This is a frequent problem among all older people and merits special
attention since it causes particular problems in Alzheimer's.
Some experts think the thirst mechanism becomes deficient in old age,
while others suggest that medications may be responsible.
Whatever the cause, dehydration is common. People simply do not drink
enough water and do not feel thirsty. Additionally, many older people were
never in the habit of drinking water and often dislike it.
For the general maintenance of good hydration, at least four large glasses
of water a day are required, and some experts suggest that this figure
should be six ore even eight. This is apart from tea, coffee, alcohol, soft
drinks, or milk, which do not count. Only water counts.
It is especially important to make sure that people with Alzheimer's
comsume sufficient fluids, since they are unlikely to express a wish for
drinks on their own initiative. If they are reluctant to drink large amounts of
water, give it to them in little glasses on a regular basis. One or two small
glasses per hour throughout the day will ensure they get all the water
they need. If they so not like water, add a touch of fruit juice or squeeze
some lemon into the water. Try an herbal tea without any caffeine in it,
either hot or cold, as another way of getting fluid into them.
If the person is reluctant to drink, say "The doctor says you must."
That often works.
Confusion increases in people who are dehydrated, so always get fluids
into someone who seems to be particularly confused for no known reason.
Likewise, give a drink of water at periods of agitation.
There is a quick-check test for dehydration. Pinch the person's skin. If
the skin takes a long time to settle into place, that person is dehydrated.
Another clue is constipation. Despite everything that has been claimed
for fiber in the diet, the main reason why piople are constipated is that
they do not drink enough water.
attention since it causes particular problems in Alzheimer's.
Some experts think the thirst mechanism becomes deficient in old age,
while others suggest that medications may be responsible.
Whatever the cause, dehydration is common. People simply do not drink
enough water and do not feel thirsty. Additionally, many older people were
never in the habit of drinking water and often dislike it.
For the general maintenance of good hydration, at least four large glasses
of water a day are required, and some experts suggest that this figure
should be six ore even eight. This is apart from tea, coffee, alcohol, soft
drinks, or milk, which do not count. Only water counts.
It is especially important to make sure that people with Alzheimer's
comsume sufficient fluids, since they are unlikely to express a wish for
drinks on their own initiative. If they are reluctant to drink large amounts of
water, give it to them in little glasses on a regular basis. One or two small
glasses per hour throughout the day will ensure they get all the water
they need. If they so not like water, add a touch of fruit juice or squeeze
some lemon into the water. Try an herbal tea without any caffeine in it,
either hot or cold, as another way of getting fluid into them.
If the person is reluctant to drink, say "The doctor says you must."
That often works.
Confusion increases in people who are dehydrated, so always get fluids
into someone who seems to be particularly confused for no known reason.
Likewise, give a drink of water at periods of agitation.
There is a quick-check test for dehydration. Pinch the person's skin. If
the skin takes a long time to settle into place, that person is dehydrated.
Another clue is constipation. Despite everything that has been claimed
for fiber in the diet, the main reason why piople are constipated is that
they do not drink enough water.
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Dehydration
Reprinted with permission from Frena Gray-Davidson, from her book,
"The Alzheimer's Sourcebook For Caregivers"
Third Edition, 1999, Published by Lowell House ISBN 0-7373-0131-7
Frena Gray-Davidson Alzheimer's Guide website address http://www.alzguide.com
Reprinted with permission from Frena Gray-Davidson, from her book,
"The Alzheimer's Sourcebook For Caregivers"
Third Edition, 1999, Published by Lowell House ISBN 0-7373-0131-7
Frena Gray-Davidson Alzheimer's Guide website address http://www.alzguide.com
