Age and ageing
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Older adults are susceptible to dehydration due to age-related pathophysiological changes. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of hyperosmolar dehydration (HD) in hospitalised older adults, aged ≥65 years, admitted as an emergency and to assess the impact on short-term and long-term outcome. ⋯ HD is common in hospitalised older adults and is associated with poor outcome. Coordinated efforts are necessary to develop comprehensive hydration assessment tools to implement and monitor a real change in culture and attitude towards hydration in hospitalised older adults.