Hydration Tips for Older Adults

As we get older, our bodies become less efficient at managing fluids. But the challenge is more than biological. Several overlapping factors can make it harder for older people to drink enough each day:

Reduced Thirst Sensation

The sensation of thirst becomes less reliable with age. That means many older adults don’t realise they’re becoming dehydrated until symptoms appear, often when their fluid levels are already below optimal.

Medication Side Effects

Common medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease can lead to increased fluid loss. Diuretics (often called water tablets), in particular, flush fluids from the body, but may not come with clear instructions to increase drinking.

Mobility and Access

For those with arthritis, limited strength, or reduced mobility, getting up to fetch a drink can be difficult. If someone lives alone, they may not want to keep going back and forth, especially if they’re already tired or feeling unwell.

Fear of Incontinence

Worries about bladder control or needing the toilet too often may lead some people to limit their fluid intake on purpose, which can unintentionally reduce intake further of dehydration and greater health risks.

Dementia or Cognitive Impairment

Older adults with dementia may not remember to drink or recognise they are thirsty. Some may even forget where drinks are kept or lose interest in fluid intake altogether. This makes gentle encouragement and support even more important.

Hydration isn’t just about comfort, it directly affects how well the body functions. For older adults, not drinking enough increases the risk of:

• Falls: Dehydration can cause dizziness and low blood pressure, making falls more likely, especially dangerous for frail individuals.

• Hospital Admissions: People who are dehydrated often recover more slowly from illness and are more likely to need hospital care.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): These are more common and severe in those who don’t drink enough, and can lead to hospitalisation or delirium.

• Kidney Strain: Long-term dehydration puts pressure on the kidneys, which can cause permanent damage over time.

• Cognitive Changes: Even mild dehydration can affect memory, attention, and mood, worsening symptoms for those already living with dementia.

• Slow Healing and Skin Damage: Poor hydration affects skin integrity, increasing the risk of pressure sores or infections.

While some drinks may seem hydrating, others can have the opposite effect:

• Caffeinated drinks like strong tea or coffee can increase fluid loss if consumed in excess.

• Alcohol, including beer and wine, acts as a diuretic and should be limited, particularly in warm weather.

• Salty snacks (crisps, processed meals) can make dehydration worse and increase thirst, especially if someone then doesn’t drink enough afterwards.

Encouraging more balanced snacks, such as fresh fruit, unsalted nuts, or oatcakes with hummus, can help reduce this risk.

In South Manchester, community groups, health professionals and care organisations are working together to tackle the hidden dangers of dehydration. The Manchester Local Care Organisation has teamed up with groups like Age UK Salford to support hydration education, including during national events like Nutrition and Hydration Week.

Local efforts include:

• Cooking workshops focused on hydration-friendly meals

• Mocktail sessions for residents who want non-alcoholic social drinks

• Resources like Age UK’s “Eat, Drink, Live Well” booklet

• Special support for people with memory loss or difficulty swallowing

These local actions help make hydration something enjoyable, not clinical, for older people and their families.

Helping an older person stay hydrated isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about protecting their health, dignity, and comfort.

At Home Instead South Manchester, we believe that small steps, like offering a cup of tea or preparing a fruity smoothie, can make a big difference. Whether you’re a family member, a friend, or part of a care team, staying alert to hydration needs helps prevent serious illness and keeps daily life more comfortable.

Need help supporting a loved one at home? Our care professionals are trained to provide thoughtful, consistent, hydration-focused support alongside personal care, dementia assistance, and companionship.