Iatrogenic incontinence in older people and people living with dementia: potentially modifiable contributing factors within institutional cultures of care

This discussion paper illuminates pervasive systemic inequalities for older people and people living with dementia who require support to maintain continence or manage incontinence in institutional care settings. Utilising an expert-led narrative synthesis approach and drawing on a large body of research, we identify five potentially modifiable causes of iatrogenic incontinence associated with the organisation and delivery of care in these settings. We call for greater attention to safeguard the continence of older people and people living with dementia as a welfare issue and human rights issue.