Another day of hot weather and heat in Dallas, even though the thermometer will only be 97 it will feel like it is 104.  Don’t forget to check on your elderly friends and relatives to be sure they are staying cool and well hydrated.  Some seniors living on fixed incomes try to save money by turning off their air conditioning and relying only on fans.  This may not be the best way to save money.  Depending on their health and medications, this decision could send them to the hospital ultimately costing them more than the electricity for the air conditioning would have cost.  You don’t have to be exercising or out working in the sun to become overheated and dehydrated.  Dehydration can happen to anyone. Our bodies require fluids to carry on normal cellular activities and to keep us cool by sweating.  Seniors sometimes experience a loss of taste so they don’t readily respond to their body’s natural cues for food and drink.  Saying nothing tastes good.  Chronic pain and lack of mobility can also prevent a senior from drinking fluids even when they are thirsty.  Getting up to get a drink of water is so difficult or painful that they intentionally restrict their fluids to decrease the number of trips to the bathroom.  Check on seniors frequently to make sure that they are cool.  Remind them that they need fluids through out the day and not just one or two sips.  Make sure that they have easy access to a bathroom or bedside commode.  Seek immediate medical attention if you find a senior that is dehydrated and in distress.

Signs of Dehydration

Dry, sticky mouth
Thirst
Confusion
Headache
Disorientation
Decreased urine output

Nothing found at this website should be construed as medical advice or treatment recommendations.   For any symptoms you may have, you should see a medical professional.