How Can I Keep Husband with Dementia Hydrated in This Heat?
Dear Carol: My husband is in mid-stage Alzheimer’s. While there are many challenges, my most urgent question right now is how can I keep him hydrated in this extreme heat? It’s dangerous for older adults, and worse for someone with dementia. He seems to have no thirst response at all, so he forgets to drink fluids. When I try to coax him, he tells me that he just drank a big glass of water. I’m with him all day, so I know what he drinks, and he hasn’t had a big glass of water for years. He’s at high risk for urinary tract infections, so water is essential for him. Do you have any tips for getting him to drink more fluids? Thank you! – GK
Dear GK: The day-to-day tasks that go into good dementia care can be overwhelming, with keeping an eye on fluids being one of many challenges.
As you know, extreme heat is threatening to older adults because, like much regarding the aging process, the mechanism that helps the body adjust to temperature changes becomes less responsive. Older adults like your husband often have weaker thirst…
Tips for caregivers:
SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence. Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “I hold onto your book as a life preserver and am reading it slowly on purpose…I don’t want it to end.” …Craig William Dayton, Film Composer
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
