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UTI Risk in Hospitalizations in PD

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are extremely common in older adults. However, the present very differently when we are older compared to when we are younger. People who have reduced mobility are at a higher risk of a UTI, which means people with PD are at a higher risk. What happens when someone with PD has even less mobility while they are in the hospital? Let's find out.





How do UTIs present in older adults?

Older adults may experience the following

  • Cognitive changes that are sudden

  • Increased agitation

  • Slurred speech

  • Dizziness

  • Worsening of balance and coordination

  • Fatigue


These symptoms sound a lot like stroke or a sudden change in PD symptoms. In fact, UTIs are the primary reason older adults go to the hospital! So be on the look out for symptoms other than urinary changes.



A new study looked at over 300,000 hospitalizations in people with PD and looked for the frequency of UTIs. They found a few factors that made people more at risk for a UTI.

  1. Catheter use

  2. Inter-facility transfer

  3. Age 65 years and older

  4. Dementia

  5. Emergency or urgent admission



What can help reduce risk?

  • Advocate to limit catheter use

  • Advocate for physical therapy daily. Movement will help reduce UTI risk

  • Ensure normal medication schedule. If your medication timing is off, your PD symptoms will be worse, which will make moving out of bed harder and can lead to catheter utilization



Why is this important?

UTIs can lead to longer hospitalization stays and possibly a higher risk of delirium. The sooner you can get out of the hospital, the better.




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