3 Keys to Stay Hydrated

Exercising. Socializing. Eating well.

All keys to aging right.

But if you’ve been watching or reading the news lately, you know there’s something else you should add: understanding how to survive the new norm of deadly-hot, global temperatures.

As triple-digit heat becomes the new norm, scientists warn it’s never been more important to stay hydrated.

The Silent Killer

In Europe last year, 62,000 people died from heat-related illness, with many other victims under-counted.

Each year in the US, heat kills more people than any other weather-related event. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that yearly 700 people die, 70,000 are rushed to the ER and 9,000 are hospitalized.

Are You Most At Risk?

Our AgeRight Care at Home clinical staff knows that people over 60 are most in danger of heat-related complications. As we age, we lose muscle mass, meaning we have less water in our bodies and a diminished sense of thirst –– the first warning of dehydration.

So our clinicians share water-wise tips with all of our clients, whether it’s our AgeRight Home Health patients recovering from surgery or serious illness, or our AgeRight Home Care patients who just need a little extra assistance around their homes.

To keep you safe, here are 3 keys to stay hydrated!

#1 Know The Forecast & How To Prepare

Yes, we all joke they’re not always right, but it’s smart to listen to your local meteorologist. Pay attention to the terms, “heat advisory” and “heat warning.” These are your signals to prepare.

Scientists are so alarmed about the new norm of scorching temperatures they’ve created some fascinating websites for you to use.

• gov, for timely and science-based information to understand and reduce the health risks of extreme heat.
• Heat and Health Tracker, information on the NOAA-supported Urban Heat Island Mapping Campaign.
• gov to see if your area is at risk of an excessive heat event.

#2 Know The Warning Symptoms

Make sure you know the side effects of all your medications. Certain medications and chronic conditions can make it difficult to detect dehydration because they mimic the same symptoms. For example, dry mouth is an early sign of dehydration, but it’s also a side effect of diuretics. Among the other warning signs of dehydration are:

• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid heart rate
• Decreased urination
• Dark urine
• Dizziness and mood swings

#3 Know How Much Water To Drink

Seniors, especially those on medications, should always ask their physicians about how much water to drink daily. A general rule is to use the 8 x 8 rule: drink eight, eight-ounce glasses of water a day. This is equal to two liters or a half a gallon of water. Be proactive and make it a habit.

Invest in a water bottle you enjoy holding and using and even a “smart” water bottle that helps you track your daily intake.

Let’s raise that glass of H2O and toast –– to aging right!