Hydration Help

Studies have shown that aging adults perceive thirst differently than children and young adults, which often causes them to not feel thirsty even though their body needs hydration. A person with dementia may simply forget to drink enough water. Older adults may not realize the importance of drinking enough. Those who are able to understand should be educated, given a graduated cup and their preferred beverage. Those with cognitive impairment need frequent drink offers. If you are caring for an older adult, or if you are an older adult searching for tips to stay hydrated, we’ve collected some suggestions to encourage fluid intake.

1. Alternative fluid sources:

Older adults don’t have to drink only plain water to get hydrated. Coffee, tea, fruit juice, sweetened beverages, fruits, and vegetables all contain water. If you are caring for someone who really hates drinking fluids, serve them more foods with high water content to increase their hydration.

2. Keep water easily accessible:

Sometimes, making it easy for older adults to serve themselves could encourage them to drink more water. Try putting a lightweight pitcher of water and a cup near their favorite seat.

3. Experiment with different temperatures:

Many people have a preference between hot and cold drinks. Experiment to find out which type they like better. Try warming up juices, making decaffeinated iced coffee with cream, or adding soda water to make drinks bubbly.

4. Try something savory:

Some older adults may enjoy drinking hot soup or broth, especially in cold weather. Broth is easy to make and can come from a can, box, or powder. 

5. Make popsicles:

Homemade popsicles made from fruit juice or a mixture of juice and water are a great summer treat. They’re also an easy way to get fluids.

6. Offer something sweet:

Some older adults may be very resistant to drinking. Try enticing them with smoothies, milkshakes, Ensure, or sports drinks. They may enjoy the flavor or texture and be willing to drink these beverages.

Don’t be afraid to get creative, and arm yourself with a variety of ideas in case their preferences change. Be well and stay hydrated!

 

HELPFUL HINTS 💧

Use a small glass vs a large one. It is easier to hold and feels like if they drink all of it, they have accomplished something when it is finished.

Fill a container with the amount of fluids that is needed to drink for a single day. Only pour from that container.

Although water is generally recommended as the best option, there are some substitutions that are acceptable.

For individuals who constantly request less healthy fluids such as caffeinated drinks, soda, etc, the occasional indulgence is appropriate to encourage drinking.

Be careful of health issues and check with the doctor when you have questions. For example, don’t give: high sodium drinks to someone with high blood pressure, milkshakes to someone already overweight and/or with high cholesterol, or heavily sweetened drinks to a diabetic.

 

DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding exercise and health care. It is presented as general advice on health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Before beginning any new exercise program it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your personal physician. This article is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.