It may seem odd to worry about dehydration in seniors, particularly since they engage in fewer exercise activities. But the reality is, as many as 31% of older adults are diagnosed with dehydration, due in part to the normal aging process. And the benefits of helping seniors stay hydrated are monumental: less falls, better orthopedic rehabilitation, even a reduced risk of bladder cancer.
At Heaven at Home, we strive to educate clients on a variety of senior health issues and how partnering with our home care services can help keep seniors happy and healthy at home. Senior loved ones can avoid dehydration if you help them by noticing these early warning signs:
- Feeling thirsty
- Reduction in urine output
- Dry, sticky mouth
Taking care of helping a senior to become hydrated once warning signs of dehydration have been spotted is important because increased dehydration can lead to:
- Anxiety or confusion
- Excessive sleepiness
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Hot, dry skin – or, cold, clammy skin
- And eventually, loss of consciousness
It’s very important during the warmer summer weather to make sure seniors are drinking a good amount of clear, uncarbonated, non-alcoholic liquids throughout the day – with plain water being the most important – and contact the physician immediately if dehydration is suspected.
Do you have a senior loved one who could use care at home in Denton, TX or the surrounding area? Contact the Heaven at Home Senior Care team, providers of top-rated Denton home health, to learn more about the home care services we offer and how we can help your family.