Incontinence: the taboo hurting the health and dignity of millions

Age UK, together with nine other organisations, has published a new report on incontinence. Leading charities warn incontinence is one of the biggest issues for countless people with serious health conditions who they support – but taboo around the topic forces those affected to struggle in silence.

Ten organisations including Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK, Marie Curie and Parkinson’s UK held a workshop to discuss common problems and potential solutions with patients, carers, researchers and health and social care professionals. The resulting report recommends tackling the stigma and funding research into this important but often-ignored issue.

The report authors are calling for evaluation of the economic impact of incontinence, more dedicated services to support people affected, better training for health and care professionals, and investment in research with a focus on non-drug and non-surgical interventions that allow people affected to take control of their own needs.

Download the report: www.ageuk.org.uk