Keeping the body hydrated is particularly important for the elderly. In addition to proper diet and exercise, hydration plays a very significant role in healthy living for seniors. With the warm weather approaching, the risk for seniors suffering from dehydration increases.
A loss of hydration can impact how seniors look and feel. As our body ages, we experience a decrease in our total body water and our thirst sensation also decreases.
Dehydration, therefore, can happen much more quickly and occurs more frequently in our seniors. And the loss of fluid can be serious, affecting the heart, kidneys and brain and in extreme cases can be life threatening. There is also an increased risk of falling because dehydration can make seniors weak and dizzy.
Water assists with digestion, balances our metabolism, regulates body temperature, helps headaches, back pain, asthma, arthritis pain and hypertension. Water also aids the immune system so those with low water intake, may suffer more frequently from common viruses. Water can also be a preventative medicine for serious diseases such as colon and bladder cancer, and perhaps even for breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Urine is a great indicator of hydration levels. Healthy urine should be very pale yellow.
Dark yellow or odorous urine is a symptom of dehydration and an indication that more water must be consumed.
The good news is, staying hydrated is easy!
Here are some simple ways to prevent dehydration:
• Do not judge your need for water by thirst. Drink water whether you are thirsty or not.
• Be aware of certain foods and beverages that promote water loss, such as coffee, tea and soft sugared drinks.
• Increase your water intake by consuming foods like oranges, watermelon, tomatoes and leafy green vegetables.
• When leaving the home, get in the habit of taking a bottle of water with you. Especially in the hot summer months
Drinking water is one of the most important elements to healthy aging. So get in the habit of keeping a glass or a bottle of water handy at all times and have a happy, healthy and safe summer!
For more information on tips for Seniors, or Assisted Living Communities, contact Mary Dembkowski at Summerhill Villa. Our phone number is 661-254-9933.