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Senior Resources » 8 Surprisingly Easy Tricks for Seniors to Stay Hydrated

8 Surprisingly Easy Tricks for Seniors to Stay Hydrated

senior woman drinking water out of a fancy glass

As you age, staying hydrated becomes more than just a health tip; it turns into a vital part of your daily routine. However, we understand that merely telling you to ‘drink more water’ may seem like an oversimplification. Certain medications, chronic conditions, illnesses, and even a diminished sense of thirst – which can all be common companions of aging – can often make hydration a bit of a challenge.

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So, now for the million-dollar question: how can seniors make drinking water more appealing and thus, easier to incorporate into their daily routine?

Fear not! We have some ideas. Here’s a list of creative and effective strategies to help you meet your daily hydration goals (which should be 6 to 8 cups of water)!

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1. Keep a pitcher within reach.

glass water pitcher and glasses on a table

It can be easy to just plain old forget to drink water amidst the hustle and bustle of life. However, there’s a simple trick that can help. Try placing a pitcher filled with water on a table or countertop close to where you spend most of your time during the day. This could be your work desk, the kitchen table, or even the coffee table in your living room. The mere sight of this pitcher will serve as your reminder to take a drink every time you walk past. It’s a passive yet effective way to ensure you’re getting the hydration your body needs!

2. Eat plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables.

watermelon

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.

3. Drink herbal tea.

herbal tea

Tea and coffee count! However, the healthiest option is an herbal tea like chamomile or lavender. Plus, it can be soothing and has added health benefits.

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4. Use a water tracker app.

two senior women looking at a cell phone together

Consider downloading one of these water intake tracking apps to help meet your daily hydration goals. With reminders and tracking features, these apps make it easy and enjoyable to stay on top of your water consumption.

  • Hydro Coach: This app stands out for its ability to set daily hydration goals and send reminders to drink water.
  • Waterllama: Known for its user-friendly interface and smart reminders, it also features a water intake goal calculator to customize your hydration targets based on personal needs. Download it here.
  • WaterMinder: Praised for its sleek design and detailed logs, WaterMinder provides a comprehensive view of your hydration habits. Check out their website, here.
  • Water Time Drink Tracker & Reminder: An excellent choice for those seeking simplicity in their water tracking app. Check it out on the Google Play Store.
  • Water Drink Reminder: Selected as the Best Self-Improvement App by Google Play, this app effectively reminds you to hydrate regularly.
  • Water Reminder by VGFIT: Offers gentle reminders to drink water, ensuring you stay well-hydrated throughout the day.

5. Add slices of cucumber or lemon to the water.

lemon pitcher of water

For those who find plain water boring, try adding slices of cucumber or lemon. This will give the water a light and refreshing flavor without adding any sugar.

Cucumber water has a light, rejuvenating flavor that can make hydrating feel like a treat rather than a chore. The cucumber adds a subtle hint of freshness that can help you look forward to your next sip. On top of that, cucumbers are rich in vitamins and minerals, like vitamin K and potassium, which can provide additional health benefits.

Adding slices of lemon to your water can also be beneficial. The citrusy zing of lemon can make your water more appealing to drink, encouraging you to drink more throughout the day. Plus, lemons are packed with vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

6. Get moving.

walking couple

At times, the key to sparking a sense of thirst lies in engaging in some light physical activity. Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood or performing straightforward exercises within the comfort of your home, these simple actions can stimulate your body’s need for hydration. As you engage your muscles and elevate your heart rate, your body naturally starts to crave replenishment, making that water bottle significantly more appealing.

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Of course, incorporating these short bouts of exercise into your daily routine not only promotes hydration but also contributes to overall health and well-being. Physical activity, no matter how minimal, helps to boost metabolism, improve mood, and enhance your cardiovascular health. So, by simply taking a walk or doing some at-home exercises, you’re not just working towards better hydration, but also fostering a healthier lifestyle! So, the next time you find it challenging to drink enough water, remember that a little movement can go a long way in encouraging you to reach for that water bottle.

7. Drink before you eat.

drinking water senior couple

Drinking water before meals does more than just quench your thirst; it also plays a critical role in digestion. Water is essential in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients effectively. When you hydrate before eating, you prepare your digestive system for the task ahead, leading to more efficient digestion. What’s more, water can help regulate your appetite. A glass of water before a meal can make you feel slightly full, preventing overeating. So, this simple habit of drinking water before meals not only assists in maintaining optimal hydration but also aids in digestion and weight management. It’s a small change that can make a significant impact on your health.

8. Buy a reusable water bottle.

water bottle

Constant trips to the kitchen for a glass of water can be inconvenient, especially for seniors with mobility trouble. A practical solution to this is having a water bottle within arm’s reach at all times. This way, a refreshing sip of water is always just a moment away, eliminating the need to get up from your seat every time you feel thirsty.

Investing in a high-quality reusable water bottle can bring about long-term benefits. Not only does it provide a personal and convenient source of hydration, but it also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste. Single-use plastic bottles are a significant contributor to global pollution. By opting for a reusable water bottle, seniors can play their part in preserving the environment while also enjoying the convenience it offers. Plus, many reusable bottles are insulated, keeping water cool and more inviting to drink. So, not only is a good quality reusable water bottle a wise investment for health and convenience, but it’s also a small step towards a more sustainable future.

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Originally published February 19, 2024

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