Try: Possible causes 1 physiological or medical causes; infections such as urinary tract infections urethritis or vaginitis; prostate problems in men especially after prostate surgery; constipation or fecal impaction; weak pelvic muscles especially in women; chronic illnesses such as diabetes parkinson’s disease or other illness that limit mobility; vision changes that make it difficult to see the way to the bathroom; dehydration can cause irritation of the bladder or lack of sensation to urinate; the sensation to urinate may be limited due to brain changes in dementia; diuretics as well as natural diuretics such as coffee and tea; medications especially tranquilizers sedatives hynotics and antidepressants 2 environmental causes; distance to the bathroom may be too far; bed may be too high from the floor making it difficult to get out of bed in time; floor and toilet seat may be the same color making it difficult to see the toilet; improper footwear that makes the individual afraid he she might fall; poor lighting making it difficult to find the bathroom or locate the toilet; orientation cues signs may be lacking which help the person locate the toilet 3 other causes; person may not remember what to do once in the bathroom; the task may be too complicated; assistance may be needed to help undressing sitting on the toilet wiping or rising from the toilet; older adult may be fearful or anxious about having to partially undress in front of an unfamiliar caregiver; caregiver may not be giving simple or clear enough instructions; caregiver may be rushing; the older adult may not have the ability to communicate the need to urinate coping strategies ; observe assess and log the older adult’s behavior such as when the accidents happen how often is the person urinating in improper places such as flower pots closets sink or on the way to the bathroom; older adult should be examined by a physician to determine possible causes such as medication infections or other medical cause and conduct a continence diagnostic evaluation; the sensation to drink fluids in persons with dementia may be diminished; ensure adequate fluid intake; set up a regular schedule with specific times for the person to drink and eat; determine toileting behavior then set up a schedule to accommodate the older adult before he she needs to urinate toilet before and after meals and immediately before going to bed make sure the person actually urinates before getting off the toilet
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Categories: Emotional Psychological, Medical Physical
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*This information is listed as a Fact Sheet and is not explicitly medically licensed