Top 3 Most Common Infections seen in Elderly: #3. Pneumonia in the Elderly
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Top 3 Most Common Infections seen in Elderly
#3. Pneumonia in the Elderly
Over 60% of seniors have been admitted to hospitals due to pneumonia at least once after the age of 65. Researches, Jorge Perez San Juan, Lisandra Rodriguez Hernandez, Timothy L. Wiemken, Robert R. Kelley, Rafael Fernandez-Botran, Martin Gnoni, Paula Peyrani, Madhavi J. Rane, Forest W. Arnold, Julio A. Ramirez, Silvia Uriarte, and Jose Bordon, associated with the University of Louisville found that “advanced age is an independent risk factor for mortality.” They continued by saying, “human aging is associated with a gradual decrease of immune function.” Because of the increased susceptibility due to conditions like diabetes, dementia, stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy, changes in lung capacity, and increased exposure to disease in community settings seniors are at greater risk for pneumonia. UofL Physician Practices say to watch for symptoms like fever, cough, and chill. In Elderly symptoms like confusion, weakness and delirium are more common. Ask your doctor about what types of pneumonia can be prevented using a pneumococcal vaccine.
Watch video below to learn more about Pneumonia.
Top 3 Most Common Infections seen in Elderly
#2. Skin Infections
Due to the changes seen in aging skin our ability to heal and resist disease diminishes. This leads to increased skin infections in elderly populations. Skin infections commonly seen are These include pressure ulcers, shingles, fungal or bacterial foot infections, cellulitis. Even drug-resistant infections like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) unfortunately common. MRSA can be life threatening. Any infection can be life threatening if left untreated so stay alert to any unusual lesions, skin itching or pain. Seek treatment if your loved one is in discomfort and watch for low grade fevers. Many of these skin infections are treatable. The shingles infection can be prevented with a simple vaccine. Call today to learn how to ward off many of the skin infections by practicing good hygiene such as regular bathing schedules and proper hand washing.
#1. Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly
UTI, or Urinary tract infections, are the most common bacterial infection found in older adults, Charles M. Kodner, MD, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky reported in the American Family Physician Journal. 2010 Sep 15;82(6):638-643. Kodner and Emily K. Thomas Gupton, DO, MPH, Primary Care Medical Center, Murray, Kentucky went on to explain that, “recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in women and associated with considerable morbidity and health care use. The clinical features, diagnostic testing, and causative organisms are often similar to those of single cases of UTI, although there are additional treatment strategies and prevention measures to consider with recurrent UTIs.” It is important that Caregivers ensure their loved ones drink plenty of water, as this has been found to help prevent UTIs.
