Seniors at Higher Risk of Dehydration

Although fall is just around the corner, it is important for seniors to stay hydrated no matter what the weather is.  Dehydration can cause serious problems, and since older adults can become dehydrated even when it is not hot outside, they need to remember to make a conscious effort to increase their fluid intake. 

There are several reasons why the elderly are more at risk for dehydration including the fact that the body’s mechanisms meant to protect us from dehydration do not work as well as we age.  This means older adults often experience diminished thirst sensations that may lead to reduced fluid consumption or suffer from conditions such as incontinence that can increase water loss.  Certain medications commonly prescribed to seniors to treat high blood pressure or heart failure can also cause dehydration.  Other things that can lead to dehydration include memory problems that result in someone forgetting to drink or mobility problems that make it hard for a person to get something to drink. 

Experts suggest that one way to help prevent dehydration is to set up a schedule to drink  something several times a day and that it is better to offer fluids more frequently than expecting a senior to drink a large amount at one time.  The general recommendation is for older adults to consume at least 57.5 fluid ounces or 7.1 cups during a 24 hour period.  Just keep in mind that alcohol can be dehydrating and have a definite diuretic effect on people. 

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our community is designed to see to the needs of our residents.   Included in the many services and amenities we provide, our residents are served daily nutritional meals restaurant-style in our attractive dining room.  We feel that food (and drink) is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed in community.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.
  
MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living in West Des Moines.


Source: betterhealthwhileaging.net/qa-how-to-prevent-diagnose-treat-dehydration-aging-adults/

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