It’s important for seniors to stay hydrated, but the very nature of dehydration can make it difficult. Seniors are more prone to dehydration because they may not be able to feel thirst or understand when they’re thirsty. Here are some tips on staying hydrated:
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Drink lots of water, juice, milk, and other beverages. If you like to eat fruit or vegetables, make sure they are fresh and ripe because they contain more water than canned or frozen foods. Try to eat your fruits and vegetables with low-sodium sauces or dressings instead of those that contain a lot of salt.
It is also important for seniors to stay hydrated by making sure they take an electrolyte supplement if needed. In some cases, doctors may recommend a supplement for those who have increased risk for dehydration as a result of certain problems such as diabetes or Parkinson’s disease. Muscle cramps and fainting may be signs that you need additional electrolytes in your daily diet. If you have concerns about your water intake or electrolyte supplements, talk to a healthcare professional for advice.
Make sure you always carry water with you (a refillable bottle is best). It’s easy to forget to drink water if you’re not planning for it so having it with you at all times is the best way to make sure you stay hydrated. You can also use an app like Lifesum or Waterlogged to track how much water you drink each day and create reminders.
Finally, bolster your diet with dehydration fighting foods. Bananas and dark leafy vegetables, for example, are foods that are high in electrolytes. They can help prevent dehydration, especially in cases where a person may not be able to feel thirst or understand when they need water.
The human body is composed of over 60% water. This means it’s important to stay hydrated! As we age, our bodies may not be able to feel thirst or understand when they need water as easily as they once did. The tips provided in this article should help seniors stay hydrated. Talk to a healthcare professional about any concerns related to your water intake.
