How to ensure the person drinks enough fluids?

My wife hardly ever asks for water and refuses when I offer it. I'm afraid she'll get dehydrated, especially now in the summer. How can I get her to drink enough without us constantly fighting?

It's a daily, silent struggle, and your care in anticipating the heat shows how attentive you are. Dehydration is subtle but dangerous, so this effort is well worth it.

Why it happens

With dementia, the person may stop feeling thirsty, forget to drink, not recognise the glass, or have difficulty swallowing. Dehydration worsens confusion, promotes urinary infections, constipation, and falls, creating a difficult cycle.

Practical strategies

• Offer small amounts frequently, instead of large glasses all at once.
• Vary: water, tea, natural juices, milk, soup, jelly, fruit with high water content (watermelon, melon).
• Leave the drink always in sight and within reach.
• Use contrasting coloured cups or adapted cups that are easier to recognise and hold.
• Drink with them, turning it into a moment of companionship.
• In hot weather, increase fluid offers and avoid the hottest times of the day.

What NOT to do

• Do not force or argue; this increases refusal.
• Do not offer thin liquids if there is frequent choking, without guidance.
• Do not ignore signs such as dry mouth, dark urine, drowsiness, or new confusion.

When to seek professional help

If there are signs of dehydration or difficulty swallowing, speak to the GP or call NHS 111. In cases of severe prostration, go to A&E.

"I stopped insisting on the big glass and started offering sips all day. Without arguments, she drinks much more." — Anonymous carer