Keeping Seniors Hydrated during Winter

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.

The caregivers at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is an elder care agency providing quality and affordable home care services in Carmel, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.

About Julie Sullivan

Julie Sullivan is the Owner at GreatCare of Indianapolis IN.
GreatCare is a licensed, personal services agency, providing in-home care services to the Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding areas. We serve the personal health and daily care needs of seniors or individuals who prefer to stay at home, but require assistance with everyday activities, such as dressing, personal hygiene, meal preparation, laundry or errands. Our team of certified nurse aids and home health aids can provide you with personalized, in-home care services to meet your needs, including:
Daytime hourly in-home care
Temporary or post-hospital respite care
24-hour, around-the-clock home care
Morning and evening care
Overnight / Slumber care
In addition, we offer our Care Compass service, to assist in setting the course for the next stage in your loved ones life. We guide you through the currents of aging, and help you find your true north. Our licensed nurses, with experience in hospice and geriatric care, will help guide you through the complex and often sensitive journey of selecting an in-home care service, and will provide a smooth transition to a new way of life for your loved one, without the anxiety and fear.

Our current nursing and management team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the home healthcare services industry. All of our caregivers are bonded, insured and screened thoroughly, so you know you’ll be receiving the greatest care possible. That’s why we stand by our mission: to deliver the same, quality care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.
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