Aging with RAZ

Identifying and preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are one of the most common health issues in older adults, and they can be especially hard to detect in people with dementia. Here’s what to look out for and how to help prevent them.

💡Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) – watch for the following symptoms:
➡️ An urge to urinate (pee) that can’t be delayed
➡️ Burning or pain when urinating
➡️ Very little urine
➡️ Urine tinged with blood
➡️ Complaints about soreness or pain in their sides, back, or lower abdomen
➡️ Signs of nausea, vomiting, chills, or fever, when an infection hasn’t been caught in the early stages

And seek immediate medical help.

Preventing UTIs:
1️⃣ Drinking enough water, don’t restrict daytime fluids
2️⃣ Change continence products every 2 hours
3️⃣ Use breathable continence products

Caring for someone with dementia means paying attention to the signs they may not be able to communicate themselves. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

@tracycreamperkins — author of Dementia Home Care, How to Prepare Before, During, and After.