Bladder Health for Older Adults
While everyone uses their bladder many times each day, older adults may need to know about the changes that typically take place in the bladder as people age, and how to keep their bladder healthy. Although people sometimes feel uncomfortable talking about bladder issues, discussing concerns with a physician can be helpful in understanding what is typical and when you should seek medical attention.
Through the aging process, the tissue that surrounds the bladder may toughen and become less stretchy causing it to hold less urine. This can result in more trips to the bathroom or urine leakage. Also, the bladder wall and pelvic muscles may weaken as you age, making it harder to fully empty the bladder.
Some common bladder problems include:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Bladder infections
Kidney Infections
Urethra Infections
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTs)
Bladder cancer
While you can’t control everything that affects bladder health, there are some steps you can take to improve your general health and in particular the health of your bladder.
These are some action steps you can take to help keep your bladder healthy.
Drink enough fluids, especially water and limit alcohol and caffeine
Quit smoking
Avoid constipation
Keep a healthy weight
Exercise regularly, do pelvic floor muscle exercises
Use the bathroom often and when needed
Take enough time to fully empty the bladder when urinating
Be in a relaxed position while urinating
Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes