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Talking to your clients about incontinence
Bladder and bowel control problems can be distressing and embarrassing. Talking about them can be awkward for everyone involved. However, when your client tells you about their concerns, it is important to reassure them and help them to fully understand that:
- They are not alone - bladder and bowel control problems are very common;
- All age groups are affected, although it is more common amongst women, and older men;
- Incontinence is not a simple condition - there are many different causes, such as pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, neurological and other disorders, menopause, prostate problems or some medicines or diet.
and most importantly let your client know that
- With proper assessment, bladder and bowel control problems can be treated, effectively managed and often cured.
For some cultural groups, incontinence can also cause serious social problems and can be very difficult to discuss with even close relatives or friends. Consideration needs to be given to the special issues for these groups, particularly when arranging support for them in their community.
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders
Bladder and bowel control problems can cause much shame for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) people. Despite the fact that bladder and bowel control problems can cause physical, emotional and psychological problems, it is not well understood amongst these communities or openly discussed. This lack of information and discussion often leads to isolation.
A number of initiatives have been undertaken to combat the bladder and bowel control problems in ATSI communities, such as:
- A training program on bladder and bowel control problems especially for Aboriginal and Torres Island Health workers and piloted in the Northern Territory
- A joint initiative between an Aboriginal health organisation, GPs and a local continence service, aiming to build up the community's trust in the services being offered by taking them directly to the Indigenous people out on the land.
A series of resources specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are available on this site.
For leaflets and more information about bladder or bowel problems, product information and local continence services, please call continence advisors on the National Continence Helpline - 1800 33 00 66.
Page last updated 27 Mar 2009