Total water and beverage intake was assessed among 206 elderly living in urban, suburban and rural areas of Warsaw region. All sources of water were taken into consideration (food, beverages, water added during meal preparation). Beverages were considered fluids consumed in a glass or a cup. The total water intake was compared with the standard. The results indicated that the total daily water intake was low and did not meet recommendations. This inadequate water intake was wide-spread among the respondents, especially among women, persons living in suburbs and rural areas, people with no education and elementary educational level, and with low income. On the average, men consumed 70% of recommended total daily water intake, while women - only 64%. Respondents consumed only about 800 g of beverages, which is less than 4 glasses per day (8 glasses are recommended by the Russel guide pyramid). The conclusion is that the total water and fluid intake should be a part of the diet record to identify individuals and population groups at risk of dehydration. It is also necessary to educate elderly as well as the members of their families and their caregivers about importance of the adequate daily fluid intake.