Quick Answers...
Does bladder capacity decrease with age, which leads to frequent urination?
Yes. The muscle of the bladder loses elasticity and tone.
Hence, the bladder holds almost 50% less urine (causing more
frequent urination) and empties less completely. The warning
period between the urge and actual urination is shortened or
lost as one ages. Muscular disability, spinal cord effects
on the bladder muscle, tumors, infection, anatomic damage to
the sphincters and/or bladder neck may cause incontinence in
advancing age. Other risks for incontinence in old age
include chronic disease, cognitive impairment, medications,
smoking, pelvic muscle weakness, low fluid intake, and
environment.
Linda Breytspraak, Center on Aging Studies, University of Missouri-Kansas City
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Last update: Sunday, July 06, 2008