3 Most Common Infections In Seniors

Influenza and UTI are very common infections and can happen to people of all ages, but older adults, especially over the age of 65, these infections and illnesses may be difficult to diagnose and lead to constant discomfort, chronic poor health, a higher risk of hospitalization and decreased chances of longevity. However, older adults are more susceptible to infections and those with dementia or in long-term care may be at an even higher risk.

It is critical for family caregiver to learn about the most common infections and their symptoms that occur in senior years. Some nonspecific symptoms include loss of appetite, mental and emotional changes, decline in physical and mental functioning, sudden falls and incontinence. Home Care Philadelphia experts suggest family caregivers to remain alert to any sudden changes in their senior loved one’s health, and take preventive measures to ward off infections. Here are some most common infections that occur in senior years.

1. UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)

According to many studies, UTIs, or Urinary Tract Infections, are the most common bacterial infection occurs in older adults. Diabetes and use of catheters are major factors increasing the risk of UTIs in seniors. Sudden behavioral variations like worsening of dementia and the onset of urinary incontinence are common warning signs, but discomfort or pain don’t usually happen in seniors with UTIs.

UTIs can be confirmed by urinalysis or other testing to determine the diagnosis, and the physician may prescribe antibiotics if necessary. Although, family caregivers should make sure their senior loved one drinks plenty of water throughout the day to prevent UTIs.

2. Skin Infections

Changing skin and decreasing of fast healing ability and resisting diseases make older adults more vulnerable to skin infections. Pressure ulcers, herpes zoster (shingles), cellulites, fungal or bacterial foot infections (commonly found in diabetic seniors), and drug resistance infections are some of the viral skin infections found in seniors. Families must know if their elderly loved one has unusual skin itching and lesions, and consult a doctor for treatment if they feel uncomfortable. Most infections are treatable and others like shingles are preventable by a vaccine. Help your loved ones to keep at bay the skin infections by maintaining good hygiene or you can even take assistance form a professional senior home care provider who encourages seniors practice good personal hygiene.

3. Bacterial Pneumonia

More than 60% of older adults, over the age of 60, get hospitalized because of pneumonia. There are a variety of risk factors contributing to bacterial pneumonia in seniors, including changed lung capacity, increased contact to diseases in social settings, and greater susceptibility because of other conditions such as diabetes or cardiopulmonary disease. According to a research, typical symptoms like chills, fever and cough are not often found in seniors; instead, non-respiratory symptoms like confusion or delirium, weakness are frequently observed. Antibiotic treatment is commonly prescribed by doctors for bacterial pneumonia. Although, some types of pneumonia can be successfully prevented in seniors by pneumococcal vaccine.

Keeping aging loved ones healthy and happy is an enduring process, but it is paramount for caregivers to stay one step ahead by being attentive to their loved one’s needs. Seeking professional in¬-home care help is recommended if caring for an elderly love one becomes challenging with other responsibilities.