In one study, half of those hospitalized for dehydration died within a year of admission. One reason older people are at high risk for dehydration is because the mechanism that normally triggers thirst becomes less sensitive with age. Also, as we age a lower percentage of our body weight is fluid, so dehydration can occur more rapidly. Elderly people who live at home are most vulnerable to dehydration, especially when they are ill. In addition to fluid loss from fever or diarrhea, sickness often interferes with normal eating and drinking patterns.
Alcohol can also contribute to dehydration.
It takes eight ounces of water to metabolize just one ounce of alcohol. The person who downs a stiff drink on the rocks as a nightcap needs to chase that drink with a large glass of water. Common symptoms of dehydration include fatigue, headache, dry nasal passages, dry or cracked lips, and overall discomfort. However, by the time you become aware of these symptoms, dehydration has long since set in. Do a fluid audit on yourself, your family and your elderly friends.