Extreme heat in summer can be deadly to children and seniors alike. Both are highly susceptible to dehydration and excessive heat can trigger heat stress and/or stroke. It is important that caregivers are aware of the early signs of dehydration which includes confusion, drowsiness, labored speech, dry mouth, and sunken eyeballs. Because these signs can be a normal state for elderly people, it can be difficult to determine if one is actually suffering the condition. Our assisted living staff and senior caregivers are fully trained, educated, and most importantly deeply familiar with our residents making heat-related issues a non-threat to all.

The required daily water consumption of a senior citizen is the same with young people. The baseline recommendation is once cup of water for every 20 pounds of body weight (6-8 glasses / day). The consumption quantity increases considering the excessive heat and increased physical exertion levels during summer. It is important to keep in mind that the less the elderly drink the less thirsty they become. This increases their risk to dehydration. They are also more prone to dehydration because their kidney function likely have declined over the years.

Water should be served at every meal. It should be readily available night and day. Extra water consumption monitoring should be given to those who are not able to hydrate all by themselves. For more information about hydration awareness for seniors, contact Manor Lake Bridgemill.