Association between low water intake and lung function impairment in elderly adults: a cross-sectional study

This study aimed to investigate the association between water intake and lung function impairment, focusing on the potential effect of dehydration on respiratory health in elderly adults.

A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural regions of Taiwan between March and December 2022. A total of 888 participants were enrolled. Data collection included lung function tests, physiological measurements, demographic characteristics, and medical histories. The effects of various variables on lung function were analysed across different age groups.

Both restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment were significantly associated with older age, low water intake, and lower educational attainment. Restrictive lung function impairment was additionally correlated with the presence of cardiometabolic diseases, whereas obstructive lung function impairment was associated with male sex and smoking. Among participants aged over 65 years, low water consumption was associated with increased odds of restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment.

Low water intake is associated with an increased risk of both restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment, particularly in elderly adults. Public health interventions promoting adequate hydration may help preserve pulmonary function in elderly population.