamboo: Naturally breathable and antimicrobial.
In addition, consuming delicious fresh food like water gelatin, can help make the summer not so hot for them. An important fact is that we should not wait for our elderly to be thirsty, since thirst is an indicator that the body needs water.
And speaking of being thirsty! The older we get, the less we feel like drinking water, and we gradually lose the need to drink liquids to hydrate ourselves. This is a normal symptom as we age. The body’s thirst mechanism becomes less sensitive. This makes older adults less aware of their need for fluids.
That is why we should always be attentive to our seniors; that they have glasses of water in places where they usually are, that they do not look tired or disoriented, and if they fall asleep on the sofa, let’s give them another glass of water because it can also be dehydration. We should carefully observe their behavior, because in people who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s, being dehydrated can alter their symptoms.
Summer heat is something we can’t avoid, but with proper hydration in the elderly, dehydration is something we can prevent.
Down below, we’ll give you some ideas of activities you can do with your grandparents on these hot days:
- Morning walk in the park: since seniors love to get up early, you can take advantage of that time and before the sun gets too hot, go for a short walk in the park or garden. Remember to bring your bottles of fresh water.
- Picnic: and if we already have a park nearby, why not have a picnic? or, an outdoor activity, without physical effort and you can eat delicious snacks like fruit and gelatine, ideal for this heat.
- Board games: In the comfort of our home and under a fan, we can dust off our board games and have fun rounds not only with our grandparents but also with the rest of our family. Board games are friendly for all ages.
- Home cinema: An activity that both children and adults can enjoy; Choose a movie together, prepare popcorn, gelatin, cold drinks, and some chocolates. You can wait for the sun going down at night and watch the movie in the patio, under the stars. Choose something that everyone might like, a fun movie that our elderly find enjoyable.
- Drawing & painting: a pleasant afternoon where, together with our seniors, we can activate that creative side. Paint, crayons, markers, colors. Any material is good to be able to create what our minds can imagine.
Care with love…
Every activity that we have with our dear older adult will be very important not only for them to have fun, but also for them to feel the love that we have for them.
We should not only take care of our grandparents; health, but also their emotions and remind them that they are very loved beings. And in these days of extreme heat where we are more prone to dehydration or getting sick, let’s take extra care of our grandparents and the little ones in the home as well.
Remember, fresh clothes, fruit, gelatin, and lots of water so that we can stay safe and healthy during the summer. Also, don’t; forget sunscreen! Our elderly’s skin is even more sensitive and we must take care of them with lots of love.