A Glass of Water

It starts with something simple—a missed glass of water.

Every day, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels goes #BeyondTheMeal. For many of the seniors we serve, a meal delivery is also a wellness check, a friendly face, and an opportunity to notice when something isn’t right.

As summer temperatures begin to rise across Los Angeles County, one of the greatest threats facing many older adults is also one of the easiest to overlook: dehydration.

For seniors living alone, dehydration can quickly become a serious health concern. As we age, our sense of thirst naturally decreases, making it easier to miss the warning signs until symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, confusion, weakness, or even falls begin to appear.

“Hydration is one of the most overlooked aspects of healthy aging,” said Brooke Rosell, MS, RD, Registered Dietitian for St. Vincent Meals on Wheels. “Because thirst signals become less reliable with age, many older adults may not recognize they are becoming dehydrated until symptoms develop. Making hydration a daily priority can help support physical health, cognitive function, and quality of life while reducing the risk of preventable health complications.”

That’s why our staff, volunteers, and drivers pay attention to more than the meal itself. During periods of extreme heat, a simple reminder to drink water can help prevent a minor problem from becoming a serious health crisis.

A glass of water may not seem like much. But caring for another person often begins with small things—a meal delivered with a smile, or a reminder to stay hydrated on a hot day.

As we approach 50 years of service, we are reminded that our mission has always been built on these everyday acts of care. With your support, we will continue delivering food and love to vulnerable seniors across Los Angeles County and serving as a safety net for those who need us most.

Have a wonderful week ahead.