Evaluation of water balance in a population of older adults. A case control study

Abstract

Older adults are at risk for dehydration and its' potentially life-threatening consequences. Unrecognized dehydration can complicate chronic medical problems and increase morbidity. The objective of the study was to estimate water balance, intake and loss in elderly people living in Greece using the Water Balance Questionnaire (WBQ). WBQ was administered in winter to 108 independents (65-81yrs) (Group A), 94 independents (82-92yrs) (Group B) and 51 hospitalized (65-92yrs) (Group C). A database from previous study of 335 adults (18-65yrs) (Control Group) used for comparison. Mean estimates of water balance, intake and loss were, respectively, for Group A-749±1386mL/day, 2571±739mL/day and 3320±1216mL/day, for Group B-38±933mL/day, 2571±739mL/day and 3320±1216mL/day, for Group C 64±1399mL/day, 2586±1071mL/day and 2522±1048mL/day and for Control Group-253±1495mL/day, 2912±1025mL/day and 3492±2099mL/day. Significant differences were detected in water balance, intake and loss (p<0.01). Water balance and water intake in Group A was the lowest. For Groups A, B, C and Control, contribution of solid foods to water intake was 36%, 29%, 32%, 25%, of drinking water was 32%, 48%, 45%, 47%, of beverages was 32%, 23%, 23% and 28% respectively. Significant differences observed in the contribution of drinking water and beverages (p<0.01). Group A had lower water balance and water intake. Groups B and C had lower water intake from beverages.