Incontinence, or a loss of bladder control, is a distressing and sensitive issue, particularly for seniors. It can lead to a variety of concerns, from skin sores to social reclusiveness for individuals who are nervous about leaving the house in case of an “accident.” Yet while bladder leakage causes as many as 25 million people in the U.S. to suffer with complications, the affliction seldom receives the attention and dialogue it needs. With a lack of communication and information about elderly incontinence, many seniors and those who care for them feel as though there’s nothing that can be done about it.
However, senior incontinence is not unavoidable as people age. While many older individuals do find that their bladders may be “weak,” causing leaks, sometimes the problem has a quick and easy solution.
Below are just a few bladder leakage problems that can be treated:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
UTIs, otherwise known as bladder infections, lead to an overwhelming need to pass urine. In younger people, this sensation is noticeable, but it isn’t always as recognizable for older individuals. If a senior presents with sudden urinary incontinence when this was not a difficulty before, check for additional signs that suggest a UTI, such as:
- Sudden confusion or agitation
- Hallucinations
- Other behavioral changes
- Poor motor skills
- Falls
You may also detect:
- Strong smelling urine
Cloudy urine, or blood in the urine - Fever
- Complaints of pain when urinating
- Complaints of pressure or pain in the abdomen
- Night sweats
If you think your loved one may have a UTI, the senior needs to be examined by the doctor and have his or her urine checked. Once the infection has been treated, the incontinence should be resolved or lessened.
Loss of mobility
As mobility reduces, incontinence can develop into an issue. The need to urinate may come on suddenly and the older person may not be able to get to the bathroom fast enough. This could also be a concern in the evenings, as it often takes longer to get out of bed to go to the bathroom, and waking up in the middle of the night can also create some confusion.
For older adults with mobility issues, an in-home evaluation from one of our in-home care experts can help offer suggestions.
Medications
Certain drugs, like diuretics, boost the level of urine produced, triggering an increased urge to urinate. If your loved one is on a medication that boosts urine production, it is important to keep this in mind when the person has to leave home or is not close to a readily available bathroom.
At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, we understand how UTIs, senior incontinence, and other senior health issues can affect quality of life. Our highly trained Midland, MI senior care team provides a wide range of home care services, including ambulation and assistance using the bathroom, medication reminders, bathing and grooming assistance, and more, to help a senior loved one live his or her best life. Contact us today at 877.308.1212 to learn more about our expert elder care in Midland, MI and the surrounding communities.