| Continence may be affected by the following functional factors | |
|---|---|
| Decreased movement | Weakness/loss of sensation in a person’s arm or leg may make it difficult for them to get to the toilet or to use a urine bottle |
| Poor eyesight | May prevent a person finding the toilet and they may also be at increased risk of falling |
| Difficulty adjusting clothing | Decreased fine finger movement/dexterity may mean they are unable to open zips/buttons |
| Lack of awareness of need to void | Loss of sensation from bladder or bowel may lead to poor recognition of their need to empty their bladder or bowel |
| Balance Problems | Problems with sitting balance can make it difficult for someone to use a toilet or commode |
| Environmental | Inadequate toilet facilities with for example lack of appropriate aids and adaptations, may mean that a person is reluctant to use the toilet
Lack of privacy may mean that a person is reluctant to use a commode |
Page last reviewed: 01 Sep 2021