Recognizing and Reporting Signs of Malnutrition and Dehydration
As many as half of all older adults are at risk of malnutrition. Malnutrition occurs when a person’s
body does not get enough nutrients. This can be because of diet, digestive problems, dental problems, or a medical condition. Other factors that can lead to malnutrition include the following.
- Problems chewing, mouth pain, or dentures that don’t fit
- An upset stomach, constipation, bloating, or gas
- Living alone
- Taking multiple medications
- Substance abuse
- No appetite
Malnutrition can lead to medical complications, weakness that leads to falls and injuries, and hospitalization.
A client with malnutrition can have a decreased ability to resist infection, heal wounds, or recover from illness, surgery, or other treatments. Observe clients for these warning signs of malnutrition.
- Unintended weight loss (e.g. clothing that is now too big)
- Eating less than half of meals and snacks
- Constant fatigue or dizziness
- Depression, loneliness, grief
- Confusion
Document and report any signs of malnutrition or dehydration to the appropriate person in your care setting.
Dehydration
Dehydration can be caused by losing too much fluid, not drinking enough water or fluids, or certain
medications. A common cause of dehydration is loss of fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, and/or high fever.
Dehydration can be mild, moderate, or severe. When severe, dehydration is a life-threatening emergency. Many factors can affect how quickly a client becomes dehydrated including heat, medications, diet, how active they are, and body size. Report any of these symptoms to the appropriate person in your care setting.
Warning Signs of Dehydration
- prolonged vomiting or diarrhea
- thirst
- dry or sticky mouth
- cracked lips
- headache
- fatigue
- dizziness
- confusion
- heavy perspiration
- fever
- dark urine
- constipation
- leg cramps
Getting More Information
Senior Nutrition Programs are available in most geographic areas and help older people with nutrition problems. Contact or encourage the client to call for assistance or a referral to a dietitian for some help.