Sepsis and Ageing: Prevention Tips for Older Adults

As we age, our bodies can become more vulnerable to health issues, and one of the most serious risks for older adults is sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to infection goes into overdrive. It can develop rapidly and is particularly dangerous for older people due to changes in the immune system, chronic health conditions and the sometimes slower response to symptoms.

Learning more about sepsis in older adults can help you take steps to protect yourself or your loved ones, recognise the early signs and ensure timely treatment. Being informed is the first step in reducing the risks and keeping older adults safe and well.

Why are older adults at risk for sepsis?

Sepsis can affect people of all ages, but older adults, particularly those aged 65 and over, are at a significantly higher risk. Adults aged 65 and older are 13 times more likely to be hospitalised with sepsis than younger individuals. This heightened vulnerability is primarily due to a weakened immune system, which naturally occurs with age.

The immune system becomes less effective as we age, making it harder for the body to combat infections. This increased susceptibility to infections, especially in those with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, significantly raises the risk of infections turning into sepsis. Furthermore, older adults with weakened immunity are more likely to experience repeat hospitalisations for sepsis, often due to recurrent sepsis or other infections.

Chronic health conditions and increased sepsis risk

Older adults with chronic health conditions are particularly vulnerable to sepsis. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory illnesses and kidney disease can impair the body’s ability to fight infections, increasing the likelihood of infections turning into sepsis. These chronic conditions place additional strain on the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to mount an effective response against bacteria or viruses.

As people age, the risk of multiple chronic conditions also rises, compounding the challenge of preventing sepsis. For instance, people with diabetes are at greater risk of developing infections, and conditions like heart disease or kidney problems can further weaken the body’s natural defences.

Delayed diagnosis and treatment of sepsis in older adults

One of the most significant challenges with sepsis in older adults is the delayed recognition and treatment. As people age, symptoms of infections and sepsis can be more subtle or mistaken for other common health issues, such as fatigue, confusion or general weakness. Cognitive decline, such as dementia, can further complicate this, making it harder for older adults to recognise the seriousness of their symptoms.

Sepsis in older adults is often not immediately identified because they may not display the classic signs, like fever or rapid breathing, which are more commonly seen in younger individuals. Untreated sepsis or delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe complications.

How to spot sepsis in older adults

Sepsis can be difficult to spot in older adults because its symptoms may not be as clear or obvious as in younger people. Older adults may not show the typical signs of infection, and some symptoms can be confused with other age-related conditions.

Here are some key signs to look out for:

1. Confusion or altered mental state

Sepsis can cause confusion, delirium or a sudden change in behaviour, especially in older adults. If a previously alert individual suddenly becomes disoriented, forgetful or agitated, it could be a sign of sepsis or a related infection.

2. Rapid breathing or shortness of breath

A person with sepsis may start breathing rapidly or have difficulty breathing, even when they are resting. This can be a sign that the body is struggling to get enough oxygen or that the infection is affecting the lungs.

3. Low blood pressure or dizziness

Sepsis can lead to low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness or light-headedness, especially when standing up. This can increase the risk of falls, which is a significant concern for older adults.

High fever or low body temperature

While fever is a common sign of infection, older adults may experience a lower-than-normal body temperature instead of a high fever. This can make it harder to recognise that sepsis is developing. Either extreme could indicate sepsis.

5. Decreased urine output

A drop in urine output or difficulty urinating can be a sign that the kidneys are starting to shut down due to sepsis. If your loved one is passing significantly less urine than usual or none at all, it is a cause for concern.

6. Severe pain or discomfort

Older adults with sepsis may complain of pain or discomfort in specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, chest or joints. This pain can be a sign that sepsis is affecting internal organs.

7. Skin changes

Look for pale, cold or clammy skin, or even the development of spots or rashes. Skin discolouration or abnormal temperature changes can be signs that the body is not receiving enough blood flow due to sepsis.

Preventing sepsis in older adults

While sepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, there are several proactive steps that can help reduce the risk of older adults developing sepsis. Preventing infections in the first place is key, as infections are the primary cause of sepsis.

Here are some important measures to take:

1. Regular vaccinations

Ensuring that older adults are up to date with their vaccinations is an essential step in preventing infections that could lead to sepsis. Vaccines for pneumonia, flu and other infections can help protect against illnesses that could result in sepsis. The NHS has useful information on the most important vaccines for older adults over 65.

2. Proper wound care and hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene and properly treating any wounds or cuts is critical to preventing infections. Any open wounds should be cleaned and dressed properly, and it’s important to monitor them for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling.

3. Managing chronic conditions

Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and respiratory issues, can increase the risk of infections. Properly anaging these conditions through regular check-ups, medications and lifestyle adjustments can reduce the likelihood of infections turning into sepsis.

4. Staying hydrated and eating well

Good nutrition and hydration are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, can help support the body’s ability to fight infections. Drinking enough fluids is also important to prevent dehydration, which can lead to complications.

5. Monitoring for signs of infection

Promptly recognising and treating infections is key to preventing sepsis. Keep an eye out for early signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling or pain, and seek medical attention if these symptoms arise.

Sepsis care at home

If you or your loved one is recovering from sepsis, home care provides the essential support needed for a safe and comfortable recovery. Sepsis recovery can be challenging, but with the right care at home, individuals can receive help with medication management, wound care, monitoring vital signs and assistance with daily activities, all in the comfort of familiar surroundings.

With Trinity Homecare, you can trust that your loved one will receive compassionate, professional sepsis care at home  tailored to their specific needs. Our experienced carers are dedicated to supporting independence and improving well-being, ensuring your loved ones can recover comfortably at home.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home.

We offer a range of home care services to support your independence and well-being, so you can continue living life on your terms without the need for a care home.

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