In seniors, it’s particularly important to stay hydrated in order to keep your mind and body functioning as well as possible. Here are a few reasons staying hydrated is crucial for your health:
- Reduce thirst — As you get older, you may start to lose your sense of thirst, making it much easier to get dehydrated without knowing it. Keeping water nearby can help ensure you stay hydrated, even when you may not feel thirsty.
- Maintain metabolism — Younger adults are able to regulate water balance within their bodies, while older adults may need to stay on top of their water intake in order to keep their metabolism in check.
- Reinforce brain function — Since your brain is mostly made of water, and seniors’ mental processes tend to slow with age, staying hydrated can help ensure your brain is functioning as best as possible.
- Improve digestion — If you begin to experience constipation or digestive discomfort as you age, incorporating more water into your daily routine may help!
- Protect your kidneys — Seniors are more susceptible to kidney disease and disfunction. You can help your kidneys do their job by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Promote urinary health — It’s not uncommon for seniors to experience urinary incontinence. While you may be tempted to lessen your water intake, it can actually make the problem worse and cause infection. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, even when you aren’t thirsty.