Continence Promotion

Urinary incontinence, or loss of bladder control, affects nearly 60 percent of all nursing facility residents in the United States. Incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process, but is often related to underlying issues including chronic medical conditions, dementia, mobility impairments and some medications.

Incontinence often plays a part in the decision to pursue nursing facility placement and can increase the risk of falls, fractures and skin breakdown. Residents with incontinence are often reluctant to participate in activities, leading to social isolation.

Many residents can achieve partial to total reversal of incontinence when individualized continence promotion plans are put into place. For a continence promotion plan to be successful, it must be based on the resident’s specific needs and toileting habits.

This topic includes information regarding the types and causes of incontinence, tools to aid in assessing continence, treatment strategies, and tips to promote bladder health and function.

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