AD VERTISEMEN T
DON’T LEAVE YOURSELF
High and Dry KNOWING THE SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE
T
he hot summer months can take their toll on anyone, but for seniors the threat is especially dangerous. “Dehydration is a significant issue with the elderly,” said Jami Proctor, a clinical manager at Caretenders of Gainesville. “It can occur in less than eight hours and it’s a significant reason for hospitalization. Approximately 18 percent of seniors admitted to a hospital for dehydration die within 30 days.” Seniors often have a decreased level of perspiration, a delayed sense of thirst or decreased senses of taste and smell. Medications can suppress hunger or thirst. And even in hot weather many seniors choose not to use air conditioning, opting instead to open windows or turn on fans to avoid high energy bills or a house that feels too cold for them. Caretenders personnel educate seniors and caregivers on the signs of dehydration and ways to avoid it. Some obvious symptoms may include increased confusion or disorientation, fainting, headaches and dryness of the nose and mouth. “The tongue can get sticky or tacky, and the skin loses elasticity,” Proctor explained. “If you pinch the skin up and it very slowly goes back down, that is a sign of dehydration.”
Left unchecked, dehydration can lead to complications such as stroke or heart failure. Yet the danger can be averted with simple planning. Proctor suggests providing attractive containers such as colorful glasses and pitchers to entice clients to drink fluids, or adding a little fruit to water to give variety in appearance and flavor. “Have things prepared ahead of time and placed where seniors can easily reach them,” said Proctor. “Call them through the day and monitor their eating and drinking habits.” Water does not have to be the only option; liquids that are low in sugar can help keep dehydration at bay. Incorporate plenty of fruit, vegetables and other foods with high water content into the diet. Sugar-free popsicles and smoothies are also good ways to get fluids into a senior’s diet. Save outdoor activities for the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower, and wear a hat and loose fitting, cotton clothes that allow skin to breathe. If a senior shows signs of heat stroke – high body temperature, rapid pulse and vomiting – get him or her to a hospital immediately. With a little knowledge and some preventive measures, independent seniors can still enjoy “the good old summertime!”
“I wondered if my family could manage all the care I needed after leaving the hospital.”
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July 2016
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