Proper hydration is crucial for people of all ages, but especially for seniors. As people get older, their bodies and needs change. It’s important to be aware and do all that you can to stay healthy.
There is much to know about hydration as a senior. Continue reading to learn why you need to drink water and how to better your hydration routine!
Lower Appetite
It’s easy to want to order a soda with lunch or drink a coffee in the morning because those are more fun to sip on than water. But water is the most important beverage any person can drink to improve their health.
A person’s appetite decreases as they age. You may not feel like eating large meals or drinking water throughout the day. This is why many older individuals don’t feel the symptoms of dehydration and consume fewer nutrients than what their bodies need.
It’s important to be conscious of your decisions about how much and what foods you eat, and how frequently you drink water to avoid additional problems.
Symptoms of Dehydration
The symptoms of dehydration are generally the same for people of all ages. These symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Dry skin
- Dark urine
- Urinating less often
Perhaps you aren’t drinking enough water because you despise frequently using the bathroom or have incontinence. Incontinence is a common condition among seniors that may affect their daily lives, and many seniors believe several untrue myths about the condition. The idea that reducing water intake can help decrease the likelihood of incontinence problems is one such myth.
If you have this condition, remember to drink enough water and stay hydrated to keep your body healthy. Whether you experience incontinence or not, your bladder will adapt over time to your new water consumption routine, and your body will reap the benefits.
Severe Dehydration Health Risks
Dehydration can cause more health complications. Younger individuals have a quicker rebound rate if they experience dehydration than seniors. But older individuals are more likely to endure serious health conditions from dehydration, such as:
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney failure
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Confusion or disorientation
Foods With High Water Content
Drinking water all day long can begin to feel like a chore. One way to stay hydrated is to eat foods that have a high water content. Some foods are mostly water, and this is a great way to eat a snack and get the water you need. Some foods that are abundant in water are:
- Watermelons
- Apples
- Peaches
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Carrots
- Zucchini
- Potatoes
- Plain yogurt
- Skim milk
- Soups
Most foods that contain a lot of water are fruits and vegetables. If you aren’t a huge fan of them, don’t worry! These aren’t the only options to ensure you’re hydrated throughout the day.
Blend a Fresh Fruit Smoothie
The best part about fruit smoothies is that you can customize them however you’d like! As mentioned above, fruits and vegetables contain a lot of water. Smoothies are a great way to stay hydrated, get proper nutrients, and enjoy a snack without directly eating fruits.
Remember that fruits are high in sugar, so it’s best to consume smoothies in moderation to accommodate any other medical conditions.
Now that you know more about hydration as a senior, be conscious of how much water and water-rich foods you consume each day. You can always ask a doctor for additional advice if needed.
