Question

which of the following accurately describes concerns about water intake in elderly people?
select one:
a. they may not feel thirsty or recognize dryness of the mouth
b. they have an increased total body water content as compared with younger adults
c. they urinate more frequently, so require greater hydration
d. they tend toward overhydration, which results in mental lapses and disorientation
e. they develop pressure ulcers and urinary tract infections due to abundant intake of foods with high-water content

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Elderly people often have a blunted thirst sensation, meaning they may not feel thirsty or recognize mouth dryness, which is a common concern for their water intake.
• Option B: Elderly people typically have a decreased total body water content, not increased, so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Urination frequency in the elderly can decrease (due to factors like reduced kidney function), and they don't necessarily need greater hydration just from urination frequency; this is incorrect.
• Option D: Overhydration is not typical; underhydration is more of a concern, and mental lapses from overhydration are not a primary concern related to water intake recognition.
• Option E: Pressure ulcers and UTIs from high - water - content foods are not related to water intake concerns in the elderly.

Answer:

A. They may not feel thirsty or recognize dryness of the mouth