Determinants of diurnal bladder control with institutionalized mentally retarded individuals

The level of diurnal bladder control of 209 persons from two residential facilities for mentally retarded individuals was investigated. Seven independent variables pertaining to individual and environmental characteristics were related to the level of bladder control. A multiple regression analysis revealed that the level of bladder control was related to the size of the residents' living groups as well as their accessibility to the toilet facility. Several post hoc statistical tests indicated differences between female and male and older and younger residents on variables such as size of living group, age of admission, and access to ward's toilet facility. Results were discussed in terms of their use for toilet-training efforts and providers of services to institutionalized retarded persons.