Effect of a Hydration Management Program on Older Adults' Fluid Consumption and Dehydration Parameters: A Quasi-Experimental Study

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The purpose of the current study was to assess effects of a hydration management program on the fluid consumption and dehydration parameters (i.e., dehydration risk scores, urine specific gravity, and urine color) of older adults. The study was conducted as a pre-/post-test quasi-experimental study with a control group (intervention group: n = 42, control group: n = 37). The hydration management program applied to the intervention group was completed in 1 week. After the intervention, the knowledge and awareness of the intervention group regarding fluid consumption increased (p = 0.001). The dehydration risk score of the intervention group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p = 0.0001). There was a significant change in average 3-day water intake (p = 0.0001), urine specific gravity value (p = 0.01), and urine color scale score (p = 0.0001) in the intervention group between pre- and post-test. The hydration management program provided a significant improvement in daily water intake and dehydration risk score and increased knowledge and awareness among older adults concerning the importance of fluid intake. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(9), 40-48.].