It might sound surprising, but it’s not a joke.
People over 60 gradually stop feeling thirsty, so they drink less water.
As a result, when no one is around to remind them, they quickly become dehydrated.
Why is dehydration dangerous?
Dehydration is a serious condition that affects the entire body.
If dehydration occurs, it can lead to:-
✅ Sudden mental confusion
✅ Low blood pressure
✅ Increased heart rate
✅ Angina (chest pain)
✅ Coma
✅ Even death
This habit of forgetting to drink starts at age 60.
At this stage, the body’s water content is already below 50%.
Most elderly people have low water levels. This is part of the natural aging process.
However, this leads to more complications. Even when dehydrated, they don’t feel thirsty because the brain’s internal balance system does not function properly.
Conclusion:-
People over 60 are easily prone to dehydration.
Not just because they have less water in their bodies, but because they don’t realize they are dehydrated.
Even, if they appear healthy, dehydration slows down the body’s chemical and physiological functions, affecting their entire body.
Two Important Warnings:-
1️⃣ Encourage elderly people to drink fluids regularly.
Fluids include:-
✅ Water
✅ Fruit juices
✅ Tea
✅ Coconut water
✅ Soups
✅ Water-rich fruits (watermelon, muskmelon, peach, pineapple, orange, and tangerine)
Most importantly, drink some fluids every two hours.
2️⃣ For family members:-
✅ Ensure that elderly people drink fluids frequently.
✅ If you notice that they refuse to drink fluids and show signs of irritability, breathlessness, or lack of focus, these are definite signs of dehydration.
Now, do you realize how important it is for elderly people to drink water?
✅ Help your friends and family stay healthy and happy.
This is valuable advice for senior citizens!
Dr. Madhuri Danekar