Skip to main content

Avoiding the dehydration.

 This July heat has been kicking my butt and I know I am terrible and am not drinking enough water. Knowing it and correcting it are 2 different things. All I can think is if I struggle this much... How are my residents doing if they don't realize how little they drink, are not aware of how much they drink, or can not even assist themselves with drinks. 

People over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of dehydration. Other risk factors include medications, decreased sensation for thirst, chronic illness, and inability to drink by themselves. These are the residents we want to pick out and ensure their needs are met. We can educate, develop habits, and my favorite, a fluid intake chart. This will give a visual of how much fluids a resident is actually intaking. 

Did you know that all liquids can count toward fluid intake when trying to beat dehydration? If you cannot convince someone to drink water try adding flavor, popsicles, ice cream even. 


Feel free to grab my free fluid intake chart. It has helpful tips on increasing fluid intake. Laminate it and it can be used over and  over with an expo marker. Have staff fill it out or if the resident is able then give that care back to them!

Feel free to leave any other tips and tricks below on how you help beat dehydration. I love learning from others. 


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Understanding the Allen Cognitive Levels: Abilities for Independence

  Understanding the Allen Cognitive Levels: Abilities for Independence When supporting individuals with cognitive impairments—whether from dementia, brain injury, or developmental disabilities—understanding their functional abilities is crucial. The Allen Cognitive Levels (ACL) , developed by occupational therapist Claudia Allen, provide a framework for assessing cognitive function and determining the level of assistance a person may need in daily life. The ACLs are divided into six major levels , each describing a person’s capacity for independence and problem-solving: Level 1: Automatic Actions Individuals at this level respond primarily to internal cues and may require total assistance. Their abilities are limited to basic life-sustaining actions, like swallowing or responding to pain. Independence is not possible. Level 2: Postural Actions People can sit, stand, and move in response to proprioceptive cues but need maximum assistance. They may pace or wander and require 24...
Post a Comment
Read more

Why Choose a U-Step Walker? A Game-Changer for Stability and Confidence

  Why Choose a U-Step Walker? A Game-Changer for Stability and Confidence Mobility challenges can significantly impact a person’s independence, but the right assistive device can make all the difference. The U-Step walker is a uniquely designed mobility aid that offers enhanced stability, safety, and control—especially for individuals with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or balance disorders. Top Benefits of a U-Step Walker 1. Superior Stability The U-shaped base surrounds the user, providing a low center of gravity and reducing the risk of tipping. This design offers more stability than standard walkers, making it ideal for those who struggle with balance or freezing episodes. 2. Laser Cueing Technology One standout feature is the optional laser light that projects a line on the floor—helping users overcome "freezing" episodes common in Parkinson’s by offering a visual cue to step over. This can make walking smoother and safer. 3....
Post a Comment
Read more