Urinary incontinence after 60: understanding the issue and regaining confidence

After the age of 60, more and more men experience episodes of urinary incontinence. Having a few occasional leaks does not mean you are losing control of your body, nor does it mean this is the beginning of an inevitable decline.

Incontinence is not a normal consequence of ageing. It is a symptom with identifiable causes and, above all, effective solutions. Whether you have noticed a few drops after urinating or more significant leaks during physical effort, there are concrete ways to regain comfort and confidence.

This reality affects millions of men who, like you, continue to lead active lives and refuse to let this issue limit their daily routine. Together, we will explore the real causes of incontinence after 60, identify the different types of leaks to better understand them, and above all discover the range of solutions available to help you regain peace of mind. In the vast majority of cases, male incontinence can be managed very effectively with the right approach.

 

Incontinence after 60: more common, but not inevitable

Understanding the figures

Statistics show a gradual increase in incontinence with age. According to the French Association of Urology, around 10% of men are affected at the age of 60. This figure rises to 30% after the age of 90. Looked at another way, even after 90, 70% of men experience no incontinence at all.

This condition is therefore neither systematic nor an unavoidable consequence of ageing. The majority of older men maintain satisfactory bladder control throughout their lives.

Why does it increase with age?

Age itself is not the direct cause. Rather, it is the accumulation of risk factors over time. As the years pass, several physiological changes occur: pelvic floor muscles naturally lose tone, the prostate increases in size in most men, and certain health conditions become more common.

In addition, many men take several medications for blood pressure, heart conditions or sleep, which may have side effects on bladder function. Reduced physical activity also weakens deep muscular support.

Different levels of severity

Male incontinence after 60 presents in different forms. In around 60% of cases, it is mild, involving a few occasional drops that are easy to manage with discreet protection. Moderate incontinence affects around 30% of men and involves more frequent leaks requiring adapted protection. Only about 10% experience severe incontinence with significant loss of control.

This distribution is reassuring. The vast majority of cases are manageable with simple solutions. Having a few leaks after 60 does not mean you will completely lose control.

 

The main causes of male incontinence after 60

Prostate-related issues

The prostate is responsible for more than half of male incontinence cases after 60. Benign prostatic enlargement affects around 50% of men at this age. As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, making it difficult to empty the bladder fully and causing overflow leakage.

Men who have undergone prostate surgery for cancer may also experience temporary or permanent incontinence due to weakened sphincter control. Chronic prostatitis can further disrupt urinary control.

Weakening of the pelvic floor

The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder and play a key role in continence. After 60, these muscles naturally weaken, especially with reduced physical activity. Abdominal weight gain increases pressure on the bladder, while long periods of sitting further contribute to muscle weakening.

Neurological conditions

Certain neurological conditions become more common with age and can affect bladder control. Parkinson’s disease leads to incontinence in around 30% of patients. Stroke can disrupt nerve signals to the bladder. Diabetes, which is widespread after 60, may cause nerve damage that affects urinary function.

Early cognitive changes may also delay the perception of the need to urinate.

Medication side effects

Many medications commonly prescribed after 60 can influence bladder function. Diuretics increase urine production. Alpha-blockers used for prostate conditions may cause leakage. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications affect muscle tone. Sleeping tablets reduce night-time awareness.

Medication should never be stopped without medical advice. If you suspect a treatment is worsening your symptoms, discuss it with your doctor.

Lifestyle factors that worsen symptoms

Certain habits can aggravate urinary problems. Excessive coffee intake has a diuretic and irritating effect. Alcohol increases urine production and reduces control. Smoking causes chronic coughing, which strains the pelvic floor. Chronic constipation increases pressure on the bladder.

Identifying the underlying cause is essential in choosing the most effective solution.

The three most common types of incontinence after 60

Stress incontinence

Stress incontinence accounts for around 25% of cases in older men. Leaks occur during physical effort such as coughing, sneezing, lifting or standing up. The main cause is weakness of the urinary sphincter and pelvic floor muscles, often following prostate surgery.

Pelvic floor rehabilitation is highly effective for this type. In everyday life, discreet washable incontinence underwear allows you to remain active without concern.

Urge incontinence

More common, affecting around 40% of cases, urge incontinence is characterised by sudden, intense urges that are impossible to delay. The bladder contracts unpredictably, leaving only seconds to reach a toilet. This overactive bladder is often linked to prostate enlargement or neurological conditions.

Medication may help calm bladder contractions. Suitable absorbent underwear provides reassurance both day and night.

Mixed incontinence

Mixed incontinence combines stress and urge symptoms and affects around 35% of men. It requires a combined approach, including pelvic floor exercises, medication, lifestyle changes and appropriate protection.

Keeping a bladder diary for a few days can help identify your type of incontinence and guide treatment.

 

Practical solutions using male incontinence underwear

Pelvic floor exercises

Kegel exercises remain one of the most effective solutions for male incontinence. They can be done sitting, which is ideal for older men. Contract the pelvic floor muscles, hold for five seconds, then relax for five seconds. Three sets of ten repetitions per day are sufficient.

Results usually appear after three to six months of regular practice.

Lifestyle adjustments

Simple changes can significantly improve symptoms. Plan regular toilet visits every two to three hours rather than waiting for a strong urge. Limit coffee to two cups per day and avoid it after mid-afternoon. Maintain hydration but reduce fluid intake in the evening to limit night-time urination.

Even modest weight loss can reduce leaks. Stopping smoking reduces coughing and pelvic floor strain.

Modern, discreet protection

Modern washable incontinence underwear bears no resemblance to old-fashioned disposable products. They look like regular underwear while providing effective protection. Briefs are ideal for light daily leaks, while boxers offer enhanced security for longer outings or overnight use.

These solutions are reusable, cost-effective over time and environmentally friendly. Bamboo fibre is naturally antibacterial and gentle on sensitive skin.

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, medications may be prescribed to calm the bladder or improve urine flow. In some cases, adjusting existing treatments is enough. Surgery is considered only for severe cases that do not respond to conservative measures.

Living normally with washable incontinence underwear

Incontinence should not prevent you from enjoying life. With the right underwear, you can continue sports, travel and social activities without fear. Modern protection is invisible under clothing and comfortable throughout the day.

A simple daily routine builds confidence: empty the bladder fully, perform brief pelvic floor exercises and wear appropriate protection. Washable underwear is easy to manage and fits seamlessly into everyday life.

When to seek medical advice

Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen suddenly, if you notice blood in your urine, or if pain accompanies leakage. Your GP is the first point of contact, followed by a urologist or pelvic floor specialist if needed.

The sooner you seek advice, the simpler and more effective the solutions tend to be.

Conclusion: regaining confidence with the right solutions

 

Urinary incontinence after 60 is common, but it is neither inevitable nor untreatable. In most cases, identifiable causes can be addressed effectively. From pelvic floor exercises to lifestyle changes and modern absorbent underwear, a wide range of solutions exists.

With the right approach, millions of men continue to live active, confident lives. Do not let urinary leaks dictate your daily routine. Take action, explore the available solutions, and regain the freedom to enjoy life fully.