How to Prevent Elderly Dehydration? Gadgets that actually work

Seniors have a very serious problem as they age: they are not taking in enough water which causes dehydration. In fact, many seniors take so little water that by the time they are thirsty, it is usually a symptom of early dehydration. Fortunately, nowadays there are many amazing new devices for almost everything. In this post, you will get to know some amazing devices that can really help and encourage seniors to drink more water.

We made a list of some of the latest gadgets that can eventually prevent elderly dehydration. To make this list, we focused on affordable, easy-to-use gadgets and apps. Check it out!

How To Prevent Elderly Dehydration

There are many ways to help you drink more water including having a “to-do list” that includes “Drink more water”. However, increasing your water intake is not as easy as it seems. It is even harder for the elderly, who may have issues with dementia and other conditions that may make them forgetful. They also tend to have a reduced sensation of thirst.

With that in mind, some high-tech gadgets were invented in order to help seniors drink fluids and keep themselves hydrated.

There are several gadgets that you can use to help the elderly drink more water and eventually prevent your elderly relative from succumbing to dehydration.

These range from high-tech drinking water reminder apps and clocks that always remind the elderly to take their daily dose of fluids and smart water bottles, to simple “smart” bottles that improve the drinking experience and make seniors more likely to drink. 

By using smart gadgets, you can help the elderly get their recommended water intake. This can be done either by having apps that track their fluid intake or by having digital reminders that remind them to take water at given intervals.

Types of Gadgets to Prevent Elderly Dehydration

Preventing dehydration among seniors is crucial for their health and well-being. While there are no specific gadgets designed solely for this purpose, several existing technologies and gadgets can help seniors stay hydrated:

Smart Water Bottles: These bottles are equipped with sensors that remind seniors to drink water at regular intervals. Besides, they often sync with smartphones to provide notifications and track water intake.

Water Dispenser with a Timer: Seniors can benefit from having a water dispenser with a built-in timer. Plus, such devices remind them to drink water at specific intervals and dispense water with a simple push of a button.

Water-Infusing Bottles: These bottles allow seniors to infuse water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables, making it more appealing and encouraging them to drink more.

Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers: Many smartwatches and fitness trackers come with hydration tracking features. In addition, these devices monitor physical activities and can remind seniors to drink water based on their activity levels and the weather.

Temperature-Sensitive Cups: Some cups change color or have indicators based on the temperature of the liquid inside. Moreover, this can help seniors identify if their beverage is too hot or too cold, encouraging them to drink water at a suitable temperature.

Bedside Hydration Stations: These are compact stations placed near the bedside, equipped with a water dispenser, cups, and a timer. In addition, seniors can have easy access to water, especially at night, encouraging them to stay hydrated.

Smart Home Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home can be programmed to remind seniors to drink water at regular intervals. Seniors can set up voice commands to receive hydration reminders throughout the day.

Medication Reminder Gadgets: Some medication reminder devices have expanded features and can be programmed to remind seniors not only to take their medication but also to drink water.

Customizable Hourly Chimes: Seniors can use gadgets like customizable hourly chimes or alarms to remind them to take a sip of water every hour.

Hydration Reminder Apps: There are various smartphone apps designed to remind users, including seniors, to drink water regularly. Furthermore, these apps allow users to set custom reminders and track their daily water intake.

It’s important to note that while these gadgets can be helpful, personal supervision and encouragement from caregivers or family members are crucial in ensuring that seniors maintain adequate hydration levels.

Below are some great examples of Gadgets to Prevent Elderly Dehydration available online right now:

Gadgets for tracking and reminding to drink water

Hidrate Spark 3 Smart Water Bottle

What does it do? The Hidrate Spark 3 Smart Water Bottle tracks water intake and glows to remind you to stay hydrated.

This BPA-free bottle features a sensor technology that tracks your water intake and syncs your progress to our free hydration tracker app via Bluetooth. Plus, the bold glow illuminates the entire bottle to remind you to drink more water, either at regular intervals or when you are behind on your daily water goal.

Get the Hidrate Spark 3 Smart Water Bottle on Amazon.

Ulla Smart Hydration Reminder

What does it do? The ULLA Smart Hydration Reminder to Drink More Water Bottles keeps track and remind you to drink more  If you forget to drink, smart detection sensors remind you to hydrate at least once per hour. 

This is a smart tracker that you can install on any mug, cup or bottle to track the elderly’s daily fluid intake. The thing works great whether they are at home or out of the house as it sends them reminders in the form of blinks when they have not had their drink for a set amount of time. Besides, if the elderly person is involved in a lot of activity in the house or outside the house, it can serve as a reminder for them to rehydrate at regular intervals.

Get the Ulla Smart Hydration Reminder on Amazon.

Gadgets for adding some flavor to the water

Savvy Infusion Flip Top Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

What does it do? The Savvy Infusion Flip Top Fruit Infuser Water Bottle is a great water bottle when you need to add some flavor to the drinking experience for the senior.

The bottle comes with an infuser where you can add in herbs, vegetable and sliced fruit for an all-natural flavored drink. This can spice up the water while the infuser keeps the pulp out of it so that the senior does not have to spit out herbs and pulps when they drink. This will save you money on buying flavored water while encouraging the elderly relative to drink more. 

This is a great water bottle when you need to add some flavor to the drinking experience for the senior. The bottle comes with an infuser where you can add in herbs, vegetable and sliced fruit for an all-natural flavored drink. This can spice up the water while the infuser keeps the pulp out of it so that the senior does not have to spit out herbs and pulps when they drink. This will save you money on buying flavored water while encouraging the elderly relative to drink more. 

Get the Savvy Infusion Flip Top Fruit Infuser Water Bottle on Amazon.

Aarke Carbonator-Sparkling & Seltzer Water

What does it do? The Carbonator 3 is a sparkling Water Maker, a sleek, user-friendly addition to any countertop. Choose from classic finishes and customize your sparkling water with natural flavors like lemon, lime, or our special Aarke Essences and Syrups, all low in sugar. In addition, the Carbonator 3 is not just elegant; it’s eco-friendly and enduring, designed for hassle-free use. Moreover, your purchase includes a BPA-free PET water bottle, a dry cloth, and a drip tray. Pair it with our Renewable CO2 60L gas cylinders for a perfect fizzy experience. Cheers to effervescence!

But here’s the real magic: customize your sparkling water with a burst of natural flavors. A splash of lemon, lime, or our special Aarke Essences and Syrups can transform your drink, offering a taste that’s refreshing and low in sugar. Want more options? Explore Six Barrel Soda syrups for an even wider range of flavors.

Get the Aarke Carbonator-Sparkling & Seltzer Water on Amazon.

Gadgets for active seniors who drink water on the go

Vapur Element BPA Free Durable Foldable Flexible Water Bottle

What does it do? The Vapur is a flexible water bottle that will be a lifesaver for the senior when they are out in the sun where there is the greatest risk of dehydration.

It is common for many people to forget their water when they are going to be out of the house or office. This is even worse for the elderly who tend to be more forgetful given their age.

If the elderly person is going to be out at the gym, riding a bike or taking a hike, pack the bottle full of water and have them take it along. Unlike other bottles, this is a bottle made of flexible material that makes it possible for it to be stowed into a pocket or bag when it is empty. Known as the anti-bottle, it will not add much bulk to their load and hence reduce rehydration. It also comes with a hands-free option so that they can rehydrate without having to stop their hike or bike ride. 

Get the Vapur Element BPA Free Durable Foldable Flexible Water Bottle on Amazon.

Hydrosleeve Hands-Free Armband Hydration Pack

What does it do? the Hydrosleeve Hydration Pack ensures 100% hands-free hydration. Made from BPA and PVC free TPU, the anti-slosh pouch eliminates the annoying sloshing sound while you run. Moreover, the pack features a Therma-cool Insulator, keeping your water refreshingly cool throughout your workout. With an angled bite valve adjustable for either arm, it offers easy access to hydration without interrupting your stride. Holding 7.5 oz of fluid, equivalent to a small handheld bottle, it’s perfect for most runs and workouts. Furthermore, each pack includes one Hydrosleeve, two anti-slosh bladders, and two angled valves made from silicone. Stay refreshed and keep moving!

Get the Hydrosleeve Hands-Free Armband Hydration Pack on Amazon.

Gadgets for seniors with limited mobility to drink water

Drink Water Tracking Hospital Cup for Daily Intake Measuring with Straw

Let’s talk about this special mug designed just for you.

Features: This mug is strong and durable, with a lid that you can easily turn around. There’s also a long, flexible straw, about 11 inches in length, that you can bend and cover when you’re not using it. Oh, and there are little notes on it reminding you why drinking water is important!

Design: The mug is not just any mug; it’s made for hospitals, so it’s super safe and clean. It can hold a big amount, about 32 ounces, and there are lines on it to show you how much you’re drinking. It’s designed with two layers to keep your drinks cool.

But that’s not all; there’s more to this amazing mug!

Durability: It’s really strong and can keep your drinks cold for a long time. And here’s the best part: you can put it in the dishwasher to clean it, although it’s a good idea to wash it by hand.

Convenience: Imagine having this big mug right by your bedside. It’s like having a mini fridge next to you, keeping your water chilled and ready to drink whenever you want.

Quality: This mug is made with the same care and quality you find in those cups you see at your favorite store where you refill your drinks. So, you know you’re getting the best!

In a nutshell, this mug is not just any mug; it’s your hydration buddy. It’s handy, keeps your water cold, and reminds you why sipping water is so important. It’s like having a helpful friend right by your side! Stay refreshed and enjoy your drinks!

Get the Drink Water Tracking Hospital Cup for Daily Intake Measuring with Straw on Amazon.

KIKIGOAL Convalescent Feeding Cup, Drinking Cup with Straw for Disabled Patient 

Let’s talk about this special container!

Materials: It’s made of strong and safe materials. The container is crafted from 304 stainless steel, and it also has parts made of food-grade PP and silicone. These materials are friendly to the environment and safe for your health. No harmful stuff here!

Design: It’s designed to keep your water warm for a longer time because of its special double-wall vacuum design. So, your hot drinks stay hot!

Functionality: The lid on the spout can be turned around to help you drink from different angles. This container can hold up to 350ml of your favorite drinks. And it can handle temperatures from -20℃ to 120℃. It’s not only practical but also looks good. You can use it as a regular cup or a cup with a spout.

Benefits: Now, here’s where it gets even better. This container is really helpful for seniors and people who have trouble controlling when they go to the bathroom. It makes it easy to drink water, eat porridge, soup, or anything else you like. It’s a great choice for anyone who might find it hard to hold things because of a disability, or for expecting moms, and older folks.

To sum it up, this container is more than just a cup; it’s a smart solution. With safe materials and a clever design, it keeps your drinks warm and makes sipping easy from any angle. It’s perfect for those who might need a little extra help. Cheers to a more comfortable and enjoyable drink!

Get the KIKIGOAL Convalescent Feeding Cup, Drinking Cup with Straw for Disabled Patient  on Amazon.

Gadgets to easily access clean water

LARQ Self-Cleaning Bottle PureVis Gives Pure

What does it do? With a simple press, enjoy pure, safe water thanks to its intelligent self-cleaning function.

Using advanced UV-C technology, this bottle eradicates up to 99.99% of microbes, ensuring your water is clean and healthy. The UV-C cap, a marvel of science, disrupts microorganisms’ structure, guaranteeing their demise. Safety comes first – our bottle includes a lock to prevent accidental UV-C exposure. Crafted from food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free materials, it’s both durable and safe. Choose between two sterilizing modes: normal for most water sources and blitz mode for extra purification. Stay refreshed and protected on the go!

Get the LARQ Self-Cleaning Bottle PureVis Gives Pure on Amazon.

Countertop Reverse Osmosis System, Hot and Cold Water Dispenser

What does it do? The All-in-One Reverse Osmosis System is the ultimate solution for your home’s hydration needs! This hot and cold water dispenser is NSF/ANSI 372 certified, ensuring lead-free materials and superior quality. Our system undergoes rigorous SGS testing, reducing TDS, Chrome, Chromium, Fluoride, Arsenic, Lead, PFAS, and more, guaranteeing pure and healthy water. With six temperature options ranging from ice-cold to boiling, it’s perfect for various beverages. The user-friendly LED display shows water quality, volume, temperature, and filter life, ensuring easy operation. Installation is a breeze – no drilling or plumbing required. Enjoy clean, convenient, and eco-friendly hydration in your kitchen, office, or living room!

Get the Countertop Reverse Osmosis System, Hot and Cold Water Dispenser on Amazon.

8 Ways to Gadgets to Prevent Elderly Dehydration and Get the Elderly to Drink More Water

Due to physiological changes, the elderly tend to drink much less water than they should. However, there are several techniques that can be employed to ensure that they take enough water to prevent chronic dehydration.

Getting the elderly to drink can help prevent major health problems. This means issues such as lower blood pressure, weak and rapid pulse, passing out, blood clot complications, and kidney stones. The following are some hydration tips seniors:

1. Have them Drink from as many sources as possible. You do not have to offer the elderly just water to get them hydrated. Spice it up by offering vegetables, fruits, sweetened beverages, fruit juice, coffee, and tea. If the senior does not like taking fluids, increase the water content in their food to get them properly hydrated.

2. Make water easily accessible. Seniors will sometimes not drink enough water because it is not easily accessible because of their mobility issues. As such, you need to have water on easy access by having a pitcher of water where they spend much of their time.

3. Set up leave notes and reminders. If your elderly family member is getting forgetful, you should have electronic notices around the house to remind them to drink. There are gadgets that include electric memos and clocks that can play when the elderly person has gone for a period without a drink. These can be very effective in solving the problem of dehydration.

4. Serve their drinks at different temperatures. Some elderly people prefer cold while others love hot drinks. You need to experiment with your iced teas, warm juices, and hot coffees until you find the perfect temperature for the senior.

5. Prepare savory foods. Elders may enjoy drinking hot soup broth, particularly if they have a predilection for savory foods. You can serve the broth in powder, or from a box or can as long as they get their dose of hydration.

6. Make popsicles. One of the best ways to get the elderly to up their fluid intake is by making homemade popsicles. These are a mix of water and fruit juice that make for an excellent treat in the summer. Most elderly people enjoy homemade popsicles and will get their much-needed water from this treat.

7. Give them sports drinks, milkshakes, and smoothies. Some elderly will resist common fluids but will drink sports drinks, milkshakes, and smoothies. These have a better texture and flavor and may just get the stubborn elder to drink more.

8. Identify continence issues. Try to find out if the elderly are having continence issues that may make them reluctant to rehydrate. One of the best ways of dealing with this is having a timed toileting approach. This way you can help them get to the bathroom so that they are not so reluctant to drink.

Dehydration: Learn the Basics

What is dehydration?

Dehydration is a common reason why elderly people end up in the hospital. This happens because the way our bodies work changes as we get older.

Normally, our bodies are made up of about 75% water. But as people age, this decreases to around 60%. This means older adults are more likely to become dehydrated.

Water is vital for the body. It helps pump blood to muscles, control body temperature, and even lubricate joints. Therefore, not drinking enough water can be harmful, especially for seniors.

Dehydration can be tricky because its signs are not always obvious. Early on, it might cause muscle cramps, dizziness, tiredness, and a dry mouth. These signs can be mistaken for other health problems or just a part of getting older.

Long-term dehydration is very risky for seniors. That’s why spotting it early is crucial. Therefore, it’s not only about finding it but also preventing it from happening again.

Recognizing the signs of dehydration early is essential. Seniors need to drink enough water to stay healthy and keep their bodies working well. By understanding the importance of hydration and taking action, we can help our elderly loved ones live healthier lives. Stay hydrated, stay healthy!

Why the Elderly Are More Prone to Dehydration?

Dehydration affects between a fifth and a third of the elderly, with up to 48% of the elderly admitted in the hospital having dehydration. So what are some reasons for this phenomenon among the elderly?

1. Physiological Changes. The elderly experience a physiological change as they age, which reduces their body mass. The body’s composition goes from three-quarters water down to about 60% which throws their hydration out of balance as compared to younger adults.

2. Reduced Thirst Sensation. As people age, they tend to have a reduced thirst sensation. This means that the elderly are less likely to know when they need to drink. By the time they are thirsty, they are often in the early stages of dehydration.

3. Reduced Renal Function. The renal function typically declines with age from inadequate functioning of the anti diuretic hormone. This results in the kidneys losing their ability to concentrate urine. With the reduced effectiveness of the kidneys, the elderly tend to urinate more such that they lose more body fluids. 

Medical Causes of Dehydration

1. Constipation and High Blood Pressure. Many of the elderly are afflicted with conditions that require them to take specific medications such as laxatives and diuretics that often result in excessive fluid loss.

2. Vomiting and Diarrhea. The elderly are more prone to diarrhea and vomiting due to weakened digestive and immune systems. This can result in excessive fluid loss that leads to dehydration.

3. Stroke and Alzheimer’s. These have been associated with a reduced sensation of thirst that results in dehydration from the reduced need to consume fluids.

4. Dementia and Cognitive Problems. The elderly are more prone to forgetfulness due to dementia conditions such as Alzheimer’s. This means they can forget to take their recommended intake of fluids. 

How to Identify Dehydration?

As previously mentioned, it is not so easy to diagnose dehydration given that it has a lot of symptoms common to other age-related conditions. However, the most effective way of diagnosing the condition is through laboratory testing. Some of the most common symptoms of the condition include:

• Low urine sodium concentration
• Elevated plasma serum osmolality
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine

Dehydration can also be tested by measuring the specific gravity of the elderly’s urine using a dipstick urine test. Another way to check for dehydration is to look out for symptoms and physical signs that include: Dry skin in the armpit, less frequent urination, sunken eyes, high heart rate, delirium, low systolic blood pressure, weakness, and dizziness. 

Results of Dehydration

The results of dehydration will depend on the severity of the dehydration and how long the senior has been dehydrated. Over the short term, the physical symptoms listed above will be evident. Older persons will typically be more prone to dizziness and passing out. Persons who have Alzheimer’s and other kinds of dementia may also experience heightened symptoms of those conditions. For instance, they may realize a deterioration in thinking and more confusion.

Dehydration can also result in the kidneys being less effective and hence the elderly person may experience more urination. Chronic mild dehydration may result in worsening constipation and increase the risk of kidney stones.

Low water intake has also been linked to urinary tract infections and urinary system diseases. These could be embarrassing, painful, and uncomfortable and may make the elderly avoid water even more as they do not want to visit the toilet as often. 

Long-Term Effects of Dehydration

If dehydration is not arrested in time and is left to become chronic, it can result in dangerous health outcomes. Such outcomes can result in increased frequency of hospitalization and even death. Even mild dehydration can adversely impact the elderly’s mental performance including reaction time, concentration, attention, and memory.

Common complications that come with dehydration over the long term are increased risk of falling, dizziness, weakness, and low blood pressure. A dehydrated person is also more prone to developing skin conditions and pressure sores.

One of the most critical effects of not having enough water in the body is an increased risk of damaging the kidneys and developing urinary tract infections. The elderly who are suffering from dehydration are at higher risk of developing urinary tract infections and kidney stones over the long term. 

How Drinking More Water Can Improve Your Health and Change Your Life

So, why is water so important for seniors?

Body Function: First of all, water is like a superhero for seniors’ bodies. It helps their brains work better, so they can think and remember things easily.

Digestive Health: Plus, water keeps their stomachs happy and prevents tummy troubles, like constipation, which can be really uncomfortable.

Joint and Movement: It’s like oil for their joints, making it easier to move around without feeling stiff. This means fewer chances of falling and getting hurt.

But that’s not all; there’s more to it!

Chronic Conditions: For seniors dealing with health issues, water is like a helper. It makes sure their medicines work well and keeps their symptoms in check.

Heart Health: Keeping their hearts in good shape is essential, and water plays a big role. It also helps keep their blood pressure steady.

Immune Boost: Water boosts their body’s soldiers, making it tough for sickness to attack.

In short, what’s the key takeaway here?

Conclusion: Drinking enough water is like giving seniors a magic potion. It helps them think clearly, move comfortably, and keeps them strong and healthy. So, remember, a glass of water a day keeps the doctor away! Stay hydrated and stay happy!

The Bottom Line

Dehydration in the elderly poses severe health risks, often leading to complications and even fatal outcomes. Detecting dehydration is challenging due to its symptoms overlapping with common illnesses and the aging process.

Physiological changes and medical conditions often make seniors either unaware of their dehydration or hesitant to consume enough fluids, putting their health at risk.

In recent years, innovative solutions have emerged to address senior dehydration. Smart water bottles equipped with tracking apps now notify caregivers, ensuring consistent hydration throughout the day. Specially designed water containers enhance the drinking experience, making it more enjoyable for seniors. Some bottles even remind seniors to take sips if they haven’t drunk water for a while. In addition, portable options cater to seniors’ mobility, allowing them to stay hydrated wherever they go. Moreover, hydration monitors provide precise indications of seniors’ hydration needs, enabling caregivers to respond promptly.

Embracing these advanced technologies ensures that seniors receive adequate hydration. Caregivers can now monitor and enhance the hydration experience, promoting their well-being. Prevention through consistent hydration can alleviate future complications and reduce healthcare costs. Stay proactive in safeguarding their health!

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