Nursing home care: I'm worried my mum is dehydrated

As we age changes occur that make us vulnerable to dehydration. Our kidneys don't function as efficiently and we lose our sense of thirst, the main way our body tells us that we need more fluids.

For people who don't drink adequate fluids dehydration can happen very quickly and can lead to serious medical problems in as little as a few days.

What causes dehydration?

Many factors can contribute to dehydration. Nursing home residents can have multiple underlying health conditions that coupled with the side effects of medication contribute to poor oral health and hydration.

Nursing home residents are more likely to have problems getting adequate fluids. People with Parkinson's disease, dementia and stroke can have problems swallowing or feeding themselves.

Some people simply do not have the urge to drink fluids or in the case of dementia no longer understand the function of a cup and need constant prompting. Older people can also deliberately restrict fluids fearing an incontinence accident. 

Ensuring nursing home residents get adequate fluids is a full-time job for most nursing home staff. Nursing homes with poor staff numbers and inadequate supervision can mean less time is given for feeding the most vulnerable residents.

Tips to encourage fluids

• Anyone in a nursing home at risk of dehydration should have a hydration program in place. This should be documented in a care plan, ask a registered nurse for details
   
• Check water jugs are changed daily and within reach by the bedside
   
• Offer a drink before mealtimes and cup of tea after meals
   
• Try offering iceblocks in summer and soup in winter
   
• Try varying the shape of a cup. Use spill-proof cups, straws or cups with handles
   
• Place cups of water around the house for people with dementia to remind them to drink
   
• Ensure you have a drink bottle handy on trips to the shops or long car trips