Senior Care Nutrition and Hydration 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How many glasses of fluid per day are typically recommended for older adults to prevent dehydration?
- 2–3 glasses
- 4–5 glasses
- 6–8 glasses (approximately 1.5–2 liters) (Correct answer)
- 10–12 glasses
Correct answer: 6–8 glasses (approximately 1.5–2 liters)
Most adults, including seniors, require 6–8 glasses (1.5–2 liters) of fluid daily to maintain proper hydration.
Question 2: Which of the following is an early sign of dehydration in a senior?
- Increased urine output
- Dark yellow or amber-colored urine (Correct answer)
- Swollen ankles
- High blood pressure
Correct answer: Dark yellow or amber-colored urine
Dark-colored urine indicates concentrated urine, one of the earliest signs that the body needs more fluid.
Question 3: Why do older adults have a higher risk of dehydration compared to younger adults?
- They drink more coffee and alcohol
- They have a diminished sense of thirst and reduced kidney efficiency (Correct answer)
- They sweat more due to poor thermoregulation
- They eat more salty foods
Correct answer: They have a diminished sense of thirst and reduced kidney efficiency
Aging reduces thirst sensation and kidney concentrating ability, making seniors less likely to drink enough fluid.
Question 4: A resident has been prescribed a thickened-liquid diet. What is the most likely reason?
- The resident has diabetes and needs to slow glucose absorption
- The resident has dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and is at risk for aspiration (Correct answer)
- The resident has a lactose intolerance
- The resident prefers smoothies over regular beverages
Correct answer: The resident has dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and is at risk for aspiration
Thickened liquids move more slowly and are easier to control during swallowing, reducing the risk of aspiration in dysphagia.
Question 5: Which nutrient is most important for wound healing in seniors with pressure injuries?
- Simple carbohydrates
- Protein (Correct answer)
- Sodium
- Saturated fat
Correct answer: Protein
Protein is essential for tissue repair and immune function, making adequate intake critical for wound healing.
Question 6: What is the best action when a resident with dementia refuses to eat?
- Force feeding to prevent malnutrition
- Offer small frequent meals, finger foods, and favorite foods in a calm environment (Correct answer)
- Skip the meal and document the refusal only
- Increase the portion size at the next meal
Correct answer: Offer small frequent meals, finger foods, and favorite foods in a calm environment
Adapting meal presentation, timing, and environment is more effective and dignified than forcing food on a resident with dementia.
Senior Care Nutrition and Hydration 1
How many glasses of fluid per day are typically recommended for older adults to prevent dehydration?