Fluid avoidance and fluid drinking in older adults: A neglected behavioral issue

L. T. Kozlowski, Frank Martin Ahern, J. A. Beard, R. Nielsen, M. F. Picciano, H. Smiciklas-Wright, J. L. Pillitteri

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Previous research suggests the elderly have a diminished sense of thirst. Reduced thirst and reduced meal and snack frequency have been discussed as major influences on lowered fluid intake in the elderly. Such reduced fluid intake can lead to problems of hypohydration and dehydration that can in turn lead to life-threatening effects on the cardiovascular system. especially in times of heat stress. We surveyed 126 older adults (males and females, aged 60 to 90), to determine the extent to which another influence on fluid drinking (water and other beverages) was the avoidance of drinks. Various multiple regression models showed consistently that avoidance of 'drinking in the evening so that you will be less likely to get up to urinate during the night' was a predictor of self-reported daily drink intake. High rates of pharmaceutical use are also discussed as a confounding issue.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)65-71
Number of pages7
JournalBehavior, Health, and Aging
Volume3
Issue number2
StatePublished - Dec 1 1993

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Fluid avoidance and fluid drinking in older adults: A neglected behavioral issue'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this