As a result, she is getting little sleep and sounds very tired on most days. Is this something that is generally common for that age or is it something to be concerned about ?
I got to thinking about my own experiences. It seems pretty natural to go to the bathroom if you wake up in the middle of the night. So it is hard to be certain whether you are peeing because your woke up or the need to pee is what woke you up! Either way, the sleep disruption itself is hard on us.
Definitely a good idea to have it checked out medically!
It sounds like your mom could have a urinary tract infection. A lot of times elders don't have "normal" symptoms with a UTI. But frequently feeling the need to urinate is one of the symptoms, and she may not feel it until she lays down. I suggest you take her to the doctor and tell him what's going on to see if she has a UTI. Plus, if she does have a UTI, that can make her more tired as her body is trying to fight an infection. Good luck!!!
Do you think she could learn to do Kegel's? It might help, also basic core strengthening exercises. Most likely she is very aware during waking hours so she can control it, at night she relaxes. Maybe no liquids after 6 pm?
A visit to the Dr. wouldn't hurt since this is a new development for your mom. But if she's up at night, in the dark, walking around, half asleep maybe you could put a bedside commode next to her to decrease her chance of falling.
Definitely a good idea to have it checked out medically!