Did you know adults 55+ are more likely to drink half the recommend 8 cups or more of water/day compared to younger adults?

Older adults are at an increased risk for dehydration, in part because they naturally have a lower water volume. Even minor illnesses can result in dehydration.

By raising awareness of good hydration, active aging professionals can avoid the negative effects of dehydration.

Good nutrition goes hand in hand with hydration, we can get both water and electrolytes from food. Food provides about 20% of the fluid in our bodies. Not getting enough fluid or electrolytes can cause dehydration. 

THE IMPORTANT ROLES OF WATER

• Protects and cushions vital organs
• Moistens tissues such as those in the mouth, eyes, and nose
• Carries nutrients and oxygen throughout the body
• Prevents constipation
• Regulates body temperature
• Moistens air for breathing
• Maintains blood volume and blood pressure
• Lubricates and cushions joints and bones
• Helps kidneys remove waster; prevents kidney stone formation
• Helps digest and absorb nutrients; helps convert food to energy

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION

• Lake of energy or feeling weak
• Dry mouth and/or chapped lips
• Feeling thirstier than normal
• Decreased urine output and/or dark urine
• Headaches, dizziness, or feeling lightheaded
• Constipation

HYDRATION TIPS

• Carry a bottle of water around with you
• Have water by your bed
• Check your urine color (it should not be dark)
• Drink a full glass of water when you take medications
• Flavor your water with fruit slices or herbs
• Drink water after going to the bathroom
• Dilute fruit juices with water
• Don’t limit water for convenience

To avoid dehydration, older adults should drink at least 8 cups of water per day. However, individual recommendations can vary. Always check with your doctor.

Your brain is the command center of your body. From your feelings to behaviors, it dictates everything you do. Just like any other muscle, it’s important to stimulate and strengthen your brain. How do you train your brain to be stronger? Below are eight common hobbies scientifically proven to boost your brain’s health!

1) SPORTS & FITNESS

Physical activity is a powerhouse when boosting your brain! Breaking a sweat can improve your ability to multitask and increase productivity. On average, employees who exercise regularly are 15% more efficient and 23% more productive!

2) COMPUTER SKILLS

Mastering new computer skills can help keep your mind sharp. Researchers found that programmers have more activity in parts of the brain that are related to learning, speaking and understanding language. 

3) YOGA & MEDITATION

Centering your chi greatly reduces stress and fights off anxiety. In a study, 60% of anxiety-prone participants showed improvement after 6-9 months of meditation. 

4) COOKING & BAKING

Whipping up a tasty meal improves your ability to multitask. Multiple studies have shown that multitasking sparks brain activity and enhances neural efficiency. 

5) MUSIC

Music exercises every part of the brain. Numerous studies have found that playing an instrument utilizes both hemispheres of the brain which strengthens brain functions and motor skills. 

6) CRAFTS

Did you know that knitting and scrapbooking actually benefit your brain? Crafting may reduce chance of developing mild cognitive impairment by 30-50% 

7) LANGUAGE

Learning a foreign language helps you stay mentally fit. Research has shown, that bilinguals show Alzheimer’s symptoms 5-6 years later than those who speak only one language. 

8) ARTS

Channeling your inner Picasso can improve your problem-solving abilities and boost memory. Doodling while listening to information can lead to a 29% increase in memory recall. 

Chances are you might already have a few of these hobbies. If so, give yourself a pat on the back and continue to sharpen your mind while doing something you enjoy. If not, it’s never too late to start something new!