Infections and diseases are some of the most common health concerns that affect almost 60% of the elderly population today. With old age comes weakness, and when their health concerns are left untreated or unaddressed, they tend to become a vital cause for death.
As you start growing old, the immune system becomes weaker. As a result, your body loses the ability to fight any sort of infection thus compromising the vital health performance, that in turn puts the elderly’s life at greater risk.
Why are infections more common in older people?
A direct correlation appears to exist between increasing age and infection susceptibility. The elderly is susceptible to infections due to several factors, including impaired immune systems, anatomical changes, and exposure to infections. Several infections are important risk factors for the elderly since the illnesses they cause often lead to a reduced quality of life and even death. In addition, an elderly individual’s environment can affect their exposure to infections, with long-term care facilities and hospitals posing greater risks than living at home. There are many types of infections that older people are susceptible to. They range from minor infections to some of the most significant ones. Every illness affects the adult in its capacity. The infection depends on how it has changed and whether the infected person can deal with it. A condition can also be dangerous, from simple flu to severe disease.
There is a wide range of infections that present serious risks to the elderly with the most common infection being pneumonia which transmits from person to person through coughing, sneezing, close contact with the person affected etc.
1. Influenza in the elderly
Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by Type A and Type B influenza viruses that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It is one of the most common forms of disease that infects adults and particularly possesses greater risk to people older than 65 years and in people with serious medical conditions. The virus is most spread among humans by respiratory droplets containing virus via coughing and sneezing but can sometimes also be transmitted directly to humans by avian or swine species.
Some of the many common symptoms of the flu could be fever, headache, dizziness, chills, shortness of breath, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea etc. The symptoms could remain persistent or could recur over a period.
Treatment
Some of the home remedies that could help ease the symptoms of the flu could include – sip on hot beverages such as soups and tea, staying warm, eating well cooked light meals etc. . Seek medical help immediately if any one of the following symptoms stay persistent – shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, seizures, severe weakness, and muscle pain.
2. Bacterial pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia is severe pneumonia that occurs when bacteria enter the lungs. About 60% of older people are affected by bacterial pneumonia. It is one of the most common respiratory infections in the elderly and can also be life-threatening. These bacteria can become airborne when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
They can also spread through contact with respiratory secretions such as saliva, mucus, or blood. Bacterial pneumonia is more common in people who smoke cigarettes or have chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
Treatment
Treatment for bacterial pneumonia includes treatment with antibiotics, a balanced diet, and rest. In severe cases, it may require hospitalization. With proper treatment, most people fully recover from bacterial pneumonia.
3. Elderly Skin Infections
The elderly requires special skincare because their skin is thin and dry making it very easy for the bacteria and virus to enter. Care must be taken to prevent the skin from becoming too dry, so hot baths should be avoided, as should frequent baths/showers. Avoid soap or use just mild soap. If the skin is dry, moisturizer should be applied after a bath. Ageing causes many changes in the skin. It leads to a weakening of their healing ability. The older you get, the more susceptible you are to various skin infections. Some of the more common examples of skin infections are:
- Foot infections
- Cellulitis or drug-resistant infections
- Viral infections such as shingles
- Fungal infections
- Eczema
Treatment
Avoid frequent hot showers and baths, apply moisturizers or medicated creams prescribed by the doctor in areas affected on a regular basis, avoid stepping out in the sun when not wearing sunscreen, avoid touching areas continuously that have begun to itch etc. Seek dermatologist’s help for recurring skin problems.
4. Urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infection or UTI is an infection of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the ureters, kidneys, bladder, and urethra. UTIs occur by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel to the bladder or kidneys. UTIs in the elderly have become a significant problem, with more than 30% of nursing home patients reporting UTIs. Elderly people with diabetes or who use a catheter are at higher risk.
- Dehydration
- Incontinence/ Urine retention in bladder
- Elevated vaginal pH
- Not urinating properly
- E Coli Infection
Treatment
Treatment of a UTI often involves antibiotics to clear the infection. Sometimes, it may require hospitalization if the disease is severe or has spread to the kidneys.
Home remedies like drinking cranberry juice or placing a heating pad on your lower abdomen can also help relieve symptoms. It is also necessary to drink plenty of fluids, as this will help flush out bacteria that can cause infection. Proper toilet etiquette also plays a vital role in minimizing the spread of infection.
5. Gastrointestinal infections
The gastrointestinal tract is a long tube that extends from the mouth to the anus and includes the stomach and intestines. Most gastrointestinal infections are mild and go away independently, but some can lead to more severe complications. The most common gastrointestinal disorders are caused by foodborne illnesses, transmitted through contaminated food or water consumption. These infections can be hazardous for older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
Treatment
The usual treatment for gastrointestinal infections is antibiotics, which can be taken orally or intravenously. Antibiotics are very fruitful against bacterial infections but not against viral infections. Other treatments, such as antiviral drugs or probiotics, may be recommended in cases where antibiotics are ineffective. Most gastrointestinal disorders will disappear with proper treatment and care by family members or caregivers at home. It is essential to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Contact Anvayaa’s healthcare experts for more helpful resources, exceptional home care nutrition plans for your elderly loved ones. Keeping elderly loved ones healthy is an ongoing process, but with our team who stay alert and well prepared – we can say that we are already one step ahead to care for you!
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