Library of Frequently Asked Questions
Urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence (in-KON-tin-ence) is the medical term for uncontrolled urination. This is a common problem among older adults. Approximately one in ten people aged sixty-five and older experience some form of incontinence - ranging from mild to severe - and women are affected more than men.
At the first sign of incontinence, you should see a doctor for a complete medical examination. The cause may be as simple as a urinary tract infection or other condition, which can be controlled or cured. In women, it’s also possible that the pelvic muscles have weakened, causing urination to occur when lifting, laughing, or coughing. Your doctor may prescribe certain medications or recommend exercises that can help correct the problem.
In some cases, surgery may be needed. If the condition is incurable, there are ways to manage incontinence, such as making frequent trips to the bathroom or using disposable undergarments to soak up urine and reduce odor.
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