[Three elderly patient cases maintained by home hypodermoclysis--a practical hydrating method performed by family members].

Hypodermoclysis, the subcutaneous infusion of fluids, has been reevaluated as a useful hydration technique for elderly patients. In the care of end-of-life elderly patients who are unable to take adequate fluids orally, hypodermoclysis is a less stressful means for patients and family than an intravenous hydration. Further more, it shortens the duration of hospitalization. We report three cases of patients who could remain at home stably for a relatively long period of time because of hypodermoclysis administered by family members.