Urinary Incontinence Among Older Women

For women, urinary incontinence and other related lower urinary tract symptoms (e.g., nocturia, urinary urgency, frequency) are common, often increasing as women age. Urinary incontinence, however, is more than just a physiologic loss of urine. Emotional distress is also a significant issue for incontinent individuals. Researchers and clinicians are increasingly aware of the importance of identifying urinary incontinence and, in particular, urinary incontinence that causes distress or adversely effects health-related quality of life. This article addresses the effect of urinary incontinence on health-related quality of life among elderly women. Selected methods for evaluating health-related quality of life are highlighted and discussed. Suggestions are included for gerontological nurses interested in evaluating the effect of urinary incontinence on older women.