The impact of nocturia on older people - implications for nursing practice.
Nocturia is the most common and under-recognized urinary symptom, experienced by the majority of older people and increasing in prevalence with advancing age. It is associated with a range of debilitating effects including sleep disturbances, falls and instability, depression, and social isolation, yet it is accepted by many as a natural consequence of ageing. However nocturia, like most other lower urinary tract symptoms, is responsive to a range of simple lifestyle advice and behavioural interventions that may be delivered by nurses. This article calls for a raised awareness of this 'silent condition' to enable nurses to recognize nocturia, identify its impact on individuals and initiate and deliver intervention to improve the health and well-being of older people.
Booth
Joanne
J
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Community Health, Caledonian university, Glasgow.
McMillan
Laura
L
D000058:Accidental Falls; D000368:Aged; D003863:Depression / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008875:Middle Aged; D053158:Nocturia / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D009729:Nursing; D012307:Risk Factors; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000150:complications