Nutrition is the process of providing the body with the essential nutrients it needs to function properly, while hydration is maintaining adequate fluid intake to keep the body hydrated. Nutrition is about obtaining the necessary food and nutrients for good health and well-being. Hydration refers to the process of providing the body with sufficient fluids, primely water to function properly.
The amount and the combination of nutrients consumed are important for health and for the body to function at its best. Eating and drinking the right food and fluid to stay healthy and well is important throughout life, especially as we get older.
Importance and benefits of balanced nutrition
A balanced diet provides the body with the required vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, and fats). These nutrients are essential for energy, growth, repair, and overall bodily functions. A healthy diet can help increase energy levels, control weight, and potentially prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Importance and benefits of balanced hydration
Water is essential for various bodily processes, including regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients, and removing waste products. Staying hydrated prevents dehydration. Dehydration can lead to various health problems. Adequate fluid intake supports optimal organ function, digestion, and overall bodily processes.
Why Nutrition and hydration is important in elderly people
- Preventing malnutrition
- Maintaining healthy body weight
- Preventing dehydration
- Supporting cognitive function
- Managing chronic diseases
- Promoting independence and quality of life
Studies in UK highlight that malnutrition and dehydration are significant concerns for older adults, with a high prevalence in various settings like their own home environment, care homes and hospitals. Adequate hydration is linked to fewer Falla, reduced constipation, and better rehabilitation outcomes, while malnutrition is associated with increased risk of frailty and higher healthcare utilization. In the UK, malnutrition and dehydration are common reasons for hospital admissions, affecting significant number of patients. Around 1 in 3 patients admitted to hospital, who are in care homes or lives alone are malnourished or at risk of becoming so. Poor nutrition and hydration not only harms patients’ health and wellbeing, it can also reduce their ability to recover and leads to increased admissions to hospitals and care homes.
Signs and symptoms of Malnutrition and dehydration
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Confusion and disorientation
- Unintentional weight loss
- Lack of Appetite
- Muscle loss
- Cognitive decline
- Increased susceptibility to illness
- Delayed wound healing
- Skin changes
- Dental issues
- Dry mouth, lips and skin
- Thirst
- Dark urine
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Reduced urine output
Tips for promoting nutrition and hydration in older adults
- Encourage regular meal and snacks
- Provide a variety of nutrients rich food
- Encourage fluids throughout the day
- Address any underlying factors that may affect eating or drinking
- Involve family members and care givers in creating a supportive environment for eating and drinking.
Supreme Care Birmingham provides domiciliary care that plays a vital role in preventing malnutrition and dehydration among elderly individuals living in Northfield, West Heath, Longbridge, Kings Norton, Stirchley, Bournville, and Selly Oak.
Our team supports clients in maintaining a balanced diet and adequate hydration by offering personalised meal plans, grocery shopping assistance, and meal preparation support.
Our Eating and Drinking Care Plan is tailored to encourage regular eating and drinking habits, monitor signs of dehydration and malnutrition, track daily fluid intake, and provide companionship during mealtimes.
All our team members receive nutrition and hydration training as part of their core induction and ongoing professional development.
If you or your loved one lives alone and is struggling to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and hydration, Supreme Care Birmingham offers a free assessment at home to provide tailored support.
Please call us or complete the enquiry form on our website for more details.
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