The older we get, the greater the odds our brains will forget to inform us that we're thirsty. Which is why, to prevent dehydration, it's imperative that seniors drink a sufficient amount of water every day - whether they feel thirsty or not.
Lack of thirst sensitivity isn't the only thing that differentiates seniors from younger adults when it comes to dehydration. Some seniors decrease their water intake due to fear of urinary incontinence, while others experience mild nephrogenic diabetes insipitus - a type of diabetes that's common among the elderly. Nephrogenic diabetes insipitus can cause dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration in seniors:
• Dry, inelastic skin
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Thirst
Benefits seniors can experience by drinking plenty of water:
• Helps prevent kidney stones
• Can ease constipation
• Improves condition of skin
• Improves mental sharpness
• Aids digestion
• Increases blood pressure and helps circulation
Home Page | FAQs | Glossary | Contact Us