Home Care Services in Carmel, IN – Don’t Overlook the Impact of Dry Air on Seniors’ Hydration Level in Winter
During the summer months the topic of staying hydrated tends to be a common mantra. This is especially true for people who work outside, go for jogs down the street, or spend any amount of time sweating it out. For seniors who rely on home care services, it is also important to stay hydrated during the summer because increased temperatures will place more pressure on the body to try and keep cool and that often results in sweating.
Even though we may not notice the sweat beading on our body, the skin is usually kept cool through moisture that rises to the surface of the body. Not keeping hydrated can have negative impacts on the mind and body. So it is a good idea to remain hydrated whenever the temperature is warm outside.
What about during the winter?
The topic of hydration is usually dropped during wintertime because most people spend an increased amount of time indoors. For those who go to a gym or have a home gym and workout, they are likely going to drink a lot more water when they are working out. For elderly individuals who may rely on home care services, if they are working out with the in home care service provider, or even a physical therapist, they are likely encouraged to drink more water to stay hydrated during these activities.
Yet it is also essential to remain hydrated throughout the day because during the winter months, when the heating system is on, it is likely drawing more moisture out of the air. As a result, it is also going to be drawing more moisture out of our bodies.
The more moisture that is lost because of lower humidity levels inside the house, the more important it is to maintain hydration.
Drinking coffee, soda, and alcoholic beverages are not going to be helpful at keeping hydrated. These beverages contain caffeine or alcohol that are commonly associated with a loss of hydration. As a result, it’s important for any in home care service provider to encourage the patient in their care to drink more water throughout the day. Drinking more water is the best way to maintain proper hydration.
Just because the temperature outside is cold and we are not sweating as profusely as we might during the summer, that doesn’t mean we are getting proper hydration. For elderly individuals, especially those who may be taking certain prescription medications, it is essential to maintain proper hydration. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (8 ounces each) should be the goal.
Follow Us!