As the temperature rises during the summer months, staying hydrated becomes more important than ever. For elderly people, particularly those living with dementia, dehydration can pose a serious risk to their health and wellbeing, and it can often go unnoticed until symptoms become more severe.
Why Older Adults are More at Risk
As we age, our sense of thirst becomes less reliable. Older people may simply not feel thirsty, even when their body needs fluids. Some medications can even contribute to a lack of thirst, or fluid loss. For people living with dementia, there are further challenges. They may forget to drink, be unable to find where drinks are kept, or not recognise a drink placed in front of them. Others may avoid drinking due to worries about incontinence. These difficulties make hydration in dementia a particular concern, as it requires extra support and awareness from caregivers.
All of these factors combined make it harder for some older adults to stay hydrated on their own, especially during the summer, when the body loses more fluid through sweat.
The Signs of Dehydration
Being able to spot the early signs of dehydration is key to preventing more serious complications. Look out for:
- Dry mouth or lips
- Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fatigue or confusion
- Sunken eyes or skin that’s less elastic
- Headaches
- Reduced urine output or going to the toilet less often
In elderly people, and especially those with dementia, confusion, tiredness, or unusual behaviour may be misinterpreted as a progression of their condition, when it could actually be a sign of dehydration.
Times When Extra Care is Needed
There are certain times when the risk of dehydration increases. These include:
- Hot weather and heatwaves
- When someone is unwell or has a fever
- After increased physical activity, even a short walk
- When taking certain medications that increase fluid loss
- During and after episodes of diarrhoea or vomiting
Care teams in settings like B&M Care homes know to be extra vigilant on warmer days and in these higher-risk situations. But it’s just as important for people caring for a loved one at home to know when to act.
Supporting with Hydration in Dementia Care
For people living with dementia, extra support is often needed. They may not understand the need to drink, may forget how, or might be unable to communicate their thirst. At B&M Care, all staff are trained in dementia care and know how to respond in these situations with compassion and patience. Helpful approaches include:
- Offering drinks at the same times each day to create routine, keeping in mind that it is recommended to have 8 glasses of fluid daily. Tea, coffee and juice all count
- Serving drinks they enjoy and offering choice and variety – even ice lollies or food that is high in liquid such as yogurt or jelly
- Using clear or colourful cups that are easy to hold and ensuring it is placed where they can easily see it
- Encouraging small sips throughout the day, particularly during meal times
- Supporting dignity and confidence in those who may be managing incontinence
- ‘Jelly Drops’ are a sweet designed to help people living with dementia consume more water
Hydration Matters for Everyone
Although the focus here is on elderly people and those with dementia, hydration is important for everyone, especially in the summer. Key workers like nurses, carers, and emergency responders are often on the move and may forget to drink enough themselves.
To show support, Ryeview Manor, a B&M Care home in High Wycombe, is offering reusable water bottles to all visiting key workers this summer. It’s part of our ‘50 Acts of Kindness’ initiative to mark B&M Care’s 50th anniversary.
The Importance of Hydration in Dementia Care
Staying hydrated can be the difference between someone feeling tired and confused, or alert and well. It’s a small act of care that carries real weight, especially for those who rely on others for support. The importance of hydration in dementia care is crucial, as people living with the condition often need reminders and encouragement to drink enough. Whether at home or in a care setting, understanding how to help someone drink enough, and when to watch more closely, can make all the difference.
At B&M Care, we take these everyday details seriously. Our commitment to person-centred care includes helping each resident stay hydrated, comfortable, and well, whatever the season. Contact us directly to find out more.