National Non-profit Advocacy Organization Quiz

While it is true that changes occur in our bodies as we age that make older adults, particularly women, more likely to experience bladder control loss, it is not accurate to consider it a normal or inevitable part of the aging process. There are many treatment options and management strategies available to help support and optimize bladder health throughout the aging process.

Both men and women are advised to do kegel exercises (the act of squeezing the muscles you use to stop the flow of urine) to prevent, and in some cases, reverse incontinence.

More than half of all residents in nursing homes are incontinent and research shows it is the second leading cause of institutionalization.

Incontinence is the most common complication associated with type 2 diabetes.

Incontinence is a common challenge, especially for individuals over the age of 65 (including those that live at home).

While limiting the amount of liquid consumed will result in less urine, the smaller amount of urine may become highly concentrated and become irritating to the bladder. This may ultimately cause urinary tract infections, which can trigger frequency of urination and the sudden urge to go.

Weight loss has been shown to significantly reduce urinary incontinence symptoms in overweight individuals – yet another reason to keep a watchful eye on the scale.

One-third of people over the age of 65 fall every year, and urinary incontinence has been reported as a top risk factor. For example, individuals who experience urge incontinence (involuntary leakage accompanied by or immediately preceded by urgency) may rush to the toilet to avoid wetting themselves. Medications used to treat incontinence can cause dizziness, which increases the chance of falls.

Nearly 25% of women admitted to a long-term care facility will become incontinent within a year of admission.

In fact bladder health challenges impact the daily lives/routines of 30-50% of women.

Bigger isn’t always better – fit is critical to effectiveness. It’s also important to make sure there are breathable side panels or zones to ensure optimal air flow, comfort and skin protection.

A woman with urge incontinence may feel an overwhelming compulsion to empty her bladder if it contains urine. This increases the likelihood of someone rushing and tripping on her way to the bathroom. Here’s the good news: findings suggest that the identification and treatment of urge incontinence may actively prevent the risk of falls and fractures.

Menstrual pads aren’t designed to absorb urine or control odor. Wearing a menstrual pad instead of an appropriate absorbent product may also result in rash or irritation.

While product changes are important, choosing the right size product with breathable side panels and a quality absorbent core will help prevent skin irritation and leakage.

For many people, incontinence issues may begin as early as age 40.

Urine production often decreases at night, allowing most people to sleep six to eight hours without having to use the bathroom. To help reduce nighttime bathroom visits, drink as little as possible for at least 4 hours prior to bedtime. If the problem continues, please speak with your doctor.

While there are quality standards for adult absorbent products, most states have failed to adopt/implement these standards. NAFC is working hard to address this discrepancy. Please support the adoption and implementation of NAFC’s Quality Standards for Disposable Adult Absorbent Products.

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that while bladder and urethral function can decline throughout adult life, bladder capacity rarely changes.

According to research, people wait on average SEVEN years before seeking treatment from their healthcare provider.

Nearly 65% of people who experience bladder control symptoms forego products or treatments!