How Proper Hydration Supports Healthy Aging

Water is important for so many bodily functions, including pumping blood to your heart, regulating your body temperature, promoting healthy joints, protecting your organs, and encouraging healthy digestion. While hydration is essential for health at every age, as an older adult, you can become dehydrated much more easily for many reasons.

• You have less water in your body.
• You may be less likely to feel thirsty when you need water.
• Many medications can cause dehydration, such as diuretics, laxatives, and blood pressure medication.
• You are more likely to have reduced kidney function.

Now that warmer temperatures are here, it’s even more important to make sure you are drinking enough water to stay safe, avoid heat-related complications, and feel your best while enjoying the outdoors.

Are You Dehydrated?

Common dehydration signs include:

• Dizziness and fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle weakness and cramping
• Dark urine
• Dry mouth or cough
• Low blood pressure
• Lack of coordination and balance
• Flushed skin
• Anxiety or agitation

Tips for Staying Hydrated

While the solution to getting more water may seem simple, many people struggle to consume enough water or are unsure of how much you actually need for optimal health. The amount of water you need each day varies depending on your weight and health conditions, so the best way to know is to talk to your doctor. In general, older adults need about 1.5 to 2 liters (50 to 67 ounces) of water a day.

If you often find yourself forgetting to drink water throughout the day, these tips will help you remember to fill up as well as discover other ways to stay hydrated.

• Know your health: People with certain medical conditions have more specific requirements for healthy hydration. It’s crucial to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your water-drinking habits to make sure you get the proper amount for your body and needs.
• Create a hydration routine: Make water consumption part of your routine by consistently sipping on it throughout the day, particularly when temperatures rise. A reusable water bottle or tumbler is a great way to drink your daily water slowly because you can take it wherever you go. Get a bottle that has the ounces indicated so that you can easily track how much water you consume each day.
• Eat hydrating foods: Foods high in water content, such as cucumbers, celery, watermelon, oranges, bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, and pineapple, can also help you stay hydrated.
• Spice it up: Many people struggle to drink enough water because of its lack of flavor. However, water is the best liquid for hydration because many flavored drinks are full of sugar and artificial sweeteners, which can dehydrate you further. If drinking water bores your tastebuds, try making it more interesting by adding fresh citrus, cucumber, or berries.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeinated and alcoholic drinks are significantly dehydrating, especially if you overindulge. Avoid or limit drinks with a diuretic effect and always make sure to compensate with adequate water if you do consume them.

Enjoy a Healthy Lifestyle at Windmere

Windmere encourages independence and an active, healthy lifestyle, with three nutritious and delicious meals a day, a warm, social atmosphere, and the comfort of convenient support services and accessible care. To learn more about Windmere or schedule a tour, please (973) 427-4087 or email InfoWindmere@WindmereNJ.org.