Older people urged to drink more water
Drinking water helps to maintain your body temperature during hot weather
Jul 24 2012 By David Godsall
CARE bosses in Leicestershire are urging older people to drink more water, tea and soft drinks during the current warm spell, to avoid dehydration.
Leicestershire County Council raised the issue due to concerns that many older people are not drinking enough, which can lead to health problems.
David Sprason, the council’s acting deputy leader, said: “People need to drink two and a half pints of fluid per day and even more when its hot. Tap water is one of the best things you can drink its cheap and its high quality.
“Our meals on wheels teams are helping to spread this message and help older people prepare drinks. Were also encouraging carers and neighbours to keep an eye open and see if their older friends and relatives are drinking enough.”
Drinking helps to maintain your body temperature, as well as:
Maintaining mental performance and keeping you alert
Preventing falls through fainting
Preventing pressure sores
Preventing constipation
Preventing urinary tract infections
Preventing kidney and gall stones
Reducing the risk of heart disease
Helping to prevent low blood pressure
Helping to manage diabetes Older people are being encouraged to:
Have a full glass of water with any medication
Drink between meal times
Have a drink with meals
Ask their carer to leave them with a drink for the rest of the day.
