UTIs can also be difficult to get rid of. It's not uncommon to need more than one round of antibiotics to shake a persistent UTI, which can prolong discomfort and lead to other issues, such as upset stomach from antibiotic use.

For most people, UTIs are fairly easy to recognize — frequent urges to urinate and burning sensations when urinating are obvious tell-tale signs it's time to consult a health care provider. Today, you can also get UTI test strips from local pharmacies to quickly determine if you might have a UTI.

However, for some older adults, UTIs can take a strange turn that's confusing to the individual and their loved ones. Discover more about atypical UTI symptoms below.

Why Older Adults Are at Higher Risk for UTIs

Older adults have a higher risk than younger adults for numerous health issues, including UTIs. One reason infection risk rises as you age is that your body undergoes some natural changes, including those that impact the efficacy of your immune system. As you age, you may not be as able to easily fight off infections as you once were.

Other common risk factors include:

• Catheter use
• Limited mobility
• Chronic health conditions such as diabetes
• Dehydration
• Medications that cause urinary retention

Cognitive issues, such as memory loss, can also put someone more at risk for infections, including UTIs. In part, this is because they may not understand early symptoms or report them effectively, leading to more serious infections.  

Potential UTI Symptoms in Older Adults

For most people, common signs of UTIs include a burning feeling when urinating, a frequent need to urinate, urine that's cloudy, dark or very strong-smelling and pain in the lower abdomen. You might also run a fever.

However, for someone who's dealing with an atypical UTI, the symptoms can be very different and somewhat alarming. Here's a look at the symptoms of atypical UTI in older adults:

• Abnormal fatigue. Someone might begin to sleep for hours at a time during the day when they otherwise don't nap a lot. In extreme cases, a person might sleep almost all the time, only being up and out of bed an hour or two each day.
• Weakness. Older adults with severe UTIs may feel extremely weak. They may not walk well and may be more prone to falls.
• Loss of appetite. Someone who has this type of UTI may not want to eat a lot or eat anything at all. It's not uncommon for rapid weight loss to occur if the infection isn't treated.
• Behavioral changes. Individuals may demonstrate agitation or may lash out at others, even if they typically don't engage in such behavior.
• Confusion or delirium. For many, this is one of the most alarming symptoms of an atypical UTI. The confusion and delirium can come on quite suddenly, and the person may experience problems with time (such as a swap between days and nights), challenges communicating or even hallucination-like thoughts.

Misdiagnosis and Complications From Lack of Treatment

Symptoms of a UTI in older adults can mimic the symptoms expected with other types of conditions, including dementia. Family members may even wonder if their older loved one has suddenly entered a progressive state of dementia. However, the unexpected arrival of confusion or delirium in this manner should be investigated to rule out infections and other causes.

Acting quickly is important. A UTI — or any infection — that goes untreated can lead to life-threatening sepsis, kidney infections or a worsening of any preexisting chronic illnesses.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you suspect you or someone you love might have a UTI, you can buy UTI test strips at most pharmacies. These test strips can provide you with some information, but they shouldn't be used as a diagnosis on their own. If you or your loved one experiences any of the above symptoms, reach out to a doctor.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have any combination of a high fever, shaking and chills, strong back or side pain and severe confusion. This may mean going to the emergency room or an urgent care if you can't get an appointment with a primary care physician quickly.

Monitoring Frequent UTIs or Infection

Some older adults may be more susceptible to UTIs or infection, especially if they have a chronic health condition. Monitoring is important to ensure safety and proactive treatment when UTIs or infections occur.

If you believe you or someone you love is at risk for UTIs, consider keeping test strips at home so you can quickly check for UTI-related infections. Adults who choose to make a home in assisted living communities such as ViewPointe in Colorado Springs have the peace of mind that comes with regular professional support, including clinical staff who can help identify worrisome symptoms and manage care.