Linda, aged 70 from Milton Keynes

Why did you sign up to Take Five?

One day, I got an email from the Open University through the alumni department and I thought it sounded interesting. I struggle to drink enough liquids and so the hydration aspect really appealed to give me the impetus to up my fluids! I’m from the Caribbean so you might think, I’d drink lots of water but I never have done.

And how has Take Five worked for you?

It's been great – here’s the evidence – my 1.2 litre water bottle that I have with me every day. I’ve gone from drinking 2-3 cups a day to 2 litres and I can tell I’m better hydrated as my skin feels less dry. It’s now three months after the end of the official Take Five campaign but I am still doing my action and drinking the water everyday.

How did you find the emails?

I read the emails and went on the website to look at the other resources -  I'm always interested in finding out the latest evidence based information – I knew some of the things discussed but there are always new findings and new advice and sometimes I’d read and have a moment of ‘oh, I didn’t know that’.

So, do you think Take Five is a good idea?

I think we all need a little, a little, a little oomph, you know, every now and again and the information as to why or how, which Take Five provides. For me, it has helped me drink more fluid and I feel better for it and it has also reminded me of the things to focus on to try and stay healthy for as long as possible. It has provided a sort of tick list. Next time. I’ll use your report to try and convince my husband to take part as I think he would also benefit!