Define Fluid and Electrolytes requirements in elderly?
Care lo be taken that adequate fluid be given to the elderly. If patient is unable to take the required daily needs, then formulated nutritional supplements could be given if oral intake is poor.
If taking orally (supplemented feed), should take care regarding the following:
- Correct flavour of feed
- To be given in between meals; approximately 1 hour before meals
- In case of malabsorption syndromes, hydrolyzed preparations given. .
Vitamins and trace elements: Decreased gastric secretion, absorption interaction with medication may increase certain vitamin and trace elements requirement. For e.g. calcium, vitamin. A, C, D, E, B6, and zinc requirements.