Promoting urinary continence with older people: a selective literature review

Abstract

As the population of older people increases so does the prevalence of urinary incontinence experienced. Despite its complex aetiology most of the contributing factors are reversible, when accurate assessment leads to the development of a person-centred continence care plan. This selective literature review highlights that a change in perspective among older people and healthcare professionals will enable a focus on bladder rehabilitation and proactive approaches to managing urinary incontinence, even in the very frail population. The need to design tools to facilitate such developments is discussed together with the need for greater focus on educational support that considers the wider context and the multiple factors that influence practice.