Experience of Urinary Incontinence in Elderly Women in Urban Areas

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to understand and describe the experiences of urinary incontinence in older women in urban areas.Methods: Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews of 8 older women with urinary incontinence in urban areas from September 2020 to March 2021. The transcribed data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological six-step method.Results: Four theme clusters emerged: Urinary incontinence as an uninvited visitor in old age; The heavy daily pain urinary incontinence causes; Self-help efforts to cope with urinary incontinence; and A mind to hold on to the present condition so as not to deteriorate.Conclusion: This study provided an in-depth understanding of older women’s experiences with urinary incontinence in urban areas. Based on the results of this study, efforts should be made to develop and provide emotional and psychological support and prevention education programs that can adequately support older women with urinary incontinence in urban areas.