It is very important for elderly individuals to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter summer days. Hydration in elderly individuals is very important for numerous reasons; it helps maintain the balance of electrolytes, aids in digestion, maintains the blood volume at a normal amount, aids transportation of nutrients and sustains kidney function.
Individuals living with dementia may become dehydrated as they may not be able to communicate or recognise that they are thirsty. This can then lead to confusion, headaches, urinary tract infection and constipation. As a result, this can cause the dementia symptoms to worsen.
What fluids can you offer?
Water
Water should be the first choice when hydrating an individual living with dementia. It has great benefits including: maintaining a normal body temperature, cushioning joints and protecting the spinal cord.
Fruit infused water
This is a great healthy way of adding flavour without adding any sugar. You can add lemon, mint, strawberries, blueberries and many more to create a flavourful water medley and stay hydrated simultaneously.
Fruit juice/squash
Fruit juice contains 85% water which makes it very hydrating and beneficial for individuals living with dementia. To ensure the optimal amount of hydration, choose 100% fruit juice, not from concentrate.
Fruits
Watermelon is a great source of hydration for anyone. 92% of the liquid in watermelon is retained when eating it which ensures you stay hydrated.
Tea
Caffeine free tea is another way to stay hydrated and can be served hot or cold as ice tea. Teas can range from herbal such as chamomile and peppermint or can simply be black tea. Tea is also packed with antioxidants making it a healthy way to stay hydrated.
Coconut water
This is proven to boost 95% of water content and is an excellent source of several nutrients. It is also beneficial as it has antioxidant properties.
Milk
Although this might not be the primary source of hydration, milk is still an option. Milk can be served hot or cold and it is recommended to be served unsweetened.
To Conclude
Any of the options above would be a great way to stay hydrated and can be easily implemented into the daily routine of an individual living with dementia.
They are a good source of nutrients, hydration and ensures dementia symptoms are eased.
Hydration is very important, especially during hot summer days, therefore any way to implement this would be beneficial for an individual living with dementia.
If you would like to find out of how Medistaff24 can support you or your loved one please contact us or call our office on 01386 765 102.
Depending on the individual’s needs we can arrange home care visits or fully managed live-in care to support those living with dementia.
How to Arrange Care for You or Your Loved One
Step 1 – Get in touch with us
Contact us or call 01386 765 102 to discuss your loved one’s difficulties and elderly care requirements.
Step 2 – Arrange a free care assessment
We’ll come to your loved one’s home to discuss and assess their care needs.
Step 3 – Care starts
Your loved one will be cared for by one of our professional carers to support them to live independently at home.
