Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are pretty simple to cure, but for elderly individuals they can be difficult to diagnose. Because UTIs can often cause behavioral changes that mimic those of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, it is important to know and be able to spot the warning signs of a UTI to avoid misdiagnosis.
The following are some common symptoms and behaviors that often accompany UTIs in elderly persons:
- A confused, or delirium-like state
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- Other behavioral changes
- Poor motor skills or dizziness
- Falling
Because it can be an source of embarrassment, some UTI symptoms often go unreported by elderly individuals, including:
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pain with urination
- Pelvic pressure
- Night sweats
- Cloudy or bloody urine
For more UTI warning signs in the elderly, click here.
At Live Free Home Health Care, our caregivers know the UTI signs and symptoms to look for in elderly individuals, and we can help clients get an early and accurate diagnosis from their physician to prevent further complications. Call Live Free Home Health Care today at 603-217-0149 to learn more about our in-home care services.