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Challenges and New Insights in the Management of Urinary Incontinence in Older Women

  • Geriatric Urology (H Richter and C Parker-Autry, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article highlights the potential challenges in the management of urinary incontinence in older women.

Recent Findings

Urinary incontinence is a highly prevalent condition associated with profound morbidity and psychosocial consequences especially among older women. Simple conservative approaches including life-style modification and behavioral management can be quite effective in improving urinary incontinence symptoms. However, options beyond first-line management are limited due to adverse effects related to medications or surgery.

Summary

Urinary incontinence is a multifactorial condition in older women, and management is often complicated given multiple comorbidities and unique physiologic changes related to aging. The management should be individualized based on the patient's clinical history and goals of therapy. More research is needed to overcome current challenges associated with the management of urinary incontinence in older women. A treatment algorithm that provides safe yet effective treatment options specifically tailored to older women is needed.

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Funding

Dr. Meyer receives research funding from the National Institute on Aging (NIA).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1700 6th Avenue South Suite 10382, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA

    Isuzu Meyer & Holly E. Richter

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  1. Isuzu Meyer
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  2. Holly E. Richter
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Correspondence to Isuzu Meyer.

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I Meyer: nothing to disclose, HE Richter: Renovia – Research funding.

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Meyer, I., Richter, H.E. Challenges and New Insights in the Management of Urinary Incontinence in Older Women. Curr Geri Rep 11, 11–17 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13670-022-00375-z

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