Chest Infections in the Elderly: Signs and When to Seek Help

Chest infections are common in older people, especially during the colder months. While many infections are mild and clear up with rest, in later life they can become more serious and lead to further health problems if not treated early. For someone who is already frail or living with other conditions, even a mild infection can quickly become more difficult to manage.

Older adults may not always show the usual signs of illness, which is why it’s important to know what to look out for and when to get help. Spotting the symptoms early, offering the right support at home and knowing when to speak to a doctor can all help prevent complications and aid recovery.

In this guide, we’ll explain what chest infections are, why they affect older people more often and what you can do to help someone feel better and stay well.

What is a chest infection?

A chest infection is an illness that affects the lungs or airways. It’s often caused by a virus or bacteria and can range from mild to more serious. The most common types of chest infections are bronchitis and pneumonia.

Bronchitis affects the larger airways and usually causes a persistent cough with phlegm. It’s often caused by a virus and may clear up on its own with rest and fluids.
Pneumonia is an infection in the smaller airways and air sacs in the lungs. It’s more serious and often needs medical treatment, especially in older adults.

Chest infections may develop after a cold or flu, particularly if someone is already feeling weak or has another long-term health condition. For older people, these infections can become more severe because the immune system is not as strong as it once was. Recovery may take longer and symptoms can affect energy levels, appetite and daily routines.

It’s important to watch for signs early, so treatment can begin as soon as possible and complications can be avoided.

Signs and symptoms to look out for

Chest infections can sometimes be difficult to spot, especially in older adults where the symptoms may be more subtle. Knowing what to look out for can help you act quickly and get the right support.

Common signs of a chest infection include:

A cough that doesn’t go away, often bringing up phlegm
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain or tightness, especially when coughing or breathing in
A high temperature, shivering or feeling unusually cold
Feeling very tired or weak
A sudden loss of appetite
Confusion or drowsiness, especially in people with dementia
A general sense that the person is “not themselves”

Some older people may not have a high temperature but might become quieter, sleep more or seem more confused. These changes should always be taken seriously and discussed with a doctor, especially if they happen suddenly.

Why older people are more at risk

Chest infections can affect anyone, but they tend to be more serious in older adults. As we age, the body becomes less able to fight off illness, and other health conditions can make recovery slower or more difficult.

Here are some reasons why older people are more at risk:

Weakened immune system – The immune system becomes less efficient with age, making it harder to fight off infections.
Long-term health conditions – Issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure or diabetes can increase the risk and severity of chest infections.
Reduced mobility – Being less active can affect lung function and make it harder to clear mucus from the lungs.
Swallowing difficulties – Some older adults may accidentally breathe in small amounts of food or drink, which can lead to an infection in the lungs (known as aspiration pneumonia).
Living in shared settings – Care homes or hospital stays can increase exposure to infections from others.
Poor nutrition or dehydration – These can weaken the body’s ability to recover from illness.

When to seek medical help

Chest infections in older people should never be ignored. While some mild infections may improve with rest and fluids, others can get worse quickly and lead to serious complications if left untreated.

You should contact a doctor as soon as possible if the person:

Has trouble breathing or seems short of breath even at rest
Has chest pain, tightness or discomfort when breathing or coughing
Has a high temperature that isn’t going down
Becomes confused, unusually drowsy or difficult to wake
Has blue or grey lips, fingers or toes (a sign they aren’t getting enough oxygen)
Stops eating or drinking and seems very weak
Already has a condition like COPD, heart disease or dementia, and is showing signs of being more unwell than usual

Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s always better to check with a GP or call 111 for advice. Early treatment can help prevent complications and support a quicker recovery.

How chest infections are treated

The treatment for a chest infection depends on what’s causing it and how unwell the person is. In older adults, early and careful treatment is especially important to help avoid complications and support recovery.

Common treatments include:

Antibiotics – If the infection is caused by bacteria (such as in pneumonia), a course of antibiotics may be prescribed. These are usually taken as tablets, but more severe cases may require antibiotics through a drip in hospital.
Rest and fluids – Encouraging the person to rest and drink regularly is essential. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus in the lungs, making it easier to clear, and also supports the body’s ability to fight infection.
Managing fever and discomfort – Paracetamol can help bring down a high temperature and ease aches and pains. Always follow advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
Inhalers or oxygen – For people with existing breathing conditions, a doctor might suggest inhalers or oxygen therapy to ease symptoms and support breathing.
Monitoring for complications – In more serious cases, especially if the person becomes very breathless or weak, hospital care may be needed. This ensures they receive close monitoring and more advanced treatment if necessary.

How can Country Cousins help?

Since 1959, we’ve been helping people live comfortably and safely in their own homes with the support of a carefully matched live-in carer. As the UK’s longest-serving introductory live-in care agency, we understand the value of continuity, compassion and familiar surroundings. Whether it’s ongoing support or more specialist care, we’re here to make life easier for you and your loved ones.

Learn more about our elderly care at home.

Talk to our team today

If you or a loved one are exploring live-in care, speak with one of our friendly team today. They can provide expert advice and guidance on the best option for your needs.

Give us a call today on 01293 224 706. Our experienced team is on hand to help from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. Alternatively, contact us through our online enquiry form.