Urinary incontinence affects up to 15 per cent of the population in Spain and is particularly common among people over the age of 65, especially those who require support with daily living. A study by the University Institute for Patient Care (IUP) examines how the use of absorbent products can be better managed so that it responds to each person's clinical and functional needs, rather than focusing solely on the supply of products.

Conducted within the framework of the Bimedica Classroom for Older Adults, the study explores the impact that choosing the most appropriate absorbent products can have on quality of life and on preventing complications associated with incontinence, such as dermatitis and pressure injuries. The study also compares different models for the prescribing, supply and dispensing of absorbent products currently used in Spain and elsewhere in Europe.

Using an expert consensus methodology, the study proposes that prescribing should take into account factors such as a person's level of dependency, comfort, autonomy and living environment. Under this model, nursing professionals would play a particularly important role in assessing functional needs and adapting products to the requirements of each patient.

"We believe that the procurement of absorbent products by the healthcare system should incorporate quality criteria and health outcomes, and that greater attention should be paid to the experiences of users and carers. "It is also important to tackle the stigma associated with incontinence and strengthen support for people affected by the condition, as well as for those around them," says Boi Ruiz, director of the IUP.

The Bimedica Classroom for Older Adults, which is linked to the University Institute for Patient Care at UIC, promotes research and training initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of older people, with a particular focus on urinary incontinence and on supporting patients and those around them.