Use these incontinence care tips to help you better care for loved ones with the condition.
It’s not something most people would feel comfortable sharing with others. In fact, the awkwardness of even bringing up incontinence can be enough to keep the problem concealed. Not just that, but there is a common misunderstanding that it is simply a normal part of the aging process and needs to be silently accepted and dealt with. Yet the reality is, fifty percent of all older adults struggle with incontinence to varying degrees for multiple reasons, many of which are treatable. That’s why it is important to bring the topic to light in order to better manage or even conquer it.
How Can You Help a Senior Loved One With Incontinence?
As a caregiver for an older loved one, there are a number of incontinence care tips that can help, beginning with scheduling a visit to the doctor’s office. The doctor can test for a urinary tract infection as well as other conditions that, once treated, can eradicate the issue. Below are some other tips to support the person:
- Alter the menu. Certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms of incontinence. Reduce or remove spicy foods, tomatoes, acidic fruits, sugar, chocolate, carbonated and caffeinated drinks and alcohol from the person’s diet.
- Consider clothing choices. Consider which styles of clothing support quick access to use the restroom, such as pants with elastic waistbands rather than those with buttons and zippers. Clothes made of materials that are easier to clean and less inclined to stain are important as well.
- Explore mattress and furniture protectors. Absorbent padding on the bed and waterproof covers for other pieces of furniture will make cleanup much easier.
- Make sure the person stays hydrated. Interestingly, not drinking enough fluids can exacerbate complications with incontinence. Scheduling trips to the bathroom every one or two hours, whether they have the urge to urinate or not, is a good way to regulate the increased fluid intake.
- Stay calm. It’s common to feel irritated at the additional work incontinence may cause a family caregiver. However, keep in mind it’s not in the person’s control, and they very likely already feel stressed about the condition. A calm, kind response to an accident could go a long way towards alleviating a stressful event for both of you.
How In-Home Care Can Help
An in-home care provider from Abby Senior Care is an excellent addition to your incontinence care toolbox! All of our caregivers are well trained in providing discreet, respectful care for older adults struggling with incontinence, always protecting the person’s dignity. We can assist with:
- Caring for personal hygiene
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Medication reminders
- Meal preparation that’s suitable for someone with incontinence
- Friendly, understanding, and compassionate companionship
- And more
Call us at 303-699-8840 or contact us online for additional information regarding how our home care services in Denver, Aurora, Arvada, and the surrounding communities can help a person you love better manage incontinence or any other challenges.