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The Dangers of Urinary Tract Infections in Senior People

Our senior loved ones experience a lot of changes as they age, and some of these changes can be too fast to keep up with. While wrinkles and age spots are mostly harmless visible symptoms of aging, there are many other changes to the body and mind that are much more severe.
A weakened immune system and memory loss are two common changes that senior individuals face. But did you know that these could possibly be the symptoms of dementia urinary tract infection as well? Let’s discuss.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection?

A Urinary Tract Infection, or UTI, is a bacterial infection which starts in the urethra and eventually makes its way up to the kidneys. It’s vital to take care of the infection before it becomes a part of the circulatory system as it can lead to sepsis otherwise. The fact that they are easily treatable can be taken as good news, but the symptoms can also be very similar to those of dementia, so one has to make sure to not confuse the two, especially because they tend to be more common among senior people.

What are some of the symptoms?

A burning sensation while urinating, feeling exhausted and fatigued, and pain in the back and side are some of the general symptoms that anyone who contracts the infection faces. But these symptoms are regularly experienced by old people due to old age as well, so it can be a little difficult to discern the change in circumstances.

Importance of staying vigilant

Among senior people, one of the warning signs of a UTI is an abrupt change in behaviour. They can experience mild confusion and the inability to perform daily tasks. Even though it’s a common infection, it requires close attention by whoever is responsible for the care and support of the elderly person. For someone who lives with dementia, it can cause more stress and possibly make their dementia worse. This requires immediate attendance by the caregiver.

What can you do?

To minimize the risk of a UTI for your senior loved one, you can take a number of steps. You have to pay extra attention to encourage them to increase their fluid intake and monitor it closely.  Elder people have to be continually reminded to take bathroom breaks every two to three hours, so they can relieve themselves. Increased bathroom use reduces the risk of contracting a UTI. You can also make sure that they’re maintaining good hygiene and take daily showers. It requires extra time and plenty of care.

At AvantGarde in Encino, California, our compassionate caretakers are professionally trained to assist your senior loved ones with dementia. We make sure we give your loved ones undivided attention so they can lead comfortable lives fully. Reach out to us for more information at (818) 881-0055.

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