During November’s Bladder Health Awareness Month, stop and think about the bladder health issues your parents face. Bladder cancer is one of them. Incontinence is far more likely. What often catches families by surprise are common urinary tract infections (UTIs).
If your mom or dad has a urinary tract infection, do you know the signs? While pain while urinating is one most people think of, it’s not the only sign of a UTI in the elderly. Here are the signs you should know.
Accidents
If your parents suddenly start having accidents, it can be a sign of a UTI. Bladder control is affected by the infection.
Agitation and Anger
When an older adult has a UTI, anger and agitation can be symptoms. It’s especially true with people who have dementia. The discomfort and pain they feel are expressed emotionally.
If your parent is usually angry or agitated, pay attention to how often your parent is using the bathroom. Frequent trips to the bathroom are a warning sign.
Frequent Urge to Go
When a UTI is present, the urge to urinate can be overwhelming. Even after going to the bathroom, your parent may feel that the bladder is still full.
Dark Urine
Urine shouldn’t be dark yellow or have a pink tinge. If it does, it can be the sign of a UTI. Blood in the urine may give it a pink tinge. Dark yellow is a sign that your parents aren’t drinking enough.
If your mom or dad has a UTI, the frequent urge to urinate can keep them from wanting to drink much. Staying properly hydrated is important. Your mom and dad need to flush out the kidneys and bladder often when a UTI is present. Two liters is a good goal for your mom. Your dad should aim for around three liters.
Make sure your parents stay hydrated by having caregivers offer plenty of water-rich foods and beverages throughout the day. Snacks like cantaloupe and fresh raspberries are ideal.
If a UTI is suspected, call your parent’s doctor and arrange for a test. You don’t want to delay treatment and have the UTI reach the kidneys. Home care services can help with transportation to medical appointments.
Home care aides are also helpful at picking up prescription medications. With help available each day or week, your parents will feel better. Home care gives them the help they need to focus on their recovery.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING HOME CARE IN SUMMERLIN, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF SUMMERLIN. 702-800-4616.