How to Keep the Elderly Hydrated, Even if They Don’t Like Water

We always hear about the importance of drinking eight glasses of water a day but let’s face it, water is not always the tastiest beverage. However, water is vital for older adults, especially. And luckily, there are ways to incorporate it into one’s diet even if they don’t like water. Why is water important for older adults? And how do you go about preventing dehydration in the elderly? In this post, we’ll review what you need to know about hydration and the elderly.

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Why Is There a Lack of Hydration in the Elderly?

Let’s talk about how many senior people don’t like water. With age, appetite and thirst tend to diminish. That means that even if your body craves fluids, you may not personally be aware of it. Furthermore, older adults may experience body composition changes that leave them with less water in their bodies to start with. Certain medications can also create a lack of elderly hydration.

Why Is Hydration Important in Elderly?

According to the National Council on Aging, hydration in the elderly is important for the following reasons:

• Improved brain performance. Even mild dehydration — just 2% fluid loss — can impact memory, mood, concentration, and reaction time. Drinking more water can enhance cognition, stabilize emotions, and reduce anxiety.
• Digestive harmony. Water is essential for proper digestion. Without enough, you may experience bloating, heartburn, and irregular bowel movements. Staying hydrated helps keep digestion on track, especially with mineral water enriched with sodium and magnesium.
• More energy. Dehydration slows circulation and oxygen flow, making the heart work harder and causing fatigue. Drinking enough water keeps energy levels up and enhances focus.
• Weight management. Water promotes fullness between meals and boosts metabolism. Studies show that increased water intake before meals can aid in weight loss and reduce calorie consumption.
• Decreased joint pain. Cartilage in joints is about 80% water. Staying hydrated lubricates joints, reducing friction and minimizing discomfort.
• Better temperature regulation. Dehydration makes the body store more heat, reducing heat tolerance. Drinking enough water helps maintain sweat production, preventing heat-related illnesses.
• Kidney stone prevention. Hydration dilutes minerals in the urinary tract, lowering the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
• Healthier heart. Water keeps blood properly balanced with essential electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are crucial for heart function.
• Improved detoxification. Drinking sufficient water supports the body’s natural detox processes through urination, perspiration, breathing, and bowel movements.
• Fewer headaches. Even mild dehydration can trigger headaches or migraines. Staying hydrated helps prevent these discomforts.

What Are Signs of Lack of Hydration for Elderly?

Signs of dehydration in older adults include:

• Chills or heat intolerance
• Dizziness or loss of coordination
• Dry mouth and/or a dry cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Flushed skin
• Headache
• Muscle cramps due to the loss of electrolytes via sweating
• Rapid breathing and/or heartbeat
• Trouble urinating

Finally, let’s discuss how to keep the elderly hydrated.

How Do You Provide More Hydration for Seniors?

Providing the best water for seniors doesn’t necessarily mean picking out the best brand of spring water. It can simply mean finding more ways to incorporate water into their diet. Cleveland Clinic offers the following solutions for preventing dehydration in older adults.

• Mix it up. Water is best, but it can get boring. Add fruit like lemon or strawberries, or try milk, milk alternatives, or diluted juice to stay hydrated.
• Limit caffeine. Coffee and tea can cause fluid loss and should be enjoyed only in moderation.
• Eat hydrating foods. Many foods, like cucumbers, celery, and watermelon (91% water), help with hydration. Even frozen fruit pops count!
• Stay consistent. Sip fluids throughout the day, perhaps with a reusable water bottle, especially in hot weather. For older adults, small sips work better than large amounts at once.
• Know your needs. Some conditions, like heart failure, require fluid limits. Check with your doctor before making changes.

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