Urinary incontinence and use of pads–clinical features and need for help in home care at 11 sites in Europe

Aim: The aim of this study was to obtain evidenced-based knowledge about older persons in home care; we conducted a population-based study at 11 sites in Europe (2001/2002). This article focuses on urinary incontinence and need for help in home care. Methods: A sample of 4010 respondents 65 years or older were assessed by the Resident Assessment Instrument for Home Care. Urinary incontinence was defined as leakage once a week or more including use of catheters. Results: A total of 1478 individuals had urinary incontinence, 45% men and 47% women. The use of pads ran from 29% to 52% between the sites. The associates of urinary incontinence were: moderate or severe cognitive impairment, dependency in toileting and other activities of daily living compared with less impaired; urinary infections, obesity and faecal incontinence. Caregivers to persons with urinary incontinence reported burden or stress more often then carers to nonurinary incontinence individuals (OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.8-2.7). Conclusions: To enable older people with incontinence to stay at home with a better quality of life, they need caring assistance during toileting on a regular basis.