Helping a Loved One Stay Hydrated During a Heatwave: A Guide for Caregivers

Summer heat is here ☀️ and with it comes one of the quietest risks for people living with cognitive changes: dehydration. For most of us, thirst is a reliable signal. But for older adults, and especially for those living with cognitive changes, that signal does not always come through clearly. Add heat to the mix, and staying hydrated takes a little more intention.

The good news: small, consistent habits go a long way.

Why Does Hydration Matter So Much?

Water is essential for our bodies to function properly — and a lack of it affects far more than just thirst. Staying well-hydrated supports:

• Energy levels and alertness

• Joint lubrication and mobility

• Healthy skin and digestion

• Elimination of toxins

• Blood sugar regulation and stable body temperature

During a heatwave, the body loses water faster than usual. For older adults, health experts recommend a minimum of 1.5 litres (about 6 cups) of water per day, and more during periods of extreme heat.

Why Are Older Adults at Greater Risk of Dehydration?

As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature. The kidneys retain less water, we sweat less readily, and the sensation of thirst tends to diminish. This means dehydration can set in quietly, before anyone, including the person experiencing it, notices something is wrong.

For people living with cognitive changes, these risks are compounded. Memory difficulties can mean forgetting to drink. The part of the brain that sends thirst signals does not always function reliably. And depending on where someone is in their journey, they may no longer be able to recognize or communicate that they feel off.

*Worth knowing: if your loved one seems more confused than usual during hot weather, dehydration is worth considering before assuming it is a change in their cognitive symptoms. Catching it early makes a real difference.

What Are the Signs of Dehydration to Watch For?

These signs can be subtle in older adults, and even more so for someone living with cognitive changes. When in doubt, offer fluids and check in.

• Dry mouth or lips

• Fatigue or unusual drowsiness

• Darker urine, or urinating less frequently than usual

• Increased confusion or disorientation

• Dizziness or complaints of a headache

How Can You Help Your Loved One Stay Hydrated?

Supporting good hydration does not have to be complicated. These practical steps can be built into a daily routine.

• Keep it visible. When water is out of sight, it is easy to forget. A glass or bottle left within reach acts as a gentle, ongoing reminder — no words needed.

• Offer small amounts, often. Rather than encouraging a full glass at once, offer small sips throughout the day. This is easier to manage and less overwhelming. The Eatwell Anti-Tipping Sipping Cup is designed for exactly this — its spill-resistant design supports more independent, confident sipping without drawing attention to difficulty and its red colour isn't just aesthetic. Research shows that high-contrast tableware can significantly increase food and liquid intake in people living with cognitive changes, as the colour contrast helps the cup stand out and stay visible.

• Make it more than water. If plain water is not appealing, that is okay. Flavored water, diluted juice, herbal tea, soups, and fresh fruit all contribute to hydration. For a creative option that many people living with cognitive impairment genuinely enjoy, Jelly Drops are hydrating, bite-sized snacks: easy to offer casually without it feeling like another glass of water.

• Build it into routine. Consistent reminders help, especially when the thirst signal is not reliable. The Idem clock can be programmed remotely to display gentle hydration prompts at set times throughout the day. For caregivers managing a busy schedule, this is one less thing to actively track while still keeping a loved one on course.

• Check medications. Some medications commonly prescribed to older adults — including certain blood pressure drugs and diuretics — can increase the risk of dehydration. If you are unsure whether your loved one's medications could be a factor, a conversation with their healthcare provider is worth having.

• Empower choice. Involve your loved one in selecting their own cup or deciding what to drink. This small act of choice can foster a meaningful sense of autonomy and engagement.

Do Not Forget: Heat Risk Starts Indoors

Hydration and body temperature go hand in hand. Staying cool helps reduce how much fluid the body loses in the first place. On hot days: keep curtains drawn during peak heat hours (roughly 11am to 4pm), use fans to circulate air, offer cool face cloths, dress in light and loose clothing, and limit time outdoors in direct sun. A warm room can contribute to dehydration just as quickly as being outside, and most heat-related health events happen indoors.

Small Habits, Real Difference

A few consistent habits, adjusted for the heat, can help your loved one stay comfortable and well through the warmer months. You do not need to overhaul a routine, just make hydration a little easier to remember and a little easier to do.

Creating proactive routines to prevent dehydration during hot weather — rather than treating the problem once it has set in — is key. Finding a way to make hydration easier and more enjoyable is infinitely more effective than trying to persuade someone to drink more once they are already dehydrated.

Please keep in mind that these suggestions are general and may not be appropriate for everyone. Some medical conditions require limiting fluid intake. If this applies to your loved one, speak with their healthcare provider before making changes.

And if you ever notice signs of severe dehydration, significant confusion, very dark urine, no urination for an extended period, rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness — seek medical attention right away.