Translational Research and Functional Changes in Voiding Function in Older Adults

Age-related lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunctions result from complex processes controlled by multiple genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors and account for high costs of health care. This article discusses risk factors that may play a role in age-related LUT dysfunction and presents available data comparing structural and functional changes that occur with aging in the bladder of humans and animal models. A better understanding of factors and mechanisms underlying LUT symptoms in the older population may lead to therapeutic interventions to reduce these dysfunctions.