Many people may not know that the sense of thirst changes as you age. As in younger years, the body’s demand for water reduces as you age. Not drinking sufficient water, may put an individual in danger of dehydration. Young or old, the body still requires sufficient fluids to function.
Anne Vanderbilt, the geriatric clinical nurse specialist, informs individuals age 65 or older don’t drink enough liquids. This issue should be realized and addressed by individuals in this age group.
Vanderbilt says as the body composition changes for older adults resulting in a greater risk of dehydration. Lower kidney function can affect fluid levels, as 65 or older age groups have a lower level of water in their bodies than children or younger adults, and a common cause of hospitalization for the age group.
She said, symptoms of dehydration often go unrecognized in older adults, contributing to various mental conditions, natural effects of aging, and mediation.
Mental, emotional, and physical effects may be observed due to dehydration. Faced with dwindling body fluid levels, blood vessels throughout your body and brain constrict, leading to physical signs of dehydration, that may include headache, muscle cramps, dizziness, fatigue, and flushed skin. Individuals who are dehydrated may appear confused, anxious and cranky. The effects may appear worse in individuals with dementia. Is estimated that in the age category of 85 and above, 50% experience dementia.
To prevent dehydration is simple enough, “consume more fluids”. The recommendation of 8 glasses per day is popular as it is a very easy way to remember the body’s requirement, Vanderbilt explains. However, this quantity depends on an individual’s tolerance level, as in the level of sweat in a hot day.
It is not necessary that hydration requires drinking clear water, mixing it up a bit to make hydration interesting is a good method to achieve the required levels. Dropping a slice of fruit, such as lemon, strawberries, and milk or milk alternatives is commonly consumed rather than a boring glass of water.
The daily requirement doesn’t have to come from a glass. Food high in water content will help in the hydration process. Foods such as cucumber, celery, and watermelon are high in water content.
