As we get older, our bodies tend to hold less and less water. This leaves seniors at a greater risk for dehydration. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining a good quality of life. Water helps promote brain function, intestinal comfort, and urinary continence. It is especially important for older individuals to pay attention to their fluid consumption as dehydration can lead to delirium, infections, or worse. Staying hydrated for seniors is simple and may help prevent a trip to the hospital.
How to Stay Hydrated
As people age, their sense of thirst decreases. This means that by the time a senior feels thirsty they are probably already dehydrated. For this reason it is always important to drink before you are thirsty. The best way to stay hydrated is by drinking water. However other drinks to keep you hydrated include:
• Milk
• Juice
• Decaf Tea
• Coconut water
Limiting the consumption of coffee, tea and soda is important to staying hydrated. Caffeinated beverages prompt the body to flush out fluids, which makes it more difficult for your body to stay hydrated. In addition to drinking plenty of water, eating the right foods can help seniors to stay hydrated. Many fruits and vegetables are made up of a significant amount of water. Some great foods to snack on include:
• Watermelon
• Spinach
• Cantaloupe
• Grapefruit
• Cucumber
• Zucchini
Eddy Senior Living Takes Steps to Keep Seniors Hydrated
Most adults need about 64 ounces of fluids every day, but that amount increases with heat and humidity. Keep in mind various medications and health conditions may also play a factor in how much fluid needs to be consumed daily. Having easy access to water is an important step to ensuring seniors keep hydrated. This is why every Eddy Senior Living Community has hydration stations throughout the campus. In addition, staff is trained to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration. Learn more about the other benefits and amenities our Senior Living Communities offer.