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Special health services--an introduction to a programme for elderly women with urinary incontinence and related
D Mellström1, P Ekelund, I Milsom
1Department of Geriatric and Long-term Care Medicine, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
Abstract:
Urinary incontinence and related urogenital symptoms can be considered to constitute a concealed yet widespread disease amongst elderly women. The problems are to a large extent related to hormonal changes associated with the ageing process. The symptoms have been reported to occur in more than 50% of elderly women. Like severe angina pectoris, osteoarthrosis of the hip and cataract, urinary incontinence and related symptoms may negatively influence the quality of life and reduce the individual's degree of independency. A health care programme, based on an algorithmic model, for the investigation and treatment of urinary incontinence and related symptoms is described. A representative sample of elderly women aged 65-85 yr suffering from urogenital symptoms are currently participating in this programme. The aim is to cure or alleviate urogenital symptoms amongst the elderly women concerned and to assess the value of the programme from a cost-benefit point of view.