Hydration Interventions

A small cluster-randomised feasibility trial of a multicomponent hydration intervention found it feasible and acceptable, but no definitive follow-up trial has been conducted. A 2003 review of oral hydration maintenance in older adults found poor research evidence, and hydration management has changed substantially since, particularly after the 2009 NCEPOD report. A review of evidence on preventing urinary tract infections in care homes identified prioritising hydration and systems that prompt staff action as relevant implementation mechanisms. Proposed strategies to maintain hydration in care homes include regular toileting, regular offering of drinks, offering preferred drinks, and offering foods with high fluid content such as soup. Educational packages for care home staff are proposed to reduce barriers to hydration, based on the premise that staff education may improve fluid intake by residents.