17/07/2023
VITAL LIVING: HYDRATION FOR OUR ELDERLY
Hydration is very important for the human body to function, 60 percent of our body is made of water! It is vital. However, the elderly struggle to stay hydrated as their bodies have difficulty retaining water.
SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
Having adequate fluid in your body is important to continue pumping blood through to vital organs. There are a few easy to notice signs of dehydration that you should take note of.
The most common signs or side effects of dehydration include:
Fatigue or lethargy
Muscle weakness and cramps
Cracked lips
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Forgetfulness and confusion
Deep rapid breathing or an increased heart rate or low blood pressure
Sunken eyes
Dry or sticky mucus around and in the mouth
Low urination
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
TIPS TO HYDRATE SENIORS
* DRINK GOOD QUALITY NATURAL SPRING WATER! Tap water contains toxic chemicals that dehydrate the body and are neurotoxins for the brain.
* If drinking water is too difficult, attempt to swap straight water with alternatives.
* To encourage hydration, instead drink cordials (mixed in with water), fruit or vegetable juices, and change up the temperature of drinks (like non-caffeinated tea or cooling homemade lemonade).
* Avoid driving caffeinated drinks and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.
* Keep a journal to track your fluid intake or even set a reminder on your phone to drink water, it can give you the kick you need to rehydrate.
* Eating water-rich foods can be another way to keep your hydration at steady levels. For example, cucumbers are 96 percent water, and other vegetables, like tomato, spinach, broccoli and brussel sprouts are also water-rich.
