National and International governments, along with institutions, are becoming increasingly concerned about the climate of the world. But, it also requires us ALL to do our fair share!
Because of that, we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of water by encouraging people’s awareness of their use of this essential resource. Water consumption, waste, and needed savings are crucial things to consider, and we will address ways to help below
Our Daily Water
Fact: Our bodies consist of mostly water, and in fact, it is about 70% for an average adult. Water is essential for maintaining a healthy life. Water aids in the transport of substances throughout the body, toxin excretion, temperature regulation, and it also increases physical endurance.
We lose water in various ways throughout the day, and it is estimated that we need about 2 liters a day.
The Importance of Water for the Elderly
Maintaining the right amount of water in the body is essential for everyone, especially the elderly, as they have a reduction in the volume of water in the body, reaching 50%. Our elderly are more susceptible to dehydration.
Inadequate water intake can lead to a thickening of the blood, increasing heart rate, and altering blood pressure. Low water consumption can also create confusion, which can even be confused with other illnesses such as Alzheimer’s. In asthmatic elderly, for example, lack of water can cause airway dehydration and may be a factor in seizures. In those with skin allergies, this may lead to dry skin that is more susceptible to irritation.
In general, our body warns when we need water, but in the elderly, this mechanism can be compromised. Thus, family members need to help the elderly to remember that it is essential to drink every two hours. It is suggested to place a bottle of water near them, on a table or bedside table where your elderly loved one spends most of their hours. You can always add slices of lemon or orange to the water to make their drink more enjoyable.
Know what you spend and what you can simply save
According to the United Nations, a person needs 29 gallons of water a day to satisfy their basic needs. It sounds like a lot, but if we think a little about daily spending, we quickly reach this amount:
A 15-minute shower with the tap open consumes about 47 gallons.
Decreasing shower time to 5 minutes will reduce consumption to 16 gallons. A shower with a flow reduction system can save up to 80% compared to regular use.
When you wash your hands or teeth with the tap open, you may use up to 3 gallons of water. If you use a glass, it can decrease to just 1 liter.
By keeping the tap open while shaving, you can use up to 10 gallons of water. If you put a lid on the sink, it will only waste 2 liters.
Washing the car with a hose can use up to 132 gallons of water.
Washing with bucket and sponge will reduce the expense to 13 gallons.
Each flush toilet spends about 4 gallons of water.
If you put a 1.5-liter bottle into the water tank, it may decrease to 2 gallons per discharge.
A leaky tap every 5 seconds for 24 hours can use up to 8 gallons of water per day, which is more than 2,642 gallons of water per year. If there are no leaks, reduce to 0.
As a final point, after knowing that an average person needs only 29 gallons of water a day, we, as humans, must understand the importance of water and, above all, how to preserve it, so we can significantly reduce waste.
And remember: Small everyday gestures can make all the difference.
Pull your weight!
