Hydration for Seniors is Just as Important in the Cooler Weather as it is in the Summer
It can be challenging to ensure that you or your loved one is staying hydrated in the winter. A common belief is that people become dehydrated primarily in the summer. However, the winter months affect our bodies just as much, if not more so. We also tend to drink less water once the colder months hit, because we simply don’t feel as thirsty. The surrounding cold air dries out our skin and hair and may affect our nasal passages, causing nosebleeds. Seniors may find that they still sweat in winter, but the cold air evaporates sweat fast. So, you may not even realize that you have been sweating or suffering from mild dehydration.
How Dry Air Affects Your Body
Humidity levels naturally drop during cold weather months. Ideal levels of humidity during the winter should stay around 45%. When they fall, you may notice the following:
Your Nasal Passages Become Uncomfortable: You might notice that your nose has become itchy and irritated. You might see nosebleeds, too.
Your Skin Becomes Dry: It may become itchy, flaky, and tight around joints. It might even crack or chap. If you have eczema and acne, you may notice it flare up.
Your Eyes Will Feel Much Drier: You might even find yourself rubbing your eyes more.
Suggestions to Keep Well Hydrated
To avoid dehydration, it is imperative to drink plenty of fluids, primarily water, and eat moisture-rich foods. You can easily add more water to your diet in a variety of ways, such as:
Drink Water: The most important tip is to drink enough water! You may schedule your water intake, such as drinking as soon as you get up, after each meal, and before and after exercising. This may mean that you keep a refillable bottle with you at all times.
Eat Food with High Water Content: Sometimes, you don’t feel like drinking water. That is when water-dense foods are useful. Eating foods like cucumbers, celery, tomatoes, watermelon, bell peppers, grapes, cantaloupe, oranges, blueberries, and apples will taste yummy and keep you hydrated.
Drink Broth: You may want warm drinks and food in the winter. Broth can do that for you. It will warm and hydrate you at the same time.
Remember to Use Moisturizer: Besides eating and drinking your water, add moisture to your skin through lotions and moisturizers. You get bonus points when you choose a lightweight SPF!
Seniors who live alone may struggle more than those living in a skilled nursing facility. If you are ready to take your health into your hands, why not make the move today and find a senior living option that works for you? The staff at Mitchell Hollingsworth understands what it takes to ensure that you have everything you need. Contact us today to learn more about all that we have to offer!
