Helping those with dementia stay hydrated during heat waves

Atlanta is in the middle of an early summer heat wave. Yesterday the heat index was above 100 degrees, with temperatures in the 90s and humidity over 60 percent. By noon, it’s very uncomfortable to be outside for any extended amount of time. It feels like you are trying to breathe through a hot, wet blanket.

Older people and those with dementia are at particular risk during heat waves. I’ve written before about how some older people on limited incomes are afraid to turn on their air conditioners because of the high cost. And while air conditioning is pretty common here in the Deep South, other parts of the country that are used to more moderate summer temperatures can be taken by surprise during a heat wave. I experienced that in the mountains of New Mexico and it was very uncomfortable with just a fan.

Hydration is just as important as having a cool place to reside. Elders and those with dementia often struggle to drink enough water or other fluids. For my parents, drinking water was not the necessity that I find it to be. My father drank mostly juice and coffee, with an occasional diet soda. My mother was a bit more diverse, with juice, coffee, tea, milk, and occasional diet soda. Water was not on the menu, unless they were taking their medication.

I can’t imagine not drinking water. It seems like a no-brainer to me, but it’s a generational difference that is important to note. Caregivers will be relieved to know that the traditional advice of consuming 8 glasses of water per day has been debunked. In fact, recent research has found that the amount of water one needs typically declines with age. Instead of focusing just on water, focus on total fluid intake. Harvard Health recommends 4-6 cups of water per day, on top of the other fluids and hydrating foods that you eat.

Here are some additional recommendations to encourage hydration for those with dementia:

• Don’t focus just on plain water. While limiting sugary sodas and juices is important, coffee and tea is fine, up to about 400 mg of caffeine per day, according to researchers.
• Sparkling water and adding fresh fruit to water is another good option to make beverages more visually attractive and more flavorful.
• Hydrating foods are key for those who are not fond of drinking water. Fruits like watermelon and vegetables like cucumbers and celery are all very hydrating. Soups are ideal for hydration.
• Instead of juice, try whipping up smoothies to sneak in some healthy vegetables and fruits.
• If your loved one takes medication, this is great opportunity to encourage drinking water.
• Make sure to use cups and glasses that are easy for your loved one with dementia to use.

Image by Silvia from Pixabay.