Four Common Infections In Seniors You Should Be Aware Of

Illnesses can cause a higher risk of fatality in individuals over the age of 65. That is why it is crucial to monitor them carefully and be aware of common infections that your loved ones might have an increased risk of contracting. Even simple infections like urinary tract infections can often be serious in older individuals. It is, therefore, crucial to be aware of common infections in the elderly as well as their warning signs to prevent worsening symptoms. 

Bacterial Pneumonia 

Pneumonia is an infection that can pose a great risk to older adults, even resulting in death. Some of the more common symptoms of bacterial pneumonia such as chills, cough and fever are actually not that normally spotted in older adults. Therefore, to be aware of this illness, it is important to look out for non-respiratory symptoms like confusion, disorientation, and a decreased interest in food in your loved ones. Bacterial pneumonia can be treated via a course of antibiotics but it is important to keep a lookout for the symptoms involved. 

Influenza 

Influenza in older adults is yet another illness that could potentially be fatal for individuals with weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses. Common symptoms of influenza include chills, cough and a high fever. However, for older individuals, they might develop different symptoms so it is important to keep a lookout. It is recommended for your loved ones to take the annual flu booster vaccination in order to reduce the chance of being infected. It is always recommended to prevent than to treat.

Skin Infections

Skin infections are also another common problem for older adults as the skin’s ability to regenerate decreases. Therefore, infections like bacterial or fungal foot infections, cellulitis or MRSA are unfortunately often common in older adults. It is thereby important to focus on good hygiene and keep a lookout for early symptoms of skin infections.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections can also be common in older adults, especially women. Older individuals who are also diabetics and catheter users might also have an increased risk of contracting a UTI. It is thus important to spot the symptoms early on and to also notice any sudden changes in behavior, including confusion, worsening of dementia symptoms or incontinence. It is crucial to get medical help as soon as you suspect that your loved ones might have a UTI before it worsens into a kidney infection. Meanwhile, if your loved ones are prone to contracting UTIs, some preventive measures to take could be drinking cranberry juice and implementing hygiene measures. 

Get The Best Care at Morada Albuquerque 

To ensure that your loved ones get the best care, be sure to head over to Morada Albuquerque. At our community, we offer health and wellness programs that are sure to keep your loved ones active and healthy. At Morada Albuquerque, you can always have peace of mind that your loved ones are well taken care of. Contact us now to find out more about the programs that we have to offer!