Hydration Tips for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities in the Summer

Our bodies are mostly made from water, and we all need to constantly replenish it throughout our day. While staying hydrated is easy and natural for young, able-bodied individuals, some of us not only dehydrate more quickly but also have a harder time realizing that we're thirsty and finding an appropriate hydration source. If you have a senior or adult with disabilities in your life, or if you are one, this article can help you stay well-hydrated throughout the summer months.

Why Summer Hydration Becomes Critical for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities

The high temperatures and direct sun exposure lead to increased sweating, which makes constant hydration essential during the summer months. For seniors, these can be challenging times, as the thirst signals sent by their bodies aren't as strong as they used to be. As a result, they may not feel a strong sense of thirst when dehydrated.

Adults with cognitive, physical, or developmental disabilities also face some challenges in doing something that many of us take for granted, which is staying hydrated throughout the summer days. Depending on their disability, they may have trouble asking for water, be physically limited and not be able to get their own, depend on caregivers to constantly hydrate them throughout the day, or battle various medical conditions that increase their hydration needs.

Dehydration Risks in Older Adults

The main challenge that seniors face when trying to stay hydrated is that many of them simply don't get thirsty in the same way younger people do. They have to make a conscious effort and constantly remind themselves to regularly drink water and other hydrating drinks. Other age-related hydration challenges include:

·        Kidney issues: As we get older, our kidneys tend to become less efficient at conserving water.

·        Mobility challenges: After a certain age, getting out of bed and grabbing yourself a glass of water isn't as easy as it used to be.

·        Memory challenges: Likewise, elderly people may also have trouble remembering that they need to stay hydrated.

·        Medications: Many seniors take medications to help their minds and bodies cope with age-related issues. Blood pressure medication, laxatives, diuretics, and other drugs may hasten fluid loss.

·        Chronic illnesses: Last but not least, many older individuals face chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and kidney issues, which can all affect their bodies' fluid balance.

Recognizing Early Warning Signs of Dehydration

The sooner you recognize dehydration signs in a senior or adult with disabilities, the more likely they are to avoid any serious complications. Not taking action in time can result in serious medical consequences like heart issues, loss of consciousness, and the need for hospitalization. Some signs you can look for to determine whether someone you care for is becoming dehydrated include:

·        Dry lips and mouth

·        Less urination than usual, and the urine having a dark yellow color

·        An increased sense of fatigue or weakness

·        A powerful headache, plus dizziness or lightheadedness

·        Muscle cramps

·        An increased difficulty in focusing or concentrating

Practical Summer Hydration Strategies

These tips can help both senior citizens and adults with disabilities stay hydrated throughout the summer months:

Drink lots of fluids throughout the day

This may seem obvious, but the key to proper hydration is making a habit of drinking fluids at regular times. Since the sense of thirst tends to diminish with age, simply drinking some water when thirsty isn't a viable strategy for elderly individuals. Strategies like having some water with them throughout the day and sipping some occasionally, or establishing clear routines like drinking a glass of water after each meal or snack, can help keep them hydrated.

Make Water Easily Accessible

One of the things that seniors and adults with disabilities have in common is the major mobility challenges they face. This extends to their ability to get a glass of water when they need it, so making water easily available can go a long way toward keeping them well-hydrated. Make sure to leave bottles or cups throughout their living area, so they can grab one when they need to. Disabled adults who use various types of mobility aids, like wheelchairs or walkers, can have a water bottle attached to their mobility aid to have it readily available at all times.

Set Reminders

Older adults and those with cognitive disabilities may simply forget to drink enough fluids throughout the day. Using a smartphone, watch, or any other viable device to set constant reminders can help them remember. Creating a schedule and using technology to help seniors and adults with disabilities keep it can make a world of difference.

Make Sure They Also Eat Hydrating Foods

Hydration also comes from food. Lots of fruits and vegetables have plenty of fluids and may also be more attractive to consume plain water. Soups, fruit smoothies, and yogurt are just some examples of foods that are both nutritious and hydrating. At the other end of the spectrum, caffeine and alcohol-related products can do the exact opposite and make them even more dehydrated.

Avoid Going Out during Peak Heat Hours

Going out anytime from late morning to early evening can take its toll on anyone on a hot summer day. It goes without saying that disabled adults and the elderly will find it even more difficult to face the extreme heat. If possible, make sure they avoid going out during the day. If they absolutely need to go out, wearing lightweight and loose garments made with breathable fabrics can help them avoid excessive heat absorption.

Creating Supportive Daily Routines for Better Hydration

Hopefully, these tips can help seniors and adults with disabilities create healthy habits that will keep them hydrated even on hot days. If you're looking to learn more about how supportive programs help seniors and adults with disabilities maintain healthy daily routines, feel free to contact us at  St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Center.