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Managing continence

Incontinence is a common health problem that affects around two million Australians from all walks of life. Proper assessment, treatment and management can bring significant improvement in your quality of life if you have this problem.

For older people, incontinence is both more common and more severe – up to 40 per cent of people over 75 years of age experience difficulties. Help is available and people do not need to suffer in silence.

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You may want to know what to do about it, where to find the right equipment or who to call for help.

What is incontinence?

Incontinence is the inability to control the bladder or bowel. Incontinence is not just a problem for older people. It can affect men and women of any age. It should not be considered normal. It can often be a sign of other health problems.
Read more: What is incontinence?

Help for people living with incontinence

Incontinence can make you feel embarrassed and socially isolated. It can have a major impact on your quality of life in everything you do, no matter what your age and background. But incontinence can be prevented, treated, managed and often cured.
Read more: Help for people living with incontinence

Help for families, carers and friends of people living with incontinence

People with bowel and bladder conditions often feel ashamed, afraid or humiliated. These kinds of feelings can stop them from openly discussing their problem with carers, family members and health professionals and getting the help that they need.

There are many myths, stereotypes and misconceptions about incontinence. For example, many people think that it’s a normal part of getting older. Incontinence should not be considered normal. It can often be a sign of other health problems.
Read more: Help for families, carers and friends of people living with incontinence

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Continence management in aged care homes

Once an aged care home accepts you, it must cater for your particular health needs. Some homes cater specifically for these particular needs, and the aged care home finder on this website will indicate this.
Next step: Aged Care Home Finder

Incontinence and dementia

People with dementia often experience bladder control problems as memory loss may lead them to feel confused and disorientated. This can cause a breakdown in the mechanisms necessary for bladder control.
Read more: Incontinence and dementia

Useful resources and contacts for continence management

There are some key organisations in Australia that can help you manage incontinence or find the support that you need.
Read more: Useful resources and contacts for continence management

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Aged Care Information Line
1800 500 853
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This page was last updated on: 03 January 2008