Hydration is a critical component of staying healthy and comfortable as you age, and it's particularly important for seniors living with diabetes. While other seniors may struggle to get enough fluids throughout the day, diabetic seniors often find it even more difficult because of their condition. Fortunately, there are several strategies seniors with diabetes and their caretakers can use to improve overall hydration.
Why Diabetic Seniors Face Challenges Staying Hydrated
Diabetes is associated with a higher risk of dehydration primarily due to frequent urination and sweating brought on by high or low blood glucose levels. High blood sugar can result in excessive electrolyte loss as the body attempts to regulate glucose levels, leading to increased urination and thirst. Low blood sugar also leads to excessive water loss from the cells, resulting in dehydration symptoms like rapid breathing, exhaustion, and confusion.
Impaired thirst sensation is another common side effect of diabetes and age-related decrease in kidney function. This makes it more difficult for them to recognize when they need fluids throughout the day, even if their bodies actually require them. Finally, some medications taken for other chronic conditions can contribute even further towards dehydration if not monitored closely.
Strategies for Addressing Poor Hydration
There are several strategies caretakers can use to help ensure diabetic seniors stay hydrated. These include:
- Monitor Blood Glucose Levels: Regular monitoring of the senior's blood sugar is important to identify any excessive urination and thirst that may occur when levels become high or low. Keeping blood sugar levels can also help decrease these symptoms.
- Make Healthy Beverage Choices: Encourage consuming more water as well as other beverages with electrolytes like sports drinks, coconut water, and vegetable juices. Avoid sugary sodas and sugar-laden juices.
- Keep Water and Healthy Beverages Available: Make sure water bottles and snacks encouraging replenishing fluids are placed in convenient locations throughout areas frequented by your senior loved one during their daily routines. Experiment to see what size glasses or bottles work best for your senior loved one: some will do best with a large bottle, while others may prefer smaller containers throughout the day.
- Track Fluid Intake Each Day: A written log or a reminder system within an app can be used to keep track of how much fluid intake the senior has between meals.
- Maintain Reasonable Activity Levels: Exercise is essential for overall health. However, seniors with diabetes may need to carefully increase activity levels rather than jumping into hardcore exercise all at once. Seniors may also benefit from slowing down or engaging in indoor sports during the hot summer months, when dehydration may grow to a bigger problem.
In-Home Care for Seniors with Diabetes
Seniors with diabetes may require more assistance with a variety of daily tasks, including ensuring that they stay properly hydrated. If you or a senior loved one need extra assistance at home, Senior Helpers Greenfield can help. We offer in-home care services for seniors in Greenfield, Indianapolis, and Anderson. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how they can benefit your family.