Urinary Incontinence and Fall Risk: Managing Both Through Prevention and Treatment

If you experience Urinary Incontinence (UI), you’re not alone — and small steps can help you stay safer, sleep better and feel more in control. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and simple strategies to help you manage symptoms and improve your daily comfort.

Urinary incontinence & fall risk: How they’re connected

Urinary incontinence (UI) is very common and often treatable. What many people don’t realize is that UI and falls are closely linked. 

Rushing to the bathroom, especially at night, can increase the chance of slips, trips, or loss of balance, while frequent nighttime bathroom visits may disrupt sleep and lead to daytime fatigue — a major contributor to falls. Some medications used to manage bladder issues can also affect balance or cause dizziness. In addition, concerns about leakage or reduced confidence may lead to rushed or awkward movement, further raising fall risk. The encouraging news is that addressing UI can help improve safety and reduce the risk of falling.

Taking control of UI can improve safety

Simple steps can make daily life easier:

Bladder training and pelvic floor exercises
If you meet the Medicare medical necessity requirements, you could qualify to access bladder training or pelvic floor exercises through in‑network physical therapy. See outpatient rehabilitation services in your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for a cost breakdown.

Wearing absorbent pads
If you are enrolled in a plan with an Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) allowance, you can use this allowance to buy absorbent/protective pads.

Adjusting fluids or caffeine
Try slowing down on caffeine or talking to your PCP about adjusting your fluid intake later in the day.

Treating nighttime symptoms
If you are getting up frequently to use the bathroom or feel like you are never fully emptying, talk to your doctor about available solutions.

Reviewing medications that affect bladder or balance
Write down all medications and supplements and review them with your PCP to understand whether side effects may be contributing to urgency, dizziness or imbalance.

Talking with your doctor can help identify the easiest and most effective options for you.

Preventing falls: You have more power than you think

Falls don’t have to be a normal part of aging — they’re often preventable. Improving bladder habits can help, and combining that with small lifestyle changes offers even more protection:

Stay active to improve strength and balance
You have access to One Pass®, a benefit that gives you access to in‑network gyms and fitness classes.

Add lighting and remove tripping hazards at home
Adding nightlights in hallways and bathrooms and removing loose rugs or clutter can make it easier to move safely, especially during nighttime bathroom trips.

Review medications with your doctor
This may help reduce side effects like dizziness or urinary urgency.

Use a walker or other assistance
If there is a medical need and your provider submits approval to our plan, you may qualify for a walker. See durable medical equipment (DME) in your EOC for more information.

How your doctor can help

Your doctor can support you with:

• Treatment options for UI that also reduce nighttime bathroom trips
• Exercises and tips to stay balanced and confident
• A full medication review to lower both bladder symptoms and fall risk

You don’t have to manage this alone. Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing UI or are concerned about falling. These are common conditions that clinicians regularly evaluate and treat, and both can be managed when addressed early.

Managing UI and fall risk together

Treating UI and preventing falls work hand in hand — and taking the first step can help you feel safer, sleep better and stay independent.