The sensation of thirst declines with age. Even young children who play outdoors in the heat are often reluctant to stop playing and drink water.
In seniors, illness and medications may further reduce thirst or increase urine production. Older adults are at increased risk of experiencing heatstroke or urinary tract infections.
I understand why people may not want to drink water. Besides possibly making extra trips to the bathroom, it is boring, tasteless and fills you up. There are many options to flavoring water from squeezing lemon or limes into a glass or water jar, to adding other assorted fruits such as apples, pears, oranges, etc. It just takes a few minutes to prepare.
Preventing dehydration is important. Whether you are outdoors or inside a cooled room, it can still happen. You lose fluids through perspiration and breathing, even if you are not exercising, your core temperature may raise and result in heatstroke. Early signs of dehydration include dark yellow urine and dry skin. In severe cases, symptoms can progress to dizziness, fainting, and even seizures. Treatment in extreme cases can also affect the heart and kidney function. Limit your prolonged activities if you feel any symptoms mentioned above. Your stamina will prevail.
To reduce your risk, sip water throughout the day rather than wait until you feel thirsty. It’s also smart to drink a full glass of water each time you take medications (if recommended). You can hydrate with foods, too, such as soup, smoothies, and produce with high water content, like celery and watermelon.
In the meantime, keep moving and exercising your body, especially if you have stiff joints from arthritis, sit too long or feel stiff or de-conditioned. Strengthening, stretching and self-myofascial practice can safely help discomfort.
If you would like more information about specific programs to get you started and feeling better about your body, plan to be more active, improve your balance so you remain vertical and confident, or ways to reduce the pain associated with arthritis or injury, contact us. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram, check out our website at LoriMichielFitness.com for other important fitness information, email us or simply call us at 818-620-1442 for a consultation.