Bladder weakness
need not lead to isolation

Many people - especially the elderly - have problems with the involuntary loss of urine. Bladder weakness is one designation for this condition, the general medical term is urinary incontinence.

Bladder dysfunction with urinary incontinence is one of the most common diseases of the aged in all the main Western industrialized nations. And the trend is set to increase, as more and more incontinent senior citizens are expected as a result of demographic changes in these countries, leading to ageing populations.

Urinary incontinence can severely affect the lives of those affected by it. The fear of embarrassing accidents and the shame of not being able to control the bladder function can often make many people retreat from their usual social circle of friends and activities. This can result in increasing isolation, loneliness and not seldom also in depression. Incontinence is also a common cause for nursing home admissions.

Unfortunately, urinary incontinence is still a taboo. It is not talked about and despite the intense suffering, many people affected won't even confide in their general practitioner. But urinary incontinence is definitely no longer a fate that must be simply accepted. Effective methods of treatment and care are available today, which can decisively improve the situation of the persons affected.

But help is only possible if urinary incontinence is not kept as a shameful secret, but rather is understood and accepted as an "illness" that must be diagnosed and treated, just as any other illness must be. The earlier the therapy is begun, the better the prospects for success.