Aging into older adulthood, people acquire a decreased thirst sensation. Meaning the amount of water they desire, is less than the amount of water they require to be hydrated. Being hydrated is a temporary state, staying hydrated takes a greater level of watchfulness. This watchfulness may become diminished as one graduates into older adulthood. Coming with it a slew of other complications ranging from medication side effects to lack physical mobility.
Symptoms of dehydration include:
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Dry skin
- Dizziness
- Decreased urine output
- Urine of a darker yellow than normal
Factors that may contribute to additional fluid loss:
- Diabetes
- Diarrhea and Vomiting
- Limited access to clean drinking water
- Infections
- Drinking large volumes of caffeinated beverages
- Decreased electrolyte intake
Preventing dehydration from happening in the first place is paramount healthy living! It will be greatly beneficial to anyone who knows what to look out for along with the knowing factors that perpetuate dehydrating.
The health benefits of being hydrated
- Keeps our kidneys strong
- Reduces the likelihood urinary tract infections
- Cleanses our bodies of toxins
- Better skin elasticity
- Increase muscle Efficiency
- Allows our bodies to maintain proper thermoregulation
Dehydration can have a negative effect on our bodies in many ways, knowing what to look out for is the second step of the problem. The first step should be primary prevention, by having a diet properly maintains fluid I/O and is rich in electrolytes.