UCSF

Purpose of review

This review will highlight our current understanding of age-related changes in bladder function and propose important clinical considerations in the management of overactive bladder (OAB) specific to older women.

Recent findings

Frailty, functional and cognitive impairment, multimorbidity, polypharmacy, estrogen deficiency, and remaining life expectancy are important clinical factors to consider and may impact OAB symptom management in older women. Third-line therapies, particularly PTNS, may be preferable over second-line therapy in some cases. Due to the complexity within this population, the standard treatment algorithms may not be applicable, thus a broader, more holistic focus is recommended when managing OAB in older women.