This week with the warmer weather, it has been a perfect time to get totally tropical, whilst promoting hydration.
Enjoying mocktails and promoting hydration
Our chef Anita set up her Cocktail Corner each day with a new drink for residents to try. They have all been delicious, with the Sparkling Cranberry Kiss being a real favourite. These healthy fruit smoothies and non-alcoholic cocktails were all served with an umbrella, straw and flower garland.
The cocktail of the day
There was also an important message of encouragement; drink lots to stay hydrated. Older people are more susceptible to dehydration and fluid and electrolyte imbalance. As you get older, your ability to conserve water decreases, so there is an increased risk of dehydration.
Totally tropical cocktail week!
The importance of hydration with the elderly
Did you know that as we age, our sense of thirst diminishes. This can be more pronounced in those with Alzheimer’s, or who have suffered a stroke. Therefore, by the time someone feels thirsty they may well be dehydrated. For this reason, it is important to encourage our residents to drink more.
Our kidneys play a vital role in fluid regulation but as we age, they become less able to conserve water. This is a gradual deterioration of function, which starts at about 50 and becomes more acute after age 70.
Swallowing difficulties, illness and dementia are all associated with dehydration. Residents with dementia may forget to drink and therefore need encouragement. Straws and different receptacles can help, even changing the colour of the cups or making drinks more visually appealing.
Dehydration is also exacerbated by medicines which can deplete water and affect electrolytes in our bodies. For example, diuretics, laxatives, antihistamines and steroids.
The consequences of dehydration
- tiredness
- impaired mental function including memory, attention and concentration
- slower reaction times and dizziness, which with the elderly leads to an increased risk of falls
- low blood pressure
- constipation
- higher risk of developing skin conditions and pressure sores
- higher risk of kidney and urinary tract infections
Preventing dehydration
Our staff are very aware of the risks of dehydration and the importance of our residents staying hydrated. They know to encourage everyone to drink, even if they do not feel thirsty. Increasing awareness in a fun way, such as with tropical mocktails and a hydration promotion also really helps.
There are other ways too. Water glasses and jugs of water are always readily accessible. Eating fruit and vegetables with high water content counts as a source of fluid. In the winter especially, soups and broths give variety. More in the summer, popsicles, lollies and refreshing ice cold drinks. Changing the temperature can help encourage residents to drink.
And lets not forget a lovely cup of tea. The kettle is always on at The Lawns for a cuppa and a catch up with our residents.
The team at The Lawns in Hydration week