Resources to Prevent UTIs in Older Adults

In honor of National Senior UTI Awareness Day, we’re discussing signs, symptoms, and resources to help prevent UTIs.

UTI Risks in Seniors

The urinary tract includes the urethra, ureters, bladder, and kidneys. Bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and spread to the bladder and kidneys, resulting in a urinary tract infection (UTI). The bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the primary cause of UTIs. However, other bacteria like Enterococci and Staphylococci are common in nursing homes and other full-time care facilities, as well as with catheter use.

The risk of experiencing a UTI increases with age. Conditions that commonly affect older adults, like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes, can contribute to urinary retention and neurogenic bladder. Both increase the risk of UTIs.

Other risk factors include a history of UTIs, a prolapsed bladder, bladder and bowel incontinence, and postmenopause. Estrogen can help protect the urinary tract from bacterial growth, but during postmenopause, estrogen decreases, so bacteria may be able to grow. For those assigned male at birth (AMAB), risk factors may include a bladder or kidney stone, an enlarged prostate, or bacterial prostatitis (a chronic infection of the prostate).

UTI Signs & Symptoms

When older adults develop UTIs, they may not always experience the symptoms commonly associated with the infection. Common symptoms include burning pain and frequent urination, but older adults may experience behavior-related symptoms like confusion instead. This is especially true for those with dementia. Seniors may be unable to communicate that they are experiencing symptoms, so here are some atypical signs to monitor:

• Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control)
• Urinary retention (bladder doesn’t empty completely)
• Fatigue and lack of motivation
• Decreased mobility
• Decreased appetite
• Agitation
• Falls

If the infection spreads to the kidneys, symptoms may be more severe. Watch for signs of fever, flushed skin, back pain, nausea, and vomiting.

UTI Prevention Tips

Use these tips to reduce the risk of UTIs:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Avoid consuming bladder irritants like alcohol and caffeine
• Urinate as soon as you feel the urge to, and empty all urine when using the bathroom
• Wipe from front to back to clean yourself after using the bathroom
• Change incontinence pads and underwear frequently, especially when wet

If you’re looking for help with geriatric care, there are options right here in Delaware County! Katherine Rosenblatt, MSW, LMSW, CDCP, has worked as a Geriatric Care Manager for the past 10 years at Professional Daughter for Hire, LLC. Additionally, Suhailah-Anderson White, PCHA, CDP, is a Care Manager on Generations Crossroads’ Geriatric Care Team.

Also, pharmacies like CVS and online shopping sites like Amazon offer home UTI tests for purchase. Check out this 3-count package of CVS Urinary Tract Infection Test Strips.

Griswold Caregivers Can Help

At Griswold, our Caregivers are here for you. Through in-home care services like Personal Care, Companionship, and Homemaking, your Griswold Caregiver can help look out for symptoms associated with UTIs. Additionally, Care Professionals can provide hydration reminders and assistance with toileting and bathing, helping to mitigate risk. Located in Havertown, we serve all regions throughout Delaware County (Delco). We’d be happy to create a personalized care plan for you! Give us a call today.