Dementia can cause many difficulties for its sufferers, including a lack of ability to stay hydrated. It is important for those with dementia to stay hydrated since their bodies are already dealing with a lot. The following are some tips that can help you ensure the dementia patient in your life stays hydrated by drinking enough water.

Prepare Beforehand

The first and most important step in getting dementia patients to drink water is preparation. Before giving water to a dementia patient, make sure to have the proper materials. A cup or glass that is of an appropriate size should be available. Additionally, a straw or drinking aid may be beneficial for some dementia patients. Those with limited hand-eye coordination may find it easier to drink using a straw.

Set a Schedule

Creating a schedule for the dementia patient is key to ensuring they stay hydrated. Fill a cup or glass with water and give it to the patient at regular intervals throughout the day. It is also helpful to make sure that the water is always within reach. This way the patient has easy access to it, and it will remind them to drink it.

Keep Track of Hydration

It is important to pay attention to the amount of water the patient is drinking. Too little water can lead to dehydration, while too much can cause water intoxication. Monitor the patient's fluid intake and make note of any changes. If they seem to be consistently not drinking enough, it may be a good idea to speak with their doctor.

Use Flavorings

If the dementia patient is not enthusiastic about drinking water, try adding some flavorings. This can be as simple as adding a few slices of lemon to the water or even adding a bit of juice. Some patients may respond better to flavored waters, such as fruit-infused water. Experiment with a few different flavorings to find one that the patient enjoys.

Know Their Limits

It is important to remember that dementia patients may not be able to drink large quantities of water at once. Be mindful of their capacity, and try to give them smaller portions at a time. Remember, it is more important to make sure they are drinking steadily and consistently throughout the day.

Encourage Drinking

It is important to reinforce the behavior of drinking water. If the dementia patient is drinking water, make sure to give them praise and encouragement. Not only will this make them feel better, but it will also encourage them to continue drinking water. Additionally, providing rewards or incentives may help to motivate them.

Be Patient

It is important to be patient when helping a dementia patient stay hydrated. Remember, dementia can cause a variety of difficulties and it can take time for the patient to adjust to drinking water. If the patient seems resistant to drinking, try to remain patient and understanding. Dementia patients can often pick up on negative emotions, so try to remain positive and encouraging.

Conclusion

Staying hydrated is important for dementia patients, but it can be a difficult task. Preparing ahead of time, setting a schedule, keeping track of hydration, flavoring the water, knowing their limits, encouraging drinking, and being patient are all important steps to ensure the patient stays hydrated. By taking the proper steps, you can help ensure the dementia patient in your life stays hydrated.