Urinary incontinence in the elderly. Often simple to treat when properly evaluated.

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent problem in the elderly, and its medical, social, and economic costs are significant. Incontinence may be transient or long-standing; reversible causes must be ruled out. Thorough history taking, a targeted physical examination, and simple office tests usually lead to a diagnosis. When the type of incontinence is known, appropriate treatment may bring improvement in symptoms or a return to continence. Clinicians and patients alike benefit from the realization that urinary incontinence is a treatable problem.