Which of the following is a common sign of dehydration in elderly patients?

Dry mouth and decreased urine output are indicative of dehydration, especially in elderly patients. As individuals age, their bodies lose the ability to conserve water effectively, making them more susceptible to dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, saliva production decreases, leading to a dry mouth. Additionally, because the kidneys are trying to concentrate urine to conserve water, urine output tends to decrease.

In contrast, signs like increased appetite, frequent headaches, and improved skin elasticity do not align with typical indicators of dehydration. Increased appetite may actually occur for various reasons unrelated to hydration status. Frequent headaches can have multiple causes, and improved skin elasticity would suggest adequate hydration rather than dehydration. Understanding these signs is crucial for identifying dehydration and ensuring timely intervention for elderly patients.