The Importance of Hydration for Seniors

The human body is 65% water, so hydration is extremely important to support body functions such as digestion and temperature regulation. Staying hydrated is important for us at every stage of life, but there are several benefits that are extremely relevant to senior citizens. Keep reading to learn about common barriers to hydration seniors face, and tips and tricks to combat them!

The Benefits of Proper Hydration

• Heart Health: Because blood is made of 55% water, staying hydrated can help your body to maintain the proper blood volume so that your heart can pump blood through your body more easily.

• Improved Brain Performance: Because proper hydration promotes blood flow throughout the body, which especially positively effects brain function! Increased blood flow and oxygen in the brain can improve memory function, concentration, and balance moods and emotions.

• Decreased Joint Pain: The cartilage in our joints is made up of 60-80% water. When you are dehydrated, your body pulls water from other places in your body which can cause this cartilage to lose elasticity and cushion.

• Improved Digestion: Water intake is an important component in digestion. When you are hydrated your body is more easily able to digest food and make use of the vitamins and nutrients in your meals.

• Kidney Stone Prevention: Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals that can form in the bladder. They cause extreme pain and urinary issues, but staying hydrated helps to dilute the minerals in urine and prevent kidney stone development.

HOW AGE AFFECTS HYDRATION LEVELS

• The Feeling of Thirst Weakens with Age: Studies have shown that senior citizens report lower levels of thirst compared to those aged younger than 65. With little to no thirst indications, it is easy to see why so many seniors are unknowingly dehydrated.

• Kidney Function Decline: Kidneys help your body to filter and preserve water. But as adults age, their kidneys become less efficient. This can lead to more frequent urination, fluid loss, and dehydration.

• Lower Muscle Mass in Seniors: One function of muscle mass is to retain and store water. Because adults lose muscle mass naturally as they age, their overall water percentage is lower than that of someone younger with a similar build. With less space to retain water, seniors tend to become dehydrated much more quickly.

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Eight Glasses A Day: According to the Mayo Clinic, you should strive to drink eight glasses of water per day! If you'd like to make your water more interesting, try adding a hydrating flavor packet!

• Reusable Water Bottle (with a straw!): Carry a large refillable water bottle with you throughout the day to make sure a sip of water is always in reach. Studies have shown that people drink more water if their drinking receptacle has a straw, so be sure to choose a reusable bottle with a straw to take advantage of it!

• Eat Water Rich Foods: Add fruits and veggies with a high water content, such as watermelon and cucumbers, to your meals to pack a hydrating punch. Dishes with a lot of liquid like soup will also help you to remain hydrated.

• Create Healthy Routines: Make drinking water second nature by incorporating it into your existing routines. Drink a glass of water before every meal or after every time you use the restroom to make sure you are replenishing your fluids!

In conclusion, maintaining proper hydration is essential for seniors to support their overall health and well-being. As age-related factors can hinder their ability to recognize thirst and retain water, it becomes crucial to implement strategies that encourage regular fluid intake. By understanding the benefits of hydration and overcoming common barriers, seniors can enhance their heart health, brain performance, joint function, digestion, and prevent kidney stones. Simple tips, such as drinking enough water daily, using a reusable water bottle, incorporating water-rich foods into meals, and establishing healthy routines can significantly improve hydration levels. Prioritizing hydration is a vital step toward a healthier and more vibrant life for seniors.