The Importance of Hydration for Older People

The importance of hydration

Keeping your body hydrated, and drinking enough water each day is essential to everyday life. Without it the body cannot survive longer than a few days. 

Fluid’s role in the body is vital, assisting the body perform many vital functions, including: 

• Circulating the blood throughout the body
• Carrying nutrients and oxygen to the cells
• Regulating the temperature of the body
• Lubricating the joints 
• Assisting digestion and food absorption 
• Flushing toxins and waste from the body
• Preventing infection
• Protecting the tissues and organs from shock and damage

As well as supporting the overall sleep quality, cognition, and mood of the individual. 

How much fluid is needed?

There are a number of ways to measure the required daily fluid intake. The most well-known measurement from the NH&MRC suggests 10 cups per day for men and 8 cups per day for women. 

However, according to the Joanna Briggs Institute, the daily fluid intake can be measured in the following ways: 

• 30mL / kg body weight
• 1mL fluid / calorie consumed
• 100mL / kg for the first 10kg + 50mL / kg for the next 10kg + 15mL / kg for the remainder of the weight

These measurements can sometimes be very high for older people, which is why it is always recommended to take in the considerations of the individual and seek the advice of an Accredited Practising Dietitian. 

Which fluids are best? 

While any fluid (or foods with a high fluid content) can assist in keeping the body hydrated, water is the recommended drink of choice. 

In an aged care environment, however, other considerations need to be taken into account. For instance, to ensure all nutrition requirements are being met, juices, milk, milkshakes, and commercial supplements may be preferred, as they can provide residents with excellent nourishment at the same time.  In addition, sports drinks, cordial or soft drinks might also provide valuable kilojoules for those underweight or suffering from malnutrition. 

For this reason, there are no ‘best’ fluids. While residents need to remain hydrated to stay healthy, the way this is achieved is entirely dependent on their dietary needs. 

How to increase fluid intake?

There are a number of ways to increase the amount of water your residents are drinking, including: 

• Having a jug of water and glasses on the table at mealtimes
• Keep a jug of chilled water in the fridge during the hot weather
• Add flavour to the water, this could be cordial but also could be fruit (fresh or frozen), like watermelon, strawberry, cucumber, or orange slices, or adding mint leaves or a squeeze of lemon or lime
• Use familiar cups or mugs
• Offer fluids at every meal or snack
• Offer a wide variety of drink options
• Offer the preferred fluids of choice
• Offer high water content snacks and foods like ice blocks, jellies, and ice cream