Are Your Loved Ones Drinking Enough Water?

For older adults in Altrincham, Sale and Wythenshawe, staying hydrated can be a real challenge, especially for those living with dementia, mobility difficulties, or conditions such as Parkinson’s.. As we age, our natural thirst response weakens, and some medications or health conditions can increase fluid loss.

This topic feels especially close to home for me. My Uncle Joe, who lives with dementia, recently spent time in hospital with a suspected UTI. Like many older relatives, he’s faced added health complications that make hydration and nutrition even more important and sometimes more difficult.

At Home Instead Altrincham, Sale & Wythenshawe, we help clients stay well through consistent support with drinks, hydrating meals, and thoughtful daily routines. But it raises an important question: how do you support older adults who may be resistant to change when it comes to diet and fluid intake?

In this blog, we share practical advice for families and carers on spotting signs of dehydration, making good food and drink choices, and encouraging healthy habits in a way that feels gentle and familiar.

Dehydration can often set in gradually, making it important to remain alert to early warning signs. These include:

• Dry mouth and lips
• Headaches or dizziness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Fatigue or low energy
• Constipation
• Dark-coloured urine or reduced urination

If left unchecked, dehydration can also affect blood pressure and heart rate and increase the risk of falls or infections. When dehydration is mistaken for a progression in a health condition such as dementia, opportunities for early support may be missed. This makes awareness and early intervention absolutely vital.

While increasing fluid intake is important, it’s also worth being mindful of certain drinks and foods that can have the opposite effect. In moderation, these can be enjoyed safely, but it helps to be aware of how they might affect hydration:

• Caffeinated beverages, such as strong tea or coffee, can have a mild diuretic effect and may contribute to fluid loss in larger quantities. look to swap to decaffeinated, we put this in place for my Uncle Joe, it also helped with his sleep patterns.  
• Alcohol should be limited, particularly in warm weather, as it significantly increases water loss from the body.
• Salty or processed snacks, like crisps or salted nuts, can lead to increased thirst and discomfort.
• High-protein diets without adequate fluids can place extra demand on the kidneys and require more water to process efficiently.

Our approach focuses on balance. We never recommend completely cutting out favourite treats, but we do ensure these are paired with plenty of fluids and fresh, hydrating choices throughout the day.

At Home Instead Altrincham, Sale & Wythenshawe, we believe in a holistic approach to care that supports body, mind and emotional wellbeing. When it comes to hydration, we:

• Prompt and support fluid intake throughout the day and evening.
• Prepare hydrating foods and adapt menus to suit individual preferences.
• Use hydration charts and care notes to monitor patterns and flag any concerns.
• Encourage regular social interaction around meals and drinks.
• Offer practical tools such as easy-grip mugs, lidded cups, and bedside water jugs.
• Train all care professionals in recognising the early signs of dehydration.

This is especially important for clients living with long-term conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s or those recovering from hospital treatment. We work closely with family members, GPs, and allied health professionals to deliver joined-up, person-centred care.

Many older adults wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Home Instead offers a dignified and compassionate alternative to residential care. Whether it’s a daily visit, companionship at mealtimes, or round-the-clock support, we tailor every care plan to meet individual needs.

Our care professionals are trained, trusted and carefully matched with each client. We build strong, reliable relationships that bring comfort and continuity. And with a dedicated office team just a phone call away, families can reach out for support or guidance at any time.