What to give an elderly person for dehydration? An Expert Guide

Over 30% of elderly adults admitted to the hospital are dehydrated, highlighting the critical need to know what to give an elderly person for dehydration to prevent serious health complications and improve their overall well-being.

Quick Summary

For mild dehydration, provide a variety of hydrating fluids and foods, such as water, broth-based soups, and juicy fruits, in small, frequent amounts. In more severe cases, or for electrolyte loss, oral rehydration solutions are often necessary, and medical consultation may be required.

Key Points

• Plain Water: Best for daily hydration, but can be flavored with fruit for better appeal to seniors.

• Electrolyte Solutions: Necessary for significant fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea. Look for low-sugar ORS options.

• Hydrating Foods: Fruits like watermelon, broths, and soups contribute to overall fluid intake and can be more appealing than just water.

• Frequent, Small Servings: Older adults may not feel thirsty, so regular, scheduled offerings of small amounts of fluids are more effective than large volumes at once.

• Know the Emergency Signs: Confusion, fainting, or rapid heart rate indicate severe dehydration and require immediate medical attention.

Understanding Dehydration in Older Adults

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. For older adults, the risk is significantly higher due to several age-related factors. The body's ability to conserve water naturally decreases with age, and the thirst sensation often diminishes, meaning a senior may not feel thirsty even when their body desperately needs fluid. Certain medications, like diuretics, can also increase the frequency of urination, contributing to fluid loss. These factors, combined with potential mobility issues that make accessing drinks difficult, make understanding and proactive intervention crucial for senior care. Recognizing the subtle signs, such as fatigue, confusion, or dark-colored urine, is the first step toward effective management.

Optimal Fluids for Mild to Moderate Dehydration

When dealing with mild to moderate dehydration, a variety of palatable and accessible fluids can be offered to an elderly person. Plain water is always the primary recommendation, but for those who find it unappealing, alternatives are essential.

Water with Flavor

Adding natural flavors can make water more enticing. Infusing a pitcher with slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries offers a refreshing change. Sugar-free herbal teas, served warm or chilled, are also excellent choices.

Broth-Based Soups and Juices

Chicken or vegetable broths are an excellent source of fluid, and the added sodium can help replace lost electrolytes. Low-sugar fruit and vegetable juices, or homemade fruit-based popsicles, can also contribute to fluid intake in an enjoyable way.

Milk and Smoothies

Milk, whether low-fat or skim, contains natural electrolytes and can be a good hydrating option. Smoothies made with yogurt, fruit, and a liquid base like milk or coconut water are both hydrating and nutritious.

The Role of Electrolyte Solutions

For more significant dehydration, especially if it is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, replenishing electrolytes is key. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride are vital for regulating fluid balance and body functions. While sports drinks are an option, many are high in sugar, which can worsen dehydration or pose health risks for those with diabetes. Low-sugar or zero-sugar options like Gatorade Fit are better choices.

Commercial Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS)

For effective rehydration, especially during illness, commercial ORS products like Pedialyte are scientifically formulated to provide the correct balance of glucose and electrolytes for rapid absorption. These are not just for children and are often recommended for adults as well.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink

In a pinch, a homemade oral rehydration solution can be prepared by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of table salt and 2 tablespoons of sugar into 4 cups of water. This is a practical, cost-effective alternative, though commercial options are often preferred for accuracy.

Hydrating Foods and Dietary Strategies

Fluids don’t just come from drinks. Many foods have a high water content and can be an effective way to supplement hydration.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Offer slices of watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, peaches, cucumber, or celery as snacks.
• Soups and Stews: Serving broth-based soups or stews with meals significantly increases fluid intake.
• Popsicles and Gelatin: For those with a reduced appetite, popsicles made from juice or frozen fruit can be a cool, refreshing way to hydrate.
• Yogurt and Cottage Cheese: These dairy products have a high water content and can be served as a snack or a light meal.

Encouraging Fluid Intake: Practical Tips for Caregivers

Encouraging an elderly person to drink more can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some strategies caregivers can use:

• Establish a Schedule: Create a routine for drinking, offering fluids at specific times throughout the day, such as with medication or meals.
• Ensure Accessibility: Keep attractive, easy-to-grip cups or water bottles within easy reach at all times.
• Offer Variety: Alternate between water, broths, and juices to prevent flavor fatigue.
• Use Visual Reminders: Leave visual cues, like sticky notes on the fridge or a checklist, to help with memory issues.
• Involve Them in Choices: Ask them what they would prefer to drink to give them a sense of control and increase the likelihood they will consume it.
• Check Medications: Be aware of any medications that might increase dehydration risk and adjust fluid intake accordingly after consulting a doctor.

Comparing Rehydration Options

Option	Best For	Pros	Cons
Plain Water	Mild dehydration, daily intake	Calorie-free, readily available, natural	Can be unappealing for some seniors, no added electrolytes
Flavored Water/Herbal Tea	Improving water intake, daily hydration	More appealing taste, calorie-free (unsweetened)	May still lack electrolytes needed for significant loss
Broth-Based Soups	Mild dehydration, illness, electrolyte boost	Contains sodium, comforting, nutritious	Can be high in sodium, may require preparation
Electrolyte Solutions (ORS)	Moderate dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea	Balanced electrolytes, rapid rehydration	Can be expensive, some have high sugar content
Hydrating Foods (Fruits, etc.)	Supplementing fluids, healthy snacking	Nutritious, enjoyable, adds variety	Not sufficient for treating moderate-severe dehydration

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many mild cases can be managed at home, severe dehydration is a medical emergency, especially for the elderly. Be vigilant for the following signs and seek immediate medical attention if they appear:

• Severe confusion or disorientation
• Dizziness or fainting
• Difficulty moving or walking
• Rapid heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Inability to keep fluids down due to vomiting
• Little to no urination or very dark urine

For more information on the specific signs and risks of dehydration in older adults, consult WebMD's guide on dehydration. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if an underlying health condition exists. Proactive care and a variety of options can make all the difference in keeping an elderly person safe and properly hydrated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best initial fluid to give an elderly person for dehydration?

For mild cases, the best initial fluid is plain water. If they resist, try adding a splash of fruit juice, slices of lemon, or cucumber for flavor to encourage them to drink.

Are sports drinks good for rehydrating an elderly person?

Sports drinks can help replenish electrolytes but are often high in sugar. Low-sugar or zero-sugar versions like Gatorade Fit are better. For more effective electrolyte replacement, an oral rehydration solution (ORS) is often recommended.

What foods help with dehydration in seniors?

Many foods have a high water content. Consider offering juicy fruits like watermelon and strawberries, vegetables like cucumbers, and broth-based soups or stews. Popsicles made from fruit juice can also be a good option.

What are the key signs of dehydration to look for in an elderly person?

Common signs include dry mouth, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, and dark-colored urine. For more severe dehydration, look for a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or fainting.

When should I take an elderly person with dehydration to the doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention if you observe severe symptoms such as confusion, fainting, difficulty walking, rapid heart rate, or if they cannot keep fluids down due to vomiting.

Can I make a homemade oral rehydration solution for an elderly person?

Yes, a simple homemade ORS can be made by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of sugar into 4 cups of water. However, a commercial ORS is often more precise and is recommended for significant fluid loss.

Why do elderly people get dehydrated more easily?

Older adults have a diminished sense of thirst, a lower volume of water in their bodies, and their kidneys are less effective at conserving water. Certain medications can also increase fluid loss.