Dehydration can affect anyone, but older adults are particularly vulnerable. Discover the common causes of dehydration in the elderly.
Dehydration is a common issue during hot summers that can affect people of all ages. However, older adults are at a higher risk of dehydration due to natural changes in their bodies as they age. It is essential to drink approximately eight glasses of water daily to regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, and maintain overall health. Failure to consume an adequate amount of water can lead to various problems. Learn about the causes of dehydration in older adults and how to assist them.
What is dehydration?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, resulting in an insufficient amount of water and other essential fluids needed for normal bodily functions. This condition can be caused by inadequate water intake, excessive loss of water, or a combination of both.
![An elderly woman with dehydration problem An elderly woman with dehydration problem](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2021/07/26120709/elderly-care-1-370x207.jpg)
What are the symptoms of dehydration?
Some common symptoms of dehydration include:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth and dry skin
- Decreased urine output or dark-colored urine
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Confusion or cognitive impairment
- Rapid heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Sunken eyes
Why is dehydration more common in the elderly?
High temperatures increase the risk of dehydration. However, older adults are 20 to 30 percent more likely to experience dehydration due to impaired thirst mechanisms, immobility, diabetes, and kidney disease, according to research published in StatPearls in 2022.
Several factors contribute to dehydration in older adults:
1. Decreased thirst sensation
As people age, their sense of thirst decreases, leading to inadequate fluid intake even when the body requires fluids for proper functioning.
2. Reduced kidney function
Aging can impact kidney function, making them less efficient at conserving water, resulting in increased water loss through urination.
3. Chronic illnesses
Many older adults have chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease that can disrupt fluid balance and increase dehydration risk.
4. Medications
Some medications taken by older adults, such as diuretics, laxatives, antihypertensives, certain antidepressants, and antipsychotics, can increase fluid loss and contribute to dehydration.
5. Mobility issues
Physical limitations and mobility problems can make it challenging for older adults to access fluids regularly, leading to reduced fluid intake.
![Fruit juices to prevent dehydration in older adults Fruit juices to prevent dehydration in older adults](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/02/06192100/juice-370x207.jpg)
How to treat dehydration in older adults?
Managing dehydration in older adults involves the following steps:
1. Increase fluid intake
Encourage them to drink more water and offer alternative hydrating fluids like herbal teas, broths, and oral rehydration solutions if plain water is unappealing.
2. Monitor and adjust medications
Review the medications older adults are taking with a doctor to adjust dosages or switch to alternatives that have a lower dehydration risk.
3. Use hydrating foods
Incorporate water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables into their diet and reduce salt intake to prevent dehydration.
4. Intravenous fluids
If other steps fail, seek medical assistance. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary to quickly replenish fluid levels.
How to prevent dehydration in older adults?
Preventing dehydration in older adults can be achieved through the following strategies:
- Set reminders for regular fluid intake throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
- Offer a variety of hydrating beverages like water, milk, and low-sugar juices to make hydration more appealing.
- Keep water readily accessible to encourage regular intake.
- Promote a diet rich in hydrating foods.
Dehydration can impact anyone, but older adults are more susceptible. Encourage them to consume healthy beverages and hydrating foods to prevent dehydration in this age group.