underwatering? is it in a sunny spot?(they only like shade) and how long have you had it for?(they only live up to 3-4 years)

Hi, welcome to GoY, is it in a position where it gets a lot of cold drying wind?, this could be the cause of the browning, most Hosta's prefer a site in full or part shade, but will produce fewer flowers in full shade, the exceptions are the yellowy leaved ones, which develop better colour if grown in a sunny position, with some midday shade, what they won't stand is drought, preferring a moist but well drained, fertile soil, which should be mulched annually to preserve moisture, as for them being short lived, that is a new one on me, Derek.