Hospital
Ensure that the hospitalized older adult has access to something to drink at all times. Offer fluids regularly,
as the older adult may not experience thirst and therefore may not help himself. A water pitcher that is untouched at the end of the shift tells you much about the hydration habits of the older person in your care. Minimizing fasting times for surgery and diagnostic procedures is also important. In the ED, when appropriate, provide food and fluids to older adults who must wait longer than two hours.