Determination of Daily Fluid Intake Levels and Affecting Factors of Elderly Individuals Living at Home

Abstract

Background/Aims: In this study, it was aimed to determine the daily fluid intake and the factors affecting the fluid intake of elderly individuals living at home. Methods: This descriptive study collected data from a total of 91 elderly individuals. The sociodemographic characteristics form, daily fluid intake determination form, Edmonton Vulnerability Scale, Katz Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Perceived Well-being Scale were used to collect data. For the fluid consumption status, the body surface area of the elderly individuals, the amount of fluid they should take daily, and the amount of fluid consumption deficiency were calculated. Results: It was determined that the elderly individuals consumed an average of 1247.25 ± 428.71 milliliters of fluid per day and the average daily fluid deficit was 1065.60 ± 417.91 milliliters. It has been determined that elderly individuals are in the middle-frail border, semi-dependent in activities of daily living, and their well-being is low. In addition, it has been determined that elderly individuals do not want to go to the toilet frequently, have the most constipation problems due to lack of fluid consumption, and consume the most liquid between meals. Conclusion: It has been determined that elderly individuals consume half as much fluid as they should daily are in the moderate fragility limit, are semi-dependent in daily living activities, and have low well-being. It has been determined that elderly individuals who use less than four drugs, live with their spouse, have been hospitalized before, and do not have a chronic disease consume more fluids.