Urinary incontinence in the elderly. Causes and treatment options.

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent and distressing condition that affects > 30% of elderly individuals. A wide variety of treatment modalities is available, and can be effective in reducing or eliminating the symptoms and adverse consequences of urinary incontinence. Pharmacological therapy is an important component of the successful management of this condition, but the agents currently used do not act selectively on the lower urinary tract. Adverse effects of drug treatment are common, and are especially problematic in the elderly. A careful assessment of the type of urinary incontinence and the institution of a rational management programme are the keys to improvement or even cure in patients with this condition.