Introduction
During a heatwave, the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the ravages of the heat. Their bodies lose more water, and their water requirements are harder to meet. Seniors are therefore more at risk of developing severe dehydration. However, there are a number of ways of preventing this.
What should be done in the event of dehydration?
When an elderly person shows signs of mild dehydration (dry lips, discomfort, dark circles around the eyes, etc.), they should be moved to a cool, airy place. Next, remove any tight or superfluous clothing, cool them down with a wet cloth applied to the forehead and help them to drink.
Water remains the best remedy for dehydration. However, coconut water, warm, lightly salted vegetable broths, skimmed milk or Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) sold in pharmacies can also be used.
Some elderly people are more susceptible to severe dehydration than others. It is therefore important to pay close attention to people who are isolated, suffering from illnesses such as dementia, diabetes, high blood pressure, diarrhoea or vomiting, taking medication, having difficulty moving or sweating excessively.
If the signs persist, the first thing to do is go to the nearest health centre.
How can dehydration be prevented?
The key to preventing dehydration in hot weather is to eat properly and adopt appropriate lifestyle habits.
When it comes to diet
It’s crucial to make sure you drink the equivalent of 2 litres a day, regularly and without waiting until you’re thirsty. It is advisable to drink mineral water at room temperature, as cool water limits the evacuation of heat already stored in the body. Drinks with too much sugar, alcohol, coffee, tea and soft drinks should be avoided, as they increase urine production. Some elderly people suffering from incontinence deliberately refuse to drink. They can be helped by playing down the situation and referring them to a health worker.
Half of our water intake comes from food. The diet should therefore include plenty of water-rich fruit and vegetables (watermelon, strawberries, citrus fruit, tomatoes, courgettes, cucumbers), cold soups, yoghurts and skimmed milk to ensure prolonged hydration.
In terms of lifestyle habits, we recommend :
- Wet your body regularly, either with cool showers or by spraying your face and neck,
- stay in the shade during hot weather and avoid strenuous activities,
- wear wide-brimmed hats and prefer loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
Conclusion
Severe dehydration can be prevented by simple everyday measures that are often overlooked. So don’t hesitate to apply them when the heat is on, especially for the elderly. Innovative, fun solutions to help our senior citizens stay hydrated also exist and can be used.
