Changes in the kidneys Correct Answer--Degenerative changes
-Decreased blood flow
-Decreased number of functioning nephrons(working unit of the kidney)
Changes in the bladder and urinary tract Correct Answer--Bladder capacity lessens/detrusor muscle weakens
-Decreased tone of urinary sphincter: urine can slip by when they try to hold themselves tight
Additional age-related changes Correct Answer--Changes in nervous system and other regulatory systems: may not have sensation of full bladder or able to empty bladder fully
-Thirst perception decreases
Risk Factors that Affect Urinary Wellness Correct Answer--Micturition: means to pee, the discharge of urine from the body
-Voiding: discharge or drain away
-Continence: control of elimination either urine or stool
-Incontinence: loss of control of elimination either urine or stool
-Urinary retention: inability to completely empty the bladder Fluid intake and dietary factors Correct Answer--Limited fluid intake perceived as maintaining continence can have opposite effect: leads to lower urinary tract symptoms
-Inadequate fluid intake causes urine to be more concentrated, causing bladder irritability with difficult maintaining continence
Medication effects Correct Answer--Some can increase the risk for developing urinary incontinence
-Diuretics make you have to pee very urgently
Myths and misunderstandings Correct Answer--Attitude and lack of knowledge: detrimental effect on behavior of older adults and their caregivers
-Educate and advocate
Influence on caregivers Correct Answer--Misperceptions or lack of information can negatively affect care
-Nursing staff may falsely assume an episode of incontinence as ongoing
-If staff is busy, may tell pt to use their brief instead
-Do not stereotype
Other impairments Correct Answer--Functional impairments and environmental conditions: are they able to get to the bathroom easily, any obstacles?
-Pathological and other factors: obesity, smoking, being in LTC can cause problems