World Continence Week 2024 - Let’s Talk About Incontinence

World Continence Week 2024: Let's talk.

World Continence Week is a global initiative that aims to raise awareness about incontinence, a condition affecting millions worldwide. Initiated by the International Continence Society, World Continence Week has been observed annually since 2009. The campaign has grown each year, increasing participation from countries across the globe. Each year, the event focuses on different themes to address various aspects of incontinence. This year, we focus on one of the most important aspects: having open and honest conversations about incontinence with friends, family, and health professionals. Let’s talk!

This week-long event brings together individuals, healthcare professionals, and organizations to highlight the importance of continence care and support. The primary goals are to educate the public, reduce the stigma associated with incontinence, and promote advancements in continence care. The best way to achieve these goals is by talking openly to break barriers and get the right support from professional healthcare providers and loved ones.

Incontinence affects people of all ages and genders, with a higher prevalence among older adults and women. Over 5 million Australians—one in four people aged 15 years or over—are incontinent. It significantly impacts daily activities, emotional well-being, and social interactions, leading to a diminished quality of life if not properly managed.

The Importance of Awareness

Stigma is one of the biggest challenges faced by those with incontinence. This World continence Week let's raise awareness and help to normalise conversations about continence health, reducing the shame and embarrassment many feel. Here is a list of things you can do this week, and every day of the year, to support awareness and take proactive steps:

1. Educate

   • Education is the best way to manage and prevent incontinence. Getting accurate information about the condition, its causes, and treatment options empowers individuals to make informed health decisions.

2. Resources and Support Services

   • Today, you can find all the information and support online, including websites, blogs, and social media platforms that offer accessible and up-to-date content on continence care.

3. Join Support Groups

   • Remember, you are not alone. You can find supportive groups near you to help create a sense of community and belonging. Sharing experiences and advice with others is tremendously beneficial for understanding and confronting the challenges of incontinence.

4. Professional Help

   • Seeking professional help from healthcare providers is key to managing incontinence effectively. Doctors, nurses, and therapists can provide personalized care plans and support.

5. Empowering Individuals

   • Knowledge and resources enable individuals to take control of their continence health. This empowerment leads to improved self-esteem, better health outcomes, and a proactive approach to managing the condition.

6. Lifestyle Adjustments

   • Making some adjustments to your daily habits can help improve incontinence. Regular exercise, especially pelvic floor exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing stress can positively impact continence health.

Tips for Taking the First Step to Talk About Incontinence

Talking about incontinence can be challenging, but it's an important step towards managing and seeking support for the condition. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation:

1. Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a quiet and private setting where you feel comfortable and have enough time to talk without interruptions.

2. Be Prepared: Educate yourself about incontinence beforehand. Understanding the condition and its impact can help you explain it more effectively.

3. Use Open and Direct Language: Be clear and specific when discussing your symptoms or concerns. Avoid vague terms and speak confidently.

4. Involve Supportive Individuals: Consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional who can provide emotional support and guidance.

5. Listen and Validate: Allow the other person to ask questions and express their thoughts. Validate their responses and reassure them that incontinence is a common health issue.

6. Seek Professional Help: If needed, encourage seeking advice from healthcare professionals who specialize in continence care. They can provide personalized guidance and support.

Starting the conversation about incontinence can lead to better understanding, support, and management of the condition. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take the first step this World Continence Week towards improving your continence health.

Do you still need to seek help for your incontinence?

This international continence week Contact the National Continence Helpline at 1800 180 262. Staffed by Nurse Continence Specialists, the helpline offers free and confidential information, advice, and support. They provide a wide range of continence resources and information on local continence services. The Helpline is available to anyone living in Australia and is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. It operates 8am-8pm (AEST) Monday to Friday, excluding national public holidays.