Incontinence - A delicate subject to discuss

Incontinence can be a difficult subject for your patients/clients to discuss, because there is such a societal taboo around this subject. It is also a very “private” aspect of one’s life. 

The truth is that it's a very common condition, and in most cases is manageable once the problem is identified. 

According to the Continence Foundation of Australia, 65% of women and 30% of men report some type of urinary incontinence, yet only 31% of these people report having sought help from a health professional (1)

Anecdotal evidence has also shown that it takes 7 years for a person with incontinence to raise the topic with a healthcare professional. 

Once you do open the conversation, emphasising that it is common and informing them of some well- known statistics and reasons for it, may help them feel they are not alone and can do something about it.

Often incontinence is not part of a routine assessment, and is therefore not “flagged” on an assessment tool, and healthcare professionals need to discuss more critical issues and there may be little time left to discuss this topic.

Treat incontinence just as you would treat any other discussion about the individual’s health. Bladder control issues are common and treatment is often available.

Incontinence can affect people of all ages, not just the elderly. Prostate conditions, pregnancy and menopause can all cause bladder weakness issues. Read more about the common causes of incontinence

Incontinence conditions are often manageable but many people believe it’s a natural sign of ageing or simply can’t be cured. By telling them that the majority of incontinence cases can be significantly improved, it is far easier for them to face their condition and to start discussing treatment.

Losing bladder or bowel control can be very upsetting, so excusing it as a ‘one-off’, even when it becomes increasingly regular is not uncommon. Some well-meaning carers go along with the pretence, but recognising and actively managing frequent urination or continence issues, rather than dealing with “accidents”, is more dignified for everyone.

Tell those in the risk zone such as men with prostate problems, young mothers and menopausal women that incontinence might occur. Similarly individuals with mobility difficulties can then experience incontinence problems that can often be helped by making toilet access easier. In all cases, by preparing those at risk of becoming incontinent, you help them quickly come to terms with any eventual problem and make it easier to ask for treatment.