Are Popsicles Okay for Seniors?
If a senior is craving popsicles on a hot day, you may think to refuse them because of sugar and sweets, but the truth is they can be okay for seniors to consume. This is one of the best ways to avoid dehydration as your parents get older and the summer comes quicker. Dehydration is needed to focus if you are caring for an elderly loved one.
You may have offered an older loved one a drink and received the response, “Thank you, but I’m not thirsty.” Unfortunately, this reaction is often the result of a diminishing feeling of thirst associated with age, and it’s merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the danger of dehydration in older persons. It is crucial to watch how much liquid your senior is taking in and if you’re not there every day to help them while they choose to age in place, it’s time to consider elderly care assistance.
Dehydration, which is defined as the loss of fluids and electrolytes, may have devastating effects on the elderly, including, in some instances, death. Your elderly loved ones will lose that thirsty feeling, and this means they may drink much less than they used to. This is dangerous, and with the help of 24-hour home care, you may be able to monitor how much a senior are drinking together. All that being said, popsicles are okay for seniors, especially when focusing on dehydration.
Symptoms of Dehydration
The symptoms of dehydration get more severe the longer a senior doesn’t drink. If your senior isn’t drinking, you will have to find other ways to get them to ingest fluids. Flavored ice cubes can be a fun snack and, of course, popsicles. Here are the signs and symptoms of dehydration.
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- High heart rate
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Sunken eyes
- High heart rate
- Dark-colored urine
Treating dehydration can take a long time and lead to expensive hospital trips. It is much easier to watch your senior (with the right help) and prevent dehydration from happening altogether. However, if you notice these symptoms and they aren’t going away, it is time to take your senior to their doctor or nearest hospital. Dehydration can be deadly.
Strategies That Can Help With Dehydration
Take a look at these tips that will help you care for your elderly loved one.
Use Popsicles and Stock Up!
Popsicles are a favorite summertime treat that grandparents and great-grandparents like sharing with their grandkids and great-grandchildren. It can be a fun way to cool down with the family and bond with them. Additionally, all ages may appreciate water ices and fruit-based sorbets. If you are concerned about sugar, you can opt for all-natural or sugar-free. You and your loved ones can even try making these at home.
Create a Hydration Schedule
The elderly with dementia or other cognitive impairments may benefit from a documented hydration program. This may also help keep caretakers on track since elderly loved ones may be unable to remember when or if they last drank. The placement of a water bottle within easy reach is another method for reminding elderly individuals to drink.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elderly Care in Ardmore, PA, and the surrounding area please contact the friendly staff at Suma Home Care. (484) 206-4544
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