What Is Functional Incontinence and How Caregivers Manage It?

Understanding incontinence can feel overwhelming for caregivers, especially because not all incontinence is caused by bladder problems. Knowing the different types can make it easier to respond with patience, practical solutions, and the right kind of support.

One common type, especially for older adults 65 and older, is functional incontinence.

Functional incontinence happens when an older adult has normal bladder function but cannot get to the bathroom in time.

The issue is not the bladder itself, but physical or cognitive challenges that interfere with movement, timing, or awareness.

Physical conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or general mobility challenges can slow movement or make daily tasks more difficult.

For example, arthritis can make it painful or slow to unbutton pants, manage zippers, or lower clothing quickly enough.

Balance issues or muscle weakness may make standing up and walking to the bathroom harder.

After a stroke, weakness on one side of the body may affect walking speed or coordination.

Cognitive conditions can also contribute.

Dementia may reduce awareness of the urge to urinate or make it harder to recognize where the bathroom is located.

Some older adults may become distracted, confused, or unsure of what the urge means. Others may not communicate their need clearly or at all.

Practical Ways Caregivers Can Help

Start with medical guidance

A healthcare provider can help determine whether functional incontinence is the cause and rule out infections or other medical issues.

They may recommend pelvic floor therapy, which can help strengthen muscles that support bladder control.

Make sure to bring up medications since some drugs can worsen urgency or leakage.

Protective pads or undergarments may be suggested to support comfort and dignity.

Make bathroom access easier Clear walkways, good lighting, and removing rugs or clutter can make it easier to reach the bathroom safely and quickly.

Leaving the bathroom door open and the light on can help those with memory or vision challenges.

If possible, placing your loved one in a room closer to the bathroom can reduce accidents and even lower fall risk.

Support healthy weight goals Excess weight, especially around the midsection, can increase pressure on the bladder. When appropriate, gradual weight loss through balanced meals and movement may help reduce urgency. You can also discuss this with the health provider.

Pay attention to diet and drinks Some foods and beverages can irritate the bladder and increase the need to urinate.

Limit their intake of common triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, citrus juices, and tomatoes. You can read our blog about how caffeine increases urges to urinate here.

Establish a regular bathroom routine

Encouraging scheduled bathroom trips can reduce accidents.

Gently prompting your loved one to use the bathroom every two to three hours, even if they do not feel the urge, can help prevent urgency from becoming overwhelming.

This can be especially helpful for individuals with memory challenges.

Choose easy to manage clothing

Clothing can make a big difference. Elastic waistbands, pull-on pants, Velcro closures, or adaptive clothing reduce the time it takes to undress. Avoid complicated buttons, tight belts, or layers that slow bathroom access.

Protect dignity and reduce embarrassment

Accidents can be emotionally difficult. Respond calmly to avoid frustration or shame. Keeping spare clothing and supplies easily accessible helps minimize disruption and maintains dignity.

---

As the only nonprofit agency in California offering home care services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate affordable in-home care.  

Our dedicated care professional can help you think through your options and explain what types of support may be appropriate based on your specific needs.

All caregivers undergo thorough background checks and training with certification.  

Our rates are lower than other providers thanks to partnerships, donations, grants, and revenue from our cleaning program.  

Our caregivers can assist with personal care, shopping, cooking, transportation, housekeeping, and case management.  

We proudly serve Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ.  For more information, contact us at  888-336-8322   or send an email to info@elderloveusa.org

Learn More