Management of Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults in Rehabilitation Care Settings

Abstract

This review focuses on updates in the management of urinary incontinence occurring in older adult populations living with conditions frequently managed by physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists. Urinary incontinence is common among older adults who live with neurologic diseases, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury, and may be cared for in outpatient and acute rehabilitation facilities. While the evidence is growing regarding treatment strategies specific to patients with neurogenic bladder, behavioral treatment approaches may be a viable first option depending on cognitive status and mobility. Drug therapy choices should consider mechanism of action and formulation to minimize the potential for adverse effects. Minimally invasive strategies provided by continence specialists are available for refractory symptoms. Evidence suggests a multidisciplinary approach incorporating multicomponent treatment strategies can improve common urinary symptoms among older adults in both outpatient and acute inpatient rehabilitation settings of care.