Understanding and Preventing UTIs in Seniors: A Caregiver’s Guide

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by urinary tract bacteria that have entered through the urethra. With roughly 60% of women and 12% of men experiencing at least one UTI in their lifetime, they’re fairly common. Older adults are especially prone to UTIs because of their weakened immune systems, urinary catheters, or incomplete bladder emptying.

While urinary tract infections are common, that doesn’t mean they are harmless. If left untreated, UTIs can develop into more serious problems, such as bladder and, in rarer cases, kidney infections. That’s why it’s crucial for caregivers to know the symptoms of UTIs and preventative tips to reduce the likelihood of one occurring in their clients.

UTIs: What Caregivers Should Know

Caregivers need to know why seniors are more susceptible to UTIs and the symptoms that indicate one. This helps them address the issue as early as possible. Read on for this and prevention tips, as shared by the Cleveland Clinic.

Older adults are more prone to urinary tract infections because of prolapsed bladders, incontinence, and limited mobility, making using the bathroom challenging. Poor hygiene due to declining cognition or Alzheimer’s may also lead to a UTI.

Some symptoms that could indicate a potential UTI in seniors include frequent urination, pelvic pain, and discolored urine.

Prevention Tips: How Caregivers Can Reduce Seniors’ Risk

Caregivers can take several proactive measures to reduce a senior’s risk of developing a urinary tract infection. These include:

• Maintaining Proper Hygiene: Helping seniors with personal hygiene can reduce the risk of an infection. This is especially important for seniors who need bathroom assistance.
• Staying Hydrated: Caregivers can remind seniors to drink six to eight glasses of fluids per day to help flush out urinary tract bacteria.
• Scheduling Regular Bathroom Breaks: Setting up a regular bathroom schedule, including when a senior wakes up, before bedtime, and before and after meals, ensures they consistently empty their bladder.
• Keep Bedding and Clothing Dry: This minimizes bacteria growth. In-home caregivers can assist with laundry services and keep undergarments and linens hygienic.

How Visiting Angels of Tulsa Caregivers Can Assist

Helping a senior loved one stay safe and healthy at home can be a full-time job, but it’s not one you have to do alone if you’re a family caregiver in need of a break. In-home caregivers, like the ones at Visiting Angels of Tulsa, OK, can provide assistance, either part-time so you can have a respite or relieving you of your caregiving duties entirely, so that you can enjoy quality, stress-free time with your loved one instead.

In addition to the range of non-medical senior care services we offer, our Angel caregivers can help monitor for signs of discomfort or changes in behavior that may indicate a potential problem. They can also remind seniors to stay hydrated, assist with daily bathroom routines, and support personal grooming habits.

We also help seniors with meal planning and preparation, medication reminders, wandering and fall prevention, and provide companionship. We not only keep seniors healthy but comfortable, happy, and safe.

Contact us today at (918) 609-5600 for more information. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you or your loved one prevent UTIs.