Published Paper Details:

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is defined as the involuntary loss of urine and is a significant public health concern worldwide. It affects 13.9% of males and 51.1% of females. Although commonly associated with elderly and parous women, UI is also reported among younger and nulliparous women. The condition negatively impacts quality of life, causing embarrassment, psychological distress, and social withdrawal. Risk factors include increasing age, parity, vaginal delivery, obesity, pelvic surgery, chronic cough, constipation, and chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and neurological disorders. OBJECTIVE To find the awareness of urinary incontinence in elderly females in Alandi area using a self-made questionnaire. METHODS A observational study was conducted on 373 participants aged 60 to 80 years in alandi . Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing awareness, symptoms of urinary leakage, impact on daily activities, and knowledge regarding physiotherapy management. Results: The findings revealed that 71% of females were unaware of urinary incontinence, while only 28.7% had knowledge about it. Night-time urination more than once was reported by 44.7% of participants. Urine leakage during coughing or sneezing was experienced by 44.5%, and 31.3% reported leakage while bending or lifting objects. Leakage during walking or exercise was reported by 21.2%. Although 19.8% required frequent underwear changes and 18.2% reported work being affected, the majority reported minimal functional limitation. Awareness regarding physiotherapy was low: 74.3% were unaware of physiotherapy, 95.7% did not know it could be used for UI, and 97.9% were unaware that it could reduce symptoms. Additionally, 79.9% had never consulted a gynaecologist for the condition. Conclusion: The study highlights low awareness and poor healthcare-seeking behaviour regarding urinary incontinence and its physiotherapy management. Community education and early intervention strategies are essential to improve knowledge, reduce stigma, and enhance quality of life among women.