Hydration: Age as a factor in poor hydration

The two dietary sources of water are food and drink. About 80 per cent comes from drinks and 20 per cent is contained in food. Some older people, however, have diminished appetites or poor nutrition and may miss out on the valuable component of their fluid intake contained in food. The kidneys play a vital role in regulating the amount of fluid in the body, but their function deteriorates.

In addition, thirst, the body’s natural response to dehydration, has been shown to be impaired in older people. Symptoms of mild dehydration include light-headedness, dizziness, headaches and tiredness, as well as reduced alertness and the ability to concentrate.