The psychosocial impact of incontinence on older people: a review.

The psychosocial impact of incontinence on older people is a relatively poorly recognised area of continence care, especially in care settings where incontinence is not a primary concern. Although continence care is fundamental in almost all areas of nursing practice, it can be something about which nurses become complacent. Psychosocial considerations can be overlooked in favour of the practicalities of toileting, catheter-bag emptying or pad-changing, and older people can be left feeling not only embarrassed and insecure but also that they are a burden (Athlin et al 1993). The prevalence of incontinence is likely to increase with an ageing population, and the psychosocial impact on older individuals therefore needs to be given greater consideration. In reviewing the literature on the psychosocial impact of incontinence on older people, this article aims to offer insight into the experiences of sufferers and to emphasise the importance of truly individualised care.