Page 113 - NACC – 2018 Yearbook

Tetley Understanding the importance of hydration
Tetley is a proud NACC premier partner and delighted to be able to share its 180 years of expertise with care caterers. As the nation’s favourite tea brand1 and having had experience in the market since 1837, Tetley is dedicated to providing education and encouraging the importance of hydration – and consequently that of tea – within care environments.
CHAMPIONING HYDRATION IN THE CARE SECTOR
The human body is comprised of between 50-75% of water2, depending on a person’s age and gender, and as we age we become much more vulnerable to dehydration. To overcome this, it is vital that uid levels are replenished often to maintain optimum hydration levels, as well as support mental and physical well being – when thirsty there can be a 10% reduction in cognitive ability3. What’s more, improving hydration can reduce anxiety and improve quality of life for both residents and sta . With 37% of over 65’s dehydrated on admission into care environments4, it’s crucial that care sta know the causes of dehydration in residents in order to understand what can be done to promote good hydration practices.
TIME FOR TEA
Tea has a key role in the care sector – it can contribute to maintaining su cient nutrition and hydration in not only patients, but sta and visitors too. Tea is a national treasure, with volume growth steady at 4.1% YoY in care4. Not only can a cuppa contribute to daily uid intake, but also the familiar taste can o er comfort to residents. On average, residents drink two to three cups of tea per day and the top three occasions for drinking tea in care are; to pass time, for a quiet drink and to relax4.
While black tea remains a rm favourite, fruit and herbal and green blends all have their individual health bene ts. Despite some common myths regarding ca eine and hydration, black tea and fruit and herbal blends all contribute towards levels of hydration.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Food has a large contribution to uid intake – 20-30% of daily uid should come from food5. A lack of water can also lead to appetite suppression meaning care chefs must ensure there are hydrating dishes on the menu that are also high in energy and easy for residents to swallow.
Additionally, stimulating activities combined with subtle hydration prompts are an integral part of the daily routine. From hosting a tea dance and socialising over a cuppa, to smoothie making and reminiscing over particular food and drink items, there are many ways to keep residents hydrated.
Last year, Tetley launched the Hydration Handbook – the go-to guide to help care homes champion hydration. For menu ideas, activity inspiration and understanding the role of tea in the care sector, download your copy from the Tetley Tea Academy website today.
Tetley tetleyteaacademy.co.uk @TetleyTeaOOH
Sources: 1 Kantar April 2016 to October 11th 2016; 2 www.naturalhydrationcouncil.org.uk; 3 Rogers et al 2001; 4 Tetley Tea Report 2018; 5 BDA March 2017
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PREMIER PARTNERS TETLEY