Dehydration is a very common health issue that seniors experience. In fact, it’s so common that experts say as many as 23% of seniors may be chronically dehydrated. It’s a challenge to get seniors to drink enough water and to skip fizzy or sugary drinks. But it’s essential for their good health.
If you are having a hard time making sure that your senior parent drinks water throughout the day because you can’t be with your senior parent all day, in-home care can help. If your senior parent has in-home care, a caregiver will be with your senior parent daily. An in-home care provider can monitor how much water your senior parent is drinking, encourage them to drink water regularly, and make sure there are enticing drinks like fruit water in the refrigerator.
Some of the ways that in-home care providers can help your senior parent stay hydrated are:
Offer Water Regularly
Many seniors don’t think about drinking water until they’re already dehydrated. A care provider can offer water regularly, even if your parent doesn’t ask for it. They can bring a glass of water with meals, during activities, or whenever they check in.
Small, frequent sips throughout the day can add up and prevent dehydration.
Use a Special Water Bottle or Cup
Sometimes, having a special cup can encourage seniors to drink more. An in-home care provider can find a water bottle or cup that is easy to hold and sip from. A clear bottle with measurement marks can help track how much water your parent is drinking. Some bottles even have reminders to drink at certain times.
If your parent prefers warm drinks, a thermos with herbal tea or warm water can be a good alternative.
Flavor the Water for Better Taste
Plain water may not always be appealing to your senior parent; many people don’t like plain water. A care provider can add slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or berries to give the water a refreshing taste. Herbal teas or lightly flavored water with no added sugar are also good options.
If your parent enjoys the taste, they may be more likely to drink throughout the day.
Serve Hydrating Foods
Not all hydration has to come from drinking water. Many fruits and vegetables have high water content and can help keep your parent hydrated. An in-home care provider can offer foods like watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, celery, and soups with a clear broth.
These foods provide fluids while also adding vitamins and nutrients to their diet.
Set Up a Drinking Schedule
A routine can help your senior parent remember to drink water regularly. An in-home care provider can set up a simple schedule, such as drinking a glass of water in the morning, one with each meal, and one in the evening. They can also set reminders or alarms to encourage their parent to take a sip.
A consistent schedule makes hydration a regular habit instead of an afterthought.
If you or an aging loved one is considering In-Home Care in Hollywood, FL, please contact the caring staff at Actify Home Care today at (954) 902-6049
Actify Home Care provides exceptional home and facility care for anyone in Broward County, including Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, Parkland, Sunrise, Plantation, Weston, Pembroke Pines, Tamarac, Coral Springs, Miramar, Florida, and surrounding areas.
We offer services all around the South Florida area. If you have questions for us or don’t see your area listed, just ask; we’d be happy to help. Contact us today!
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