Q: My mother recently fainted, and we learned it was due to dehydration. How can we encourage her to drink more water?
A: Older adults are at higher risk for dehydration because of several reasons. Yet with the summer heat, it is more important than ever to ensure we are all staying hydrated and healthy.
As we age, normal changes in the body affect our ability to recognize dehydration and maintain adequate fluid levels. The body becomes less efficient at retaining water, which is one reason that up to 40 percent of people over the age of 65 experience chronic dehydration.
Normally, we expect our bodies to signal when we are thirsty and need to drink more fluids. However, as we get older, the sensation of thirst decreases, even though the need for water remains the same.
Chronic medical conditions and certain medications can also affect the body’s ability to regulate fluids. In addition, kidney function may naturally decline with age, leading to more frequent urination and increased fluid loss.
Unfortunately, the unintended consequence of not taking in enough fluids can be very dangerous, as you witnessed when your mother fainted.
To help prevent dehydration, encourage her to keep water within reach. Since she may not recognize her thirst, establish a routine and a schedule of drinking water. A marked water bottle that tracks daily intake can also serve as a useful reminder to drink throughout the day.
If she finds the taste of water unappealing, offer to add fruit, mint, or low-sugar flavored powders.
Water is not the only way to increase fluid intake. Consider adding water-rich foods to her diet. Cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, celery, and zucchini, for example, are all over 90 percent water. Add soups and broths to meals.
If your mother has some memory impairment, she may need additional support. Rather than relying on her to keep track, prepare the water-rich foods and bring her water with gentle reminders to make it easier for her.
Be aware of signs of dehydration, including darker urine, dizziness, fatigue or confusion, dry mouth, or weakness. If you notice these signs, encourage water immediately, and seek medical attention if they do not improve.
Pay attention to the heat as well this summer. Older adults are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Add fans, encourage loose-fitting and breathable clothing, and use cooling centers, including malls, libraries, and senior centers if needed.
Monitoring something as simple as hydration can become an ongoing responsibility. While it is not always easy, establishing small, consistent routines and providing gentle reminders can go a long way toward preventing dehydration and supporting your loved one’s health and well-being.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
