A UTI in older women can show up in subtle ways.

You might feel more tired or irritable than usual, a little foggy, or just not quite yourself.

These vague symptoms often signal a urinary tract infection, especially if you also experience bladder leaks or incontinence.

The good news is that a few simple changes can help prevent UTIs and keep you feeling your best.

Whether this is your first UTI, you’ve had them before, or you’re caring for someone at risk, this guide will help you understand and manage UTIs in older women.

Key Takeaways 

• UTI Symptoms in Older Women Are Often Atypical
  Older women may not always experience the classic symptoms like burning or frequent urination. Instead, early signs can include confusion, fatigue, or appetite loss. Recognizing these subtle changes can help catch UTIs before they get worse.
  

• Age-Related Factors Increase UTI Risk
  Weakened bladder muscles, hormonal changes, and reduced mobility make older women more prone to UTIs. These changes make it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract or linger in the bladder.
  

• Incontinence Can Worsen the Risk Without Proper Protection
  Bladder leaks create moist environments that allow bacteria to thrive. Wearing the wrong product or not changing it often enough adds to the risk. Managing moisture effectively is key to prevention.
  

• Simple Habits Can Prevent Recurrent UTI
  Daily practices like drinking enough water, maintaining hygiene, double-voiding, and using the bathroom on time can dramatically lower the chances of frequent UTI.
  

• For Incontinence-Linked UTIs, UraGuard® Offers Extra Protection
  If you’re dealing with incontinence, UraGuard® provides an added layer of defense. This thin liner fits easily inside your incontinence product and helps reduce exposure to UTI-causing bacteria.

Let’s Unpack: 

• What Are the Symptoms of UTI in Older Women?
• What Causes UTI in Older Women?
• What Complications Can UTIs Cause in Older Women?
• How Are UTIs Diagnosed in Older Women?
• How Are UTIs Treated in Older Women?
• How Can UTIs Be Prevented in Older Women?

What Are the Symptoms of UTI in Older Women?

Typical symptoms of a urinary tract infection include: 

• Frequent urination or a constant urge to pee
• A burning sensation during urination
• Cloudy urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen

These classic symptoms are often easy to notice as they cause a lot of discomfort.

However, the early signs of a UTI can sometimes look very different in older women. Instead of the typical symptoms, you might notice more subtle or unusual changes, such as:

• New or increased incontinence
• Confusion or changes in mental alertness or behavior
• Fatigue or general weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat
  

These symptoms are easy to miss or mistake for something else — a UTI is often the last thing you'd think of. But if you notice such changes, please check with your family physician. 

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you experience any of the UTI symptoms mentioned above. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you:

• Have a high fever or chills
• Have a low body temperature (below 36°C or 96.8°F)
• Feel unusually drowsy or confused
• Experience pain in your lower abdomen or back (just below the ribs)
• Notice blood in your urine 

What Causes UTIs in Older Women?

UTIs usually happen when bacteria (and sometimes fungi) enter your urinary tract. 

The most common culprit is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a type of bacteria that usually lives in your intestines.

In women, the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) sits very close to the anus. That makes it easier for stool bacteria like E. coli to sneak into the urethra and move up into the bladder, leading to a UTI. 

Why Are Older Women at a Higher Risk for UTIs?

While UTIs can occur at any age, older women are more vulnerable due to age-related changes in the urinary system and body function, such as:

• Urinary incontinence or loss of bowel control
• Weakened bladder function
• Hormonal changes
• Reduced mobility
• Underlying health conditions  

Let’s explore each one in detail:

1. Incontinence

Sudden urinary incontinence or bowel leaks are common in older women and can be difficult to manage. 

When the area around the urethra stays damp, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Those bacteria can then enter the urinary tract and cause infection.

To help reduce exposure and support urinary health, use a protective liner like UraGuard®. 

Protect Yourself From Incontinence-Related UTIs With UraGuard® 

UraGuard® is an ultra-thin, comfortable liner that helps reduce your risk of UTIs linked to incontinence. 

Specifically designed for women, UraGuard® fits inside your incontinence brief or diaper. It forms a protective barrier over the urethra and helps block infection-causing bacteria (urinary or fecal) from entering the urinary tract.

This added layer of protection works within your standard incontinence product to maintain urinary health and lower the risk of infection.

It’s discreet, stays in place, and easily fits your routine!

If leaks are part of your daily life, try UraGuard® to stay protected and feel confident doing the things you love.

2. Weakened Bladder Function

As we age, the bladder can lose strength and elasticity.  

This can make it harder for an older person to fully empty their bladder during urination — a condition known as urinary retention.

The leftover urine (called residual urine) can create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Over time, this buildup can also lead to sudden urinary incontinence or accidental leaks.

Important: A urinary catheter can help empty your bladder, but long-term use might increase the risk of infection. Bacteria can travel along the catheter and enter the bladder. To reduce risk, wash your hands before handling the urinary catheter and keep the area clean. 

3. Hormonal Changes

Hormones like estrogen play a key role in maintaining your urinary health. 

But your estrogen levels can start to drop during perimenopause — the stage just before menopause, and may fall more sharply during menopause. 

This hormonal shift can cause the lining of the urethra to become thinner, making it easier for bacteria to enter and cause infections. 

That’s why older women, especially those aged 65 and above, face a higher risk of chronic UTIs. A 2019 study found that UTIs come back in about 19% to 36% of premenopausal women and in up to 55% of postmenopausal women.   

4. Reduced Mobility

Mobility often declines with age, especially if you’re dealing with arthritis or other physical limitations. 

An older person may not be able to reach the bathroom easily or change incontinence products as often as needed. Sitting or lying down for long periods can also make it harder to empty your bladder fully.

These challenges create ideal conditions for bacteria to grow, raising the risk of UTIs for older adults.

5. Underlying Health Issues

Chronic health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or neurological disorders can weaken the immune system. This makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. 

A weakened immune system can also lead to frequent UTIs in elderly patients. If you’ve had two or more infections in six months, or three or more in a year, it’s considered a recurrent UTI. 

In older women, recognizing UTI symptoms and their causes isn’t always easy. 

As a result, you might overlook them, which can lead to more serious health issues. 

What Complications Can UTIs Cause in Older Women?

If not treated in time, UTIs in older patients can lead to:

• Delirium: This is a sudden change in mental state that may show up as confusion or memory loss. Older patients with delirium may be aggressive, restless, withdrawn, or even experience hallucinations.
  
  
• Kidney infection: If a bladder infection is left untreated, bacteria can travel to the kidneys, causing a kidney infection or upper UTI. This is more serious than an uncomplicated urinary tract infection and can lead to scarring, kidney disease, and even kidney failure.
  
  
• Sepsis: In the most severe cases, a prolonged UTI can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening response where the body’s immune system turns on itself. The risk of sepsis increases if the infection spreads to the kidneys or bloodstream.

By spotting the symptoms and seeing a doctor early, you can stop a UTI before it becomes more serious.

How Are UTIs Diagnosed in Older Women?

UTIs can be harder to detect in peri or postmenopausal women because the usual urinary symptoms, like pain while peeing or abdominal discomfort, don’t always appear. 

That’s why doctors rely on urine sample tests to confirm a bladder infection:

• Urine analysis (urinalysis): This test checks your urine for signs of infection. The doctor may immediately test a urine sample or send it to a lab for a closer look.

• Urine culture: A culture can pinpoint the exact bacteria causing the infection, helping the doctor choose the proper treatment. 

Once an infection is confirmed, the doctor can start treatment.

How Are UTIs Treated in Older Women?

Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. In rare cases, where a fungus is the culprit, doctors may prescribe antifungal medicine instead. 

• If your symptoms are mild or vague, doctors might wait for the urine culture to return before starting antibiotics.

• If you require urgent treatment, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics like Nitrofurantoin or Keflex. Once the culture results come in, your doctor may switch you to a medication that targets the specific bacteria more precisely.

Antibiotics usually work well for an uncomplicated urinary tract infection. 

However, the body may not respond as quickly to medicines in older adults, and the infection can take longer to clear. If your urinary symptoms don’t improve or if you have chronic UTIs, the doctor might prescribe a more potent antibiotic or a longer (low-dose) treatment.  

In more serious cases, they may also suggest hospitalization or home care.

But it doesn’t have to get to that point. 

With a few simple but consistent habits, you can lower your risk of infections and feel more in control of your health. 

How Can UTIs Be Prevented in Older Women?

Here are seven simple UTI prevention tips for older women:

1. Use the Right Incontinence Products and Add a Shield Like UraGuard®  

When managing incontinence, choose products that offer good absorption, breathability, and comfort. 

Look for ones that are made with moisture-wicking layers and skin-friendly materials to help prevent dampness and irritation.

For added protection, pair your incontinence wear with UraGuard® — a discreet liner that sits over the urethra and helps block infection-causing bacteria.

UraGuard® offers:

• A lab-tested shield for bacteria
• Targeted protection around the urethra to block the entry of germs
• Ultra-light, flexible design that moves comfortably with your body
• Discreet fit for all-day wear

Your incontinence wear handles the leaks, and UraGuard® reduces your exposure to bacteria. Together, they help you stay dry, clean, and lower your risk of infection.

2. Maintain Better Hygiene Habits

Regularly clean your genital area with unscented soap and warm water. 

Always wipe from front to back, especially after using the toilet, to avoid spreading bacteria to the urethra.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Fiber-Rich Foods

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim for around 9 cups (2.2 litres or 72 ounces) a day. 

Combine hydration with a fiber-rich diet to keep your digestion smooth and lower your risk of UTIs. Constipation may put extra pressure on the bladder, which can lead to urinary retention and increase the risk of an infection. 

Some easy, high-fiber options to add to your meals include:

• Apple (with skin)
• Banana
• Green peas (boiled)
• Broccoli (boiled)
• Bran flakes
• Quinoa (cooked)

4. Change Incontinence Products Regularly

Sitting in wet or soiled incontinence wear for too long gives bacteria the perfect place to grow — that's how pads can cause UTIs. 

To stay clean and comfortable, change incontinence products as soon as they feel damp or every 4 to 6 hours.   

5. Empty the Bladder Completely

Try out a process called “double voiding”, which can help you empty the bladder fully and reduce the risk of UTIs.

Here’s how to do it:

• Sit on the toilet comfortably and lean forward slightly — this helps your bladder drain more easily.
• Relax and let your urine flow naturally. Avoid pushing or straining.
• After you finish, stay seated for about 20 to 30 seconds.
• Then try to pee again — often, a bit more will come out.
• If you still feel full, gently lean forward, rock side to side, or sit up straighter. You can even stand, move a bit, and sit back down to try again.

You can also try using a commode chair or a cushioned toilet seat to help you sit comfortably and make it easier to empty your bladder fully. 

6. Make Bathroom Access Easier  

If you’re a caregiver, make sure the bathroom is easy to reach and safe for elderly patients.

Consider installing safety features like grab bars or non-slip mats, and using portable commodes if the walk to the bathroom is long or challenging. These changes support both safety and dignity for a loved one in a home care setting.

7. Use Vaginal Estrogen

As estrogen levels drop with age, the tissues around the urinary tract can become thinner and more vulnerable to infection. 

Low estrogen levels are strongly linked to chronic and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Vaginal estrogen is a low-dose treatment applied directly to the vaginal area. It can boost tissue health, revitalize the urinary system, and help in UTI prevention.

If you’re in perimenopause, postmenopause, or unsure where you fall, talk to your family physician to see if you could use vaginal estrogen. 

Shield Yourself with UraGuard®  

UTIs are common in older women, but they don’t have to be a part of your life. 

By spotting the signs early and making a few changes to your lifestyle, you can protect your health and reduce your risk.

If you or your loved one has incontinence, UraGuard® can help by adding an extra layer of protection against bacteria while keeping things comfortable.

Feel more at ease every day. Try UraGuard® today.