Staying Hydrated in the Summer for the Elderly

In July, warmer weather across East Dorset brings more than sunshine. It also raises the risk of dehydration, especially for older adults receiving care at home in Blandford, Ferndown, Wimborne, and surrounding areas. Whether someone is living with dementia, Parkinson’s, or has reduced mobility, staying hydrated often requires a little extra support. At Home Instead East Dorset, our care team helps older people stay safe, well, and comfortable by making hydration an easy and consistent part of daily life. In this blog, we explore the signs of dehydration, highlight drinks and foods that support hydration, and offer practical tips for families and carers to help their loved ones feel their best this summer.

We’ll look at why hydration becomes more important with age, which foods and drinks to include or limit, and how simple habits and routines can make a real difference to daily wellbeing.

Knowing what to look out for can help families and carers intervene before dehydration leads to a crisis. Signs include:

• Dry mouth or chapped lips
• Dark or infrequent urine
• Tiredness or low energy
• Difficulty standing up or walking
• Confusion or mood changes
• Rapid heartbeat or breathing
• Dizziness or fainting

In more serious cases, dehydration can result in severe weakness, bloating, or fever. If in doubt, seek medical attention quickly, especially if the person is also unwell with an infection or recovering from surgery.

Water is the simplest and most effective drink — but it doesn’t have to be plain. Here are some great options to encourage hydration:

• Still or sparkling water — served cool, warm, or infused with fruit
• Herbal teas — such as peppermint or chamomile
• Diluted squash — ideally with low sugar
• Milk — including oat or almond alternatives
• Soup or broth — especially in colder months
• Smoothies — a fun way to combine hydration with nutrition
• Oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte powders (GP-approved, especially after illness)

Try to aim for 6–8 drinks per day — little and often is more manageable than large drinks all at once.

Eating the right foods can significantly support hydration, especially for those who struggle to drink enough:

• Cucumber (over 95% water)
• Watermelon
• Strawberries and blueberries
• Cherry tomatoes
• Oranges and apples
• Lettuce, celery, and courgette
• Soups and stews
• Jelly (low sugar varieties)
• Yoghurts and puddings

These can be built into snacks and meals throughout the day. At Home Instead East Dorset, we often suggest keeping cut fruit in the fridge or within easy reach to nibble on during the day.

We’re proud to support community-led awareness campaigns like Dorset’s “Every Drop Counts”, which highlights the importance of regular hydration, particularly in older populations.

Key recommendations from the campaign include:

• Drink 6–8 times per day, even if you’re not thirsty
• Include water-rich foods in every meal
• Limit alcohol and caffeine
• Support friends and loved ones by making water accessible and reminding them gently
• Seek help early if signs of dehydration appear

Hydration supports wound healing, digestion, heart health, and cognitive clarity, all essential to wellbeing and independence.

Helping someone stay hydrated may feel like a small gesture, but it’s one of the most meaningful ways to support health, safety, and comfort in later life.

Remember:

• Hydration supports memory, mood, balance, and digestion
• Older adults may not recognise they’re thirsty
• Simple habits can make all the difference
• Supportive, respectful care can help people drink enough each day

If you’re concerned about an older relative’s hydration, or need some extra support, our team is here to help.

Because every sip matters.