We have been conducting a series on aging and the body. As much as we know that many seniors and elderly people are active and in great health, there are still an number of physical issues that we as aging people must understand. Our urinary system is of no exception.
So how does our urinary system change as we age?
To start, as people age, it gets harder for the kidneys to filter waste materials out of the blood. This can cause toxic substances to build up in the body. So, for example, when an elderly loved one, Uncle Edward, takes a medication, it stays in his blood longer
than normal. In some cases, Uncle Edward may end up being “poisoned” by his medication unless the doctor adjusts his dose.
The bladder also gets smaller and weaker, so it can hold less urine for a shorter period of time. Both men and women may need to urinate more frequently and may feel a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. The may need to get up during the night to urinate.Incontinence is more common in elderly people, but it is not a normal part of aging.Incontinence can however result from infections, diseases, or even as a side effect of medications.
- To prevent urinary problems for yourself or your loved ones, you should:
- Assist them to the bathroom regularly to prevent accidents due to the urgent need to void. (They may need to go to the bathroom every two hours or less.)
- Encourage them to wear clothing than can be removed easily when the urge to urinate hits. Try slacks with elastic waistbands rather than buttons or zippers.
- Make sure the path to the bathroom is clear.
- Avoid serving drinks with caffeine and salty foods for the evening meal. This helps prevent nighttime trips to the bathroom.
- Encourage your clients to drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Help them with their bathroom hygiene as needed.
Also remember to watch for and report:
- Unusual frequency of urination
- Sudden urgency to urinate
- Straining to void
- Incontinence
- Blood in the urine or cloudy urine
This wasn’t such a fun topic, but it’s an important one so we hope you’ve found this information helpful.
At Comfort Keepers we seek to be a resource to you because we are Comfort Keepers caregivers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
