According to the Mayo Clinic, the
elderly are among one of the groups of people that are more susceptible to
dehydration. They cite the following
reasons for this including the fact that a senior’s ability to conserve water
is lessened while at the same time they experience a diminished sense of
thirst. Furthermore, a senior’s capacity
to respond to changes in temperature is reduced and many do not adept well to
extremely hot or cold weather. These
issues are often compounded by the prevalence of chronic diseases such as
diabetes, heart failure, dementia and kidney problems. There are even certain medications that can contribute
to the elderly being more susceptible to dehydration.
As we age our kidneys’ lose some of
their ability to concentrate urine and retain water during episodes of fluid
deprivation. Also a reduced sensation of
thirst means that many seniors forget to drink enough fluids throughout the
day. Moreover disorders such as Parkinson’s
disease and dementia can create swallowing problems that make it more difficult
to drink. Other factors that can
contribute to dehydration include a decrease in mobility and incontinence.
The dangers of dehydration are many and
often results in emergency visits and hospitalization and have even been
associated with increased mortality rates in the elderly. Additionally it is related to a range of
health issues such as falling, constipation, and impaired cognition and
confusion.
So what steps should you take to
ensure you or your loved one stays hydrated?
Experts advise that every time you take a pill to drink a full glass of
water. Also have healthy fluids readily
available throughout the day and avoid sugar-laden drinks as well as salty
foods.
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 Arrowhead represents the best in senior living
with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God,
valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a
true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience
firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.
Sources:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/basics/risk-factors/con-20030056
aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-7-18-elderly-dehydration/
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