Preventing Dehydration & Appetite Loss in Senior Years with the Help from Comfort Keepers

Dehydration and appetite loss are very common among seniors – these issues can occur for a number of reasons, including medical problems, medication side effects, forgetfulness, and others. If you are worried that your loved one is not eating well or not drinking enough water, it is first important to figure out what may be causing a loss of appetite or dehydration and then work toward solving the problem. Comfort Keepers can be invaluable in preventing appetite loss and dehydration and making sure your parent is leading a healthy lifestyle as they age.

What Causes Appetite Loss & Dehydration?

Here are the most common reasons why seniors lose appetite or get dehydrated:

• Not having enough energy to cook healthy meals
• Diminished sense of taste
• Chronic medical problems or mobility issues
• Problems with dentures
• Financial difficulty

How Can You Tell If Your Loved One Lost Appetite or Is Dehydrated?

The most common signs of a loss of appetite or dehydration in seniors are:  

• Cramps
• Dry skin
• Fatigue
• Dark urine
• Vertigo  

How to Increase Appetite in Seniors?

There are a couple of ways to increase your loved one’s appetite, including engaging in physical activity, sharing a meal with someone, and speaking with a medical professional.

If you are not sure how to help your loved one maintain a healthy appetite, Comfort Keepers home care services can offer all the support your family needs. A dedicated caregiver can develop an exercise plan for your loved one, supervising exercise sessions, and accompany them for walks. A caregiver can also prepare healthy meals for your parent, keeping them company during mealtime, and ensure they are drinking eight glasses of water per day. Finally, a caregiver can also take notice of any changes in your loved one’s appetite, notifying you in case there is an apparent appetite loss.

Comfort Keepers home care services are personalized, so your loved one can get all the care they need whenever they need it. And with a caregiver around to assist with daily tasks, keep company, and be on the lookout for any changes in diet, your loved one can easily prevent a loss of appetite and dehydration, staying healthy and happy for years to come!