How Much Water Should an Elderly Person Drink a Day?

Staying hydrated is essential to being healthy and active, but it can sometimes be more difficult as we get older. Many elderly adults struggle to maintain adequate fluid intake, putting them at risk for serious health complications. 

This is because age-related changes in the body affect how we process and retain fluids. With diminished thirst sensation and multiple health factors affecting fluid needs, seniors need specific guidance to maintain proper hydration throughout the day.

Key takeaways

• Elderly adults should aim for 6-8 cups of fluid daily, with the general guideline being approximately half an ounce of water per pound of body weight.

• Age-related changes like decreased kidney function, reduced thirst sensation, and certain medications significantly increase dehydration risk in seniors.

• Early signs of dehydration include dark urine, fatigue, and dry mouth, while severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.

How much water should seniors drink? 

The daily water needs of elderly adults vary based on individual factors, but general guidelines provide a helpful starting point for maintaining proper hydration.

According to medical experts, elderly adults should consume approximately six to eight cups (48-64 ounces) of fluid daily. The Cleveland Clinic recommends eight glasses of eight ounces of water daily, and others recommend getting at least half an ounce for every pound of body weight. For example, someone weighing 160 pounds would need about 80 ounces (10 cups) of water daily.

Here's a helpful reference table for daily fluid intake based on body weight:

It's important to consult with your healthcare provider about your specific hydration needs, especially if you have chronic conditions or take medications that affect fluid balance. They can help you determine what’s essential for you or your loved one to stay happy and healthy. 

Why elderly adults are at higher risk for dehydration

Several age-related and lifestyle factors make seniors particularly vulnerable to dehydration, requiring increased attention to fluid intake.

Age-related changes

Body composition changes result in elderly adults having less total body water compared to younger individuals. According to the Cleveland Clinic, older adults have reduced fluid reserves and decreased kidney function, which affects the body's ability to conserve water.

The natural aging process also diminishes thirst sensation, meaning seniors may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need fluids. This reduced thirst response can prevent adequate fluid replacement, leading to gradual dehydration over time.

Medications

Many common medications taken by elderly adults can increase dehydration risk. Diuretics, often prescribed for high blood pressure or heart conditions, increase water loss through urination. Other medications, including some antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, can have dehydrating effects.

The Mayo Clinic notes that medication interactions and side effects can compound dehydration risk, making it essential for seniors to discuss their medication regimen with healthcare providers and adjust fluid intake accordingly.

Lifestyle factors

Physical limitations can make it difficult for some seniors to access water independently, leading to reduced fluid intake. If they struggle to move around their home easily due to arthritis or mobility issues, for example, they may choose to skip a glass or two of water because it seems easier.  

Fear of incontinence may also cause some elderly adults to deliberately limit fluid consumption, particularly in the evening hours. 

Additionally, swallowing difficulties, common in some seniors, can make adequate fluid intake more challenging and require modified approaches to hydration.

Signs of dehydration in seniors

Recognizing dehydration symptoms in elderly adults is crucial because the signs may be subtle or mistaken for other age-related changes. Understanding these dehydration risks and symptoms in older adults can help prevent serious complications.

Early warning signs

The first signs of dehydration in seniors include increased thirst, though this may be less noticeable due to age-related changes in thirst sensation. 

Other early indicators include:

• Dark-colored urine (darker than pale yellow).

• Decreased urination frequency.

• Dry mouth or throat.

• Headaches.

• Muscle cramps.

• Fatigue.

• Weakness

• Mild dizziness or lightheadedness.

 A simple skin test can help detect dehydration. Pinch the skin on the back of the hand and observe how quickly it returns to normal. If the skin remains tented for more than a second, this may indicate dehydration.

Severe dehydration symptoms

More serious dehydration symptoms require immediate attention and may include:

• Confusion

• Disorientation

• Unusual irritability. 

• Rapid heart rate.

• Low blood pressure.

• Little to no urination.

• Extreme fatigue.

• Dizziness.

• Sunken eyes or cheeks. 

When to seek medical attention

Seek immediate medical care if an elderly person shows signs of severe dehydration, including. Call emergency services if someone experiences confusion, fainting, rapid breathing, or heart palpitations.

Moderate dehydration may require medical evaluation, especially if symptoms persist despite increased fluid intake. Healthcare providers can assess hydration status through blood tests and provide IV fluids if necessary.

Tips for staying hydrated

Maintaining proper hydration requires consistent effort and smart strategies tailored to senior needs and preferences.

• Start your day with water: Start each day with a glass of water to begin rehydration after the overnight period. 

• Keep water easily accessible. Carry a reusable water bottle or keep a cup nearby throughout the day. This visual reminder encourages regular sipping.

• Make water more appealing. Add fresh fruit slices, cucumber, or herbs for natural flavor. Some seniors find it easier to drink flavored water or herbal teas rather than plain water.

• Include water-rich foods in your diet. Watermelon, cucumbers, soups, and smoothies are all great examples. These foods contribute to daily fluid intake while providing additional nutrition.

• Set regular reminders to drink fluids. Having water with each meal and medication time, for example, is a trigger. This creates a routine that ensures consistent fluid intake throughout the day.

• During hot weather, increase fluid intake proactively rather than waiting to feel thirsty. Air conditioning and fans can help reduce fluid loss through sweating, but adequate hydration remains essential.

• Limit alcohol and excessive caffeine. Both can have dehydrating effects. While moderate amounts of coffee and tea can contribute to fluid intake, they shouldn't be the primary source of hydration.

For seniors with swallowing difficulties, consider thickened liquids or frozen treats like popsicles made from fruit juice. Consult with a speech therapist or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Bottom line

Proper hydration is essential for healthy aging, but elderly adults face unique challenges in maintaining adequate fluid intake. Most seniors should aim for 6-8 cups of fluid daily, though individual needs may vary based on health conditions, medications, and activity levels.

The key to successful hydration is making it a daily priority through consistent habits and awareness of individual risk factors. Keep water easily accessible, recognize early warning signs of dehydration, and don't hesitate to seek medical advice when needed.

Remember that hydration needs may increase during illness, hot weather, or when taking certain medications. Work with your healthcare provider to determine the right fluid intake goals for your specific situation and health status.

FAQs 

How much water should a 70-year-old drink daily?

A 70-year-old should generally drink 6-8 cups (48-64 ounces) of fluid daily, following the guideline of approximately half an ounce per pound of body weight. However, individual needs may vary based on health conditions, medications, and activity level, so it's best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Can elderly people drink too much water?

Yes, drinking excessive amounts of water can lead to water intoxication or hyponatremia (low sodium levels), which can be dangerous. Seniors with certain heart or kidney conditions may need fluid restrictions. Always consult healthcare providers about appropriate fluid intake levels.

What counts toward daily fluid intake for seniors?

Most beverages count toward fluid intake, including water, milk, juice, coffee, tea, and soups. Water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables also contribute. However, alcohol and excessive caffeine should be limited, as they can have dehydrating effects.

Sources

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, May 30). The Connection Between Age and Dehydration Risk. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/drink-up-dehydration-is-an-often-overlooked-health-risk-for-seniors

Mayo Clinic. (2025, May 2). Dehydration: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086

Mayo Clinic Health System. (2024, Aug 16). Tips for drinking more water. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/tips-for-drinking-more-water

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2023, Jun 2). Hydration Status in Older Adults: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10255140/

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020, Nov 4). Fluid Intake Recommendation Considering the Physiological Adaptations of Adults Over 65 Years. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7694182/

National Council on Aging. (2024, Mar 18). How to Stay Hydrated: A Guide for Older Adults. Retrieved from https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-to-stay-hydrated-for-better-health/

Oak Street Health. (2025, Jul 12). How Much Water To Drink A Day For Older Adults. Retrieved from https://www.oakstreethealth.com/how-much-water-to-drink-a-day-for-older-adults-937512