- Functional incontinence (urinary and/or faecal) is often the result of an unsuitable environment for the type and level of disability the person experiences following a stroke
- Environmental assessment with individually tailored adaptations is a key component of a comprehensive bladder and bowel rehabilitation programme
- Individual tailoring of an environment includes considering privacy and maintenance of dignity for elimination activities. Ostaszkiewicz J.(2017). Reframing continence care in care-dependence. Geriatric Nursing, 38: 520-526. Ostaszkiewicz J. (2018). A conceptual model of the risk of elder abuseposed by incontinence and care dependence. International Journal of Older People Nursing, 13(2): e12182
- Environmental adaptation may involve structural modifications eg putting in a downstairs toilet facility, fitting of grab bars
- Environmental adaptation also includes provision of equipment eg commodes, urinals, toilet frames
- Successful environmental adaptation is an important aspect of bladder and bowel rehabilitation and requires a multidisciplinary approach
Page last reviewed: 31 Jan 2022
