Urinary tract infections in the frail elderly: Issues for diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections in frail elderly adults, whether they are community dwelling, live in long term care facilities (LTCFs) or are hospitalized. UTIs cause substantial morbidity and mortality in frail elderly men and women. While many major risk factors in these individuals may not be modifiable, improved attention to incontinence management, judicious use of antimicrobials and urinary catheters, and, in women, appropriate use of topical estrogen may be useful in reducing UTIs. Future strategies may also include the appropriate use of new urinary catheter technology and emerging vaccines.

Catheter-associated and nosocomial urinary tract infections: antibiotic resistance and influence on commonly used antimicrobial therapy

“…There are many non-modifiable risk factors in individuals hospitalized in urological wards that cause substantional morbidity and mortality due to UTIs [7]. It could be argued that many of the infections are asymptomatic bacteriuria of minor clinical importance.…”

Trends in Antibiotic Prescribing in Adults in Dutch General Practice

“…Outpatient antibiotic consumption is higher in elderly patients than in the general population [2]–[4] and most antibiotics are prescribed in elderly patients for respiratory tract infections (RTI) [5], skin and soft tissue infections [6] and urinary tract infections (UTI) [7]. However, detailed information of antibiotic prescribing in elderly is scarce.…”

Residual Urine as a Risk Factor for Lower Urinary Tract Infection: A 1‐Year Follow‐Up Study in Nursing Homes

“…L ower urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common medical problem in elderly people. 1,2 In the vulnerable nursing home population, UTIs can be a significant source of morbidity and even mortality. 2 Bacteriuria occurs in approximately 30% of people aged 65 and older, compared with 16% in those younger than 65.…”