TAKING AIM: What to know about UTI among seniors with dementia

TAKING AIM: What to know about UTI among seniors with dementia

Bouts with urinary tract infections are frustrating and uncomfortable, as it is, for younger people. Imagine how challenging it can be for seniors with dementia.

WebMD explains urinary tract infections (UTIs) as bacterial infections in the urinary system “that are very common and usually not serious, though there can be exceptions.” Experts say that UTIs are actually the second most common infection

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Here are a few things to know about UTIs and how it affects seniors living with dementia:

Women are more likely to suffer from UTI than men. Sadly, anatomy plays a crucial role in the occurrence of UTI. “The tube that goes from the bladder to the outside (the urethra) is much shorter than in men. Because the urethral opening is closer to the anus in women, it’s easier for bacteria from stool to get into their urethra,” Web MD explains.

Almost 11 million seniors in America were reported to have suffered from UTI. Among the elderly, more than a third of all infections among people in nursing homes are UTIs. In fact, UTIs accounted for about 10.5 million doctor consultations in the United States back in 2007.

Dehydration is also one thing you should take note of. Lack of sufficient water intake often leads to dehydration among seniors with dementia. Encouraging them to get the recommended fluid consumption between morning and early afternoon will be a good idea, so they won’t be bothered to get up for frequent trips to the bathroom at night.

UTI can trigger sudden confusion for people with dementia. The discomfort caused by UTI often leads to sudden, unexplained behavior change among people with dementia. Also known as “delirium,” symptoms often manifest as increased confusion, agitation, or withdrawal.

“The person may not be able to communicate how they feel, therefore it is helpful to be familiar with the symptoms of UTIs and seek medical help to ensure they get the correct treatment. It is also important to be aware that any infection could speed up the progression of dementia and so all infections should be identified and treated quickly,” Alzheimer’s Society writes in one of their reference materials.

UTI and dementia are often linked together, and the risk for the former increases significantly with age.

Our Memory Care Specialists at GCS undergo rigorous training to make sure that seniors with dementia under their care can live their life normally and free from other worries, including UTI, as much as possible. Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to discuss with you how we can help give your loved ones the kind of care they deserve.

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