Which statement about urinary incontinence in the elderly is true?

• A. Urinary incontinence is a normal part of aging.
• B. Urinary incontinence isn't a disease.
• C. Urinary incontinence in the elderly can't be treated.
• D. Urinary Incontinence is a disease.

Answer: (B)

Urinary incontinence is a symptom, not a disease. In older adults it’s more common because multiple treatable factors can contribute, but aging alone does not cause incontinence. Recognizing it as a symptom prompts evaluation for underlying issues such as infections, medications, constipation or stool burden, mobility or cognitive problems, pelvic floor weakness, or detrusor overactivity. Because it’s a symptom, there are often effective treatments or management strategies—locusing on the specific cause with lifestyle changes, bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, appropriate medications, or, if needed, procedures. Labeling it as a disease would be inaccurate, and saying it can’t be treated wouldn’t fit what is often possible with proper assessment and care.