Senior dehydration is a common health issue that can lead to bigger problems if proper hydration is not made a priority, such as urinary tract infections and low blood pressure. Proper hydration helps to keep the body and vitals regulated. The University of Chicago Medical Center found that 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were among people over 65.
Signs of dehydration include:
•Dry mouth and nose
•Loose and/or dry skin
•Skin “tenting” in the forehead
•Increased tiredness and/or weakness
•Restlessness
•Sudden (acute) confusion
•Concentrated urine
•Dizziness and orthostatic hypotension (standing causes sudden drop in blood pressure, feeling dizzy, and even fainting)
•Increased heart rate
•Loss of appetite
•Constipation
•Nausea and vomiting
What to Offer: Keep a variety of beverages available, particularly if you are easily bored with water. You can also supplement water with water containing foods such as fresh fruits-eg. watermelon, grapes, oranges. Give popsicles, freezies, frozen grapes, sorbet as treats. Offer soups (cold soups) with meals and smoothies as snacks. *Keep water bottles and/or a water cooler available throughout the day.
