Keeping Seniors Hydrated During the Hot Summer in Gilbert

Staying hydrated in the sometimes-brutal summer heat is vital, especially for seniors.

Summer temperatures in the Gilbert-Chandler area typically exceed 100°F during the summer months. With the high this year already being an extreme 116°F. With temperatures this high, dehydration can set in quickly than normal. This can be especially prevalent in aging adults. Thus, recognizing the signs of dehydration is vital for caregivers of seniors.

Why are Seniors at a Greater Risk?

• It’s harder for them to adjust to sudden temperature changes
• They may have a chronic medical condition that alters the body’s response to heat
• They may take prescriptions that affect the body’s ability to regulate its temperature

Signs of Dehydration

There are several symptoms of dehydration, and you will often see someone suffering from more than one. If your aging loved one is displaying any of these, make sure to get some fluids into them as soon as possible.

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Muscle Cramps
• Lack of energy
• Tiredness with minimal activity
• Dry mouth
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Confusion
• Dark-colored urine
• Less frequent urination

Preventing Dehydration

There are several precautions you can take as an aging adult to help prevent dehydration. These are even more important on those especially hot days. To start, drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids. Make sure to do this regardless of how active you are throughout the day. Also, don’t wait until you feel thirsty to start drinking. Maintain a steady flow of fluids throughout the day. If you are going outdoors, make sure to bring a water bottle with you. Don’t drink caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. When thinking of meals, make sure to incorporate fruits and vegetables that are high in water content. These include watermelon, cantaloupe, citrus fruits, tomatoes, cucumbers, and celery. Finally, try to check your body weight daily. If you lose two or more pounds within 24 hours, it may indicate dehydration.

Local Resources

If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat and still stay active, socially and physically. Try visiting the Gilbert Senior Center, located inside the Gilbert Community Center. With activities every day and new activities each month, you’re sure to find a great way to keep cool inside and still stay active.

How Can Griswold Help?

At Griswold Home Care for Gilbert-Chandler, through our Companionship Care, our Caregivers can accompany your loved one throughout the day and be on the lookout for signs of dehydration. With our Homemaking Care, they can also help prepare your home for those hot days. This includes changing bed sheets to lightweight alternatives, checking fans/vents to maintain air flow, watering plants, and helping to organize closets or seasonal storage.

Make sure to stay cool this summer, and should you wish to learn more about how our Caregivers can help you Live Assured, give us a call today! We would be happy to discuss all care options and can put together a personalized care plan just for you.