Urinary incontinence in men after 60: causes and confidence-building steps

For many Australian men, turning 60 marks a new chapter — one that can, unfortunately, come with unexpected bladder challenges. Urinary incontinence in men after 60 is far more common than most blokes realise, yet it remains one of the least talked-about health concerns in the country. Whether it's a few drops when you cough or a sudden, urgent need to find the nearest loo, incontinence doesn't have to dictate how you live your life. Understanding what's behind it — and knowing the practical steps you can take — is the first move toward reclaiming your confidence.

What causes urinary incontinence in men after 60?

The male urinary system relies on a coordinated effort between the bladder, the urethra, the pelvic floor muscles and the nervous system. As men age, changes in any of these components can lead to involuntary urine leakage. The prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra, plays a particularly significant role. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate — is remarkably common in men over 60 and can obstruct urine flow, leading to overflow incontinence or urgency.

Prostate cancer treatment is another leading cause. Surgery (radical prostatectomy) and radiation therapy can damage the sphincter muscles or nerves that control bladder function. According to the Continence Foundation of Australia, many men experience some degree of leakage following prostate surgery, though for a significant number it improves over time with the right support.

Other contributing factors include:

• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, stroke or multiple sclerosis, which can disrupt signals between the brain and bladder
• Type 2 diabetes, which may cause nerve damage affecting bladder control
• Chronic constipation, which places pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor
• Certain medications — including some blood pressure drugs and diuretics — that increase urine production or relax the bladder
• Obesity, which adds sustained pressure to the pelvic region

Recognising the signs early — frequent night-time trips to the bathroom (nocturia), dribbling after urination, or sudden urges that are hard to control — is essential. These symptoms deserve proper investigation, not dismissal as "just getting older."

Who it affects and why it matters in Australia

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reports that incontinence affects a substantial number of older Australians, with prevalence increasing markedly after the age of 60. While public conversation often centres on women's continence, men make up a significant share of those living with bladder leakage — particularly those who've undergone prostate treatment or live with chronic health conditions.

From busy retirees in Melbourne to active farmers in regional Queensland, urinary incontinence in men after 60 crosses every demographic and postcode. Yet stigma keeps many from seeking help. Research from the Continence Foundation of Australia suggests that men often wait years before raising the issue with a health professional, sometimes adapting their entire lifestyle — avoiding social outings, limiting travel, even reducing physical activity — rather than addressing the problem directly.

Here's the thing: untreated incontinence can lead to secondary health issues — skin irritation, urinary tract infections, disrupted sleep and, critically, social isolation and depression. In a country where mateship and outdoor living are part of the culture, losing confidence in your own body can be quietly devastating.

Evidence-based care pathways Australians can access

The good news is that effective treatment options exist, and the Australian healthcare system provides several pathways to access them. Your first step should be a conversation with your GP. Under Medicare Australia, consultations to discuss continence concerns are covered, and your GP can refer you to a urologist, a continence nurse adviser or a pelvic floor physiotherapist — all of which may attract Medicare rebates.

The RACGP (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) includes continence assessment in its guidelines for men's health checks after 60. If cost is a concern, look for bulk-billing GPs in your area — available in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and many regional centres — who can provide an initial assessment at no out-of-pocket expense.

Pelvic floor exercises: not just for women

One of the most effective, evidence-based interventions for male urinary incontinence is pelvic floor muscle training. These exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and help control the flow of urine. A qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist can design a tailored programme and teach you the correct technique — getting it wrong can actually make things worse. Many Australian men see meaningful improvement within eight to twelve weeks of consistent practise.

Beyond physiotherapy, your care team may recommend bladder retraining (gradually increasing the time between toilet visits), lifestyle modifications such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, or — where appropriate — medication. For men dealing with incontinence linked to BPH, alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors may be prescribed, some of which are available through the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme), making them more affordable. Supporting prostate health is also worth considering; Orykas Prostate Health is a supplement designed with this goal in mind.

How Orykas washable incontinence underwear supports confidence

While you're working on strengthening your pelvic floor or awaiting specialist assessment, managing day-to-day leakage with the right products makes an enormous difference to quality of life. Disposable pads and guards have long been the default, but many Australian men find them uncomfortable, conspicuous and wasteful — not to mention the ongoing cost.

Washable incontinence underwear offers a practical, discreet alternative. Men's Washable Incontinence Briefs by Orykas are designed to look and feel like regular underwear while providing built-in absorbent protection. For men who prefer a longer-leg fit, the Men's Washable Incontinence Boxer Briefs offer the same leak-proof confidence in a style many blokes already wear every day.

The benefits of switching to washable incontinence underwear include:

• Reduced environmental waste — no more bags of disposables heading to landfill each week
• Cost savings over time compared to continuously purchasing single-use pads
• A more natural look and feel, helping men feel like themselves rather than a patient
• Odour-control technology that provides discretion throughout the day
• Easy machine washing — simply toss them in with your regular laundry

Whether you're heading to the bowls club, walking the dog along the beach or catching up with grandkids, having reliable protection that doesn't rustle, shift or show through clothing can genuinely restore your sense of normality. For men just starting their continence management journey, The Essential Orykas Set offers a convenient way to try different styles and find what works best.

NDIS, CAPS and funding options for Australians

Managing incontinence does come with costs — from specialist appointments to continence products. Fortunately, the Australian government provides several funding pathways to help ease the financial burden for eligible individuals.

The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS), administered by Services Australia, provides a yearly payment to help cover the cost of continence products for people with permanent and severe incontinence. To be eligible, you'll typically need an assessment from a health professional confirming your condition. CAPS can be used toward the purchase of washable incontinence underwear, making products like Orykas briefs and boxer briefs a practical choice for those receiving the subsidy.

For men whose incontinence is related to a broader disability, the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) may include continence supports within an individual's plan. This can cover continence assessments, products and even home modifications such as accessible bathrooms. Speak with your NDIS planner or support coordinator to ensure continence needs are appropriately captured in your plan.

Additionally, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) provides continence support for eligible veterans — another important pathway for older Australian men. If you're unsure which scheme applies to you, the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 offers free, confidential advice from specialist continence nurses who can guide you through the options.

Lifestyle strategies that make a real difference

Beyond medical treatment and the right products, everyday habits play a powerful role in managing urinary incontinence in men over 60. Small, consistent changes can reduce symptom severity and improve overall wellbeing.

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the pelvic floor and bladder. Even modest weight loss — five to ten per cent of body weight — has been shown to improve continence outcomes. Regular physical activity, particularly walking, swimming and gentle resistance training, supports pelvic floor strength without placing excessive strain on the body.

Fluid management is another practical lever. Many men make the mistake of drastically cutting their water intake, which can actually concentrate urine and irritate the bladder. Instead, aim for steady, moderate hydration throughout the day — roughly six to eight glasses — and reduce intake in the two hours before bed to minimise nocturia. Limiting caffeine and alcohol, both of which act as bladder irritants, can also provide noticeable relief.

Keeping a bladder diary for a week or two is a simple yet powerful tool. Recording when you drink, when you urinate and any leakage episodes gives your GP or continence nurse concrete data to work with and helps identify patterns you mightn't otherwise notice.

Frequently asked questions

Is urinary incontinence in men after 60 a normal part of ageing?

While the risk of incontinence increases with age, it isn't an inevitable or "normal" part of getting older. It's a medical condition with identifiable causes and, in many cases, effective treatments. No Australian man should accept bladder leakage as something he simply has to live with. If you're experiencing symptoms, speak with your GP — early intervention generally leads to better outcomes.

What type of incontinence is most common in older Australian men?

Urgency incontinence — a sudden, intense need to urinate followed by involuntary leakage — is one of the most common types in men over 60, often linked to an overactive bladder. Overflow incontinence, caused by an enlarged prostate blocking complete bladder emptying, is also prevalent. Stress incontinence, where leakage occurs during physical exertion or coughing, is more frequently associated with post-prostatectomy recovery. Your GP can help determine which type you're experiencing.

Can pelvic floor exercises really help men with incontinence?

Yes. Pelvic floor muscle training is one of the most well-supported interventions for male urinary incontinence, particularly after prostate surgery. The Continence Foundation of Australia recommends that men work with a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist to learn the correct technique. Consistency is key — most men notice improvement within two to three months of daily practise.

How do I access CAPS funding for continence products in Australia?

To access the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS), you'll need an assessment from a medical professional or continence nurse confirming you have permanent and severe incontinence. Your GP can initiate this process. Once approved, you receive an annual payment through Services Australia that can be put toward continence products of your choice, including washable incontinence underwear. For guidance, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

This article is informational and does not replace advice from your GP, a qualified continence nurse or a specialist.