Dehydration in the elderly is a problem that is all too common. What causes dehydration in the elderly? (Mark all that apply.)
A) Decreased kidney mass
B) Increased conservation of sodium
C) Increased total body water
D) Decreased renal blood flow
E) Decreased excretion of potassium
Ans: A, D, E
Feedback: Dehydration in the elderly is common as a result of decreased kidney mass, decreased glomerular filtration rate, decreased renal blood flow, decreased ability to concentrate urine, inability to conserve sodium, decreased excretion of potassium, and a decrease of total body water. Therefore, options B and C are incorrect.
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