Dehydration

Dehydration among older adults is a hidden and dangerous problem.  What is dehydration?  It occurs when excessive loss of water disrupts normal body functions.  For older people, it happens fast and can be deadly.  

Non-specific symptoms of dehydration include:

·       Fatigue

·       Confusion

·       Irritability

·       Dizziness

·       Disorientation

Older adults should drink at least 64 ounces of water daily to remain hydrated, essential for keeping the mind and body working.  I recommend buying a pitcher or water receptacle, filling it in the morning, and sip water throughout the day.  I have two 32 oz. containers and I drink the contents of one by noon and the other by 7:00 pm.  Some people prefer to buy a half-gallon jar and drink from that all day long and throughout the evening.  Many older adults have water jugs they used while hospitalized and then brought them home.  This is a great strategy, as unless they fill up a jug and sip all day long, they will forget about drinking water.  Having the container nearby is a constant reminder to drink throughout the day. Whatever the method, DRINK!

Older adults have diminished thirst cues.  This is a normal part of aging due to cognitive changes in the hypothalamus.  Thirst receptors in the brain do not tell seniors, “Hey, I’m thirsty” until it is too late.  Often, by that time, the person is already dizzy or confused.  Also, people often mistake thirst for hunger.  Instead of drinking water, they eat! 

People have also told me that they don’t want to drink water because it causes them to use the toilet too many times.  This is especially problematic for women with mobility issues who have difficulty getting up and down off the toilet. I have found women who deliberately withhold water [and liquids in general] to reduce the number of times they use the toilet and that is a dangerous practice. 

I never recommend “nagging” older adults about water intake.  Caregivers should take a positive approach to encourage drinking, such as pouring the water into a glass and offering it as a beverage.  Have straws handy to facilitate drinking and take a proactive approach such as, “Here, I poured some water for you.”  When rebuffed, it is recommended to remind older people that we love them and want them to remain in optimum health.