Best Ways to Hydrate
Headrush and dizziness after standing up are a major falls risk for people of all ages. Though drinking water is the easiest way to fight dehydration, there are plenty of reasons why a person might have trouble staying hydrated. If you or a loved one is looking to prevent falls, here’s a quick guide on challenges to hydrating and how to overcome them.
What Are Some Barriers to Staying Hydrated?
Different generations and cultures have different mindsets around how much water to drink and when. But if an older adult is suddenly hesitant to drink water, there might be a few reasons tied to aging.
For example:
- A change in medication causing frequent urination
- A loss of coordination causing fear of spills or breaking glasses
- New mouth or dental sensitivity
- Lack of bladder control
Any of these reasons might prevent an older adult from drinking more water. However, they may be embarrassed to discuss it. That’s why it’s important to have an honest discussion with an older adult and see if there’s a deeper issue that’s preventing them from drinking water when they’re thirsty.
How Can I Make Water Easier to Drink?
Even if there’s no medical issue at play, some older adults may not enjoy the sensation of a tall, ice-cold glass of water. Consider offering warm or hot water, or tea instead. Drinking hot tea with family can turn staying hydrated from a chore into a relaxing activity.
An additional tip is to drink from smaller cups more frequently. It can feel uncomfortable to drink too much at once. Plus, rushed trips to the bathroom could cause falls.
What Are Some Alternatives to Water?
For bed-bound older adults or people with disabilities, it can be difficult for caregivers to maneuver water into their loved one’s mouth. A denser, thicker drink can help a person stay hydrated while lowering the risk of choking.
Some hydrating foods and snacks include:
- Soup
- Jello
- Thickened water
- Smoothies
Struggling to balance your caregiving responsibilities with preparing nutritious and easy-to-eat meals for a loved one? Contact Boston ElderINFO at 617-292-6211 or by clicking the button below to learn more about meal services near you.