What Does Dehydration Do to Seniors’ Bodies?

Dehydration is a big issue for aging adults because it can lead to a variety of different complications and health problems. As seniors age, they go through changes that make dehydration more likely to occur. Recognizing the signs of dehydration and understanding what it does to seniors’ bodies is so important for keeping them healthier. Home care assistance can offer seniors the support they need to stay properly hydrated.

 

Causes of Senior Dehydration

Why do seniors get dehydrated? The simplest cause is that seniors just don’t drink enough fluids and experience a decreased sense of thirst, so they’re not getting prompted by their bodies to drink more. There are also medications that can increase fluid loss, like diuretics. These medications disrupt fluid balance in the body, especially if seniors aren’t drinking enough to compensate.

Mobility issues make it tougher for seniors to get up and get water. They may feel awkward asking home care assistance providers or family caregivers for help, but that can lead to bigger issues. Reduced kidney function can also make it tougher for the body to conserve water, leading to dehydration.

 

Cognitive Decline

When aging adults aren’t drinking enough fluids, they may experience changes in how their brains work. They may notice that they’re feeling confused or they have increased memory issues. They may even have trouble concentrating when they’re dehydrated because the brain needs fluids.

 

Increased Fall Risk

Being dehydrated can cause seniors to feel dizzy or lightheaded. That’s bad enough on its own, but if they stand up and try to move around, they may be at an increased risk of falling. Falls on their own are a huge health risk for seniors because of the injuries falls can create.

 

Kidney Damage

Chronic dehydration damages the kidneys. It can also worsen existing kidney ailments. When there isn’t enough fluid in the body, the kidneys have more trouble filtering waste from the cardiovascular system. That leads to toxins building up throughout the body. Damaged kidneys are more prone to kidney stones and even to kidney failure.

 

Digestive Issues

The body needs plenty of water for healthy digestion. If seniors aren’t getting enough fluids, they may experience more digestive problems. Eating a healthy diet and drinking enough water and other fluids can help resolve those digestive problems.

 

Cardiovascular Issues

The cardiovascular system needs plenty of water to keep itself working properly. When seniors are dehydrated, they might experience low blood pressure and higher heart rate than they should. They might feel fatigued and have more shortness of breath. If seniors already have cardiovascular health issues, dehydration can make those problems worse.

 

Skin Issues

Senior skin is already fairly fragile, and it thins over time. When seniors are dehydrated, their skin may be dry, flaky, and more prone to irritation. The skin becomes less elastic, which could contribute to irritation that turns into sores.

 

Home care assistance can be very helpful to seniors who are having trouble staying hydrated. Getting enough water every day can help aging adults reduce the effect dehydration has on every part of their bodies.

 

 

If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care Assistance in Woodbridge, VA, please contact the caring staff at Thrive Health Care Services today. (703) 992-0484