Older adults have unique nutritional and hydration needs, as well as some challenges that make meeting them difficult. Combining hydrating drinks with healthy ingredients is a great way to overcome those challenges. We’ve done the research for you and found seven drinks for seniors that help you meet nutritional needs while staying hydrated.
7 Healthy and Nutritious Drinks for Seniors That Actually Taste Good
Healthy drinks are common today; gone are the days when you had to go to a specialty store to find nutritious options. You can find nutritious drinks for seniors in most grocery, convenience, and big box stores. However, that doesn’t mean that every option on the shelves is something you actually want to drink.
1. Smoothies
Smoothies are a great option for getting whole-food goodness in liquid form. You can make smoothies at home with a standard blender or purchase them premade from the grocery store. The latter is a popular choice for people who want to ensure that older family members are getting the right mix of nutrition.
If you choose to make smoothies at home, you have nearly endless options for customization. Start with frozen fruit and add milk or other liquids, ice, yogurt, or even oats or chia seeds for a protein boost. You can also buy frozen smoothie blends that contain frozen yogurt to make prep simpler.
One thing to keep in mind when making smoothies is that they can be relatively high in calories and sugar. Watch out for frozen fruits or mixes that contain added sugars or artificial flavors, sticking with natural fruits and veggies instead. This will help maximize the nutritional content of each delicious sip.
2. Ensure/Boost
If you need more targeted and measurable nutritious drinks for the elderly, options like Ensure and Boost could fill the need. You can purchase them in pre-measured serving containers, so you know exactly how much to drink. Diet options have sugar alternatives which make them great drinks for seniors who have to limit their sugar intake. Drinks like Ensure are ideal for seniors who need extra assistance with daily activities.
With flavor choices ranging from vanilla and chocolate to banana nut and coffee latte, you are sure to find one that suits your tastes. Additionally, Ensure has a clear option, which has 8 grams of protein, 15 essential vitamins and minerals, and zero fat.
3. Milk
Milk is a great option to help you stay hydrated and meet some nutritional requirements. It is an especially good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining bone health. Research indicates that milk is more effective than water for replacing lost fluids. Some of that may be due to sodium in it, which helps the body retain water.
While it is among the top drinks for seniors, standard milk is not for everyone. Luckily options such as lactose-free milk for individuals with lactose intolerance and skim milk for those looking to limit calories make it more appealing.
4. Coconut Water
One of the most underrated health drinks for seniors is coconut water. It contains an amazing blend of electrolytes, particularly potassium, in a very hydrating formula. That potassium can be a red flag for some seniors who have kidney issues. As always, talk to your doctor about proper nutrition if you have any underlying health concerns.
5. Vegetable Juice
Vegetables are a tremendous source of vitamins and minerals. They are also mostly low in calories and sugar, making vegetable juice an excellent way to get some extra nutrients. Some vegetable-based drinks for seniors to choose from include:
- Carrot juice
- Tomato juice
- V-8 juice
If you have the time and energy, consider investing in a juicer to make your own blends. This gives you flexibility as far as taste and sugar content. It also lets you add extras, such as supplement powders or seeds for protein.
6. Water
Let’s not forget the importance of drinking water. It has zero calories and plays a huge role in keeping older adults — and everyone else — properly hydrated. If you need a little variety, add some fruit pieces, frozen fruit ice cubes, or cucumber slices to your water for a boost of flavor.
The exact amount you need to drink each day varies depending on your diet, age, and activity levels, but the National Council on Aging recommends adults over 50 consume fluids equivalent to about one-third of their body weight. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have any questions about whether you are drinking enough water.
7. Fruit Juice
While older adults are generally better off getting their fruit in solid portions that include all the beneficial fiber, 100% fruit juice is a very healthy choice in moderation. Fruit juice can help older adults get the vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients found in most fruits while helping boost hydration levels. It also appeals to a sweet tooth.
A word of caution: Fruit juice can have a ton of sugar in it. You want to limit sugar intake as much as possible, especially if there are any underlying health concerns such as diabetes. The sugar in fruit juice is all-natural, but it is still a lot.
The Importance of Hydration for Older Adults
Seniors must stay hydrated. Adequate fluid intake ensures electrolyte balances, which help the heart and nervous system function properly. Dehydration can impair cognitive function, cause kidney damage, and lead to an increased risk of falls.
However, some challenges make staying hydrated difficult for older adults. First, feelings of thirst generally decline with age. Older adults may not feel thirsty and reduce their fluid intake. Additionally, some underlying health issues can complicate fluid management. Kidney disease can interfere with their ability to hold water, resulting in dehydration. Some medications may also cause you to expel excess water.
Learn More About Healthy Drinks for Seniors With Elder Care Alliance
At Elder Care Alliance, we understand the importance of staying hydrated. Our care options can help ensure that you or your loved ones have plenty of options for healthy drinks for seniors. Schedule a visit to learn more.
