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Urinary incontinence in a community-residing elderly population
T A Teasdale1, G E Taffet, R J Luchi
1Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Urinary incontinence affects 33% of active, community-residing older adults, with higher rates in women and those over 75. This common health issue impacts even healthy elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Urology
- Public Health
Background:
- Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition affecting older adults.
- Previous estimates may underestimate UI prevalence in functional community-residing elderly.
- Understanding UI in active seniors is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of urinary incontinence among active, retired older adults.
- To identify demographic factors associated with urinary incontinence in this population.
- To compare current findings with previous UI prevalence estimates.
Main Methods:
- A self-administered postal questionnaire was distributed to 843 members of a national association for retired persons.
- A 71% response rate (599 participants) was achieved.
- Data analysis focused on prevalence rates and associations with age, gender, and parity.
Main Results:
- 33% of respondents reported experiencing some form of urinary incontinence.
- Urinary incontinence was more common in females (37%) and individuals aged 75 and older.
- High parity (≥4 births) was significantly associated with UI in females (P=0.04).
Conclusions:
- Urinary incontinence is a significant health concern, even in functionally independent elderly individuals.
- Prevalence estimates are higher than previously reported, with notable associations by age and gender.
- The findings highlight the need for greater awareness and management of UI in community-dwelling seniors.