A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the body through the urethra and spread in the bladder. While anyone can develop a UTI at any age, the risk increases significantly as you get older.
At Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center in Hemet, California, our providers specialize in managing the complex urinary conditions that often affect seniors. We provide comprehensive care and effective solutions to help you find relief and prevent recurring infections.
UTIs in older adults don’t always look like your typical bladder infection, and they can quickly escalate if left untreated. Here’s what senior patients and caregivers need to know about this common condition.
For women, the drop in estrogen following menopause causes the vaginal tissues to become thinner and drier, which makes it easier for harmful bacteria to multiply and enter the urinary tract.
In men, an enlarged prostate can lead to incomplete bladder emptying during urination, which allows bacteria to linger and infection to spread. General age-related changes, such as weakened pelvic floor muscles, can also make it more difficult to fully empty your bladder.
Other health-related factors that raise the risk of UTIs for both men and women include chronic conditions like diabetes, certain medications, long-term catheter use, or a history of pelvic surgery.
These infections are common, affecting more than 8 million Americans every year. Most patients experience clear physical symptoms, including:
But because the aging immune system responds differently to infection, these warning signs are sometimes absent in older adults. Instead of pain or fever, a UTI may result in sudden cognitive changes, such as confusion, agitation, or lethargy — particularly for those who are unable to communicate their discomfort due to dementia or another condition.
Whether symptoms are typical or not, a professional diagnosis is the only way to confirm or rule out a UTI. Our providers perform a urinalysis and urine culture to identify the specific strain of bacteria involved, and we may recommend a CT scan or cystoscopy to check for underlying issues in complex or recurrent cases.
Once we have your results, we develop a targeted treatment plan that typically involves a course of antibiotics. Our team carefully manages the type and dosage of your prescription to combat the infection without interacting with other medications or conditions.
If you’re prone to UTIs, you can take proactive steps to optimize your urinary health and prevent future infections. These simple habits can keep harmful bacteria at bay:
For some women, hormone therapy may also help strengthen vaginal tissues, providing an extra layer of defense against UTIs.
If you have concerns about recurring urinary infections or unusual symptoms, our team is here to help. Contact Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center online or by phone to schedule an appointment and take control of your urinary health.
