Customer question:
Is leakage of urine widespread in older people? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Although urinary leakage is common in older people, it is not a normal aging state. Although urine leakage in older people can be pretty standard, it is not necessarily present in all older adults. Several factors can affect the frequency and severity of incontinence in older people. As we age, the pelvic floor muscles tend to weaken, which can lead to bladder control problems. In addition, bladder capacity can also decrease, which increases the frequency of urination.
Older people are also more likely to have health problems such as urinary tract infections, benign prostatic hyperplasia in men, pelvic organ prolapse in women, or other conditions that can contribute to incontinence.
In women, estrogen levels often decrease after menopause, which can affect the tone of the pelvic floor muscles. Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, neurological conditions, or spinal cord injuries, can also contribute to bladder control problems. The use of certain medications can also cause incontinence or increase the risk of it in older people.
Interesting reading: Leaking urine after urinating
Interesting reading: Leakage of urine in women