Yes. A UTI in an elderly parent can cause sudden confusion or odd behavior. Any sudden change in thinking is a reason to call the doctor the same day.
This kind of sudden, severe confusion is called delirium. Infections such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia can cause it. Other UTI signs may include burning when passing urine, needing to go more often, belly or back pain, fever or tiredness.
Confusion does not always mean a UTI, so the doctor may look for other causes too. Do not wait to see if it passes. If your parent seems very ill and you cannot reach the doctor, get urgent care. In an emergency, call 911.
Write down when the change started so you can tell the doctor. To compare this with slower changes, read about normal forgetfulness and warning signs.
It depends on your plan, so ask your benefits office. For most parents 65 and older, the main source of health coverage is Medicare, not a family member’s plan.
Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. Some younger people with certain disabilities can also get it.
Many people add a Medigap policy, which helps pay their share of costs in Original Medicare. Others choose a Medicare Advantage plan instead.
If your parent has limited income and savings, Medicaid may help pay premiums and other costs. For free, one-on-one help comparing choices, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Learn more in our answer on Medicaid for an elderly parent and on our Planning Ahead topic page.
The right pill dispenser depends on how many medicines your parent takes and how well they remember doses. The two main types are simple pill organizers and automatic dispensers with alarms.
If your parent might take extra doses, keep the main supply in a locked drawer or cabinet. Look for large labels, lids that are easy to open and a size that holds 7 to 28 days. Ask the pharmacist to help you pick one and fill it. Our medication management checklist covers the rest of the routine.
Keep meals calm and simple. Serve one or two foods at a time in a quiet room, and offer bite-sized foods your parent can pick up on their own.
Other tips that help many families:
– Use a plate that stands out from the placemat so food is easier to see.
– Turn off the TV and other distractions.
– Cut food into small, soft pieces that are easy to chew.
– Offer small cups of water or juice through the day.
– Eat together when you can.
– Offer smaller meals and calorie-rich snacks more often.
Eating may hurt, and your parent may not be able to tell you. Check that dentures fit and keep up with dental visits. Call the doctor if your parent eats less after a new medicine or is losing weight. See the stages of dementia for changes to expect.
Healthy meals for seniors living alone can be simple. Aim for fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein foods like fish, beans, eggs or chicken. Easy, ready-to-heat options make it more likely your parent will eat well.
If cooking is hard, meal programs can help. People 60 and older can often get meals delivered at home or served at a community site. To find one near your parent, call the Eldercare Locator. The number is 1-800-677-1116.
For more everyday tips, see our Health & Daily Life topic.
Signs of malnutrition in an older parent include weight loss, tiredness and dizziness. You may also spot clues at home, such as loose clothes or very little food in the kitchen.
If you see these signs, tell your parent’s doctor and ask about their risk. Call promptly if your parent has lost more than 10 pounds without trying. Low mood, grief and some medicines can affect appetite, so mention these too. Read what to do when your parent is not eating for practical next steps.
Having food in the kitchen does not explain whether meals are manageable. Consider the effort involved in shopping, opening packages, preparing ingredients, and cleaning up before discussing where help is welcome.
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