The purpose of this descriptive correlational pilot research, which was conceptually based on the Roy Adaptation Model, was to discern if a relationship exists between urogenital distress and the psychosocial impact of urinary incontinence (UI) in elderly women. These issues are critical for rehabilitation nurses who work with this segment of the population. The study sample consisted of 17 community-dwelling women over the age of 60 who experienced UI at least once a week. A significant relationship between urogenital distress and the psychosocial impact of UI (r = .673, p = .003) was found. The negative psychosocial impact of UI on elderly women suggests that effective nursing interventions to promote optimal adaptation should be instituted. Healthcare professionals and the public at large must be educated to enhance their awareness of the problem so that women who have UI will seek and receive appropriate treatment.

A phenomenological study was conducted to answer the question: What can you tell me about dealing with urinary incontinence (UI)? This study was a pilot research project by the Maumee Bay Chapter of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses. Four dyads, caregivers and care recipients, living in home settings in northwestern Ohio composed the purposive sample. Transcription of each 1‐hour interview was reviewed with Colaizzi's (1978) method of data analysis. The analysis identified two themes: coping with care deficits, and supporting care abilities in the caregiver‐care recipient dyads. Caregiver suggestions were found that enhanced abilities to manage problems with UI. The study's findings contribute to rehabilitation nursing by providing important insights into dealing with UI from the perspectives of both caregivers and care recipients, by offering direction for nursing practice and education, and by being an impetus for further nursing research.

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