My mother is 92. She has a bladder infection and has been out of her mind. I didn't realize that was a problem for older people. I wanted to know how long it will take for her to be normal again or if she ever will be? This has been a very difficult experience and I wondered if anyone out there had any advice about her care. She isn't sick enough for medicard to pay for nursing home and I had to take vacation to watch her.
Do you think they keep her clean enough in the NH?
We tried Standard AZO when she was at her worst. It did help to calm her bladder some. It should only be used a couple of days. I am not going to recommend this drug for others, but only to mention that my mother used it with good results and no bad side effects. It does make the urine red and can stain if not used with care.
I'm trying to get her over a bad one right now. Anyone know?
My MIL now uses the cleansing pads (baby wipes) and is VERY careful wiping. I have also added 300 mg of Cranberry fruit extract AM and PM for the last year and a half. Her doctor is all for it. And she has not had a bladder infection since then. My MIL also drinks cranberry juice - but she waters it down 50/50 with water. It helps the water go down :0) THE ABSOLUTE BEST THING is flushing your system with water - copious amounts - they recommend 1 oz for every pound of body weight - and I know most of us don't drink nearly that much.
But, she swears by the cranberry fruit extract and I can't help but feel that it is the reason for her urinary tract health today. I hope your mom is better - those infections can be 'maddening.'
You are not alone here. Many caregivers experience this while caring for their elderly loved ones. I have attached two articles that can provide great insight while dealing with this problem. Also, read the members comments below (and feel free to comment). You will find many other caregivers similar stories.
Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/Elderly-urinary-tract-infections-146026.htm
and
Incontinence and Bladder Control
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/An-Overview-of-Urinary-Incontinence-96655.htm
Hope this helps.
Karie H.