Maintaining adequate hydration is an essential component of health at every stage of life, yet can become more challenging as we grow older. For seniors, proper hydration has been associated with fewer falls, less constipation, better recoveries in orthopedic patients, reduced risk of bladder cancer in men and lower rates of fatal heart disease. Getting enough water in your body can prevent you from becoming dehydrated.
Signs of dehydration include:
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth or lips
- Cramps/constipation
- Headache/dizziness
- Stiff joints/muscle weakness
- Dark/odorous urine
Tips to increase hydration:
- Speak to your physician to find out how much water you need daily
- Keep a hydration log where you can easily update it
- Take sips rather than gulping down water all at once
- Drink steadily throughout the day, especially if you are active or older
- Carry a water bottle with you, so it is readily available
- Infuse water with flavor by using mint, vegetables (cucumber or celery), and/or fruits (citrus or berries)
