According to the National Institute on Aging, at least one in 10 adults over 65 have a problem with urinary incontinence or an overactive bladder.

Urge Incontinence, Overflow Incontinence, Stress Incontinence, Functional Incontinence, Mixed Incontinence and Total Incontinence. Regardless of whether you or someone you know experiences one or more of these symptoms, know you are not alone. 

The following is a brief description and summary of the many types of urinary incontinence.

• Urge Incontinence:

This is the sudden urge to urinate which is usually followed by leakage of urine.  You may also feel the need to go often and may need to go several times during the night.   This may also be referred to as Overactive Bladder.

• Overflow Incontinence:

This is the frequent or constant dribble or leakage of urine.  Usually, the results when the bladder fails to empty completely and is accompanied by a weak urine stream.  Commonly seen in men with prostate problems.

• Stress Incontinence:

This can occur when sneezing, coughing, exercising or lifting something.   All of these can put additional pressure on the bladder.   Childbirth can also result in weakened sphincter muscle of the bladder.

• Functional Incontinence:

Many older adults experience this type of incontinence due to the physical or mental abilities which may prevent them from getting to the toilet in time.

• Mixed Incontinence:

If you experience more than one type of incontinence at one time.  Such as stress and urge incontinence together.

• Total Incontinence:

Used to describe someone with continuous and uncontrolled leaking.   Usually involves full voids of urine and can occur at any time during the day or night.