Tips for Seniors to Stay Hydrated This Summer

As the weather gets warmer and activities increase, so will the demand for hydration. The summer months are the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. However, this also means that there is more chance for heat-related illnesses to arise. This means that you need to stay hydrated even more than usual. It’s not just what you eat but how much you are drinking that matters in the summer months. That’s why hydration is so important for elders. Here, nursing home owner Ephraim Zagelbaum shares some tips on how to help seniors stay hydrated this summer:

 

Dehydration and Seniors

As we get older, the risk of developing specific diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney failure increases. Hydration is essential for staying healthy and preventing diseases such as these. This is why it’s so important for seniors to drink enough water.

For many reasons, seniors are prone to dehydration. A major factor is age-related changes that make older adults less aware that they are thirsty. Moreover, aging bodies are less able to cope with temperature fluctuations. The heat and humidity of summer months make these threats even greater.

Overheating causes the body to sweat. This leads to fluid loss. Humidity prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling the body. As a result, the body needs more fluids. Insufficient fluid replacement can cause serious health problems and even death, explains Ephraim Zagelbaum.

 

Tips for staying hydrated this summer

Below, Ephraim Zagelbaum who is the Founder and CEO of Personal Healthcare, offers some suggestions for keeping a senior loved one hydrated this summer and all year round:

·        With each meal, drink water, milk, or juice.

·        Each time the senior takes a medication or vitamin, encourage them to drink a full glass of water.

·        Encourage the older adult to take frequent hydration breaks during the day. Set an alarm on their phone or call them if they have memory loss to remind them to drink.

·        Make sure they have reusable bottles to fill up with water each day. That way, they can keep track of how much water they drink.

·        Add lemon, lime, or berries to water to make it more appealing. Using colorful, reusable straws may encourage seniors to drink more water.

·        Staying hydrated isn't limited to drinking fluids. Many foods contain high amounts of water. Berries, lettuce, tomatoes, melon, cucumber, celery, bell peppers, and oranges are just a few examples. Make these foods a part of your senior loved one's diet.

 

How Much Liquid Do You Need During the Summer?

The amount of liquid that you need during the summer depends on your age and activity level. Adults of all ages should drink 48–64 ounces of liquid every day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This includes fruit juices, soups, and milk. Although sodas, coffee, and tea count as fluids, health professionals do not recommend them. This is because of the caffeine in them. It can have a diuretic effect, resulting in more fluid loss.