Dehydration and Dysphagia: Challenges in the Older Adult

摘要

The purpose of this article is to integrate current information regarding prevalence, risk factors, and management of dehydration. Dehydration is a pervasive condition affecting older adults in hospitals, long-term care facilities (LTC), and in the community. If left untreated, 50% of those with dehydration will die. Risk factors increase in the elderly because of physiological changes due to underlying disease processes. Dysphagia-inefficient or unsafe swallowing-is a known risk factor for dehydration. Dehydration management presents challenges. Approaches to prevent and manage dehydration, including those with dysphagia, are included.