Summer’s constants include heat and the risk of dehydration, which is heightened by strenuous outdoor activity. Dehydration has serious effects on everyone, but in hot weather, the elderly are more at risk.
As a provider of home care in Grand Prairie, Texas, we are aware that there are a variety of factors that make older people more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Age-related declines in renal function and muscle mass (a vital water reservoir) lower the body’s ability to conserve water. This could make it difficult to adjust to temperature changes.
Fluid retention may be affected by specific medical conditions and medications. Patients with dementia that require home care assistance may forget to eat or drink, struggle to swallow, and as a result, may not obtain enough fluids.
Diuretics, antihistamines, laxatives, antipsychotics, and corticosteroids all promote frequent urine, which depletes electrolytes and water. Seniors with incontinence typically refrain from drinking beverages to avoid mishaps.
64 ounces of fluid per day are advised for most people. However, depending on prescriptions and medical conditions, that sum can fluctuate. The senior should drink more fluids more frequently if they are peeing or perspiring more.
Seniors that need home care services in Texas can seek assistance from All Heart Home Care Services, LLC, a leading provider of genuine home care services in Texas.
Call us at 469-636-4576 to make an appointment if you have any questions regarding our home health care and elderly care.