UTIs in the Elderly: Treatments, pt 4

Depending on the health of the senior, and whether their urinary tract infections are considered “recurring,” antibiotics are typically the first course of action by doctors. However, even with the presence of bacteria in the urine, antibiotics may not always be the best course of action. Overuse of antibiotics can potentially make a urinary tract infection worse in the long run, with antibiotic-resistant UTI bacteria becoming increasingly common.

Doctors will normally request a “culture and sensitivity test” of the UTI bacteria to identify the best type of antibiotic to combat it. If the UTI is recurring, even after a course of antibiotics, doctors may suggest other options that focus more on prevention. Treatment for a UTI may take several weeks, and may require lifestyle changes. And, for senior women, it could even involve hormone therapy.

The American Medical Association suggests these lifestyle strategies to help prevent UTIs in the elderly:

— Avoid sugar, sugar substitutes, and alcohol
— Limit caffeine intake, and drink plenty of water
— Take probiotics, vitamin C, and D-mannose regularly (check with a doctor to ensure these supplements are a good fit)
— Urinate promptly when the urge arises
— Don’t eat foods that cause constipation
— Relax while urinating and take enough time to completely empty the bladder
— Exercise regularly, focusing on pelvic floor exercises
— Maintain a healthy weight
— Quit smoking
— Watch out for medications that numb the nervous system
— Wipe front to back
— Empty the bladder immediately after sex
— Take showers instead of baths
— Change incontinence products immediately after soiling them

It is recommended older adults drink at least four to six 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Consult with a doctor to ensure your liquid intake is right for your needs. Drinking pure cranberry juice or taking cranberry tablets can make urine less inviting for bacteria.

If your loved one has symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to make an appointment with their doctor right away. If symptoms are severe, call the doctor immediately to determine whether a trip to the emergency room is necessary.

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