Easy Ways to Stay Hydrated After 60
Many of us feel less thirsty with age, even when the body could use a drink. Simple habits make it easy.
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Here’s something that surprised me: many of us feel less thirsty as we get older, even when the body could use a drink. So the old rule of "drink when you’re thirsty" doesn’t always work as well as it used to.
Water helps your body do a lot of everyday jobs, from keeping your temperature steady to helping digestion. Mild dehydration can leave you feeling tired, light-headed or a little foggy. The fix is simple: build a few habits that keep fluids coming in without having to think about it.
1. Keep it in sight
Out of sight, out of mind. Keep a glass or a favorite water bottle where you spend your time: next to your chair, on the kitchen counter, by the bed. Seeing it is often enough of a reminder.
Some people like a large bottle with time markings on the side. Others refill the same glass every time they walk past the sink.
2. Pair it with things you already do
Tie a glass of water to habits you already have:
- One glass with each meal
- A few sips whenever you take your medicines (unless your doctor says otherwise)
- A glass after your morning walk or exercise
- A cup of tea in the afternoon
3. Eat your water
You don’t have to drink it all. Plenty of foods are mostly water:
- Soups and broths
- Melon, oranges, grapes and berries
- Cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce and celery
- Yogurt and milk
Tea and coffee count too, in moderation.
Try this today
- Put a full glass of water by your chair tonight.
- Drink it with breakfast tomorrow, and refill it right away.
- Keep refilling it after each meal for a week.
Signs you might need more
Dark yellow urine, a dry mouth, headaches, dizziness when you stand, or unusual tiredness can all be signs you’re running low. Hot weather, a fever or an upset stomach raise your needs too.
Some medicines and health conditions, like heart or kidney disease, change how much fluid is right for you. If your doctor has given you a fluid limit, follow it. When in doubt, ask.
What’s your favorite way to drink more water? Plain, with a slice of lemon, or disguised as iced tea?