How to stay Hydrated as a senior

How to stay hydrated as a senior

How to stay Hydrated as a senior
NDIS Provider
Home Care Package Provider

Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy the great Australian outdoors, but it can also pose some risks for the older members of our community – especially when it comes to hydration.

Water plays an important role in how our body functions. It help sregulate our body temperature, flushes toxins from the body, carries oxygen and nutrients to our cells, and acts as a shock absorber for our brains.

So, it goes without saying that keeping up our fluid levels is key to good health. Studies have shown that not getting enough water can not only cause constipation, but is linked to serious long-term health conditions such as infections, bladder cancer and heart disease. On the flip side, staying hydrated not only makes your body feel good, but boosts mental wellbeing, prevents muscle cramps, alleviates some headaches, helps prevent urinary tract infections and keeps the digestive system in good order. That’s plenty of reasons to get enough water in you!

Dehydrationand ageing

Dehydration, a condition when a person loses more fluid from their body than they take in, is a common risk for seniors. This is because we lose our sense of thirst as we age, leading us to consume less fluids. This is more pronounced in people with dementia, as memory loss is a contributor to losing track of daily meals and drinking less on a regular basis. Problems with toileting and continence can also cause significant amounts of anxiety, impacting a person’s willingness to drink throughout the day.

Symptoms of dehydration

It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of dehydration as you age, or if you care for someone who is elderly. Mild to moderate dehydration symptoms include:

  • a dry mouth, lips and tongue
  • headache
  • dark urine (in most cases, odourless and pale-coloured urine is a sign of good hydration, while strong-smelling and dark-coloured urine indicates dehydration)
  • dizziness or light-headedness
  • flushed skin
  • fatigue
  • irritability

Severe dehydration is a more serious condition. Symptoms include:

  • extreme thirst
  • dry mouth
  • confusion
  • lethargy or drowsiness
  • rapid breathing
  • fast heart rate
  • low blood pressure
  • little or no urine
  • fainting
  • high fever
  • blue lips and blotchy skin
  • cold hands and feet
  • weak and rapid pulse

Severe hydration needs immediate medical treatment, so call 000 if you suspect this is the case. Mild dehydration can be treated by consuming more fluids (except for tea, coffee or alcohol). If you need help getting your loved one to drink more or suspect they are suffering from mild dehydration, speak to your loved one’s home carer, GP or other medical professional for advice.

Tips on how to stay hydrated

Drinking enough fluids each day can be challenging as we age and our sense of thirst decreases. Here are some tips on how to ensure you (or your loved one) stays hydrated.

Build drinking water into your daily routine

To stay on top of your fluid intake, put ‘drink a glass of water’ in your daily routine, e.g. first thing in the morning, after lunch, in the afternoon, before bath, with medication. This can help seniors remember to drink water throughout the day, rather than waiting until they feel thirsty and not drinking enough as a result.

Have fresh water readily available throughout your home

It’s much easier to consume fluid if it’s easy to access and within reach all the time. Make sure water is readily available throughout your home, perhaps in a small jug where you can reach if turning on taps or finding glasses is an issue.

Drink small amounts regularly rather than large amounts rarely

It’s much better to drink small amounts of water on a regular basis than trying to down a large glass less frequently. If you’re concerned about the amount of water your loved one is drinking, try offering them a little more fluid each time you offer them a drink.

Remember that coffee, tea and alcohol dehydrates the body

If dehydration is an issue, it’s best to drink alcohol, tea and coffee in moderate amounts, to ensure your body stays well hydrated. If you do consume these drinks, remember to counteract their effects by drinking plenty of extra water.

Make water appealing to drink

There are plenty of ways to make water more palatable to drink, such as offering fruit teas, adding a slice of lemon, mint leaves or berries, ortrying carbonated water. Homemade fruit ice blocks are also a lovely treat on a hot day.

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables

Food can be another source of hydration, as water is found in many fruits and vegetables. High fluid foods like jelly, cucumber sticks, a bowl of fruit salad, soup in cooler weather, broth or healthy smoothies can also be a good option if it’s hard to encourage your loved one to drink plain water.

Offer water at room temperature

If dehydration is an issue, it’s best to drink or offer either warm or room temperature water. This is because chilled water is not only hard to drink in high volumes, but also contracts the stomach and makes digestion harder.

If in doubt, seek professional help

If you are struggling to drink (or to get your loved one to drink) and are noticing the symptoms of dehydration, don’t hesitate to seek help – the sooner the better. Some medications can also cause dehydration. If you suspect this may be the case, speak to your GP or your loved one’s doctor.

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Happy Friday HC fam! Earlier this week one of our NSW Relationship Managers Zoe attended a unique networking event hosted by Lift Off El with an out-of-this-world space theme. Events like these are an invaluable way for Home Caring to connect with other industry providers and allied health professionals, expanding our reach and building meaningful partnerships within the community. Through these connections we create a more integrated environment where everyone plays a role in supporting each other and elevating the quality of care.

At Home Caring we’re constantly working on initiatives that foster a connected community. By joining forces with organisations and healthcare providers, we not only increase our brand’s visibility but strengthen our commitment to a truly inclusive care network. Together we’re building a supportive landscape where collaboration is key and everyone involved can contribute to a thriving, compassionate community 🩵

Happy Friday HC fam! Earlier this week one of our NSW Relationship Managers Zoe attended a unique networking event hosted by Lift Off El with an out-of-this-world space theme. Events like these are an invaluable way for Home Caring to connect with other industry providers and allied health professionals, expanding our reach and building meaningful partnerships within the community. Through these connections we create a more integrated environment where everyone plays a role in supporting each other and elevating the quality of care.

At Home Caring we’re constantly working on initiatives that foster a connected community. By joining forces with organisations and healthcare providers, we not only increase our brand’s visibility but strengthen our commitment to a truly inclusive care network. Together we’re building a supportive landscape where collaboration is key and everyone involved can contribute to a thriving, compassionate community 🩵
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Here at Home Caring we believe that the strength of our team lies in the well-being of each individual. We know that support care work can be both rewarding as well as challenging and we’re committed to creating a supportive environment that uplifts every staff member. By fostering a sense of connection through regular team bonding exercises, we’re building more than just a team – we’re building a community that stands together. These moments of laughter, camaraderie and support remind us that no one has to go it alone, strengthening each member’s commitment to our shared mission.

Caring for others starts with caring for ourselves and Home Caring is dedicated to ensuring our team feels valued and supported. We know that prioritising mental health is key to sustainable careers, so we actively nurture an environment where team members feel empowered and appreciated. These bonding experiences not only enrich our work culture but also help prevent the isolation that can sometimes accompany support care roles. By putting our staff’s well-being first, we’re able to provide the very best care to our clients – together, as a resilient, united team 🩵 

#teamworkmakesthedreamwork #homecaringaustralia

Here at Home Caring we believe that the strength of our team lies in the well-being of each individual. We know that support care work can be both rewarding as well as challenging and we’re committed to creating a supportive environment that uplifts every staff member. By fostering a sense of connection through regular team bonding exercises, we’re building more than just a team – we’re building a community that stands together. These moments of laughter, camaraderie and support remind us that no one has to go it alone, strengthening each member’s commitment to our shared mission.

Caring for others starts with caring for ourselves and Home Caring is dedicated to ensuring our team feels valued and supported. We know that prioritising mental health is key to sustainable careers, so we actively nurture an environment where team members feel empowered and appreciated. These bonding experiences not only enrich our work culture but also help prevent the isolation that can sometimes accompany support care roles. By putting our staff’s well-being first, we’re able to provide the very best care to our clients – together, as a resilient, united team 🩵

#teamworkmakesthedreamwork #homecaringaustralia
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Happy Friday HC fam! 🎉

Recently we had the pleasure of hosting a fantastic networking event at our SIL home in Liverpool for like minded providers and their teams. The open and heartfelt conversations made it truly special reminding us of the genuine connections that bring our community together.

Our Liverpool SIL home embodies the essence of what we strive for—calm, warmth, and a space that feels like home. A huge thank you to Sharmila our Home caring Liverpool director for hosting and to Karen Lorenzon from @konnect_fest our beloved “Pink-Haired Lady,” for her amazing collaboration. We’re incredibly grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.

Here’s to more meaningful gatherings and connections ahead! 🩵

Happy Friday HC fam! 🎉

Recently we had the pleasure of hosting a fantastic networking event at our SIL home in Liverpool for like minded providers and their teams. The open and heartfelt conversations made it truly special reminding us of the genuine connections that bring our community together.

Our Liverpool SIL home embodies the essence of what we strive for—calm, warmth, and a space that feels like home. A huge thank you to Sharmila our Home caring Liverpool director for hosting and to Karen Lorenzon from @konnect_fest our beloved “Pink-Haired Lady,” for her amazing collaboration. We’re incredibly grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.

Here’s to more meaningful gatherings and connections ahead! 🩵
... See MoreSee Less

Last Friday our Home Caring Campbelltown team enjoyed a memorable day at the zoo with even the rain holding off for us! Our cherished clients joined us for a day packed with smiles, laughter and the simple joy of being together. From the moment we arrived there was a buzz of excitement as we explored the sights, enjoyed the animals and soaked up the sunshine. It was one of those days you look back on and remember fondly, where every moment felt special and full of connection.

These outings are what we here at Home Caring do best-creating memories and sharing experiences that add quality to life. Were your trusted locals taking you beyond the everyday, bringing a sense of adventure and crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether its a day at the zoo or simply a stroll in the park were here to make each day brighter, building connections and making every moment count for our clients 🩵

#welovewecare

Last Friday our Home Caring Campbelltown team enjoyed a memorable day at the zoo with even the rain holding off for us! Our cherished clients joined us for a day packed with smiles, laughter and the simple joy of being together. From the moment we arrived there was a buzz of excitement as we explored the sights, enjoyed the animals and soaked up the sunshine. It was one of those days you look back on and remember fondly, where every moment felt special and full of connection.

These outings are what we here at Home Caring do best-creating memories and sharing experiences that add quality to life. We're your trusted locals taking you beyond the everyday, bringing a sense of adventure and crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether it's a day at the zoo or simply a stroll in the park we're here to make each day brighter, building connections and making every moment count for our clients 🩵

#welovewecare
... See MoreSee Less

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