CHAPTER 97 • THE GERIATRIC ATHLETE 571- The U.S.A. Track and Field Advisory Panel recently
made recommendations as to proper hydration during
track and field events. These recommendations would
probably meet the standards of any sporting event
(Casa, 2003).- Thirst should be used as an indicator of dehydra-
tion during a sporting event. Since older adults in
general have a decreased thirst mechanism, it is
incumbent on the health care provider to educate
the older athlete about replacing fluids when the
sensation of thirst is perceived. Because of the
blunting of the thirst mechanism a rule of thumb
for fluid replacement is to consume two cups of
water before exercise and about 200–400 mL of
water for every 20–30 min of activity (Rock,
1991). Fluid replacement with solutions contain-
ing 4–10% carbohydrate may enhance perform-
ance for older athletes participating in endurance
events. - The older athlete needs to understand the effects of
overhydration—resulting in exertional hypona-
tremia (serum Na <130 mmol/L) especially if the
individual is also on a low salt diet. The older ath-
lete should be made aware that this condition is
more common in sporting events lasting longer
than 4 h (marathons), low-intensity endurance
events, and by drinking large volumes of water
without adequate sodium replacement.
- Thirst should be used as an indicator of dehydra-
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Calorie Requirements:
•< 50 years ol age: 2300 Kcal for 77 kg male and 1900 Kcal for
65 kg female.
- 51–75 years of age: 2070 Kcal for men and 1710 Kcal for women
75 years of age 1800 Kcal for men and 1500 Kcal for women
Protein: 0.8 to 1 g/kg/day or about 12–14% of total calories;
1.0–1.5 g protein/day athletes
Dietary carbohydrate: 50 and 100 g/day (55 to 60% of total
calories); 60–70% of total calories for endurance athletes.
Fat: 30% or less of calories with 10% saturated and 10–15%
monounsaturated and nor more than 10% polyunsaturated (liquids
at room temperature).
Dietary cholesterol: 300 mg or less per day
Fiber: 25 g/day.