Kentucky Medication Aide (KMA) State Practice Exam

What is a common urinary system issue in the elderly?

1. Kidney stones

2. Incontinence

3. Frequent urination

4. Urinary tract infections

The correct answer is: Incontinence

Incontinence is a common urinary system issue in the elderly due to various factors associated with aging. As people age, the muscles that control urination can weaken, leading to a lack of control over bowel and bladder functions. This can be influenced by physical changes, neurological conditions, medications, and other health issues that become more prevalent with age. Incontinence can manifest in various forms, such as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, or functional incontinence. It affects not only the physical well-being of elderly individuals but also has psychological impacts, including embarrassment and social withdrawal. Thus, recognizing and addressing incontinence is critical for maintaining the quality of life in the elderly population. While other urinary issues like kidney stones, frequent urination, and urinary tract infections also affect older adults, incontinence is notably more prevalent and impacts daily living, making it a key concern.