And gavest them bread from heaven for their hunger, and broughtest forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst and promisedst them that they should go in to possess the land which thou hadst sworn to give them. Nehemiah 9:15 KJV
God’s provision of water for us has healing properties and can keep us healthy. When God created the world, He had a perfect plan for mankind’s spiritual thirst and natural thirst and in both instances, it was water. For our spiritual thirst, He gives us water that springs up into eternal life, that will cause us to never thirst again (John 14:4) through the Holy Ghost. For our natural or physical thirst, He has given us H2O, and we are in constant need of it. Here’s why we place great importance on the seniors at His Grace Senior Living Center drinking plenty of water. Hydration and more specifically, water is crucial for senior citizens in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to several reasons. UTIs are common in older adults, and maintaining adequate hydration can significantly reduce the risk of these infections.
- Dilution of Urine: Water helps to dilute the concentration of urine. This makes it less likely for bacteria to multiply and cause an infection in the urinary tract.
- Flushing Out Bacteria: Drinking plenty of water, encourages frequent urination. This, in turn, helps to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.
- Improved Immune Function: Adequate hydration supports overall immune system function. A well-hydrated body is better equipped to fight off infections, including UTIs. Seniors often have weakened immune systems, so maintaining proper hydration can be especially important.
- Preventing Constipation: Dehydration can lead to constipation, which can increase the risk of UTIs. When stool becomes hard and difficult to pass, it can put pressure on the bladder and urinary tract, potentially leading to an infection. Staying hydrated helps maintain regular bowel movements and reduces this risk.
- Medication Efficacy: Seniors with UTIs may be prescribed antibiotics. Proper hydration can improve the effectiveness of these medications by ensuring they are properly diluted in the bloodstream and can reach the site of infection in the urinary tract.
- Preventing Complications: UTIs in senior citizens can lead to more serious complications, such as kidney infections, sepsis, or even death. Staying well-hydrated can help prevent the development of these complications by reducing the likelihood of bacteria ascending from the bladder to the kidneys.
To ensure that senior citizens remain adequately hydrated and reduce their risk of UTIs, it’s essential to encourage them to specifically drink water and other fluids regularly. Here at His Grace Senior Living Center one of our upscale amenities is our whole house water softener that features alkaline drinking water. Each family is asked to supply their senior loved one with a large sized drinking container. Our caregivers monitor our seniors reminding them to fill their containers throughout the day. This is important especially in individuals who may have difficulty recognizing their own thirst cues or those with mobility issues that may limit their access to fluids.
These are some common symptoms of UTI’s:
1 Strong odor
2 Burning sensation during urination
3 Cloudy Urine
4 Discomfort in your back or side or lower abdomen
5 Fever/Chills
Additional symptoms that may appear in older adults are:
1 Agitation
2 Lethargy
3 Weakness that leads to falls
4 Urinary Retention
5 Decreased Mobility
6 Decreased Appetite
Because we cherish having our seniors around for many years to come, we will continue to assist them with staying hydrated by encouraging them to drink plenty of water all while preventing UTI’s. If you suspect that you or your loved one is experiencing any of these UTI symptoms, seek medical attention. In the meantime, “Drink up!” Many Blessings to you from His Grace Senior Living Center.
