PERCEPTIONS OF OLDER ADULTS IN PREVENTING URINARY INCONTINENCE: A DESCRIPTIVE QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background Urinary incontinence is a common condition among older adults. It negatively affects quality of life and incurs significant socioeconomic costs. Prevention of urinary incontinence in older adults is important due to their increased risk and the current global ageing phenomenon. While there are numerous studies exploring strategies to treat or manage incontinence, little is known about the state of urinary incontinence prevention among continent older adults. Design: A descriptive qualitative study was utilised in this study. Aim of Study The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of older adults towards prevention of urinary incontinence, evaluate their state of preparedness while identifying for any common strategies used to prevent urinary incontinence. Methods Convenience sampling was used to recruit 15 participants visiting an outpatient clinic in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Individual face to face semi-structured interviews were conducted. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Sample size was determined by thematic saturation. Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework was used to guide data analysis. Results: Four themes pertinent to the research aims emerged from the analysis: “Poor Insights”, “Lack of Intention”, “Ease of Adaptability” and “Promoting Continence”. Conclusion: Findings from this study added evidence to the current limited body of knowledge regarding prevention of urinary incontinence, especially in Singapore. The general lack of awareness but receptivity of older adults towards prevention supports the notion that more public education is needed. A more proactive approach by healthcare professionals can be taken to facilitate and motivate prevention efforts.