Abstract
AIM: The study aims to examine the prevalence of functional urinary incontinence (FUI) and its comparative frequency with other types of incontinence. Moreover, this study also aims to explore its relationship with key geriatric assessment parameters in older women. METHODS: Older women over the age of 65 years from one geriatrics outpatient clinic were included in the cross-sectional study. UI subtypes were classified based on participants' responses to the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form. FUI is the involuntary leakage of urine resulting from physical or cognitive limitations in reaching or using toilet facilities. The relationships between UI subtypes and comprehensive geriatric assessment parameters were determined RESULTS: The study included 1628 participants (mean age 79.6 ± 8.2 years). Prevalence rates were identified as follows: control group (no continence) (37.2%), Urge UI (31.9%), Stres UI (4.6%), FUI (7.6%), Mixt UI (urge and stress, 12.3%), Urge UI and FUI (4.9%), and Stress UI with FUI (1.5%). In multınominal lojistik regression, Basic Activities of Daily Living scores were low across all types of urinary UI (p<0.05). Patients with FUI exhibited significantly lower Mini Nutritional Assessment scores, Tinetti balance and gait scores, and handgrip strength compared to those with other UI subtypes, whereas their Timed Up and Go times and age were higher (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: FUI is associated with several geriatric conditions, including increased functional dependency, nutritional deterioration, reduced muscle strength, and impaired balance and gait functions. Therefore, when approaching an older woman with incontinence, it is essential to be aware of FUI, rather than focusing solely on Urge UI or Stress UI.