Which of the following best describes symptoms of dehydration in older adults?

• A. Fever and rash
• B. Low blood pressure, constipation, and increased fall risk
• C. Increased appetite and euphoria
• D. High blood pressure and weight gain

Answer: (B)

Dehydration in older adults often shows up as signs of reduced circulating volume rather than the classic thirst. When fluid is lost, blood volume drops, which can lower blood pressure—especially upon standing—leading to dizziness and a higher risk of falls. The same fluid deficit also means less water is available for forming stool, so constipation becomes common. In older adults, these interrelated symptoms—lower blood pressure with orthostatic changes, constipation, and increased fall risk—tend to cluster together and alert you to dehydration. Additional cues may include dry mouth, dark urine, and confusion, but the combination of low blood pressure, constipation, and more frequent falls best captures the dehydration pattern in this population. Fever with a rash suggests infection, increased appetite and euphoria aren’t tied to dehydration, and high blood pressure with weight gain would not align with fluid loss.