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Offer liquids throughout the day; don’t wait for the person to ask.
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Don’t just hand over a glass; stand by and make sure the drink is actually sipped.
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Vary the types of beverages offered: water, juice, milk, hot chocolate, cider. Even coffee, tea, and soda are okay in moderation (about a cup a day) if the person prefers them.
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Do, however, curb caffeinated beverages if fear of getting to the bathroom on time is an issue, as caffeinated drinks can cause frequent urination.
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Issue mild reminders during the meal: “Have a sip of water…try the iced tea”.
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Leave athletic water bottles around the house or carry them around during the day.
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Serve fruit, which contains a lot of water, especially watermelon, melon, and citrus.
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Be sure you know the symptoms of dehydration: increased confusion or lethargy, complaints of headache, dry skin or mouth, feeling warm to the touch.
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Know that diarrhea and vomiting increase the risk of dehydration, so monitor the person especially closely when he’s ill, and notify the doctor if you suspect dehydration.