The relationship of Kegel exercises, stress incontinence and self-concept in a residential population of elderly females

A major health care problem plaguing the elderly is urinary incontinence. This 7-week study investigated the influence of instruction (group or individual) of Kegel exercises, restoration of continence, and changes in self-concept related to the performance of Kegel exercises in a residential population of 20 elderly females (ages 60 and older) experiencing stress incontinence. The researcher used a six-month and weekly "Self Assessment of Continence Evaluation" (Henderson & Taylor, 1987) and "Sherwood's Self-Concept Inventory" (Sherwood, 1962). The researcher developed a "Demographic Questionnaire" and a "Failure to Comply Questionnaire." The study used measures of central tendency (mean, median, and mode), and measures of variability (standard deviation and range), frequency distribution, T-test, and measures of correlation (Pearson and Spearman) to analyze data obtained.

The T-test results were not significant at the 0.05 level for (a) number of Kegel exercises performed and group versus individual instruction, (b) continent versus incontinent subjects and change in self-concept, and (c) continent versus incontinent subjects and weekly compliance with Kegel exercises. The measures of correlation results were not significant at the 0.05 level for (a) number of Kegel exercises performed and post-self-concept, and (b) continent versus incontinent subjects and weekly compliance with Kegel exercises. Frequency distribution showed (a) improvement of continence with increase in number of Kegel exercises performed, and (b) increased compliance with Kegel exercises as the study progressed. This study discusses implications for nursing actions and future research.