Double incontinence

Double incontinence

Double incontinence is the inability to perceive, retain and evacuate stool and urine at the time and place of choice. At least 15% of men and women above 75 years of age suffer from double incontinence. Their quality of life is significantly decreased and they require extra care. Communicative and mobility problems are strongly correlated with urinary incontinence.

 

Especially patients with dementia or confusion do not experience the sensation of "having to go to the toilet" and suffer from decreased independence and thus develop incontinence. Increasing mobility and improving stool consistency might be important in controlling the symptoms and may delay or prevent incontinence and thus improve the quality of life among elderly.