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Special considerations in elderly individuals with urinary incontinence
1University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Fayetteville, USA.
Urology
|March 12, 1998
Summary
Urinary incontinence (UI) in the elderly presents complex causes and requires tailored evaluations. Managing bladder overactivity is key to improving quality of life for older adults with UI.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Urology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Urinary incontinence (UI) affects a significant portion of the elderly population.
- The etiology and presentation of UI in older adults differ from younger individuals.
- Special considerations are necessary for the effective management of UI in geriatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the unique aspects of urinary incontinence (UI) in the elderly.
- To detail the specific etiology, evaluation, and treatment strategies for geriatric UI.
- To highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing UI in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Contrasting UI characteristics in older versus younger patients.
- Reviewing recommended evaluations for elderly individuals with UI.
- Addressing specific treatment challenges and options for geriatric UI.
Main Results:
- UI etiology is more complex in the elderly, often involving bladder overactivity.
- Urgency with urge UI is the most common symptom in older patients.
- Comprehensive evaluation includes symptom assessment, physical exam, history, social/functional status, and urodynamics.
Conclusions:
- Controlling bladder overactivity is the primary long-term challenge in managing elderly UI.
- Effective UI management significantly enhances the quality of life for older individuals.
- Combination therapies, including surgical and nonsurgical options, show future promise.