When a loved one has dementia, it’s important to focus on their diet and nutrition. These directly affect their overall well-being but are also easy to overlook—especially when considering hydration. When poor memory and cognitive decline are at play, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water.
However, helping someone with dementia stay hydrated is essential—dehydration is more common than you think. Try using spill-proof dishes, and encourage your loved one to drink small amounts of water throughout the diet. Don’t forget that many fruits and vegetables also contribute to hydration, so a healthy diet is key!
Is There a Link Between Dehydration & Dementia?
Dehydration has a significant impact on brain function. For those living with dementia, even mild dehydration can worsen cognitive decline and memory issues. This makes everyday experiences more difficult—both for your loved one and any caregivers.
Proper hydration is essential for supporting cognitive abilities. When a person is well-hydrated, it’s easier for the mind and body to work together. This helps create a strong foundation for both their physical health and their day-to-day life.
However, those with dementia face an increased risk of dehydration. They might no longer feel their thirst as strongly as before or struggle to express their needs. Even behavioral changes caused by dementia can lead to unusual behavior, like avoiding drinking altogether.
How To Recognize Dehydration In Someone With Dementia
It can be hard to notice dehydration symptoms. Some are extremely subtle, while others overlap with the cognitive symptoms of dementia. However, being able to recognize the signs of dehydration early on is key to preventing further complications.
Look for these common signs of dehydration in individuals with dementia:
- Dry mouth or cracking lips
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Dark-colored urine or infrequent urination
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sudden shifts in mood or increased confusion
Pay close attention to these signs. Small changes in behavior and physical condition often indicate something more serious. Underlying problems like dehydration can lead to a host of problems. If you suspect your loved one isn’t drinking enough water, it’s time to step in.
How Much Water Should Someone With Dementia Drink?
So how much water should your loved one drink? The specific amount varies, but in general, older adults benefit from 9-13 cups of fluids each day. For someone with dementia, though, finding the right amount may require some extra considerations. Several factors may come into play that affect the specific number, such as:
- Their weight and size
- Medical conditions or medications
- Activity level during the day
- Weather or temperature changes
For example, certain medications may increase water loss in the body, making them require more fluids to compensate. In other situations, your loved one might need more water during hotter summer months or if they love somewhere try.
Don’t forget to pay attention to their taste preferences as well. It helps to offer different options throughout the day—this makes staying hydrated feel like less of a chore. Try to naturally work it into their routine, and you can make a significant difference.
Tips For Helping Someone With Dementia Stay Hydrated
Keeping someone with dementia hydrated is often easier than it might seem. It’s about creating a routine that makes drinking easier and more enjoyable. Don’t just encourage drinking water—try making the habit a consistent part of their everyday life.
Start by offering drinks regularly throughout the day. This can be as simple as pairing a glass of water with meals or handing them a small cup every couple of hours. If they struggle with water, think about changing it up—brightly-colored cups, different beverages, or even temperature changes can encourage regular hydration.
You can also explore alternative ways to add hydration to their diet, such as:
- Serving foods with high water content, like watermelon, cucumbers, or oranges
- Offering milk, herbal teas, or soups as alternate fluid options
- Using a reusable bottle or cup that’s easy for them to hold and sip from
- Setting reminders or alarms for regular hydration breaks
- Monitoring their intake to ensure they’re drinking enough fluids each day
Remember—every person is unique. What works for one person may not work as well for another. Be flexible and consistent, and you’ll soon find something that works!
Helping Your Loved One Stay Healthy Every Day
Supporting someone with dementia means thinking of all kinds of details like hydration. It’s an essential part of their everyday health, and every small effort helps! Your loved one deserves comfort, health, and a high quality of life, and staying hydrated makes a difference.
If you’re looking for support, contact our team at The Bridges at Bent Creek. We’re here to help keep your loved one safe and healthy every day. Schedule a visit with us today—we’re ready to help!
