Sepsis and Ageing: Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection that becomes more dangerous with age. As immune defences weaken and chronic conditions accumulate, older adults face a higher risk of severe complications. Understanding how to prevent, spot and respond to sepsis can protect your loved one and ensure prompt treatment when every moment counts.
Why Older Adults Are More Vulnerable
Adults aged 65 and over are thirteen times more likely to be hospitalised with sepsis than younger people. Age-related changes in immunity, together with long-term health issues such as diabetes, heart disease or chronic respiratory problems, make infections harder to fight. Repeat hospital stays for infections can also increase susceptibility to subsequent bouts of sepsis.
Chronic Conditions and Sepsis Risk
Conditions that commonly affect older adults can weaken the body’s defences:
- Diabetes impairs circulation and wound healing
- Heart disease strains the body’s systems
- Kidney problems disrupt toxin removal
- Respiratory illnesses make breathing infections more serious
Proper management of these illnesses—through medication, diet, and regular check-ups—reduces the chance that a minor infection will escalate.
Early Signs of Sepsis to Watch For
Sepsis may present differently in older adults, often without a high fever. Key warning signs include:
- Sudden Confusion or altered mental state
- Breathlessness or rapid breathing at rest
- Dizziness or low blood pressure on standing
- Unusual Body Temperature, either high or noticeably low
- Reduced Urine Output signaling kidney stress
- Severe Pain in the abdomen, chest, or joints
- Pale, Cold or Clammy Skin, or a new rash
If any of these symptoms occur, treat it as an emergency.
FAST Response: Act without Delay
As with stroke, time is crucial. On spotting any sepsis signs:
- Call 999 immediately
- Note the time symptoms began
- Keep them warm, but not overheated
- Do not give food or drink without medical advice
Early hospital assessment and intravenous antibiotics save lives.
Preventing Sepsis in Older Adults
The best defence is preventing infection in the first place:
- Keep Vaccinations Up to Date
Annual flu and pneumonia jabs are free on the NHS for over-65s. - Maintain Good Hygiene and Wound Care
Clean, dress and monitor any cuts or ulcers closely. - Manage Chronic Conditions
Attend routine check-ups and follow treatment plans. - Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished
Encourage a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. - Watch for Infection Early
Redness, swelling, pain or unusual discharge around wounds deserves prompt GP review.
Sepsis Recovery with Live-In Care
After surviving sepsis, many older adults need extra support during the recovery period. Live In Solutions’ live-in care offers:
- Medication Management and wound care
- Monitoring Vital Signs and hydration levels
- Assistance with Mobility to rebuild strength
- Nutritious Meal Preparation to aid healing
- Emotional Support in the familiar surroundings of home
Our CQC-registered carers tailor each plan to individual needs—whether you require a few hours’ support or full-time live-in care.
At Live In Solutions, we believe in empowering older adults to recover and thrive at home. Speak to our friendly team for a free, no-obligation assessment: 📞 01245 890336