10 Ways To Get Your Senior Parent To Drink More Water
Home care can help seniors aging in place stay hydrated and healthy.
Seniors are at a greater risk of dehydration than other age groups. As seniors age, they naturally lose more water, which can cause dehydration. Factors like medication side effects, health conditions, living in homes with dry air, and not getting enough water from the foods they eat also contribute to dehydration.
If your mom or dad isn’t drinking enough water, home care providers can help. A home care provider who is with your mom or dad throughout the day can encourage them to drink water regularly. They can also help cook meals that contain water-filled leafy grains and other hydrating foods.
A home care provider can help you use these 10 tips to get your mom or dad to drink more water and stay hydrated:
1. Keep Water Accessible
Make sure your mom or dad always has water nearby. Place a water bottle or glass in areas where they spend the most time, like next to their favorite chair, bed, or TV.
Use a bottle with a straw or easy-to-hold handle for convenience. Remember that your mom or dad may have trouble holding a regular water glass. An insulated water cup with large handles may be easier for them to hold.
2. Add Flavor to Water
Sometimes, plain water can be boring. Try adding a slice of lemon, lime, cucumber, or fresh mint. You can also add a splash of juice for a hint of flavor.
Avoid water flavoring drops or powders because they can have a lot of sugar and preservatives in them. It’s best to use natural flavorings like fruit. You can get an infusion pitcher and use that to make delicious fresh fruit water.
3. Set a Drinking Schedule
A home care provider can help your mom or dad develop a routine for drinking water. They can encourage them to have a glass of water with every meal and snack and set reminders to drink at least once every hour.
4. Stock Up On Hydrating Foods
Many fruits and vegetables have high water content. Foods like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries can help your senior parent stay hydrated. Serve a bowl of cut-up fruits or veggies as a snack to increase water intake without drinking.
5. Make it a Habit in the Morning
Encourage your parent to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. This can help start their day hydrated. Keep a glass of water by their bed, so it’s easy to grab. Make it part of their morning routine, just like brushing their teeth.
6. Track Water Intake
Ask your mom or dad’s home care provider to help them track how much water they drink each day. You can use a simple chart or download an app. Tracking can help them stay aware of their water intake and set goals. Use a fun or colorful chart to make it more engaging.
7. Use a Special Cup
Find a water bottle or cup that your parent likes. Maybe it’s a cup with a fun design, or maybe it’s an insulated bottle that keeps water cold. Having a favorite cup can make drinking more enjoyable. Buy a cup with measurements so it’s easy to see how much water they’ve had.
8. Encourage Small Sips Throughout the Day
Your senior parent doesn’t have to drink large amounts all at once. Encourage them to take small sips regularly throughout the day. This can make drinking water feel less overwhelming. Remind them to take a sip every time they see their water bottle or glass.
9. Make Water a Social Activity
Sometimes, it’s easier to drink water when you’re doing it with someone else. Join your mom or dad for a glass of water and make it a bonding moment. You can also encourage them to drink water while talking on the phone or watching TV. You can suggest they drink water while eating meals with family or friends to make it part of their routine.
10. Serve Water at the Right Temperature
Some people prefer cold water, while others prefer room temperature. Ask your parent what they prefer and serve water the way they like it. This small adjustment can make a big difference in how much they drink. Keep water chilled in the fridge or offer it with ice if they like it cold.
If they prefer it room temperature, fill a pitcher or jug with water and let it sit on the counter so there is always water available for them.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Glenview, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 948-0860. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette, and the surrounding areas.
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