Have you or someone you know become a victim of nursing home neglect?

If so, contact one of our experienced nursing home lawyers today. Help End Nursing Home Abuse

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when elderly nursing home residents do not have the necessary fluid content in their body to perform normal and crucial bodily functions. Most body systems and organs are drastically affected by water deprivation, and dehydration can be especially harmful in the elderly.

Causes of dehydration in nursing home residents include:

• Increased fluid losses due to illness (e.g., diarrhea, infections, fever)
• Side effects of medications (e.g., diuretics)
• Decreased fluid intake
• Decreased ability of the kidney to concentrate urine
• Decreased thirst sensation

Residents with Alzheimer's or dementia, incontinent residents, and residents suffering from colds or the flu are at an increased risk for dehydration. Changes in functional and cognitive status (e.g., mobility and dementia) may also increase the likelihood that a nursing home resident will suffer from dehydration.

Elderly nursing home residents who do not receive adequate fluids are more susceptible to urinary tract infections, pneumonia, decubitus ulcers, and confusion and disorientation. In addition, life-threatening electrolyte imbalances can occur. Dehydration should be managed through an individualized daily plan to promote adequate hydration. Nursing homes have a responsibility to provide adequate hydration to their residents, and to provide the proper training to their employees to recognize the signs and symptoms of dehydration.