Preventing deconditioning and incontinence in older people in acute care settings

Hospital-associated deconditioning is a recognised and well-known condition. It refers to a loss of physiological fitness and functional ability in a patient resulting from prolonged immobility, inactivity or bed rest during a period of hospitalisation. Many patients who experience deconditioning also have new or existing continence issues, although the link between deconditioning and incontinence is not well understood. This article explores deconditioning and incontinence among older people in acute care settings. It outlines the multifactorial links between the two conditions and reviews current practice with regards to continence care. The author also suggests some preventative strategies to reduce the risk of deconditioning and promote continence, thereby supporting patients to remain as independent as possible after their discharge from hospital.