Question: Is more frequent urination a normal part of aging?
Answer: As the bladder ages, the compliance of the bladder decreases, leaving it more susceptible to irritation—which causes increased urinary frequency. So, yes, frequent urination is more common – but not always normal – as we age.
And there are more comorbidities we see with age that impact the bladder as well: kidney disease from diabetes/hypertension, constipation, muscle wasting/atrophy, surgical interventions (such as hysterectomy) and menopause, along with enlarged prostates in male-identified individuals.
What can be done to help or stop frequent urination?
Ways to optimize bladder functionality as we age include strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, increasing water intake to avoid excessive bladder irritation from concentrated urine, avoiding constipation, and seeking medical attention when your urinary symptoms and routines are noticeably changing.
There is so much confusion that happens when we say things are “normal” and we push them aside, thinking we have to deal with those concerns because we are getting “old.” However, we need to push those scripts and question any change that’s happening in our bodies (especially when it comes to bladder function), ensuring that our urinary system is operating to the top of its capacity. So, don’t always assume your urinary frequency is normal—get it checked out!
There is so much confusion that happens when we say things are “normal” and we push them aside, thinking we have to deal with those concerns because we are getting “old.” However, we need to push those scripts and question any change that’s happening in our bodies.