Preventive Strategies for Caregivers and Individuals
Your provider can help you decide on an appropriate daily fluid goal. Once you have it, you can follow these tips to hit that mark.
Make Hydration a Routine
Include drinking fluids in consistent parts of your day, says Dr. Wint. For example, take a few sips every time you:
- Go to the bathroom
- Watch a favorite TV show
- Eat a meal
- Get out of your chair
- Take medications
“Set alarms if you have to,” says Wint. If you attach drinking water to regular daily activities, you may find it easier to get the fluid you need each day.
Try Other Drinks
Try different flavors in your fluids until you find one that you really like, says Wint. The pleasure of drinking something that tastes good can prompt you to drink even more than thirst and simply remembering to do it, Wint adds.
If water doesn’t excite you, you can try:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Chocolate milk
- Hot chocolate
- No-sugar-added fruit juice
- Smoothies
- Broth
It’s also important to ask your provider about any restrictions in fluids. For example, if you have diabetes, you may need to limit fruit juice.
Keep Fluids Visible
Keep fluids nearby and easy to see, says Bateman. Try using a clear glass so you can see the fluid inside, or use bright, colorful cups to grab your attention. Place drinks all over your living space, so wherever you go, you get a visual reminder to hydrate.
Eat Water-Rich Foods
If drinking doesn’t sound great to you, you have other options. “Foods that contain a lot of water can be a good way to increase hydration,” says Bateman, who recommends eating fluid-rich foods like popsicles, fruits, and vegetables.
Other foods high in fluid content include:
- Soup
- Yogurt
- Cucumber
- Lettuce
- Celery
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
You can also try hydrating snacks like Jelly Drops, which contain 95 percent water.
Use Helpful Tools
If you have trouble holding onto a cup, you can try a few other options. Some people like weighted mugs, and others prefer them lighter. You can also try different shapes and “no-spill” options.
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