Staying hydrated is incredibly important, especially for seniors. As we age, our thirst sensation becomes less reliable, and it becomes more difficult to tell when we need fluids. As a result, you may have to take more deliberate steps to ensure that you drink enough throughout the day. Fortunately, there are several things you can do that can help remind you to stay hydrated.
Reasons Seniors Might Not Feel Thirsty
There are several potential reasons why seniors may not feel thirsty, including medications, illnesses, and lowered threshold for thirst. Medications used to treat chronic conditions can affect how often we need to drink fluids. Some medical conditions can also interfere with the body's ability to store water or sense hunger signals. Additionally, as we age, our bodies become less able to sense thirst, so we need to take proactive steps to stay well-hydrated at all times.
Strategies to Stay Hydrated When You Don't Feel Thirsty
To ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the day, it is best to get in the habit of drinking fluids at specific times during the day. Eating foods with a high water content like fruits and vegetables can also keep your body hydrated. Additionally, you can set an app on your phone that will issue reminders telling when to drink more fluids or monitor urine color to make sure it's not too dark, indicating dehydration.
Keeping plenty of fresh water and other fluids close at hand is important as well since they come in many forms and flavors (i.e., flavored waters, sports drinks) that may help entice someone in need of extra liquid intake. As you develop a habit of drinking more regularly, you may find that the task becomes automatic, which can increase the odds that you will stay better hydrated throughout the day.
Finally, consider the benefits of having a loved one or caregiver issue reminders about hydration. When you do not have the same thirst cues you used to, it can be easy to forget the importance of hydration. A reminder from a caregiver, on the other hand, can help encourage you to drink plenty of water. Consider making it a challenge that you both engage in together or simply sharing your progress on the journey to better hydration.
Do You Need More Help with Hydration Reminders and Other Basic Care?
For many seniors, staying properly hydrated isn't the only challenge that may require a little more assistance. Many seniors find themselves struggling with other mobility-related challenges, especially as energy drops with age. At Senior Helpers Hattiesburg, we can offer assistance to seniors in Laurel, Waynesboro, Collins, Poplarville, Wiggins, Sumrall, Ellisville, New Augusta, and Hattiesburg as they navigate self-care tasks with increasing age. Our in-home care providers can help with medication reminders, hydration reminders, meal planning and prep, and basic home care tasks that can make it easier for seniors to stay active, healthy, and engaged. Contact us today to learn more about our services.