Treating urinary tract infection in older adults

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s) are common in women, but increase in both sexes with age. UTI’s are common in older people and account for the most frequent reasons for emergency hospital admission. Diagnosis of UTI in older people can be complex, as they often do not exhibit signs and symptoms normally associated with UTI in adults, and may not be able to provide an accurate history. Gaining a urine sample can also be complicated, due to cognitive difficulties and incontinence. This article will consider the current guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of UTI in older people.