As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to dehydration and other challenges. Remaining hydrated can also become more difficult for many seniors. However, there are several strategies you can use to keep yourself overall better hydrated.
The Importance of Proper Hydration
Hydration is essential to our health and well-being at any age. Proper hydration can improve energy levels, cognitive function, and digestion. For seniors, adequate hydration helps keep the body functioning correctly and prevents a wide range of common ailments such as constipation, urinary tract infections (UTIs), dizziness, or fainting spells.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
The recommended daily water intake for an average adult is 8 glasses or 64 ounces per day. However, various factors, including exercise, stress levels, medications being taken, and the climate, can influence that amount. If you find yourself becoming thirsty quickly or consistently experiencing dry mouth throughout the day, it could be a sign that you need to increase your daily water intake slightly. Keep in mind that 64 ounces are a general recommendation that does not fit all seniors' needs. You can also arrive at a reasonable amount of water for you to consume by dividing your weight by three, then consuming that number in ounces each day.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
There are several tips you can use to stay hydrated as a senior. Carrying a water bottle with you and drinking from it throughout the day is an easy way to ensure that your body is getting enough fluids, especially when outdoors or running errands. Eating fruits and vegetables that have high water content like cucumbers, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, pineapples, oranges, and strawberries helps you get those necessary fluids throughout the day.
Paying attention to your hydration levels and making it a priority throughout the day can also prove helpful. Drinking before you become thirsty can help prevent dehydration. It is much easier for your body to maintain necessary levels if fluids are consumed regularly, rather than trying to catch up after dehydration has already started setting in. Additionally, set reminders on your phone or watch to help you drink throughout the day.
If plain water isn't appealing, it can prove more difficult to keep up with overall hydration levels. Fortunately, there are several options you can use to jazz up water, including using flavored water drops or adding fruit or cucumber to your water.
Do You Need More Help with Hydration Reminders and Basic Care Tasks?
As seniors get older, they may need more help with a variety of tasks, including staying hydrated. Do you need more help at home, from keeping up with daily water intake to getting encouragement to go out and exercise? At Senior Helpers Hattiesburg, we provide in-home senior care to seniors in Laurel, Waynesboro, Collins, Poplarville, Wiggins, Sumrall, Ellisville, New Augusta, and Hattiesburg. Contact us to discuss the care options that can provide the greatest benefit for you.