Which statement is a sign of dehydration in older adults?

Which statement is a sign of dehydration in older adults?

• A. Thirst is reliable in older adults.
• B. Fatigue
• C. Dry mouth
• D. Dark urine

Answer: (C)

Dry mouth signals dehydration in older adults because reduced fluids lead to less saliva production, making the mouth feel dry and sticky. As people age, the sense of thirst often becomes blunted, so thirst isn’t a reliable cue by itself. Fatigue can arise from many causes and isn’t specific to hydration status. Dark urine can indicate dehydration as well, but urine color is influenced by medications, foods, and kidney function, so it isn’t as consistently reliable on its own. Dry mouth remains a direct and commonly observed sign of dehydration in older adults.

Dry mouth signals dehydration in older adults because reduced fluids lead to less saliva production, making the mouth feel dry and sticky. As people age, the sense of thirst often becomes blunted, so thirst isn’t a reliable cue by itself. Fatigue can arise from many causes and isn’t specific to hydration status. Dark urine can indicate dehydration as well, but urine color is influenced by medications, foods, and kidney function, so it isn’t as consistently reliable on its own. Dry mouth remains a direct and commonly observed sign of dehydration in older adults.