Seniors tend to enjoy the warm summer weather and being outside. Simply taking a walk or splashing in the pool is wonderful exercise. However, seniors shouldn't forget about staying properly hydrated. Due to the normal weakening of kidney functions, seniors are especially at risk for dehydration.
Symptoms of Dehydration
If you spend time outside during the summer, don't take the symptoms of dehydration lightly. They can be quite serious, especially for seniors. Watch out for the following:
If you become aware of any of these symptoms, drink one of the liquids listed below immediately
Spending as much time outdoors as possible is healthy and encouraged. However, hydration needs to be a top priority. Most of us need six to eight glasses of water a day. That is a lot of liquid, but it is certainly doable. Here are a few tips on how seniors can get enough liquids during those carefree summer months:
Water isn't Always Liquid
When we think of water, we literally consider that clear liquid that is so beneficial to our overall health. However, many fruits and vegetables are made up of mostly water. These include watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Imagine sipping a refreshing cup of gazpacho on a hot day. Or enjoying a refreshing salad. There are many creative ways to stay properly hydrated.
Use Moisturizer
We lose moisture through our skin. This is especially true in the summer, when we perspire a lot. Using plenty of water-based moisturizers throughout the day will help keep the skin hydrated. This is important for everyone, but specifically for seniors, whose skin tend to be on the dry side. Make daily moisturizing a habit.
In the Summertime, We Don't Glisten - We Sweat
When we spend time indoors, an air-conditioner helps keep us cool, even while exercising. As soon as we step outdoors, we become at risk for dehydration. Even a short walk can make as sweat a great deal. The more time we spend outside, the more we sweat. This means our body is losing precious hydration.
Exercising is highly recommended for all seniors. However, when the temperature keeps rising, we need to be careful. Much of our physical activity should take place indoors, we should at least look for shady areas. And always have a water bottle at hand.Taking just a few normal precautions will help keep us healthy and hydrated even in the hottest weather.
Choose Your Outdoor Times
Not all outdoor times are created equal. There is a huge difference between running errands at nine o'clock in the morning versus between noon and 2:00 p.m. Even during the hottest summer months, the morning hours are still somewhat cool. That is the optimal time for seniors to be outside without fear of becoming overly dehydrated. If you feel like a stroll, take a walk after dinner instead of after lunch.
Drink Different Types of Liquids
These days, there are many "sophisticated" hydrating choices. There is more to staying hydrated than drinking plain water.
A Bottle of Prevention...
When it comes to your health, prevention is the best
cure. During the summer, always have a bottle of water with you when leaving the
house. There are many water bottles on the market that are colorful, with a cute
design and motivational phrases that can be interesting conversation starters.
Best of all, they will ensure you always remain hydrated.
What Liquid Seniors
Should Avoid - Not All Liquids Are Created Equal
While you might be thirstier
than normal in the summer, try and avoid coffee, tea, and alcohol. Alcohol can
actually be quite dehydrating. If you must have a drink, accompany it with a
glass of water.
It is important for seniors to remain well-hydrated to remain
active and functioning at their best.
Give us a call today at (858)774-8528.