Dehydration is Common Among Frail Older Adults

Serum tests of 188 seniors living in a community setting showed 20% were dehydrated at the time their blood was drawn. Dehydration can be a serious problem among the frail elderly, as it can impair cognition and renal function. The researchers note thirst was not associated with hydration status in this group, suggesting caregivers need to pay closer attention to their residents’ fluid intake. he Journals of Gerontology, November 2015