Make Staying Hydrated Your New Year's Resolution: Tips and Tricks for Seniors
As the new year approaches, many people take the time to make resolutions with the goal of improving their health and well-being. Staying better hydrated is a resolution that can prove much easier to keep than resolutions about exercise or healthy eating! Not only does drinking plenty of water help your body function optimally, but it also has numerous benefits for seniors specifically. For seniors whose goal is to stay hydrated this year, there are several tips that can help make the process easier.
The Benefits of Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is critical to keeping your body functioning as efficiently as possible. By staying hydrated, you can experience these benefits.
Improved Digestion
Staying hydrated helps to keep the digestive system functioning properly. Drinking enough water helps move waste through the body and prevent constipation. This is especially important for seniors who may be more prone to digestion issues due to age-related changes in their digestive systems.
Better Mood
Dehydration can lead to mood swings and feelings of irritability. Keeping the body hydrated can help seniors stay in a good mood and reduce stress levels.
Increased Energy
Dehydration means that the body has to work harder to keep up with the demands of everyday life. Proper hydration, on the other hand, helps provide energy and reduce fatigue.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
Many people do not stop to remember how much water they really need to drink throughout the day. However, there are several things seniors and their caregivers can do to stay on top of hydration.
Use a Water Bottle to Track Intake
Using a water bottle can help seniors track how much water they're drinking throughout the day. It also makes it easy to bring water on the go.
Eat Food High in Water Content
In addition to drinking plenty of water, seniors can also get water from the food they eat. Eating food that is high in water content, like watermelon, pineapple, peaches, and bell peppers, can help increase your overall hydration levels.
Drink Water Before, During, and After Meals
Drinking water before, during, and after meals can help keep the body hydrated. Drinking water during your meal can also help make mealtime easier, since the extra lubrication makes it easier for seniors to swallow.
Limit Caffeine and Sugary Drinks
Caffeinated and sugary drinks can actually dehydrate the body, so it's best to limit the intake of these beverages. Seniors should stick with water as much as possible for optimal hydration.
Contact Senior Helpers for More Help Meeting Your New Year's Resolutions
If you need help staying hydrated or if you have any other health concerns, the team at Senior Helpers of Dover, DE, is here to help. We offer a variety of services to seniors, including transportation and home care throughout the Dover, Middletown, Seaford, Georgetown, and Lewes areas. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you stay healthy and happy this year!