Dealing with incontinence is costly. The direct and indirect costs related to treating and management of incontinence can be huge. But what’s notable is its impact on the Australian economy. According to a recent report from Deloitte Access Economics, the cost of incontinence to the country is now a staggering $100 billion. The expense that the country has to bear in terms of management of the condition has a significant effect on the economy, which spans healthcare systems, businesses and individuals.
The new report has been commissioned for the Continence Foundation of Australia. So, it’s worth discussing some more facts regarding this specific health condition. If you are in Perth or Melbourne and suffering from incontinence, this blog can give you a perspective regarding how the country is now dealing with the condition.
A Summary of the Report
With time, NDIS continence assessments in Perth & Melbourne and other parts of the country has increased substantially. In fact, data from the report suggests that it will increase further.
Some of the facts that the report revealed are:
- It’s estimated that 2.4 million men and 4.8 million women living with some type of urinary and or faecal incontinence
- In 2023, the direct cost of incontinence was $66.6 billion
- $33.8 billion is the additional expenses related to the well-being for those living with the condition
- Wellbeing costs include unemployment due to incontinence, days off work, and seeking extra care and support
- 65 and below it is the age of people living with incontinence, and the percentage of individuals suffering from it is 71%
- By 2032, the number of Australians living with some form of incontinence will rise to 8.6 million, representing 34.1% of the population
According to Dr Gian Sberna, CEO of the Continence Foundation of Australia, the condition is costing people a large amount of money annually for wellbeing. From this report, it is clear that comprehensive support, increased awareness and better treatment options are required. In fact, continence specialists in Perth & Melbourne are also stressing this fact.
A Few More Facts
According to the report, despite the prevalence of incontinence, it still remains underreported and underrecognised. Around 71% of people living with incontinence are aged 65 and younger, and people living with the condition can be found mostly in aged care facilities.
Individuals with incontinence living in rural and regional areas have reported difficulties in accessing services, which highlights the gaps in referral pathways as well as challenges related to healthcare coordination. Furthermore, concerns are still present when it comes to the capabilities of the general health and aged care workforce that manage incontinence.
Finally, the report projects that by 2032, Australians living with some form of incontinence will rise to 8.6 million, which is around 34.1% of the population. This increase is due to the ageing population and highlights the need for the appropriate measures to manage the increasing burden of incontinence on individuals and the society.
Connect Now For Continence Assessment Or Management
If you require professional continence assessment or management, CaptainK Supports and Cares can cater to your needs. Call us at 0493 370 126 to book an appointment or send your queries to our email, and we will reply soon.
Information obtained from or as per CFA(Continence Foundation of Australia)
