Many people assume that a leaky bladder is just part of getting older. But is it an inevitable part of ageing? No, is the short answer. While incontinence does become more common with age, it is not guaranteed, and there are many ways to improve your bladder or bowel health and manage symptoms.
What is incontinence?
Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control that often results in involuntary leakage of urine or faeces. It's an issue that affects people of all ages - in fact, it's estimated that 1.1 million Kiwis do not have full bladder control. That's just over 20% of the population! There are different types of incontinence:
- Stress incontinence occurs when pressure is put on the bladder, such as during exercise, coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects.
- Urge incontinence occurs when people have a sudden need to urinate and cannot hold on long enough to get to the toilet. This type of incontinence can be common for those living with Alzheimer's disease.
- Overflow incontinence occurs when small amounts of urine leak from a bladder that's always full. For instance, a man can have trouble emptying his bladder if he has an enlarged prostate that's blocking the urethra.
- Functional incontinence occurs when people have normal bladder control, but have a problem getting to the toilet because of other physical, mental or environmental factors.
Why does incontinence become more common with age?
Ageing is not the direct cause of incontinence, but certain changes and health conditions that become more common with age can increase the likelihood of experiencing it. These may include changes to the pelvic floor muscles, hormone changes after menopause, prostate enlargement, Alzheimer's disease, or mobility issues that make it harder to reach the toilet in time.
What can be done?
- For many people, pelvic floor muscles can improve bladder control. These exercises strengthen the muscles that help support the bladder and bowel.
- Bladder training involves gradually increasing the time between toilet visits, helping the bladder hold greater volumes of urine comfortable and reducing feelings of urgency.
- Lifestyle changes can also help, such as maintaining physical activity, reducing bladder irritants such as caffeine, and addressing mobility challenges.
Where to go for more information
Continence NZ have developed a guide for older people and their whānau to help with understanding and caring for bladder and bowel health. You can download the guide or order a physical copy here. You can also explore their website to find more information too: www.continence.org.nz
If you need continence products, check out the providers on Making Life Easier at Home.
Updated: 3 Aug 2026