Dehydration in care homes studied

Some elderly people in care do not drink enough water

A possible link between dehydration suffered by people in residential homes and the number of falls they experience is to be studied.

The study by the Royal Institute of Public Health (RIHP) and Anglian Water follows evidence from residential homes that water coolers help reduce falls.

The RIPH found many elderly residents in care did not drink enough water.

The water drinking patterns of people at five care homes in Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk are to be studied.

The pilot project is overseen by a steering group of health and care professionals.

Link with falls

George Sampson, from the Methodist Homes for the Aged taking part in the study, said: "When the body is hydrated, it can improve alertness and prevent spells of dizziness.

"We believe good hydration could reduce the number of falls and accidents amongst older people."

Anglian Water is installing mains-fed water coolers and testing educational materials in the five residential homes as part of the study which links in with their own research.

The pilot study will begin in April and run for six months.

At its conclusion, the initiative will use anecdotal evidence and interviews to measure understanding of the benefits of hydration among staff, residents and families.

It will also investigate the reduction in falls, improvement in continence and well-being, as well as reductions in urinary infections and confusion levels.