In summary, the important body mechanisms used to regulate body water content are
compromised with aging. The capacity to respond to dehydration and retain water is limited
while thirst sensations, and thus the drive to replace fluid, is also reduced with aging. In
addition, other factors associated with aging can exacerbate this problem. For example,
hormonal changes associated with menopause, the occurrence of chronic medical
conditions (e.g. hypertension), the use of certain medications or behavior adjustments to
solve urinary incontinence problems, can increase the risk of water imbalance in older
individuals. Older individuals and their families must be aware of the age-related changes in
hydrational needs in an effort to reduce the risk or prevent disturbances in fluid balance.