How To Protect Elderly From UTI Infections
Seniors are more prone to urinary tract infections due to weakened immune systems than other populations.
Left untreated, UTIs can cause major health issues - such as chronic or acute kidney infections, which could lead to kidney failure.Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria infects the urethra, bladder or kidneys. Common symptoms of urinary tract infections include bloody urine, strong or foul-smelling urine, a frequent need to urinate, pain during urination, low-grade fever or night sweats.
Elderly patients, however, may not have any of the hallmark symptoms of UTIs. That’s why it’s important that caregivers watch for other warning signs, such as: confusion or delirium, agitation, hallucinations, poor motor skills, dizziness or falling.There are several conditions that make elderly patients more susceptible to UTIS, including diabetes, enlarged prostate, surgery and kidney stones, among others.
Three Reasons that tend to lead to a UTI are that they do not drink enough fluids, Hygiene (sometimes difficulty to take care of themselves) and not being active enough. Dementia patients sometimes not to feel anything and that means that they may not know that there is an infection.It’s important that caregivers are aware of the warning signs of UTIs in the elderly and know how to handle it. Seniors can reduce the chance they will get a urinary tract infection by drinking plenty of water and cranberry juice, limiting caffeine, wearing breathable cotton underwear and by taking precautions to reduce infections when in the restroom.
When people age, the way that they interact with their bodies changes, sometimes they are not able to feel the changes happening. A family member or caregiver will be more in-tune with those changes and can bring up areas that may need additional attention. Better health for the elderly is driven by better care.
At Visiting Angels, we are experts at helping independent-minded individuals stay at home while taking care of them and ensuring they are safe and comfortable. Our senior care services help seniors stay at home without placing burden on family members who may have other obligations like work, childcare and volunteering.
To learn more about our in-home respite care for seniors, adults and their caregivers, call Visiting Angels in Asheville today!