Questions and Answers
Q. We took my grandfather to the ER because we thought he was having a stroke, but it turned out he was dehydrated. The nurse suggested we try to give him popsicles and lemonade, which I’m certain my grandfather will not have. He drinks a lot of coffee, but shouldn’t we just make him drink lots and lots of water instead?
A. If you can discover a way to make someone drink lots of water when they aren’t used to doing so, or don’t want to, then that’s great. However, I’m sure the ER personnel are very familiar with how resistant some people can be to drinking water, hence their creative suggestions to try to increase your grandfather’s fluid intake overall.
We all need to make a habit of drinking more water because it helps our bodies function on all levels. This is especially true in the summer months. Older generations are not as used to consuming water as those who have grown up in the age of the water bottle. Additionally, many older individuals drink tea and coffee, thinking they are getting enough fluids that way, when in reality the caffeine in these drinks tends to be dehydrating in nature. And as we age, we become more susceptible to dehydration due to chronic disease, medicines we take, a reduced sensation of thirst, and decreased mobility.
If your grandfather isn’t interested in drinking lemonade or eating popsicles, other ideas might include: fresh fruit with high water content, such as grapes and watermelon; flavored water or fruit infused water; jello; sorbet; soups low in sodium; and juices. Start a good habit by linking water consumption to a common daily activity such as drinking milk or juice instead of coffee or tea at meals, drinking a full glass of water to take medications, rather than just a couple sips, and drinking a replenishing glass of water with each trip to the bathroom. You can help by being encouraging rather than dictating and by making sure he has ready access to fluids. Provide a variety of drink and snack choices, on hand and nearby, perhaps adding a mini-fridge in the bedroom or sitting area for easier accessibility. Set a good example, sit down and have a glass of lemonade with him and help him discover how much better he will feel when he is properly hydrated!
Be sure to keep cool, hydrated, and safe during hot summer months —- this is especially true for vulnerable populations, including older adults and persons with disabilities.
According to the website www.ready.gov, extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. Humidity increases the feeling of heat. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.
Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and ways to respond. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for advice and shelter in place if you can. If you are experiencing a medical emergency call 9-1-1.
Heat Stroke Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally; red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness. If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Heat Cramps Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs
Heat Exhaustion Signs: Heavy sweating; paleness; muscle cramps; tiredness; weakness; fast or weak pulse; dizziness; headache; fainting; nausea and/or vomiting.
If you have signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, go to a cooler location, and cool down by removing excess clothing and taking sips of sports drinks or water. Call your healthcare provider if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.