Q: How can we get my older mother to drink more water? She is susceptible to urinary tract infections and seems to be often dehydrated no matter what we do. We were also wondering if coffee and tea are okay, or should they be avoided to reduce dehydration? And what are symptoms of dehydration in older women that we can look out for?
A: Dehydration is indeed an important problem for older adults. It can be common even when it’s not hot outside.
Helping an older person increase her fluid intake, as you’re trying to do, is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of dehydration.
Now how to actually do this? Studies — and practical experience — suggest that the best approaches include:
