The incontinence taboo

For an issue that affects a staggering one in three Australians — particularly the elderly — it’s surprising that so little is said about incontinence within the care industry.

According to the ABS, one in every 14 people over 65 (7.2%) and one in four people over the age of 85 (24.5%) experienced severe incontinence, as of 2009. Although these numbers are somewhat dated, they still indicate the significant impact incontinence must have on both the industry and the lives of those affected.

Despite its prevalence, incontinence remains a taboo subject. Many people are pushed into silence through embarrassment and shame, and the lack of public discussion and awareness only exacerbates the problem.

The mental impact of incontinence

According to a survey by the Continence Foundation of Australia, 32% of people believe incontinence affected their mental wellbeing. Many people isolate themselves, even from family. The fear of leakage and odour can make them a recluse and have a negative impact on their mental health.

Incontinence is something people live with, and it shouldn’t stop them from doing the things they love. Incontinence should not signal the end of social outings or even travelling, and if it does, they could risk putting both their mental and physical health at risk.

I have personally heard elderly people say they feel like babies because they can’t control themselves, and express feelings of shame and confusion. They feel they have no one to talk to and as they mistakenly believe this is a ‘normal part of aging’, they often fail to seek professional help.

Not a normal part of aging

In fact, incontinence is not a normal part of aging, and shouldn’t be treated as such — either by the sufferers themselves or by their care provider. While it is more common among the elderly, it is not a given and should not be automatically considered normal.

Another common misconception is that there is nothing that can be done about being incontinent. But the reality is that 75% of incontinence can be cured or better managed.

There are many treatments available, depending on the type of incontinence one has. Pelvic floor training or physio is usually the starting point, and it’s important to seek the advice of a continence nurse or continence physiotherapist to get an initial diagnosis and follow-up treatment plan. Even if complete control of incontinence is not possible, management can greatly improve a person’s quality of life.

Care providers can also offer advice on making basic lifestyle and dietary changes that can help to improve or better manage incontinence. For example, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight and practising pelvic floor exercises can all help to manage incontinence.

Carers can also provide practical assistance to those with incontinence, including helping with going to the toilet, providing access to continence products and ensuring that individuals are comfortable and well cared for.

Opening the conversation

The best way to tackle incontinence is simply to start the conversation. While incontinence is a delicate topic that many people don’t feel comfortable discussing, it is essential to break down the stigma and let people know that they are not alone.

With the right support and planning, individuals with incontinence can continue to enjoy their favourite activities and maintain their quality of life. In fact, there are many high-profile incontinent people who live or have lived with incontinence including: Kris Jenner, Samuel J Jackson, Stephen King, Katy Perry, Helena Bonham Carter, Tony Romo and Whoopi Goldberg.

When approaching the topic, it is essential to be sensitive and respectful. Use language that is clear and easy to understand, and avoid using stigmatising terms that may cause embarrassment or shame. By providing accurate information about the causes, treatment options and management strategies, care providers can help dispel the myths and encourage those affected to seek help.

It’s time to break the taboo surrounding incontinence for good. By providing the right education, resources and practical assistance to those affected, the care industry can help an untold number of Australians live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

 

*Sonya Meyer is a consultant with ConfidenceClub, a continence management company that delivers products straight to the customer’s door. Meyer has completed a Bachelor of Nursing and Graduate Diploma in Clinical Practice, and is passionate about empowering people living with incontinence issues.

 

Top image credit: iStock.com/anilakkus