Are you worried that your elderly loved one will get a UTI? Maybe, you had one before and you know how uncomfortable they can be. The good news is that home care providers can assist your elderly loved one with preventing a UTI and help them if they already have a UTI. Learn more about how these in-home care providers can assist your elderly loved one in this area.

Reminding Them to Use the Bathroom

One reason for a UTI is not urinating often enough. Does your elderly loved one regularly hold their urine until they have to go really badly? If this is the case, there is a higher chance that bacteria will build up in their urinary tract which can lead to a UTI. If they are doing this, it is important that someone reminds them to use the bathroom before their bladder is full. In-home care providers can do this.

Staying Hydrated

Does your elderly loved one often get dehydrated? Were you aware that research shows dehydration can lead to a UTI? You see, drinking water throughout the day increases urination. The more your elderly loved one urinates, the more their bladder and urinary tract is cleaned out. This can help in the prevention of UTIs. In-home care providers can remind your elderly loved one to stay hydrated. 

Watching for Symptoms

Sometimes, it may seem that urinary tract infections are unavoidable. The home care providers can keep an eye out for symptoms of a UTI in your elderly loved one. Some symptoms they might notice include:

• Burning while urinating

• Pain during urination

• Struggling to get urine out

If these symptoms are noticed, your elderly loved one could have a UTI. 

Getting Treatment

Some people will avoid treatment for these infections. They may drink cranberry juice or other things to try getting rid of the infection. However, it is important to understand that your elderly loved one needs proper medical treatment if they have a UTI. Infections are more dangerous for the elderly than they are for younger adults. If you or an in-home care provider suspect your elderly loved one has a UTI, have them see their doctor. 

Conclusion

These are some of the ways that senior care providers can help your elderly loved one with a UTI. As you can see, they can help with the prevention of urinary tract infections and help them if they have a UTI. 

If you or an aging loved-one is considering in-home care in Aventura, FL please contact the caring staff at Specialized Nursing Services today. (305) 652-2799

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3878051/

https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/uti.html