While we often associate dehydration with the warmer summer months, it’s also a concern during winter, as well – particularly for older people and those with certain health conditions that increase the risks.
As live-in carers and private nurses, it’s essential that we understand the risks associated with each one of our clients, tailoring their care packages specifically to ensure that dehydration doesn’t become problematic and making sure that continuity of care is delivered no matter what to keep everyone healthy and safe.
How do you prevent dehydration in winter?
Dehydration in winter can be caused by:
– Reduced thirst sensation, which can happen when it’s cold
– Central heating, which can dry out the air and contribute to bodily moisture loss
– Wearing lots of layers, which can mean you don’t realise how much fluid you lose through sweat
Because we provide such person-centred care, we’re always on hand to make sure that our clients drink regularly throughout the day, keeping fluid intake on point.
Advice includes setting phone alerts or similar to serve as a reminder to drink, carrying a bottle of water around to ensure ready access to fluids, eating water-rich food like cucumber, water cress, watermelon, peppers and so on, and enjoying cups of tea and caffeine-free hot drinks.
And, of course, we work closely with our clients’ friends, family and loved ones, sharing care provision plans as appropriate to ensure that fluids are provided as required when we’re not in situ.
Symptoms of dehydration in seniors to look out for include:
– Dry, sticky mouth
– Unexplained fatigue
– Less frequent urination
– Dark urine
– Dizziness/feeling lightheaded
– Confusion
How can health conditions affect dehydration?
Naturally, because our standard of care is so high, we stay fully up to date with our clients’ health records and are made immediately aware of any changes that might impact the care we provide.
Some health conditions increase the risk of dehydration, including:
– Diabetes, where high blood glucose levels can cause increased urination and greater fluid loss
– Kidney disease, where the body finds it harder to retain and manage fluids properly
– Ulcerative colitis, where fluid loss is caused by diarrhoea and vomiting
– Dementia, where it can be difficult to recognise thirst cues or to swallow properly
Medication use and taking certain drugs can also increase the amount of fluid loss through increased urination, which is something we also take into account.
What are the effects of dehydration on elderly people?
If left untreated, dehydration can cause serious complications, including:
– Seizures, caused by imbalances in electrolytes like potassium and sodium
– Urinary and kidney issues, including infections, kidney stones and potentially kidney failure
– Heat injuries, such as mild cramps, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke (which can be fatal)
– Hypovolemic shock, where low blood volume leads to drops in blood pressure and in the amount of oxygen in the body (which can be fatal)
If you’re worried about your loved one at any point and think they might be dehydrated, talk to your private nurse about your concerns.
If you or a loved one is cranky or confused, sleepier or less active than usual, unable to keep down fluids or has had diarrhoea for over 24 hours, seek further medical advice.
