Dehydration Risk Factors in Older Adults

Increased insensible fluid losses

sweating from fever or climate increase respiratory rate vomiting diarrhea polyuria exudative wound or fistula

Lack of free access to fluids

dependency on others cognitive impairment physical impairment

Voluntary fluid restriction to manage

incontinence nocturia diuretic side effect limited physical movement due to mobility or pain issues

Physical changes of aging

decrease body mass decrease total body water decrease thirst from aging, medication, or disease impaired angiotensin production

Symptoms of dehydration

darkened urine decrease urine output confusion lethargy headache light-headedness sunken eyes dry mucous membranes dry axillae (arm pit) long tongue furrows postural changes in pulse and blood pressure