In this series of posts on malnutrition and dehydration in relation to Illinois nursing home neglect, our Chicago nursing home abuse attorney has discussed the severity of both medical conditions and how to recognize the signs.

All elderly people are at a greater risk for dehydration, which only increases as they age. All residents being accepted into nursing homes should be evaluated for their individual risk factor, according to Illinios nursing home negligence lawyers. There are many medical issues which can increase their risk and should be identified and routinely reevaluated.

Some of these conditions include:

• Alzheimer’s or other dementia
• Psychiatric disorders including depression
• Stroke
• Frequent infections
• Diabetes
• Malnutrition
• Incontinence
• Previous history of dehydration
• 4 or more chronic conditions
• Use of diuretics, antidepressants, psychotropic drugs, anti-anxiety medications, laxatives, or steroids
• Chronic cognitive impairment
• Inadequate nutrition
• Acute situations including vomiting, diarrhea and/or fevers

Source: Nursinghomealert.com

If your loved one exhibits one or more of these risk factors for dehydration, you should ensure he is properly monitored to prevent decline in his physical health. Appropriate preventative measures must be taken to decrease his risk for dehydration. Be sure to stay in touch with the director of nursing for his facility as well as his physician. In cases where Illinois nursing home neglect seems to be a factor, you may consider consulting an Illinois nursing home negligence attorney.

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