Chief physician Dr. Mimoun Azizi: “Drink enough, especially as you get older!”
After a few rather unstable weeks, summer is now really picking up speed in our region. “Higher temperatures can pose particular challenges for older people,” says Dr. Mimoun Azizi, chief physician of the Geriatrics and Neurogeriatrics Clinic at the Celle General Hospital (AKH). “Unfortunately, the problem of insufficient fluid intake in particular is something we see again and again.”
There are clear recommendations from numerous professional associations: people over the age of 65 who are lightly physically active and have no restrictions due to any heart problems are recommended to drink a total of 2.2 liters of fluid per day. This can be consumed in the form of 1.5 liters of water/drinks and 700 ml of solid food. “This is also desirable for the excretory function of the kidneys,” explains Dr. Azizi.
When doing more intense physical activity, you should drink more fluids. “People also lose fluids through sweat and breathing. When temperatures rise, in particular, you can sweat more and lose more fluids,” says the doctor. Other factors also influence fluid balance.
“It’s not that easy to keep track of everything and always drink enough fluids,” the chief physician continues. And then there is another special feature – especially for senior citizens. “Unfortunately, it is often observed that older people simply forget to drink,” explains Dr. Azizi.
The causes are varied: cognitive limitations, increasing forgetfulness, “bad habits”. The consequences of insufficient fluid intake can be serious: states of confusion, concentration and attention disorders, which can also lead to falls. In addition, there are limitations in kidney function and, not infrequently, urinary tract infections.
“That’s why drinking enough fluids is extremely important, especially in old age. Together with a healthy diet, it is the prerequisite for being able to fully participate and enjoy life as a senior citizen,” says the chief physician. “A tip: prepare your daily fluid requirements every morning in your current favorite variety and make them clearly visible – for example, water and different types of tea. It can also be helpful to set fixed times for drinking throughout the day and perhaps have a reminder on your cell phone.”
In the summer months, especially as you get older, you should always drink enough.
Friday, July 28, 2024
AKH Cell
Siemensplatz 4
29223 Celle
Tel.: 05141 72-0
Fax: 05141 72-3129
