In a nutshell
This article investigated the convenience of an at-home exercise and bladder training program in elderly women with urinary incontinence (UI). The authors concluded that this may be a convenient and favorable treatment for elderly women with UI.
Some background
UI is the involuntary leakage of urine. Control over the urinary sphincter is either lost or weakened in women with UI. UI is currently managed with a UI specialist or physical therapist referral. However, elderly women with UI are still at an increased risk of falls from trying to reach a toilet before an episode of incontinence.
An alternative treatment option is with a home exercise and bladder training program. However, the effect on the overall convenience and safety of this program is still under investigation.
Methods & findings
The study involved 38 women aged 65 and older with UI. They were placed into two groups. Group 1 took part in the exercise and bladder training program (19). Group 2 receive the usual care (18). The study lasted for 6 weeks.
After 6 weeks, group 1 had an improvement in the severity of urinary symptoms compared with group 2 and compared to the beginning. In both groups, the risk of falls decreased. There was no difference in physical activity between the two groups.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that this was a convenient and favorable management for elderly women with urinary incontinence.
The fine print
This was a very small study. Further studies in behavioral support to help maintain exercise adherence would be needed to maintain this suggested program.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
Apr 18, 2019
