Family Private Care Services
  • Home
  • About Us
    • History
    • Commitment
    • Leadership
  • Service
    • Areas
    • Expectations
    • Private Care
      • Alzheimer’s Care
      • Companion Care
      • Personal Care
      • Respite Care
      • Skilled Nursing Care
      • Spiritual Care
  • Resources
    • FAQs
    • Long Term Care
    • Private Care Trends
  • Caregivers
    • Alabama Registration
    • Georgia CNA/PCA Application
    • Georgia RN/LPN Registration
    • Caregiver Training
  • Contact Us
  • Menu Menu
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
Elderly Care, Healthy Living

Common Infectious Diseases in the Elderly

Infections are common for all ages, but they are generally easier to diagnose and treat in younger populations. For older adults, the lines become blurred. Sometimes, the symptoms of an infectious disease mimic symptoms of other conditions or the senior is having trouble communicating how they feel. Sadly, one third of all deaths in seniors over the age of 65 are from infectious diseases, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Let’s go over the most common infectious diseases for older adults and the signs to look for.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are the most frequent bacterial infections in older adults. There are a number of factors for this, including the use of catheters or diabetes. If a UTI is not treated, it can lead to sepsis – an infection in the bloodstream. Though UTIs are usually accompanied with pain, itching and burning, this isn’t always the same for seniors. If you suspect a UTI, the doctor can confirm with a urinalysis.

Skin Infections

Skin infections are more common with age because the skin changes and often becomes thin and more prone to cuts, scrapes and bruises, which can lead to infection. Other skin infections to watch for include viral infections like herpes, bacterial or fungal foot infections, cellulitis or MRSA.

Gastrointestinal Infections

The good bacteria in the gut changes with age and the use of medications. This can throw things off and lead to gastrointestinal infections such as H. pylori, C. difficile or gastritis. Signs of a gastrointestinal problem include fever, nausea and upper abdominal pain. These problems also tend to be more common in assisted living facilities.

Influenza and Pneumonia

Influenza and pneumonia can be very serious for the elderly, particularly those with weakened immune systems. While both infections are more common in nursing homes, an older adult can pick them up from anywhere. A cough, chills and fever are the most common symptoms, though older adults may experience delirium or confusion instead. Antiviral medications are often given to seniors when they have influenza to prevent it from turning into pneumonia.

Seniors are always at a greater risk for getting sick and suffering complications because their immune systems are less effective. While there is no way to prevent all infections, it does help to practice good health measures such as washing hands, covering the mouth when you cough or sneeze and getting a flu shot each year. For caregivers, stay alert and one step ahead. It could make all the difference for someone’s health and quality of life.

 

4:43 pm/by Family Private Care
Tags: Common Infectious Diseases
Share this entry
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on LinkedIn
  • Share on Tumblr
  • Share by Mail
https://familyprivatecarellc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/FPC-logo-no-bg.png 0 0 Family Private Care https://familyprivatecarellc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/FPC-logo-no-bg.png Family Private Care2018-09-18 16:43:302018-09-18 16:43:30Common Infectious Diseases in the Elderly

Call Family Private Care

Atlanta: (678) 620-3064
Birmingham: (205) 870-8855

Services

  • Skilled Nursing Care
  • Personal Care
  • Alzheimer’s Care
  • Companion Care
  • Respite Care
  • Spiritual Care

Care Trends

  • Digestive Health in Seniors
  • Hobbies Are Great Way To Relax for Caregivers
  • Leptin Resistance
  • Kidney Health
  • Heart Health

Disclaimer

Articles do not constitute medical or legal advice. The articles are provided for informational purposes only.

Accreditations, Affiliations & Awards

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

As Family Private Care continues to monitor the developing situation with COVID-19, we are adhering to all CDC and WHO guidelines for healthcare professionals. We ask all our clients to have a ready supply of gloves, anti-bacterial hand soap, and sanitizing wipes and sprays. Additionally, we are encouraging our caregivers to have these items with them as well. We would also recommend that all clients & caregivers closely monitor the CDC guidelines, practice social distancing, avoid all travel, and avoid groups over 50 people. Should a client or caregiver exhibit any flu-like symptoms, please contact our office at 678.620.3064 immediately! Thank you for your continued trust in us. Working together, we will all get through this.

Atlanta Office

1905 Woodstock Road
Building 500, Suite 5200
Roswell, GA 30075
Phone: (678) 620-3064
Fax: (678) 620-3709

Birmingham Office

402 Office Park Drive
Suite 240
Birmingham, AL 35223
Phone: (205) 870-8855
Fax: (205) 870-8866

Note: Employer directives are only intended for employees of FPC. Our affiliated Caregiver Registries encourage Independent Contractors and clients associated with Caregiver Registries to take all necessary precautions.

© Copyright - Family Private Care Services
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Skilled Nursing Care
  • Personal Care
  • Alzheimer’s Care
  • Companion Care
  • Respite Care
  • Spiritual Care
September is Healthy Aging Month. How are YOU Aging? 5 Ways Seniors Can Benefit from Yoga
Scroll to top