Strategies to cope with incontinence
Lack of bladder or bowel control is common and can often be treated or managed successfully.
Incontinence means accidentally losing control of the bladder or bowel. It may involve a small urine leak when coughing or laughing, a sudden need to rush to the toilet, or accidental bowel soiling.
Although the likelihood increases with age, incontinence is not an inevitable or “normal” part of ageing. It is a health condition that can often be treated or managed successfully.
Many Australians experience continence difficulties. Recent estimates from Continence Health Australia indicate that more than 7.2 million Australians aged 15 and over have some form of incontinence.
Almost half of people living in residential aged care and nearly one in five people receiving home-care packages experienced incontinence in 2023.
Older people may develop incontinence for many reasons. Possible contributors include constipation, urinary tract infections, reduced mobility, menopause, prostate problems, diabetes, dementia, neurological conditions and the side effects of some medicines.
Incontinence can also occur when the muscles supporting the bladder and bowel, known as the pelvic floor, become weaker.
Because different conditions need different treatments, the first step is to speak with a GP, continence nurse specialist, or pelvic health physiotherapist.
A health professional may ask about symptoms, check current medicines, perform an examination or recommend tests.
Keeping a bladder or bowel diary for several days can help identify patterns, including how often you use the toilet, what you drink and when leakage occurs.
Treatment might include pelvic floor muscle exercises, bladder training, or changes to toilet habits. Managing constipation, eating enough fibre, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can also help.
Unless a doctor advises otherwise, people should continue drinking adequate fluids, as deliberately drinking too little may cause dehydration or worsen constipation. Tea, coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks can aggravate urgency for some people, so individual advice is important.
Medicines or specialist treatment may be appropriate in some cases. Pads, protective underwear, and bedding products can provide extra confidence while treatment takes effect, but they should not replace a proper assessment.
Most importantly, do not let embarrassment prevent you from seeking help. For free, confidential advice, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66, or speak with your GP.
Related reading: Healthdirect, Continence Australia, RACGP
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a registered healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
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