Drinking enough water is important for everyone, especially as we get older. A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that staying hydrated helps people stay healthier, avoid chronic illnesses, and even live longer.
Why Water Matters? Water keeps our bodies working properly. It helps control body temperature, carry nutrients, and remove waste. As we age, we may not feel thirsty as often, which makes it easier to get dehydrated. This can cause health problems.
The NIH study looked at data from over 11,000 adults over 30 years. Higher sodium levels in the blood is often a sign of not drinking enough water and may lead to causing additional problems such as more likely to:
- Age faster
- Develop diseases like heart failure, stroke, diabetes, and dementia
- Die earlier
How Much Water Do You Need? The National Academies of Medicine suggests:
- Women: 6-9 cups (1.5-2.2 liters) per day
- Men: 8-12 cups (2-3 liters) per day.
This includes water, juice, and water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Easy Ways to Drink More Water:
- Set reminders: Use alarms or notes to remind yourself to drink water
- Eat foods with water: Cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and soups help keep you hydrated.
- Keep water handy: A favorite bottle or cup can encourage more drinking.
- Check urine color: Light yellow urine means you’re well-hydrated (and clear color means you are super-well hydrated)
- Follow medical advice: Some health conditions may require different water intake levels, so check with a doctor if needed.
Why Do Caregivers Need to Hydrate Too? Caregivers also need to drink enough water to stay energized and focused. Dehydration can cause tiredness, headaches, and trouble concentrating, making caregiving harder.
By making hydration a daily habit, both caregivers and seniors can stay healthier and feel better. A simple glass of water can make a big difference!
While staying hydrated is important, drinking too much water can be harmful. In rare cases, excess water can dilute sodium levels in the blood, leading to hyponatremia. This condition can cause weakness, nausea, fatigue, confusion, and muscle cramps.
To stay healthy, focus on drinking enough water, not too little and not too much. Listen to your body, and if you have any health concerns, consult a doctor.
