Although it’s important to stay hydrated at all ages, as you get older, your body holds less water due to changes in body composition. Therefore, it only takes a small amount of water loss for you to become dehydrated and suffer consequences for your health. As you get older, you also become less thirsty throughout the day, even though your body requires more fluids. This is because, as we age, our thirst becomes less intense. Here are some recommendations made by a top provider of elderly home care services.
How Can Dehydration Be Prevented?
Fortunately, there are numerous ways to increase your water intake and guard against dehydration.
Up your water intake
Set a timer to remind you to hydrate every 30 minutes. Keep a bottle or glass of water nearby so that you always have access to it and will be reminded to drink more when you see it. Add some fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs to plain water to change the flavour if you don’t like it. Don’t forget to include beverages like coffee, tea, juice, and smoothies; just be mindful of their caloric or sugar content.
Drink broths or soups
By incorporating a variety of hot and cold soups into your diet, you can increase your fluid intake and get more nutrients into your system. You should always have some soup in the freezer on hand for quick meals since many soups freeze well. Given their high water content, yogurt and cottage cheese also have advantages that shouldn’t be disregarded. A companion caregiver can help you with food preparation if you are unable to do it on your own.
Consume more seasonal food
Many fruits and vegetables, including celery, strawberries, peaches, cantaloupe, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, and watermelon, have high water content. You can naturally help yourself increase your water intake by eating these foods as a snack or as part of a meal.
How elder care can be helpful
Seniors who want to lower their risk of dehydration should consider hiring in-home caregivers. A caregiver can not only ensure that clean water is easy to get to, but they can also give regular reminders to continue drinking throughout the day. Furthermore, in-home care providers can help with meal preparation and planning so that foods with a high water content are easily accessible for meals and snacks. Additionally, they can be alert for indications of possible dehydration and promote increased water consumption or seek medical attention. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about the numerous benefits of personal care aide services for seniors, call Heaven Sent Home Care.
