What symptom is commonly associated with dehydration in older adults?

Dry mouth is a commonly associated symptom of dehydration in older adults. As the body loses fluids, one of the first areas to show signs is the mucous membranes, including those in the mouth. When dehydration occurs, saliva production decreases, leading to a dry or sticky feeling in the mouth. This symptom can be particularly evident in older adults, who may already have other risk factors for dehydration, such as reduced thirst sensation or medication side effects that contribute to fluid loss.

Increased hunger is less specific to dehydration and may not indicate fluid status. Redness of the skin is more often related to inflammation or injury rather than to fluid levels. Fever typically suggests an infection or illness rather than dehydration alone, so it does not directly relate to the body’s fluid balance.