[Fecal incontinence in the elderly].

Faecal incontinence in the elderly is not compatible with normal social function and leads to interventions and/or institutionalization. In homes for the elderly about 10% and in nursing homes 42.8% of the patients are faecally incontinent. There are predisposing, precipitating and uncleanliness factors. Four ways of faecal loss are described. The purposes of diagnosis and therapy are: 1. prevent and cure diseases, which cause unintentional faecal loss, 2. maintain lavatory visiting as long as possible and 3. prevent soiling the old patient himself and his surroundings.