Dehydration is a serious condition for seniors. It’s important to know the related risk factors and the ways an assisted living community can help at-risk patients mitigate this potentially deadly affliction. Below is a brief guide to senior health and how these facilities help. 

Dehydration and Senior Health: How an Assisted Living Community Helps

Common Risk Factors

There are a number of risk factors that contribute to dehydration in the elderly. For instance, chronic diseases play a role, as do medications, lack of mobility, infections, and mental or emotional issues. Dehydration may have an underlying medical cause or come about due to mental illness or cognitive defects. Because many of these factors apply to the elderly, they are often more prone to becoming dehydrated when compared to other groups.

Incontinence Is a Contributing Factor

Seniors with incontinence issues also easily become dehydrated. This is due to a voluntary decrease in fluid intake to prevent accidents from occurring. This condition is also exacerbated by medications and other treatments. This is difficult to achieve within the home, which is why professional assistance is often recommended for seniors with a higher risk.

How an Assisted Living Community Helps

Often, the best defense against dehydration is consistent monitoring. In an assisted living facility, workers are always present to ensure residents are getting the care they need. Workers also help residents eat a proper diet, which includes fluid intake. Residents within a nursing facility can rest assured knowing any health conditions or medications that contribute to dehydration are watched closely.

When it comes to finding a suitable assisted living community for a loved one, CarePatrol in Westport, CT, utilizes an expansive network of care providers to ensure seniors are well-cared for. Call (203) 244-9562 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable representative about your specific needs. If you’d like more information on assisted living placement in the area, visit the website.