Most of us understand the importance of staying hydrated, but as we age, hydration becomes even more critical to maintaining good health. Proper hydration supports essential bodily functions and is crucial to our overall well-being. New data from Aquasana’s 2024 Water Quality Survey shows that 76% of U.S. adults believe that drinking cleaner, filtered water is essential for a longer, healthier life. This emphasizes an increasing understanding of how hydration, and water quality, impact our health and longevity.
In this article, we’ll delve into the crucial connection between hydration, water quality, and healthy aging. By examining how hydration impacts health, and why the quality of the water we drink is just as important, we can better understand how to support our well-being as we grow older.
The Role of Hydration in Longevity
Hydration is key for maintaining overall health, and its importance only increases as we age. As we grow older, our bodies are less able to conserve water, making dehydration more likely and potentially leading to serious health complications. Dehydration can increase the risk of issues with temperature regulation, joint health, and nutrient absorption, especially in older adults.
Additionally, a 2022 study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that people who stay well-hydrated are less likely to develop chronic diseases, and may live longer. Proper hydration has also been linked to better cognitive function and improved mood, both important factors in promoting healthy aging.
However, it’s not just about drinking enough water. The quality of the water we consume is equally as important. Contaminants in tap water such as lead, microplastics, or chlorine can have negative impacts on health, especially for older adults, so it’s important to ensure that the water we’re consuming has been filtered for harsh chemicals and contaminants.
Why Water Quality Matters
The quality of the water we drink is a key factor in maintaining health, especially as we age. Unfiltered tap water can contain harmful contaminants, such as PFAS, microplastics, and lead, that can pose significant health risks to older adults. A recent U.S. Geological Survey found that nearly half of the tap water in the United States contains PFAS, otherwise known as “forever chemicals,” which linger in our bodies and have been linked to health issues such as cancer, thyroid disease, and liver damage.
Aquasana’s survey data shows a rising awareness of these contaminants, with concern over PFAS up 233% since 2020. As more people recognize the potential dangers of drinking unfiltered tap water, they are taking steps to ensure they’re consuming cleaner, safer water. For aging adults in particular, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful contaminants.
To make sure the water you’re drinking is helping benefit your overall health, you can keep up with local water quality reports and use a certified water filter. Not all water filters are certified to remove contaminants like PFAS, lead, and microplastics, so it’s important to read a filter’s performance data sheet to ensure that your filter is actually effective at removing contaminants to safe levels.
Choosing the Right Water Filter for Your Home
When selecting a filter for your home, it’s important to consider how each option meets your needs. Different filter types, such as countertop filters, under-sink filters, and whole-house filters all have different benefits and potential drawbacks. It’s important to research what type of filter may best suit your needs.
Countertop Filters
One option is a countertop filter. These filters offer convenience and ease of use and don’t require any permanent installation, making them a great choice for a quick and easy filtration solution. However, they do not provide filtered water directly from the tap and need to be refilled frequently, they also take up space on your countertop.
Under-Sink Filters
Conversely, under-sink filters are installed directly at the tap for convenient access to filtered water. Many under-sink filters leverage more advanced technologies, like reverse osmosis, which is able to target specific contaminants like arsenic and fluoride. However, some under-sink filters require a more involved installation process and plumbing modifications compared to countertop filters, which might be a consideration for someone seeking an easier setup. Some under-sink filters, such as Aquasana’s Claryum Direct Connect, are easier to install because they don’t require a dedicated faucet or plumber.
Whole-House Filters
For those looking for a more comprehensive solution, whole-house water filters provide filtration at the point where water enters your home. This means that all water in your home, whether it’s used for drinking, cooking, or bathing, is filtered. This is particularly beneficial if you live in an area with known water quality issues, as it covers every faucet and appliance. For example, Aquasana’s OptimH2O Whole House Filter is tested and certified to reduce lead, cysts, and PFOA/PFOS out of every faucet in your home. However, whole-house filters require a higher up-front investment and typically need professional help to install.
Each type of filter will have its pros and cons, so it’s important to take all factors into consideration to choose one that aligns with your lifestyle.
Wrapping Up
Investing in clean, filtered water is an essential step in maintaining health and well-being, particularly as we age. By choosing the right water filter, you can ensure that the water you drink is free from harmful contaminants, supporting your health for years to come. For older adults, this is not just a matter of convenience—it’s an investment in longevity and quality of life. Taking proactive steps to improve water quality at home can lead to better health outcomes and greater peace of mind.
