In Australia, over 5 million individuals aged 15 and above find themselves facing an unexpected challenge: urinary incontinence. This condition affects both men and women. Among them, women account for 80% of the cases while taking a particular toll on the lives of our beloved seniors (54%) aged 50 and above.
It's a delicate topic that deserves our attention, compassion, and understanding. For many seniors, it's seen as a natural consequence of ageing, something they silently bear without seeking the medical help they truly deserve. But it doesn't have to be this way.
Since 2009, the International Continence Society (ICS) has designated "World Continence Week (WCW)" to promote awareness about preventing and managing urinary incontinence and provide professional assistance. In 2023, WCW will be observed from the 19th to the 25th of June.
Urinary incontinence, as defined by the ICS, refers to the involuntary leakage of urine. It brings inconvenience to social interactions and disrupts personal hygiene, but it's important to remember that there is hope. The main types of urinary incontinence are Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), Urge Urinary Incontinence (UUI), and Mixed Urinary Incontinence (MUI). Among them, stress urinary incontinence is the most common, where urine involuntarily leaks from the urethra during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising due to increased abdominal pressure. Urinary incontinence is a treatable condition.
The American Urological Association (AUA) recommends various treatment options, including:
- Behavioural therapy, such as pelvic floor rehabilitation exercises, strengthens the pelvic floor muscles.
- Medication therapy.
- Surgical interventions.
- Installation of a bladder pacemaker to regulate the sacral nerves.
If you need more information about urinary incontinence, please consult your family doctor or call the "National Continence Helpline" at 1 800 33 00 66.
Chung Wah has been servicing the WA community since 1909, dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, Chung Wah CC has over 35 years of professional care experience helping seniors and people with disability improve their well-being and better integrate into the community. In 2023, we're promoting our theme, "Embrace, Elevate & Flourish", and build a better community for all.
