Tips for Helping your Elderly Loved Ones Stay Hydrated During the Summer

Summer caregiving comes with its own set of challenges especially when temperatures rise and you're juggling outdoor errands, appointments, or simply helping a loved one stay cool and comfortable.

Critical and often overlooked is Hydration, Hydration, Hydration!

Both caregivers and their elderly loved ones are at higher risk of dehydration during the summer months. As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes. Medications or chronic conditions can further complicate fluid balance.

Mama’s Journey | Mama loves the summer! Maybe it’s because of her passion for gardening. It was her favorite summer pastime for as long as I can remember. I have vivid memories of her spending hours nurturing her plants, her hands in the soil, being completely in her element. Her flower and vegetable garden was her pride and joy. We admired its beauty and for the delicious vegetables she harvested season after season. When she came to live with me, one of the things I cherished most was how she brought her passion for gardening with her. She started our very first vegetable garden, and it quickly became a shared joy (and passion). Mama poured her heart into planting, nurturing, and watering everything with care. Thanks to Mama, our home overflowed herbs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, all summer long (and often into the fall).

Mama poured her heart into planting, nurturing, and watering everything with care.

Our home overflowed herbs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, all summer long (and often into the fall).

One summer afternoon, after we had finished gardening, Mama sat down on the patio to rest and suddenly passed out. It was really frightening. Later, we later learned that she had become dehydrated. The surprising part was that she was drinking water throughout the day, but it wasn’t nearly enough to stay properly hydrated, especially with heat and activity. That frightening moment was a turning point for me. From then on, I made it a priority to monitor her water intake, not just sipping water now and then, but consistently drinking enough fluids to keep her body balanced.

Here are some simple but effective tips to help you and your loved one stay hydrated and safe all summer long:

1. Always Keep Water Accessible

Have water bottles or cups placed in easy to reach places throughout your home, especially in the living room, bedroom and kitchen.

Use straws or cups with handles if your loved one has mobility challenges.

2. Monitor Water Intake

Using a large water bottle with measurement markers makes it easier to track exactly how much water your loved one is drinking throughout the day. It helps both you and your loved one stay on top of hydration in a way that was visual and manageable.

3. Offer Fluids Regularly, Not Just at Meals

Encourage small sips of water, herbal teas, or electrolyte rich drinks (i.e., coconut water, watermelon juice, milk) throughout the day. Don’t wait for signs of thirst. By the time someone feels thirsty, they may already be mildly dehydrated.

4. Incorporate Hydrating Foods

Water-rich fruits like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, bananas, and berries are delicious ways to provide extra fluids, especially if your loved one resists drinking plain water. Other

5. Set a Gentle Hydration Schedule

Use phone alarms or reminders to check in every 1–2 hours for a quick hydration break, for both of you. Staying consistent makes it a healthy routine, not a chore.

6. Watch for Signs of Dehydration

Dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, dark urine, or fatigue can all be signs of dehydration, especially in seniors. If you notice these symptoms, act quickly and consult a healthcare provider if needed.

7. Stay Cool

Limit outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day. Use fans, cooling towels, or light clothing to reduce overheating, which can lead to fluid loss.

Here’s a Tip for You, Caregivers:

I know how easy it is to focus all your attention on the one you're caring for. But, don't forget yourself. You need hydration, rest, and nourishment, too. Staying hydrated helps you stay present, alert, and ready to give your best care.

Here's to a safe, cool, and well-hydrated summer for both of you.