Urinary incontinence is not considered a normal part of aging and can occur at any age. The prevalence of urinary incontinence increases with age, however, as it is estimated that approximately one in four adults over the age of 40 experience some level of urinary incontinence. The severity of symptoms can vary, from occasional leakage of small amounts of urine when laughing or coughing, to more frequent, larger losses of urine that can lead to skin breakdown and frequent changes of clothing.
The underlying causes of urinary incontinence can vary greatly among individuals and range from physical changes related to aging, muscle and nerve damage, and neurological diseases, to lifestyle factors such as dietary and fluid intake, and physical activity. It is important that individuals experiencing urinary incontinence speak to their doctor, as many of the underlying causes are treatable and proper management can significantly improve quality of life.
As urinary incontinence does not discriminate by age, older adults should be aware of the symptoms and speak to their doctor about management strategies if they are experiencing any level of urinary incontinence.