Seniors Need to be Aware of Their Fluid Intake

Now that we are approaching the summer months and outside temperatures will begin to rise, it is important for seniors to stay hydrated.  Dehydration can cause serious problems, and since older adults can become dehydrated even when it is not hot outside, they need to remember to make a conscious effort to increase their fluid intake. 

There are several reasons why the elderly are more at risk for dehydration including the fact that the body’s mechanisms meant to protect us from dehydration do not work as well as we age. This means older adults often experience diminished thirst sensations that may lead to reduced fluid consumption or suffer from conditions such as incontinence that can increase water loss.  Certain medications commonly prescribed to seniors to treat high blood pressure or heart failure can also cause dehydration.  Other things that can lead to dehydration include memory problems that result in someone forgetting to drink or mobility problems that make it hard for a person to get something to drink. 

Experts suggest that one way to help prevent dehydration is to set up a schedule to drink  something several times a day and that it is better to offer fluids more frequently than expecting a senior to drink a large amount at one time.  The general recommendation is for older adults to consume at least 57.5 fluid ounces or 7.1 cups during a 24 hour period.  Just keep in mind that alcohol can be dehydrating and have a definite diuretic effect on people. 

At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our community is designed to see to the needs of our residents.  Included in the many services and amenities we provide are daily nutritional meals served in the Clubhouse or restaurant-style in our attractive dining room.  We feel that good food (and drink) is one of the great joys of living, especially when enjoyed in community.  Please visit our website to learn more about our independent living, assisted living, and memory care options.

  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options.  Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve.  Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself the area’s finest independent and assisted living.

Source: betterhealthwhileaging.net/qa-how-to-prevent-diagnose-treat-dehydration-aging-adults/