Infections in the elderly do not always present with "normal" symptoms as in younger people. Often, symptoms are vague and misleading, and a change in mental status or a decline in function may be the only signs noted when an infection is present.

Risk Factors

• Age
• History of infections
• Inadequate nutrition
• Incontinence
• Medications
• Poor personal hygiene
• Weight loss
• Pressure sores
• Immobility
• Certain medical conditions including, but not limited to, diabetes cancer terminal illnesses, and dementia
• Failure to follow the physician’s plan of care