Where's the water?

Many frail older adults are at risk for dehydration. Providing enough water to the older adult is a challenge, as decreased thirst may limit beverage intake. Water comes in many forms, in beverages, but also in foods. When food intake decreases, so does water intake. Encouraging food and beverage intake are important in preventing dehydration in frail older adults.

Foods vary widely in water content. You may be surprised to find out that many common foods that are not liquids are quite high in water! Continue to Table 2 to learn more.

Where's the water? Answer Key

Table 2. 

Which of the following is higher in percent water content? (Answer Key: percent water content per single serving)
Peanut Butter	2	94	Ketchup
Cooked Carrots	91	83	Cranberry Juice
Cottage Cheese	79	76	Apple Sauce
Roasted Chicken	71	53	Pork Chop
Mashed Potatoes	83	72	Pasta
Chocolate Pudding	69	10	Chocolate Brownie
% water content

View Table

Tips for readers:

• Frail older adults are encouraged to drink milk and other nutrient-rich beverages between meals.
• Encourage three servings of fruit and fruit juice each day.