Dehydration: Symptoms
to look out for Seniors

Dehydration: Symptoms to look out for Seniors

16 January 2020

In a few weeks, we will enter Spring and followed-up by Summer. Hopefully outside gatherings will return as a good option for safely spending time with friends and family members.

Dehydration Symptoms for Seniors

One hazard to be mindful of, however, is dehydration. While it can impact people of all ages, older adults are at an increased risk. Here’s what you should know for the hottest days of summer.

Dehydration Risk for Seniors

Older adults are prone to dehydration for a variety of reasons. A leading factor is the age-related changes the body goes through. These changes can weaken a senior’s sense of thirst, while also making it more difficult to regulate body heat, especially with fluctuating humidity and temperatures.

When the body is too hot, it begins to sweat in order to cool down. This causes a loss of fluid. High humidity also prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling the body. The bottom line in of all of this is an increased need for fluid intake. When fluids aren’t replaced, the result can be serious health consequences and possibly even death.

How much hydration do you need to consume in a typical summer day to be safe?

The general rule of thumb is to drink 8 glasses of water a day. If you will be outdoors on a hot day, you should also consume 16–20 ounces of fluids before heading outside. Always continue drinking water while you are outside in the heat.

If you aren’t fond of water or struggle to drink as much as is recommended, there are foods that have hydrating benefits. Fruits and vegetables top the list. While sodas, coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages technically count as fluids, health professionals don’t recommend them. That’s because caffeine acts as a diuretic to the body which leads to greater fluid loss.

Warning Signs of Dehydration

Some of the symptoms of dehydration are familiar to people, while others aren’t. Taking time to learn the signs of dehydration is important.

In the early stages, signs of dehydration often include being thirsty, feeling restless, and even irritability. If the situation isn’t addressed, here are additional symptoms of dehydration:

  • Listlessness
  • Headache
  • Muscle cramps
  • Sunken eyes
  • Dark urine
  • Decreased urine

Dehydration can become a life-threatening condition if any of these signs are exhibited:

  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Difficulty walking
  • Problems with coordination
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Fainting

Preventing Dehydration in an Older Adult

In addition to drinking water and consuming foods that hydrate, reducing the fluid loss caused by perspiration also helps.

Here are a few ways for minimizing perspiration:

Invest in breathable clothes: Wear clothing made of lightweight fabrics. This will allow air to circulate and keep an older adult cool. Cotton and linen are usually best.

Watch the clock: The sun is usually at its peak between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. By planning outside activities around those times, you can lower the risk of dehydration.

Use the air conditioner: Encourage a senior loved one to stay inside and use their air conditioner on hot days. Some may resist doing so in an attempt to keep utility costs lower. It they don’t have air-conditioning, create a list of cool places they feel comfortable going when it’s hot, such as their favorite shopping mall, coffee shop, or bookstore.

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