Vancouver Senior Health | September 24, 2019
Urinary incontinence is the inability to control urine elimination – a condition that is fairly common in aging adults. Although many seniors may have more serious medical concerns to think about, untreated incontinence can cause several health complications, affect social connections, and ruin a person’s self-esteem.
For these reasons, successfully treating and managing incontinence is an important factor in maintaining independence and quality of life in senior years.
During urination, muscles known as urethral sphincters tighten to push urine from the bladder into a tube called the urethra. At the same time, the muscles around the urethra loosen up to allow the exit of urine.
When these sphincters are not working properly, incontinence occurs. In most cases, incontinence happens over short periods and is most commonly caused by an infection of the urinary tract or constipation or as the side effects of a newly introduced medication.
Depending on the frequency and intensity of incontinence, a doctor can recommend the following:
Introducing a few simple changes can help older adults manage their incontinence issues more effectively. Here are some suggestions.
Pelvic muscle exercises – Special exercises may help strengthen the muscles that control urination. This can significantly reduce and even eliminate incontinence.
Bladder training – Going to the bathroom on a predetermined timetable at, let’s say, every two hours can help older adults prevent involuntary leakage.
Fluid and diet management – Seniors should refrain from food and drinks known to irritate the bladder. Before making any dietary changes, aging adults should also make sure to discuss with their doctor.
Behavioural changes – Older adults can also improve incontinence by quitting alcohol and tobacco, avoiding beverages with high levels of caffeine. Also refrain from strenuous activities such as lifting objects that are too heavy.
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