Hydration Day is celebrated in June.
Why do our doctors tell us to always drink more water? If we want to lose weight, we are told to drink more water. If we have a headache or we are tired, we know we should drink more water.
But we hate water. It tastes funny. It’s hard to remember to drink it.
Can’t I just put some flavor in it, albeit sugar water?
How about coffee or tea? That’s water!
How about soda, that’s carbonated water?
So what’s up with water?
1. Enhanced Cognitive Function and Mental Clarity
Benefit: Staying hydrated helps maintain optimal brain function. Dehydration can lead to confusion, memory issues, and fatigue, which are particularly concerning for seniors.
Goal: To stay mentally sharp and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Desire: To enjoy activities like reading, puzzles, and conversations with loved ones without the frustration of forgetfulness or mental fog.
2. Improved Digestion and Regularity
Benefit: Adequate water intake aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common issue among older adults.
Goal: To maintain a comfortable and regular digestive system.
Desire: To enjoy meals and social dining experiences without discomfort or the need for frequent medical interventions.
3. Better Joint Health and Mobility
Benefit: Water helps lubricate and cushion joints, which can reduce pain and stiffness, especially in conditions like arthritis.
Goal: To stay active and mobile, reducing the need for pain medications and improving overall quality of life.
Desire: To participate in physical activities, whether it’s a morning walk, gardening, or playing with grandchildren, without the hindrance of joint pain.
4. Healthy Skin and Appearance
Benefit: Hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces dryness, making skin look healthier and more youthful.
Goal: To preserve skin health and prevent issues like dry skin, itching, and irritation.
Desire: To feel confident in one’s appearance and reduce the need for expensive skincare treatments.
5. Enhanced Kidney Function and Detoxification
Benefit: Drinking enough water supports kidney function, helping to flush out toxins and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones.
Goal: To maintain optimal kidney health and avoid the discomfort and complications of UTIs and kidney issues.
Desire: To enjoy life without the disruption of frequent medical appointments or hospital visits due to kidney-related problems.
Practical Tips to Encourage Hydration in Seniors:
- Keep Water Accessible: Place water bottles or glasses within easy reach around the house.
- Flavor It Up: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to water to make it more appealing.
- Track Intake: Use a journal or an app to monitor daily water consumption.
- Routine Reminders: Set regular reminders to drink water throughout the day.
- Social Hydration: Encourage drinking water during social activities like meals or group gatherings.
- Attached drinking a glass to an activity. Example: "Before loading the dishwasher, I must drink a glass of water."
You don't have to drink gallons of water. In fact, that's dangerous.
It's been suggested that you drink 8 glasses of water a day but ask your doctor.
Spread it out throughout the day and definitely drink a glass upon waking (before your coffee or tea) as you haven't had any in 8 hours of sleep!
