What is Functional Incontinence?

Tag: incontinence

Published: December 12, 2025

Last Updated: January 13, 2026

Summary

Learn what functional incontinence is, how it differs from other types, and which products and strategies can help manage it effectively.

Functional incontinence occurs when physical or mental limitations result in leakage of urine or stool. People with functional incontinence may have a urinary or bowel system that works perfectly fine, but due to other circumstances, they cannot reach a bathroom in time.

There are two primary factors that usually result in functional incontinence: physical immobility and mental impairment. People who have trouble moving, or who cannot move at all, may be unable to reach a bathroom when it is needed. Mental disorders can also cause people to struggle to use a bathroom, resulting in leakage.

Here are some of the common causes and risk factors that lead to functional incontinence:

Alzheimer’s and Dementia often can lead to challenges with functional incontinence.

As the disease progresses, people lose more of the brain’s ability to interpret signals from the body. This could include the recognition that they need to find a bathroom, resulting in leakage.

The extent to which Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients experience this is different for every person. Some may not experience functional incontinence, while others experience it regularly.

Physical disabilities and limitations can also result in functional incontinence. For these individuals, the ability to get to a bathroom may be extremely difficult or impossible to do by themselves. Patients restricted to a bed or wheelchair can experience functional incontinence, as well as others with impaired mobility.

Some individuals don’t have any physical impairments, but movement is still slow or painful. When this is the case, getting to a bathroom may be a challenge. Older or arthritic individuals are more likely to be affected by slow or painful movement.

The best product for managing functional incontinence is the adult brief (also called adult diapers). Adult briefs have the highest level of absorbency and are the only product designed to handle both urinary and fecal incontinence. Like protective underwear, adult briefs require the right sizing to work properly. The experts on our team can help anyone find the right fit and product for their specific needs.

The good news is that some insurance policies cover adult briefs as a healthcare benefit, so it could be possible to get them at little or not cost. To learn your coverage options, complete the online incontinence product finder below or contact us today.

You or a loved one dealing with incontinence?

Let us help you get the supplies you need to feel supported, comfortable, and confident.
If you’re managing bladder or bowel incontinence — from light to heavy needs — our team at HCD will work with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to deliver a personalized product solution that fits your specific situation.

Call 866-938-3906 or share your information through our online enrollment form to get started.