Our home care experts share incontinence caregiving tips for helpful and discreet care.
It is not something the majority of us would feel comfortable revealing to others. In fact, the awkwardness of even talking about incontinence is often enough to keep the issue hidden. Not only that, but there’s a common misconception that it is simply a standard aspect of the aging process and needs to be quietly accepted and taken care of. Yet the fact is, 50% of all older adults struggle with urinary incontinence to some extent for a number of different reasons, many of which are treatable. This makes it very important to bring the topic to light in order to better manage or even conquer it.
How Can You Help a Loved One With Incontinence?
When providing care for a loved one, there are a number of incontinence caregiving tips that can help, beginning with a visit to the physician’s office. The physician can test for a UTI or other conditions that, once treated, can eliminate the issue. The following are a few other tips to support the person:
- Ensure hydration. Surprisingly, not drinking enough fluids can aggravate issues with incontinence. Scheduling trips to the bathroom every one to two hours, whether they feel the urge to urinate or not, is an excellent way to regulate the consumption of sufficient fluids.
- Explore mattress and furniture protectors. Absorbent padding on the bed and waterproof coverings for other furniture will make cleanup faster and easier.
- Modify the menu. A number of foods can trigger or worsen incontinence symptoms. Reduce or remove caffeinated and carbonated drinks, sugar, spicy foods, chocolate, alcohol, tomatoes, and acidic fruits from the person’s diet.
- Consider clothing choices. Think about which types of clothing allow for quick access when the person needs to use the restroom, like pants with elastic waistbands instead of those with buttons and zippers. Apparel made from materials that are easier to clean and less likely to stain is recommended as well.
- Keep your cool. It’s normal to feel frustrated by the added work of incontinence caregiving. However, remember that it’s not in the person’s control, and they very likely already feel distressed over the condition. A calm, kind response to an accident will go a long way towards alleviating stress for you both.
How Home Care Makes Incontinence Care Easier
An in-home caregiver from At-Home Care Company is a great addition to your incontinence care toolbox! All of our care providers are trained in providing respectful, discreet care for older loved ones living with incontinence, always preserving the person’s dignity. We can help with:
- Personal hygiene
- Medication reminders
- Compassionate, friendly, and understanding companionship
- And more
Contact us today at 515-292-2650 to learn more regarding how our in-home care services in Boone, Ames, Story City, and the surrounding communities can help a person you love better manage incontinence or other challenges.