Dehydration: biological considerations, age-related changes, and risk factors in older adults

Maintenance of water balance is essential to normal physiologic function and vigorous aging. Older adults, however, frequently experience alterations in fluid homeostasis, which result in dehydration. This article describes the physiology of water balance, age-related changes that influence fluid regulation, and associated risk factors for dehydration in older adults. Fluid hygiene is an important health promotion activity for this age group, but when efforts to prevent imbalance are unsuccessful, early identification and intervention to correct problems should be done to minimize adverse consequences. Although much is known about fluid homeostasis, dehydration, and contributory factors in the aging process, water disorders remain prevalent in this group. A great deal of work is still needed to determine "best practices" and creative clinical interventions to support adequate fluid intake behaviors. Both quality management programs and research studies provide avenues for systematic evaluation.