Seniors are prone to dehydration more than any other segment of the population. The causes of this range from simple forgetfulness to the fact that many prescription drugs cause fluid loss. The human body is made up of more than 70 percent water, and water is necessary for every function the body performs, which is why it’s important to stay hydrated. Here are several creative ways you can ensure your senior loved one gets enough fluids.
Encourage Drinking Infused Water
Plain old water can get pretty boring if that’s all your loved one is drinking. Learning to make infusions is an easy way to add some flavor. Infusions are made by simply adding fruit or vegetable slices to cold water. For example, cucumber, lemon, and basil is a popular flavor combination. Another idea is to use coconut water. This sweet water from the coconut itself has the added benefit of providing plenty of potassium. Coconut water infused with strawberries is particularly tasty.
Staying well hydrated is an essential component of optimal health. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Make Smoothies & Shakes
Using a high-speed blender to liquefy fruits and vegetables is a great way to increase hydration. Smoothies are tasty and quite easy to make. Recipes abound on the Internet and in books and magazines. The great thing about this method is that you can also add a bit of protein powder to increase the overall nutritive value. Try to avoid dairy while blending your loved one’s smoothie, as the fat content can lead to dehydration. Instead, use low-sugar juices or coconut water for additional hydration.
Seniors with cognitive impairment due to dementia may need extra help remembering to drink plenty of fluids. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Lincoln families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
Cook Savory Bone Broths
Learn to make a homemade bone broth. Beef and chicken are the most popular flavors. In addition to being extremely healthy, they have a very high water content. Broths are also easy for seniors to consume and keep down, and they’re highly desirable during cold weather. If your loved one complains about the chill, this is a perfect remedy that can solve several problems at once. Keep your eye on the amount of salt you add, and never use store-bought broth.
Serve Hydrating Foods
Lastly, remember not all liquids hydrate, and what you avoid can be as important as what you consume. For example, coffee is a strong diuretic and will hasten dehydration, as will strong teas and soft drinks. Avoid these items and opt for fruits and vegetables, which are around 70 percent water. Many foods have high water content and are excellent sources of hydration. Watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, cucumbers, and zucchini contain about 92 percent water, providing a tasty, filling alternative to drinking plain water. Since these items are easy to keep on hand, they can be a perfect way to keep your loved one hydrated. Adding them to as many meals as you can is a great way to increase your loved one’s water intake.
Hydration and diet are important aspects of senior health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Lincoln, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.