Approximately 60% of the body is made up of water. Water is an important part of the body that enables the proper functioning of vital organs. Summertime is usually the best time to explore and have fun with different outdoor activities. However, it's very easy to get dehydrated during this time due to the hot and humid temperature, reducing the water level in our bodies. Dehydration affects everyone during summer, but older persons and people with Alzheimer's are at a higher risk. But why is it important to stay hydrated during summer? Read on to find out.
Benefits of Staying Hydrated During Summer
During summer, our bodies sweat a lot because of the hot temperature. As our bodies sweat, we also lose water, which may lead to dehydration. Some of the benefits of staying hydrated during this period are:
1. Proper Muscle Functioning
Water controls body temperature and helps in the delivery of oxygen to the muscle cell as well as the removal of metabolic waste. Dehydration slows down these activities and contributes to muscle fatigue.
2. Respiratory Health
Dehydration makes daily activities like walking and climbing stairs significantly more challenging. This is because when water levels go down, the blood flow also reduces, making the heart work extra to ensure proper blood circulation and oxygen throughout the body. This is the reason why people normally feel fatigued during hot weather conditions.
3. Water Helps in Regulating Body Temperature
Our bodies naturally release heat through a process known as metabolism. We normally control our body temperature by sweating, breathing, and drinking cool water. When it gets extremely hot, our body's self-cooling system starts to fail, making it difficult to regulate body temperature.
4. Enhances Digestion
Water is important in enabling nutrients to travel through the digestive tract. Lack of enough water in the body leads to constipation, which might lead to additional gastrointestinal problems in the future. It is also important in the excretion of body wastes.
5. Prevent Dry Mouth
During summer, our bodies require more water, making us thirsty, and the sun also contributes to dry and cracked lips. However, when properly hydrated, our mouth and lips become naturally moist, preventing dryness.
6. Cognitive Sharpness
Enough water brings on clear thinking and mental focus since the brain receives more blood and oxygen. On the other hand, losing body fluids reduces focus and impairs short-term memory.
7. Proper Hydration Results in Softer Skin
High temperatures cause dehydration, which makes the skin lose its elasticity. As a result, you'll be more susceptible to sunburns and skin dryness — damaging your skin.
Special Care for the Older Population
Although the average adult's body weight consists of roughly 60% water, this percentage drops to 50% in older people. They tend to experience reduced sweating, and as a result, high temperatures combined with some medications may pose risks for chronic health concerns. Persons 65 years and older are particularly vulnerable to serious heat stroke from dehydration brought on by high temperatures. Ensure that your loved ones have access to water and air conditioning during summer.
At Senior Helpers Santa Rosa Wine Country, our goal is to provide secure and convenient In-home care service to the older population in Santa Rosa, Ukiah, Sebastopol, and Rohnert Park, CA. We also offer specialized care to loved ones with Alzheimer's and other chronic diseases. Contact us today to learn more about how you can keep your loved ones safe and hydrated during summer.