Be Alert for Common Infections in Elderly

Everyone can catch a cold.  And the flu.  Such common infections can happen to anyone.  But for the elderly, these illnesses can mask even greater health issues.

As we age, our body chemistry and metabolism change.  Recovery time may be longer, which leads to more discomfort.  Diagnosis may be more difficult, in part due to poor health choices related to sleep, nutrition, medications, and exercise.   Seniors in poor health run a higher risk of hospitalization due to infection.

According to research, infectious diseases in elderly over age 65 results in death in almost 30% of cases.

Adding another layer of complexity are seniors with dementia.   Though seniors are more susceptible to infection overall, seniors with dementia or those who are in long-term care may be at an even greater risk.

For family and caregivers, it is critically important to understand common infections in the elderly, but also what symptoms to look for.  Do you see a general decline in function?  A loss of appetite?  Cognitive changes?  Incontinence?  Evidence of bruising due to falls?  Any of these elusive signs may represent an infection.

Taking steps – proper diet, vitamins, exercise, sleep – to maintain good health and ward off infections is the first step.  But we need to stay alert to any changes in elderly parents and their health.

JD Miller

About JD Miller

John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions. Phone: (781) 378-2164 Email: [email protected] Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com
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