October 10, 2007 (Charleston, SC) – Ms. Levkowicz led two major sessions that focused on the understanding and assessment of incontinence along with the treatment and management options available to individuals who live with the condition. NAFC has now added these presentations to its list of educational materials for healthcare providers to use as teaching tools to more clearly explain bladder and bowel health to clients.

This conference, intended for mental health professionals and Senior Center Directors, offered Continuing Education Credit for a number of disciplines, including: Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Nursing Home Administrators, Social Workers, Activity Directors, Recreational Therapists, Certified Addiction Counselors, and Licensed Professional Counselors and School Counselors.

The first presentation, “Understanding and Assessing Incontinence,” was a complete overview of the types and causes of bladder and bowel control problems. It covered prevalence and obstacles that stand in the way of individuals seeking treatment. Also addressed were the economic burdens and direct link between urgency and elderly falls, introducing safe toileting as a practice to prevent falls and subsequent injuries. This session explained how incontinence can be more easily discussed and the significant role family members and caregivers play in the lives of those affected.

Ms. Levkowicz’s session, “Treatment and Management of Incontinence,” explained the importance of have a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers to most appropriately manage and treat the loss of bladder and bowel control. Pelvic floor muscle exercises were highlighted as the first step in regaining control for mild symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) and stress urinary incontinence. FDA approved medications, combination therapy (pharmaceuticals and behavioral therapy used together), and surgery are all discussed as options for improvement and oftentimes a cure. The importance of choosing appropriate management options was also emphasized, with additional information about proper hygiene and skin care.

NAFC has both of these comprehensive summarizations in the form of Power Point® presentations on CD available for $12.00. Call 1.800.BLADDER to order.

The conference provided other pertinent information related to:

• adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation;
• overviews for those new to the area of eldercare;
• developing new techniques for a variety of service systems.

Visit the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services to download a copy of the conference program or learn more about other educational opportunities:
http://www.state.wv.us/seniorservices/wvboss_article2.cfm?atl=C6E5728C-F51D-5659-AACEBCDFB690B83F&fs=1