This article was contributed by Victoria Cooper, Writer & Editor at Home Water Research.
As you age, it becomes harder for your body to regulate fluids and stay hydrated. Certain medications, chronic conditions, illnesses, and decreased thirst perception are all elements that can contribute to dehydration in seniors. It’s recommended that adults over 65 drink 6 to 8 cups of water per day. While simply drinking more water is the clear solution, sometimes that’s easier said than done. So, how do seniors make drinking water more appealing? We have some ideas!
8 Ways For Seniors To Stay Hydrated
1. Keep a pitcher within close reach.
Position a pitcher filled with water on a table or countertop close to where you spend most of your time. This way, you’ll be reminded to take a sip every time you walk past! Most people find that filtered water tastes better, and by using a water filter pitcher, you can be sure the water is as pure as possible.
2. Eat plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables.
You might be surprised to learn that water content in food actually counts towards your recommended eight glasses of water per day! Fruits and veggies like watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, and oranges are actually more than 80% water. Try incorporating these foods into snacks and meals for a delicious method of reaching your daily goal.
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3. Drink herbal tea.
Tea and coffee count! However, the healthiest option is a herbal tea like chamomile or lavender. Plus, it can be soothing and has added health benefits.
4. Use a water tracker app.
Many apps are available that make it fun and easy to track your water intake. Download one to help set daily goals. One such app is Hydro Coach, which even sends reminders to drink water!
Related: 10 Healthy Aging Tips For Retirees
5. Add slices of cucumber or lemon to the water.
For those who find plain water boring, try adding slices of cucumber or lemon. This will give the water light and refreshing flavor without adding any sugar.
6. Get moving.
Sometimes, it takes a little physical activity to work up a thirst. Taking a short walk around the block or doing some simple exercises at home might be just enough to make you reach for that water bottle.
7. Drink before you eat.
Sometimes, you might be so focused on eating that you forget to drink. Try to make it a habit of drinking water before meals. This not only helps with hydration but can also aid in digestion.
8. Buy a reusable water bottle.
Many seniors find it helpful to have a water bottle with them at all times. That way, they can take a sip whenever they feel thirsty without getting up out of their seat. Investing in a good quality reusable water bottle is worth it in the long run and helps reduce plastic waste.
Staying Hydrated As You Age
Seniors should drink more water for various reasons, the most important being dehydration prevention. There are many ways to help seniors drink more water, from keeping a pitcher of filtered water within reach to adding slices of cucumber or lemon to their drink. Taking walks and drinking before meals are also great habits to get into.
Victoria Cooper
Writer & Editor at Home Water ResearchThis article was contributed by Victoria Cooper, Writer & Editor at Home Water Research. Victoria moved to the US in 2017 when her husband joined Ohio State University as a researcher. Since then, she’s been working as a freelancer and loves writing about water treatment and filtration, home improvement, and recycling.
