Urology Conditions: Why it matters for men, especially as they age

The urinary system plays a crucial role in maintaining your body’s balance and removing waste. Therefore, in this article, we discuss numerous urology conditions, and also ways to help protect yourself against them.

The urinary system consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.  The kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, turning them into urine.  Subsequently, that urine travels through the ureters into the bladder, where it’s stored until you’re ready to go to the toilet.  When you urinate, urine flows out of the bladder through the urethra and exits the body.  This system helps regulate your blood pressure, fluid levels, and electrolyte balance – all vital for good health.

Often, urological health is often overlooked, but for men, especially as they age, it plays a crucial role in their overall wellbeing.  As men get older, conditions like prostate enlargement, erectile dysfunction, and urinary incontinence become more common, but they’re not inevitable.

Common urology conditions in men over 50

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can cause frequent urination or a weak urine stream.
• Prostate Cancer: One of the most common cancers in older men – often treatable when caught early.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Can result from age-related changes, cardiovascular disease, or other health conditions.
• Urinary Incontinence: Loss of bladder control due to weakened pelvic muscles or prostate treatments.
• Kidney Problems: Including kidney stones and infections, which can increase in frequency with age and lifestyle factors.

How do we help men with urology conditions?

The good news?

There are many practical steps men can take to maintain good urological health and catch issues early. 

Therefore, working within the care industry, carers play a crucial role in supporting men’s urological health, not just physically, but also by encouraging open conversations and healthy habits.

Here’s a practical, actionable list of things that carers can do to help maintain or improve urological health for men as they age:

Urology conditions require good hydration

Offer water regularly during your daily visits and monitor fluid intake (especially if they forget to drink).  Staying hydrated helps prevent UTIs, kidney stones, and bladder irritation.

Tip: Use a water bottle with time markings or set reminders.

Support a balanced diet

Consequently prepare meals for your customers that include vegetables, fruits (like berries and tomatoes), whole grains, and healthy fats.  A diet rich in nutrients supports prostate and kidney health.

Tip: Reduce salt, red meat, and processed foods which can aggravate certain urological issues.

Promote regular bathroom habits

Help establish a routine – encourage regular bathroom visits and look out for any signs of urgency or discomfort.  This will help avoid bladder strain, support incontinence management, and promote healthy habits.

Tip: Pay attention to signs of difficulty urinating or changes in frequency.

Someone with a urology condition may need help with continence care

Assist your customer with hygiene routines, changing pads or absorbent products, and skin care.  In doing so you will help prevent infections, discomfort, and loss of dignity.

Tip: Use discreet, high-quality continence products and involve the person in choices if possible.

Encourage physical activity

Support daily movement, even short walks and stretching will help.  Exercise improves circulation, maintains weight, and can support bladder control.

Tip: Work with a physiotherapist if mobility is limited.

Assist with medical appointments and screenings

If needed, help your customer book and attend urology check-ups or screenings (e.g. prostate exams, urine tests, PSA blood tests).  Early detection of a urology is key for conditions like prostate cancer or BPH.

Tip: Record all attendance of appointments and advise the office of any changes and test results as needed.

Support medication management

Ensure medications are taken correctly, as per the detailed information on the care plan.  Some medications for urology conditions may treat conditions like BPH, overactive bladder, or infections.  Missed doses or incorrect use can lead to worsening symptoms for your customer.

One final thought on urology conditions

Finally, your role as a carer is incredibly valuable.  By offering daily support, encouragement, and attention to early signs, you’re not only helping with your customers’ physical health – you’re also boosting their confidence, independence, and dignity.

About Caremark Cheltenham and Gloucester

We provide a range of care services, including assisting with urology conditions. Click here to find out what other services we provide.