When planning meals for older adults in a long-term care facility, the nurse keeps in mind the ...

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Older adults need encouragement to drink adequate amounts of water. Generally, seniors have lower fluid reserves to protect them during periods of excess fluid loss or reduced fluid intake. Many older adults do not experience thirst as strongly as do younger people. Sometimes, the older adult avoids drinking fluids because of problems with urinary incontinence, urinary retention, or frequency. Dehydration is a serious and frequently overlooked problem in this age group. The nurse should offer a variety of fluids and provide assistance to clients who are unable to consume fluids independently.