Which sign would indicate possible dehydration in an elderly client?

Dry mucous membranes serve as a significant indicator of possible dehydration, especially in elderly clients. As people age, their body's ability to maintain hydration diminishes, making them more susceptible to dehydration. When the body is not adequately hydrated, moisture in the mucous membranes of the mouth and other areas decreases, leading to dryness. This is a visible and physical sign that health care providers can assess during examinations.

Clear urine output typically suggests good hydration levels, as dilute urine indicates that the body is receiving adequate fluids. Frequent urination may occur for various reasons but does not directly indicate dehydration; in fact, it could be a sign of adequate hydration or an underlying medical issue. A stable weight does not provide any insight into hydration status; individuals can maintain weight while still being dehydrated or overhydrated, and weight changes would be needed to diagnose fluid imbalance. Thus, the presence of dry mucous membranes is a strong signal indicating the risk of dehydration in elderly clients.