By Julie Shirk, Seasons Adult Day Health Services Registered Nurse
As the summer temperatures climb, it is increasingly important to remain hydrated. We know that hydration is important for our health and wellbeing. It supports our digestion, brain health, sleep, oral hygiene, skin and soft tissue integrity, and muscle strength. There are several creative ways out there that a person existing without cognitive changes is able to remind themselves to drink more water. A person living with dementia or cognitive changes may not recognize they are thirsty, they are sweating, or how hot it is outside, and oftentimes doesn’t have the cognitive ability to keep up with a reminder system.
It is recommended for adults to have at least 8-10 cups of liquid each day.
Dry lips are often the first sign of dehydration. Other common signs are otherwise unexplained fatigue, headaches, constipation, or urine that is darkly colored. A person who is well hydrated will have pale yellow urine without noticeable odor.
Assisting someone living with cognitive changes or dementia to remain hydrated is a part of their care and is just as important (if not more important) as ensuring they are eating enough. Some tips and tricks to assist with this are:
- Having a drink available to the person at all times
- Encouraging taking drinks while eating
- Using a clear cup where the contents can be identified easily
- Ensuring the cup is easy to handle and a familiar cup shape and design
- Make sure the temperature of the liquid is to their liking
- Encourage foods that have a high water content- fresh fruit, vegetables, smoothies
- Avoid constantly drinking dehydrating liquids- tea, coffee, alcohol, or ensure these liquids are supplemented with lots of plain water
If a person living with cognitive changes or dementia continues to refuse to drink, it is important to identify external factors that may be affecting their desire to drink liquids.
- Is the person in an uncomfortable or overwhelming situation or setting? If so, removing them from the situation if possible and allowing them to relax for a moment to rehydrate and rest is important.
- Are they visibly distressed? Pushing liquids on someone when they are otherwise upset may make them feel overwhelmed. Getting them to a state of calm, then offering liquids is ideal.
- Does the person often choke on liquids and therefore is hesitant to drink? Talking to their doctor about swallowing concerns is important, and thickened liquids may be prescribed.
- Do they not seem to enjoy the taste of plain water? Flavoring with lemon or other fresh fruit may spark their interest. It is important to try to avoid artificial flavorings as these have been proven to be unhelpful in the brain health of persons living with cognitive changes or dementia.
If you are struggling to care for your loved one living with cognitive changes or dementia, Senior Services offers an array of support programs. Seasons Adult Day Health Services is a secure, comfortable, cognitively enriching environment where health matters. Your loved ones are attended to by a Registered Nurse and compassionate staff members all while you receive respite time. Caregiver Support group through Senior Services is a confidential support group where caregivers can connect with other caregivers, discuss and problem solve challenging situations, and receive educational resources. For more information please contact Seasons Adult Day Health Services at 989-633-3764.
Please continue to check out the section, Our Mind Matters, next month.