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Infections in the elderly

P J Henschke1

  • 1Aged and Extended Care Department, Repatriation General Hospital, Daw Park, SA.

The Medical Journal of Australia
|June 21, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Elderly infections often lack fever, presenting as weakness or falls. Bacterial infections are common in the respiratory and urinary systems, necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Infections in the elderly can present atypically, often without fever.
  • Common bacterial infection sites include the respiratory system, urinary tract, and soft tissues.
  • Serious conditions like joint infections, meningitis, and bacterial endocarditis require consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight atypical signs of infection in older adults.
  • To review common bacterial pathogens and infection sites in the elderly.
  • To emphasize preventive strategies and treatment options for common infections.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical presentations of infections in elderly patients.
  • Discussion of common bacterial etiologies and anatomical sites.
  • Overview of recommended vaccinations and antiviral prophylaxis.

Main Results:

  • Elderly patients may exhibit weakness, falls, incontinence, or altered mental status as infection indicators.
  • Bacterial infections are prevalent, particularly in the respiratory and urinary tracts.
  • Herpes zoster can be managed with early acyclovir treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Early recognition of subtle infection signs in the elderly is crucial.
  • Vaccinations (influenza, pneumococcal) and prompt treatment are vital for prevention and management.
  • Infection control committees offer valuable guidance for healthcare settings.

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