It is not only a symptom of advanced dementia, but it is often associated with age-related changes in the body's anatomy and physiology. It may create a great source of stress, for both the person who is experiencing the incontinence and those closest to him or her. Even though it can be challenging to discover the cause of incontinence, a systematic approach to the problem yields the best results for treatment.
Incontinence causes can be environmental, medical or both.
Some examples of medical causes include urinary tract infection, diabetes, stool impaction, excess fluid intake, an enlarged prostate, decreased estrogen levels after menopause and medication side-effects. A severely impaired person may not remember how to use the bathroom anymore or may feel rushed or overwhelmed by instructions. Also, visual-spatial deficits, hearing problems and fear may also contribute to bathroom difficulties. To assess the problem thoroughly, keep an accurate diary of fluid intake and urination habits for a few days. Observe how often the person urinates.