What is a classic sign that might indicate dehydration in a resident?

Dry skin is a classic sign that might indicate dehydration in a resident because when the body lacks adequate fluid, the skin loses its elasticity and moisture. This results in a dry, flaky appearance, which can be an essential indicator of a person's overall hydration status. In older adults, for instance, skin turgor, or the ability of the skin to bounce back after being pinched, often decreases as hydration diminishes, leading to a visible sign of dryness.

Frequent urination typically suggests good hydration or possibly other conditions, while fluid retention contradicts dehydration and indicates the body is holding onto excess fluid. Intense sweating may lead to dehydration if fluid is not replenished, but it is not a direct indication of the body's overall hydration level. Hence, dry skin serves as a clear and observable sign that a resident may be dehydrated.