There is a symptom of aging that is difficult for some families to discuss.
But it's important that they do.
First, let us emphasize, the seniors you see in these pictures do not necessarily have the symptom.
In a word, the symptom is incontinence.
" Incontinence is the inability either the flow of urine or the flow of stool from the body. There is current statistics to show that over twenty million Americans suffer from incontinence of one type or another,” said Castle Phyiscal Therapist Joanne Reid.
Reid emphasizes that incontinence is a symptom, not a disease. But when early signs of the symptom become evident, Reid says the senior or family members should seek help.
" The most important thing for people to remember is that they need to see their doctor,” said Reid. “ And since 85% of individuals, Americans, who have incontinence are women, that would include either a primary care physician or the ob-gyn that the patient is seeing."
The symptoms can vary in severity, according the physical therapist Stephanie Jones.
" Urge incontinence is more related to bladder spasming so it's preceded by a sudden urge, a need to go to the bathroom. Stress incontinence is related to more increased pressure on the bladder and so there is a smaller amount of leakage - often with coughing, sneezing.”
Or even laughing, for that matter. But Jones says there are therapies that can help: strengthening of the pelvic floor muscle, biofeedback or electrical stimulation. Therapists also work on posture with patients and in some cases, behavior modification and lifestyle changes.
Incontinence is a sensitive subject - only one in twelve who are incontinent seek help.
" We want to make sure that every single person who is having any symptoms of incontinence does see their doctor to get it treated,” said Reid. “ 80% of incontinence can be resolved."
Reid and Jones are members of a Castle team that can offer help with incontinence.
