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The burden and outcomes associated with dehydration among US elderly, 1991
J L Warren1, W E Bacon, T Harris
1Epidemiology Branch, Health Care Financing Administration, Baltimore, MD 21207.
American Journal of Public Health
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Dehydration is a significant cause of hospitalization and mortality in the elderly. Nearly 7% of Medicare hospitalizations involved dehydration, with a 50% mortality rate within one year.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Dehydration is an underappreciated cause of hospitalization and mortality in older adults.
- Previous research has not fully captured the national burden of dehydration-related hospitalizations in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the national burden of hospitalizations with dehydration in the elderly.
- To examine demographic factors and co-occurring diagnoses associated with dehydration hospitalizations.
- To determine the impact of dehydration on mortality in older Medicare beneficiaries.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 1991 Medicare national data files.
- Calculated hospitalization rates for dehydration.
- Examined demographic characteristics, concomitant diagnoses, and mortality outcomes.
Main Results:
- In 1991, 6.7% of Medicare hospitalizations involved dehydration (236.2/10,000 beneficiaries).
- Hospitalizations with dehydration as the principal diagnosis cost Medicare over $446 million.
- Older adults, men, and Black individuals faced elevated risks; acute infections were common comorbidities.
- Approximately 50% of elderly patients hospitalized with dehydration died within one year.
Conclusions:
- Hospitalization with dehydration is a major, costly issue for the elderly population.
- Further research is needed to understand predisposing factors.
- Developing preventative strategies for dehydration in older adults is crucial.