Infections in Aging Populations examines how biological aging, comorbidities, and healthcare exposure increase susceptibility to infectious diseases among older adults. As global populations age, infections in this group contribute disproportionately to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare utilization. Age-related immune changes, known as immunosenescence, alter host defense and complicate both prevention and treatment strategies.

Older adults experience distinct infection patterns compared to younger populations. Reduced immune responsiveness, chronic inflammation, and impaired barrier function increase vulnerability to respiratory, urinary, and bloodstream infections. Comorbid conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic lung disease further elevate risk. These age-specific dynamics are frequently addressed at Infectious Diseases Conference sessions, where demographic shifts are linked to evolving infection control priorities.

From a clinical standpoint, geriatric infectious disease management requires careful consideration of atypical presentation. Fever and classic inflammatory signs may be absent, while nonspecific symptoms such as confusion, functional decline, or appetite loss dominate. Delayed recognition contributes to worse outcomes, highlighting the need for age-adapted diagnostic criteria and heightened clinical vigilance in aging populations.

Healthcare exposure also shapes infection risk in older adults. Long-term care facilities, repeated hospitalizations, and medical device use increase opportunities for pathogen transmission. Antimicrobial exposure and polypharmacy complicate treatment, increasing the risk of adverse events and resistance. Coordinated care models that integrate infection prevention into chronic disease management are essential to reduce cumulative risk.

Prevention strategies for infections in aging populations must address both biological and social determinants. Vaccination remains a cornerstone, but immune response may be diminished, requiring optimized schedules and formulations. Infection prevention measures in residential care settings, caregiver education, and environmental controls reduce exposure risk. Community-based approaches that support aging in place can also lower infection burden by minimizing institutional exposure.

Surveillance and research focused on aging populations strengthen preparedness. Age-disaggregated data reveal trends that are obscured in aggregate reporting, enabling targeted intervention. Research into immune aging, microbiome changes, and host–pathogen interaction informs development of age-appropriate therapeutics and preventive tools.

Infections in aging populations represent a growing public health challenge. Addressing this challenge requires integration of geriatric principles into infectious disease practice, prevention policy, and health system design. By tailoring strategies to the needs of older adults, health systems can improve outcomes, preserve functional independence, and reduce avoidable healthcare burden.