Dehydration is a serious health concern at any age, but older adults can be more susceptible to it and to the risks associated with it. There are multiple factors that can impact your loved one’s hydration levels. However, dehydration is essentially caused by not consuming enough fluids, an excessive loss of fluids, or a combination of the two.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of dehydration in older adults—and knowing when to seek help—is essential for protecting your loved one’s health and well-being.
In this article, we’ll cover what to look out for when it comes to spotting dehydration in your loved one, what to do if you’re concerned they may be suffering from it and how to help prevent it.
Why are older adults more vulnerable to dehydration?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it’s taking in. If not treated, it can become a serious problem. According to the NHS, older adults are more at risk of developing dehydration. Here are some of the reasons why.
Not consuming enough fluids
If your loved one is not consuming adequate fluids each day, they run the risk of suffering from dehydration. It sounds like a straightforward issue to address, but there are other factors that may be impacting why your loved one isn’t staying properly hydrated.
Reduced thirst response
As we age, our ability to feel thirsty can decline, meaning older adults may not drink enough fluids even when their body needs it.
Difficulty swallowing
If your loved one has difficulty with swallowing (also known as dysphagia), this can impact their ability to consume enough fluids.
Cognitive impairment
If your loved one is living with dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may forget to drink or be unable to properly communicate their needs when they’re thirsty.
Mobility issues
Difficulty moving around can make it harder for older adults to get drinks regularly. They may be worried about the risk of falls if no one is around to help them get to and from the kitchen. Concerns about an increased need to go to the toilet may also prevent your loved one from drinking enough.
Change in appetite and diet
Older adults may find that their portion size or the amount they’re eating changes as they age. But some of the fluids we consume can come from what we eat, as well as what we drink. For example, soup, jelly and fruits such as melons can be a partial source of daily fluids.
Excessive loss of fluids
Your loved one may feel like they’re drinking plenty, but there are underlying causes that could increase their risk of dehydration.
Bodily functions
As your loved one ages, their body’s ability to process and retain fluids can decline. For example, their kidneys may become less efficient at conserving fluid.
Chronic illnesses and medications
Other health conditions, such as diabetes, may increase your loved one’s need to urinate. Medications such as diuretics and some blood pressure medications can also increase fluid loss, all of which may increase the risk of dehydration for your loved one.
Why dehydration can be harder to spot in the older adult
Dehydration signs in older adults can be less obvious or mistaken for other age-related issues, such as confusion, fatigue or dry skin. That’s why it’s important to look out for less typical signs and monitor hydration closely.
Here are the signs and symptoms to look out for:
- Dry mouth, lips and tongue
- dark yellow or strong-smelling urine
- going to the toilet less often
- fatigue or weakness
- dizziness or feeling lightheaded
- headaches
- dry or papery skin
- confusion or disorientation
- irritability or sudden mood changes
- rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
How to treat dehydration in older adults
If you suspect your loved one is mildly dehydrated, it’s important to act quickly and monitor their symptoms. Here are some tips to help increase their hydration levels.
- Encourage regular sips of water throughout the day—even if they don’t feel thirsty.
- Offer a variety of fluids, such as squash, milk, herbal teas, or water-rich foods like soups, jelly, ice lollies and fruit.
- Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages
- Keep drinks within easy reach, especially for those with limited mobility.
- Set gentle reminders or use visual cues, such as placing drinks where they’ll be seen.
- Offer drinking aids like straws or handled cups where required.
Signs an older adult needs medical attention
In severe cases, dehydration can lead to serious complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney problems or even hospitalisation. If your loved one becomes very dehydrated, you must seek immediate medical attention. Here are the symptoms to look out for.
- Confusion, rapid heartbeat or fainting
- not passing urine for 8+ hours
- passing very dark and/ or strong-smelling urine
- vomiting or diarrhoea
- having an underlying condition that increases their risk of dehydration (such as diabetes or kidney disease).
Professional and compassionate hydration support at home
At Comfort Care At Home, we understand how easy it is for dehydration to go unnoticed—and the issues and discomfort this can cause for your loved one.
Our trained care professionals provide dedicated home care support, helping to monitor fluid intake, encourage regular drinking, and spot early signs of dehydration. Whether it’s popping in for a chat and making a cup of tea, reminding your loved one to drink, preparing nutritious meals or supporting them with health conditions that make hydration tricky, we’re here to help keep them safe, well and comfortable in their own home.
Contact us today to find out more about our home care services and the hydration support we can offer your loved one as part of a tailored care plan.