More importantly, it has become increasingly clear that the ability to regulate fluid balance in
response to fluid deprivation or dehydration is compromised in older individuals. Decreased
ability to regulate water balance can adversely affect the aging population, leading to
increased risk of dysfunction, morbidity, or mortality. In addition, these problems in body
fluid regulation are often exacerbated by the presence of other chronic diseases associated
with aging, such as hypertension or cerebrovascular disease. As such, the aging population
is considered at greater risk for developing dehydration and any associated complication.