Dementia and bladder and bowel control
This fact sheet explains that people with dementia may experience bladder and bowel control problems due to memory loss, confusion, difficulty recognising the urge to go, or trouble finding and using the toilet. Constipation, illness, and some medications can make symptoms worse.
Practical tips for carers include observing toileting patterns, assisting at regular times (especially after meals), keeping pathways clear, simplifying clothing, encouraging fluids and fibre, reducing caffeine, and preventing constipation.
Health professionals can assess causes, review medications, and recommend treatments or continence products. The National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66) provides free, confidential advice and support.
- Organisation:
- Topic:
- Target audience:
- General
- Service area:
- National
- Published:
- February 2017
- Last reviewed:
- May 2026
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