Proper Hydration is Essential to Health, Especially in A Nursing Home
January 30th, 2012 tmccoy
http://lvs-yourlawyer.s3.amazonaws.com/08-yourlawyer-ir-importance-of-hydration-of-a-loved-one-in-a-nursing-home.mp4
As people age, they become more vulnerable to dehydration – not getting the water and other liquids that the body needs to remain healthy. The elderly are less likely to feel thirsty, even when they need fluids. Medical conditions and medications can affect thirst. Look for dry mouth, cracked lips and sunken eyes.
Because of decreased mobility, the elderly often need to rely on a caregiver to bring them something to drink. Because of memory problems, the elderly often need a caregiver to remind and encourage them to drink.
Dehydration can lead to many complications among those in nursing homes – including confusion, weakness (causing falls), urinary tract infections, pneumonia and bedsores. When your loved one enters a nursing home – temporarily or for a longer time – make sure that the nursing home care plan covers proper hydration.
Dehydration can have a dramatic effect on the health and well-being of your loved one in a nursing home. Speak with someone in authority about your concern. If the situation is not addressed quickly, find an advocate who can help you make and document your case.
To learn more about dehydration and your relative or close friend in a nursing home, I encourage you to watch the video above and to explore our educational website at http://yourlawyer.com. If you have legal questions, please pick up the phone and give me a call. I can answer your legal questions since this is what I do every day. You can reach me at 1-800-800-9797. I welcome your call.
