As adults age, we worry about them getting sick and picking up germs or infections. One common infection that seems to come out of nowhere that can be very scary for older people is the urinary tract infection or UTI.
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra.
Symptoms of UTI are irregular in the elderly population and can include hypotension, tachycardia, urinary incontinence, poor appetite, drowsiness, frequent falls, and delirium, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). UTI manifests more commonly and specifically for this age group as delirium or confusion in the absence of a fever.
UTIs are the fifth most common type of healthcare-associated infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
UTIs are the most common outpatient infections, with a lifetime incidence of 50−60% in adult women, who are the most frequent sufferers, according to NIH. These infections represent between 1% and 6% of all medical visits (~7 million visits and ~US $1.6 billion annually).
As women age, the risk of a UTI increases. Infections in women aged over 65 is approximately double the rate seen in the female population overall. Simple human anatomy is the main reason women get UTIs 30 times more often than men. The female urethra (the tube from the bladder to where the urine comes out of the body) is shorter than the male’s, which makes it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.
What causes a UTI? Bacteria or germs. UTIs are caused by bacteria or, rarely, yeast getting into the urinary tract of women or men. In individuals with incontinence, the risk of UTIs can be higher due to prolonged exposure of the skin to urine, which can irritate and cause infection. Incontinence products that do not maintain skin dryness or have poor absorbency may contribute to UTIs by allowing urine to remain in contact with the skin for extended periods.
Urinary incontinence is defined as an involuntary loss of any amount of urine. It is primarily a storage disorder that on its own does not cause infections; however, a UTI may result from incomplete voiding rooted in the relaxation of the muscles or contractility of the bladder.
Incontinence can sometimes induce the onset of recurrent UTIs, so hygiene and appropriate incontinence supplies are necessary to not only wick moisture away and prevent additional bacteria growth, while preventing additional issues that may happen with the skin in the area such as irritation or infection.
Other health risks associated with incontinence:
Pressure Sores (Bedsores): Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on certain body areas. People with incontinence may be at a higher risk of developing pressure sores because of extended periods of sitting or lying in the same position, especially if the skin is moist from urine or feces. Incontinence products that do not effectively wick away moisture or have a poor fit can exacerbate the risk of pressure sores.
Falls: Incontinence can increase the risk of falls, especially in senior individuals. Frequent trips to the bathroom or urgency to void due to incontinence can lead to hurried movements, making seniors more prone to slipping or tripping. Additionally, incontinence products that are uncomfortable or ill-fitting may restrict mobility, further increasing the likelihood of falls.
Whether aging in place at home, or residing in a senior living community, people living with incontinence can reduce their risk of pressure sores, UTI’s, and falls, subsequently reducing their risk of ending up in the hospital by choosing the correct high quality incontinence products.
In addition, the pain, worry, and ancillary negative effects of incontinence care are staggering, but there are numerous types and styles of products on the market to ease the worry and stigma. These are all factors in promoting confidence, dignity, and overall, well-being for incontinent people to enjoy everyday life activities.
Features to Consider When Looking at Incontinence Supplies
Air Flow: Fully breathable products that allow the skin to breathe will reduce the risk of pressure sores. Without breathability, the person wearing the product may get skin irritations and skin breakdowns.
Not only is wearing a fully breathable product important, choosing skin care products and washcloths that protect elderly thinning skin is equally as important. Transparent barrier creams and “no water needed” cleansing creams, for example, can aid in reducing risk.
Absorbency: Absorbency is how much and how fast a product absorbs liquid.
Super absorbent products may also reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in elders if they are wearing a high-quality product with a double absorbent core that locks in urine while decreasing bacterial growth.
How It Goes On/Off: There are different styles (brief, diaper, pad) of undergarment and each is put on and changed a bit differently.
Sizing: Sizing is usually by height and weight.
Benefits of Finding the Right Product
Besides reduced risk of infection, there are many benefits to finding the right product for a person’s needs, especially when considering home care in Monmouth County.
The correct products—including absorbency, size and style—are key in helping the incontinent sleep through the night with better sleep habits. They can achieve a “restorative sleep,” meaning they can get seven to nine of uninterrupted sleep that allow a person to go through multiple sleep cycles. This type of rest has proven benefits such as cell regeneration, tissue healing, hormone regulation, being more alert in the morning and more.
If an incontinent person is wearing a product that keeps them dry longer and is made from soft comfortable materials, the likelihood of them staying in bed asleep at night is greater instead of waking up cold, wet and uncomfortable.
Staying in bed throughout the night reduces the risk of falling during the night.
Another benefit of the right product is the ease of changing the undergarment. The right size and absorbency makes changing easier by and less frequent changes.
Remember to compare overall value versus cost as this is critical to choosing wisely. The least expensive product isn’t always the best value if you are changing it frequently, leaking or ill-fitting.
If you or a loved one are challenged with incontinence, it is recommended that you inquire about high quality products at your local independent pharmacy or home medical supply store. Staff members at these stores will be more well versed about quality products rather than a consumer buying adult briefs or pull-ups in a “big box” store and can help guide consumers to proper size & fit, appropriate absorbency levels, styles, etc.
Most pharmacies and home medical supply stores will even be able to provide free product samples to try before you buy.
Understanding Incontinence Products
Incontinence products come in various forms, catering to different levels of incontinence and personal preferences. Here are the common types of products available:
Disposable Briefs or Adult Diapers: Disposable briefs, often referred to as adult diapers, are designed to provide full coverage and absorbency. They resemble traditional diapers and are suitable for moderate to heavy incontinence. When selecting the right size, consider waist and hip measurements, as well as the product’s size chart.
Pull-Up Underwear: Pull-up underwear offers a more discreet and underwear-like appearance. They are convenient for individuals with active lifestyles and milder forms of incontinence. Similar to disposable briefs, choosing the right size involves considering waist and hip measurements.
Incontinence Pads and Liners: Pads and liners are thinner, more discreet options suitable for light to moderate urinary incontinence. They can be used with regular underwear and provide protection against leaks. The right size is determined by the pad’s length, width, and adhesive placement.
Protective Underpads: Protective underpads, also known as bed pads or mattress protectors, are placed on surfaces to safeguard against leakage. They are available in various sizes to fit different bed dimensions. Consider the size of your mattress or desired coverage area when selecting underpads.
