According to Jeannete Y. Wick, RPh, who wrote the article" Prevention and Management of Dehydration," the elderly are at greatest risk for dehydration, and those 85-99 years old are six times more likey to be hospitalized for dehydration than people aged 65-69. Dehydration is fatal in 18% of these cases, not having been addressed early enough. Most importantly, this problem can be prevented. Knowing the signs and having a plan can help prevent this very common problem.
Signs:
- Confusion - Frequently an early sign. Pay attention to even mild cognitive changes.
- Poor skin turgor- May be difficult to assess, but skind that feels warm and moist may be a good sign.
- Dry mouth
- Changes in vital signs - Usually a lower blood pressure and an increase in pulse.
- Concentrated urine
- Dizziness or fainting
- Increased age - The elderly have lower body water content compared to younger people.
- Cognitive impairment - Difficulty remembering when or how much fluid they have had to drink
- Medications - Diuretics, laxatives, blood pressure medications, some demetia medications
- Dysphasia - Difficulty in swallowing
- Decreased ability to sense thirst
- Increase in activities
- Depression
- Change in schedule
- Diarrhea
- Make monitoring fluid intake a priority
- Know the signs and symptoms
- Offer water every hour; even when the elder does not say they are thirsty
- Add lemons, strawberries, orange slices, or cucumbers to make water more appealing
- Offer food like, jello, yogurt, melons
- Make water available at all times especially if going on an outing, walk, or running errands
- Pay attention to temperature changes
