Reviewed by Mary Merheim
Are you worried your elder parent or relative isn’t drinking enough water? It’s a common concern.
Dehydration is not unusual in older adults, but it can have serious consequences. Many drink less because they are worried about choking (aspiration) and toilet accidents. Factors like reduced thirst, mobility issues, and memory problems also make it hard to stay hydrated.
Keep in mind that drinking lots of water is a relatively modern health habit. Many older people simply didn’t grow up with the message ‘drink more water’ drummed into them – it just wasn’t part of daily life in the way it is now. And many just don’t like water!
All fluids count – and so do many foods. Here are a few clever tricks you can use to support their daily hydration.
Important: If your parent has ever choked or coughed while drinking (when fluid goes down the wrong way), they might be understandably nervous about it happening again. This can make them avoid drinking altogether. If that’s the case, don’t push water. Milkier, thicker drinks – like smoothies or shakes – are often easier and safer to swallow than thin fluids like plain water, which can slip down the wrong way more easily.
Start strong in the morning
Encourage them to have a drink soon after waking – whether it’s water, tea, milk, or another fluid they enjoy. Morning is often the easiest time to build a habit, and it helps set a good hydration baseline for the rest of the day.
Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon
If they’re happy drinking water, try adding a tiny pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon to that first glass. It’s a simple way to support electrolyte balance and help the body absorb fluids more effectively – especially important for older adults.
Add fluids through food
Hydration doesn’t just come from drinking. Many fruits and vegetables have high water content. Add more of these to their diet:
- Watermelon
- Cucumber
- Celery
- Oranges
- Tomatoes
Wet meals like soups, stews, porridge, yoghurt and pureed fruit are also fantastic – especially in cooler weather when drinking cold water is less appealing. Jelly is also a brilliant hydrator for those who struggle with drinking liquids, and if you can get them, specially designed hydration products like Jelly Drops can help too. Add more milk to cereal, serve custard with dessert and use extra sauce or gravy.
Boost absorption with electrolytes
You can add electrolyte hydration sachets – which you can buy from the pharmacy – to drinks like smoothies, juice, or even jelly. These help the body absorb fluids more effectively, making each sip count even more.
Make fluids more appealing
If they find plain water boring or just don’t like the taste, try these alternatives:
- Infused water – add slices of lemon, cucumber, or orange, or add fresh mint or a cinnamon stick for extra flavour.
- Herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile, which are hydrating and can be soothing, especially in colder weather.
- Coconut water – it’s naturally hydrating and packed with electrolytes, but make sure to choose one without added sugars.
- Diluted sugar-free squash or cordial – a flavourful option that’s still hydrating without the need for sugary drinks.
- Smoothies, decaf coffee, and juice in moderation – all count toward daily fluid intake.
Milk is also a great option – it’s hydrating, provides calcium and protein, and can be especially beneficial for older adults.
Use hydration-friendly tools
- Hydration-tracking bottles: These come with time markers and visual cues to remind you to drink throughout the day.
- Set drink-reminder alarms: A simple 3-hour timer on their phone, smart speaker or even a digital watch can prompt regular sips.
- Sticky notes on the fridge: Sometimes the simplest reminder – in their eyeline – works wonders.
Keep it within reach
Make it as easy as possible. Keep a jug or water bottle and glass close by in the living room, bedroom, or wherever they spend the most time. Avoiding unnecessary effort can remove a big barrier.
Limit dehydrating food and drink
- Highly processed foods: Often low in moisture and high in salt, which draws water out of the body.
- Caffeine and alcohol: Both are diuretics, which means they increase fluid loss. Consider decaf tea/coffee or switching to low or no-alcohol alternatives – there are excellent alcohol-free wines, beers and spirits now on the market.
In summary
Helping an elder parent or relative stay hydrated can be tricky but doesn’t have to be a battle. Think small, daily habits – making fluids enjoyable, meals hydrating, and access easy.
Not everyone likes plain water, so don’t push glasses of water if they’re reluctant – especially if they’ve had a bad experience like choking. This can lead to stress on both sides. Instead, offer fluids in ways that feel safe and comfortable – like thicker drinks or moist meals.
All fluids count – even if they come in a meal.
Common questions
- How much fluid should an older person drink each day?
Adults are often advised to aim for around 6 – 8 glasses (1.5–2 litres) of fluid daily. However, this can vary for older people depending on individual health conditions, medications, activity levels, and other factors. For example, those with kidney issues, heart conditions, or limited mobility may need a different amount. It’s always a good idea to check with a healthcare professional to determine the right amount for your parent or relative.
- What are signs of dehydration in older people?
Look out for signs like dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, or constipation. Severe dehydration can be dangerous, so if you’re concerned or notice any of these symptoms persisting, contact a GP for advice.
- What if they just refuse to drink?
Try not to push. Focus on offering appealing options (like fruit, soup or herbal teas), using visual cues, and keeping hydration low-effort. If dementia or swallowing is a factor, seek advice from a healthcare professional for tailored strategies.
