What are the symptoms of dehydration other than feeling thirsty? Early symptoms may include dry mouth, chapped lips, stiff joints and bad breath. As dehydration worsens, people may experience headaches, fatigue, irritability and dizziness.

Certain medications and chronic conditions can worsen dehydration and its symptoms. As we age, conserving water becomes harder, leading to dehydration, according to UCLA Health.

“Older adults don’t sense thirst the same way,” said Leslie Baker, Pharm.D., BCGP, director of geriatric pharmacy services at the Sanford Center for Aging. “Match that with medications that are diuretics that cause a person to urinate more frequently, and that can lead to significant dryness.”

Some medications for high blood pressure and diabetes commonly cause an increase in urination, leading to a risk of dehydration.

The Mayo Clinic notes that dehydration can lead to long-term risks, including:

• Heatstroke or related heat injuries
• Kidney failure
• Seizures
• Low blood volume shock (hypovolemic shock)

There are additional ways to stay hydrated.

“First, it doesn’t just have to be water,” said Shelby Greene, LCSW, MSW, coordinator of clinical social services. “Check labels and avoid or enjoy in moderation drinks heavy in sugar, electrolyte drinks high in salt, as well as beverages with caffeine or alcohol, which can lead to more urination.”

Electrolyte drinks are predominantly for athletes and most people do not need additional electrolytes unless they are sweating a lot. Excessive consumption can lead to higher amounts of sodium, potassium or added sugars that can stress the kidneys.

“Eat your water,” said Baker. “Choose fruits, vegetables or even soups that can also hydrate you. This is good advice for anyone of any age as there is also the added benefit of additional nutrients.”

Fruits and vegetables high in water include cucumbers, tomatoes, celery, watermelon, grapes and strawberries.

A simple strategy is to increase water intake throughout the day.

“Carry water bottles with you or place them around your house as a visual reminder,” said Baker. “You can even fill a pitcher in the fridge with a goal of how much to drink before the end of the day.”

Drinking more water can likely cause your body to produce more urine, feeling like you are urinating more frequently. Some people may hesitate to drink more water because of concerns about bathroom access.

“Older adults often experience anxiety related to needing immediate access to a bathroom or worry about getting up throughout the night,” said Greene. “Sometimes this anxiety will impact a person’s decision to drink water throughout the day. If the fear is getting up to go in the middle of the night, stop drinking after a certain time, and if the concern is having to go while you are out, plan your routes carefully and come prepared.”

Healthy aging requires building good habits, and staying hydrated is an important part of that process. Finding routines that encourage you to drink water throughout the day can help support lifelong health.