Behavioral interventions for incontinence in ambulatory geriatric patients

Behavioral intervention is a group of therapies used to modify stress, urge, or mixed urinary incontinence by changing patient bladder habits or by teaching new skills. Three broad categories of behavioral treatment are reviewed: pelvic muscle exercise, biofeedback, and bladder training. The literature concerning each of these methods indicates that the treatments are effective for most community-dwelling older adults. More research is needed to identify the best methods for implementing these treatments, to explore the role of various components of treatment packages, to examine issues of durability, and to improve adherence to behavioral protocols necessary for long-term effectiveness.