We've all been there at one time or another—that moment when we're holding in a sneeze—laughing too hard—suddenly terrified we're just not going to make it to the bathroom on time.
Although the occasional “close call” can easily be written off, persistent bladder or bowel leakage is no laughing matter, and it can severely impact one's quality of life.
Just over a month ago, I had a worrisome conversation with my own mother who is only 62 years old. She was considering not attending a weekend retreat with her girlfriends because they would be participating in a few adventurous activities. This baffled me. The girlfriends had plans to ride horses and a zip line, and just a few years ago these outings would have thrilled my fun-loving mom. After pressing her a bit, I learned my mother was concerned about embarrassing herself if she became incontinent. As we talked more, my mom divulged her recent struggles with incontinence, and sadly, began to share a long list of activities she now tries to avoid.
While incontinence can occur at any age, it is more common in older adults, and women are at higher risk than men. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 50.9% of adults over 65 report accidental leakage, and reports are highest amongst adults over 75. Like my mother, many men and women who experience incontinence and do not seek treatment, have unwanted complications. Chronic incontinence can lead to rashes and skin problems, urinary tract infections, and often, decreased participation in otherwise enjoyable pastimes. But there are solutions.
Bladder control training through pelvic muscle exercises, biofeedback, timed voiding, and lifestyle changes can all help decrease incontinence. Medications and surgical interventions may also be appropriate for some.
If you're interested in learning more about incontinence solutions, we will be offering two great opportunities right here on campus! This Wednesday, July 20th at 10:00AM in the Agelink Great Room, the health and wellness committee will host a nurse from Kerisma: Understanding Women GYN to address causes and treatments of female incontinence in a supportive, all-women environment. There will be cookies and refreshments. Then, the Goodfellers will host Dr. Mawyer on Saturday, July 23rd in the Life Center at 8:30AM, as he presents the topic of male incontinence and other male-oriented health concerns. Please join us at one of these events, and take steps towards managing and preventing incontinence.
I'm happy to report my mother took the first steps. She is working with a medical professional, she's doing her pelvic floor exercises, and she had a wonderful time on the retreat with her girlfriends… horses and all. ★
Get involved!
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