As hot summer weather approach, it’s vital to remember to keep your elderly loved one with Alzheimer’s (AD) disease properly hydrated. Memory loss from AD can easily result in forgetting to drink enough fluids-particularly in hot summer months.
Learning to identify the warning signs of heat stroke and dehydration is vital to your loved one’s overall health and may even save a life! CLICK HERE to learn the danger signs to observe for in seniors with heat stroke.
According to a recent Mayo Clinic report “The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly about 13 cups (3 liters) of total beverages a day. The AI for women is about 9 cups (2.2 liters) of total beverages a day.”
12 Tips for Improving Hydration in Seniors;
1.Keep your loved one out of the direct sun and humidity
2.Frequently offer fruits high in water content such as watermelon
3.Avoid drinks with caffeine like coffee and iced tea-opt for decaffeinated drinks instead
4.Always keep cold water accessible for your loved one-particularly in hot summer months
5.Keep track of the amount of fluid he/she is drinking daily
6.Discuss with physician before pushing fluids if your loved one is on a fluid restricted diet
7.Employ room darkening shades and/or drapes to keep the sun out during peak hours
8.Make sure your loved one has access to fans and air conditioning
9.Check to ensure the electric bill is being paid on time to avoid sudden disruption of service and have air conditioning units checked out to make sure they are working properly
10.If your loved one doesn’t have air conditioning, consider buying a window unit or move him/her temporarily to a home that does have central air
11.If there are no options for home air conditioning, encourage your loved one to spend time at a community drop in center or an adult day center where he/she can cool off during peak heat hours
12.Keep in mind that the elderly population is particularly vulnerable to dehydration and heat stroke, prevention and intervention can be a life saver. If signs of dehydration or heat stroke are detected, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease by CLICKING HERE to sign up for our FREE 25 topic course for caregivers.
