Did you realize…approximately 50% of all older adults are chronically under-hydrated, as reported by a new scientific study conducted at UCLA? Not only that, but seniors over age 65 account for the highest category of hospital admissions due to dehydration.
Dehydration can easily sneak up on older adults, who often have a decreased sensation of thirst, who may experience medication side effects that cause hydration problems, or who erroneously think that drinking less will prevent incontinence issues.
Lack of hydration in seniors is exceedingly harmful, increasing the risk for health concerns such as:
Dehydration is often identified by the subsequent symptoms:
Early stages:
Advanced stages:
Even though we often pay more attention to hydration when the temperature is higher, it is crucial for seniors to consume sufficient fluids throughout the year. A straightforward formula to find out exactly how much, on average, an older adult should drink each day is to divide the senior’s body weight by 3, and take in that many ounces of water. To illustrate, if an older adult weighs 180 pounds, she or he would require a minimum of 60 ounces of water every single day.
Try these strategies to ensure the older adults you love remain healthy and hydrated:
The professional in-home caregivers at Midnight Sun Home Care are experienced in creative approaches to help older adults stay hydrated, and in monitoring fluid intake to make certain sufficient fluids are consumed every day. Call us at (907) 677-7890 to learn more about how our top-rated senior care in Anchorage and the surrounding areas can help improve the health of older adults, right in the comfort and familiarity of home.