Staying hydrated is important at any age, but for seniors it should be a top priority. Older adults are at a much greater risk for dehydration than any other age group, especially those who have preexisting conditions or take certain medications.

The team at Grand Oaks is available to support residents in staying hydrated. Follow our tips for creative ways to prevent dehydration in seniors during peak summer heat.

Understanding Dehydration in Seniors

As we age, our body’s natural defense against dehydration—what we call thirst—diminishes. Without the body signaling the need for water, it becomes much easier to forget to drink enough water throughout the day. By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be experiencing early signs of dehydration.

The kidneys also play a large role in the risk of dehydration. Fully functional kidneys conserve and filter water, but as you get older, their effectiveness can decrease, leading to frequent urination and fluid loss.

Other factors can increase the likelihood of dehydration in seniors, including preexisting conditions and certain medications.

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels force your kidneys to work harder.
• Kidney disease: Damaged kidneys struggle to filter and balance fluids.
• Cognitive impairments (dementia or Alzheimer’s): An individual may not experience thirst, may forget to drink fluids, or may lose the ability to ask for them.

Medications considered diuretics, often referred to as “water pills,” help the kidneys remove excess salt and water from the body through urine. In this way, diuretics increase the likelihood of dehydration.

At Grand Oaks, we understand the severity of dehydration, which is why our dining staff ensures that residents stay hydrated throughout the day.

Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration can become a serious issue without adequate fluids for more than 24 hours. It is important to be familiar with the early and severe signs of dehydration so that you can act quickly.

Early warning signs include:

• Unquenchable thirst
• Dry mouth
• Dark colored urine
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Flushed skin
• Mood swings

Severe signs include:

• Confusion
• Few or no tears when crying
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Chills
• Heat intolerance

With Johns Hopkins and Sibley Memorial Hospital care teams on-site every day, Grand Oaks staff are trained to recognize the signs of dehydration and intervene when needed. You can rest assured knowing you or your loved one will benefit from some of the nation’s best wellness programs.

Creative Prevention

A good baseline for fluid intake is eight glasses of water per day. But sometimes it can be difficult to stay hydrated, so it is helpful to find ways to make it fun.

Creative ways to consume more fluids include:

• Add sliced fruit: Fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges are great for changing up the flavors.
• Add herbs: Herbs such as mint or basil make for a stronger flavor. You can even mix with fruit!
• Other beverages: Fizzy alternatives like sparkling water or seltzer, milk (of all kinds), fruit juices, warm herbal teas (decaffeinated), smoothies, and electrolyte drinks are all great options to support hydration.
• Eat hydrating foods: Cucumbers, celery, watermelon, yogurt, jellies, soup, and even frozen ice fruit pops are great ways to increase your water intake.
• Water bottle: Carrying a bottle with you will encourage you to sip throughout the day. Choosing brightly colored drinkware is found to encourage individuals with a cognitive impairment to drink more. You can also decorate it with stickers, straw toppers, and more!

Our dining team provides plenty of opportunities for residents to stay hydrated throughout the day, from mealtimes to offering hydrating snacks and more.  

Caring for the Whole Person at Grand Oaks

Staying hydrated as we age does not have to be a struggle if you are proactive and find ways to incorporate these tips and others into your daily routine. At Grand Oaks, our team makes it easy, with thoughtfully prepared meals, refreshing beverage options throughout the day, and staff who pay attention to the small details that support residents’ overall health.

Our friendly and well-trained staff care for the whole person, supporting you or your loved one’s health and happiness. To learn more, contact us or schedule a tour today.