How to Reduce the Risk of Dehydration of Seniors In Victoria, BC

Uncategorized  |  June 29, 2018

Aging family members and friends seem to be more prone to the risk of dehydration and are more likely to suffer from electrolyte and fluid imbalances, as a result of a reduced sense of thirst from prescribed medications.

Compared to the younger population, our aging family members and friends have a higher risk of dehydration. They can also be more susceptible to electrolyte and fluid imbalances, typically because some prescribed medications create a diminished sense of thirst. Increase the liquid intake of your loved ones through warmer months, so they don’t succumb to dehydration. Please read the following:

Dehydration

When you recognize symptoms of dehydration, you can take action before a loved one has a severe dehydration problem. If a problem does present itself, get medical help in a timely manner. This list of indicators may help you recognize dehydration. Call 911, your doctor or any healthcare provider that can offer immediate assistance if these symptoms are visible:

• Muscles cramping

• Skin dryness

• Dizziness

• Sudden sleepiness

• Urine is dark in color

Stay Hydrated

Encourage your older family and friends to drink plenty of liquids so they stay fully hydrated. With our bodies composed of at least 60% water, we have to drink plenty of fluids each day, but especially on warm days. Some people just don’t like drinking water since it has no taste, but they might drink more if you offer flavored waters instead. One solution is to add fruit to a pitcher of drinking water at home and let it naturally sweeten the water. Broths, such as beef, chicken, or vegetable, are fine, as well, but it depends on personal preference. Another option for those refusing enough liquids is to add more portions of hydrating fruits and vegetables into daily meals.

Hydrating Fruits & Vegetables

The following hydrating fruits and vegetables are a perfect choice in warm weather for seniors because they can contain as much as 80% water. Here are some of the best hydrating fruits and veggies:

• Bell peppers

• Tomatoes

• Cucumbers

• Grapes

• Apples

• Blueberries

• Watermelon

• Cantaloupe

• Oranges

Naturally, sometimes we’re not able to be there for our aging loved ones around the clock, but Comfort Keepers® will be available to assist anytime you can’t be there. We understand adult hydration needs, in warm months, and at any time of year. Our Comfort Keepers® are able to help your aging family members or friends in your absence and are trained to encourage hydration by offering water, delicious fruit-infused water or other preferred liquids, as well as hydrating foods.

Call today for additional information. Comfort Keepers of Victoria can provide a variety of services, as well as ample hydration to the seniors you love. Feel free to ask about all of our services that can be of help when caring for your older loved ones.

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