No abstract

Over active bladder syndrome (OAB) is the most common cause of urinary incontinence in the older population (Gadgil and Wagg, 2008). Many women do not seek medical help and advice as they consider it to be an inevitable part of ageing. It can have significant impact on sufferers' lives and can contribute to an increased risk of falls, reduced quality of life, social isolation and depression. It is also known to be hugely underreported as patients are often too embarrassed to discuss their symptoms with members of their family or health professionals. OAB syndrome can however, be treated effectively in primary care with conservative, nurse-led treatments. This article will discuss the causes, implications, assessment and conservative treatments available to women over 65 years old presenting with OAB syndrome in primary care.

Urinary incontinence is a common hidden problem which affects up to 30% of older people (Nazarko, 2008). It is often ignored or not treated effectively and often women suffering with urinary incontinence do not present to primary care practitioners, as they perceive it as an inevitable consequence of ageing. This article aims to discuss the types of urinary incontinence and treatments available to older women presenting with urinary incontinence in primary care.

No abstract