Newsletter - Summer Staycation
Preventing Dehydration in Seniors
When a person uses or loses more water and other fluids than their body takes in, they face a condition called dehydration. Left unchecked, dehydration can become life-threatening. Here are ways family members and caregivers can help prevent dehydration in older loved ones:
- Keep fluids in a water bottle or lidded cup with a straw near the senior day and night.
- Check regularly that the senior’s urine is light-colored and output is sufficient.
- Serve a variety of high-water-content foods such as fruits, soups, broths, vegetables and smoothies.
- The senior should not skip meals. Much of a senior’s fluids comes from foods.
- Ensure the elderly loved one avoids the consumption of caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.
- In warmer weather, schedule outdoor activities for the cooler part of the day.
- Monitor the senior’s daily fluid intake by creating a hydration schedule. It is better for the senior to sip liquids every hour than drink extra at a meal.
- Consult with the senior’s doctor about changing medications if the elder is taking laxatives or diuretics.
Right at Home of East and South Atlanta, a leading provider of in-home care and assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities, helps clients stay consistently well-hydrated, safe and comfortable at home.
Summer Staycation at Westbury Medical Care and Rehab
Westbury Medical Care and Rehab hosted a Summer "Stay"-cation and Pizza Party for their residents and guests last week. Right at Home Community Outreach Liaison, Jack Moon, attended. Jack is pictured here with nursing staff from the facility.
Myla Visits Lake City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Right at Home East Atlanta Agency Director, Mark Ross, Community Outreach Liaison Jack Moon, and Myla, our Registered Therapy Dog, visited Lake City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Morrow in July. Mark and Myla are pictured below enjoying the visit with residents.
You can read more about Myla's therapy dog training, or follow her everyday canine caregiver adventures on Facebook.