Refusing water? 5 Hydration Hacks for Dementia Caregivers

When Someone With Dementia Refuses Water

Staying hydrated is important, but getting someone living with dementia to drink enough fluids can sometimes be challenging.

They may forget to drink, not recognize that they are thirsty, have difficulty expressing what they need, or simply refuse the drink being offered.

Not getting enough fluids can lead to dehydration, which may cause problems such as a dry mouth, constipation, tiredness, dizziness, UTIs, and increased confusion.

The good news is that hydration doesn't always have to mean drinking a glass of plain water. 

There are simple, creative ways to offer more fluids throughout the day.

Here are 5 simple hydration hacks for dementia caregivers that you can try.

1. Water-Rich Fruits

Some people living with dementia may be more willing to eat a juicy fruit than drink a glass of water. Water-rich foods can be an easy way to add fluids throughout the day.

Try offering foods such as watermelon, oranges, berries, grapes, or cucumber, depending on what the person enjoys and can safely eat.

You don't have to make it complicated. A few pieces of a favorite fruit alongside a meal or as a snack can be another opportunity for hydration.

2. Treat-Style Jellies

Sometimes water doesn't seem appealing, but something that feels more like a treat can catch someone's attention.

Jelly or gelatin desserts can provide some fluid while also giving the person something enjoyable to look forward to.

Try serving a small portion as a snack or dessert. The goal isn't to replace drinks completely, but to find different ways to offer fluids.

3. Try a High-Contrast Cup

Sometimes the problem isn't simply refusing a drink. The person may not notice the cup easily, particularly if the cup blends into the table or surroundings.

A solid-colored cup that contrasts with the table or background may make the drink easier to see.

You can experiment with different colors and see what works best. Keeping the cup in a familiar, easy-to-see location can also help.

4. Flavor the Water

Plain water isn't appealing to everyone.

Try adding a little flavor, such as lemon, lime, berries, cucumber, or another flavor the person enjoys.

You can also offer other appropriate fluids they enjoy rather than focusing only on plain water. Sometimes changing the taste, temperature, or presentation is enough to make a drink more appealing.

5. Make It Social — “Cheers! Let's Drink!”

Instead of repeatedly saying, “You need to drink your water,” try making it something you do together.

Sit down with the person, have your own drink, raise your cup and say:

“Cheers! Let's have a drink together.”

Take a sip at the same time. Sometimes a simple social cue or demonstration can be more inviting than being told what to do.

Remember, hydration doesn't have to happen all at once. 

Offering small amounts of fluids and hydrating foods throughout the day may feel much more manageable than expecting someone to finish a large glass.

If someone is consistently drinking very little, seems unusually sleepy or confused, is dizzy, or you are concerned about dehydration, contact their healthcare professional for advice.

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