Staying Hydrated: Why it Matters More as We Get Older
Published: 26/01/2026
Hydration Tips for Seniors in Salisbury, Andover & Surrounding Villages
At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we understand that staying hydrated is a key part of healthy ageing. Many older adults are more vulnerable to dehydration, especially during warmer months or when living with health conditions that affect appetite or memory.
Whether you live independently in the city, with family in nearby villages like Wilton or Amesbury, or receive homecare support from our team, here’s what you need to know about hydration as you age, and also how to stay on top of it every day.
Why Older Adults Are More Prone to Dehydration
Age-related changes in the body can impact hydration in serveral ways:
- Reduced sense of thirst - Seniors may not feel thirsty, even when their body needs fluids
- Medication side effects - Diuretics and certain prescriptions can increase fluid loss
- Mobility challenges - Individuals may avoid drinking to limit trips to the toilet
- Memory issues - Dementia or mild cognitive impairment may result in forgetting to drink
Why Staying Hydrated Is So Important
Water plays a vital role in nearly every system in the body. Proper hydration supports:
- Energy and concentration
- Digestive and kidney function
- Regulation of body temperature
- Joint and skin health
- Prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and constipation
- Reduced risk of confusion and falls
Even mild dehydration in older adults can lead to hospital admissions or impact recovery from illness.
Common Signs of Dehydration in Seniors
Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- Dry mouth or cracked lips
- Headaches or dizziness
- Confusion or agitation
- Dark urine or reduced urination
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness or lethagy
If you're noticing these symptoms, it may be time to increase fluids or seek care support.
Easy Ways to Stay Hydrated in Later Life
Here are practical tips we share with our Clients and families across Salisbury and Andover:
1. Keep drinks visible and within reach
Place a water bottle or glass near favourite chairs, the bed or kitchen table.
2. Offer a variety of fluids
Water is ideal, but herbal teas, milk, squash, broths and soups all help increase hydration.
3. Make it routine
Drink after meals or schedule regular tea breaks in your day.
4. Choose hydrating snacks
Foods like watermelon, cucumber, jelly, yoghurt and fruit help boost water intake.
5. Use prompts or reminders
Alarms, hydration charts, or app-based nudges can gently encourage regular sips.
6. Use Jelly Drops
Jelly Drops boost hydration designed specifically for the elderly. They are sugar-free treats made from 95% water with electrolytes and B vitamins.
How Right at Home Salisbury & Andover Can Help
Our trained Care Assistants support Clients across Salisbury, Andover and surrounding villages with day-to-day hydration in ways that are thoughtful and personalised:
- Offering regular drinks throughout the day
- Preparing easy-to-eat hydrating meals and snacks
- Monitoring for early signs of dehydration
- Supporting memory-impaired Clients to stay on routine
- Encouraging safe, social hydration habits (e.g., sharing a tea break)
We make hydration part of a bigger picture of compassionate, person-centred care.
Concerned About Hydration or Wellbeing?
If someone you love may be struggling to stay hydrated or manage daily routines, we’re here to help.
Call us on 01722435615 and let's chat about how homecare in Salisbury & Andover could make a lasting difference - from hydration to companionship, mobility support, and more.
