Senior Care Leader Neighborly Home Care Highlights Importance of Proper Hydration for Seniors

The latest studies show that around the age of 45, the aging process begins to impact our body significantly. Around this age, the body becomes less efficient and starts to show the signs of aging. One of the leading causes of negative health impacts as we age is dehydration. Optimal hydration is critical to ensuring strong health. In this latest article, senior care specialists Neighborly Home Care will explain the links between optimal hydration and optimal health in seniors.

Facts About Seniors and Hydration

Seniors are Less Likely to Feel the Sensation of Thirst

Due to their body’s slower response to the sensation of thirst, seniors may not realize that they are dehydrated. In younger people, the body sends signals to the brain that hydration is required. Without this same mechanism, many seniors can begin to suffer from dehydration. This is part of the reason it is imperative that loved ones work with their senior relatives to provide them water on a regular basis.

Drinking Water Regularly Supports Kidney Function

Our kidneys often lose part of their function as we age. The latest data shows that between the ages of 30 and 80, the average person loses 20-25% of their renal mass. Regular water intake can help mitigate these changes and ensure that seniors protect their kidneys over the long-term.

Water Can Help Support Brain Function

While water cannot prevent many of the cognitive changes that take place in the senior’s brain, it can help to hydrate the cells within the brain, supporting strong brain function. Seniors with dehydration may suffer bouts of confusion and other mental issues, and senior care experts recommend that seniors consume water regularly throughout the day to protect against these types of on-going heath challenges.

Drinking Water Can Prevent Intestinal Discomfort

Seniors often have problems with constipation and other bowel-related conditions. Reduced fluid intake is one of the leading causes of this type of issue. By simply taking in more water, seniors can improve the function of their bowels and ensure they are able to enjoy their day-to-day activities without inconvenient and uncomfortable bowel problems.

Fear of Incontinence Can Lead Seniors to Limit Water Consumption

Seniors should be educated about the many techniques that can help eliminate incontinence challenges. Studies show that some seniors choose to limit their water consumption due to incontinence issues. However, this lack of water can lead to further bladder health concerns over time, and could exacerbate an existing incontinence problem.

Families can help their senior relatives understand the importance that optimal water consumption has in their day-to-day lives. To learn more, contact the trusted senior care leaders at Neighborly Home Care directly at 610-658-5822 or visit their business website at https://www.neighborlyhomecare.com.