Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are fairly common, especially among the elderly. But what most people don’t understand is that some of the symptoms of a UTI can mimic incontinence or the early signs of dementia.

A urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection that occurs anywhere along the urinary tract. The most common symptoms include a fever, painful urination, strong need to urinate and foul-smelling or cloudy urine.

However, in older adults some of these symptoms do not present, like fever, or may be something experienced often, like strong need to urinate, due to age and bladder weakness.

As the infection progresses, it can bring about additional symptoms such as confusion, agitation, poor motor skills and other behavioural changes. Because these symptoms are also warning signs of dementia, a UTI can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed.

According to the American National Institutes of Health, there are several conditions that make the elderly more susceptible to urinary tract infections. These include diabetes, catheters, incontinence, immobility and kidney stones. Untreated, a UTI can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening bloodstream infection; which is why it is so important to monitor and treat any infections.

Some suggestions for reducing the risk of developing a UTI include:

- Drink plenty of fluids.

- Change undergarments and/or incontinence products frequently.

- Always cleanse the genital area from front to back using appropriate skin care.

- Avoid or reduce caffeine and alcohol intake.

- Add cranberry juice or pills to your diet, unless you have kidney stones or are on blood-thinning medication.

Anyone suspecting a urinary tract infection should see a healthcare professional as soon as possible.