Which population is most at risk for dehydration?

The elderly and infants are the populations most at risk for dehydration due to several physiological factors.

Infants have a higher body water content and a greater surface area-to-volume ratio compared to older children and adults, making them more vulnerable to fluid loss through evaporation and less capable of conserving water. Their inability to communicate thirst further complicates their hydration status, especially when they are ill or experiencing gastrointestinal disturbances.

In the elderly, age-related changes, such as decreased renal function, diminished thirst perception, and the presence of chronic health conditions, contribute significantly to their risk of dehydration. Older adults may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need fluid, and often they have reduced capacity for fluid regulation. Additionally, medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as diuretics, can increase fluid loss, increasing their susceptibility to dehydration.

Understanding the unique vulnerabilities of these age groups is crucial for effective nursing care and prevention strategies in both community and healthcare settings.