The risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) increases as we get older. Women in particular are more prone to recurrent UTIs.

Urinary tract infections:• Affect the bladder and/or kidneys

• Risk increases with age

• Are more common in middle aged and older women

Common signs and symptoms:• A frequent urge to pass urine

• Difficulty in passing urine

• A burning sensation when passing urine

• Urine may be cloudy or have a strong smell

• Lower back or abdominal pain are sometimes experienced

• Behaviour changes

Why the older person is at risk?Normal age related changes lower body defence mechanisms

• Poor fluid intake

• Constipation

• Reduced mobility

• Incontinence

• Incontinence aides, especially catheters

Costs & carer burden associated with UTIsThe costs of UTIs are significant for older people and their carers. Costs include:

• Poor health outcomes for the older person

• Increased carer workload

• Increased treatment costs

• Increased care costs

UrinaryTract Infections

VICTORIAN CONTINENCE RESOURCE CENTRE

VCRCFor further information contact (03) 9816 8266 1300 220 871 info@continencevictoria.org.au www.continencevictoria.org.au© Continence Foundation of Australia Victoria Branch Inc. Supported by funding from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments

Preventative strategiesThere are a number of simple preventative strategies that can help reduce the risk of UTIs for older people.

• Drink at least 1500mL of fluids daily to help keep the bladder flushed out.

• Avoid caffeine drinks as these stimulate the bladder and may increase discomfort and symptoms. Decaffeinated drinks are an alternative. Remember chocolate products also contain caffeine.

• Prevent constipation by ensuring adequate fluid intake, adequate fibre intake, adequate exercise, correct toileting position and allow time to empty bowels.

• Good personal hygiene. Females should always wipe or be wiped from front to back after passing urine or faeces to reduce bladder contamination with E.coli. Care workers must practice correct hand washing practices in between handling older people and when changing gloves.

UrinaryTract Infections

VICTORIAN CONTINENCE RESOURCE CENTRE

VCRC

9 WAYS TO HELP PREVENT URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS1. Drink at least 1500mL of fluid each day

2. Limit caffeine drinks

3. Wipe from the front to the back after passing urine or bowel motions

4. Wear loose fitting cotton underwear

5. Shower rather than bathe

6. Avoid soaps, bubble bath or powders in the vaginal area

7. Pass urine following sexual intercourse

8. Vaginal oestrogen cream is useful in post menopausal women

9. If you have bladder or bowel control problems seek help

For further information contact (03) 9816 8266 1300 220 871 info@continencevictoria.org.au www.continencevictoria.org.au© Continence Foundation of Australia Victoria Branch Inc. Supported by funding from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments