title: Systematic review of descriptive studies that investigated associated factors with the management of incontinence in older people in care homes.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Incontinence is prevalent among older populations and residents in care homes.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This paper is a review of descriptive studies that investigated associated factors related to managing urinary incontinence in older people in care homes. A systematic literature review was undertaken. MEDLINE and CINHAL were searched from 1996-2010 using the Cochrane Incontinence Review Group search strings for urinary and faecal incontinence including all research designs.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Sixteen studies were identified that reported on associated factors related to comorbidities, management preferences, policies, staff views and knowledge or methodological studies. Non-invasive methods involving toileting and use of pads were common management approaches. No studies aimed at maintaining continence were identified.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Factors associated with incontinence need to also be considered when planning and managing care for individuals, and developing and designing systems of care within care homes. Further study in care home populations to change or inform practice and provide effective care is warranted. Preventive studies that maintain continence are required.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Older people and their families should be involved with decisions regarding their preferred care, goals, management and outcomes for managing incontinence, promoting or maintaining continence.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Health, Edge Hill University, Lancashire, UK. Brenda.Roe@edgehill.ac.uk
authors.forename: Brenda
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Roe
authors.forename: Lisa
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Flanagan
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Jack
authors.forename: Christine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Shaw
authors.forename: Kate
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: Alan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chung
authors.forename: James
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Barrett
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000150:complications; D003213:Conditioning, Psychological; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization / Q000009:adverse effects; D016496:Incontinence Pads; D009740:Nursing Staff; D016134:Organizational Policy; D057240:Patient Preference; D012112:Residential Facilities; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000451:nursing*; D014554:Urination