Methods Used to Manage Urinary Incontinence by Older Adults in the Community

This paper addresses the ways that noninstitutionalized older adults deal with involuntary urine loss. The data come from a 1983–1984 sample survey of Washtenaw County, Michigan residents aged 60 and over. Five hundred twelve self‐reported incontinent respondents are included in the analyses. About a quarter of the incontinent respondents had discussed their condition with a doctor in the previous year, while 66% used one or more methods to control urine loss. Respondents preferred using absorbent products (47% of those who used some method) and locating a toilet upon reaching a destination (42%). Fewer respondents manipulated their voiding patterns (29%) or diet and fluid intake (17%), or did pelvic muscle exercises (10%). Only 7% were taking medication for their incontinence. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the choice of actions. Predictors were taken from theoretical models of health service utilization and health behavior, and included predisposing characteristics, health beliefs, enabling factors, and illness variables. Illness variables, particularly severity and type of incontinence, were the best predictors of consultation with a doctor and use of any urine control method. The predictors were less useful for understanding the choice of a specific method.