Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second-most common type of infection among older adults. However, they often present differently than in younger people. Instead of the classic symptoms like burning during urination or frequent urination, seniors may exhibit unexpected and a broader range of behavioral symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other conditions.
Some of the behavioral symptoms of a UTI that can be misunderstood include:
Confusion and Delirium
One of the most common signs of a UTI in seniors is sudden confusion or delirium. This can manifest as disorientation, difficulty concentrating, or a sudden decline in cognitive function. Delirium is usually reversible if seniors are appropriately treated. However, a UTI’s symptoms mimic those of more serious conditions like dementia. Diagnosing UTIs can be challenging if your senior can’t report their symptoms clearly and signs point to other conditions. Even in a hospital setting, a UTI is misdiagnosed 40 percent of the time.
Agitation and Restlessness
Seniors with a UTI may become unusually agitated or restless. This can include pacing, fidgeting, an inability to sit still, or aggression. \If your senior is typically kind and easygoing and suddenly, they are getting angry or aggressive or being mean to others, it could be due to a UTI.
Hallucinations and Delusions
Some older adults may experience hallucinations, seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, or delusions, holding false beliefs. This can be very scary for both you and your senior. If you or a professional caregiver are noticing signs that your senior is hallucinating, call a doctor right away.
Lower Back Pain
If your loved one has pain or noticeable discomfort in the lower-to-mid back, the UTI might be more severe, as it may have reached the kidney area.
Lethargy and Fatigue
A noticeable increase in lethargy or fatigue, where the senior appears unusually tired or lacks energy, can also be a symptom.\
Incontinence
Sudden or increased incontinence episodes, where the senior cannot control their bladder, may indicate a UTI.
Decreased Appetite and Social Withdrawal
A loss of appetite and withdrawal from social interactions can also be signs of a UTI in older adults. Seniors can lose their appetites for many reasons, but a UTI is one. If your loved one typically has a pretty good appetite and nothing has changed with their medication and suddenly doesn’t have much of an appetite, they may have a UTI. Pay close attention to see if they are having any other symptoms.
Issues with Balance or Falls
UTIs can cause seniors to become dizzy or lose their balance. If your senior does not generally have problems with mobility but begins to show issues with balance or falling, a UTI could be to blame. Seniors can fall for many reasons, but if your senior is feeling wobbly or losing their balance and nothing else in their routine has changed, it is a clear sign that something is wrong and a good idea to get them checked for the possibility of a UTI.
Taking Action
If you suspect a senior has a UTI, taking immediate action to prevent complications is crucial.
Seek Medical Attention
The first step is to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can perform a urine test to confirm the presence of a UTI and prescribe appropriate antibiotics.
Hydration
Encourage the senior to drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
Monitor Symptoms
Monitor the senior’s symptoms closely. Note any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels and report them to the healthcare provider.
Maintain Hygiene
Ensure proper hygiene practices, such as regular bathing and changing incontinence briefs frequently. This helps reduce the risk of further infections.
Avoid Bladder Irritants
Limit the intake of bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol. These can exacerbate symptoms and make the infection worse.
Follow Medication Instructions
Ensure that the senior completes the entire course of prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
As people age, they can experience more severe reactions to infection as well as a more comprehensive array of UTI-related symptoms. If you suspect one of your parents or grandparents has a UTI, take immediate action.