UTI Awareness for Berks County Seniors

Urinary tract infections may look different in older adults.

Why Is UTI Awareness Important for Seniors?

National Senior UTI Awareness Day was inspired by Daisy Jackson, who unfortunately passed away on October 24, 2019, due to repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) that eventually led to sepsis. UTIs can affect the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys, causing uncomfortable symptoms that can lead to serious problems. If left untreated, UTIs can result in bladder infections, kidney infections, and organ failure. In Daisy’s case, her repeated UTIs went untreated for too long, and she developed sepsis.

Sepsis is a medical emergency that occurs when the body has an extreme response to an infection, such as a UTI. It can cause serious damage to tissue and organs, or even death. Since adults aged 65 and older are at higher risk of developing an infection, they are also at higher risk of developing sepsis. Urinary and bowel incontinence, prostate inflammation, constipation, cognitive impairments, catheter use, and malnutrition are some examples of risk factors that increase the risk of infection in older adults.

At Griswold, we know how valuable it is to have peace of mind that your aging loved one is safe and infection-free. In honor of National Senior UTI Awareness Day, we’re here to share signs to watch for, tips to help prevent them, and information about how we can help.

What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?

UTIs can cause symptoms like pain when urinating or discomfort in the pelvic area. Symptoms may depend on which area of the bladder has been infected. Those with a kidney infection may experience back or side pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. A bladder infection may cause various symptoms, such as frequent urination or blood in the urine.

For older adults, symptoms may differ. Here are some atypical symptoms to watch for:

• Lethargy
• Confusion
• Delirium
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• New urinary incontinence
• Low blood pressure
• Fast heartbeat

It is possible for UTIs in older adults to be missed or mistaken for other conditions, but if you or a loved one have symptoms, contact your doctor to be safe.

How Can I Prevent UTIs?

Use these tips to help prevent UTIs:

• It is important to urinate when you feel the urge instead of holding it for later to prevent bacterial growth. This also helps to prevent the bladder from getting weak.
• Choose underwear made of breathable material, like cotton.
• Ask your doctor for a probiotic recommendation and eat foods like yogurt that contain probiotics.
• Vaginal estrogen can support vaginal microbiome health for those in postmenopause who experience recurrent UTIs.

If you’re trying to help prevent UTIs in someone with dementia, make sure their drinks are visible and easy to access. You can give them a brightly colored cup or bottle and encourage them to use the bathroom regularly.

If you’re looking for care management options to ensure your loved one has everything they need, the Berks County Area on Aging can help. Their services and programs aid families and individuals over the age of 60. Offerings include senior center services, support for caregivers, protective services, and more.

Can Griswold Caregivers Help Monitor UTI Symptoms?

Our Caregivers are here to help you and your loved ones with options that best meet your needs. Through in-home care services like Companionship, Personal Care, and Homemaking, we can monitor UTI symptoms and help prevent them from getting worse. Our team would be happy to provide hydration reminders and assist with general hygiene. Additionally, we offer 24-Hour Care for those with full-time needs. Located in Wyomissing, we proudly serve the Berks County community. Give us a call to learn more today!