At Noble healthcare at home, dehydration prevention care is one of our most important concerns. Seniors, especially those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related conditions, often face a serious risk of dehydration. Unfortunately, it can be exceedingly difficult to monitor an elderly loved one for signs of dehydration, especially if they live alone resulting in a lack of dehydration prevention care that could result in serious consequences. You simply cannot be with your loved one all the time, and they may not even notice symptoms of dehydration until it’s too late.
Why Dehydration Is A Problem for The Elderly
Drinking enough water is vital for the body to regulate temperature, carry nutrients to the cells, maintain lubrication of the joints, and eliminate waste. As people age, however, they often lose the sensation of thirst and may not be aware that they require more fluids. If an elderly person suffers from mobility issues, they may also find it physically difficult to return to the kitchen time and again to refill their water glass. Dehydration can also be exacerbated by other health issues, including incontinence, any illness that causes vomiting or diarrhea, and the use of certain medications.
The weakness and dizziness that often accompanies dehydration can make older adults prone to falls. Elderly people who aren’t adequately hydrated are also at risk for serious conditions like kidney stones, urinary tract infection, constipation, and respiratory tract infection. In the worst-case scenario, a dehydrated senior may experience impaired kidney function, and eventually acute kidney failure.
If you are caring for an elderly loved one at home, it can take a great deal of effort to prevent dehydration. Among other things, you’ll need to closely monitor their fluid intake, including the consumption of high-water-content foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and soups.
Noble healthcare at home we do our best to ensure that all of your loved one’s nutritional and hydration needs are fully met, every single day – in the comfort and security of home. We can provide this care, in most circumstances, at every stage of the aging process and throughout end of life, in conjunction with your loved one’s other medical providers.