More than any other age group, seniors are especially prone to dehydration. With age, meeting hydration needs becomes more challenging because the body’s water volume naturally decreases. Water provides optimal hydration, but seniors often grow bored with its lack of flavor. Fortunately, you can flavor your aging loved one’s water to suit his or her individual tastes.
Fruit Flavor
Adding fruit is one of the simplest and most appealing ways to flavor water. Seniors often love lemon slices in their water, and lime slices are a nice variation. Fresh pineapple, mango, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, and watermelon add lively color and flavor to any water bottle.
Dark-colored berries all contain vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and may reduce cancer risk. Watermelon is rich in potassium, which can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of kidney disease. Peaches have high levels of magnesium, which aids in weight control.
You can also juice some of the fruit and combine it with water in a blender to infuse the whole drink with a vibrant hue. Juicing works best for larger fruits like watermelon and peaches. If water is still unappealing to your loved one after trying these tips, try again with sparkling water as an alternative.
Staying well hydrated is an essential component of optimal health. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elder care. Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Veggie Twists
Vegetables are ideal as water flavorings, especially during the summer months. Putting cucumber slices in water often adds enough flavor for most people, but you can include some whole blueberries or other dark berries to add sweetness. Cucumber and watermelon combine for an exceptionally flavorful pairing. Juicing a carrot or beet and mixing it with water can be a nutritious and delicious option as well.
Herbal Infusion
Water with mint is both beautiful and flavorful. Herbal teas work well during all seasons and can be served hot or iced. They come in a wide variety of flavors, including mint, rosemary, and basil, and seniors can pair them with fruits or honey for additional sweetness. With these fun and fragrant options, you’re sure to find something your loved one will enjoy.
Seniors with cognitive impairment due to dementia may need extra help remembering to drink plenty of fluids. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional Dementia Care. Ashburn families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
Spiced Water
Though unconventional, spices bring lots of flavor to water, and they have important benefits for senior health. Cinnamon aids blood sugar regulation and is one of the easiest spices to start with. Simply take a cinnamon stick, place it in a pitcher of water, and refrigerate overnight. If added sweetness is needed, cinnamon water works well with sliced pears, and you can even blend a vanilla pod with it.
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice with anti-inflammatory properties. When mixed with natural sweeteners, it makes a uniquely flavorful tea. Using a tea kettle, add one teaspoon of turmeric per four cups of boiling water. Once the water has boiled, allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Then pour the mixture through a tea strainer and into a glass. Add honey and lemon to taste.
Hydration is one of the most important aspects of senior health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional Home Care. Ashburn, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To create a customized home care plan