Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can happen to anyone, but they're especially common in people with incontinence and older adults.1 That’s why it’s so important to know the signs and how to help prevent them.
If you're caring for a loved one who has incontinence or another health condition, there are a few key things to keep an eye on. Spotting the early signs of a UTI can make a big difference in how quickly and easily it can be treated.
A urinary tract infection, or UTI, happens when bacteria get into the urinary system. This includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys.1 It’s uncomfortable and can become serious if left untreated, especially in older adults.
UTIs are actually quite common in elderly people, particularly those who have incontinence or reduced mobility, since those things can make it harder to keep the area clean and dry.1
Most people with a bladder infection will feel a burning sensation when they pee, need to go more often, feel like they have to go urgently, and might have some lower abdominal or pelvic pain.1 And depending on the severity, some might experience blood in urine.
But in older adults, the signs can be more subtle or vague. We’ll talk more about that below.
UTIs usually happen when bacteria make their way into the urinary tract.1 Things like wiping the wrong way (back to front), poor hygiene, or incontinence can all increase the risk.
Other risk factors include not drinking enough fluids, using catheters, and having a weakened immune system (which is more common as we age).1
A lower UTI affects the bladder and urethra.1 It’s uncomfortable, but usually treatable with antibiotics. An upper UTI, on the other hand, affects the kidneys and is more serious.1 It might come with fever, chills, or back pain, and sometimes even requires hospital care.1 It’s important to catch and treat a lower UTI early before it has a chance to move up.
Older adults don’t always show the typical signs of a UTI. Instead of burning or urgency, they might seem confused, tired, dizzy, or even unusually agitated.2
These symptoms can be easy to miss, which is why it’s important to know that a sudden change in mood or behavior might actually be a sign of infection.
Some people are more likely to get UTIs repeatedly. This includes those with diabetes, urinary retention, incontinence, or those who use catheters. Postmenopausal women are also at higher risk. As a caregiver, being aware of these risks can help you stay a step ahead.
UTIs can sometimes look like other things including dementia, dehydration, or even other infections. That’s why it’s so important not to jump to conclusions. A proper urine test is the best way to know for sure, before taking any antibiotics.
The good news? There’s a lot you can do to help prevent UTIs. Daily habits, like drinking enough fluids, going to the bathroom regularly, and using the right kind of incontinence products, all add up.1
Here’s a quick checklist to help prevent infections:
Shop caregiver-friendly incontinence products.
Supporting someone with toileting can be tricky, but it’s an important part of care. Using mobility aids, sticking to a bathroom schedule, and offering gentle reminders can make things easier. It’s very important to ensure your loved one feels comfortable and that their dignity is respected while taking care of their hygiene.
If a UTI is diagnosed, a doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics.1 It’s important to follow their instructions exactly and make sure the full course is finished, even if symptoms go away. If the person starts feeling worse or shows new symptoms, don’t wait and get medical help immediately.
While the antibiotics do their job, here are some ways to ease discomfort:
Prevention really comes down to a mix of good hygiene, healthy habits, and staying alert to changes. Encourage the person you care for to drink enough fluids, use the bathroom regularly, and avoid holding in urine.2
Keeping the genital area clean and dry is key, and if they use incontinence products, make sure those are changed often. A consistent routine can make a big difference in staying ahead of infections.2
They can contribute to the risk if not used correctly or changed frequently. When moisture builds up or bacteria sits too long on the skin, it creates the perfect environment for infection.
The good news is that with the right products and frequent changes, you can keep things clean and reduce the risk. Look for breathable, well-fitting incontinence products designed for comfort and skin health.
Products that keep the skin dry and reduce irritation can help a lot. Think breathable incontinence briefs, gentle cleansers, and barrier creams. TENA has a full range of caregiver-friendly products that are designed to support both comfort and hygiene.
Yes! For elderly women especially, it's important to wipe front to back, use mild, pH-balanced cleansers, and avoid heavily scented soaps or powders. Daily washing (without scrubbing or over-washing) can help maintain healthy skin and reduce bacteria buildup. Keeping the area dry and changing incontinence products regularly are also key steps to preventing UTIs.
References
1. Healthline. ‘Everything to know about UTIs in adults’. 2025. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/urinary-tract-infection-adults
2. Healthline. ‘Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults’. 2025. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/uti-in-elderly
District nurse/Urotherapist
