Tips to Beat Winter Dehydration for Seniors
Winter months are when cold, dry air outside and warm, dry air inside can wreak havoc on seniors’ efforts to stay hydrated. Shorter days also mean that seniors might drink less water and eat fewer meals and snacks. All of this can lead to dehydration, which reduces energy levels, takes a toll on the immune system, and can leave seniors feeling sluggish. Home care providers can help families try out some of these tips for beating winter hydration for seniors.
Home Care Berkeley Heights NJ – Tips to Beat Winter Dehydration for Seniors
Warm Fluids Are Soothing
In colder weather, it’s soothing to drink warm fluids. The bonus is that they’re also very hydrating. Some warm fluids to consider include herbal teas, broth-based soups, or even just warm water with a squeeze of lemon. Reminders during the day help aging adults stay hydrated and stick to their routines.
Hydrating Foods Can Be the Easiest
One of the easiest ways for seniors who don’t like water to stay hydrated is through eating hydrating foods. Lots of foods have a high water content, like melons, berries, and tomatoes. But lots of foods that people enjoy during winter weather can also offer a lot of hydration, like stews and casseroles that include hydrating foods. Home care providers can help family caregivers plan meals that help hydrate seniors.
Too Much Caffeine and Alcohol Can Be a Problem
Too much of anything can be a problem for aging adults, and that’s especially true with things like alcohol and caffeine. Both of these ingredients can have dehydrating effects, particularly if seniors are not supplementing with a lot of water either caffeine or alcohol. Seniors who love drinking coffee all day long might want to make a switch after the first couple of cups to something similar but without a high caffeine count. Herbal tea can offer similar flavors without dehydrating seniors.
Winter Superfoods Are Hydrating
Winter superfoods like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are rich in minerals and vitamins, but they’re also hydrating. Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and cabbage also contain lots of nutrients and water. Whole grains like oats, barley, and quinoa boost energy levels and contain a lot of fiber. They also offer plenty of hydration.
A Balanced Diet Does So Much
Comfort foods are natural for colder months, but those comfort foods are better for seniors when they offer a balance of essential nutrients. Including plenty of protein, healthy fats, and a good mix of vegetables can support the immune system while maintaining overall health. Home care providers can help family caregivers plan balanced meals and snacks. They can also help with preparing those meals, and stocking up freezers and fridges so these healthy options are easy for seniors to grab and eat.
Maintain Activity Levels
Physical activity helps seniors stay healthy, too. In colder weather, seniors might need to move their exercises inside and prioritize hydration before and after exercising. Walking inside with YouTube videos or on a treadmill helps seniors keep moving while reducing the risk of injury.
Staying hydrated during colder weather keeps seniors healthier and energized. It’s just as important during winter as it is throughout the rest of the year and home care providers can help seniors use some of these tips in their hydration routines to stay comfortable and properly hydrated.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care Services in Berkeley Heights NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.
Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
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