[Urinary incontinence of the older adult].

Abstract

The frequency and severity of urinary incontinence (UI) increase with age. Its prevalence varies according to living environment: it is less common among older people living at home than in hospitals or nursing homes. UI is a geriatric syndrome with multiple causes (comorbidities, polypharmacy, etc.) and harmful consequences: reduced quality of life for people and their careers, depression, falls, institutionalization. Diagnosis of UI is based on history-taking and a basic medical check-up, with the aim of ruling out red flags and the causes of transient UI, pointing to an etiology and determining the patient's profile and expectations in terms of management. Treatment may include rehabilitative and behavioural interventions, medication and, in some cases, specialized techniques such as neuromodulation or surgery.