Dehydration and Seniors

Donna Nichols • August 12, 2021

Tips on Prevention and Treatment

Staying hydrated is so important for everyone, but especially more important for seniors.

A lot of seniors will just sometimes forget to drink enough and that makes it even harder to ensure they are hydrated. For seniors, good hydration ensures their medications work properly.

Some health risks that come with dehydration:

  • shock
  • heatstroke
  • fainting
  • seizures
  • kidney failure or stones
  • urinary tract infections.

Of course, these can happen in anyone, but when you’re older you can’t fight them off like you used to.

Also, when you’re older you don’t realize you’re dehydrated because seniors have less efficient kidneys so the urine contains more water and seniors have a decreased ability to keep fluids in balance with their bodies.

Tips for Prevention and Treatment of dehydration in Seniors

Symptoms of dehydration

Here are some of the symptoms of dehydration. There are mild and severe symptoms; mild symptoms can usually be rectified by you or someone else, severe symptoms require medical assistance.

Mild Symptoms

  1. Dry mouth
  2. Tiredness
  3. Infrequent urination
  4. Dizziness
  5. Headaches
  6. Irritability

The best way to treat mild dehydration is by replacing the lost fluids with drinking water or another liquid containing electrolytes.

Do NOT drink sugary liquids such as sodas .

Severe Symptoms

  1. Bloated stomach
  2. Low blood pressure
  3. Convulsions
  4. Severe cramping
  5. Confusion
  6. Dry, sunken eyes

The only way to treat severe symptoms of dehydration is by an IV with electrolytes and salt.

PLEASE seek immediate medical assistance.

How much water do seniors need?

You can figure how much water you need to drink pretty easily; you divide your body weight in half to get the number of ounces you need to drink a day.

For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you would need to drink 80 ounces of water. A glass holds 8 ounces, so you would need to drink 10 glasses of water a day.

Benefits of drinking enough water

Drinking enough water can help keep you healthy, but can also help with the following:

  • Less constipation
  • Fewer falls
  • Less urinary tract infections
  • Reduced risk of colorectal cancer

If you’re planning on being outside, especially here in Ormond Beach, Florida , your water intake will need to be considerably higher. The heat and sun can drain your body of the fluids you need and you can become dehydrated quickly.

Do not drink cold water too quickly, it can actually make you sick as it can cause your body to go into shock. This is rare and pretty severe, but it can happen. So just be careful.

I always drink room temperature water when on the golf course. One day it was extremely hot and I thought I’d take some cold water, BIG mistake.

Yes, it tasted so good and it was very refreshing, but I drank it so quickly that I was sick to my stomach and almost vomited. I stick with the room temperature water from now on and have iced tea when I go inside.

Please make sure your loved one stays hydrated, it’s so important to their health and well-being!

Should you notice signs of dehydration, PLEASE seek assistance immediately!!

Stay hydrated my friends!!!

If you’re looking for other senior living articles and resources then click here.

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Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
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