Urinary incontinence is the involuntary release of urine (bedwetting). It is a common problem that affects millions of people, particularly the elderly. So, how can urinary incontinence in seniors be effectively managed?
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Ways to Manage Frequent Urinary Incontinence in Seniors
1. Medications
One method to address urinary incontinence in elderly individuals is through medication, such as:
- Anticholinergics: These medications help calm an overactive bladder and are useful for managing urge incontinence.
- Mirabegron: This drug is used to treat urge incontinence by relaxing bladder muscles and increasing the bladder’s urine storage capacity. It can also help release a larger volume of urine in a single bathroom visit.
- Alpha blockers: These medications relax the bladder neck muscles and prostate fibers, making it easier to empty the bladder.
2. Behavioral Techniques
- Bladder training: This involves delaying urination when the urge arises to gradually improve bladder control.
- Double voiding: A technique to help ensure the bladder is fully emptied, reducing the risk of leakage.
- Scheduled toilet trips: Establishing a routine of urinating every 2-4 hours instead of waiting until the urge arises.
- Fluid and diet management: Adjusting dietary habits by reducing or avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and acidic foods. Additionally, weight management and increased physical activity may also be recommended.
3. Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises
Doctors may suggest pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises) to strengthen muscles that control urination. This technique is particularly effective for stress incontinence and urge incontinence.
To perform pelvic floor exercises:
- Imagine stopping your urine flow and tighten those muscles.
- Hold the contraction for five seconds, then relax for five seconds. (If this is too difficult, start with two-second contractions and relax for three seconds.)
- Gradually increase the contraction duration to 10 seconds.
- Aim to complete three sets of 10 repetitions per day.
4. Artificial Urinary Sphincter Device
With advancements in medical technology, an artificial urinary sphincter device is now available to help manage incontinence in elderly individuals.
This small fluid-filled device is implanted around the bladder neck to keep the sphincter closed until the person is ready to urinate. When urination is needed, the patient can press a valve implanted under the skin, causing the ring to deflate and allowing urine to flow from the bladder.
These devices come in various sizes to accommodate different urethral dimensions, ensuring a proper fit for patients.
If you’re interested in trying an artificial urinary sphincter device as a solution for frequent incontinence in the elderly, visit Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. Our hospital offers the installation procedure for artificial urinary sphincter devices to help manage urinary incontinence in seniors.
For further inquiries regarding this device or to consult about urinary incontinence, our hospital has an experienced team of urology specialists who are experts in the field.
You can use the Chat feature via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available for download on Google Play and the App Store, to facilitate your visit, check queue numbers, and get complete information.
