Dehydration and Malnutrition Pose Huge Problems In Nursing Homes

Written by Adam Peck Category: Nursing Homes January 23rd, 2013 1 min read

Dehydration occurs when one’s body does not have as much water and fluids as it should. Dehydration can be caused by losing too much fluid, not drinking enough water or fluids, or both. Diarrhea and vomiting are two of the most common causes. Malnutrition is the condition that occurs when your body does not get enough nutrients. Dehydration and Malnutrition have become huge problems in nursing homes, due to high susceptibility of the elderly.

Physiologic changes related to aging make an elderly adult more prone to dehydration. They have about 1/10 less body fluid than a younger adult. The sense of taste diminishes with age, food may become unappetizing. Consequently, they may eat less and use more salt, raising the body’s need for water. At the same time, however, their thirst response may diminish, so they may not recognize the need to drink more. For these reasons, an elderly adult may become severely dehydrated very quickly, before they feel thirsty or anyone notices symptoms.

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Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.