UTIs and Behavior Changes

What do you do when a senior you love has a sudden significant change in behavior?  Those of us who work in senior care know that checking for a urinary tract infection (or a UTI) is often the best place to start. While something else may be going on, more times than not, a UTI is the cause of a sudden change in behavior. This could include paranoia, hallucinations, agitation and more. Understanding the connection between UTIs and these sudden behavioral changes in elderly adults is important for effective care and management.

What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A UTI is an infection in the urinary tract, more common in women. Bacteria entering through the urethra can spread to the rest of the tract leading to an infection. Senior adults may be more at risk for a UTI for a number of reasons. This includes muscles weakening with age, various medical conditions preventing the bladder from completely emptying, and fall risk concerns leading seniors to limit their liquid intake.

What are some of the mental symptoms someone with a UTI might exhibit?

• Agitation. A UTI may cause a senior to feel easily agitated, on edge, anxious or easily startled.
• Confusion. A senior may also seem confused including delusional thinking, or in serious cases even hallucinations.
• Fatigue. Because the body is fighting an infection, seniors with a UTI may also experience more fatigue than usual.
• Violent behavior. An older adult with no history of violent behavior may even have a violent outburst as a result of a UTI.

How to prevent a UTI?

There are a number of strategies that can lower the risk of a UTI.

• Hydration. Drinking water regularly throughout the day helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, preventing UTIs. Do whatever will encourage you or your loved one to get adequate hydration, including adding herbal tea or fruit slices to water, finding the right drinking container, etc.
• Good hygiene. This includes wiping from front to back after urination and bowel movements, urinating after sexual activity, showering instead of bathing, and avoiding scented body products. Also, avoid holding urine for long periods or straining when urinating.
• Loose clothing. Loose cotton underwear can help prevent bacterial growth and moisture buildup.

For those who struggle with recurring UTIs, a number of studies suggest that probiotics could be beneficial for preventing this.