Genitourinary problems in the elderly in geriatric hospitals

ABSTRACT

Population analyses and demographic data have clearly documented the rapid growth of the aging population in recent years. Although the population over 65 currently accounts for approximately 13.2% of the total population in Korea, it is estimated that this number will reach at least 40% by 2060. Aging is associated with a general decline in almost every physiological function of biological systems, including the lower urinary tract. Aging is also known to put individuals at a high risk for urinary tract infections. Geriatric hospitals in Korea have undergone a large expansion in terms of the number of beds and institutions. Many elderly patients in geriatric hospitals suffer from various genitourinary disorders. In particular, voiding dysfunction and urinary tract infections are prevalent comorbidities of other chronic geriatric diseases in patients in geriatric hospitals. Careful monitoring and management can help to reduce those genitourinary problems in elderly patients in geriatric hospitals.