Dangers of dehydration in older people
Adequate fluid is essential to allow the body to sweat to regulate temperature, maintain good levels of blood pressure and eliminate bodily waste. If someone suffers from dehydration, not only will it affect the above functions, but can also lead to delirium, infections and physical weakness.
What makes older people most susceptible to dehydration?
- Medicines, particularly if taken in combination, can affect hydration levels
- As we age, our thirst decreases. Aso, it can be more of an effort to get up to get a drink if mobility is an issue
- Kidney function reduces as we get older, which means we are unable to hold as much fluid in our bodies as when we were younger
- Vomiting and diarrhoea can cause elderly dehydration
How to monitor hydration levels
- Check your weight regularly helps to keep track of hydration levels. Weigh yourself every morning and if you’ve lost two pounds or more, you may be dehydrated
- Pull the skin on the back of your hand. If it doesn’t return to normal almost immediately, you are dehydrated
Signs of dehydration may include:
- Confusion
- Immobility
- Thirst
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Sunken eyes
- Inability to sweat
- Inability to produce tears
- Rapid heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Low urine output
- Dark, strong smelling urine
- Constipation
How to stay hydrated
- Diet is very important. Eat fruits, soups and vegetables, which are all water-based
- Drink frequently, whether that’s water, coffee or tea
- The larger the person, the more fluid they need to drink
- If someone sweats a great deal, they should drink more
- Keep water by the bed
