Our memory, our mood, our energy. When Berndt feels out of sorts at the office, she said, she reaches first for a water glass. Especially susceptible to dehydration are children and seniors. In older people, the sensation of thirst that signals the need for water is delayed, said Baker. In addition, many seniors suffer from several chronic medical conditions and may take a variety of medications, including diuretics that increase the secretion of urine.
Children can sense thirst.
They just often don't stop playing long enough to get a drink. Older people may need to be reminded to drink enough water and to have fluids on hand at home. If cold water is too much of a shock to their system, room-temperature water is preferable. Instead of trying to bring kids to water, take the water to the kids. Use a beverage bottle on a shoulder strap.