Physiologic changes in the body related to the aging process make elderly people especially prone to dehydration. This is due, in part because the aging brain isn’t able to effectively determine how much water the body needs. Additionally, with age, an elderly person’s thirst response diminishes, which means he or she may not recognize the need to drink more.
Those at highest risk for dehydration include seniors who live alone, people who are admitted to the hospital, those recovering from major surgery, disabled people, people with arthritis, Alzheimer’s patients, and patients who live in nursing homes.
Early recognition of dehydration is a priority and the key to a speedy recovery. Signs and symptoms include irritability, confusion, rapid heart rate, decreased urine output, dry skin, poor skin turgor, constipation, fecal impaction, decreased blood pressure, and dizziness. In fact, dizziness caused by dehydration, especially when standing suddenly, is often a contributing factor to falls in the elderly population. Fever is a common consequence of dehydration, but can also be a cause. Prolonged severe dehydration can lead to a multitude of serious medical problems, which include coma, organ failure and eventually death.
If you are elderly or caring for someone who is, prevention is the first step in treating this condition. Remember that dehydration can occur in any weather, but is commonly associated with warmer temperatures. If you or your patient must go outdoors, do so in the earlier hours of the morning or later in the evening. Make sure that adequate fluids are readily available and monitor elderly patients to make sure they are drinking what you are giving them. If you enjoy exercising, be sure to drink twice as much water than you normally would, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Adequate fluid intake is essential as part of preventative health care. Make sure you or your patient always have a cool beverage at arm’s reach. Many people balk at drinking water. Water is important, but not the only way to stay hydrated. Clear broths, fruit juices, jello, lemonade, and Crystal Light are just a few of the creative alternatives to water. Remember though, every effort should be made to drink at least 8 ounce glasses of water per day.
If you know an elderly person who lives alone, try to make sure someone is nearby to make routine safely checks in the home, especially during a heat wave. If this is not possible, develop a buddy system with another person and make it a habit to exchange daily check-in calls.
Sometimes, seniors drink less because it is difficult for them to get to the restroom. Try purchasing a commode chair and placing it nearby to where you or your patient usually sits. Use a raised toilet seat on the commode to reduce the risk of falls.
Treatment of many illnesses begins with prevention. Dehydration is no exception. Following these tips will help you or your patient prevent dehydration from becoming a life-threatening event.
Tags: caregiving, diet, emergency tips, Healthcare, seniors, summer, travel
Dehydration is indeed a problem with elderly people who live alone or even those in Nursing homes.It is always best to prevent it for the safety and well-being of your loved one.
Comment by ladolceliving — April 14, 2010 @ 6:54 pm