Urinary incontinence is not considered a life-or-death issue, but the reality is that it can lead to impaired quality of life, institutionalisation and even death (NHS England, 2018). The person with urinary incontinence may consider loss of bladder control to be shameful and embarrassing; they might become depressed and isolated. Urinary incontinence can affect their working life and relationships. We need to ensure that all staff are aware that urinary incontinence is not an inevitable consequence of ageing. We entered the profession to help and to heal, and continence care is a vital part of this.
