Sarah Marin-Mayor recalls that “the tissues containing the mosteau are, in descending order: brain, lungs, kidneys, blood, heart, muscles, liver and skin“. She also explains that “Water losses are: renal or urinary, faecal, pulmonary (the air that we reject through our lungs contains water), and cutaneous: by perspiration (micro-droplets of water on the surface of the skin) or by sweat. Death can occur if the body loses more than 15% of its weight in water“. We therefore understand the importance of drinking regularly for all human beings.
Why is it difficult for the elderly to drink during hot weather?
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Sarah Marin-Mayor:“As we age feelings of thirst are less and less felt so it is less obvious to detect the thirst and the need or desire to drink. However, water needs are identical to those of adults. Older people who live in air-conditioned places are, by force of circumstances, less hot and therefore feel even less thirsty.
The addiction factordecrease inautonomy is also to be taken into consideration: an elderly person who has difficulty moving around and who does not have anything to drink nearby will, in fact, drink much less than a completely independent elderly person.
Incontinence problems are also a reason why older people drink less: the fear of being in an uncomfortable situation can lead to to drink less.
The risk of misdirection should also be taken into account in the elderly. This is why host institutions often offer gelled waters to their residents.”
What are the risks for them if they don’t drink enough?
Sarah Marin-Mayor: “The water reserves of the elderly are less important than before. The amount of water present in the body decreases with age. The dehydration is therefore a significant risk and with it the lack of mineral salts which would have damaging consequences for vital organs such as the brain or the heart. A drop in blood pressure and a racing pulse are signs to watch carefully. They can then lead to a potentially dramatic bad fall.”
What do you advise them?
Sarah Marin-Mayor: “First, always leave a bottle of water within sight and within reach. Then, setting up a small ritual throughout the day can be interesting. Remember to have a glass of water before shopping, on returning from a walk, with each advertisement… The entourage also has a role to play by offering snacks to meet and hydrate in a friendly atmosphere.”