The Sneaky UTI: A Common Culprit in Senior Health

By C², Connie Colleen Wyatt, Occupational Therapist, PNW Home for Life PLLC

As an occupational therapist and founder of PNW Home for Life, I’ve seen it more times than I can count. Grandma suddenly stops eating, Grandpa’s confused, Aunt Sue starts arguing with the toaster. Cue the dramatic music… it’s a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Yes, UTIs are that common—and that disruptive—in older adults. And no, it’s not just about peeing more. UTIs can impact mobility, cognition, mood, appetite, and even independence. Not to be dramatic (okay, maybe a little), but they can derail an entire care plan.

Why UTIs Hit Seniors Hard

As we age, the body’s ability to fight infection decreases. Combine that with reduced mobility, chronic conditions, or even dehydration, and UTIs become frequent flyers.

But here’s the kicker: older adults don’t always show typical symptoms. That means a sudden fall, confusion, or irritability might not be “old age.” It might be a sneaky UTI knocking on the bladder’s door.

A UTI Can Affect the Whole Household

When UTIs strike, they don’t just affect the individual. They can send family caregivers into panic mode and increase fall risks, hospitalizations, and caregiver burnout.

I’ve seen clients cancel therapy, spouses lose sleep, and adult children juggle antibiotics with toddler meltdowns. It’s a full-body, full-house kind of impact.

What You Can Do About It

1. Stay Hydrated
   Water is boring, I know. But it’s also the best bladder buddy.
2. Use the Bathroom Regularly
   Holding it in? Not heroic. Just harmful.
3. Watch for Behavior Changes
   Confusion, fatigue, or increased falls may be signs. Don’t brush it off.
4. Work With Occupational Therapists
   We help spot the signs early, promote toileting independence, and improve home setups to support aging in place safely.
5. Create a Safe Bathroom Routine
   Need ideas? Check out our guide to aging in place bathroom modifications. Because nobody wants to fight a UTI in a slippery shower.

Let’s Talk About It—Because Pee Happens

UTIs aren’t glamorous. But neither is tripping over your cat at 3 a.m. trying to make it to the bathroom.

At PNW Home for Life, we believe talking about senior care—including the messy stuff—is part of how we keep people aging in place with dignity and safety.

Got questions about how OT can help with bladder health, fall prevention, or home safety? Reach out. I promise, I’ve heard it all—and I don’t flinch.

C², your bladder battle buddy

pnwhomeforlife.com

360-770-1752