Water for Elderly, not Elephants

The human brain is 77 - 78% water. Dehydration in the elderly is serious, and possibly fatal. Let's make it easy for them to get the needed water. By the way - in my opinion water is the best, if not only, source of hydration. You may add a small amount of sea salt to the water to increase the hydrating effect. Here is the recipe:

How much salt should you take? F. Batmanghelidj M.D. suggests:

1/8 tsp of salt (unrefined sea salt is best) for every 16 oz (half a liter) of water we drink. Use ½ tsp of salt for every half a gallon of water and a full tsp of salt for one gallon of water. This is not to say that mixing the salt into the water is the best way to consume it. In the case of an elderly person, who will not know to or remember to take the salt directly on the tongue, it can be mixed. I would make a 16 ounce supply, and split it into two servings. If you are caregiving for the person, place 1/8 tsp of salt directly onto the tip of the tongue, and make sure the patient tastes it. Then have them drink the water, "washing" the salt down. In cases where there is no Dementia or other mental impairment, this simple routine can be taught. Few elderly will consume a gallon of water a day, however a half gallon is reasonable.
This "recipe" is attributed to curing an impressive number of ailments.
Many elderly are reluctant to drink. Is there a fear of looking stupid by not having the strength to lift the glass? Are they suffering from hands shaking? Is the huge glass intimidating? Do they resist having to go to the bathroom too often? The bathroom issue is tough to overcome, but you should make the dangers of dehydration very, very clear.

For ease of handling, and visual apeal, I use brightly colored, plastic, "Old Fashioned" style cups. These are available at large variety stores, appropriate for the season. You may also find great drinking cups on caregiving supply sites. Some have splash guards (for shaking).

Encourage your elderly charge that you would rather help them to the bathroom, than take them to the emergency room!

Tips:
Cucumber flavors water enough to make it more appealing. Lemon is good, as well. Ice is sometimes a welcome addition.