Prevalence of Urine Incontinence and Its’ Impact on the Quality of Life of Older Adults in Galle

Abstract

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a significant physical health issue among older adults. This condition adversely affects the quality of life (QoL) of older adults. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of UI and its’ impact to the quality of life of older adults (aged 60+ years) in Galle district Methods: Using a self-administered questionnaire, an analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 older adults (male=49, female=161) selected with stratified random sampling from Bope–Poddala Divisional Secretary Area of Galle, Sri Lanka. Validated Sinhala versions of International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF questionnaire) were used to identify UI and the QoL of older adults respectively. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Independent t-test was used to identify association between UI and QoL. Results: The mean age (±SD) of the participants was 68.31(±6.28) years and the age range was 60 to 86 years. The overall prevalence of UI was 7.1%. At least one lower urinary tract symptom was found in 28.6% (n=210) of older adults. There was no difference of UI between males and females (p>0.05). Slightly higher mean values of physical health (62.91 vs. 57.2), psychological health (67.83 vs. 62.73), social relationships (71.58 vs. 63.73) and environmental health (66.64 vs. 64.67) dimensions of the QoL were observed among those with no UI compared to those with UI (p>0.05). Conclusions: A considerable number of older adults were suffering from UI, but it has no significant effect on their QoL. However, nurses and other public health care professionals should educate older adults about this health condition and how to control it. Keywords: Lower Urinary Tract Symptom, Older Adults, Prevalence, Quality of Life, Urine incontinence 69