Step 2

Understand that urinary incontinence is very common, but not a part of normal aging.

Urinary incontinence (UI) affects at least 13 million Americans.  Although UI is not associated with normal aging, its prevalence does increase with age.  Fifty percent of both homebound elderly, and nursing home residents are affected by UI.  As a matter of fact, UI is one of the primary reasons for admission to long-term care facilities.

Research shows that UI is under-detected and under-treated. In fact, it is estimated that fewer than half of people with urinary incontinence consult healthcare providers about this problem.

Urinary incontinence can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.  Fortunately, despite widespread misconception, urinary incontinence is highly treatable and potentially reversible in approximately 80 percent of cases.

Home health care professionals are in the ideal position to effectively screen, assess, treat, evaluate, and educate those suffering from UI.