Preventing UTIs in Vancouver Seniors

We’re honoring Senior UTI Awareness throughout October.

UTIs in Older Adults

National Senior UTI Awareness Day is coming up on Friday, October 24. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most diagnosed infections in older adults, possibly affecting the urethra, ureters, bladder, and kidneys. If bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra, they can spread and cause UTIs.

The risk of developing a UTI increases as you age. We all have good bacteria in our bodies working to fight off bad bacteria that cause infections like UTIs. Aging can impact the good bacteria’s ability to fight off the bad. Additionally, aging adults may lose strength in their bladder and pelvic floor muscles. This makes it harder to empty the bladder completely, leading to urinary retention. An enlarged prostate can cause this as well. When stagnant urine is left behind in the bladder, bacteria may be able to grow. Also, those in postmenopause are at the highest risk of developing UTIs because this is when estrogen levels drop. Estrogen is important to help prevent bad bacteria growth.

Luckily, there are many ways to prevent UTIs. Below you can explore common signs and symptoms, prevention tips, and information about Griswold Care Plus, our 24/7 virtual monitoring technology.

UTI Signs to Watch For

Common symptoms associated with UTIs are a more frequent and urgent need to urinate, discomfort when urinating, pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis, cloudy, thick, or discolored urine, and urinary retention. Older adults are more likely to have atypical UTI symptoms like delirium, confusion, and appetite loss. If your loved one is showing signs of confusion, their doctor may check for a UTI, but confusion alone doesn’t automatically mean an older adult has a UTI.

There are several ways to reduce the risk of getting a UTI:

• Drink enough water to dilute harmful bacteria and flush it out
• Wipe from front to back to clean yourself after using the bathroom
• Use the bathroom when you feel the urge to go – don’t hold it

If you think you or someone you know has a UTI, visit a doctor sooner rather than later. When UTIs are left untreated, they can lead to bladder and kidney infections, sepsis, and organ failure. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with a UTI, continue hydrating and use the bathroom every few hours. If you are prescribed an antibiotic, make sure to finish the entire prescribed dose.

Are you looking for a geriatric care manager in the Vancouver area? The Legacy Medical Group – Geriatrics at Salmon Creek is a department of the medical center at Legacy Salmon Creek. Their team of providers offers services like geriatric assessment clinics, geriatric psychiatry, and more.

24/7 Peace of Mind: Griswold Care Plus

Are you worried that your loved one might be experiencing UTI symptoms when you or their Caregiver can’t be present? We’re happy to offer 24/7 care coverage through Griswold Care Plus. This always-on virtual monitoring system can detect falls, physical distress, calls for help, and early signs of cognitive decline. If your loved one calls out because they are in pain or confused, this technology will pick up their audio and alert you immediately. No wearables are needed.

At Griswold, Care is Personal. When you combine this state-of-the-art technology with our compassionate in-home care services, you can live with peace of mind that your loved one is safe, even when you’re away. We are proud to offer services like Companionship, Personal Care, Homemaking, 24-Hour Care, and more. We would be happy to create a personalized care plan for you or a loved one. Give us a call today!