Are Older Adults in Bedford Drinking Enough Water This Summer?
Are Older Adults in Bedford Drinking Enough Water This Summer?
Hydration plays a vital role in staying well during July, particularly for older adults receiving care at home in Bedford. As temperatures rise, so does the risk of dehydration, especially for those living with conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s, or limited mobility. At Home Instead Bedford, we support older people to stay safe and comfortable through personalised care that includes regular drinks, hydrating meals, and helpful routines. In this blog, we explore how to support hydration at home, highlight drinks and foods to include or avoid, and share tips to help your loved ones enjoy a healthier, safer summer.
In the sections that follow, we share practical ways to support hydration at home, including the best drinks and snacks to offer, what to limit, and how to create helpful routines. Staying well-hydrated can reduce health risks and improve comfort during the warmer months. For additional guidance, the NHS also provides helpful information on recognising and preventing dehydration.
Why Hydration Matters More in Later Life
As we age, our sense of thirst naturally declines. Some medications or medical conditions can make it harder to retain fluids, while cognitive changes might mean someone forgets to drink altogether. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, or confusion, which may increase the risk of falls or require extra care and attention.
At Home Instead Bedford, we regularly see how supporting better hydration can improve mood, cognition, mobility, and comfort. Drinking water is one small act that delivers big benefits.
Best Ways for Older Adults to Stay Hydrated
Hydration doesn’t have to mean plain water all day long. A variety of drinks and foods can help maintain fluid balance, especially when introduced into daily routines in enjoyable ways:
- Flavoured water: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to water jugs.
- Diluted fruit juice: A splash of cordial with water can be more appealing.
- Milk and milk alternatives: These offer both hydration and nutritional value.
- Herbal teas: Chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos can be gentle on the stomach.
- Soups and broths: These are ideal during mealtimes, even in warm weather.
- Hydrating snacks: Watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, jelly, and yoghurt are excellent choices.
Encourage sipping throughout the day rather than waiting for thirst. A jug by the armchair, a cup by the bedside, or regular tea breaks can help prompt consistent intake. For those with limited mobility, using a straw or easy-grip cup can make a big difference.
Watch Out: Drinks and Foods That Dehydrate
Not all fluids are created equal. Some common choices can actually contribute to dehydration, especially when consumed in large amounts:
- Caffeinated beverages (like strong tea, coffee, or energy drinks) can increase urine output.
- Alcohol has a diuretic effect and may also impair judgment about how warm or unwell someone feels.
- Salty snacks (like crisps, cured meats, or certain cheeses) can draw water out of the body.
Moderation is key. It’s not about cutting things out completely, but about balancing them with hydrating alternatives.
Foods That Support Hydration
Some everyday foods are surprisingly effective at keeping fluid levels up. Adding these to meals or snacks can help older adults in Bedford stay hydrated without even thinking about it:
- Fruits like oranges, grapes, and melons are water-rich and refreshing.
- Vegetables such as lettuce, celery, courgette, and tomatoes have high water content.
- Yoghurt and soft cheeses like cottage cheese offer a creamy, hydrating boost.
- Smoothies are ideal for those who find chewing tiring or who have smaller appetites.
Meals that combine hydration with nourishment are particularly helpful for older adults who may be managing swallowing difficulties or reduced appetites.
Keeping Cool at Home
During the hottest part of the day (usually 11am to 3pm), keeping the home environment cool is just as important as staying hydrated. Practical tips include:
- Keeping curtains or blinds drawn during peak heat
- Using fans to circulate air (placed away from direct exposure)
- Avoiding use of ovens or hobs during the warmest hours
- Moving into the coolest part of the house when possible
For those receiving care at home, our team at Home Instead Bedford ensures that hydration and temperature regulation are part of every daily routine.
Outdoor Enjoyment with Safety in Mind
Sunshine, fresh air, and movement are beneficial, but outings need planning. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Head outside early in the morning or after 6pm when it’s cooler
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and a wide-brimmed hat
- Apply SPF before leaving the house
- Carry water and sit in shaded areas when taking breaks
We encourage our clients to continue enjoying Bedford’s parks, gardens, and community events, with the right preparation and support.
Preventing Falls Through Better Hydration
When hydration is low, it can cause dizziness, affect coordination and slow reaction times, which may raise the risk of falls. Fall prevention is a key part of our summer care strategy at Home Instead Bedford. Alongside hydration, we help reduce risks by:
- Keeping walkways clear of trip hazards
- Checking mobility aids are well maintained
- Ensuring lighting is bright and accessible
- Supporting safe movement during hot weather, when fatigue may set in sooner
Regular, gentle movement such as seated exercises or short walks also helps maintain balance and strength.
Community Support in Bedford
Bedford Borough Council and organisations like Age UK Bedfordshire and Community Voluntary Service provide excellent local initiatives to promote hydration, activity, and connection. Programmes such as Live Longer Better offer inclusive exercise sessions like chair yoga, gentle stretching, and table tennis—perfect for older adults looking to stay active in a safe, social environment.
Community transport services and accessible venues make it easier for older adults to take part, even if they live alone or have mobility challenges.
How Home Instead Bedford Supports Summer Wellbeing
Our carers are trained to monitor hydration, prepare hydrating meals, and adapt routines to support comfort and safety in warmer weather. Whether someone lives with a long-term condition like dementia or simply needs help with daily tasks, our summer support might include:
- Encouraging regular drinks and snacks
- Keeping the home cool and safe
- Planning low-impact, enjoyable outdoor activities
- Providing reassurance and companionship when families are away
We also support safe outings in and around Bedford, whether to a GP appointment, a local café, or an afternoon in the park.
Helping Loved Ones Stay Well This Summer
If you’re a family member or friend, your role is invaluable. You can help by:
- Calling or visiting regularly to check in
- Leaving a jug of water within reach
- Sharing easy hydration tips or setting up routines
- Arranging care support when you’re on holiday
Simple gestures make a lasting difference.
Contact Home Instead Bedford
If you’re concerned about an elderly loved one’s hydration or wellbeing this summer, we’re here to help. Our local team provides personalised, compassionate care that adapts to each person’s needs, whether a few hours a week or more regular support.
Call us today on 0333 060 5795 or contact us online.
Let’s make this summer safe, sociable, and supportive for Bedford’s older adults—one refreshing drink at a time.
