Medilink

Continence difficulties are very common; some studies show 30 to 60% of women over 40 will suffer some symptoms of urinary incontinence; about half as many men are affected. Older people may become less mobile, their urinary system function may decline and they are more likely to suffer other diseases and conditions which affect continence.

There are treatments that can offer some level of symptom relief, but many do not provide a complete “cure” and some are less suitable for older people. Thus many older people have to cope with the constant requirement to manage their continence needs. Finding the most effective treatment for their symptoms, the best management, (especially outside the home) for their needs, and the most well designed management products, is essential for the maintenance of a good quality of life.

The impact of continence difficulties is far more than the physical effort and expense of coping with the day to day management. Incontinence is a precursor to social isolation, loss of self esteem and depression. Inability to cope with continence needs is a major reason why people move into residential care.

Maintenance of image and positive self-esteem is important for successful ageing. Large numbers of older people lives are negatively affected by continence difficulties. Therefore, it is essential that the best practice for continence health service provisions, the design of the environment and assistive technology development is applied.

Issues to be covered:

•Continence and identity
•Accessibility to public toilets
•Cost of incontinence
•Treatment and care for people with incontinence problems
•Absorbent pads and skin health
•Urinary tract infections
•Nutrition and incontinence

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