Written by Sophie Bebeau on Tue Aug 05 2025.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs are found in the lower urinary tract (the bladder and urethra).
If you’ve ever had a UTI, you're likely familiar with the pain and discomfort that comes with it, such as a frequent need to urinate, a burning sensation, or stomach and pelvic pain.
Urinary tract infections are incredibly common, accounting for more than 8 million doctor visits each year in the United States. According to the American Urological Association, about 10 in 25 women and 3 in 25 men will experience symptoms of a UTI in their lifetime.
The risk of urinary tract infections significantly increases with age. This is often due to a weakening immune system, other health conditions, and a higher chance of dehydration and immobility.
Over 10% of women aged 65 and older report a UTI each year, and that percentage increases to 30% for women over 85. While UTIs are more common in women, the risk for men also increases substantially after age 65.
As people age, UTIs can present with a new set of behavioral and mental symptoms in addition to the typical physical ones.
Imagine you're a caregiver for your aging mother. One day, she seems more confused, agitated, or disoriented than usual. She may have trouble remembering things or even experience hallucinations. Would a UTI be your first thought?
Many caregivers are aware of UTIs in older adults but don’t realize they can cause these unique mental and behavioral changes. It can be challenging to detect a UTI in older adults because they don't always show the most common physical signs or may be unable to express their symptoms accurately. Also, the mental symptoms that often accompany UTIs can be subtle and easily attributed to other conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
Some of the most common mental and behavioral signs of a UTI in older adults include:
Sudden changes in cognitive function
Confusion
Hallucinations
Lethargy
Difficulty concentrating
Memory loss
Delusions
Agitation and aggressive behavior
Decreased appetite
Frequent falls
While it's important to be aware of these symptoms, you should also know the classic physical symptoms. Though they may be less common or suppressed in older adults, they can still be present.
The physical symptoms of a UTI in seniors can include:
Frequent urination
Discomfort or a burning sensation when urinating
Pelvic or stomach pain
Fever and chills
Abnormal urine odor
Dark, cloudy, or thick urine
Frequent touching of private areas
New or worsening incontinence
If someone you're caring for experiences any of the following symptoms, it could mean the infection has spread to the kidneys. An untreated UTI can lead to serious kidney damage and sepsis, a life-threatening complication.
Seek prompt medical care if you notice:
High fever
Back pain
Nausea and vomiting
Difficulty waking your loved one
Pink or red-tinged urine
UTIs are most often caused by bacteria from the rectum entering the urethra and traveling to the bladder. Sexual intercourse and improper wiping after using the bathroom are two of the most common ways this can happen.
Other risk factors for developing a UTI as an older adult include:
Using a urinary catheter
Having diabetes
An enlarged prostate
Lower levels of vaginal estrogen (for women)
Incontinence and frequent use of adult diapers
Dehydration
In rare cases, UTIs can be caused by fungus in the bloodstream, but this usually only affects people who are immunocompromised.
Luckily, there are simple things that older adults and their caregivers can do to help prevent UTIs. These habits can go a long way in keeping infections at bay.
Wipe from front to back: This ensures you're moving bacteria away from the urethra after using the toilet.
Stay hydrated: Older adults are prone to dehydration. If you're a caregiver, offer frequent water or unsweetened drinks throughout the day.
Practice good hygiene: Make sure to wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom and bathe regularly.
Urinate frequently: Don't hold in urine. Empty the bladder as soon as you feel the need to go.
Change incontinence products often: Change adult diapers as soon as they are soiled and thoroughly wash the body after leaks or accidents.
Practice safe sex: Urinating after sex helps flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
A UTI is diagnosed after a doctor tests a urine sample. It is then treated with antibiotics. If you suspect a UTI, it's crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible so your loved one can be tested and treated. Prompt treatment will prevent the infection from spreading and causing more serious problems, like kidney damage.
Carewell's team of Care Specialists is available to help you with any questions. They are available to help!
You can reach them by calling (800) 696-CARE, emailing support@carewell.com. We are passionate about serving caregivers and would love to help make your life easier!
Urinary tract infections, also known as UTIs, are very common, and there are often practical ways to reduce the risk of developing one. In this article, you’ll learn about the products and steps you can take to keep your loved one UTI-free. Proactive care is one of the best ways to help people you love stay healthy.
Read More >
As a caregiver, you might need to know how to treat UTIs, also known as urinary tract infections. By taking several steps and using the right products, you can minimize the pain and discomfort associated with UTIs and help your loved one heal.
Read More >Sophie Bebeau is a writer, graphic designer, poet, and multidisciplinary artist living in Green Bay, Wisconsin. When she’s not writing or making things for the internet, she can be found cross-stitching, writing poetry, and snuggling on the couch with a cup of tea and her husband, son, and dog, Buttercup.
